National Cookie Day

Today is National Cookie Day!

How could I not celebrate this holiday?  With 5 kids at home I would be in big trouble ignoring such an important holiday to kids.  Yeah.. it's for the kids.

Today we will be making an old favorite.
(We use lots of peanut butter but any nut butter can be substituted, we are just lucky enough not to suffer from allergies)
Peanut Butter Noodle Cookies (No Bake)
Chocolate Oatmeal Refrigerator Cookies (No Bake)
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
Italian Pastry cookies (Hubby's 94 yr old Grandma's recipe)
I want Snickerdoodles but only because I have the patience to wait the hours while the dough rests.

What cookie is your favorite?

World AIDS Day

Today is dedicated to spreading awareness about the spread of AIDS and HIV.  My hope is that my children will be raising an AIDS free generation. Did you know that with the United States of America's President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) helps provide anti-retro viral medicines for over 5.1 million people worldwide?  
To put an end to AIDS and HIV we need to work together as a whole across all humanity.  

Please do your part to help leave a better world for our children.  I'm doing my part to leave better children for the World.

Educate yourself!  Get Tested! Always practice safe sex!

I remember my first time hearing about AIDS and HIV.  I was in 6th grade sitting in the library watching a video.  I was traumatized to learn that the same act that makes a baby could kill you. (over simplified in my childish mind)  I didn't want to even share a seat on the bus with a boy for the next week. The next free day I went back to the library and looked up more. There was still much misinformation at the time it was still very unknown.

30 Days of Thankful (Day 30)

My 30 days of Thankful

Day 30

I am thankful that it is the end of the month.. the end of the week... the end of the school quarter.
One more month to the end of this year as well!
Good bye November and hello to December. I can't wait til my birthday.  Even though nothing huge is planned, I am still looking forward to it. Shocking considering I'm thirty.. ::mumbles:: and some more this year.
I love that Christmas music is everywhere. My wonderful husband will even sing various holiday carols on demand.
Christmas is just around the corner.   With 5 kids that morning is always so fun and exciting. Paper flying everywhere.. screams and shouts of joy. All the new stuff to play with. They are going to lose it when they see what my parents got them for Christmas.  ::whispers::  It's a Nabi 2 for each kid. 

The pressure to hit our achievement goals in school lets off. With 37 % needed in all subject by today.  With 5 kids illness circles the house like carrion scavengers taking one family member down after another.  We sometimes fall behind on lessons, but our school is very understanding. (it's never more than a day or two)

30 Days of Thankful (Day 29)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 29

I'm thankful for quiet nights when all the kids are asleep. Curling up in bed and watching a Hallmark/Lifetime (The Ovary Networks) Christmas movie while drinking either cocoa or a glass of wine. the beverage all depends how the day went.. some days just earn a glass of wine.  I have my DVR set and ready to record the next two week's worth of Hallmark and Lifetime Holiday specials.  I will be treating myself on my birthday with a day or movies.Two more weeks til my birthday and counting!

30 Days of Thankful (Day 28)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 28

I am thankful that I am short enough that my husband needs to do most the holiday decorating.  What?! Let me be thankful for being short before my kids out grow me.  At 13 and 12 the older two are just inches away from being taller than me. That's what I get for mating with a man over 6 ft tall. Only 5% of men over 20 yrs old are taller than 6'2".
After once dating a very short man (stereotypically short with a Napoleon complex )  it was amazing to be with a confident tall man.  He made me feel petite.    One of many reasons he was so easy to fall in love with.

30 Days of Thankful (Day27)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 27

I am thankful for my parents.  They gave me a great example of how to make a marriage succeed throughout many years.  Growing up I was surrounded by friends trying to survive their parents' divorces.  I was the odd man out, my parents were still married to each other and it was their first marriage.  At times admitting that I was looked upon like a freak of nature.

That was why in my wedding vows I wanted the words. "What God has joined together, let no man put asunder."  We vowed before I wedding day that it would be forever.  That no matter what the issue we would work through it. On my wedding day both my husband and I forgot to tell the minister.  When the moment came and the minister said those words we both believed that the other had remembered to tell him.  

I learned from my parents that having a successful marriage didn't mean that you would never fight.  It meant that there were times you would fight but you had to fight fair.  Don't say things in anger that will injure your loved ones soul.  Hurtful words from someone you love injure far deeper than from an enemy.  I was once told by my Monster In Law that in a real true relationship there would never be fights. ::eyeroll::   If you never fight than neither of you care enough about the outcome to want to fight for it. Apathy is not welcome in a  healthy marriage.  (good thing I wiser than to take marriage advice from a two time bitter divorcee)

You must learn to communicate your needs and wants. Unless you are lucky enough to marry a mind reader.

Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad!! 41 years together!

30 Days of Thankful (Day 26)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 26

I am thankful for my sometimes annoying but always entertaining pets.  Mezmo the parrot  is always quick to laugh along with you or sympathize with a groan while you work out. Then Priscilla and Rutherford the bunnies are always eager for petting and will even give Eskimo kisses.  Beetle (the German Burrito) may not fully trust the little kids (and their pinchy hands) but he loves our oldest kids so much that he cried every night they were gone to Disneyland. Lacie the Pug loves everyone, including the toddlers who like to yell and chase.

30 Days of Thankful (Day 25)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 25

I am thankful for those days when I wake up 2 hours before everyone else.  I used to look at those days as my "I must be crazy" day.  Who in their right mind gets up earlier than they absolutely have to?  I now know.. Mom's that want to enjoy some silence do.

Some days I use that time for yoga or meditation.  Most days I use it to read emails and check with my business.

I love that time of day when I can get myself fully dressed without interruption.  No one asking where their pants are or can i find them a certain pair of socks.

Sitting in front of our mismatched sock basket I feel like I am staring into the River Lethe.  Why am I here?  Was it socks for myself.. the baby...Is that my t-shirt.. I like this shirt.  Why was I at the sock basket again?  It could be an issue with my selective attention span.  I'll sit an read a book for hours if left alone.  (I read The Hunger Games Trilogy over Mother's Day) Leaving me to stare into that sock basket.. and I can barely focus long enough to find 2 pairs.

30 Days of Thankful (Day 24)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 23

I am thankful for long weekends spent together as a family.  Painting old coffee cans. Watching holiday movies cuddled up on the couch.  Baking holiday treats together and drinking hot cocoa.

Kissed by Chocolate                             

Our favorite treat is popcorn on the stove stop. Just a little oil and some popcorn kernels in a large pot with a lid. I use a glass lid because you can see it pop.  Then you let it heat up and keep the popcorn moving once the first kernel pops.
When it is done I prefer tossing the popcorn in melted chocolate. Just a little bit... only enough to lightly coat the popcorn like butter. Velata Fondue's Belgian chocolate is perfect for this.. it even has a pour spout on the chocolate pouch! You can order it from my Website.   My kids named the treat Kissed by Chocolate.
Instead of chocolate you can melt a little butter and add seasonings to it from spicy cayenne to cinnamon sugar.

