Going Peanuts: A Young Mom's Tale

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

Motherhood=Sacrifice

2010-04-06T12:04:00.004-05:00

I love my kids, I love my family, but does having other dreams make me a bad mom?

I thought one of the reason's we were made to be the 'mother' instead of 'father' is because of our ability to multi-task.

Does taking a side job, or side hobby, make us less of a mother?

Does this mean we're neglecting our children?

Motherhood=Sacrifice

It is a give in that when we sign up to become a mother we give up a lot of things.

Tis true that our husbands would most likely rather be golfing or fishing than in a 4x4 office and the mundane task of bringing in the money, but wouldn't we all?

I wouldn't trade motherhood for anything in this world. If anything I am blessed to have the opportunity to stay home with my children and enjoy every waking moment of their developing lives. But should I feel guilty if I decide to take on another activity or task?

I'd like to believe there is a right answer for my questions, but for every mother there is a different way of thinking, mothering, and decision making for their own family.

I'd love to hear everyone's input on this topic, because we are all individuals in our own right, and I love the inspiration I get from all of my followers.

{To a better week}

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

What day is it?

2010-03-30T19:57:00.003-05:00

Ever have one of these moments? Yes, don't lie to yourself. They happen every day, don't they?

It's been another one of those months, and as it draws to a close, I just thank God that a new month is quickly approaching. My toddler is going on ear infection number 3, I'm still suffering from my 2 week strep throat, and luckily Baby boy is over his sickness and just fussy. When will it end?

We're in a rut. And Stuck we are.

Summer is coming, and I've never craved the heat more than I do now. I can't wait to yet again spend the entire summer in a swim suit, drink lots of mint lemonade, and get a tan. Not to mention forget all of my responsibilities of being a housekeeper and be free. Maybe I'm drawing an obscure vision of what our summer is going to be like, but I can only hope that I will just let go and enjoy every second with my little ones.

They're growing up so fast, and every summer they're bigger and doing different things. I can't wait to experience my first summer with my Baby boy and another with my toddler princess.

What are you looking forward to?

Danny the Dragon

2010-03-24T11:02:00.005-05:00

A few weeks ago I was contacted by the personal assistant to Tina Turbin, author of the Danny the Dragon book. She asked me if I would do a review of her book and DVD, in which I accepted.

A little about Tina Turbin, she is a super mom. She is involved in all sorts of areas in the community and in her home. She is actively involved in intense research in children's education, literature, celiac disease, allergies, gluten-free issues, and education for the deaf. Her research led to her writing about these issues and making others aware f them.

Tina is a prolific writer and lends her expertise to a variety of weekly publications, radio shows, websites, and has started a new gluten-free website called www.glutenfreehelp.info.

Her book Danny the Dragon "Meets Jimmy" has been nominated Best Children's Picture Book of 2009, and has won other numerous awards. It takes the child back to a time where things were simpler, as this family heads to the beach and discovers a magical seashell with a special visitor inside. It is the world seen through the eyes of a child, and I cannot wait to see what Jimmy and Danny do next. The book will have a sequel to accompany this one.

Tina's DVD is a very unique one. It is basically the book, read allowed, and interpreted in sign language for those children hard of hearing, or hearing impaired. My daughter didn't seem to notice the woman signing next to the story, but for me (having studied Sign language in high school) I found myself trying to catch on to what she was signing. The DVD will be available for purchase mid April on her website.

This book encourages children to use their imagination and welcome new expperiences. Although geared towards 4-8 year olds, my toddler loved watching the DVD and having the story of Danny the Dragon read to her at night.

Thank you Tina for sharing your book with me and allowing me to do this review.

Disclosure: Tina Turbin provided me with a complimentary copy of this book and DVD in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own. Clicking on the picture above will take you to DannytheDragon.com where you may purchase the book and DVD.

My Baby is 3!

2010-03-13T22:06:00.002-06:00

Happy Birthday Baby Girl! Can't believe your 3!

What's growing in your Bath Toys?

2010-03-04T11:07:00.003-06:00

My Favorite segment of the Today shows is "Secret Filth Exposed".

Yesterday they had one on those cute little bath toys that our children love to play with. Lately I've been allowing my toddler to take more frequent baths, mainly because it's time for me to relax while she entertains herself. When I saw this story I was appalled.

They found that these bath toys were contaminated with fecal matter. Ecoli & Strep were just 2 of the bacterias they found on these toys. The toys with holes let germs thrive. When they opened them up they found that they were positive for staph, known for skin infections (for you moms with kids that have eczema).

Also, watch were you place these toys. Each flush of a toilet disperses fecal matter up to 20 ft.

SO...How do we let our kids enjoy their bath without the possibility pf getting sick?

♥ Give them toys without holes.

♥ After every bath, wipe them off with Alcohol or peroxide, and let them thoroughly dry.

♥ Watch for Black stuff! The moment you see black stuff build up, throw them away!

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Rental Car Secret...Beware

2010-03-04T10:57:00.003-06:00

We are quickly approaching Travel season and with that comes trips on Airplanes, or renting a vehicle.

Here's a study done on the Today show that really grossed me out. They compared Rental cars to public restrooms in that they contain just as much bacteria! They even found Strep in a mini van, vomit on the floors, and the flu.

This study made me think twice about renting a car, and even being more affective in cleaning my own car.

Also, I heard the other day to treat the tray table in an airplane like a changing table, in that there's probably fecal matter on it. Travel Clorox wipes come in handy for wiping them down.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

What to do:
Wipe down Steering Wheel, gears, Spray Lysol.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-03T06:17:00.000-06:00

Tuesday Featurette

2010-03-02T21:06:00.004-06:00

Here's another blog Feature!

Meet Mandi
Her blog is not only funny, but also inspirational. She has gorgeous giveaways, and she doesn't skip a beat.

