Mama to a Sweet Thing

2011-10-25T10:34:00.001-07:00

I'm Back!!

2011-06-25T13:08:00.000-07:00

So it has been about 4 months since I last wrote and was actually an active blogger. But, I have a good reason, I think! I am PREGNANT!! While that is all well and good, the reason I stopped blogging was because of the horrendous morning sickness I had, mixed with nursing my first born and trying to keep her occupied all while sitting on the couch and multiple sprints to the toilet. Now that I'm all through with the toilet runs and I am actually able to do something productive I feel like I can get back into the swing of blogging!
With all of that being said, I can give you the fun pregnancy details and maybe even some pictures!
I am 19 weeks along now, due November 17th and we are not finding out the gender this time! I am super excited for the surprise at birth!
Fact: I was due with Sweet Thing on November 18th 2009, She and the new babe will pretty much be 2 years apart exactly!

18 weeks

I'm also super excited to cloth diaper this babe from the very start, I've already got a Bummis Newborn Pack and a few Dri-Line semi-fitteds and more Bummis covers.
Are you pregnant? Are you planning to use cloth with your newborn? Tell me what you have in your stash.

A Mother's Worst Day-Mare

2011-02-25T09:41:00.000-08:00

Do you ever see your kid do something that could potentially be dangerous and then have these crazy visions of it turning really bad?

Say, your kid puts their finger by the hinges on an open door and all of a sudden you have this thought of the door being slammed closed by the wind, shrill screams, an amputated pinky finger laying on the floor. A panicked you calling 911. Rushing to the freezer to put that tiny little finger on ice.

I have these thoughts, oh about ten times a day.

The smoke alarms go off in the middle of the night and for the first time your kid is actually sleeping in their own bed in their own room down the hall, you sprint down the hall only to find a blazing fire is encasing your precious child's room.

These thoughts are absolutely disturbing yet I can't stop myself from having them. I'm not usually one to worry, in fact I am quite the opposite. I 'go with the flow' and I don't take things too seriously. For some reason these thoughts come to me often, even though I know they would be so unlikely. Although they do happen for some people, it's not something you should think about multiple times every day.

My house is relatively safe for a 15 month old. She can't get into the cupboard under the sink where all the cleaning supplies is, she can't stick her fingers in the outlets. There is only so much you can 'baby proof', and make things safe while still having a functional living space. I think it is also important NOT to baby proof too much, otherwise you can't teach your child boundaries and what's ok and not ok to touch or play with.

I try not to take my 'day-mares' too serious because I know they are so wild and most of them are very unlikely to happen. Do age appropriate toys have a tendency to impale a child if they fall near it?

Anyone else in the same boat? What has been your wildest day-mare about your child's safety?

Baby Sign Language FAIL

2011-02-24T14:09:00.000-08:00

That's right, we totally bombed. I talked about starting baby sign language here about 8 months ago. I found it hard to learn BSL myself let alone remember to use it with Sweet Thing all the time. If I worked harder at it(and owned a BSL book, instead of borrowing from the library) it might become second nature. But I knew that this wasn't a life or death situation and I wasn't going to waste my time doing something I didn't like at the time.

I'm happy to report at 15 months old she has a booming vocabulary of over 35 words. She is very capable of communicating with the people around her. She understands so much more than she can say. I am pleased with the way she is communicating, even if she can't sign 150 words by now.

Every baby is different and develops at their own pace and though my daughter is thriving without it I wish I could see how she would have developed with the added bonus of knowing signs. There are still times when I wish I had followed through with it because she can get very frustrated when we can't quite figure out what she wants, but that subsides quickly once I realize the capable being she is.

All in all, she is learning new things everyday and I am constantly amazed at this little human we've created.

I know when I stopped trying to use baby sign language I felt like a...wait for it...a failure. I felt bad because I couldn't teach my daughter a second language. It's another one of those things that people will judge you about. Just like breast vs. bottle, just like circumcision vs. intact. Although it might not be quite as controversial, un-healthy or life-altering, mothers will judge you no matter what you do, which is really sad. Do what you feel is necessary, and don't pressure yourself to do sign language. It's just one more thing we shouldn't need worry about. Do 12 extra IQ points really make that much of a difference anyway? Ok, ok, maybe they do to some, but it's not going to change the love I have for my child. I'll always think she is the smartest kid in the world! You know, cause I'm biased and all!

Did anyone else try BSL and fail miserably? Or did it go well? Tell me about it!

Baggino Learner's Bibs on Hippo Bargains

2011-02-22T10:46:00.000-08:00

I just want to let you all know that Hippo Bargains has the BEST bibs ever on their site for HALF OFF!

Baggino Learner's Bibs how I love thee!

I bought 2 of these bibs a couple months ago because all the regular bibs weren't cutting it. I wanted to let my daughter feed herself but I just felt it was a huge hassle because I would either have to strip her down before putting her in her chair or after the meal when her clothes would be covered in lunch. So I saw these bibs on Hippo Bargains and decided to try them out, I got them just before my trip to see my parents and was so excited to use them. As soon as we got there we sat Sweet Thing in her chair and gave her a bowl of yogurt, and boy oh boy was she happy! She went to town on that yogurt and I don't think half of it even went near her mouth. I took that bib off and my baby was CLEAN!! Not a spot on her clothes! I was ecstatic! Amazing what us mommy's can get excited about right? First diapers, now bibs. We're a crazy bunch!
She has been eating all her meals herself since then and she is also an awesome eater now, she is great with a spoon and barely makes much of a mess on herself anymore. I contribute that to letting her do it on her own. It's also the lazy mom way, and I am definitely a lazy mom!

I also love the Velcro neck closure, it is VERY strong so the little one can't take it off themselves.

So I just have to say if you are in the market for a clean, happy, self-fed baby, I HIGHLY recommend Baggino Learner's Bibs. For about $8 per bib (that is factoring in the shipping charges) from Hippo Bargains today. I think they are definitely worth it. I just got 6 more bibs and I have 2 already!

I did not get any compensation for this post, this is a sincere "I love this product" post written by me!

Be My Valentine

2011-02-14T14:27:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day to all!

Sweet Thing's First Valentines Day, Last Year. ♥

Winner

2011-02-13T12:31:00.000-08:00

The Winner of the $50 gift pack of BabyLeg products is...

Toni G

'Like' Mother of a Deal on Facebook

Congratulations Toni!

Please contact me within 72 hours to confirm.

tenenda @ hotmail.com

If I don't hear a response within that time I will have to draw for a new winner.

Winner

2011-02-13T08:05:00.000-08:00

The lucky winner of a Dinner is Ready Cook Book and Software Set by 30 Meals in One Day is...

Breanna P-L

Follow Mama to a Sweet Thing on Facebook

Congratulations Breanna! I hope you enjoy this system as much as I do!

Please contact me within 72 hours to confirm.
tenenda @ hotmail.com
If I don't hear a response within that time I will have to draw for a new winner.

3 Years Ago Today - We Miss You

2011-02-09T13:02:00.000-08:00

Three years ago today my Grampa passed away.
I sure do miss him.
I feel regret and sadness in not seeing him one last time before he passed. He was in the hospital in the town I grew up in, where all my family lives. I lived an hour away with my boyfriend(now Sweet Husband). We were planning on going to visit him this day three years ago, instead inside of me was saying 'no, you don't want to see him like this' the other part knew I needed to see him. So we decided we would go tomorrow. Later that day while cooking tomato soup for lunch my own dad called me to tell me the news that grampa passed away. This plays so vividly in my mind. I was heart broken and I burnt the soup on top of it all. We went to be with my family that evening. I will always remember that day. Not by the number on the calendar, just the events. Today isn't normally the day I would like to remember him, it's too sad. In fact, if it weren't for Facebook, I would not have known today was that day. I like to remember him on his birthday, and any other day I need patience.
My grampa was quiet and patient. When he talked, he was funny and wise. He was such an amazing guy and I have some wonderful memories of him from my childhood. Visiting my grandparents every summer in Saskatoon, I remember specifically talking about toe jam at one point. Him driving me to my very first day at my very first job and I was so nervous, he assured me it would all be fine. It was.

Love you Grampa, miss you every day.
xo

BabyLegs Giveaway Sponsored by True Cuddles

2011-02-08T09:00:00.000-08:00

I'm pleased to introduce you to True Cuddles and Mother of a Deal.

Heather and Danielle co-own two mom-focused websites based in New Westminster, BC. The first is True Cuddles and they offer a deal a week on great baby and toddler products. Their second site is called Mother of a Deal (not to be confused with Mother of a Sale who I wrote about here) and it’s a free resource for moms who want info on deals, coupons, and freebies.

These lovely ladies bring you unique products at great discounts every week and this week they have a product so many moms, babes, and maybe even some dads love! At up to 50% OFF this is truly a steal of a deal! Why don't you cuddle this deal today!

True Cuddles is giving one lucky Mama to a Sweet Thing reader a BabyLegs tights and socks gift pack worth $50! That's 2 pairs of tights and 2 2-pack of socks(sizes and styles chosen by the winner)!

All you have to do is fill out the form below with the mandatory entry along with your name and e-mail address!

(Open to Canada and US)

Giveaway ends Feb. 13th 2011 at 9am PST

Important Links:

True Cuddles

Mother of a Deal

Mama to a Sweet Thing on Facebook

True Cuddles on Facebook

Mother of a Deal on Facebook

@mama2sweetthing

Did She Hit An Ice Berg?

2011-02-03T16:16:00.000-08:00

It's like the Titanic over here!

Sweet Thing's diapers are leaking everywhere. I can't seem to get them to stop leaking. I'm sure they are not repelling. I think it is the fit. I've tried adjusting them and it hasn't helped much. I use primarily Fuzzibunz and Charlie Banana. I have a few other brands that are doing alright and not leaking as much. So I need your help! Anyone who is familiar with these brands could you please give me some pointers!

30 Meals in One Day Review and Giveaway

2011-01-29T15:05:00.000-08:00

I did it! I finally did it, and it was great!
So, the whole idea of 30 Meals in One day is that you cook up a months worth of dinners in one day. Sounds scary doesn't it? Well that is precisely the reason it took me so long to do it. It is a very intimidating process, but I would say it is very well worth the effort in the long run.
30 Meals in One Day is made up of 3 cookbooks in total, Lunch, Dinner and Side dishes, optional computer software and labels. Basically you choose 15 meals from the cookbook(or through the software, which is genius, really) make sure the portion sizes fit the amount of people in your family, you might want to account for some leftovers for lunch the next day. Go through the shopping list and delete all the items you already have at home, make sure you look at HOW MUCH you will need. That is mistake numero uno. If you don't have the ingredients then what? Run to the store every time you find something you don't have? Not only will that be a total pain in the butt, but it's also a huge discouragement. So now, go shopping, and get EVERYTHING you need. You must make a list. Honestly there are no ifs ands or buts, if you do decide to wing it, you will forget something and you will either decide not to make that meal or just stop the whole process, which would be really sad. Once you have chosen your meals, gone shopping, and sat down for an hour, its time to look through the book and read about the process, read about the tips that will make it just a little easier, this is essential for success. One thing they advise is not to do the shopping and the cooking all in one day, you will burn yourself out.

So here is the process I went through, along the way I will add the things I found that can make it much easier on you.

Step 1: Choose 15 recipes. The book will give you a more in depth way to decide which recipes to choose since there are different methods of cooking different recipes, this is a very important thing to look at.

Step 2: Make your shopping list. If you are using the software this will already be done for you. All you will need to do is look through it and get rid of the items you already have on hand. Just make sure you have the right amount.
I found this was a really great thing to have, I only wish there was a way to delete more than one item off the list at a time, I had a lot of the stuff the recipes called for, so it was kind of tedious deleting things off one by one. Also, my computer is not hooked up to a printer so I ended up having to write my list out since there is no way to copy and paste(I would have e-mailed it to my hubby to print at work)

Step 3: Go Shopping the day before Cook Day. Take your time, Don't forget your list. Be sure to get everything on your list, even if you need to go to more than one store

Step 4: Prep anything you can. I didn't have much time the night before as we were going out, but I was able to cook all the chicken for the recipes that called for cooked, chopped chicken breast. Chopping all veggies, and grating all the cheese the night before would be a huge time saver as well. I can't count how many different times during our cooking day that I broke out the grater and grated the cheese. Prepping is a huge time saver and I strongly recommend it. Also get all the dry ingredients out and on the counter, get your mixing bowls, cutting boards, slow cookers, pots, pans, and can openers out and in the right spots.

Step 5: Rest your feet for the night, they will be sore(if they aren't already) in about 24 hours!

Step 6: Cook, cook, assemble, cook, assemble, freeze!

My tips: First and foremost I would really recommend first timers to do half the recommended amount of recipes. Because you are unfamiliar with the process, it can really get overwhelming and when you get overwhelmed it can really be discouraging. It is also a LOT of work to do in one day.

Don't use new bowls for everything, after each meal just rinse out your bowl and start the next, no need to wash with soap and then dry. Now you will read this in the book, but I just want to repeat that it's a good idea to have one set of measuring spoons, cups and bowls for dry ingredients and one set for wet. This will definitely cut down on time.

So on the back of the cook book its says 'no unfamiliar ingridients'. Well I have to say for me, there were quite a few unfamiliar ingredients, mostly the different 'culture' if you will. I'm in Canada, and the recipes are from the south. I have to say though that it's great to try some new types of food, new ways of putting things together, I get bored with the 10 or 20 meals I know how to make.
We have tried about 7 or 8 of the meals so far and I have to say that most of them were absolutely delicious. A couple weren't my taste but that's kind of to be expected. Trial and error, right? The first time you try this it is definitely a huge learning curve and when you finally get to eat the meals you will find what works and what doesn't, how much more or less you need to make next time. I found that the recipes with any pasta or rice that got cooked before hand and then frozen ended up a little mushy for my taste, of course that is a personal preference so I've made a note of that for next time. Once you do this a few times you will definitely figure things out and get into a groove. Soon the whole process will become second nature which is awesome!

