Thoughts from the Kids

As the little one was counting change this week:

This one's 10 cents, this one's 1 cent, this one...this one is dirty cent.

After hearing me complain that there was a hole in my sheets:
Get some duct tape. Duct tape will fix it, momma!

When a storm rolled in this week:

It's just the sky warriors playing their drums.From my 4 year old niece:

We went to the apartment yesterday. Daddy had to pee. And to check if they had toilet paper. And the yesterday before yesterday, we paid all the money for the apartment.

Also from my niece (completely out of nowhere):
I hope my mommy's not drinking wine. She gets crazy when she has wine. I mean, crazy.

It's Time to Shell-erbate!

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are shell-ebrating their 25th anniversary of fighting evil. Can you believe it's been 25 years since they were first created? Even though they first came out in comics, I vividly remember the cartoon that aired from 1987-1997. I can still sing the theme song word for word. Is that sad to admit?

To celebrate the anniversary, Lionsgate is presenting Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Season 7 on DVD. The four disc set includes 27 episodes and is available now!
All we can say is Cowabunga, Dude! Turtle Power!

The little one loves all things ninja. What boy doesn't? So the DVDs are right up his alley. They seem to bring out his inner ninja, as he runs around shouting, turtles in a half shell, turtle power!

Small Talk Six: Making Me Sick

Over at Small Talk Six today, they want to know six things that make up sick, but we eat anyways. This week is actually really easy for me. Sad, huh?

Milkshakes:

Dippin' Dots:

McDonald's:

Nachos (without the black things though-yucky stuff):

Mocha:

Gelato:All photos from Wikipedia

Can you tell I shouldn't have milk?

Fat Flinging Fridays

Fat Flinging Fridays starts today over at Mommy23Monkeys. With summer coming, I'm dreading swimsuits and shorts. I know there's not much time left to lose those last couple of pounds I need to get rid of.

Before having a little one, I weighed much less. And it's been a long journey to where I am now. I've learned to set small, obtainable goals and to find ways to sneak in workouts. I have to make a plan that fits my lifestyle. Trying to change my lifestyle drastically has failed before, and I hate setting myself up for disaster.

So, my goals for this week are to workout every other day (aiming for 4 times during the week). And to eat healthy meals at reasonable times. (I know I tend to eat late at night, so I need to focus on that.)

Are you joining in Fat Flinging Fridays? Let me know what healthy living goals or tips you have!

Care Bears: Tell-Tale Tummies

Growing up, we loved watching Saturday morning cartoons. Now, I'm getting the chance to spend Saturday mornings watching cartoons with my little one. It's nice to sit back and relax once a week, and just watch tv together. (It's also a great time to steal some snuggles.)

A few weekends ago, I noticed CBS was playing Care Bears. My sister and I always loved Care Bears growing up, so I just had to turn it on. Turns out, my son is a fan too. We love all the different Bears' personalities, and I love that the show sends out positive messages.

This June, Care Bears: Tell-Tale Tummies will be presented on DVD from Lionsgate. It features 8 episodes that have never been released before.
We had the chance to watch Tell-Tale Tummies and loved it. The episodes are short, so we can squeeze one in when we're in between activities, but they have great messages to them. Tell-Tale Tummies helps kids understand the importance of being honest and how to avoid exaggerating things.

Little man gives it two-thumbs up.

Mommy Confessions

I confess that I usually spend all day in my pajamas. Right before hubby comes home, I pull on a pair of jeans and throw on a little makeup. That way I never have to hear, "didn't you even get out of your pjs today?"

Seriously, if they made jeans a little more comfy, I'd be happy to wear them all day long. But for now, I'll hold on to my obsession for lounge pants and pure comfort.

Have something you need to confess? Head over to Life Starring Ellie and Eve.

Because Some People Don't have to Work

Yall may remember that I hate family dinners.

Now, I love my family. I love spending time with them, and see them all at least once a week.

But add the extended family into the picture, throw in a holiday, and things get miserable. People are cranky, little one's get restless, and the whole experience exhausts me. Every time.

Memorial Day was no different. Oh no, my family doesn't reserve catty comments for major holidays.

So what was it this time?

Well, I guess some people don't have to work.

Thanks, grandma. The problem with her condescending comment is that I do work part-time. And when she asks, I clean her house to help her out. But yes, the other days of the week, I spend my time sitting at home doing absolutely nothing. I never clean the house, I never cook dinner, I never do laundry, I never take care of my kid. I do nothing.