Here is some advice I read on her blog a while back that I really liked, and really helped:

"If you find yourself slacking on other areas of your life because blogging is taking up too much of your time then I would suggest a few things:

♥Schedule out your day. What do you have to do? What chores need to get done?
♥Plan what time you will spend on your blog and stick to it! Set the oven timer if you have to!
♥Write your posts when you are less distracted. Before the kids get up or after they go to bed.
♥Make sure you have time for that husband of yours! Trust me, this helps! ;)
♥If you find some extra time write more than one post and save them for crazy times.
♥Don't neglect your kids to be on the computer. It will affect (effect?) your writing.
♥Make sure your major chores are done before writing. It can relieve the stress.
♥Be realistic. It may not be possible for you to post everyday. Maybe 3-4 days is all you can do. That's fine!"

Check her out!

Monday Madness

2010-03-01T10:35:00.003-06:00

Wind...

It is windy today. Why is it that when It's windy I don't feel like going out?

Last time it was this windy I was at the museum loading my kids up into the car when I turned around to find my stroller on the other side of the parking lot. The wind had carried it away.

Wind is always such an inconvenience with kids. They don't like it, You don't like it, it just makes it hard to get anything done out on the street.

So we'll play it safe and stay indoors.

Anyone here watch the Bachelor? Yep, tonights the finale and I'll be watching it for the first time with some girlfriends. I can't believe I've been watching the Bachelor since it started in 2002! I was in high school and my parents and I loved watching it together. Next to Idol this has been the one show that I've seen since the beginning, and although the outcome isn't always what I'd like it to be, and the couples don't always stay together, it's always a fun ride.

Fun fact, my husband's good friend in Law School grew up with Jake. Jake's dad is their family Dentist in Denton. Small world huh?

Luxuries

2010-02-25T21:59:00.002-06:00

To all of you stay at home moms...

Would you consider the ability to stay at home with your children a "Luxury"?

The other day, after a hard week of sickness and tantrums and not having any help, I sat in front of the TV, 5 cookies in hand, and zoned out. I got a phone call and as I told her what I was doing her reply was, "I wish I had that luxury."

Now this is coming from a single woman with a job and school, and nothing more to worry about but herself.

To me, my 15 minutes of alone time with no children climbing on me (only because they had finally decided to nap at the same time) was nothing more than a breather, and wish I could have taken my 15 minutes and read a good book. But come on...a luxury?! I had no energy for anything else but that.

Out of curiousity I went ahead and googled it...

luxury

1. indulgence in and enjoyment of rich, comfortable, and sumptuous living
2. (sometimes plural) something that is considered an indulgence rather than a necessity
3. something pleasant and satisfying the luxury of independence
4. (modifier) relating to, indicating, or supplying luxury a luxury liner

So, what do you think? To me a luxury would be a nanny maybe, or even a night for myself. Or how bout a 20 minute uninterrupted shower? Or a bathroom break?! What a luxury :)

Or how bout this house? I'm sure I would also have the "Luxury" of having a few maids, a chef, and JUST have the responsibility of caring for my children and husband.

No, my friends, I do not consider myself to be luxurious in the "stay at home" department. Although I do love my children, and do appreciate my husband for giving me the opportunity to stay home with my little ones, it does have it's downsides.

I wouldn't trade these moments for anything, but I wouldn't mind a break with a side of energy once in a while.

Comments?

PS: Yes, I have been away from the blogging world. My husband has pretty much been gone from 8 in the morning to about 8 at night, so I've been on my own with the babies. And I'm exhausted. But I am not giving up!

Wisdom for your Weekend

2010-02-19T21:38:00.005-06:00

"The best way out is always through."

-Robert Frost
US poet (1874 - 1963)

Do you ever find yourself in a situation where all you can think about is the best way to get out?

Many times I find myself screaming "Get me outta here!"

But this quote hit me right in the gut. You just have to stick through it and in the end you'll be proud that you did, and in turn may have learned a thing or two.

Don't give up. You can do it! Stop thinking about where you could be, and enjoy where you're at. Time goes by too quickly...and our kids (or us) aren't getting any younger.

Take the time to enjoy the "little" things in life.

I've been absent

2010-02-18T21:58:00.002-06:00

Crazy past couple of days...

Yesterday my toddler fell off of some spinning seat at the park which was 3 feet off the ground.

Thought nothing of it, till she woke up crying 3 times in the night complaining about her head hurting.

Next morning, belly hurt, but went to library anyways and to a friends house to play.

At friends house, she started running a fever.

Came home, Fever was 103.0 and she was very cranky.

Called husband to come with me to take her to the ER (just in case there was some injury to her head)

2 hours in waiting room

2 hours in ER room

2 tests later...negative (strep and urine test)

Pull a diagnosis out of a hat...

Ala Kazaam...Ala Kazoom!

Here are your antibiotics...your healthy!

Gosh, I hate ERs and Doctors...can't live with them, can't live without them.

Daughters fine, but no real diagnosis. I feel like I came out with less information than when I went in.

Monday Madness

2010-02-15T23:54:00.004-06:00

I'm starting to sense a trend in my Mondays. I guess I try to jump into the week full throttle, making myself clean the entire house on Monday, so that I can semi-enjoy the week, but this never works.

Today I spent the entire day cleaning. I mostly cleaned the kitchen, but then got caught up picking up all the dirty clothes around the house. Although each of us have our own hamper, somehow we tend to throw our dirty clothes in corners.

Just when I think that the day is coming to a close, and both my kids are napping, my daughter pees on the couch in her sleep.

Unfortunately this is not a first, but I should have known better than to let her fall asleep without a diaper on.

My daughter has been potty trained for almost a year now, but we still haven't gotten over the night time peeing. I know it's because she drinks a TON of milk before bed, but that's the only thing that gets her to sleep on her own!

Anywho, yes, Mondays are a dreaded day for me, So I'm glad tomorrow is quickly approaching. Maybe I'll be better scheduled this week and get some things done.

Just gotta keep telling myself..."I will SURVIVE!"