Here are some pictures of my favourite meals so far and what it will look like ready to freeze.

This recipe is great over rotini pasta. It is very rich so you'll want to have some light veggies or a salad to go with it.

This recipe was supposed to be boneless pork ribs but we couldn't find any so we just used some sliced pork and it was fabulous. We served over rice and we had some steamed carrots to go with.

We haven't tried this one yet but I can't wait. Cheese Manicotti. I LOVE CHEESE, and there is like 5 kinds in this one. YUM!

One lucky Mama to a Sweet Thing reader will win a Dinner is Ready Cookbook and Software, that's a $40 value.

Also if the winner purchases the Dinner is Ready combo and then wins the giveaway, they will refund their entire purchase and shipping! Or, if the winner purchases the full set for $75 (before the giveaway) and then wins the giveaway, they will refund up to $60 of their order!

Giveaway Open Until 12pm PST Feb 12th, 2011
(Open to Canada and US)

I received a package of items for review. All opinions are 100% my own. No other compensation was received.

Recipe Link
Main Page Link
Mama to a Sweet Thing on Facebook

Gonna Move Into The Country, Gonna Eat A Lot of Peaches.

2011-01-27T13:35:00.000-08:00

I am ready to move to the country like Pioneer Woman (oh, how I envy thee) and forget the rest of the world.

I am 22. I am a mother to 1 beautiful little girl. Wife to a stubborn and wonderful man. And utterly sick of this world and being an 'adult'.

It`s not about the responsibility of paying the bills or taking care of a child. Its not about making tough decisions. Its not about having to cook dinner every night or the worries of how my kid might turn out. It`s about the drama between adults. It is seriously 100x worse than it ever was in high school and I am so disgusted. The world of social networking doesn't help one bit. People feel that they can say whatever they want without consequences. I have been guilty of it too, but that doesn't make it right or any better. Just because we all do it at some point doesn't mean it`s OK. People are far more nasty and confronting than they ever would be if they were talking to a real person face to face. It`s an extremely sad thing to think about really.

Therefore I will be cutting down the use on my personal Facebook account and doing a major clean up of so called `friends`. I love Facebook and I have become far too addicted and I feel like it is majorly cutting into my family time and seriously damaging to one`s mind. It`s great for keeping far away family informed on your life and to see pictures and updates of their grandchild, but other than that it`s just a hole for drama to accumulate.

Sorry for my little rant. Hope you can sympathize.

One'a Baby Two'a Baby

2011-01-21T09:43:00.000-08:00

One baby crying in the corner, one baby crying by the stairs, one me not sure what to do. This is a pretty rare scenario but one that still happens in my life these days. I am taking care of a friends daughter Monday through Friday, 8am-1pm. I have to tell you its been great! They are both around 14 months old, but so very different and so much the same. Sweet Thing is very independent, and mostly wants to do things on her own, she has huge ideas of what she wants to do with certain toys. C is quite easy going, this could be in part to the fact she is in someone else's home, but I'm pretty sure is usually this way. C is super sweet and girly, she loves to give kisses, and is so gentle(most of the time) with the pets. Sweet Thing is more bi-polar, super sweet, giving kisses and hugging her toys one second and freakin' out and throwing things the next. They are both extremely charming when they smile and they both love to show off their Bee-Bo's (aka. belly button if you are not familiar with the Belly Button Book by Sandra Boynton).

We've just arrived at the point where the girls are getting along so well and my days are getting much easier. Of course each day has it's moment such as when they both want the same toy, or when Sweet Thing wants EVERY toy. I know there will be new challenges, but for now things are awesome. Now it's just a matter of getting off my butt to do some housework instead of watching the girls play all day long.

Anyone else out there caring for other's children during the day? Give me the details. What kind of activities do you do? How do you deal with not sharing? Jealousy from your own child?

Zooper Update

2011-01-17T15:48:00.000-08:00

After ordering my Zooper Tango from the deal site Mother of a Sale. I was informed by the official Zooper facebook page that Mother of a Sale was not an authorized retailer for Zooper and that everyone was advised not to purchase from them. They were not advertising the proper model of stroller, they also would not come with the standard warranty. As with most deal sites they do not take returns or even let you cancel your order once you have paid. So I was basically SOL. Unless I called my credit card company to tell them this was not my purchase. But I figured I would wait it out and get the stroller and let this be a learning experience. Now I don't know if this is the age of the stroller (2008, I believe), the nature of the part or the fact I bought it from an unauthorized dealer, but the cord that is attached to the handle that you pull up to adjust the seat snapped on the second or third time I used it. Sweet Husband said it is fixable, but honestly, who wants to fix a supposedly brand new item? Some other things that are bugging me and it just may be the nature of the product is that the 5 point harness is incredibly hard to undo, and with a cranky kid in the seat ready to get out, having to fiddle around with the clips is a real pain. Hopefully it will loosen up with use. Also I noticed the stroller did not come with instructions on how to fold and un-fold. Maybe I am just dense but it took me about 15 minutes to figure it out. I was not at all impressed. Also the 'boot' that comes with it is supposed to snap on both sides and those are also so tough to push in, I literally had to get a hammer out, hopefully that will become easier with use as well.

Of course there are things I love about the stroller as well, but right now the bad parts and the fact that I overlooked something so important(especially with the price of the item) are overshadowing them.

My advice is to research the product and where it is coming from and especially if you are purchasing from deal sites that you make sure the company is an authorized retailer, otherwise you may get stuck with something with no warranty and inevitably a bunch of problems with the product. Whether it's the product itself or the fact that they might be seconds. This is definitely a learning experience for me, and I would not have bought this stroller on-line if I had more resources for such things in my area. I'd much prefer to shop locally and be able to see and touch and use things before purchasing such big ticket items.

Back to the Daily Grind

2011-01-11T09:46:00.000-08:00

After many a day away I am finally back to my normal schedule at home. I will hopefully be blogging more regularly now that holidays and vacations and visits are over for the season. I won't say that is my New Year's resolution because honestly, who keeps them? Definitely not the procrastinator that is me. I'm sure you have noticed I am a procrastinator if you have read this post.

Now for the updates, as if you really care about them.

Christmas was a wonderful time with my little family here at home, turkey dinner was a hit and Sweet Thing got spoiled.

Our trip to Vanderhoof went great. Our time there was even better, Sweet Thing definitely has a thing for animals just like her Grama Work. It's adorable, she says 'hi' to all the dogs and cats and even the horse outside. She'd rather hug and kiss the animals than the humans. She also had amazing power over the animals, when she would walk toward them they would all just move out of the way, not so much with any adult around, they literally act like you don't exist.

Now we are getting settled back down at home, Sweet Thing is trying to adjust to the minimal amounts of animals and far too many toys.

Today it is snowing like crazy and we are going to use her brand new sled from Christmas. Can't wait!

Many pictures from the holidays to come.

I am so happy to get back into blogging. I've missed it!

30 meals in 1 day scares me.

2010-12-23T08:50:00.000-08:00

I have been majorly slacking and I feel awful about it, I am supposed to review 30 meals in 1 day, but to be honest, I am so scared about starting it. It looks like a lot to take on. I'm sure once I get started it will be fine. I am just worried about getting into it and then having a really cranky baby for the day. I know I wont be starting it until the new year, middle of January at least since I'll be away for the first week. I am really excited for the recipes though, they sounds great.

Has anyone tried this system? Any words of wisdom? Encouragement?

Man, I Feel Like a Woman!

2010-12-21T15:21:00.000-08:00

After 23 months of being pregnant or breastfeeding, my period is finally back! And I couldn't be happier! Well the first few days of it anyway I was absolutely ecstatic. Once the cramps started it was a little different story. Granted, these cramps were no where near the pain I felt with them pre-pregnancy. I have heard that pregnancy is essentially a reset button for your cycle. Which for me is great news, maybe for once in my life I can predict my period. Now getting pregnant should be easier than going through month after month blindly.

Something I am considering is mama cloth(re-use able/washable pads, for those of you that may not be familiar). Now that I am cloth diapering Sweet Thing, I think it would be a piece of cake. Maybe a combination of that and the diva cup. Anyone use either of these? What is your preference? Where do you buy your mama cloth?

Were you excited to get your period after having baby? If you were breastfeeding how long did it take for it to come back?

I am anxious to have another baby, so getting my period back is a great step in the right direction, hopefully I wont have to deal with the cramps for many more months before there is another bun in the oven.

What's your story?

Zooper

2010-12-16T08:15:00.000-08:00

Well, I did it. I broke down and bought a double stroller. OK, I didn't break down. But, I did buy one. With having two 1 year olds in the house every week, I think it is going to be a great thing. As of right now, nap-time means going for a walk, and with one babe in the single stroller and the other in the Ergo(which is amazing and it works great, but sometimes I'd love a break, and Little Miss doesn't always fall asleep in it). So I am so excited to be getting a Zooper Tango Double Stroller in RED. Oh boy, I hope I don't regret the colour choice. They only white, olive and red to choose from. White is out of the books right away with it's amazing ability to get dirty and show every speck, and Olive just wasn't my taste, and the navy blue was all sold out. So red it is!

Anyway, I have heard amazing things about the Zooper, in fact, I was about to buy one on Craigslist about a week ago, but apparently the lady selling it had no courtesy. As far as I knew I was the first person to contact her, I asked to see the stroller that night. She told me she would have to get it out of storage and that the next day would be better. I waited for her home address so we could go look at it. When I emailed her the next morning for her address I got no response until 5pm. She responded with "it sold."
I just found that so rude, I was so excited to get that stroller, and for an amazing price too. Yet she couldn't have told me it was like a competition or whatever, other people were interested in it before me and they had dibs on it. It was very frustrating for me.
Anyway, I got my Zooper on Mother of a Sale, they still have them up! It was a little more expensive than I hoped I would pay, but it was kind of necessary and I know I will be happy in the long run. So if you are looking for a double stroller, go check it out! Can't wait to get mine!!

Stocking Stuffers

2010-12-10T12:04:00.000-08:00

Alright, I know I have been absent for a while. This time of year is insane and with me babysitting Monday through Friday, I have little time to get much done. But the family I am babysitting for is in Cuba for a wedding,(I KNOW, right?)so now is my chance, and I need your help!

Stocking Stuffers! For a 1 year old(girl, mine of course). I've heard all the same stuff so far, like, books, socks, stuffed animal, snacks. But there has got to be something more. Something unique and interesting, yet suited for a 1 year old. Christmas will be here very soon, so hoping I can get something locally. If I have to order now, it might not arrive on time.
So, help a mama out! Let's hear your suggestions! What did you get for your kids?

The Holiday Season is Upon Us

2010-12-02T11:40:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again! As soon as all the Halloween candy has been passed around, Christmas music starts playing and lights are put up before the cold hits. OK, so I'm a bit late to be talking about Halloween, but you know it, we've all been hearing Christmas music everywhere you go since Halloween ended. All the stores were getting their Christmas spirit on, stocking shelves with ornaments and wreaths, stockings and lights. I love Christmas, and as soon as I see all that stuff in the stores I am ready to decorate my own house.

Last year we decorated extra early because we knew we weren't going to want to do it after we had Sweet Thing, but this year we waited until her birthday was over. Now I am feeling that jolly spirit of the holidays, I have my satellite TV on the Christmas music channel and we've got the tree decorated from 3 feet and up. That's right, baby proof tree. I'm now babysitting another 1 year old on the weekdays and I've definitely had to baby proof to the max, so that means no shiny, glittery ornaments at eye level just waiting to chucked across the room or eaten. Oddly enough the tree doesn't look that bad. I've contemplated taking the bottom three layers of branches off. That way its baby proof AND we can fit more presents underneath! Score! And, yes, that means we have a fake tree, although I suppose you can do that with a real one too.

This will be Sweet Thing's second Christmas, but it will be the first she is home for it. Last year we went to visit my parents in Vanderhoof. This year the Air Canada Gods did not want to co-operate with me, so we are going on the 31st instead. Although I am sad we can't spend Christmas with my family, I am really looking forward to starting our own traditions this year, and I will also be cooking Christmas Dinner(minus the stuffing).

So tell me, what are some of the traditions you love or have started with your own family?
And, if you are far from family, how do you cope during the holidays knowing you can't be with them?

Cows and their Human Breast Milk

2010-11-27T16:57:00.000-08:00

Walking through the living room today while the TV was on, I caught a snippet of a music video by Pink called Raise Your Glass. I saw two different babies standing there, and didn't get quite a good look, but I thought maybe they had been wearing cloth diapers. A few minutes later I decided to check it out on YouTube. As I was fast forwarding through the video, I saw the babies, and unfortunately they were NOT wearing cloth. But on to more interesting things. There was Pink wearing a balaclava (or ski mask) feeding a calf with a bottle, the words "Dairy Farm" graffitied on the wall. A little strange to be in a music video, I'm sure there are stranger things. BUT upon further inspection, you see the bottle hooked up to some hoses leading to a machine, and then the machine has hoses leading to something else... women's breasts. Four women with blindfolds on and hoses hooked up to their breasts and a man in a mask inspecting them.
At first, it was a little disturbing, but it makes sense. I don't exactly know how to put it into words. I mean people think breast milk is only for babies (if that at all, which is really sad), and they don't find it weird or strange that we drink milk from cow's breasts, yet milk from their own species is some foreign substance, that is gross or what have you.
Hey guess what, we drink cow's milk, why not feed the cows human milk? Makes sense to me.
The song is about "underdogs". I wonder what is meant by putting that song and the milking human scene together. Is it somehow tied into human breastfeeding? And that maybe it isn't as weird as media makes it seem. I don't know. I have a hard time putting things like this into words.