*And I promise, last rant of the week.

I've been cranky

Saying I've been cranky this week is probably an understatement. I've been the epitome of a bad mood. Some people may even use the "b word."

I can't explain it, but at least I acknowledge it. I've given everyone a fair warning around here, especially hubby, that he's better off just staying out of my way. You can't say I'm not honest.

And yet, he feels the need to irritate me.

He takes food off my plate. I hate people eating my food, my 4 year old is about the only one I share with. I'm weird about food, and despise people sticking their germy fingers onto my plate. I considered stabbing him with a fork.

He complains that he's the only one who takes the trash out. Let me clarify this for him, he's the only one who drags the dumpster to the curb. I take it out of the kitchen in the first place. Oh, and, I'm the only one who does the dishes, vacuums, does laundry, and cleans in general. I'm so sorry walking out to the curb is so difficult.

He comments that he's so tired. Last time I checked, he's not the one getting up with someone who can't sleep at 2 am, and 3 am, and 4 am. And he's not the one getting up in the morning. Yep, last I checked, he was the one who's been able to sleep in every morning for the last two weeks.

So yes, I'm cranky this week. It's just the way it is. Maybe next week he'll have a better chance.

Wordless Wednesday: This Week's Adventure

Super Natural Home Book Review

Like any mom out there, I worry about my little one's health. I worry about what he could get into, what he's eating, what could make him sick. Basically, I worry about everything. I want my child to grow up healthy, but I know there a lot of things out there that can make him (or me) sick.

Recently, I had the chance to read Super Natural Home by Beth Greer. The book focuses on ways to "improve your health, home, and planet."

About the book

Greer was inspired to write Super Natural Home after a medical crisis inspired her to reconsider her lifestyle. While she thought she was living green, she realized there were many other changes that could benefit her life and health. The book is meant to encourage readers to look into their own lives and see how they could improve their personal choices, allowing them a healthier, cleaner lifestyle.

About the author

Greer is an award-winning journalist and holistic health advocate. She is the former president and co-owner of The Learning Annex, an alternative adult education company, and she is the founder of Super Natural Mom.

What I thought

Super Natural Home is easy to understand and filled with tips anyone can follow. Not only does Greer offer advice and ideas, she offers specific ways to reach your goals. Throughout the book, she also offers additional resources and companies that sell truly organic products. For someone looking to go organic, Greer offers an expansive list of products that fit the bill.

The practicality of the ideas, allows the book to be utilized by anyone. I would consider this book a valuable resource for anyone who wants a cleaner planet, home, and lifestyle. As a mom, finding ways to keep my little one protected from toxins is very important, and Super Natural Home is great tool to help me do just that.

My Dad

I got a call that my dad was in the hospital this morning.

Growing up, my dad was always the strong one. He was never sick. He never got hurt.

But in the last year, he's been in the hospital more than ever before. Back in winter, he had heart surgery. And now they think his appendix burst, and they are removing it this morning.
All weekend long, he complained that his side hurt. But, he continued to work on the farm, take care of the animals, and play with the kiddos. He could barely stand without doubling over, but he kept moving. This morning, the pain became unbearable.

We'll take any prayers or good thoughts that you can send our way. Because of the blood thinners, and other meds he's on, surgery has it's complication. Please keep him in your prayers.

Kiss My Face Winner

And the winner of the Kiss my Face Kid's collection is...

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

4

Timestamp: 2009-05-26 14:19:55 UTC

Congrats to valerie2350!

I will be contacting you shortly, and you'll have 48 hours to respond.
Thanks to everyone who entered!

Be on the lookout for another great giveaway in the next day or two!

Take A Moment to Remember

Taken at the WWII Memorial

Taken at the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial

Take a moment to stop today and think of those who fight for our country, and those that have fought before them. And say a word of thanks.

Hope everyone has a safe Memorial Day!

Potato Corn Salad

Every Memorial Day we have a huge cookout with all my family. Lots of little kids running around, lots of adults chatting, and lots of good food.

This year I decided to try a new recipe:

Potato and Corn Salad
1.5lbs small red potatoes
2 cups cooked corn, cut from the cob
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/2 cup diced celery
1/3 cup vegetable oil
3 Tbs cider vinegar
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp chopped fresh thyme
1 Tbs chopped parsley

1. Place potatoes in cold water, bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer until just cooked (about 15 minutes). Drain and cute potatoes into quarters.

2. In a large container combine all other ingredients except parsley. Pour over salad and stir to coat well. Add parsley and stir again.