Wisdom for your Weekend

2010-02-14T22:15:00.003-06:00

Here's a good one I came across today :)

Money doesn't always bring happiness. People with ten million dollars are no happier than people with nine million dollars.
- Hobart Brown

Gee, I'd be fine with the nine million right about now :)

Olympics 2010

2010-02-12T22:35:00.003-06:00

God Bless all the Olympians! I love the Olympics. I would love to just be in their shoes one day :)

Snow

2010-02-11T21:37:00.005-06:00

I Have a Love/Hate relationship with the snow. I grew up in Miami, so never really had the pleasure of living with the snow. It was pretty much summer all year round. After having lived in Utah for 3 years and North Texas for a winter, I'm beginning to realize that I don't really Love the snow, but I don't always hate it either.

Today it snowed, and my daughter loved it. I love watching her experience things for the first time. She is finally fitting into her $1.50 rain boots I bought her almost a year ago at a garage sale. She loved kicking around the snow and not worrying about cold wet feet.

My infant wasn't too excited about the snow, mainly because his nose started to drip, but all in all he was a good sport and loved to watch his sister play.

Someone saw my daughter running around in the snow and asked her if she had caught a snowflake in her mouth yet. This opened up a whole new door of fun for her. She was trying to catch those snow flakes left and right. At least the lady didn't ask her if she licked the snow off the ground :)

Things I love about the snow:
♥ Chunky Snowflakes
♥ Snow angels
♥ Every thing is covered in white
♥ No bugs...think about it :)

Things I hate about the snow:
⇓ Having to bundle up the kids, worrying that they aren't warm enough
⇓ Bad drivers
⇓ scraping the ice of your windshield
⇓ getting kids in their car seats with puffy coats

What are your experiences with the snow? And how do you cope those long winter days indoors with your kids?

Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-10T21:35:00.000-06:00

Popsicles

2010-02-09T21:21:00.002-06:00

"I want a Popsicle Mama." Is all I ever hear when I make the announcement that I will be going to get the mail. Since our mailbox is at the clubhouse my 3 year old always wants to tag along. Not just for the mere pleasure of accompanying me, but to get a Popsicle from the office. They love her at the front office, so they keep the freezer stocked for when she comes...but it's WINTER! And only she would want a Popsicle at this time. I thought a little fun in the falling snow would suffice, but no. She still insisted on her Popsicle. Maybe a cookie would change her mind? Nope...My daughter loves those darn sugar tubes.

So, I give in to her commands and let her pick a color. At least blue looked cute for a picture :)

Now Featuring...

2010-02-09T21:05:00.002-06:00

It's time for another Blog Feature!

Meet HyperMom:

Jing Lejano is a single mother of four and grandmother of one. She is also a writer, entrepreneur, and crafts enthusiast.

HyperMom is truly a writer, and I enjoy reading her blog because she's not only funny, but you can always relate to her experiences.

Why do I blog? It's my me-time; I love it that I can just say whatever I want in my little corner of the blogosphere.

Tell me something Unique about yourself:
Something unique? At 42, I became a granny mwahaha

So go check her out! And make sure to mention that you found her on GoingPeanuts!

Monday Madness

2010-02-08T21:18:00.002-06:00

Ever feel like you're stuck in a box?

I hate Mondays. For some reason I still dread Mondays as if I were still working a 9-5 job. Well, we all know that Motherhood is a 24/7 job that cannot be escaped, but somehow Mondays are just the worst.

I'm stuck, in a box, in a town I don't truly care for. My Husband is at school, and fortunately he makes an effort to come home early when he senses something is wrong.

I just don't know how to get out of this "Monday Mode". I sure hope tomorrow is better.

Did I mention I just HATE Mondays...

Sunday Recipe

2010-02-06T22:45:00.004-06:00

OK, so I have had this book for a while, but I haven't actually used it yet, until now. It is absolutely the greatest recipe book ever! It's called:

It's a great way to get your kids to eat vegetables, without even knowing it! Her whole theory is to puree the vegetables and use them in some common recipe's.

You must get this book! I have now fallen in love with steaming my vegetables. All of the nutrients stay in the vegetable and then they are super easy to puree after. I steamed some cauliflower today to use in this recipe I will share with you, and my daughter thought it was mashed potatoes. She ate it and thought it was SO "yummy".

My daughter eats vegetables just fine, but what a great way to sneak in some extra every once and a while. Here is a great recipe I made last night.

Chicken Alphabet Soup
(With Cauliflower and Sweet Potato)

Prep: 45 minutes Serves 8

Ingredients:
♥3 qts reduced-fat low sodium chicken broth
♥1 chicken breast on the bone (about 1/2 lb) rinsed and dried, skin removed (I used 2 breasts for more chicken)
♥1/2 tsp salt
♥1/2 cup alphabet pasta (or pinwheels, since I couldn't find the letters)
♥1/4 cup cauliflower puree (steam cauliflower for 8-10 minutes, then puree)
♥1/4 cup sweet potato puree (steam sweet potato with skin for 30 minutes, remove skin and puree)

Directions:

1. Bring broth to a boil in large pot. Sprinkle chicken with salt, carefully slide it into the broth. Immediately turn off the heat and let the chicken cook in heated broth for 25-30 minutes.

2. Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and let cool on plate for a few minutes, until cool enough to handle. Then pull meat off the bone and cut into small pieces (I shredded mine into strips) set aside.

3. Bring broth back to a simmer and add pasta. Stir in both puree's and simmer for 5-6 minutes or until pasta is ready. Toss in chicken and serve hot.

This was a great recipe, and fairly easy to make. My daughter loved it and Husband ate it with Parmesan triscuits.

Enjoy!

Wisdom for your Weekend

2010-02-06T22:20:00.002-06:00

A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie.
-- Tenneva Jordan

Isn't this all too true? At least for my mom it has always been this way. She would always sacrifice herself for her kids. She never shopped for her own clothing, and would use the opportunity to buy something nice for her girls.