What are your thoughts?
Here is as link for the music video by Pink. Cows are at 1:14

I just thought this was something worth sharing. I'd love to know what you think.

Snow Day

2010-11-26T10:00:00.000-08:00

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!!

Campbell River's winters don't usually get much snow, or so I've been told. 2 out of the 3 winters I have been here have been much snowier than I thought they would be. Apparently it is quite uncharacteristic of this time of year. Today is no exception. It is snowing like powdered sugar on a donut... ?
So anyway, we went out to play twice.

First time, it was just me, Sweet Thing and the dog.

Then Daddy came home!

And all she wanted was to be in his arms.

Ellie LOVES the snow!

Nice Family shot.

Sweet Pup Ellie

And this is what happens when the baby comes to me after being with Daddy. Yep, every time. What a Daddy's Girl

I grew up in Vanderhoof where the snow was bountiful for about 1/3 of the year. Campbell River on the other hand, when there is snow, it only lasts maybe a few weeks at most. Now, I don't love snow, I don't hate it either, but I appreciate it much much more when it's few and far between. It's beautiful and puts me in a festive mood, once that mood fades and the snow is still here, you'll probably hear me complain a little bit( not so much in CR but in Vanderhoof, yea, maybe)
Don't get me started on the temperature though. Coming from a possibility of -40(Celsius) where I grew up to a possibility of -20 on a rare occasion, I have to laugh when people complain about that -11 that it MIGHT get to over night. Granted, I know what -40 feels like and most people here don't, I still feel that you should think about it before complaining, that it's really not that bad.

Either way, we had a fun snow day, and I can't wait 'til Sweet Thing really enjoys playing in the snow and we can make Sweet Snow Angels together.

Growing up too fast

2010-11-25T08:08:00.000-08:00

1st Birthday

2010-11-24T12:15:00.000-08:00

The Cakes!

Orange and PINK

Now Orange and...WHITE? Thank you Mr. Sun

The Birthday Girl

Apparantly the cake wasn't all that good.

The fork was better.

Present Time!

She adores books.

She LOVED the car!

Now for gifts from Mommy and Daddy.

Crafty Mama in the Works

2010-11-20T09:04:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling super crafty today! Partly because I already committed myself to doing a few projects for Sweet Thing's birthday and because I completed something and I am so proud of myself.

I always like to think I'm a crafty, artsy person. I always think about projects I'd like to do, like build a doll house from old nightstand drawers. I constantly tell myself to get my pictures developed so I can scrapbook some of them. But this time, THIS TIME I actually did something! I applique-ed a onesie with a "1" on it for Sweet Thing. I also decided to make some flowers with the scrap fabric. Mind you HeatNBond isn't exactly rocket science, it's still something new for me. I even screwed up! Now I need to figure out how to get HeatNBond off of my (brand new, for this project) ironing board. Any suggestions? But other than that I am super pleased with myself and I can't wait to decorate her "1" shaped carrot cake with colourful (homemade) fondant!

Pictures to come.

Wish me luck!

Baby Fever

2010-11-17T10:11:00.000-08:00

As Sweet Thing's 1st Birthday fast approaches, I am constantly thinking back to when she was just a newborn, and even the day we found out I was pregnant. And of course while thinking back, it makes me want to do it all over again with a new one. That's right I want another baby, and to be honest, it's not a new feeling. I have pretty much wanted another baby since Sweet Thing was born. How could you not want another of my babies, they are so pretty.

I may be a bit biased, but I am not wrong.

It's been one crazy year. We had ups and downs, and huge learning curves. It was absolutely amazing at times, and unbelievably hard at others. It was all worth it and will continue to be, every time I see her cheesy grin, and hear her silly noises.

My life has changed so much because of this little girl and I couldn't be happier about it!

I love watching her learn, and seeing the world through her eyes. Everything is amazing and new again.

Winner Winner!

2010-11-12T17:06:00.000-08:00

Congratulations!

The Winner of The Charlie Banana Giveaway is:

#37

Laura

You are one lucky lady!

Please e-mail me at tenenda @ hotmail dot com with the title Charlie Banana

Welcome to the World Addyson

2010-11-09T09:21:00.000-08:00

It's a happy time here for our family! I have a new sweet little niece named Addyson. She was born yesterday morning to two wonderful parents and two awesome big sisters. I have to say with how ecstatic I am for my Brother-in-Law and his family, I am also feeling a little sad and emotional. I am in awe of how fast time has gone and my own sweet baby girl is just about a year old(in 2 weeks). The time has soared, yet crawled at the same time. I miss the days of holding a fresh and warm, tiny 6lb 9oz baby in my arms, feeling the softest skin on earth. But I have to admit, the first few weeks of my daughter's life didn't go quite as I would have liked.

We had a lot of trouble learning to nurse. I told my story here. It was a very painful time for me, both physically and emotionally. I dreaded every time she needed to eat. I considered quitting nursing every time she woke up. When she wasn't nursing, I was thinking about the next time she needed to. This is not what I had planned for us. I thought breastfeeding would be a cinch. Something I didn't need to read about before-hand, something that would come naturally. Well it didn't, and I was left thinking about the pain every time she would latch. Unfortunately, these thoughts consumed me, and I felt as though I couldn't enjoy my new baby. That was an awful feeling. Not wanting your newborn to wake up for fear of the pain of nursing. The first few weeks of having a new baby is so precious, you can never get that time back. I find myself really saddened by that and the fact that we had such trouble that I don't feel I thoroughly enjoyed it or took it all in. With all of that said, I want you to know, I couldn't be more in love with this beautiful girl my husband and I created, and in the long run my experience has not hindered our relationship. It is just one tiny bump in the road that we got through, and I hope for future babies I may have that we can work to make things different.

I am happy to report that after a week or so of pumping, a week of finger, cup or spoon feeding and 7 or 8 months of using a nipple shield we are doing it all natural. Now we are at almost a year and I am still her #1 source of nourishment. I couldn't be more happy or feel more empowered. This is what my body was meant for and I am using it the way it was intended. Such an amazing feeling.
I am so glad it turned out the way it did.

Anyone who has had a baby knows how fast the time goes, and how precious those first few weeks of life really are. Cherish every moment, take it all in, because before you know it that baby is going to be 1 year old. She is going to be walking and getting into everything possible, she's going to have fits because she can't have something. But don't worry, she is also going to give you the sweetest kisses, the biggest, tightest hugs, and a smile that will melt your heart over and over again.

Thank you for reading my jumbled up feelings and thoughts.
Any words of wisdom for the new(again) parents? This is their 3rd and last child(all girls).

Her First Halloween

2010-11-04T08:40:00.000-07:00

Fat Lip Baby

2010-11-03T12:48:00.000-07:00

Watching your little one learn to walk is amazing! It is exciting, and a little sad when you think about how fast they are growing. When my daughter walks, it is a proud moment for all of us. But learning to walk is a tough job. It's not always easy or fun. There are bumps and falls. Smacks and thumps. There are face plants and teeth in the forehead. Learning to walk is just dangerous.

Ever heard of 'bad things come in threes'? Well Sweet Thing had 3 spills in one day. They were no ordinary spills. Not something a kiss and a dance around the room would cure.

Spill #1 Face plant. Outcome: Tooth in lip = Fat Lip

Spill #2 What looked like a figure skating spin into the side of the tub. Outcome: Instant Bruise on the cheek.

Spill #3 The Straw that broke the camels back... Face Plant #2. Outcome: Second Tooth in lip = Another Fat Lip.

These were taken after the first fat lip, which was the worst one.

And just to put this into perspective, This all happened within about 10-15 minutes. I didn't get a picture of the bruise on the cheek. She had had enough by then, and I wasn't going to push it. But it was the size and shape of a teaspoon. Poor lady.

So hows about that tooth in the forehead you're wondering? Well here comes Sweet Thing walking towards me as I sit on the ground. My teeth at her eye level. Instead of walking all the way to me, she decides once she is close enough she will just collapse into my arms. How lovely! NO. Mama was caught off guard, smiling at the amazingness her daughter is and then BAM! Tooth in the baby's forehead. First, what just looked like a dent from my tooth in her head then turned into a gushing mess. OK so it wasn't messy or gushing, but it did bleed and Mama felt bad, very very bad. Then she proceeded to bonk her face on a bucket and cut her lip once again.

So this isn't a very good picture of it and it doesn't look too bad, but when it happened it looked gruesome. This was taken about 13 hours after the incident.

So learning to walk is full of ups and downs. Fortunately for me the ups far outweigh the downs.

Innocence in a Toque

2010-10-30T07:26:00.000-07:00

Charlie Banana Review and Giveaway

2010-10-29T10:13:00.000-07:00

I am in LOVE! Charlie Banana is a new cloth diaper company based in Hong Kong. They specialize in pocket diapers in the one size or sized form. They only come in snaps. They have microfiber inserts and you can also purchase disposable inserts for times that call for them.

I received ^^^THIS^^^ package of Charlie Banana products.

2 of their 2 in 1 one size diapers (one periwinkle, one white) 4 inserts total, 2 disposable inserts, 3 single wipes. 3 double sided wipes, and a tote bag.

White: Biggest setting Periwinkle: Smallest setting

The one size diaper has waist and hip snaps and you adjust the rise by changing the elastic setting in the legs. I like that there is only one thing to adjust on each leg unlike some other brands with the elastic system.

Close-up view of the leg elastic (smallest setting)

The pocket opening is at the front on the inside so the insert that goes in is completely covered up and nothing sticks out of the diaper when you put it on baby. The adjustable elastic is also hidden by the front pocket so it wont be against baby's skin when the diaper is on. I do find the front opening a little harder to get the insert out than other back opening diapers. But its nice knowing I don't need to tuck anything into the diaper after I have put it on. Also, knowing none of the microfiber is touching her skin is a comfort.

The diaper is so incredibly soft inside. I was amazed at the softness even after washing several times. My other diapers do not compare to the softness the Charlie Bananas have retained. I haven't had any staining on the insert or the lining. I usually use a flush able liner, but it never fails the time I forget it, Sweet Thing does her business that time. The solids (or not so solid sometimes) seem to come off very easily.

You can kind of see how thick the waist is. it is much thicker than the rest of my diapers, it's great, we have not had any red marks with our Charlie Bananas. This is one feature that I absolutely love about this diaper, and it doesn't create any bulk.

This diaper is one of the trimmest we own, which for me, is a huge selling point. We need something to fit nicely under regular clothes. It's cold here and as much as I would love her to be able to wear just a diaper and a t-shirt all day, it's just not possible.

I was so excited for this colour. Now we have a diaper to match our vine babylegs!

It fits perfectly, there are snaps for the waist and thigh individually. Using the snaps and the elastic inside, you can create a truly custom fit for any baby.

This one we have stuffed with the disposable insert. It's extremely thin this way. Perfect for when it's 'necessary' for it to be disposable.

To use the disposable insert, lay flat inside diaper and tuck the end under the front flap. Easy peasy!

Overall this is a fabulous diaper, it is one I reach for when I want to put jeans on my daughter, or when I just want the best fit and a cute butt! ;) They absorb great, wash great. Just an awesome diaper I am truly glad we have found.

Charlie Banana also carries a bunch of other things, including wipes, tote bags, wet bags, change pads, mattress pads. They also having training pants and swim diapers, leg warmers. They have mama cloth and nursing pads too.

Charlie Banana has offered one Mama to a Sweet Thing reader 1 One-size Charlie Banana diaper.

(Open to Canada and US)

How to Enter:

Mandatory: Follow Mama to a Sweet Thing through Google Friend Connect

Extra Entries:

Check out Charlie Banana and tell me your favourite colour or print of the diapers.

Like Mama to a Sweet Thing on Facebook

Like Charlie Banana on Facebook

That is a possibility of FOUR entries per person.

Leave a separate comment for each item you complete.
Please leave your email address in at least one entry so I can contact you incase you win.

Giveaway ends November 12th at Noon PST

I received a package of items for review. All opinions are 100% my own. No other compensation was received.

Baby's First Bowling Experience

2010-10-28T08:47:00.000-07:00

Sweet Husband arranged 2 games of 5-pin bowling for my birthday. We had a lot of fun and it was Sweet Thing's first time.

Dear Readers,

2010-10-25T08:43:00.000-07:00

It has been 5 days since my last post.
I have been slacking lately and I'm feeling bad about it.
I told myself I would be a blogger and try to blog at least 4 or 5 times a week. Lately that has not happened. But yesterday was my birthday, so cut me some slack...

I have decided not to blog on the weekends so I can spend that precious time with my husband and daughter together. Unfortunately that means no more Sunday Show and tell. Which bums me out cause I had a lot of fun with it. But family comes first.

Now here are some pictures of Sweet Thing in a few pretty dresses she owns but never gets the chance to wear. Not too many special occasions around here I guess.

funny face

guess the distraction!

WINNER WINNER

2010-10-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

Congratulations!!

The winner of the My Little Noggin Giveaway is:

THE SCHNEIDERS!

I just want to give a big Thanks to all who entered! This was my very first giveaway and I am very pleased with the results. I would also like to Thank the ladies at My Little Noggin for sponsoring this review and giveaway.

I will be emailing the winner, if I do not receive a reply within 48 hours I will select a new winner via Random.org

Giveaway Scout

2010-10-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Giveaway Scout?
They have a great service for bloggers and readers alike.
For bloggers, you submit your blog, if you do giveaways, and they will scour your blog often for giveaways and post them on their site and send out emails with a link to your giveaway for many to see!
As for readers, you can sign up to receive emails of the types of giveaways you are interested in, like mommy stuff or electronics to jewelry, whatever you like. I love this idea, and I get a lot of use out of it.
Check it out for yourself here.