Long weekends always rejuvenate me more because I feel like I had more time for family.  I didn't spend my entire weekend cooking and cleaning. I can't imagine trying to do half the things I do with my kids while having a full time job outside the home.  These long weekends make me thankful I am a Stay at Home Mom.      

30 Days of Thankful (Day 23)

My 30 days of Thankful

Day 23

I am thankful that neither my husband or I are Black Friday addicts.  We enjoy sleep much more than stuff.  After all the cooking Thanksgiving I don't think I could walk around a store or even stand in a line.

I'M ALL IN!

As a Scentsy Family Independent Consultant I am ALL IN!

Now I have 3 ways all in one company to party for my job.  There is nothing like hanging out with friends and sharing with them awesome things that they would want after seeing you enjoying it.  

What does that mean?  It means I love and sell every brand that Scentsy Family has to offer.  From my original love of Scentsy Fragrance to Velata Fun Fondue and now Grace Adele Style!

Scentsy Fragrance

With new plug-ins to match beautiful Full-size warmers Scentsy Fragrance is growing to meet your scented needs. The expansion of the Layers collection has added many of your favorite trusted Scentsy scents in personal fragrance.  From Route 66 Solid Perfume to Sun-kissed Citrus Bath Tablets and even including the White Tea and Cactus Shower Cream.  As an Independent Scentsy consultant I can help you with all your Home and Personal Scent needs.  

 Ask me about the recent addition of Sincerely Scent, you now can have personalized cards created with your choice of Scentsy Favorites Collection scent and mailed to your recipient all without you having to visit a post office.  You can even schedule delivery up to 364 days ahead!  Card created and mailed all from the comfort of home.  Never forget to mail a card again!

Velata Fondue

Velata Fun Fondue is delicious Belgian Chocolate in an innovative electric warmer.  Paired with a specially designed silicone dish and adjustable temperature, there is no need to constantly stir this chocolate.  Gently warmed by light bulb the chocolate doesn't scorch and will hold at a deliciously dippable consistency for hours. 

The high-quality Belgian chocolate comes in an easy to use pour-able pouch.  Melt your chocolate and use what you like.  Reseal the pouch and store in the fridge for your next chocolate fix.  (Drizzled over popcorn and tossed like butter is my favorite way to use the chocolate when not dipping with it.)
I love to buy multi-packs of this and treat my friends.  Even a few long distance friend have enjoyed receiving a pouch of this chocolate in the mail.



Grace Adele

Grace Adele is style made simple. You are given the ability to finally be able to easily change your look to remain versatile yet stylish all without breaking the bank on numerous purses. With the Grace Adele style system you can interchange multiple clutches with one purse to change the look of your purse.  With clip ons and many other accessories you are able to style your purse or yourself so you can create an entire look. I love to visit the Build Me a Look page to build a Grace Adele style look.
I have virtually built so many bags and styles.  My husband knows exactly what to buy me for my birthday and Christmas.   In 5 steps you can have an entire stylish interchangeable look to dress up style as much or little as you choose without costing you an arm.  

Can you find me one woman that doesn't enjoy chocolate, scented products or fashion?  

All links above link directly to my Independent Scentsy Family Consultant websites.
For the links to the company pages go here
Scentsy
Velata
Grace Adele

30 Days of Thankful (Day 22) Happy Thanksgiving!

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 22

I am thankful that I get to spend Thanksgiving with my family.  My husband does not have to work.  My kids have no schooling.  Everyone is healthy and home together.  There are many families that are separated during the holidays. From families going through deployments, hospitalizations and shared custody of children; there are many families that are not as lucky as I.  I am very grateful for the time I have with my family.  I know that one day each of my children will grow up and make their own families.  One day they will want to do their own Thanksgiving Dinner in their own home.  I hope they will be able to accept that they are growing up graciously and be willing to back away so they can spread their wings to soar.

30 Day of Thankful (Day 21)

My 30 days of Thankful

Day 21

I am thankful for my Culinary Arts training.  It makes preparation for big holiday meals less stressful.  Proper preparation can prevent you from panicking the day of.  Make any fillings the day before. Chop any vegetables. (minus onions as they absorb bacteria too fast once cut)  Plan when you need to get each dish in the oven.  Pre-steam veggies earlier in the day, then put in an ice bath to stop the cooking.  Finish them in the oven after the turkey comes out. (while the turkey rests before carving. At least 30 minutes)

30 Days of Thankful (Day20)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 20

I am thankful that teething is only a stage and will be over eventually.  Magnus goes from a sweet cuddly happy baby that is easy to go down to nap and morphs into a screaming biting rabid animal that doesn't sleep when teething.  I am grateful I have the experience to know that this is a very short lived time in our lives.  I just need to stay sane and breathe.    

30 Days of Thankful (Day19)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 19

I am thankful for my breastfeeding journey.  It was not an easy road.  Starting with abusive doctors and nurses in a NICU to tongue tie and thrush.  Today marks 14 months of breastfeeding Magnus.  He is a very chunky happy baby. Ok.. toddler.. but he's still my baby.  Breastfeeding is not easy but it is rewarding.

My best tip. Get a scale that measures ounces as well as pounds. Watch with pride as the ounces and pounds pile onto your little baby from the milk your body produces.  Don't give up find a support system.  Go to a lactation support group, visit a lacatation consultant. (some insurances even cover it)

30 Days of Thankful (Day 18)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 18

I am thankful for getting to sleep in until 8 AM.  With 5 kids that is unheard of.  Waking up at 8 AM (and not to screams or fighting) feels like you rode a unicorn out of your bedroom.  The rest of the day can be nothing but magical.  No work, no school just sleeping off staying up WAY too late with my husband.

30 Days of Thankful (Day17)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 18

I am thankful for my Scentsy customers.  I don't hunt you down and spam you with message to hit sales goals.  When in need of a scent they always ask my opinion based on my knowledge of their likes, previous purchases and the current catalog.  My customers understand that I am a mom first and a business woman second.  I'll take a phone call at any hour of the day or night but I can't guarantee it wont be interrupted by one of my kids who just had to show me their new interpretive dance.  Thank you for choosing me to be your Scensty Family Independent Consultant.  I aim for 100% satisfaction and I love to hear when you are thrilled with your products.  

30 Days of Thankful (Day 16)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 16

I am thankful for my son Maxx.  He never fails to make me laugh with antics every day.  It always makes up for those moments when his daring feats are sure to add another streak of grey in my hair.  He was a smiley happy baby from the start.  Curious by nature he can climb like a monkey up into our pantry to reach things on the top shelf that I struggle to reach myself.
He is 4 months shy of turning 3 and is well on his way to being fully potty trained.   He will take himself to the bathroom without being asked more times than not.  We just have to work on him being fully clothed again with potty training.  I'll take the success of him being a nudist over having to change one more stinky diaper.