I find myself being more like this as well. Ever since my daughter was born I was consumed by the obsession of buying her new clothes, accessories, and toys without once thinking about how that money could go towards a hair cut or new blouse.

It's funny how we lose ourselves in our children at times, and forget completely about ourselves. Have you ever found yourself starving, only to remember that you forgot to eat because you were so busy trying to make sure your children ate?

Mother's are very special people, and I don't think everyone is this way, but let us try to be more selfless of ourselves, but not neglect ourselves either ☺

Something about Susan Saturday

2010-02-06T22:08:00.003-06:00

I LOVE bright colors in pictures. I'm not too sure what it is about them that draws me to them, but I would decorate my house in these pictures if I could. Actually, now that I think about it, I'm not too sure this post makes much sense, but it's been a long week, so excuse my posts ☺

And thus...

2010-02-05T21:19:00.004-06:00

Today Starts a new day to eat healthy. Usually I try to start things on Monday's, but Monday's are such a drag! I made a meal plan and spent 3 hours at the grocery store shopping for ingredients. Hopefully I wont have to return for a while! Anywho, I have decided to go completely organic and or natural products. Hopefully I'll get better at shopping for things so that I don't take all day with groceries.

Here's my new favorite snack! Probably the best packaged kettle corn there is!

Look forward for some new recipes!

Now Featuring...

2010-02-03T14:56:00.002-06:00

Here's my first blog feauturette! Meet Peaster Peach...

Hi! Im Peaster Peach aka Jessica.I spend most of my days at home hanging out with Monsta Baby. He is my only child and the most amazing thing to ever happen to me. I have the most amazing fiance ever Big Sexy. We are getting married this upcoming October and I can't wait! Welcome to my blog. It's mainly just a bunch of random things that happen in our day. Hope you like it!

♥Why Do You Blog?
It's a way for me to express my self and feel like I have interaction with someone besides a 8 month old poop machine!

♥Tell me something UNIQUE about yourself.
Something unique about me....not sure,well maybe that peasterpeach is my nickname but I also have peachs tattooed on my foot!

I love this blog, and she is just too funny! So Check her out! And let her know you found her on my blog ☺

Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-03T07:30:00.004-06:00

Shhh...I thought these were statues :)

Woohoo!

2010-02-02T22:18:00.002-06:00

My blog hit 50 followers last night, and I'm so excited! Hopefully everyone is enjoying my blog, and I thank you all for joining!

I would love to feature your blog on my site! Just send me comment if you'd like to be featured. Here are the questions you can answer:

Why do you blog?

Something unique about yourself.

Hopefully I'll get one blog feature a week, and we can all start reading each others blogs.

Thanks again!

Can you relate?

2010-02-02T21:54:00.003-06:00

Blow out Diapers: It seems as though we have at least 1 every 2 days. Don't you love waking up to a poopie bed?

Hating Small shopping carts: It's almost as if all these little stores with TOO many products have teeny grocery carts. My toddler doesn't even fit in the seat! Let alone the baby carrier in the basket. Next thing you know I have one basket for my kids, and drag a second for products.

Forgetting that last item in your shopping cart: I think every mom has stolen something one time or another. And I don't think your "pregnant brain" ever recovers. Don't you hate it when you're loading the kids in the car, and then unload all your shopping bags into the trunk, just to find one last item you forgot to pay for. Now you have to get all the kids out and go back and pay for your stolen item. But, I must say, I have been guilty of just saying...forget it! and leave it in the cart, or just put it in one of my bags.

Allergies: Seasonal allergies suck, and suck even worse when you can't focus. Don't you hate when you have to rush your kid to urgent care just to find out it's allergies? Yep...that was my day today.

Time: The less you pay attention to it, the faster it passes you by. The more you pay attention to it, the slower it goes by. Now if we could only figure out how to freeze it.

Pictures are awesome

2010-02-01T09:12:00.005-06:00

Here are some of my favorite pictures I took of my little sister in law on her birthday. It ended up being a great day despite the fact that it rained for 2 days straight down in the Hill country of Texas. She's so cute, and I can't believe she's 12 already! This means my kids are going to grow up real fast and I don't even realize it :(. Well, here they are!

And here it is!

2010-01-31T21:41:00.004-06:00

The final result...for the birthday cupcake with the sugar flowers and letters...only took me 2 days :)

Sunday Recipe

2010-01-31T07:00:00.004-06:00

MMMMM...This Recipe was given to me by my mother-in-law, who loves making new things!

Caramelized Pears and Red Onions
by: Martha Stewart

prep time: 5 min. total time: 45 min.
Serves 4

2 firm, ripe red pears (or green), such as bartlett, cored and quartered

2 red onions, each cut into 6 wedges

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

Directions:

Preheat oven to 425' F. Drizzle pears and onions with oil. Season with salt and pepper, toss. Spread mixture in a single layer baking sheet. Roast, turning pieces occasionally, until golden brown, about 40 minutes.

You will love this recipe! Tastes even like a dessert!

Enjoy :)

When it Rains

2010-01-29T08:57:00.003-06:00

It pours! IT seems as though our jobs as moms never end. Thus, this week has been not only pouring, but storming! Savanna is getting a cold, and we came down to my in-laws house for the week to help with my sister in law's 12th birthday. It's fun having young aunts for my kids, cause they love to play with them.

Anyways, I've been attempting to make some Sugar Gum Paste Flowers for her cake for Saturday. Needless to say, they are not looking that great, But I did make some cute bumblebees for one of her cupcakes. Any tips?

I love LOVE cupcakes. My obsession started when Savanna turned 2. I'm not too sure why I love them, but I love to bake them and decorate them. I'm always looking for new Ideas, and follow quite a few cupcake blogs. I don't love them as much as photography (probably cause I'm better at taking pictures than decorating cupcakes), but if I have some peace and quite, I bake cupcakes.

So, that's my project for today. My Sister in law is having a cupcake themed party. They are doing a spin off of the Food Network Challenge show and decorating cupcakes! Honestly, I am treating this party if it were my own, seeing my love of cupcakes, but boy is planning a party hard work!