Last Chance

2010-10-19T08:44:00.000-07:00

This is your last chance to get your entries in for the My Little Noggin/My Little Legs Giveaway! I will be drawing ONE lucky winner tomorrow afternoon! It is super simple to enter! One Mandatory Entry gets you a chance, and if you want more chances check out the post at the bottom! There is a possibility of 10 entries per person!

HURRY HURRY! Giveaway is almost over and there are only about 30 entries so far!

Thank you and GOOD LUCK!!

Agoo Apparel Review and Coupon Code

2010-10-15T16:52:00.000-07:00

I'd like to introduce you to Agoo, they are a Canadian company, specializing in UV protective clothing for children, tushie huggers and adorable bamboo leggings. They even have a mommy jacket.

We received the Mary Jane 'Twozie" in Rose for review just in time for our trip to Mexico.

A twozie is essentially a onesie attached to a dress or shirt. Two items in one. The things I love about the active wear are that they are stain resistant, four-way stretch, it wicks away moisture, and of course that they protect against the sun, which is essential for summer-time around here. Other great features are that they don't use tags on the neck, just printing. They also use flat stitching so there is no chafing, which is great for a baby(or kid) on the go.

I love this twozie, it has a lot of room to grow lengthwise, the tush on it is so cute with the little ruffles. The fabric is soft. I love that this is active wear but it is a little dress and it is still easy to move around in. It is a little confusing to put on, but once you've figured it out, its easy. The onesie part seems a little tight when putting it on, I probably should have gotten a bigger size. Overall, I love this product, it is great quality, I don't feel as if it's going to fall apart like I do with some other children's clothing. The colours are really nice, they aren't overly babyish or bright, and that is something I really appreciate.

Their active wear is made from Nylon and Spandex that they call Active Stretch. They offer a 50+ UPF rating on all their active wear. They have baby clothing ranging from 0-36 months and children's from 2-8 years.

Agoo also has a wide range of leggings, and they just came out with 32 new styles! What I love about the leggings is that they are made from bamboo, which is an amazing renewable resource.

They have also just come out with some new accessories including water bottles and gift sets that include a water bottle with different tops and a matching pair of leggings.

We LOVE our bamboo leggings!

They've also got something that they call Tushie Huggers, which are either a skirt or shorts attached to leggings, so they are all one piece. They just came out with Hockey Huggers, so you can choose your favourite team for your future hockey star!

Grampa's favourite team!

Check out Agoo on Facebook

Agoo has offered Mama To A Sweet Thing readers a coupon code for 35% off your entire order.

Use Code: agoovip35

While Hubby's away the Wifey will....play?

2010-10-13T16:23:00.000-07:00

What happens when my husband is gone for a night?

All day long I eat and eat and eat. And not on anything remotely healthy of course. I eat until I get a stomach ache. I eat until I feel ill.

What else happens?

I don't clean up after myself... or the baby.
The kitchen is a disaster, the counters havent been wiped. There are books and paper, dvd's, boxes and clothes all over the floor.

Why does this happen?

It never fails, the moment he leaves I become a slob. A big fat lazy slob.
And then at the very last minute I clean the house to perfection and he is none the wiser when he gets through the door.

And the Winner of the stupidest, most wasteful 'invention' ever goes to...

2010-10-12T12:43:00.000-07:00

KLEENEX

for their new disposable hand towels.

You know, it's so hard to wash a cotton hand towel once or twice a week. It's nasty to share a hand towel with your family and friends. You never know what happens between hand washing and hand drying. Thank goodness for these tree killing, waste producing hand towels, it's hard to believe that people lived through all that hand washing and drying through the years. Who knows where we would all end up if we had to dry our hands on *GASP* reusable hand towels any longer.

If you haven't heard of these, check out the commercial here.

It's unfortunate that people are so money hungry they will do anything to make a buck. Even if it comes down to ruining the earth for future generations. I never cared or even realized the consequences of such things a year ago. Since giving birth to my daughter, I feel very strongly about doing all we can to reduce waste. My daughter, my grand-children, great grand-children etc etc have to live on this earth. If stupid people like the Kleenex company keep doing things like this just to make money, there might not be anywhere for my great great great great great...(you get the idea) grandchildren to live, and that pisses me off!

Another thing...they don't even use recycled materials! They are seriously cutting down trees to specifically make these!

And what's wrong with germs anyway? The less germs we come in contact with the weaker our immune system. It's too bad that there will always be people who give in to things like this. Companies like Kleenex are creating germaphobes, and thats exactly what they want. It also looks like they want our home bathrooms to look like that of Gas Stations and Airports. YUCK!

Do yourself a favour and invest in some really nice cushy hand towels (and not a face cloth like they are using in the commercial), a good 'GREEN' detergent, and tell me whether you still want to use a tiny square of paper to dry your hands.

Happy Thanksgiving Canada!

2010-10-10T12:07:00.000-07:00

I am Thankful for...

- Family near and far.

- Sweet Thing and the way she dances, talks, learns, plays, her health, her wonderfully sweet hugs, slobbery kisses, her naps, everything about this little girl I am thankful for.

- Sweet Husband and all he does to support his family, the silliness he brings, the love he gives me.

- The food in my fridge, in the cupboards and the freezer.

- The freedom I have.

- My pets.

- Warm coats, toques, mittens and scarves.

- The ability to travel to visit loved ones scattered through the country.

- Cameras.

- Water.

- Not having debt (aside from the mortgage). Thanks to my wonderful husband who is so great with money.

- Our health and the ability to expand our family, unlike so many other unfortunate loving people.

- I am Thankful for my life.

Happy Thanksgiving Canada

My Little Noggin Review and Giveaway ~CLOSED~

2010-10-06T20:36:00.000-07:00

I LOVE headbands on baby girls!! That is why I am so excited to have recieved the snap gift set from My Little Legs and My Little Noggin. They sell crocheted hats with flower clips, crochet headbands, different gift sets, including Christmas and Halloween themes. They also have a huge selection of baby leg warmers, which I am a sucker for!

One of the best things about this company is, the more you buy, the more you save! You can get from 20-50% off your entire order depending on how much you spend. Their stuff is beyond reasonably priced in the first place, tack on 20-50% off, you are getting a steal! They also offer FREE shipping to all orders within the US and Canada and a $5.00 flat rate everywhere else.

This set is great, everything is interchangeable, everything matches. The snaps are genius! So much easier than clips on bands, I have a hard time with placement of clips, and they never seem to sit properly. So that is why I love the snaps, no guessing, just choose a flower and a band, snap and put it on baby!

You do need to be gentle when pulling the pieces apart. If you just yank on it til it comes off, it wont last forever. The bands are good quality, they aren't scratchy or too tight. The bows are adorable, and they are put together very securely. The flowers are cute and the perfect size for anytime. I do wish they had more colours, I need some blue and red. Overall, I think this is a great product, it works very well, the cuteness factor is a 10/10 and Sweet Thing doesn't mind them being on (after the initial tug anyway, once she is distracted they last forever).

My Little Legs and My Little Noggin has offered Mama to a Sweet Thing readers a coupon code for an additional 10% off your order. Thats a possible 60% off! Awesome!

Use code: "SweetThing" (only valid on orders of $20 or more)

expires October 20th/2010

Also, one of my lucky readers is going to win an item of their choice!

(excluding gift sets)(Open to Canada and US)

How to Enter:

Mandatory: Check out My Little Noggin and tell me what one item you would choose if you won and something you like about their new site design.

Extra Entries:

Like Mama to a Sweet Thing on Facebook

Like My Little Legs on Facebook

7 entries if you purchase using the code SweetThing

That is a possibility of TEN entries per person!

Leave a seperate comment for each item you complete. If you made a purchase, leave 7 seperate comments with proof(order number), numbered from 1-7.

Giveaway ends October 20th at Noon PST

Mexico

2010-10-04T20:51:00.000-07:00

Our trip started on the wrong foot. A scheduled 5 hour flight took us 8 hours. Thunder and lightning storms prevented us from making a safe landing in Peurto Vallarta, we tried 3 times. We flew down to Manzanillo, where we refueled and waited for the storm to clear. They could not let us off of the aircraft due to customs. So there we sat, on an idle plane, broken bathrooms, with nothing to eat at dinner time, only a measly bun and craisins in our bellies from lunch. There were about 5 or 6 babies on the plane, they were all angels, including mine. The adults on the other hand, crowding the aisles, shushing each other to hear the announcements, taking their shoes off and walking barefoot. Things didn't get better once we landed. We had to clear customs. This wouldn't have been so bad if we had gotten in line immediately, since we didn't realize we needed to fill the form out beforehand we went off to the side to do what we thought would take a while, when in reality it was a few silly questions that we could have filled out easily in line. The rest of customs went fine except the 200 other people in line in front of us and the humid air in the airport.

We make our way to the bus to take us to our hotel. The ride there was spent praying they would have something for us to eat. Luckily the restaurant was open another 30 minutes. Just in time for us to get in and get out with full bellies. The Buffet on the other hand, not what I was expecting at all. We ended up eating practically the same meal every day the whole week we were there. There was an a la carte restaurant as well but we read children were not allowed.

The next day was tough trying to get used to the heat and humidity. Feeling unsure about going in the sun much with Sweet Thing.
We decided to leave the hotel, we needed to get a few snacks and some water and we wanted to explore. So where do you go? Walmart of course. Yes...seriously, we went to Walmart in Mexico.
To be really honest, I didn't want to be in Mexico, especially after the flight there and I don't cope well with that type of heat. I was not a happy camper. We waited til the evening to go in the pool for the first time.
Sweet Thing loves the water.

A day or two pass, and in the evening none of us are feeling very well at all. Sweet Thing and I were fine by the morning but poor hubby was feeling awful, so the next two days were spent mostly in the hotel room. We were on the 18th floor. The very top floor, and the elevator was beyond slow. Carrying a baby in one arm and a bunch of soda crackers in the other was not an easy task.
We made some wonderful friends who we hung out by the pool with for a while. That was my favourite part of Mexico.
We hung out down on the beach where, merchant after merchant were after us, trying to get us to buy hammocks, and necklaces, temporary tattoos, dresses, and shrimp kabobs. That is the one major drawback of being on the beach. I understand that this is how some people make their money, but it is so darn frustrating, because you cant say yes to everyone and you feel bad about the stories (true or not) that they come up with to sucker you in.

We went down to the boardwalk one day where I really broke down, I was not having a good time, people were constantly after us about trying tequila and getting us to sign up for a timeshare. We were walking hand in hand, baby in the Ergo on daddy, when this man comes between us and puts a bracelet on my wrist and getting us to make him a deal, he put two more on my wrist and gave us a price, we'd had enough so we bought them and got in the nearest cab to get back to our hotel.

I hate to sound ungrateful, because I am very grateful, we had a wonderful opportunity to see something new, and a week to get away from our everyday lives. If we didn't have a baby with us, I think it would have been a much more enjoyable trip and we would have been able to do a lot more things like swimming with the dolphins, or a trek through the jungle, zip lining. So many opportunities. This was not a good family trip, unless all you want to do is sit on the beach or by the pool. Which is awesome of course, just not what everyone pictures when thinking of Mexico.

Now to end on a positive note. Don't get me wrong, I had a great time, most of the time, the sun came out every day after amazing thunder showers at night. The palm trees were beautiful, the ocean was warm, the sand hot on my feet, a light tan on my shoulders, and not a worry of the rest of my everyday world. We got to see a new culture, and feel blessed for the things we have and take for granted.

My last post and The Versatile Blogger Award

2010-09-21T12:04:00.000-07:00

I won the Versatile Blogger award from Marcie over at The Simple Things.

A "Versatile Blogger" brings everything to the table - a little of this and a little of that.

Here are the rules for the Versatile Blogger Award:
- Thank and link back to the person who gave you the award.
- Share 7 things about yourself.
- Pass the award along to 15 other bloggers who you've recently discovered and think are fabulous.
- Contact the bloggers you chose and let them know about the award.

7 Things About Me:

1. I used to love acting, I was in several school plays growing up. I loved it. I had a blast, and I think I was pretty good at it too. I think if someone asked me to be in a play now, I would freak out and say no.

2. I don't like sports. I've never been good at them, and I can never seem to remember/understand the rules to any sport.

3. Even if I was planning on cleaning the bathroom, and you told me I needed to do it, I probably wouldn't. I don't fare well with people who tell me what to do.

4. I dislike talking on the phone. Except to close family and friends. I hate calling to make appointments.

5. I am not full Attachment Parenting, but a variation. I keep my baby close and don't let her cry-it-out, we'll breastfeed til she is ready to wean. I believe we have instincts for a reason.

6. I ♥ Food. My dad's homemade Buffalo Wings, Eclairs from Woody's Bakery, Strawberry Rhubarb pie, Roast Beef and Yorkshire puddings, Anything with Bacon. Though I am still pretty picky, especially about veggies.

7. My daughter changed my life in ways I never knew it would. It has been the absolute best 10 months of my life and I can't wait to do it all over again someday soon.

Now to pass on the award! Here are the blogs I will be giving a "Versatile Blogger" award to:

Ok...after much thinking, I have decided not to pass this award on. So many of the blogs I read deserve this award, and quite honestly it would take me a day and half to get everyone's links together and their email addresses to notify them. And even longer because I don't have a mouse at the moment. And I don't have the time to do that, as this is my last day to spend with my family until Christmas and me and Sweet Thing are leaving tomorrow morning, taking a 5 hour bus ride to meet up with Sweet Husband, take another 4 or 5 hour car ride to a friends place, go to sleep and wake up in the morning to hop on a 3 hour plane ride.