Hopefully it will turn out yummy this afternoon.

What's your favorite picnic food?

My Little Country Boy

We live in the middle of nowhere. Most of the area is covered in cornfields or farmland. Meaning there's a lot of privacy.

So, when we're working in the garden or too far from the house to run to the bathroom, it's okay for my 4 year old to use a bush. It's always been that way. As long as he can find an area out of the way, he's free to go on his own.

Now, I mentioned on Friday that we were off to DC for the day. You can see where this story is headed right?

We went to the memorials first, which have a few ponds throughout the area. We stopped at one, and the little one continued to walk with grandma while I took a few photos.
Within seconds I heard my mom gasped and turned to catch an eye full of a little butt cheek. Luckily, she caught him before he "used the bushes," and even more luck, no one else was nearby! I wasn't sure if I should laugh or cry.

As I explained the situation to him, and stressed that we can't drop our drawers in public, he responded with, "Awkward, very awkward." Ugh.

Small Talk Six: Ocean

Over at Small Talk Six, today's topic is the ocean. They want to hear 6 things we love or hate about it. To be honest, I can count the number of times I've been to the ocean on one hand. So, this week is a tough one for me.

1. I love the sound. It' so relaxing: waves crashing, birds squawking, the wind blowing.
2. I love laying on the beach. A nice secluded beach, a good book, and a cold drink. Perfect.
3. Seashells, we love collecting them. Maybe it's because it's something we can't do at home, but searching for seashells is so exciting.
4. I hate not seeing the bottom. I'm terrified of what could be lurking down there!
5. Sand drives me crazy too. It gets in everything: the car, clothes, my purse, and usually my eyes too!
6. The beachgoers tend to gross me out. Swimsuits are meant to cover certain areas, Speedos are not appropriate for any man, let alone a 300 lb one. And don't get me started on top-optional beaches. Yuck!

Off on an Adventure

Every year we tag along to DC with my mom.

It's a great chance to let the little one explore places beyond our backyard.

We get to see the memorials.

We get to visit the critters in the zoo.
Little man's favorite part, of course.

But, it is a very long ride.
And this year, I think the car seat isn't an option. So I'll have to attempt to keep him still for 4 hours or more. Yikes!

What are your favorite places to visit over the summer?

To be honest

I miss being pregnant.
I miss feeling the kicks.
I miss having a baby in the house.
I'll even go as far to say, I miss the diapers and bottles, and everything that goes along with the baby stage.They grow way too fast.
And it seems like overnight they go from baby to boy.

Wordless Wednesday: Exploring

Happy Hopping!

Recently MomDot held a link-a-thon. So, if you're on the search for a few new blogs to check out. Here's over 330 to choose from. I'm going to do my best to work my way through the list, though it may take awhile.