Today will be filled with baking and decorating, and many little interruptions. Maybe I'll get SOMETHING done :)

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-27T09:40:00.007-06:00

It's all about family.
You're what I live for.
The Loves of my life.

Tuesday IOU

2010-01-26T09:52:00.000-06:00

I owe you a post! Things are crazy over here, (at in-laws house trying to help plan my little sister in-laws 12th birthday party). We're doing a Food Network Challenge on Saturday for her party and decorating cupcakes! Should be so much fun, and definitely a lot of fun to photograph.

So Stay tuned! And remember...I owe you Tuesday post!

Monday Madness

2010-01-25T00:30:00.008-06:00

Today hopefully will not result in madness, but just in case...

My mother in law drove up from her house (5 hours away) to come and pick up my kids and I to go back to her house. I know what you're thinking... You're thinking, "What the heck are you thinking going on the road with 2 kids for 5 hours?!"

Well you're right, but it wouldn't be a first. We have flown with our kids and have done road trips with them as well. My daughter has flown on an airplane at least 9 times already in her 3 years of life.

How do I do it? Well, breastfeeding always works on planes. My daughter slept on every flight until our last one at Christmas. But now with 2 kids it's a little more difficult, and I have not yet gained enough courage to fly on my own with 2 (one is a little easier).

So, Here's some tips for traveling with little ones!

1. A week before your departure, list everything you'll need to take and start gathering it right away.

2. Pack everything you want easy access to on the road separately so you're not forced to dig around in your suitcase en route.

3. Schedule your departure to ensure your children catch some quality zzz's on the road. Although, for me I have always tried to have the kids nap around my schedule...more of a compromise really.

4. If you're traveling with toddlers and younger kids, try not to drive more than two to three hours in one stretch. Expecting young kids to sit still that long is unrealistic, and honestly who likes to be in the car that long to begin with. If you're pregnant, get out and stretch at least every 90 minutes! But then again you'll probably have to pee every 30 :)

5. If you're traveling with someone, like your husband, switch off duties.One can drive while the other will be in charge of snack distribution, storytelling, and toy rotation. I usually put my daughter's car seat up front with my husband (with the air bags turned off) while I sit in the back with the baby.

6. Keep snacks handy! Favorite treats that travel well: string cheese, rice cakes, pretzels, bagels, sandwiches, apple slices, bananas, granola bars, cookies, raisins, cereal-Os, and puffed corn snacks. My daughter can't be without milk, so we take a small cooler and some milk in the car where I can easily refill her bottle.

7. Portable DVD players, which are truly very inexpensive now, or Ipod's are a life saver. You can upload their favorite shows and let them watch the whole way. Sesame Street has about 15 full length shows on Itunes you can download, for FREE! Now that's unheard of :)

Here is a list from the Babycenter website that I found Useful:

The BabyCenter Seven: Things you'll be glad you packed

1. A portable potty and T.P. If you're at that stage, this is priority #1.

2. Pillows. It comforts kids to have their own and they make the backseat much more comfy (can also be used to create a barrier between sibs!).

3. A plastic bucket — for carsick emergencies. Need we say more?

4. Peppermints, ginger ale, and saltines. These natural motion sickness remedies tame tumultuous tummies.

5. A ball to throw or kick at rest stops.

6. Plastic zip bags to hold everything from errant game pieces to crayons or leftover snacks.

7. A nightlight. Hotel rooms can be very dark at night.

So enjoy! And good luck!

Sunday Recipe

2010-01-24T09:00:00.000-06:00

Sundays used to be a day where my sisters and I would get to bake with my mom. Banana bread was her specialty (and probably the only thing she would bake, but then again, my mom wasn't one to be seen in the kitchen).

Savanna loves to bake, but sometimes gets in the way. I try to not get too frustrated with her, because after all, she is just trying to help. So this is a great recipe (and yummy) to have the kids help with. Mostly because of the simpleness of it, and they get to eat marshmallows.

Mississippi Mud Cookies

Prep: 25 min., Bake: 12 min. per batch

1 cup semisweet chocolate morsels
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup milk chocolate morsels
1 cup plus 2 Tbsp. miniature marshmallows

1. Microwave semisweet chocolate morsels in a small microwave-safe glass bowl at HIGH 1 minute or until smooth, stirring every 30 seconds.

2. Beat butter and sugar at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy; add eggs, 1 at a time, beating until blended after each addition. Beat in vanilla and melted chocolate.

3. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually add to chocolate mixture, beating until well blended. Stir in chopped pecans and 1/2 cup milk chocolate morsels.

4. Drop dough by heaping tablespoonfuls onto parchment paper-lined baking sheets. Press 3 marshmallows into each portion of dough.

5. Bake at 350° for 10 to 12 minutes or until set. Remove to wire racks.

Enjoy!

Something About Susan Saturday

2010-01-23T21:42:00.000-06:00

So, here's a new one that I guess I'll start. You probably will start to get to know me just by my posts, but here it goes.

I love Photography. I have been shooting since I got my first Canon SLR at the age of 15. I was so excited and would shoot about 13 rolls a month (or vacation). It was pretty expensive (and thank goodness for digital!). At the moment I am trying to work up enough money to buy a new professional digital camera so that I can do some photo shoots.

Photography is my passion. And I don't think I love anything more in this world (aside from my family of course!).

I am probably the only person I know who cries in a photo gallery...

Now you know :)

(This is Savanna at a year old)

One of those days...

2010-01-23T21:25:00.000-06:00

that never ends!

Savanna, my almost 3 year old, never naps. Which is ok some days because then she crashes at night and is in bed early. Well, not tonight! She wanted toy after toy, after snack, another bottle of milk mom, I'm not tired! Then, once in bed she got out twice. I had to bribe her with going to church tomorrow. "If you don't get to bed now, we're not going to church tomorrow." What a horrible bribe :) Haha.