Maxx fell in love with the Nabi 2 that my parents brought over and has shown a great aptitude for learning.  In fact he learned how to add extras on to his games before I caught on to the charges on our card and blocked his Internet access. He will sit for hours and play with the virtual puzzles.

Even though he is quick to tell you "I hate you!" when you make him made.  He is just as quick to give you a hug and tell you. "I'm sorry, thank you or I love you!"

Live Reindeer cam

Your kids can watch Santa feed his reindeer at 11 AM 6 PM and 9 PM EST starting today! Visit the live feed at ~> Live Reindeer Cam   The live feed it always on but you wont want to miss their special visits from Santa.  I can't wait to see my kids' faces when they spot Santa feeding his reindeer.  Santa will be feeding his reindeer everyday from November 16th to December 24th.  You have plenty of time to catch him. There is also a Reindeer Cam App to watch the reindeer on the go.  Visit the Live Reindeer Cam website for more information.

30 Days of Thankful (Day15)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 15

I am Thankful for the support of my husband in my decision to cloth diaper.  Even though it took until we had baby #5 to finally make the switch it's better late than never.  We have now been cloth diapering for a full year.   I thank cloth diapers for Maxx being interested in potty training so much earlier than the mothering horror stories let on about boys.  He is almost fully potty trained. Just need to get him over needing to be naked non stop.. Naked = no accidents.. throw a pair of pants on him and it's a soggy mess.  One small victory at a time.

Cloth diapering does take a little more work. More of the dreaded laundry to do.  The bonuses far out weigh the negatives.  No more midnight runs to the store.  Just start your diaper laundry sooner.  Sure there have been a few times I didn't realize we were out of diapers until it was too late.  ::panic::  My boys were more than happy to run around naked (thank you easily cleaned tile floors)

The huge break on our pocket book has been the biggest blessing.  That one winning point is what had my husband wishing we had done this sooner.  Gone are the days of spending $60-$80 a month on diaper.  I invested that in my entire stash. (Thank you for a local cloth diaper co-op getting me great deals on diapers)

Yes, it is messy to deal with poo, but with diaper sprayers and a good diaper pail set up it can be made a lot easier.  Did you know that you are supposed to dump the poo from a disposable diaper too?  Read your packaging.. that was a surprise to me.

30 Days of Thankful (Day14)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 14

I am thankful for youngest daughter, Nadia.  She is often the odd man out because her older sisters are 6+ years older and younger brother is 4+ years younger.  Even though she may not be included in every game she finds some way to include others. Like when she lets her brothers help her dress up a barbie doll even though they may be more interested in chewing on her feet and hiding the shoes to torment their big sister.  Nadia is always quick to hug and forgive.  Maxx's new favorite thing to tell her is "I hate you", when he does not get his way.  She just laughs it off and tells him, "Well, I love you brother!".
Being the middle child in our big boisterous household cannot be easy.  She takes everything in stride and does not let herself get lost in the mix of day to day bustle.

She was my first easy going happy baby.  A true blessing because I ended up suffering from Postpartum Depression.  My marriage had suffered because my husband did not understand why there was such a difference with this post baby recovery from the others.  Her smiling happy face is what helped me face my day.  She would wake early and with a bright smile on her face.  It helped me to see the world through her eyes and in a more positive perspective.

30 Days of Thankful (Day 13)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 13

I am thankful that when my husband's scooter broke down this weekend it was not the entire clutch burning out like he sourly thought. Instead of this much more expensive repair, I am grateful that it was only the drive belt.  It is our sole transportation for him to and from work. (other than bicycles)  Yes, you read that right.. We do NOT own a car.  It is one of the luxuries we gave up so that I could be a stay at home mom to our kids full time.

It has not been easy.  There has been a few incidences where my family has given us a ride in emergencies.  Like Nadia's head injury thanks to her two older rougher big sisters.  I could have called an ambulance and thanks to our awesome insurance gotten her a free ride to the hospital but it was not that kind of emergency.

There are also less drastic situations like when my family celebrates Thanksgiving out at my sister's house out in the middle of no where.  I would gladly stay home and cook but in the past they bullied until I let someone drive us all out there.  This year we are staying home.  ::excited::

30 Days of Thankful (Day12)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 12
(a day late thanks to spending it enjoying my husband for another full day)

I am thankful for my husband's job.  Although no glamorous, it makes is so he is able to spend holidays with us and be paid for them no less.  He may dreadfully count the minutes until he has to work but it provides us with insurance for our very large accident prone tribe of  disaster prone little people.
He has done some of the crappiest jobs I could imagine to provide for us.  From being a fry cook at McDonald's to stacking bricks at a Tennessee brick factory in humidity/temperatures so high and conditions so unsafe that OSHA inspectors practically had their own parking spot.

30 Day of Thankful (Day11)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 11

I am thankful for being born an American citizen.  Thankful that I enjoy many freedoms that I try hard not to take for granted in my everyday life.  From being able to vote for our leaders and laws to my freedom of speech.

I am eternally grateful to the many men and women in military service so I could have the many freedoms I enjoy today. Thank you to our approximately 23.2 million Veterans! They come from all walks of life to serve and protect our country. They are parents, children, grandparents, neighbors and co-workers.
Thank you!

30 Days of Thankful (Day10)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 10

I'm thankful for my Two oldest daughters.  They are extremely helpful with their younger siblings.  To the point they fight about who gets to do what with their little brothers.  Morgan likes to wake early and cuddle with Magnus after he eats breakfast on the weekends. (letting me capture the parental unicorn and SLEEP IN!)  Lauryn is our night owl and likes to read books to Maxx as he falls asleep.  They even help Nadia get to her learning games websites.

They have both started making dinners without constant supervision as well. It has been a long process for me to learn to trust them in the kitchen.  (I still don't trust them with my chef's knives)  It took me over a year of hovering in the kitchen while directing them every step to get to here.  This Thanksgiving they want to help with more food preparations. I don't think they know what they are in for cooking in the kitchen while I am cooking.  My husband calls me the kitchen Nazi.. and that I make Gordan Ramsey looks like a pansy.

It was a rough few years when Lauryn and Morgan were little with them being so close in age. (15 months apart)  I wouldn't go back and change it at all.  They used to always say that they were best friends.  Then when they started school and made other friends they begun saying, "We are better than best friends... We are sisters!!"

Thank you girls for being helpful, especially during those times when you would rather be a normal lazy self absorbed preteen. Even though you may drive me crazy at times (bickering and fighting) you do make my life much easier.    

30 Days of Thankful (Day 9)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 9

I am thankful for my Scentsy Family business.  It may not support my family.. yet, but one day I will put the effort into it that I want out.  Like actually scheduling parties more than once every few months.  For now it provides me with enough income that I can buy some fun extras for my family.  No more buying a gift for my husband with his own money. Even though we have always said it is OUR money.. I know better.  It feels good to earn money after all these years of being a stay at home mom.