1. Lori@Not Always Charming

2. Fairy Blog Mother

3. Crazy Adventures in Parenting

4. Engineer a Debt Free Life

5. Sweet ‘n’ Sassy Girls

6. Good Golly Miss Blondie

7. SavvySuzie

8. For The Love of Baby!

9. Tammy@lovemy2dogs

10. Blessings Abound

11. Coupons, Deals and More

12. Hairstyles For Girls

13. Stacie @ The Divine Miss Mommy

14. A latte in the morning

15. KiddiesCorner Deals

16. 3 Kids and Us | Mom Blog

17. The Ohana Mama

18. Coupon Queens of Laurel Run

19. Today’s Journey

20. Eve @ Confessions of a Housewife

21. My Charmed Life

22. Laurie@DoubleBugs

23. Lisa @ Final Score boys3 girls2

24. New Sue Review

25. Suzanne Calling

26. Just For Me…and You

27. Time Slides By

28. Babes and Kids

29. Declutter a Little Each Day

30. Grocery Savings for Real Families

31. Life Starring Ellie and Eve

32. So Cute Crafts

33. Brea’s Mommy

34. Are Muffins Just Ugly Cupcakes

35. It’s A Beauty Filled Life

36. The crazy suburban mom

37. Donna’s World

38. Momma’s Gone Over the Wall

39. Mommy’s Quiet Time

40. Joyce (Saving My Cents)

41. My Trendy Tykes

42. The Not-So-Blog

43. Confessions From HouseholdSix

44. SiPPyCuPSand FiNGerPriNTS

45. Jennifer@CouponMommie

46. Shasta @ Crackers&Chaos

47. Giftfully Simple

48. Just For Fun

49. Digital Mommy

50. Me And Craig

51. Parenting Princesses

52. Shan@Last Shreds Of Sanity

53. Inside My Head

54. Petit

55. My Love Lucy

58. Blog 4 Mom

59. 3 Garnets & 2 Sapphires

60. Jolly Mom

61. My Life My Journey

62. Maman And Gourmand

63. Jess - Life @ 30

64. The POSHpreneur

65. A Blog of Goodies

66. Christy aka The Write Gal

67. LookWhatMomFound

68. Peanut Butter & Smelly’s Dad

69. Lucy

70. Angry Julie Monday

71. The Mogul Mom Blog

72. Angela

73. Deal-ectible Mommies

74. Christy’s Creations

75. Lisa

76. Courtney@Booksnboys

77. Wannabe Supermom

78. Thre Craft Momma

79. Internet Toddler

80. Jennifer@Life is a Sandcastle

81. Kristen of La Dolce Vita

82. Cranberry Fries

83. Toni @ The Mud Bug

84. The Mom Buzz

85. Tricia @Nightowl Mama

86. Frugal Mommy of 2 Girls

87. Mommy Cracked

88. EclecticBird

89. Mama Mentor

90. Moomettesgram’s Musings

91. Moomette’s Magnificents Reviews

92. Moomettesgram’s Favorite Recipes

93. Diaries of a Domestic Goddess

94. Go Graham Go!

95. NerdFamily Things

96. NerdFamily Blog

97. Making Money Keeping Money

98. NerdFamily Food

99. Flying Giggles & Lollipops

100. Gena @ Morris Bunch

101. Crystal @ Simply Being Mommy

102. A Kindred Spirit’s Thoughts

103. Two Of A Kind, Working On A Full House

105. Free Sample Freak

106. What Mommies Need

107. Mom of 2 Boys, Wife of 1

108. icefairy’s Treasure Chest

109. Cheaper Than Therapy

110. Therapeutic Reviews & Giveaways

111. Lily Bean Designs

112. Dirty Diaper Laundry

113. Dance Momma

114. JamericanSpice

115. Mombalance

116. A Pocket Full Of Buttons

117. Ordinary and Awesome

118. Reviews and Giveaways

119. Subjective Beauty

120. Tales From A Shopaholic Mommy

121. Mommiemayhem

122. IE Mommy

123. Nikki @ Blasian Baby Notes

124. Amber Woodward

125. Grammy Janet’s Place

126. Outnumbered 3 to 1

127. ShimmerMeBlue

128. Dev’s Favorite Giveaways

129. Joyful Money Saving

130. 1stopmom

131. A Modern Mama

132. PourSomeSugarOnMe

133. Fancast

134. Lollipop Baby

135. Lola & Ben

136. idoby2celebrants

137. Sue Jackson

138. Cackleberry Kids

139. Gifts By The Stars

140. Jemma

141. Handmade Kids

142. Ollie Rose

143. Babasfarmlife

144. Banquet Manager

145. Monkey’s Momma

146. This Mom Can Shop

147. EcoLabel Fundraising

148. Divine Chaos

151. Elizabeth @ Suzy Q Homemaker

152. marla mandell bread (5/17)