Savanna isn't very keen on staying in nursery at our church, but she loves for me to stay in with her (which for me completely cancels out the reason I even go to church on sunday). Hopefully tomorrow she'll stay by herself, and I can get a short needed break.

So, I love my grocery store. When I have to go to the grocery store on my own, I freak out. Before with just Savanna I did fine. She would sit in the cart and eat a snack (Usually something she would pick off a shelf), but now I have the 2, Savanna and William who is 3 months old.

Today I only had a few things to get. So I wasn't too concerned. At our store they have these miniature grocery carts. They are a life saver. I have found that if I give Savanna something to do (like pick out a mac-n-cheese box, or some apples) she is rather pleasant to shop with. "what next mama?" is so much more pleasant than that of a restless 2 year old.

I have a headache, but was dying to post! My husband thinks I'm a little too obssessed over blogging, which he may be right, so I'm trying to have a set time to check it every evening. So please keep following! And check back often!

Wisdom for your Weekend

2010-01-22T23:54:00.000-06:00

Silence propagates itself, and the longer talk has been suspended, the more difficult it is to find anything to say.
- Samuel Johnson

So keep up your blogging! Don't let too much time go between posting, because then you'll have a hard time catching up!

Just a thought...you may just be like me though and can't get enough...

::Cough Cough:: Sniffle

2010-01-22T10:10:00.000-06:00

Head colds suck. They suck even more when you don't have the luxury of lying in bed and pampering yourself. Plus, we can't "call in sick", Our jobs as moms continue to go on.

So HOW exactly do you avoid getting sick and protect your kids from not catching anything (or bring something home)?

If you're like my husband you'll say, "You can't prevent getting sick. What are you going to do? Hide in a hole?"

NO! I disagree, I believe you CAN do as much on your part to not get sick, but if you do, at least you know you tried your hardest and hopefully you wont be TOO sick (and won't rub it off on your kids)

So here are some steps you can take to prevent from getting sick, and some to help you get better quicker!

Preventative Measures:

1. Clorox Wipes are your friend: Remember this and you'll be happy. Always keep stock in Lysol or Clorox wipes. Wipe down everything, from counter tops to door handles, to sinks, and even toilets (yuck). Basically your high traffic areas should be constantly cleaned, and it doesn't take too long to take a wipe and go through the house and wipe things down. If you're like me cleaning the house takes a couple of days, so prioritize your housework. This should be your top priority.

They even sell these in travel sizes. I take them on the airplane and wipe things down, or to dinner and wipe down the table.

2. Sanitize your hands: Whenever possible, wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. When my second baby was born, William, I was constantly washing my hands after I touched anything. Yes, I was a little obssesive, but I became the biggest germ-a-phobe when I got pregnant (and my husband came home with swine flu when I hit 6 months preggo).

Teach your kids to wash their hands as well. Teaching them good habits early on will help them in the future when they aren't always around Mommy. My daughter, Savanna, is a little obsessed with washing her hands as well. Sometimes she'll stand on a stool in front of the sink for 3 minutes washing her hands (oh, and teach them to shut off the water when they are scrubbing, saving water is great for the planet, and for your pocket:).

Keep a stool in the kids bathroom to make the sink accessible for your little ones. The soap should always be in reach as well, and a hand towel. Because, let's be honest, it's hard to drop everything to go and lift your toddler to the sink every time they get dirty. This also teaches them to be independent and care for themselves...remember, GOOD HABITS!

Don't be embarrassed to ask others to wash their hands when they want to hold your baby. If out, just whip out your sanitizer. This is really hard for me to do, but you DON'T want your newborn sick!

When you're not at home, keep some sanitizer in your purse. There are some natural sanitizers at almost any grocery store or pharmacy (or Target) if your worried about drying out your hands or your kids sucking on them. Or keep some "child safe" hand wipes handy.

3. Lysol spray: I guess this goes with the wipes, but keep your air clean with a Lysol sprayer (not every air freshener kills germs). They even sell little bottles for your purse at Target! My husband made fun of me when I used my travel Lysol spray at the movie theater when my son was born. But then everyone in his family wanted me to spray down their chair! It catches on quickly :)

4. Vitamin C: Helps when you start feeling sick. I sometimes even double the dose, but remember to take it with a meal because it can hurt your stomach. Emergen-C works like a charm as well.

5. Probiotics: Remember this key factor...a healthy digestive system is best for your immune system.

IF YOU ARE SICK:

1. Get some Rest: I know this sounds like an oxymoron when you don't even have time to sleep at night, let alone during the day. Here's my trick. If you have a TV in your room, throw your toddler in bed with you and turn on their show. This way you can lay down and keep an eye out for your little one.

If you just have babies at home, NAP WHEN THEY DO! I don't know how often I heard this, even if I wasn't sick, but remember, if you get too worn out you WILL get sick. Somehow it just works that way.

2. Vitamin C: Even though you are already sick, this helps you get over it sooner.

3. Gargle: Now you may be asking yourself...GARGLE? Yes, this has been advice given down from my grandmother, and then reinforced by my doctor. Here's the Recipe:

A glass of Cold water
A squirt of Listerine (the clear one, not blue)

A cap full of hydrogen peroxide

Then Gargle! Do it a few times. This will kill all the bacteria on the back of your throat, and almost numb it too, which helps if you have a sore throat.

4. Saline Flush: I do this with my kids almost daily. It is not only a great preventative for getting sick, but helps clear you out when you are sick. My parents used to take us to the beach when we were sick. Salt water has healing properties (that I still have yet to figure out) but it sure does make you feel better.

With your kids, get an easy sprayer (Little Noses makes one that sprays upwards) and use a bulb saringe for your little ones to suck out all the boogs (AKA. Mucus, but that's such a gross word). Teach your toddlers how to blow their noses. The less boogers in their noses, the healthier they'll be. Then swab them out with q-tips. My kids have yet to get sick (even when my husband and I are sick).

5. Don't Share: Everyone should have their own towels, toothbrush, and cups when they are sick. This is advice given to me by a doctor. So keep towels and sheets clean to help get well.