I feel blessed to be able to make my income while still being the stay at home mom that I want.  I love being part of a company that does not require monthly sales quotas to stay active.  I love that my company understands that family comes first.  They have even undertaken the task of improving the health of their consultants.

If you want to learn more about my business please contact me for more information or visit my website.
 

30 Days of Thankful (Day8)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 8

I am Thankful for my health.  Although I carry my weight than I would like. (my own fault)  I am very healthy.  My blood pressure remains surprisingly healthy even though I have an unhealthy habit of worrying about things I have no control over. I am able to play with my children, climb stairs and even drag our monster trailer on my bike with both the boys inside.   Even though asthma sidelined me in my teenage years I have it well under control and have luckily not experienced an attack in a very long time.  (I still remain prepared with an unexpired rescue inhaler)

Tonight I add into my prayers those mothers that are unable to play with their children due to health reasons. May the next year bring improvements so their life my feel as full as my own.

30 Days of Thankful (Day7)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 7
I am thankful for my husband, my best friend, and soul mate.  Who would have guessed that I would meet the other half to my heart in my driveway and when I was only 16.
We have been married for 14 years as of today.  He proposed to me so many times I lost count of the ways and number of times.  It is almost like he was afraid I had changed my mind.

One of the times he proposed to me was at my Junior Prom.  It was held at the MGM Grand Theme Park. (Weird.. I know but not as weird as my Senior Prom at Hammagren's Mansion) We were standing around talking to my friends and he had the whole group laughing. (as he always does)  When we both noticed they had fake wedding ceremonies going on. (officiated by the teachers that were chaperoning the dance)  I  rolled my eyes as I laughed at one of the girls physically dragging her date to the line.  A minute or so later he gets down on his knee and start professing his love to me.  My friends start gushing with "aww how sweet" and "OMG".  Flustered that everyone was now looking at us I told him, "Yes, Yes.. OK! Just get up! Lets go get in line for the fake weddings."  He stood up and gave me a kiss.  As he led me to the line he says to me, "This will have to do... for now."

We were best friends long before we were ever love interests and our friendship bloomed into much more.  I am happy to spend the rest of my life with my best friend.  I'll fight for him even when I'm angry with him. He's my addiction. I can't get enough of being with him. I miss him even when he is gone to work. We've been together for over 16 years and I've fallen deeper in love every day.

Thank you for 14 wonderful years, I look forward to the next 14 and many more.

30 Days of Thankful (Day6)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 6

I am thankful for an amazing group of friends.  Even though we have never met in person, they have kept me from running screaming right off the crazy cliff into a sea of nuttiness.
I met them in an online mother's forum during my pregnancy with Maxx (now 2 yrs old)  We have been through illnesses, losses and betrayals together. They have supported me in weight loss and commiserated with me when I needed a friend to bitch fest with. We have encouraged each other's business beginnings and been each other's greatest supporters.
15 years ago I never would have thought that my closest friends would be a group of women on the internet that I talk with everyday. (other than my best friend, my husband)  
You know who you are.  I love you ladies!!  Stay crazy and lets keep the lighter side of life in the face of parenting craziness.

30 Day of Thankful (Day 5)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 5
I am thankful for our home.  We may be only renting, but it is perfect for us at this time in our life. With enough bedrooms for everyone to sleep comfortably and even have one downstairs for our school room.  We are close to my husband work so that his commute is only 10 minutes. (by bicycle)  We have a tiled patio backyard that my kids can actually play in compared to the dirt/rock we have had in the past.  They ride their scooters non-stop when the weather allows it.  The entire downstairs is tiled so messes from my 5 kids are easily cleaned up.

30 Day of Thankful (Day4)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 4
I am thankful that my husband has a job that he gets the weekends off to spend with his family.  Two whole days of not having outside responsibilities. Just recharging and reconnecting together as a family.  Even though we home school and they get to see him before work, it still never feels like enough time. I still feel like we are constantly making up for all the time he missed when they were in public brick and mortar school and only got to see him on weekends.  Our kids are growing so fast and we will never get a second chance at this time again.

30 Days of Thankful (Day3)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 3
I am thankful for the health of my children.  With so many terrifying moments in their lives I am grateful for everyday.  From Morgan and her near death experience when she was barely 3 (that still makes my hands shake when I think about it) to Lauryn being born sleeping and refusing to cry, Nadia's forehead being split open by her sister's, and Magnus spending a week in the NICU after his birth.  My husband jokes that Maxx is saving up his dangerous experiences for when he can turn my whole head grey at once.
I pray every night before bed, every morning when I wake and again any time I am parted from my children.  I pray that they stay safe and healthy.  I am a worrier by nature.. I can't help myself.

Whenever I start to think that my life is too hard or bemoan that my kids have a lingering chest cold, I remind myself that I am lucky.  There are many families facing much worse. (I pray for them everyday)  Their perseverance reminds me to be thankful for my blessing of all 5 of children being healthy.

30 Days of Thankful (Day2)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 2

I am thankful for the opportunity to virtual school my children from home. K-12 online public school has been a blessing for my family.  From rampant bullying, to over crowded classrooms our standard public school was no longer a healthy option for my family

.  

Since starting on our home school journey I have watched Nadia's vocabulary and reading ability excel.  Lauryn has discovered a greater love for Science and a new found love of reading.  Morgan is flying through French lessons and challenging herself in reading that used to be too easy.  

I've been told the work that my children does in virtual school is actually far ahead of what they are currently learning in the local public schools and that reaffirms my choice of virtual school.  It comes with it's own difficulties, but the rewards are so great.  I love watching my children learn and not just from their own lesson but each other's as well.  

Maxx even gets in on lessons.  When learning about rhythm during Nadia's music lesson Maxx begin clapping out the rhythm and chant along with us.  One month later he still chants and claps. (correctly too) 

Day 1

30 Days of Thankful (Day1)

My 30 Days of Thankful

Day 1
I am thankful for the safety of my family.  Even as I pray for those families that were hit by Hurricane Sandy.  I feel guilty even admitting it when so many have lost so much.

This disaster has made me realize I need to do more to protect and prepare my family in case of a disaster.   http://www.ready.gov/
Are you prepared?  Help your kids prepare as well with Flat Stanley.

Subtraction Poem

Teaching subtraction and carrying over can be a nightmare.  Or a simple poem can help your child remember what to do when faced with this Math.  


Subtraction poem

More on top? no need to stop

More on the floor? go next door and get 10 more!

Numbers the same? Zero's the game!

I am faced with teaching my 6 yr old subtraction this coming week. It works well when they are thinking about actual items but once it's numbers alone on a page... I feel like I am speaking Greek to them the first time we go through some subjects.  I am so glad K-12 teaches to Mastery of a subject.  It makes it so I can help them go over it again until they understand.

Maybe we can make some Math facts pumpkins.    