I just wanted to let you know I really appreciate this blog award, and maybe when I get back and have some time I will send it on to those who deserve it!

Thanks again, and see you in a week!!

Sunday Show and Tell

2010-09-19T07:41:00.000-07:00

Welcome to week 5 of Sunday Show and Tell

Post the Sunday Show and Tell button anywhere on your page, link up and follow as many people as you want, don't forget to leave a comment to let them know you were there!
Please follow the top 4 linky spots, our hostesses Jill from A Masters and a Mom, Meaghan from BellOrel Baby and Me, Sarah from Mama to a Sweet Thing. And our lucky Hostess of the Week, Purely For Fun.

In order to become the Hostess of the Week you must display the Sunday Show and Tell button somewhere on your blog (not in a post).
Creating a Show and Tell post is not mandatory, but isn't it fun? Include a picture of anything you want(show) and write about the significance of it(tell).

***********************************************

This is Sweet Thing with Georgette, my cabbage patch baby that I got when I was 2 years old.
She adores baby dolls. She hugs them, kisses them, and points to their noses. She will make a wonderful mommy one day (not too soon I hope..)

Time to get creative

2010-09-16T08:12:00.000-07:00

My hands and head are dying to get creative! There are so many cool things I have seen being made lately that I want to get in on the game too.

First of all, this adorable doll house made from some old drawers. Irresistably cute for a little girl. Maybe I will get one made by the time Sweet Thing is interested in something like that.

Another thing I want to do is get back into scrapbooking, to this day I have not finished a single book, and I haven't even touched pictures of my daughter.

I'm finding it hard to make time for things like that. I love to just get into a project and get it done all at once. It's so much more satisfying that way. At the rate Sweet Thing's naps are going, I will barely be able to get all my supplies out and she will be awake again.

One day I suppose. I just don't want it to go too long, and the job be too big and then I just won't want to deal with it anymore. I guess the first step for me would be to get the pictures developed. Darn digital cameras, they make it too easy to get way too many pictures. Film cameras made things easier for scrapbookers.

How do you make time for your projects when you have little ones needing you every 5 minutes?
I'd love some tips.

The time is just about here

2010-09-15T20:58:00.000-07:00

I will be leaving on a 2 week trip on Friday, the first week I will be visiting my family while Sweet Husband goes hunting with his dad, and on week 2 we are flying to Mexico!

So my posts will be few and far between the first week and non-existent the second.

I have decided not to bring my laptop with me to Mexico so we can truly have a getaway.

The last few days have been extremely busy making sure we have everything we need for our trip. The biggest thing I was worried about was getting a good sunscreen for Sweet Thing (that The EWG approves of).
We ended up getting Badger from a local health food store. It has a rating of 1 which is the best available. I was very relieved when I came upon it. No more need to order from somewhere far away and not receive it on time. I've also got the Ergo carrier which I'm sure will be a God send.

We've got our passports, our itinerary, we exchanged our money, now all that is left to do is pack our bags and clean the house. Which might prove tough to do with Sweet Husband gone on business until the moment it is time to pack the car and go.

So in the meantime invite all your friends to the blog and my facebook page!!

Don't forget we have some great reviews coming for you as soon as I get back!

Fun Stuff

2010-09-14T08:06:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to tell you all about something I received in the mail yesterday!

30 Meals in One Day!

Huh? 30 meals in ONE day?? Wouldn't you be full? That's what Sweet Husband said.

Basically you cook up a bunch of meals in one day and freeze them! When you want to eat a meal, you thaw it and reheat!

I can't wait to try this out, unfortunately I have to wait 2.5 weeks to start...not that I am that sad about it because I will be in Mexico!

Keep an eye out for my review in about 3.5 weeks and one of my lucky readers will win a Dinner is Ready cookbook with computer software!

Check it out!

There will also be a review and giveaway posted ASAP when I get back from Mexico (I am not taking my laptop, a complete escape...It's going to be hard...I'm addicted to my computer)
This one is fun because I am reviewing it IN Mexico!!

Also, follow my Facebook page and help me get to 200 'likers' and we will have a giveaway! For more information click here.

Baby Teeth

2010-09-13T15:52:00.000-07:00

Aren't they just the cutest??

I wish this one wasn't so blurry.

Cutie

Man, I love her!

Sunday Show and Tell

2010-09-11T22:21:00.000-07:00

Welcome to week 4 of Sunday Show and Tell.

Post the Sunday Show and Tell button anywhere on your page, link up and follow as many people as you want, don't forget to leave a comment to let them know you were there!
Please follow the top 4 linky spots, our hostesses Jill from A Masters and a Mom, Meaghan from BellOrel Baby and Me, Sarah from Mama to a Sweet Thing. And our lucky Hostess of the Week, the Kostiuk Crew.

In order to become the Hostess of the Week you must display the Sunday Show and Tell button somewhere on your blog (not in a post).

Creating a Show and Tell post is not mandatory, but isn't it fun? Include a picture of anything you want(show) and write about the significance of it(tell).

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This is a medium DreamEze AIO diaper in Vanilla.
It was an impulse buy!
I like it!
The significance of this diaper is that it was one of my first diaper purchases ever!
But now, it doesn't fit Sweet Thing well anymore :(
And now I have to make room for ones that will fit and not sit in the closet until the next baby.
So....any suggestions on what I should do with this diaper? Leave a comment with your idea!

I am all OUT

2010-09-11T08:56:00.000-07:00

of diaper detergent!!!
And I have a HUGE wet bag of dirty diapers!
And no cloth diaper store in town!
And no licence to drive to the next town to buy some. ( and I only have no licence because I have never gotten it, not because it was taken away :P )

What to do, what to do.
None of my friends use cloth...
Hmm..

In the 4 or so months I have been cloth diapering, I have not actually bought a whole bag of detergent. I have just been trying out some samples. It's worked out pretty well until now!

Any suggestions until I'm able to get to a store that carries what I need?

Rainbow Dolls

2010-09-10T07:37:00.000-07:00

Good Ol' Facebook! Introducing people to things they've never seen before!
I am IN LOVE with these adorable Rainbow Dolls(etsy) !

Sweet Husband and I have been thinking of what we want to get Little Miss for her 1st Birthday, and we have unofficially decided on a baby doll. And wha'd'ya know, surfing Facebook, found the sweetest dolls, which I fell head over heels for.

These dolls are Waldorf inspired and are made of organic cotton and Eco-wool (Megan(Owner/Creator) defines that here) Which I don't see very often, if ever. It is a great way to ease your mind on your child's health, Sweet Thing loves putting things in her mouth, as do most babies, and I hate the idea of plastic and synthetic materials leeching their nastiness on my baby.

These are one of a kind dolls!
I dream of one for Sophia with fair skin, strawberry blonde hair with some bright colours mixed in, freckles and round blue eyes.

She even makes boy dolls!

They come in a variety of sizes up to 16 inches. They have the most precious outfits and you can even purchase extras, as well as fairy wings, and a mermaid outfit. She also makes wool "mommy" and baby headbands. These dolls take her up to 24 hours to make....and that is just ONE doll!

I wish with every ounce of me that I had the money to purchase one of these for Sweet Thing.

They are absolutely so unique, and would be the best keepsake when they grow out of playing with them. Which honestly if I had one of my own, it would still be sitting on my bed or on top of my dresser so I could admire it daily.

Take a look at her etsy shop and become a fan of her Facebook page here, Megan is doing a giveaway for a beautiful Rainbow Doll once she reaches 800 fans(likers)!

Life is Good - My First Blog Award

2010-09-10T00:44:00.000-07:00

Thankyou Myrah from Coupon Mamacita for my very first blog award!!!! Check out her blog, she posts tons of coupons and good deals on all sorts of things. I am very excited to have received this award!

The Life is Good Award: To accept the award you must link back and Thank the person who gave you the Life is good award. Answer the 10 questions and pass it along to 6 other blogs.

1) If you blog anonymously are you happy doing it that way; if you are not anonymous do you wish you had started out anonymously so you could be anonymous now?
I blog partly anonymous, I don't offer up names often, but they are there if you really want to know.

2) Describe one incident that shows your inner stubborn side.
I forced Sweet Husband into using cloth diapers. I talked about them all the time, spouting off the benefits, he was very against the idea, but I told myself I wouldn't back down. I finally won!

3) What do you see when you really look at yourself in the mirror? ME, but the new me, a Mother! I am still fun, and listen to the same music, laugh at the same jokes, and even some that I probably wouldn't have before, but there is just a little something extra, maybe its wisdom, or maybe its just tired eyes, either way I have a new reason to wake up every day and I love it!

4) What is your favorite summer cold drink?
Water, for sure.

5) When you take time for yourself, what do you do?
Surf the net, blog, shower or watch tv and snack.

6) Is there something you still want to accomplish in your life? What is it?
Get my full driver's licence. Yea!

7) When you attended school, were you the class clown, the class overachiever , the shy person, or always ditching?
Definitely the shy person!

#8) If you close your eyes and want to visualize a very poignant moment of your life what would you see? I would see myself looking at my daughter for the very first time, it was the most amazing moment I've ever experienced.

9) Is it easy for you to share your true self in your blog or are you more comfortable writing posts about other people or events?
I like both, I think I share my life more than others lives.

10) If you had the choice to sit down and read or talk on the phone, which would you do and why?
Hmm, I would like to talk on the phone because I am not much of a reader at all. With that being said, I HATE talking on the phone if it isnt someone I know, say having to call to make an appointment, I hate it!

Now passing on to 6 other AWESOME blogs!!

Exploits of a Military Mama - Sally, you inspire me everyday! I love everything you write about, the way you write it, and the beautiful outlook you have on life! And of course you crack me up!
A Masters and a Mom - Jill, Thankyou for hosting Sunday Show and Tell with me
BellOrel Baby - Meaghan, Thankyou for hosting with me as well!!
Our Life In a Click - Heather, Loving the transformations of your place, can't wait to copy your pantry!! :)
Life: Full of Unexpected Happiness - This award just seemed all too fitting!!
Paisley Passions - LOVING your DIY projects! the chalkboard table!! Fabulous!

Babies Bringing Mommies Together

2010-09-09T10:20:00.000-07:00

I moved here 2 years ago with my then fiance, not knowing anyone. I didn't work for the first few months here, as I was getting our house settled with all of our stuff and starting to plan our wedding. And then we found out I was pregnant, I had awful ~~morning~~ all day sickness, so I stayed home trying to down my Sprite and Goldfish crackers. At the end of my pregnancy I tried to find a birthing class, but alas they were all full, they directed me to a lady who does private classes. As I searched her website I found that she did baby and mommy aerobics and yoga classes, as well as a stroller fit class. I was so excited! I would get some exercise, and maybe find a friend! Well I found a friend!!

Now we've been to a few different types of classes and I found more friends, and so has Sweet Thing!

I am so glad for the wonderful ladies I've met, we have a good time together and it's so great to have a support system and to be able to talk to others who are going through the same things as I am.

If it weren't for my baby, I wouldn't have met these awesome women!
Babies bringing Mommies together!!

The Aunt is STILL not back!

2010-09-08T08:04:00.000-07:00

9 months postpartum I still have not gotten my period back.

What's the problem you ask? 18 months(and counting) of no period, Bliss!

Well, my crazy husband and I want another baby!
And I know it is possible to get pregnant without your monthly visit from Aunt Flo (ok, I seriously don't call it that in real life), but the problem lies with not knowing the approximate time of ovulation. No period = No indication
Mind you, we weren't watching the calendar when we conceived Sweet Thing.

I had this idea that since birth control can regulate an irregular period, then it might be able to bring my period back. We talked to the Doctor during Sweet Thing's 9 month check-up, he said it just doesn't make sense.

So BOO to that!
The only thing he said that may bring back the period is to stop nursing. I love my doctor, but I HATE that he told me that. Now I understand the circumstances and it's not like my baby is only a couple weeks old and we are having trouble, he isn't telling me to stop nursing because my baby is too thin or too fat or whatever. But just the fact he said the words "stop breastfeeding" makes me a little sad. I can only hope he is supportive of new moms trying to do what is best for their babies and not telling them to stop nursing then, at such a crucial age.

As much as I want another baby(boy) right now, I am not planning on weaning Sweet Thing any time soon. In the meantime I will enjoy my daughter, my husband, my period-free life and getting a glimpse of my long lost pre-pregnancy body(and FINALLY fitting into some of my pre-pregnancy jeans. Woo Hoo!)

Welcome to The End of Summer

2010-09-07T21:05:00.000-07:00

What signifies the end of summer for you?

I have always felt that once school starts, summer is over. But I've been out of school for a few years now and my daughter isn't in school yet, so I feel like that shouldn't be the sign for me.

Technically summer isn't over until September 21st.

I guess the weather changing should be a good sign. Over Labour Day weekend it got really ugly out there. A big ugly rain storm... OK it wasn't really a storm, it just poured...like crazy. Ahh, leaves turning the most gorgeous reds, oranges and golds

What about all the Halloween and Thanksgiving decorations and costumes in the stores? That's a big indicator for me. It also gets me really excited for fall. I love getting all cozy inside while the leaves are falling, sipping on hot apple cider (OK, so I've only done this about twice, but I loved it, and I smelled some at the mall the other day, and I just really wanted to cuddle with Sweet Husband on the couch, ahhh!).
And YAY for Thanksgiving in October for the Canadians! I don't think my stomach could handle two turkey dinners so close together, it can hardly handle one, but I could probably eat a pumpkin pie every week! Yumm!

Yea, so I went to find a delicious picture of pumpkin pie, and amongst them all I found this and just had to post it!