Another trick is keeping tissue boxes throughout the house. Have you ever been guilty of wiping your nose on the backside of your hand, or your shirt...be honest! If there are tissue boxes everywhere, all you need to do is reach for one. Keeping things accessible is the key.

6. Breastfeed: I am the biggest advocate for breastfeeding. I breastfed my oldest till she was 2 (I KNOW...that's long :), but she never got sick! They get your anti-bodies and through this keep healthy.

If your not, plenty of fluids for the kids and yourself, to flush things out. My daughter loves milk, and Cow milk has vitamin D which also helps as a preventative.

7. Shower: A simple task, you would think, but being a mom doesn't always allow you time to shower the way you once used to. I shower with my kids, just because it's easier to bathe them and myself at the same time. Showering and blow-drying your hair (cause for some reason wet hair makes you feel worse) helps you feel better and look better :). 2 in one!

Now you're probably thinking I'm just a big germ-a-phobe, and you're right, BUT hopefully you'll take my advice and it'll help keep you well this flu season!

Sickness + Mom = No fun for anyone

PS: Howie Mandel is a germ-a-phobe...and look! He has his own show!

Today I:

2010-01-21T19:32:00.001-06:00

Woke up

Left the kids in Pajamas

Checked my email

Had a friend over for some playtime (for my 2 year old, who has a hard time sharing her toys)

Had some lunch

Breastfed about 5 times

Threw in about 3 naps for my 3 month old (angel of a boy)

Skype'd with my mom for an hour

Picked up toys which were left all around our 2 bedroom apartment (it can get cramped sometimes)

Husband came home, to my relief!

But not done yet, must cook dinner...

Refilled the oil bottle with brand new EXPENSIVE virgin olive oil

Mid cooking, tipped over olive oil in which it sliced in half on our granite top, down the cabinets, on my pants, on the floor, and daughters stool

Husband put baby down in car seat to help clean up the mess, cut myself

Savanna rocked William too hard and he flew out of his car seat onto the floor, head first.

...Time out Savanna...

Finished meal, ate dinner, turned on the TV

And now blogging. Great day, ya think?!

Now to start it all over again tomorrow :) I wonder what adventures we'll have

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-20T23:36:00.000-06:00

Well, I know I've written a few posts for today, But I thought since I started this new blog, I'd at least start with a new tradition. Wordless Wednesday:

Date your husband

2010-01-20T22:00:00.000-06:00

It's easy to get carried away with taking care of the kids and your house. We forget that we are also wives. We need to date our husbands.

This is my cute hubby and I. Aren't we cute? :) Dating helps keep the young love alive. It also helps separate yourself from the day to day monotony of marriage. Let's be real, not every day is peaches and cream, but if we at least have 1 night a week where we dedicate to our relationship we will continue to strengthen our marriages and add a little more lighter fluid to the fire...Don't let that fire burn out ladies!

But I hear you. You're saying to yourselves...

BUT...WE HAVE NO MONEY!

AND

...NO BABYSITTER!

Some mom's are lucky to have family around, but not in this mom's case. I have no family near by and I'm still not comfortable leaving my babies with strangers, but here are some ideas none the less.

1. The Indian Experiment: A friend of mine had a group of friends who would switch off babysitting the other couple's kids every other Friday night. This way they would have a set babysitter for their date. In turn you wouldn't have to hire a babysitter, or dish out 20.00 extra for the evening on some unknown teenager to watch your kids. It's like the Indians used to do. Well, I can't say the Indians did much dating, but in the sense of trading services. Tit for Tat.

Soon they had 5 couples in the rotation, and were able to go out much more often.

2. The Night in Theory: Lets say you don't have a babysitter or friends (hopefully you have friends :). What's wrong with having a night in? Not every date requires much money.

Netflix is a great, inexpensive date. Your movies are sent strait to your mailbox, and if you plan it right, you will have a new movie every weekend. Renting movies costs money, and that money adds up. Joining Netflix will ultimately force you to budget your entertainment expenses.

And Cuddling up to a nice movie is always a plus.

So put those babies to bed, pop in a movie, and RELAX!

3. Nature Theory: MmMmM...there's nothing like connecting with nature. Visit a local park, take a walk at sunset or a picnic lunch. We are surrounded by natural FREE beauty. Parks are a great place to relax and have good conversation. I find at times that my husband and I never really have enough time to sit down and talk. Most of the talking we do is about the finances, or things that need to be discussed quickly before we run out of time.

Observing nature really gives you a chance to ponder what's important in life. It's the simple things that are matter most, and a simple day at the park can bring us the happiest memories of our YOUNG married lives.

JUST TRY IT...And DON'T Forget your camera!

4. The "Sunday Drive" Theory: Remember those Sunday drives as a kid? My parents used to take us all the time on a Sunday drive. My mom had a convertible, so we'd pop down the top and drive around the neighborhood. It was so relaxing.

With kids this could work in your favor. (Hopefully they aren't cranky) Take them for a ride, and if your kids are great car sleepers, you'll be able to put them to sleep in the process. Then park somewhere and talk, or make-out :) Whatever works.

So DATE DATE DATE! And let me know of any other ideas you might have. I'm sure there are plenty more!

Time for some Resolutions...

2010-01-20T21:27:00.000-06:00

res⋅o⋅lu⋅tion
[rez-uh-loo-shuhn]:
a resolve or determination: to make a firm resolution to do something.

Why is it that almost always the top New Year's resolution is to lose weight? Well, this year I have decided that since I'm always trying to lose weight it would not make the list. Here is my list:

1. Eat Healthy: I'm trying to be more concious of the groceries I buy and the food we eat. Since we are students again, going out to eat isn't always an option, but in turn this makes it easier to watch what we eat and what goes into our food. So far since we've been back from Miami I've cooked every meal. This is definitely a challenge and takes up most of my "spare time", but I have enjoyed feeling better and know that as I become mindful of what I eat I will in turn LOSE WEIGHT. So, there's Resolution #1.