154. Belly Bumps to Baby Hugs

156. ThenComes Baby

157. Homemade Gourmet

158. Fresh Pure and Simple

159. MomDot Mom Blogs

160. MomDot Mom Reviews

161. Bloggers Give Charity

162. Organic Baby Resource

163. Potamus Prefers

164. The Army Wife

165. Through Hazel Eyes

166. Frugal Rhode Island Mama

167. Just Jingle

168. And Twins make 5!

169. Frugal Plus

170. Christie

171. What Happened To My House?

172. Miracles on Mama Street

173. Heck Of A Bunch

174. Blog Designs by Susan

175. mommy23monkeys

176. Hanna

177. Got Kids Need Valium

178. Womb At The INNSANE

179. Katie & Kimble Blog

180. Kim @ Adventures SAHM

181. The Frugalicious Mommy

182. Penny Pinching Diva

183. Another day. Another thought or two

184. Beauty4Moms

185. Nikki @evilflu.com

186. Little Miss Julia

187. Mrs Zeee

189. Frazzle Dazzle SuperMom

190. Florida Mealtime Savers

191. Inspiration Station

192. Mommy’s Kitchen

193. Saving with MamaNordy

194. Saving SAHM Sanity

195. A Little Piece Of Perfect

196. Nodin’s Nest

197. Lil Miss Eco

198. Laryn Strickland

199. HeatherMama

200. The Gerber Babies Blog

201. WhateverSuccess

202. Women Who Win

203. Kat @ The Burb Blog

204. Happy Healthy Families

205. Sweeps4Bloggers

206. dramaqueensmum

207. The Mom Trap

208. Multitasking Mama

209. Mama Michies Musings

210. Little People Wealth

211. Belly Beyond

212. Kim Kihega

213. Mom Fuse

214. Juanita

215. Adopt a Do

216. On the Refriderator Door

218. Little Diva

219. My Household Junk

220. I’m Here….Really

221. Brittany@The Greer 5

222. mary

223. Nicole @ Nicole’s Nickels

224. Lori Newman

225. Kris @ NSQSA

226. Debb

227. Shawn Ann’s World

228. Peke Moe -NZ made baby sleep sacks

229. A Simple Kinda LIfe

230. Sweet Serendipity

231. Bouncing Off The Walls

232. Jane Loedding

235. Msbuildingupdabenjamins

236. Musings from Me

238. The Adventures of Miss V

239. Mudd Kids

240. Mom Most Traveled family travel

241. Relishing the Dirt

242. Good, True and Beautiful

243. Deb @ Frugal Living and Having Fun

244. The Last Blog on Earth

245. A Wrestling Addicted Mommy

246. Rae

247. kimert@diaries of a coach’s wife

248. Dore’s Diaries

249. Blog by Donna

250. Lisette

251. Pillaging With Buffie

252. Mom of Faith

253. GODSOWN

254. flutterbyechronicles

255. shelley

256. Life In A House Of Blue

257. kristen

258. Alex the Fey Thriller Series

259. MamaCheaps!

260. Donalacasa

261. A Jewish Journey

262. Anissa @ Our Chaotic Life

263. BethinNC

264. Stuttering Shell

265. Don’t Blink

266. Life is Sweet

267. Lisa

268. Sue@Stay At Home Mom

269. m.e (cathie)

270. Run DMT

271. Princess Ratbag

272. Michelle G

273. CF Mama @ Nathan’s Fight

274. Moody Mama Says

275. Laurie Ann

276. Cooking During Stolen Moments

277. A Simple Walk

278. Vanessa

279. middleagedmom

280. Ramblings Of A Wannabe Writer

281. Oh My Baby

282. Fordcast Sunny

283. Lisa Miller

284. Stacie @ The Divine Miss Mommy

285. Bibs & Cribs {very cute stuff}

286. My Lil’ Budget Book

287. Misadventures in Baby Raising

288. My Mommy Said

290. Milk and Honey Mommy

291. Amy O’Neal

292. Parenting Children

293. A Girl And Her Life

294. MarieLynn Boutique Blog

295. Born Fabulous Boutique Blog

296. The Pitter Patter Boutique

297. Stephanie Deese

298. Brea’s Baby Boutique Blog

299. digiscrapping.net - Heather Manning

300. Kids Activities Blog

301. Two Little Whales Cloth Diapers & More

302. 3 boys & a dog

303. Karen ~Georgia Angel

304. JenniferB @ my not so hurried life

305. Shannon Blogs Here

306. A Virtuous Woman

307. Secrets of a Southern Kitchen

308. Dreamer

309. Lollipop Book Club

310. Mommie Daze Virtual Baby Shower

312. MomSaves4U

313. Barely Domestic Mama

314. Emilie @ Baby Loving Mama

315. Professional Family Manager

317. Coaching The Family

318. Frugal Creativity

319. Easy Being Green

320. Dandelion Bubbles

321. Shelly aka The Attic Girl

322. Foxtoybox-Discovery Toys

323. Ashley @ Beauty4Moms

324. Colleen - Mommy Always Wins

325. Playground for Parents

326. World of Discovery

327. Kati @ Country Girl City Life

329. A Little Bit Nutty

330. Mahayla’s Mommy

332. If I Could Escape . . .

333. The Shopping Mama

Happy blog hopping!

I've Got Dots

Momma, your forehead looks so much better. I almost can't see that huge dot.

That's what I was greeted with after putting my make up on today. Thanks, buddy.

And for those of you not up on the lingo of 4 year olds, dots can also be described as a "big-honking zit the size of a small country."

Guess I may need a little extra makeup today.

YouCanMakeThis.com Winners

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

12 19 

Timestamp: 2009-05-19 04:21:13 UTC

carolyn said...