What else tells me summer is over?
I'm not sweating my butt off doing nothing! No fans going, instead the heat is being turned on. Windows are closed. Eventually a gorgeous frost lays over everything, and snow starts to fall......WOAH THERE!! I am getting way ahead of myself here! I'll stick with the leaves falling and the frost for now, the changing of seasons just means my tiny little peanut baby is growing up. How about deciding Sweet Thing's first Halloween costume, any unique ideas?

What was your baby's first Halloween costume?

200 Followers!

2010-09-06T10:16:00.000-07:00

I am celebrating 200 blog followers by getting 200 Facebook "Likers"

If you haven't "Liked" Mama to a Sweet Thing on Facebook yet, you might want to now! As soon as we get 200 Facebook "Likers" I will be giving away some online gift cards! Choose from $5 Amazon.com or .ca, ME! bath, Cafe Press, PayPal, and more.
If you want the gift card to be a bigger denomination you can help me out by signing up with Swagbucks through this link http://www.swagbucks.com/refer/tenenda
If I get a few of you to sign up and you search and win, then I win too, in turn the prizes will be better and there will be more winners!
Let me know if you sign up through my referral link and you can get 5 extra entries into the drawing!

If you don't know what Swagbucks is check out the How it Works page.
Basically you search the web through the Swagbucks tool bar, you win Swagbucks, when you have enough Swagbucks you can turn them in for Swag, including gift cards, apparel, DVDs, and much more!

So what are you waiting for? Invite all your friends to the blog and the facebook page, Follow and Like us, and when we reach 200 "Likers" on Facebook I will post the giveaway!

Sunday Show and Tell

2010-09-04T07:33:00.000-07:00

Welcome to week 3 of Sunday Show and Tell

(Please note a change from last week)

Post the Sunday Show and Tell button anywhere on your page, link up and follow as many people as you want, don't forget to leave a comment to let them know you were there!
Please follow the top 4 linky spots, our hostesses Jill from A Masters and a Mom, Meaghan from BellOrel Baby and Me, Sarah from Mama to a Sweet Thing. And our lucky Hostess of the Week, Breanna from College Girl with a Passion.

In order to become the Hostess of the Week you must display the Sunday Show and Tell button somewhere on your blog (not in a post).

Creating a Show and Tell post is not mandatory, but isn't it fun? Include a picture of anything you want(show) and write about the significance of it(tell).

************************************************

I bought this adorable bathing suit with my best friend while I was pregnant, before we knew the gender.

I brought it home, took the tags off and hid it somewhere I knew my husband would never find it.

I was so worried that I jynxed my chance of having a little girl.

I was overwhelmed at the ultrasound when we found out our little jumping bean was infact a girl!

Next time I am pregnant, I am buying something for a little boy...couldn't hurt right?

Dot-Tastic Bathroom

2010-09-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

We fancied up Sweet Thing's bathroom this morning.
OK, it's not technically 'her' bathroom, it's the spare bathroom, for guests. But we never really have guests so we call it her bathroom.

We moved into a 2.5 bath home from a 1.5 bath home. So we only had one shower curtain...which I absolutely hated in the first place so we scrapped that and just bought one for our en suite. We never bothered with one for the spare bathroom until we found out my mom was coming to visit for 2 weeks.

At the time I was 2 or 3 months pregnant and had awful morning sickness. So Sweet Husband went and bought this awesome colourful polka dot shower curtain. I decided that that would be the 'theme' of the bathroom.
And there it sat like that until this morning. I have been wanting these polka dot wall stickers since I saw them a year and half ago.
Now the bathroom is all decked out!!

It is so fun and colourful and I love it!

Our wet/dry bag has polka dots too!!

Perfect for kids, and of course gender neutral, because I want a boy next!!

Even her diaper cover and her bath doll's undies are polka dots!!

I still have a few things I would like to do/get for the bathroom

I would love to get a brightly coloured, round bath mat. Brightly coloured towels. A soap pump and toothbrush holder. Also I need to repair the wall where our lovely cat loves to scratch all the time. Also need to figure out some more storage options, the only place for anything is under the sink.

So what do you think? Is it tacky that we decorated the bathroom so 'kiddish'?

I hate getting ready in the morning. Brushing my teeth..I dread. Showering, not so bad, but making my hair look nice, huge pet peeve. I want to make the bathroom a 'fun' place to be, so my kids wont mind being in there and getting ready. I want to make it a positive thing!

Chef Brent

2010-08-30T12:31:00.000-07:00

My dad is an amazing cook!
For as long as I can remember he was the one who did most of the cooking in our house growing up.
Unfortunately, I don't get the pleasure of tasting his food very often anymore.
The last time I was visiting I took notes of a few recipes he made while I was there.
This is a simple one, but it is just so delicious I had to share.

Shrimp Salad:
6-9 medium sized shrimp per person
pepper, seasoning salt, butter flavoured oil spray
mixed greens
Parmesan cheese
croutons
other toppings such as tomato, green onions mushrooms, cucumber, onion, anything you like.
Garlic Bread is a must to soak up all the extra dressing, YUM!

Dressing:
2 parts Olive Oil to 1 part White wine vinegar ( I ended up playing around with it trying to find the right amount for 4 people and I came up with 10 Tbsp Oil to 5 Tbsp Vinegar)
1-2 cloves of Garlic freshly pressed
1 Tsp Dijon Mustard
Salt and Pepper to taste

Put all ingredients in air tight container, shake well.

Thread shrimp on skewer and sprinkle with fresh pepper, seasoning salt and oil spray.

BBQ shrimp for 3-5 minutes on each side
Lay shrimp on greens
Add desired toppings
Serve with Garlic Bread

So easy, but so delicious and SUPER healthy!!

Sunday Show and Tell

2010-08-29T08:17:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the second edition of Sunday Show and Tell.

Post the Sunday Show and Tell button anywhere on your page, link up and follow as many people as you want, don't forget to leave a comment to let them know you were there!

Also, Please follow our hostesses in the first 3 linky spots! Jill from A Masters and a Mom, Meaghan from BellOrel Baby and Me, Sarah from Mama to a Sweet Thing.

Creating a Show and Tell post is not mandatory, but isn't it fun? Include a picture of anything you want(show) and write something fun about it(tell).

-----------------------------------------------

For as long as I can remember I always wanted to wear glasses.
When I went for my very first eye appointment when I was 19, I got glasses.
I wore them for about 2 months.
I don't know where they are anymore.
I think I might need to start wearing them again though.
I get a headache whenever I lookat a screen for too long.

Emotional Find

2010-08-27T12:36:00.000-07:00

I don't have a button for my blog. So I decided to go into Picnik where I already had an account, to make a button quickly. I haven't used Picnik all that much, but there were a few little projects in there.

I came across this one:

This was a 'postcard' I created to send into Post Secret

I looked at the date it was created....

Six days later...I found out I was pregnant!

It was very emotional for me to see this.

Two years might not sound like a long time to try for a baby, but for me it was heartbreaking every time I got my period. I think I have always been 'destined' if you will, to be a mom.

I love this little girl with all of my being!

Upcoming Giveaways

2010-08-26T18:02:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the crap posts the last couple of days!

To make it up to you, check out my Reviews/Giveaways tab and check out the great giveaways I have coming up for you!

I'm hoping to get at least one out and ready for you to enter before I leave for Mexico(Sept 23rd-30th).
One I will be working on while IN Mexico!
So let your friends know.
Put me in your favourites. (HAH! I'm so vain!, I am one of your favourites though, right?)
And "Like" me on Facebook (right hand side--->), I will be announcing there as well when I put up a giveaway.
You wont want to miss these awesome giveaways, so stay tuned!

I Signed Up for SocialSpark

2010-08-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of IZEA. All opinions are 100% mine.

SocialSpark is a website that brings bloggers and companies together. It's super easy to sign up! It took under ten minutes and I was approved right away!

Here's how it works:
Sign up with SocialSpark and "Claim" your blog.
Create your profile, adding you interests, what your blog is about, and all that good stuff.
Add a picture.
Look through the opportunities.
Decide what you want to write about.
Most things require the post to be at least 200 words.
They all specify how much the post pays.
Write your post!

This a great system. Especially if these are products you use regularly, or subjects you would blog about anyway. Might as well make some money doing it. Being a SAHM, this is a great way to earn some extra money on the side, without having to leave home with your little ones.
Dont forget to check out their Code of Ethics.

My experience has been great so far and I can't wait to write more posts and earn some spending money in the process.

Sign up for SocialSpark! Take 10 minutes to enter your blog/website information and confirm your blog. Once the sign up process is complete, there are many unique opportunities awaiting your participation! Simply choose what you'd like to write about, read the criteria and go! Simple! That's how I like it!

If you Sign up for SocialSpark, let me know! I'd love to see what you write about!

Testing

2010-08-25T08:10:00.000-07:00

123

Tuesday Tag-Along

2010-08-23T21:17:00.000-07:00

Welcome to this week's Tuesday Tag-Along blog hop, hosted by Twee Poppets Review and Giveaway! This is a great way to discover new blogs while increasing the number of followers for your own blog.

Link up, check out some new blogs, and gain some new followers!

Have fun!

1 Year, Mexico etc. etc.

2010-08-23T11:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our 1 year wedding anniversary!
It's been one heck of a year that's for sure!
We didn't get eachother gifts or go out for a fancy dinner.
Instead we bought an All Inclusive 7-day trip to Peurto Vallarta, Mexico!!!!!!

WOOO-HOOO!!

This will be my very first trip outside of Canada!
Needless to say I am SO stoked for this trip! It is going to be so fun and I get to share it with my two most favourite people!
We are staying at the Holiday Inn in Peurto Vallarta, they have a gorgeous pool with a swim up bar. Beautiful ocean views from the rooms.

Can't wait!

We leave in a month and I've already started prepping, figuring out what we need to make things safe and happy for all of us.
We bought an Ergo Baby Carrier which we got for a steal at the consignment store. The carrier was absolutely brand new, never washed, never used. Perfect condition. And I love it!! It will be so nice for walking around Mexico. Yay for hands free!
I am also on the hunt for some safe (according to the EWG) sun block for Sweet Thing.

Unfortunately we will not be using cloth diapers while we are there, I still haven't perfected my wash routine and I don't want to deal with stinkies in the hot Mexico sun. I would however like to use maybe a hybrid system with disposable inserts. I still need to research it to find whether I could buy the inserts there, what are the chances of that? If you have any suggestions I would love to hear them!

Sunday Show and Tell

2010-08-21T11:04:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my very first LIVE Blog Hop!

Post the Sunday Show and Tell button anywhere on your page, link up and follow as many people as you want, don't forget to leave a comment to let them know you were there!
Also, Please follow our hostesses in the first 3 linky spots! Jill from A Masters and a Mom, Meaghan from BellOrel Baby and Me, Sarah from Mama to a Sweet Thing.
Creating a Show and Tell post is not mandatory, but isn't it fun? Include a picture of anything you want(show) and write something fun about it(tell).

--------------------------------------------------------------

My cell phone, my love!

I absolutely ♥ my cell phone!

It is so cute and girly, and I love the gold.

I just wish I got more phone calls and text messages.

The QWERTY keyboard is great, and I can text at lightning speed!

The sound is pretty good.

The screen is also huge and I have a sweet picture on it.

I ♥ Cleo!

It's Friday again!

2010-08-19T21:28:00.000-07:00

Adoption, The Next Generation

2010-08-19T09:21:00.000-07:00

Sweet Husband and I were driving around last night when I saw a lady I had seen before with her 3 children. I said to Sweet Husband how adorable African children are, and remarked that I would adopt one. He brought up a very good point. Why don't we adopt the children in our own country before looking elsewhere? We are so focused on helping other countries and making ourselves look like heroes that we overlook the needs of our own country.

I'm not familiar with the adoption process or the requirements, but it should be a requirement to adopt in your own country before any other. I know it's all the rage to adopt from other countries, we see it all the time in the media, Angelina Jolie(although I do love her tattoo for her children), and Sandra Bullock. A child isn't a fashion statement. I don't doubt that people who adopt a child from a different race or country love those children. But it's become a much too popular thing to do.

We aren't done having children, and if we don't have a boy in the future we might think about adoption.
If you or anyone else are thinking about adoption please help your own country first! There are so many children in need right in front of our eyes, we are just too blinded by what the rest of the world is doing.

What are your thoughts on the matter? Do you know anyone who has adopted or have you adopted? I would love to hear your thoughts and stories.

EDIT:

I've been corrected, Sandra Bullock adopted within the country.
Also it was pointed out to me that this post may sound hurtful to some, and that is certainly not my intention. I just wanted to point out something that I think many people don't really think about when it comes to adoption. I just think we should help our own Country first and foremost.
I'm so glad I received the feedback I did. I didn't realize there were so many people who have adopted around me to give me some good insight into the process(including my mom and uncle which I only learned a few years ago) I want to thank you, for your feedback and just say keep doing what you're doing!

My First Review - Sesame Street eBooks

2010-08-18T15:15:00.000-07:00

Here goes my very first review!

Product: Sesame Street eBooks

Description: "An eBook is a digital version of a printed book. When you read a Sesame Street eBook with your child, you can make story time extra engaging with bright pages, audio narration, interactivity, animation, and more. Best of all, Sesame Street eBooks are ready to read right here, right now!"

Price: $39.99 per year

Sweet Thing and I got the chance to try out a FREE one month subscription to Sesame Street eBooks.
If you love Elmo and all his friends, you'll love these eBooks. They've got a few different types of books to choose from, and a whole list of subjects as well.