Silhouette Collection

Start your own Silhouette Collection.  Each Glowing Core Warmer set includes a warmer wrap and a simple, porcelain Full-Size Scentsy Warmer that allows light to shine through, highlighting the organic patterns created by its metal wrap.
Then you can expand your collection by purchasing additional warmer wraps individually.
One Silhouette wrap included with the purchase of warmer.  Wraps designed to fit over Silhouette Collection warmer only.
Individual wraps available separately.  Warmer may not be purchased separately.
Silhouette Collection

Holiday Wraps have been restocked!  Order now before they are sold out again!!
Holiday Silhouette Collection

I love my Silhouette warmer with Linden wrap.  The Linden wrap reminds me of my childhood and laying under a huge tree and watching the light filter through the leaves and branches.  With the addition of the Holiday wrap (limited time only)  I can change my decor without having to change my warmer!

Fell off it again..

I fell off the healthy wagon again..  right into a big pile of mini chocolate cream pies and cookies.  With a month of virtual school under our belt you would think I was in a schedule that would leave some time for me.  This is so far from the truth.

There have been nights I fall into bed struggling to stay awake long enough to have a conversation about our day with my husband.   Sure, I could get up extra early in the morning and sneak in my own workout, but with a huge sleep debt it's a mountain I choose not to climb every morning.  Bad choice.. I know.
How do I get myself out of this chunky rut I am digging for myself?   Stuffing my face with sweets and not working them off.. not even attempting to.  With Magnus now a year old I can no longer call the extra baggage baby weight.. unless it's a food baby I'm talking about.

Even though I am over being sick with a nasty case of Sinusitis paired with the lovely ear aches to keep you awake all night, I will be honest and say my bike hasn't left the garage in months.

Time to make a health promise to myself.  No more 380 calorie mini pies. They are really not as good as pictured and you would rather wear your goal jeans again.  No more snacking after 7pm, because those snack are never a healthy choice.  If I feel hungry between meals I'm going to try drinking water first.

Lingering sickness

This has been a miserable two weeks for me.  It started with outbreak monkeys coming back from Outbreakland with their own special illness.  It didn't take long er for it to circle the house.  The kids all got over their colds within 2-3 days.  My husband claims to still have his cold. ::eyeroll::  Don't get me wrong.. I love him but when you can take medicine and don't... then whine about not feeling good, I could spork you in the eye...  I am still currently breastfeeding with no plans to stop anytime soon, so my options on medicine are greatly limited.

It's no surprise(to me) that my illness progressed beyond the nasty sounding cough into full blown Sinusitis, with loss of taste, smell and even hearing.  I was ok with this.. until the earache made me wish to trade the cold for unmedicated child birth of a porcupine.  After a night of less than 2 hours of sleep total I was beyond angry at the world.  When you find yourself visualizing donkey kicking your sleeping spouse out of bed because they are sleeping peacefully, time to get yourself to doctor.

I can't be sick.. who will do the virtual schooling.  Not my husband.. he is still acting like he's dying ::fake cough::  This has been the one HUGE drawback to homeschool.  When I get sick there is no shipping them off to school as I lay around in my pj's and nap on and off til they get home. (as if that is possible with the destructive duo anyway)

I have been begging for a nap for the last week.  As I type this my husband lays napping ::holds spork menacingly::  Another annoyance is he smokes... You lose all privledges to whine about a cough when you smoke... sorry but you do that to yourself jackass.  I have no sympathy for smokers.. sorry I didn't marry him as a smoker and hate that he became one.  Feels like a bait and switch.. bastard.

So for those men out there.. SUCK IT UP!  Don't expect better care when you are sick than you give when you spouse is sick.  Thinking about buying tissues when you go to the store for yourself isn't the same as actually buying her tissues.

Make it about family

Eat dinner with your children.
Eating dinner together as a family gives your children a chance to connect with you in both your busy lives.  Tired of getting one word answers when you ask how their day was?  Try asking a new question.  Instead ask what the Worst and Best moments of the day were.  Think about your own day, it wasn't all bad but it wasn't all great either.  It's much easier to come up with a best and worst moment.
You may discover things about your children you never knew.  A love of all things in the stars or a true dislike of playing softball.  They may not thank you for getting to know them but it will make their life more fulfilling.   One day they will appreciate you for you.. it may take them growing up and having kid's of their own, but it will happen.

School is here.. now where is my sanity?

Been missing from here for far too long.

School is back and for an increased challenge this year I am virtual schooling my oldest 3 while trying to prevent the two boys from destroying the house around us.

I came to this decision after too many years of schools that tolerate bullying and punish victims. I finally had enough this last yearand pulled my kids out of a seriously overcrowded school system.  This year the public school increased class size from the already bursting 35+ kids a class by another 3-5 students.  (that is with NO student teachers or assistant teacher.. just one adult with 40 kids)

There have been a few hiccups.  Like my oldest being enrolled in Elementary French rather than Middle school French.   The experiences we have gotten from this are priceless already.  Like Maxx joining Nadia for her music lesson as they chugged around the room like a train to learn the Tempo of music.

I look forward to many more enriching experiences this coming.  I am also realistic enough to know that there will be days I want to lock myself in the bathroom with a a huge unhealthy bag of chocolate, a long novel and a nearly overflowing bath.

What do you do to reward yourself for surviving a trying day?

National Purple Heart Day

August 7 is National Purple Heart Day

This day is in honor of all the brave men and women who have received the Purple Heart.

All Gave Some, Some Gave All.

The Purple Heart is awarded to Military Personnel for being wounded or killed in any action against an enemy ofthe United States or as a result of an act of any such enemy or opposing armed forces.




Thank you for all that you have done.  I enjoy many liberties today due to your sacrifices.

5 kids and a messy parrot defeated! The Hoover TwinTank Steam Mop review

With 5 kids and a very messy parrot I always have a mess to clean in my house. One of those kids is a son who is potty training so you can only imagine the type of messes I have to clean.  ::shudder::  Don't try!  5 kids in all his potty training messes are the least of my problems.  From food fights, to oops I dropped the jelly jar in the middle of the kitchen, to just plain dirty little heathen foot prints across every inch their legs can reach.  You can't forget a bird that shakes her head splattering fruit bits on everything or with her refusal to be potty trained as well, leaving worse things on my floor...  .My floor was in a constant state of horrifying mess.  The one thing I have been grateful for is that the majority of my floors are tiled.  I still look back at the time we lived at our apartment that was carpet in EVERY room... even the bathroom  ::shudder:: my kid's don't mix well with carpeting.  Like shag carpeting and tree sap.

Then the condo we lived at that had wood floors in the main rooms.  This is where I was first introduced to steam mops. Sadly it was as much work to steam with as regular mopping.  In less than 3 months I killed one very popular brand one mop I will leave un-named.  I'd rather not slander.. even if their product was disappointing along with their customer "dis"service.

When I was recently given the opportunity to test and review the Hoover Twin Tank Steam Mop, I was excited.  The day it arrived I wanted to take a picture of it still in the box but my quick charge camera would have taken a whole 15 minutes to charge and my hands were itching to get to steaming.