I would make a pillow for my grandson Parker. Thanks for the giveaway.

Paula said...

I would love to win because of my eight grandkids only one of them has a name that is easy to find...their names are Katie, Kelsi, Darian, Harley, Piper, Willow, and Tucker....do you see what I mean. I can be contacted at ...

Congrats ladies! You both have won the Personalized Pillow e-book from YouCanMakeThis.com.

I will be contacting you shortly. Thank to all those who entered!

A Few Years

I used to worry only about myself. I could go anywhere I wanted, anytime I wanted. I could go out and buy a new pair of jeans every week and throw money away on a cup of Starbucks each morning. I could go to Sheetz for a snack at 2 am. For that matter, I could stay up until 2 am and sleep the next day away if I wanted to.

I used to wish for things like a new car and new clothes. I used to dream about being out in the world, doing big things, doing my own thing.

Then I became a momma. Instead of new jeans, I bought diapers. Instead of my coveted coffee, formula. And somewhere along the line I learned to like real coffee, coffee straight from my own Mr Coffee.

Instead of 2 am snacks, I was up at 2 am mixing a bottle. And sleeping in the next morning was out of the question. In fact, sleeping at all seemed questionable.

Now, I wish that I could use the bathroom in peace. Let's be perfectly honest, I wish I could sit down to pee and not land in a puddle. Now, I dream about showing my little one new things, helping him to explore the world, and seeing him grow.

It's funny how a few years makes a world of difference. A few years ago, I never would have imagined my life turning out this way, but I wouldn't change it for anything.

Requests from the Tent

Sometimes you just need to get away. Even if you are 4. And even if it's just behind the flaps of a tent.

But, it's still nice to know that momma is right outside. While you're saving animals and calling people on your imaginary phone, she's just a few steps away. Just close enough to get all the snacks, drinks, and "supplies" for the expedition.

Ahh, the joys of being a momma animal rescuer's assistant.

So Random This Week

It's seems that whether it's here or in the house, I really can't put two coherent thoughts together this week. I bounce from one thing to another. Right now, the dishes are half done, half the floors have been cleaned, and laundry is just waiting to get put away. I just lose interest part way through everything. (Well, seriously, who likes to clean anyways?)

Sunday afternoons are supposed to be my relax time. Hubby always wonders why I'm so tired Sunday nights.

Here's why:
I get up at 5 am to go to work, after going to bed at 11, and getting up with the little one twice during the night. I get off work at 3, stop at the store to get groceries or odds and ends, pick up the little one if he's over at grandma's, then come home.

But even after I'm home, the groceries need put away, the dishes in the sink are piling up from the day, and I need to figure out what the schedule looks like for the week.

By the time I hit the couch, my feet hurt and I'm beyond exhausted. And the last thing I want to hear is, "why are you so tired?" Hearing that just makes me want to smack somebody.

So, if my I'm cranky or scarce on Sundays, that's why. Just pure exhaustion.

Small Talk Six: Come on People

Over at MomDot, today's Small Talk Six is all about advice. It seems that we give it and get it every day. But, they want to know: What are 6 pieces of advice that you think are obvious, but some people just need to hear?

1. When your child is sick, don't ask me to babysit, don't set up a playdate, and don't bring them to McD's so they can sneeze all over my food from the next booth over. Do your best to keep germs to yourself.
2. It's not funny to hear a 3 year old cuss. It's pretty sad, even sadder when a parent sits there and laughs about it. Teach your kid that there are certain words we just don't say, and stop using those words in front of them.
3. Babies who are barely eating solid food should not be allowed to drink your Dew or taste your coffee. Caffeine and babies are not a good combination.
4. Clothes are meant to cover your body, not squeeze so tight I can see ever nook and cranny of your rolls. Buy a size that fits, and take full advantage of that thing called a mirror.
5. Letting your kids watch scary shows is not the brightest idea ever. Things like Sasquatch and killer fish are scary. The nightmares that follow will be payback.
6. And finally, don't eat yellow snow. Common sense, right?

Sasquatch

Someone thought it would be a good idea to let the 4 year old watch Monster Quest.

Let's see, a show about Sasquatch, giant groupers, and "killer fish." Hmm... Who thinks letting a 4 year old, with an active imagination, watch this is a good idea? Did anyone raise their hands?

Every day since, I get asked, "Do you think Sasquatch really exists? But someone caught him on tape fishing in a river. They saw him on Cougar Island, and he can really swim."