First we've got just the regular eBooks that you can click to turn the page and read to your child.
Second is Audio eBooks (this is the one we used the most) where the pages turn for you and someone reads the book to you.
Third is Animated eBooks where the pictures are moving and the story is read out. Each of these books are about a certain letter of the alphabet.
And fourth are the Interactive eBooks where the child would click and drag items to their designated spot.

Sweet Thing is a little young to quite grasp the concept of the eBook, she loves grabbing books and eating them, but she enjoyed watching the animated and audio eBooks. The eBooks are just like the classic Sesame Street books. Elmo and his antics, the teaching of morals and responsibility, as well as the plain old silliness and fun.

I love that there are over 100 eBooks to choose from and they are always adding more. Check out a demo of Sesame Street eBooks here.

This is a great system for reading if you have extremely limited space say in a small apartment, or maybe you travel a lot and would like to limit the amount of items you bring. It's also great at home every now and then if you are really busy and need a good way to entertain the kids for a few minutes.

A One Day Streak

2010-08-16T11:11:00.000-07:00

I woke up on Saturday at about 6:30 am ready and rarin' to go. I put on my stretchy Nike pants and a summer Olympics tank that haven't touched me in AGES. Strapped the baby in the jogger, and took off!
It felt great for about the first 18 seconds.

Got home and put Sweet Thing on the floor to play and proceeded to lay on the couch clutching my stomach.
Intervals of walking and jogging for 20 minutes left me sick to my stomach.
Am I really that outta shape?
I had planned on jogging bright and early everyday, at least every other day. Well today was the other day and the jogging thing did not happen for me. Maybe because of the outcome of Sunday's jog, or because I woke up late and by that time it was just way too hot outside already to do anything. So instead I am stripping my diapers, trying to stay cool by barely moving and closing the blinds. Maybe I'll eat a popsicle today.

Next try...a two day streak!!

Any jogging tips? or motivational words? I seriously need to get rid of this baby fat, it's been 9 months already!

Sunday Show and Tell

2010-08-15T08:04:00.000-07:00

So today I will tell you a bit about Sunday Show and Tell.
It is something I made up and it isnt quite ready I suppose.

Here is what I want it to be:
Every Sunday we post the button I've created for Sunday Show and Tell in a blog post a long with anything we would like (or we could have a theme each week) to write a quick blurb about and include a picture(show and tell). I also want it to become a blog hop. I know I'm not a fan of blog hops that you need to write a post for, especially if there is nothing to write about. So I thought this might be a little more fun, you can share something fun about your favourite piece of clothing or your pet peeves, anything you can think of, really.

What are your thoughts on this? Would you participate in writing a post and linking up?

Here is what it would look like for me:

Today's Show and Tell is about our favourite book.Write a post including the Show and Tell button and a picture and blurb of this week's subject.Don't forget to link up.

My favourite silly children's book

Anything by Sandra Boynton
This is one of my personal favourites

I haven't had the chance to read them all but the ones I have are just so darn cute.

They are definitely books that adults can enjoy.

And anyone can learn from them... I mean she uses the word 'cavort'.

(ENTER LINKY STUFF HERE!)

I'll try to post on Saturday night so you have a chance to post that night or Sunday morning.

OK. so what do you think? Too complicated? Too boring? Not interested? Could be better?

Baby Eco Mart

2010-08-14T12:12:00.000-07:00

Baby Eco Mart is having a Buy one Doopsy Insert get one FREE!
Go check it out here

Use code FREEDOOPSY upon check-out!

And So It Starts!

2010-08-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

Get out the gates, get out the screwdriver!! Little Miss is crawling up the stairs!!

Little Miss at 8.5 months crawling up the stairs! Oy!

Trying to get to the kitty!

And as soon as she does, the kitty runs away!

Needless to say the kitty isn't very friendly!

And yes I know I already have a gate, but now we need one at the top and bottom. We also need to bolt the top one to the wall. Not supposed to use pressure gates at the top of stairs. Oops!

When did your little ones start crawling up the stairs?

Did they have any major falls?

Flashback

2010-08-11T14:30:00.000-07:00

So I was going through all of my facebook photo albums and I want to share some of my pregnancy pictures and the photo shoot we had done. I absolutely loved being pregnant! Aside for the morning sickness. :)

14 weeks

18 weeks

22 weeks

29 weeks

37 weeks

40 weeks

40 weeks + 2 days

This picture was taken just before going in to get induced. That induction didnt work so we went in the next day to do it again. Let me just say NEVER AGAIN!

And here are the pictures from the photo shoot courtesy Tanya Wood Photography

This is at about 29-30 weeks if I remember correctly

I really want to do it all over again!

♪Home home on the ran...UH.. Home Sweet Home♥

2010-08-11T13:51:00.000-07:00

Yep, we made it home!
It was a long trip.
Sweet Thing was not happy on the flight, and I just about got ourselves lost in the airport.
But we got a nice welcoming at the airport from Sweet Husband.
As much as I love going to visit family, it is always nice to get home.

Home Sweet Home

Simple Gift Stories

2010-08-10T13:01:00.000-07:00

My breastfeeding story has been posted on http://www.simplegiftstories.blogspot.com/

Go follow and share your own breastfeeding stories.

I Just Knew

2010-08-10T07:57:00.000-07:00

When did you first realize you were pregnant? Was it when your period was late and you took a test? Did you just know? Did you find out while trying to diagnose another symptom or illness?

I have to say with all my symptoms, I just KNEW I was pregnant.
I had sore boobs. I was getting dizzy and a little nauseous every now and then. I was in the bathroom frequently. I was late for my period.

Last night I remembered the excitement I felt as I waited a few extra days to take a test. Just to be absolutely sure. I had this overwhelming feeling that yes, I was pregnant. In bed I would hold my lower stomach all night knowing something amazing was happening in there, to keep everything warm. How could I not? After 2 years of nothing, something was finally happening!

OK you are looking at my age and the '2 years of nothing' and wondering WHY? Well technically we were never 'trying' (but not really preventing either) but in my mind it was a disappointment every time my period came around. I think I was destined to be a mommy! I don't really remember wanting much else.

After 8 days I convinced Sweet Fiance (yes we were engaged beforehand) to buy some tests. We headed to our regular grocery store and asked the lady what the best home pregnancy test was, and she told us to go to the Dollerama. Seriously?? The Dollerama?? OK! Off we went to the Dollerama, bought a couple tests.

Boy was I nervous. I really wanted a positive. I remember that day very well! I was wearing this cute flowy purple shirt and it was St. Patricks Day!

I took the test and came out of the bathroom....and waited.... OK does that not seem like the longest wait ever?

Sweet Fiance wanted to be the one to look at it first, and so he did. I peeked over his shoulder but couldn't really see anything. Then he turned around with a huge smile on his face and said "my baby's having a baby!"

I have never cried so hard because of something I was so happy about! This really was the best day of my life. It was so incredibly special to share that exact moment with him. We spent a long time hugging and laughing and crying (and jumping up and down). It was simply amazing!

What's your story?

Is there anything in particular that reminds you of the day you found out?
Mine is a song called Laughed Until We Cried by Jason Aldean ♥

Sunday Show and Tell

2010-08-08T15:43:00.000-07:00

My favourite cool-you-down summer treat!

Raspberry Sherbet

My dad made home-made raspberry sherbet with raspberries from my uncle's yard!

DE-LISH!

Just Two Weeks

2010-08-07T20:42:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how much you can appreciate something so much more when you dont have it.
Its almost been two weeks since I've seen Sweet Husband.
All of a sudden, when I talk to him on the phone I dont want to say goodbye, I could just talk to him forever, and I find him a lot funnier too!

I know I've got a great guy!
He's offered me a huge chunk of his bonus next year to "do whatever" I want with. Seriously? Your gonna let me blow a thousand bucks!?
He tells me he loves me and most of all shows me.
He is an AMAZING father. He just loves Sweet Thing to pieces!
He is genuine and I know he wouldn't do anything to hurt us. Besides he's worked too hard to get his life where it is now, to just throw it away on something worthless.

And to Mrs. Trophy Wife and all the other Military Mamas I couldnt imagine being in your shoes. You ladies are strong beyond belief! You do it because you have to, but honestly I think I would go a little crazy! Props to you!

Sweet Husband, I love you!

Oops! I bought diapers again!

2010-08-07T08:43:00.000-07:00

I know I mentioned being a cloth diaper addict. But this week just proved it! I seriously went nuts! Sweet Husband and I had an agreement when I first decided to use cloth diapers, I was only going to buy one diaper a month.

Well that has NOT been the case at all! Let's see, how many did I buy in the last 3 days?.... 1....2.....3,4....5.
That's right 5 diapers...that is 5x the amount I should have... 500% more than I was supposed to. 3 of them were from daily deal sites, another was an item added onto an order that I had won, and another at the local farmers market in Vanderhoof.

Maybe I'm just an online shopping addict! 'Cause diapers are not the only thing I've bought. The only good thing is, I am getting stuff we need....ok Sweet Thing doesnt NEED an amber necklace right now, but she might! And if I'm in pain, I can just wrap it around my wrist right?
I did win something so I'd say that kind of makes it ok....right?
And besides I'm saving money in the long run by using cloth...
Ok....please tell me I'm justified.!

And you know, I go through these phases, one day I've got a bunch of money in the bank and BAM! it's all gone from shopping online! And then as I recieve all my packages in the mail, I'm one happy camper. And as soon as I've gotten the last item and there is more money in the bank, the cycle starts all over again.

Ok serioiusly... is there a Diaper Addicts Anonymous, or a Shopping Online Anonymous???
I NEED IT!
Either that or take away my paypal. That is the source of all online shopping evil!!

help?

What is a Blog?

2010-08-03T20:46:00.000-07:00

To me, a blog is a place for me to write whatever I feel like writing! I may be sunshine and rainbows one day, and I may hate the world and everything in it the next! I won't lie and I won't sugar coat anything!
Take what I say with a grain of salt!

World Breastfeeding Week

2010-08-01T11:22:00.000-07:00

This week I am celebrating World Breastfeeding Week!
What a wonderful thing to recognize breastfeeding!

When I was pregnant with Sweet Thing, I read all the books about pregnancy and birth and even a little bit of parenting! One thing I didn't give a second look was breastfeeding. I knew I was going to breastfeed, I wasn't worried about getting my newborn to latch. I thought it would be a piece of cake.

How wrong was I?

Breastfeeding was a challenge for us from the beginning.

After giving birth, we tried to latch about an hour later, with not much luck, we didn't worry about it. She wasn't hungry anyway. Later on in the day we tried again, and it was painful, and the nurses were trrying to help, telling me she's got it, she's doing well. But it was still painful, after unlatching and relatching, I was still in pain, finally I gave up and kept my mouth shut because the nurses weren't helping. Sweet Husband helped me hand express the colostrom to spoon feed our newborn.

We went home the next day.
That night was awful our beautiful newborn screamed for what seemed like an eternity, we tried everything, rocking, bouncing, singing. Anything but nursing. I didn't want to, I was hurt.

Finally we had a nurse come to our house, she then gave me a pump and told me to pump every two hours and 'finger feed' Sweet Thing so I could heal.

I healed and we tried nursing again. It was still painful, like someone pinching my nipple as hard as they could. We tried different positions. Nothing helped. We were told she had a tongue tie and may need to clip it.

A new nurse came a few days later and fitted me for a nipple shield.
Finally after 10 days of pumps and tiny cups and syringes full of mommy milk Sweet Thing was able to nurse, and I was pain free!!
I was ecstatic, I felt like a real mommy!

We nursed successfully from then on with the shield, and only recently have we both been completely weaned from it now at 8 months.

Although the beginning was tough and I had more than my fair share of doubts and not wanting to do it anymore. I stuck it out and I am so glad I did. I now love breastfeeding, it is a nice quiet time for me and Sweet Thing, I love that I am the only one who can do this for her. I love that she was a tiny 6lb 9oz baby girl and and now she is a healthy 18lb 8 month old, all thanks to mamas milk. I am sad that our breastfeeding is slowing down now that Sweet Thing is on more and more solid foods lately. I will not wean her, this is her decision.

I urge every mother to breastfeed, and though you may think you just can't do it anymore, you can! You really can!

Check out what World Breastfeeding Week is all about.

The Big 100

2010-07-29T11:14:00.000-07:00

Well, I made it to 100 followers!
Thankyou so much everyone!!
I have a few things in the works for you guys!! First, I have a review I am working on! And second I am also working on getting a couple reviews/giveaways together as well! So stay tuned within the next month for my review and you'll just have to wait a little bit longer for the giveaway!!
I just really want to thank everyone for their support and hope that we can get to know eachother better! And what better way to do that than a poll!
It would really help me to get to know my followers better if you would answer a quick poll on the top left and right of my page. I would really appreciate it!

Thankyou all so much again for your support and I hope you will keep coming back!

The Real Beach Experience

2010-07-25T21:58:00.000-07:00

Sweet Family and I spent the afternoon at the beach!

It was a gorgeous day, not a cloud in the sky, a beautiful blue ocean, and my wonderful family.

We bought a pop-up sun tent for sunny days like today and we used it at the beach, it works perfectly!

With a nice shaded spot out of the sun, its perfect for a family with young babies who shouldn't be in the sun or if you aren't comfortable with putting sunscreen on your child.

Sweet Thing had her first taste of sand today!

Some fun beach photos.

And then we went to the MILs for homemade pizza.

It was a great 'last' weekend to spend with Sweet Family before heading off for two weeks!

Goin' Home

2010-07-20T19:28:00.000-07:00

In one week.
Me and Sweet Thing are flying up to Vanderhoof to visit my family.
For two weeks.
I am super excited!
Over the moon if you will.
It's going to be exhausting.
But well worth it.

We haven't seen my family since Easter so it's pretty special.