It has two easy fill tanks that keep the specially formulated Hoover SteamPlus Cleaning Solution separate from the water, so you control the amount of solution used with a quick turn of the dial.  No more waiting for the machine to build up steam either.  It was ready to clean in less than 10 seconds at the push of button. There is even a steam ready LED light to alert you when it's time to clean. This Steam mop is perfect for busy moms like me!  I have better things to do than wait around for my cleaning machine to be ready.  The TwinTank Steam Mop comes equipped with a on-demand steam trigger, so you can boost your steam power where you need it.  With a 30 foot power cord so I can clean farther without constantly swapping outlets it saves my sanity.  The intelligently designed triangle mop head gets under my kitchen cabinets easily, against the baseboards and even around the toilet. There is nothing I do not love about this machine!!

The machine came with an 8oz bottle of Hoover 2X SteamPlus Cleaning Solution, 3 Microfiber Triangle Pads( so you always have one ready to clean with), Cooling Tray (to protect your floors during storage and cooling), and a Carpet Glider(to refresh carpets).  

My personal experience with the Hoover TwinTank Steam Mop was amazing. When we moved into our house there were many old gum spots.  I tried scraping but they were so old they didn't budge.  With just a few seconds of steam shot from this amazing machine with the trigger activated steam, all the ancient gum was very tacky and easily cleaned.  I was delighted to be able to steam clean the entire downstairs in less than 30 minutes.  The only drawback was no need to kick my kids out of the house because it left the floor dry within minutes. Ok, that's not a real drawback, but it's the only one I could come up with.

To sum up.. If I hadn't gotten this as a review opportunity I would be begging my husband to buy it for me.

I received a sample of this product to facilitate my review, but my opinions are entirely my own.

K-5 Learning Review and Blogging Opportunity

With all 5 of my kids off for Summer break I was very grateful for the chance to review K-5 Learning.  The oldest two have been using Summer to read through the Hunger Games.  That leaves the 6 yr old in need of something educational to do.  No TV Zombies allowed in this house.

K5 Learning to the rescue!!  

K5 Learning is an online reading and math program for children kindergarten through 5th grade.  This program is designed to be used at anytime from after-school, on the weekend, during the summertime to prevent summer brain drain or along side your homeschooling program. The early years are the key to your child's academics.  Numerous studies have shown that children who do not excel in school by grade 3 are unlikely to excel later in school.

K5 Learning is designed to be a practical tool for busy families and it was perfect for my crazy family.  Within the program there is a strong emphasis based on education not on games and entertainment.  (not that it isn't fun.. my daughter had a blast and begged to "play" K5 every chance.)   It was so easy to use even your 4 or 5 year old could work independently and at their own pace. (my 2 year old was begging and pleading.) With no downloads and 24/7 availability your child can access it anytime.   There are no external links, advertisements or chat to keep your child's experience a safe one.

When your child starts the K5 the Math and Reading lessons are set by grade level default.  To get the most of your experience it is highly recommended to take the online assessment in eight key math and reading skills.  The data collected from the assessment is then used to customize the learning program to suit your child's skill individual skill set.  There are over 3,000 online multimedia activities that are personalized to your child based on their assessment . No more worries that they aren't getting the lesson you select for them.  The free online assessment helps to place your child at their appropriate skill level.  My daughter was very strong in geometry but needed more work in phonics.  Due to all lessons being catered to her skill level she was never bored from it being to easy or frustrated during a lesson that was too hard.

K5 Math is an award winning math program with over 1,200 research based online tutorials and activities.  My daughter loved that the lesson used animated character in real world scenarios.  It helped to build a connection between math and her own personal experiences.  I was surprised to find out that my recent kindergarten graduate was actually at a 2nd grade math level.

K5 Math Facts helps your student develop instant recall of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division facts.  Did you know that the average 5th grader only knows 32% of their multiplication tables!  Instead of learning higher order math skills those students that don't know their math facts will spend their time on basic computations.  Math Fact Matrix displays your student's progress on every single math facts.  Mastery is obtained when the whole matrix is green.  (great visual of accomplishment for your child to see) You can even adjust the time needed to enter the answer for those that are not as quick with the keys.  My daughter enjoyed watching the matrix fill out with each pass through her facts.

K5 Reading program is comprised of over 1,500 online tutorials and activities.  This award winning program is based on the instructional guidelines of the National Reading Panel as well as the best practices employed by teachers and reading specialists.  The K5 Reading program is in use by thousands of US students from kindergarten to grade 5 covering 5 key curriculum skill areas: phonemic awareness, phonics, sight words, vocabulary and reading comprehension.
The reading lessons are all interactive and animated with fun "role model" characters.  With each lesson broken into multiple 5 minute segments with an interactive tutorial, one or more practice segments and finally a quiz.  These short study sessions keep the learning fast and fun.  My daughter's reading went from a subject she struggled with and hated to a something she would beg to do more of.

K5 Spelling helps improve your child's language skills one word at a time.  With immediate feedback on each word spelled.  Correct spelling receives applause and misspellings receive hints on the way to correct their mistake.  You child will always spell the word correctly before moving to the next.  There is automatic word generation (from their 150,000 word database) based on your child's grade level, past quizzes and specific goals.  Any words that were in the past they are repeated in future quizzes until spelled correctly multiple times. Unlike many websites K5 never displays a misspelled word to help imprint the proper spelling in their mind.  Multiple clues to a word are given to help your child absorb the full meaning of the word before trying to spell it, from sound files, sample sentences, definitions and pictures.

It's not just about kid's learning there are great features for parents as well like the online progress reports and ability to set assignments for your child.  Parents can access many online progress reports, quiz results, spelling words learned and progress made on math facts.  Stay up to date on your child's progress and you can watch them excel. As a parent you can also choose from any of the K5 reading and math lessons to assign to your child, as well as spelling words to be studied.  The assignment feature really helped boost my daughter's phonics, which she was struggling with initially because it is no longer taught in our local school district.  I was able to assign more core lessons in phonics

K5 is available on a subscription basis for $199/year or $25/month with great discounts for siblings. Your subscription includes free assessments and unlimited use in each of the four K5 learning programs. You can also get a 14 day free trial!
Contact K5 yourself and get your child on the path to excel.


Website: http://www.k5learning.com
Blog: http://www.k5learning.com/blog
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/k5learning
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/k5learning

Online reading and math enrichment program for kids - | K5 Learning  Let them know I sent you!

I was given the opportunity to review this learning program free of charge for a 6 week free trial for my honest review about our experience with this learning program.   

If you are blogger, you may want to contact K5 Learning open invitation to begin your own review opportunity. http://www.k5learning.com/review-k5

Light it Up at Scentsy Convention 2012

I am so excited to be going to Scentsy Family Convention 2012.  If you follow me on Twitter you would have already heard the buzz.