A fear of monsters seems to be pretty common in kids my son's age. It's no wonder. They star in tons of books and movies, and people with a lapse in judgment let them watch shows beyond their comprehension.

So how do we deal with these fears?

• In our house, we talk about the fears. I don't have all the answers, but I know how to listen. It seems to make my son feel better to talk about his concerns.
• We use our imagination to lessen the fears. We imagine good monsters instead of mean ones (Clyde Monster is a great book) and we use monster spray (water in a spray bottle) to keep away any monsters.
• We use knowledge. We research things that scare us and find out the facts, instead of worrying about what could be.

But, it's tough to help kids deal with their fears. I do know one thing: The someone who thought Monster Quest was a great idea is going to be in charge of bedtime for the next 2 weeks.

How do you help your kids deal with their fears?

Endangered Species Day with Kiss My Face & a Giveaway

Today is National Endangered Species Day, and Kiss My Face is ready to celebrate. You can join in the fun by exploring the Kids Safari. There are facts about endangered species, coloring pages, games, and videos.

Kiss My Face is also celebrating the launch of its collection for kids. The line includes bubble wash, detangler, foaming hand wash, shampoo, and body wash, as well as several other products. The kid's collection features various endangered species, and has facts about the animals on the packaging. (Chi Chi is by far my favorite!)Kiss My Face Kids products are free of artificial colors, parabens, and fragrances. Instead, they offer natural ingredients like Tea Tree Oil to kill germs and Organic Green Tea Extract to protect against the sun.

Want to win?

To get the celebration started, Kiss My Face is offering a chance for you to win. One very lucky reader will receive a set of products from the kid's collection.

To enter: Visit Kiss My Face and tell me what your favorite product for kids is.
(Please include a way to contact you)

Want extra entries?

• Check out the Kids Safari and let me know which animal from the group is your favorite.
• Follow me on Blogger
• Grab my button
• Add me to your blog roll
• Follow me on Twitter (Leave your username)
• Tweet this giveaway (Leave link)

Please leave 1 extra comment for each thing you do!

Contest will end May 25 at 11:59 pm EST. Winner will be posted and emailed and must respond within 48 hours. Open to US only.

I'm in a random mood.

*Hubby went back to work as of Tuesday. The Gibbon and I have finally gotten back on schedule for the first time in 5 months. In the first hour alone, I had the dishes done, laundry in, and the kitchen & dining room floors swept and mopped. That's more that got done than in the 142 days hubby's been home, or at least it feels like it.

I've never been more excited to have a schedule in my life.

*I found this while cleaning:

*The crayfish is no longer. We came down one morning to see only a claw left behind. Two days later the catfish died. Maybe his last meal did him in?

*The Gibbon was hosting an imaginary bbq tonight, with cupcakes for dessert. He got 40, I got 40, and daddy got 2. Why? Because Daddy's getting fat. My fingers are crossed that our talk on why calling people fat isn't nice actually sunk in. Please, oh please, don't let him repeat that again!

*Oh, and we had one other loss in the house. Those exciting sprouts coming up just a few weeks ago...I forgot them. I'm sure taught the little one the importance of caring for other things. You don't care for them, they die. A sweet sentiment to teach my kid, right? I try.

We're taking much better care of our sunflowers though. Live and learn, right?

Wordless Wednesday: Faves of the Week

20 Easy Ways to Help Save the Earth Book Review

Talk of "being green" or "going green" seems to be at an all time high. Everyone is talking about what they can do to better the Earth. Even my 4 year old, has been talking about ways to save the Earth the last few weeks. But, it can be tough to help someone so young understand just how they can help.

20 Easy Ways to Help Save the Earth, written by Pedro Rita, does just that. It puts being green into words that kids can understand. It shows the impact of being environmentally friendly, as well as what happens when people don't take care of our environment.
Before I got a chance to sit down and read the book with my son, he had started looking through it himself. From the pictures, he explained to me what was happening, and which pictures made "the Earth happy."

20 Easy Ways to Help Save the Earth is a great teaching tool. It encourages kids (and parents) to be Earth friendly through simple tasks, such as:

• Recycling
• Planting flowers or trees
  
• Turning off lights, tv, or other utilities when not in use

In addition to writing, Pedro Rita has coached various levels of soccer and established the Green Earth Club, to develop conservation programs created by kids. His other books include A Boy and His Team and A Great Soccer Tournament.

You can also check out the 20 Easy Ways to Save the Earth book trailer to find out more.