When I think back at my childhood, I remember going to visit both sets of grandparents over summer holidays, just about every year. It was very exciting, I anticipated it every year, and was extremely dissapointed if we weren't going to be able to make it.
And when I think, "I wish we lived closer to my parents" I remember how special it was gearing up for a big road trip and finally getting to the city and giving my grandparents a big hug and getting spoiled the whole trip.

And because I know we won't live in the same area as my parents, I really hope that Sweet Thing and future Sweet Thing's feel the same way as I did.

Grandparents are special people and just because they may live far away, doesn't mean they're forgotten or loved any less. You may not have as many memories with them, but the ones you do have will sure be good ones. Remember quality not quantity!

It kinda makes me happy my grandparents lived so far away, because when I did see them I cherished my time with them more than I would have if I saw them every week. Every moment was special, and I've never taken them for granted.

♥

More {Followers} Monday

2010-07-18T22:30:00.000-07:00

I am partaking in the first More Followers Monday created by Mama B, Little BGCG, and Baby Dickey.

This is to gain followers and meet new bloggers!

Here's a little about me!

My name is Sarah and I am 21 and Mama to a Sweet Thing, Sophia, and wife to a wonderful husband Rob. We have been together for about 4 years. We were in the middle of planning our wedding, when we found out I was expecting our first little one! What an exciting year it was for us! I am a SAHM! We have a dog and a cat. We live in the beautiful city of Campbell River on Vancouver Island, where Rob was raised. I just recently started blogging, so I have a great log of my daughters firsts. I am learning to cloth diaper, and be green. Lovin' life and being a Mama!

Hope you'll follow me, and leave me a note letting me know you've done so, and I will follow you back!
I look forward to getting to know you!

I'm Pale Green

2010-07-16T12:26:00.000-07:00

Like the palest green!
And by green I mean eco-friendly.
I am trying to be GREEN green though!
My journey of going green started when I heard of modern cloth diapers. I searched and searched all about them. Sweet Husband thought cloth diapers were for suckers, so I questioned it and learned all about the nasty stuff and production of disposable diapers. That is the ultimate point I went green...litterally, I felt sick to my stomach knowing about the chemicals in " 'sposies" and that they can be a factor in asthma, and reproductive problems later in life. Its quite sad that we are putting those kind of harmful chemicals near the most sensitive of human body parts.
But more to the point. Going Green!
I have decided to try my best to reduce the waste my family produces, and for the stuff that is unnavoidable, we are going to recycle (which technically we already do, cause our town ROCKS!)

So here is a list of things I would like to start doing in order to save our precious earth:

use un-paper towel
up-cycle old clothes for projects
take shorter showers
go to more garage sales
unplug anything that "glows"
recycle all the old cell phones kickin' around
shop for produce at the farmer's market
let the grass grow
only wash full loads of laundry
compost

Things I already do to be green:

use energy efficient appliances
use compact fluorescent light bulbs
use cloth diapers (working on cloth wipes)
recycle: yard waste, plastic, paper, glass
line-dry our clothes in the summer
drink water from the tap, and bring my own water bottle
use eco-friendly cleaners
my husband drives a hybrid for work (the only vehicle we own currently)

Do you have any suggestions for other ways I can be green?

Nifty Nifty Nappy!!

2010-07-15T22:51:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, there was a twitter party for Nifty Nappy and the launch of two new diapers!
The Heavy Doody for extremely heavy wetters and overnight and the Bitty Bums for newborns. Well I was one of the lucky ones who won one of these fabulous new Bitty Bums diapers! And I just got it in the mail today and OH EM GEE!! This is THEE cutest, tiniest, most precious diaper you have ever seen. It litterally made me want to run outside screaming for a newborn to try it on! I could not put it down! I am in LOVE! It is just a bit smaller than my hand when all snapped together. I actually took a picture, I just couldnt resist! Also it is just SO soft and squishy, I just want to cuddle with it!!

Really the picture just doesnt do it justice to how small it really is! Check it out on a precious newborn!
So sweet!
And I LOVE this print! It is just so fresh, just like the gorgeous newborns it will surround!
I can't wait to have another baby to try this adorable diaper on!!

Now, I only own one other Nifty Nappy, which I just recieved a few days prior, so we have not gotten it fully prepped, but I have put it on my daughter twice and I love it. It is incredibly trim, and so soft and snuggly! I can say I will definitely be investing in some more of these diapers in the near future! Go check out all of the great prints(at the bottom of the page).

Nifty Nappy also has an organic version of the fitted, a pocket diaper. They do woolie wraps, soakers, and longies all from upcycled wool! Go check them out! You wont be dissapointed!

I've just gotta say Vilate from Nifty Nappy is awesome and she definitely knows what she is doing!! She's definitely got me feeling the fitted and wool LOVE!!

Off to scour her page and decide what I'm going to buy next...

Butt Change

2010-07-13T23:31:00.000-07:00

Okay so My New Life as...Mom, The Cheap and Choosy, and Trees Will Bend have gotten together for a link-up opportunity for moms who cloth diaper to see others routines of changing their little ones bums!

Now I am fairly new to cloth and don't have all the things I need at the moment (pail liner, diaper sprayer, etc), so my "routine" is not so much a routine, but working with what I've got.
Here is how a diaper change in my house looks:

First, depending on where we are in the house and where our diapers and 10 x 11 wet bag is, we either tromp up the stairs to Sweet Things room, or we use the change table on the playpen if everything is there.

We pick out the next diaper, sometimes I let Sweet Thing choose, she is very undecided, so I usually only give her 2 choices.

Then the old diaper comes off and I use about a million disposable wipes if she's had a poop (hoping to use cloth wipes ASAP). Set diaper aside.
Put new diaper on, which can take a while because I litterally have the squirmiest baby EVER!

Set Sweet Thing down to play. Take the soiled diaper, shake off any solids into the toilet, scrape with toilet paper the not so solid solids and usually forget to flush, pull out insert, and stuff it into the wee wet bag.

How I'm hoping my routine changes:
I'm waiting for a hanging Planet Wise wet bag, which should hold all my diapers without any squeezing! I'll have that hanging in Sweet Thing's room! I'm getting some fleece liners to make the solids business a little easier. And hopeully have everything in one spot! One designated area to do everything would be FAB!!

One day I'll give you an update of my routine. Hopefully it will change, and be easy peasy!
Until then, Here's to un-organized running around like a chicken with it's head cut off diaper changes!

Another Milestone!

2010-07-11T21:56:00.000-07:00

Sweet Thing crawled her first crawls today! Oh what an amazing little thing she is! I don't know if I was more excited to see her crawl or the fact that Sweet Husband got to witness an amazing first for his daughter.
Either way, I was far too excited and I just about cried!

And this isn't the only thing....a few days earlier she started pulling herself to standing.... WHAT? So we lowered the crib. Oy! Thankfully it was easy enough! But man Sweet Thing is just about grown up and off to college! I know everyone tells you it goes fast, but you never really give it a thought until your in the middle of it! Next thing you know she is going to be running around with something she can't have and I'll be chasing her half naked. That's the time I'll wish I didn't have neighbours.

Needless to say we are panicking over baby proofing the house! EEEP!! Any tips?? Leave a comment with some pointers and if you have a funny story about when your little ones started getting into things! I would love to hear about it!

Off to fill in the plug holes....

Tell me about yourself!

2010-07-09T22:26:00.000-07:00

Hey Followers!!

I want to get to know you! If you would be so kind as to leave me a comment telling me a little bit about yourselves and what you like to see in a blog. I am thinking about doing a Review and Giveaway to celebrate my fans and to thankyou for supporting me! I would love to get some ideas as to what may interest you. What kind of group of people do we have? Mommy's? Mommy's to be? Independant Women? Americans? Canadians? Who are you? I would love to learn more about you! And hopefully you will stick around and get to know me and my Sweet Family!

Thankyou so much, I look forward to getting to know you!

Fun Photo Friday

2010-07-09T22:01:00.000-07:00

We were busy taking pictures today!
Enjoy!

A special photo shoot for a Rockin' Green contest

A ball!!

You can vote for us on Facebook if you'd like, the most votes(likes) wins! Vote for us here!

Sweet Thing in the background with her friend. Sweet Thing is 5 days younger!

Loungin' in her Kumquat Fuzzibunz! One of our favourite brands so far!

Sweet Thing's first dip in a cold pool! She didn't mind one bit!

Doing the same things she does out of water!

Just about falling over. But not quite :)

This was my stash a week ago. 7 diapers in total

This is my stash today, 10 diapers

So pretty! We love our fluff!

Thanks for taking a look! Hope you'll join us again soon!

HOT HOT HOT! And some random stuff.

2010-07-08T22:15:00.000-07:00

About 38 Celsius here today! As if that's not bad enough I had my Strollers and Strength class today, where I had to walk 30 minutes there and back, and we had a potluck lunch in the park afterwards! So 2 hours of workout and an hour of lunch later, I am beat but not too burnt! :)

On my walk back home after my class, I called Sweet Husband just to say "Hi" and he informed me that his mother's Jack Russel Terrier Sammy is at the vet getting surgery on his wee wee!!! Why?? Some sort of blockage, preventing him from peeing. Apparantly he fainted in the yard this morning and they took him straight to the vet. Poor fella! Although I honestly hate that dog, I don't wish that kind of pain on anything.
Quite honestly he doesnt get any excercise, so he is rambunctious like nobody's business. It's not his fault though. If he had a few puppy manners classes and a few daily walks, I'm sure he would be a pretty great little companion. The MIL is not that kind of person though, apparantly she needed more of a lap dog who doesn't care about excercise.

Sweet Husband is asleep on the couch and he left the TV on Seinfeld....
WHERE IS THE REMOTE????

What should I do? It's too hot to go to sleep. It's too hot to eat. It's too hot to do anything. How about an ice cube bath? Now there's an idea!!

The Beginnings of a Diaper Addiction

2010-07-05T17:25:00.000-07:00

I became interested in cloth diapers about 3 or 4 months ago. I did tons of research on all the different kinds, priced everything out, and tried to convince Sweet Husband that cloth was the way to go, he was not keen on the idea in the least bit (and still isn't). I finally got to try cloth about 2 months ago with a trial kit from Huckleberry Baby Shop. Although I was very grateful to be able to try a bunch of different kinds, I still felt there was more.

Fast forward to now, and I have several different types of diapers coming in the mail, most of which I have won, from other blogs and through Facebook. But I'm still looking for more. I want to explore the world of fitteds and wool covers, I want to learn to fold the perfect prefold and learn to use a Snappi properly. I want to find an ultra trim diaper to look slick under pants. I want to try out some All-in-two's and hybrid diapers. I want to find the ultimate night-time solution so we can avoid chemical filled disposables all together. There is also the aspect of the perfect detergent, and the best wetbags. I haven't even begun to explore the wonders of the diaper sprayer. Don't forget cloth wipes, if you're gonna use reuseable diapers you might as well go for the whole she-bang and try out the reuseable wipes too. I could litterally go on forever, but mostly I want to find the perfect fit for Sweet thing, find the perfect routine, and take millions of cute pictures of that fluffy butt!

I love cloth, and I feel an addiction growing!

Happy (late) Canada Day!

2010-07-04T21:56:00.000-07:00

I love my Country!
But I don't love going out late with Sweet Thing.
We stayed home with Sweet Husband and watched movies instead.
We still saw (part) of the fireworks from our house.
And that was just enough for me.
I'm not the biggest fan of big crowds, and people running into eachother.
I'm not a big fan of drunk people stumbling around me.
I'm not a fan of second-hand smoke for me, and most of all my daughter.
I AM a fan of fireworks, but not the noise and smell it creates.

Staying home and living where I live, I got the best experience of the night! YAY!

Happy Birthday Canada!

Admirer Monday

2010-07-04T21:43:00.000-07:00

I've been featured in the #3 spot for Admirer Monday!

Click the button to the right of my page and link up to get some new followers!
Be sure to leave a comment letting them know you are following, and they will be sure to return the favour!

I will follow anyone who follows me and leaves a comment!

Milestones

2010-06-30T20:18:00.000-07:00

Sweet Thing has hit a bunch of milestones lately, including going from a sitting position to her knees, learning to wave, cutting her 1st tooth and her 2nd a few weeks later, her first word DADA, and now her first sign MORE.

We only just started signing less than a week ago, so this is extremely exciting. I haven't had a real good chance to read the book, so I personally don't know very many signs. But "MORE" is the sign I have been using the most, I use it after each cheerio and after a few bites of whatever is in her bowl.

This morning she got chunky-apple-saucy-something-er-other (some sort of cross between a puree and chunks of apple). Apparently she loved it because she signed for more after each bite. Of course the sign was not perfect. For those of you who don't know the sign its kinda like when you make your hand look like the beak of a bird (or someone yapping) with both hands and you touch them together like they are kissing. That is the sign for "MORE". So Sweet Thing's version was kind of just putting her hands together.

And how I know that she was actually signing and not just playing? She never puts her hands together unless she is switching toys to the other hand. So to me it was pretty obvious. Of course I called Sweet Husband as soon as I saw her doing it. I think it's important for him to feel included in the excitement even if he isn't there at the exact moment. I think hearing the excitement in my voice over the phone, is the next best thing.

I'm so tossed up about my feelings. I'm so ecstatic when Sweet Thing learns something new, like to make noise when you tap her mouth or to pick up a cheerio with her forefinger and thumb, yet at the same time, It's also sad. She isn't a tiny baby anymore who sleeps through everything. She doesn't need me to put my hand under her head when I pick her up. She's getting so big and its absolutely amazing to see her grow and learn. I love seeing her bright eyes every morning ready for the day.

It's the greatest accomplishment to see something you've created do such amazing things.

I feel the most overwhelming love when I look at that Sweet little girl.

♥