2. Patience: Why is this such a hard virtue to have? I guess I've never really had much patience for anything, but now with 2 children and a husband in Law school (let alone no time for myself) Patience is really hard to come by. Savanna is getting to an age where she loves to explore and be independent. The best advice I have had so far was from my dad. I was focusing all my effort on controlling her that it was exhausting me. But he said, "Savanna is very smart. You need to guide her not control her." I guess if I restrict her too much she will lose her enthusiasm on the world around her. This will be very challenging, but I will have to allow her to "get her hands dirty" every once and a while. Patience...

3. Blogging: My first goal is to convert my entire blog into a scrapbook or journal. Any ideas? It's been almost 3 years since I started and so much has been put into this blog. What a blessing it will be to have all of these moments saved for my children to read. My second goal is to have at least 2 postings per week. That way I don't forget anything. My memory is horrible lately and I can't even remember what I did 4 days ago. Any suggestions for that as well? :)

4. Schedule Myself: I'm pretty good at keeping my agenda handy and writing down everything that happens in the day, but for this resolution I am mainly talking about the house work and meals. I found when I was planning my meals I was saving money on groceries, and I was a lot less stressed out. My friend Janielle would write down a list of 2 weeks worth of different meals, at the top of the list were meals that required fresh groceries (which she'd choose from first) and then some quick meals and other meals on hand. Then she would just choose a meal, and scratch it off as she went. This worked for us, but I never kept up with it, but it's a new year!

Secondly is my house work. Ugh, I feel as though every day I spend cleaning or doing laundry. It's really getting old. So, I have decided that I need to just realize that my house will never look perfect on a daily basis. I need to separate my chores throughout the week, and then keep up with laundry every other day. If I don't, I will just be stuck cleaning everyday and Savanna will never get out of the house.

5. Get involved: It's hard to get involved when you are so involved with your family. I need to meet more people here and get involved with the activities and provide friends for Savanna. As of now she has a few friends, in which we get together with, but she is really starting to like kids, so she needs to get involved as well. I need to get involved with my ward as well. With William it's been hard to go to church, but now that he is older we are going to start up again. Hopefully Savanna will start going to nursery and we'll make friends at church as well.

6. Read: I have so many books on my shelf I want to finish, so I will try and find time to read this year! It was easier before William was born, but I just have SO much more I have to do. But I'm sure it'll get easier. I also need to start having some scripture study with our family.

7. ENJOY EVERY MOMENT: I think this one speaks for itself. Agreed? Time flies, so quickly, Enjoy every moment.

I'm sure I have plenty more, but these are the ones I really need to work on and come to mind in this short little moment I have to blog. Till next time!

This is easy!

2010-01-20T15:59:00.000-06:00

I thought, while I was a nanny. I nannied for about a year for 2 different wealthy families. Everything seemed so easy. I had a credit card for outings, and eating out, gas money, and anything the children needed. So driving 20 miles away to the best children's museum in town didn't seem like such a problem. I wasn't the one paying for the gas.

I soon found out that motherhood was not like this. I do not have a limit free credit card that some one else is paying for, therefore, I cannot entertain the kids the way I did when I was a nanny.

SO WHAT DO I DO?!

You mean...I can't take the kids to the museum every day? Or the zoo? Or dance lessons? Or buy them a new toy because they're bored with their old toy?

And on top of this, we have our own list of "To Do's" to get done. Errands with children isn't necessarily the easiest thing to do.

Activities cost money, and not to mention TIME. Time in which we do not always have. So how do we have our cake and eat it too? Something most of us moms try to do too often, and find ourselves shoving the cake down our throats without really enjoying it.

So here's one solution. Find a mother's group in your area. A great website is .
Many of these playgroups have MNO (mom's night out) where you can meet other moms. This was you will have some activities to go to with your kids, and have built in friends. Many of these moms will also do playgroups at their home with crafts, or in the summer time a pool day, where not only your child, but YOU can have some adult interaction.

GET CONNECTED:

Another great site is Here you can search for moms by zip code, age, # of Kids, age of kids, etc. The best way to still feel young and enjoy being a mom is by connecting with other MOMS.

We're all in this together! We just need to find each other.

I'm a young mom

2010-01-20T00:27:00.000-06:00

I was married at the ripe ol' age of 19, quit school to support my husband through his undergrad, thought about going back after he graduated, got pregnant, he graduated, we moved, and then...life happens. Ever since then I've been a mom. I LOVE IT. But don't get me wrong, motherhood isn't at all glamorous, it's A LOT of work! What was I thinking?!

I'm 23.

I'm a stay-at-home mom.

I have 2 beautiful kids.

And my life is filled with laundry, chores, wiping butts, picking noses, playgroups, cooking dinner, and way too much responsibility and decisions.

Who knew at 23 I'd be thinking about which brand of diapers to use, or when the next playgroup was. All my high school friends are just now thinking about settling down, or which club they'll go to next.

Oh how I wish I could travel, shop, or just have ME time (if it even existed).

To top it all off, my husband is attending Law School, and we are living off of student loans. So money isn't necessarily flowing from our pockets. I've had a hard time trying to live on a budget my entire life, and now with 2 kids under the age of 3 it's tough not to feel a little trapped.

I've read many blogs in search of other moms like me. Yes they're plenty of "mom" blogs, but I want to write to those moms out there, in their 20s, with little money to entertain themselves or their kids.

Let's get real. We don't have 100.00 to spend on a season pass to the zoo, or 699.00 to spend on the top of the line stroller. So what is considered "best bang for your buck"? What can we afford and yet still have some sort of luxury in our penniless lives?

That's where I come in. I will be doing reviews on products, and how to enjoy your time with your kids and still be "young." After all, we are YOUNG. Just because we have kids and a family, doesn't mean we can't enjoy ourselves.

So please comment on ideas you would like to read about. I am always looking for new ideas and new products to try. I love input!