Las Vegas Hilton

As an Independent Scentsy Consultant I will be attending my first convention July 25th-27th.  Luckily this year it is in fabulous Las Vegas.  Hooray for a stay-cation!  Even  Las Vegas has dressed up for the occasion.

The Convention Center

I can't wait!! Mommy gets a few days off! 
::guilty::  Ok so not too guilty now that little man is teething.  Daddy will be fully stocked with teething tablets and plenty of frozen breast milk.  Even though Scentsy Family is supportive of Breastfeeding mothers and will be providing cry rooms with monitors so you don't miss anything if you want to breastfeed in privacy and comfort. I will not be taking Magnus at just over 10 months old he is VERY active.  Being my first convention I didn't want to spend hours wrestling him and not be able to take notes on ways to boost my business to greater heights.  Sorry, Magnus.. you are stuck with Daddy.

Those 3 days are going to be filled with motivational speakers, new product reveals and even a whole new brand being released.   The first night alone there will be 3 different parties that you can attend.
The Scentsy Ultra Lounge ~ Lights music and dancing the perfect party.
Viva Las Vegas ~ Travel back to classic Las Vegas and party with the King of Rock 'n Roll.
Cirque De Scentsy ~ Amazing acrobats will wow you with their flipping, jumping, spinning and swinging.

I plan on checking in early on the first day to give me plenty of time to browse through the convention floor.  Complete with Scent room, where I will get to smell scents and vote for my favorites!!  There is so much it is hard to pick one thing I am excited about.  From product reveals (new products for the coming catalog), to the final reveal of Brand X (Scentsy Family's new brand to be released in the Fall)
Colbie Caillat will be performing at an exclusive concert, as well as other mystery entertainment.  It's not all fun and games there will be motivation, inspiration and training speakers there to help bring our business to new heights.  
I'm most excited to hear from Carrier Wilkerson, known as the Barefoot Executive.    I am looking forward to her helpful advice and examples on how to keep a healthy balance between family and work, while making my business flourish.

Scentsy for all Seasons

Being a Scentsy addict, I own multiple warmers that I change out throughout the seasons.  Depending on the time of year or holiday you visit my house in you will see different Scentsy Warmers on display.  When not in use they are in my China hutch which is slowly having more Scentsy Warmers than China on display.

<~ This Cupcake Mid-size is on display multiple times throughout the year for all the many birthday's in my family.

This Cherry Blossom warmer reminds me of the first true days of spring as all the trees bloom and festivals across the world are held in honor of this beautiful tree.  I didn't get to keep this warmer as my Mom fell in love and bought it from me before I could find a place for it in my own home. ~>

<~ This patriotic Star Spangled warmer is out for the Fourth of July.  With stars that look like the are ribbons sewn onto the warmer as if it were a real flag. 

In honor of all the many BBQ's we have from Spring into Fall, we put out our very first warmer we ever bought.  Tiki looks very cool with the holes placed for eyes, bringing the Tiki's face to life. ~>

My favorite season is Fall with the prevailing scent of cinnamon and wood smoke in the air.  My full-size Jack O' Lantern is out with matching plug-in.

Finally for our Winter display my husband bought me Blizzard with beautiful snowflake cut-outs for my birthday.  In all white it reminds me of snow days growing up.

Visit my website for more information on adding some beautiful Scentsy Warmers to your home.  Host a qualifying party and you could earn half priced items and even product credits.  Too impatient to wait for a party?  You can Buy directly from my website.  Want to earn money partying?  Join my team today and you join a direct sales industry pioneering company with multiple direct sales company's under one business/compensation plan!   

Fit Moms for Life Giveaway!!

Now it's your turn!

With my recent review of Fit Moms for Life: How to Have Endless Energy to Outplay your Kids.  I had the option to share my own copy of the book with you. Sorry.. I'll admit it. I was too selfish to share my copy.

Great News! You now have a chance to win a book of your own!!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Dustin Maher Fit Moms for Life Review & Giveaway

I recently was given the pleasure to review the book by Dustin Maher Fit Moms for Life: How to Have Endless Energy to Outplay your Kids.  I will be brutally honest, at first I wondered how a book could help me become fit.  Little did I know the enormous amount of support Dustin offers and not just for those that buy his books and DVD's.  The book was just one helpful part of a much greater collective of support.

Dustin has a goal to help 1,000,000 mothers get into the best shape of their lives.   He knows to help a mom become fit you help a family to become fit.   As a mom we often forget to take care of ourselves.  Eating unhealthy foods on the run, not taking the time to exercise or treat ourselves.  Our children watch this and in turn emulate the same behaviors creating a vicious unhealthy cycle.  This is how a family's fitness and health starts with mom.

Cutting through the hype Fit Moms for Life chronicles 31 mothers' personal weight loss and fitness transformations including before and after photos. Dustin guides his readers through the 5 pillars of fitness: Mindset, Nutrition, Strength Training, Burst Training, and Environment.  With the ultimate goal being Staying Fit for Life.  You are armed with solid exercises, tips to lose weight and to keep it off for a lifetime.

With Dustin's encouragement I started making better choices in my diet.  Stopped buying junk foods and instead bought more fruits and vegetables.  I was surprised that my kid's acted like they didn't even notice the change to their snacks.  Maxx at 2 years old now sneaks apples and celery instead of cookies.

The biggest change has been that I now take the time out of my day for me.  Exercising if only for 15-30 minutes a day is better than not at all.  I want to be fit for my family.  I started reading his book "Fit Moms for Life" shortly after having my son.  It't not your average get thin quick plan.  With life stories from real moms, workout moves as well as health tips; this book made me take a hard look at my choices.

As with every exercise program life caught up to me and sent me spinning away from my goal.  I fell into old habits, letting myself get lost in the hustle and bustle of day to day parenting.  Thanks to Dustin's wonderful community of support I didn't stay lost.  With weekly encouraging emails, I was cheered on and excouraged to to take the time for me.  Remind myself that I am important, my healthy example is important to more than me.






Since receiving his book I have lost almost 30lbs.  It has been 6 months, but give me a break we moved only 2 months after I got the book. I'm a mommy blogger not a professional.. I don't get paid for this.  No you don't rub it on your body and get results.  I made the diet changes and added his workouts.  I will admit to chickening out of one of his many challenges, but I'll get there.  This is not a diet, it is a life change.  I have just started on my journey.

Now it's your turn to make a difference, be the change!  At the very least join The Fit Moms for Life community  (It's FREE)  It's the place where Dustin cuts through all the hype giving eating, exercising and health advice in a fast, fun and effective way that can fit into the busy life of any mom.  As a mom of 5 kids, he has really made a difference in my desire to workout.  Before, If I didn't feel like exercising or eating healthy I rationalized that it was just me I was hurting.  Now I know that isn't true.  By working out and eating healthy I am providing my kids with the proper role model into a healthy lifestyle.