Animal Atlas Review

I've mentioned in the past that my little one wants to be a zoologist one day. He wants to care for animals, study them, and play with the babies. But, he says, a zoologist doesn't have to "clean the poo" like zookeepers. So needless to say, we spend a lot of times learning more about critters, whether it's through books, zoos, museums, or DVDs.

Recently, we had the opportunity to review Animal Atlas: Animals and Us. Animal Atlas is an educational DVD series geared towards kids. It's full of interesting facts about various creatures, as well as some amazing footage.
Animals and Us contains three episodes: Who Needs Our Help, Who's at the Aquarium, and Who's at the Zoo. Our favorite was Who's at the Aquarium. My 4 year old was mesmerized by the sea life, and especially loved learning about sharks. (Of course his favorite was the sharks, he's all boy.)

I felt the DVD was geared towards a slightly older age range, although my little one may disagree. Because my son is so absorbed in learning about animals, he had heard many of the terms before. But, I thought the narrator used complicated terms, which a lot of little kids may not understand.

Overall, we really enjoyed watching the DVD together, and are looking forward to checking out other DVDs in the series. You can find Animals and Us at Toys R Us, Amazon, or NCircle Entertainment.

Under Attack

He thought he was so tough with a water balloon...

Until it came flying back...

Momma is Such a Liar

No, honey, I don't know what happened to the guitar Mimi sent you. (Who sends a 4 year old a guitar?)

I have no idea who ate the last brownie.

Sorry, honey, I don't have any batteries for your loud obnoxious favorite toy.

I bet daddy would love to look at your (400 page) animal book with you (for the 3rd time today).

Sorry, sweetie, I don't know your friends phone number to invite them over today.

I think the park is closed today.

Yes, Momma is such a liar.

Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Mother's Day! Hope it's filled with fun, smiles, and lots of hugs! Some chocolate or a bubble bath would be nice too.

Alien Kitty

Hubby thinks this kitten is the cutest thing ever. I think it resembles an alien baby. He's ready to bring it home, if I would let him.

I just wonder how he forgets about the last kitten experience so quickly. (When I had the joy of explaining to a 4 year old that the kitten had to go back to the farm, because it was completely insane.) I truly think he wants to turn our house into a zoo.

YouCanMakeThis Giveaway

My son loves to see his name on things. However, because his name is unique, it can be tough to find things pre-printed with it. Instead, we have to get things personalized, or do it ourselves.

I recently had the opportunity to review the Personalized Name Pillow e-book from YouCanMakeThis.com. The site offers easy to understand instructions on how to create a wide range of products, from clothes and stuffed animals, to photography projects, handbags, and headbands.
My sewing skills are limited (aka almost non-existent), and I found the instructions easy to follow. They are directed towards readers of all skill levels, so each step is explained in detail. And the final product is very cute. What child wouldn't love seeing their name on their pillow at night?

Would you love to win a copy of the e-book from YouCanMakeThis.com? Two lucky readers will get the chance.

To enter: Leave a comment with who you would be making a pillow for. (Please include a way to contact you)

Want extra entries?
Follow me on Blogger
Grab my button
Add me to your blog roll
Follow me on Twitter (Leave your username)
Tweet this giveaway (Leave link)

Please leave 1 extra comment for each thing you do!

Contest will end May 18 at 11:59 pm. Winners will be posted and emailed.

Small Talk Six: My Momma

Small Talk Six is all about momma's this week. They want to know 6 ways you are like or unlike your mom.

Our Similarities:
#1. Looks: Everyone who knows my mom would recognize me as her daughter. I constantly get asked if I'm her daughter, or people say I just have to be one of her girls.

#2. Personality: We both are the quiet type until something or someone gets us riled up. Then we always have a comeback for just about any situation.

#3. Interests: My mom and I share so many of the same interests. From baking to reading to watching the same tv shows. We love the same music too.

#4. Life in general: We both had kids and were married by 18, and we both went back to college and graduated. It seems that I'm following in her shoes, and I don't see that as a bad thing at all.

Our Differences:
#5. Open door policy: This is one point where we are totally different. She would welcome anyone at anytime. But, if you're coming to my house, you better call first and warn me, or I might just leave you standing on the porch.

#6. Cooking: My mom is a great cook. She is the only one who can make a meatloaf I actually enjoy. I burn grilled cheese and mess up frozen pizza. This is why hubby does the cooking.

Are you and your mom alike or complete opposites?