His huge community of support is how I know that Dustin in in this to make a healthier future for Mom's and their families. Join Fit Moms for life on Facebook, Twitter, or in his larger community for all things to become healthier mom, I Love Being a Mom.

I was given a book to try in return for my opinion on this program but in no way is my opinion not my own.

You can win your own copy of Fit Moms for Life: How to Have Endless Energy to Outplay your Kids  ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

Free Printable Phonics Worksheets

To help prevent summer brain drain in my recent Kindergarten graduate I have been hunting up great sites for printable worksheets.  Although I prefer my kids to study on the computer to save paper and ink, it is not always possible.  At least until I get my own tablet.  Nadia really needs to practice her handwriting or else she may end up with my horribly illegible scrawl.
Free Printable Phonics Worksheets:

K5 Learning ~ Blogger Review Opportunity

K5 Learning has an online reading and math program for kindergarten to grade 5 students.  I've been given a 6 week free trial to test and write a review of their program.  If you are a blogger, you may want to check out their open invitation to write an online learning review of their program.


With summer here, I am very excited for this opportunity.  Look for my honest review of this website in 6 weeks time.     

A Kindle is on my Wishlist

I always known I loved books, I just never realized how much of a voracious reader I am.  In our most recent move I had over 400 books that were just mine.  This wouldn't be a problem if I could re-read them again. Once I have read a book it is hard for me to pick it back up and not remember the entire plot.  ::sigh:: Some days I forget what an oven is called but I can still remember the entire plot to over 400 books.  Selective memory.  I don't need to remember what an oven is called to use it every day.

My mom recently let me borrow her Kindle to read the Hunger Games Trilogy. (I finished all 3 on Mother's Day)  After I was finished reading it myself, I started the books over and read them with my husband.  It became our time together everyday to reconnect and talk.  It works this way:  I read the book, he listens and then we discuss it together.  This is not the first book we have done this with, but it has been a long time since we have read together.  We didn't notice how much we missed doing this until we started it up again and missed a day or two of reading.

While reading the trilogy with my husband I read other books as well.  In the almost 3 weeks I have had the Kindle I have read at least 34 books.(these are just the ones I have downloaded to my Mom's Kindle)  Most days I am reading more than one book at a time.  Between the two I read for my own personal enjoyment, the one I read with my husband and the current chapter book I am reading with my older kids; I am usually reading around 4-6 books a day.

Morgan is just like me.  She loves to read.  In fact, she has one of the highest Accelerated Reading scores in her school. (they get points for reading books.. where was this when I was in school?) She recently complained that she rarely gets time to read on the Kindle.  I use it as a reward not only for myself but for the older girls when household chores get done.  (one of many rewards they get to choose from; computer time, movies, kindle, crafts and more)  I pointedly asked Morgan how many books she reads in a month.  She held up her slim chapter novel (less than 200 pages) and defiantly said I am almost done with this book, I started it only this morning.  I couldn't hold in my chuckle when she asked me how many books I read.  I let them guess, none got even close.  When I told them how many, Morgan doubted I read them and I told her the plot when she named off different titles.

Where do I get all my books from?  I don't pay for them that's for sure!  Amazon has a list of top 100 books.  They also have a list of top 100 FREE books.  This is not all the free books just the top one hundred.  My search for free books started at Pixel of Ink and snowballed from there.  After almost giving my dad a heart attack when he saw the HUGE amount of books I downloaded. lol Sorry Dad. I let quickly reassured my parents they were all free. I don't need to pay for books when there are so many awesome books that are offered free all the time.  Check back on Amazon often, the free books change all the time.

Do you have a favorite E-reader?  I'm trying to save up for one of my own so I can stop harassing my parents with my constant emails of free book download notifications from Amazon. lol

Bring Back my Bars July 2012 list has been announced!

Scentsy Family has finally announced the list of the 20 limited release scents.  These previously retired scents were voted back for the month of July only with millions of vote.  With so many to choose from it was tough to narrow down my vote for just 3.  Luckily they allowed multiple votes.  Is one of your favorites on the list?

These Scents will only be available for purchase in July 1st-31st 2012.  Limited release and for a very short time.  July 1st can't come soon enough for me. I used the last cubes of my remaining Cutiepie Cupcake during Morgan's birthday party.  (she requested the scent)

Easy Peasy Cornbread

This is my Easy Peasy Cornbread recipe.  If you can find an easier version you are a Saint.  My kid's love this with the little niblets of corn.  I love the sweetness without being too sweet.  I prefer to bake mine in cupcake tins, it makes for a delicious crunchy exterior and a moist interior.


Ingredients:
1 Box of Jiffy Cornbread
1/2 Can of Creamed Corn
Seriously that's it

1. Preheat oven according to box.  
2. Mix ingredients together in a bowl.  
3. Prepare pans to prevent sticking. I prefer Baker's Ease cooking spray. ~~~>
4. Pour batter into prepared pans. 
5. Bake according to directions on box.  (baking times may vary) Remove when it springs back at your touch.

I hope you enjoy them as much as my family does.

Thirsties Duo review

Let me just say. I love this diaper!
I won it from a a giveaway on a another blog. I am a giveaway addict but that's a whole different post.  I picked the larger size in blue so both my boys would be able to use it.

I love the double openings so there no reaching into a dirty pocket to remove your inserts. It comes out during the wash.  The one thing I don't like is the Aplix. (velcro)  That's a personal preference though.  I prefer snaps mainly because my resident streaker can't remove the diaper at will.  With all the girls in the house there is always a serious amount of hair collected on the tabs even though they were secured in the wash. (it's the one major drawback with aplix closures for me.

The fact that both my sons can wear it due to it's rise snaps is a huge bonus for me.  Even though cloth diapers have an excellent resale value, it's nice not worrying about which  diaper I am grabbing in the middle of the night for a quick change.  They all fit right.
It's not the cutest print in my collection but it is the workhorse of my diaper stash.  I've never had a blowout or leak in this diaper. That is enough to make me want more of these awesome diapers. Hubby's displeasure with my ever expanding diaper addiction is the only thing holding me back.  Good thing I work co-ops and giveaways like a part-time job.  He can't complain if I win the diapers.

Tongue Tied Troubles

Did you know that midwives of centuries past were reported to keep a fingernail sharp to slice the membranes under the tongues of newborn babies.  It was reportedly done to prevent speech impediments.

This blog post on Strollerderby is why I am grateful to my amazing Pediatrician for quickly disgnosing and resolving Magnus' short frenulum.   Baby Magnus had been under the constant care of doctors and nurses for the first few days of his life in the NICU but no one noticed the tongue tie. I wish I could have gotten a picture before it was clipped but it was diagnosed and treated in a matter of minutes.  After a quick touch of the gauze it had stopped bleeding. (never saw another drop)  Magnus latched easily and nursed immediately.  It was like night and day.  There was no struggling at let down.  His latch was no longer painful.

Not all tongue tie are severe enough for most people to even notice.  Like on here on the Booby Whisper

Have you ever had an experience with tongue tie?