Last week I was reading some other blogs and I came across a post talking about all the clothes that had been handed down to her family. This mom was overwhelmed with pink, purples and crazy girl clothes. She had so many clothes from friends and family that she wasn't even able to get through them all before her kids out grew them. I however have the opposite problem.
After having my son, I was thankful to my friends and family for all the hand-me-downs I got. However, when it comes to boy clothes there really aren't that many things to choose from. T-shirts, pants, shorts... and that's about it. Jack has been at the top end of the growth charts since birth, which means he is growing out of his clothes so fast. We no longer have hand-me-down clothes and now have to buy his clothes. It's crazy how easy it is to find cute girl clothes for cheap and the huge variety every where you go. Boys clothes, not so much.
I went to a huge consignment sale this weekend and found some great stuff, but I was surprised at how much people wanted for shirts and pants. I bought Jack's fall/winter clothes which ended up being 2T/3T. Which is crazy since he is just over a year old.
As Jack continues to grow out of his clothes I am happy that I have so many friends and family that I can hand his clothes down to. Maybe one day he will slow down and I can stop buying clothes all the time... I can dream can't I.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
My Harris Teeter Savings 7/13/11
So I went to Harris Teeter today to get some good deals. Here is what I got and my savings.
6 tubes of toothpaste
3 deodorants
2 toothbrushes
2 boxes of Suddenly Salad
1 box of cake mix
1 tub of frosting
1 box of hair dye
1 box Truvia
1 Fusion Razor
1 Shampoo
1 Conditioner
1 Shampoo/Conditioner
1 Hair Spray
My total was $119.65
My coupons were $55.56
My EVic coupons were $9.25
My in-store card savings were $22.83
Total savings was $87.64
Which brought my total to $32.01
Some of my awesome deals where the following.
Razor with two cartridges originally $11.99, on sale for $8.99, I had two $2.00 coupons which brought the total for that to $4.99.
Hair dye was $9.99, on sale for $8.99 and I had two $3.00 off coupons which brought the total to $2.99.
The hair spray and 2 in 1 herbal essence was a great deal too. They were $4.29 and $3.29, on sale for $2.50 each and I had a $3.00 off coupon. So they were $1.00 each.
Toothpaste was by 2 get three free. So I had two coupons for the Colgate and that made each of those $0.62. The the crest toothpaste was $0.25.
The toothbrushes were FREE.
Suddenly Salad boxes $0.50 each.
I had a coupon for every item you see in the picture. I was pretty pleased with what I ended up with and how much I paid. I now have toothpaste to last us through to next summer with what I had in my stash already. Happy saving everyone.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Monday Menu Planning Week of July 11
Monday - Spaghetti, Fruit, Home Made Rolls
Tuesday - Enchiladas, Rice, Beans
Wednesday - Mini Cheese Burgers, Veggie Fries, Fruit
Thursday - Stuffed Peppers, Fruit
Friday - Pizza and Leftovers
Saturday - Beach
Sunday - General Chicken, Rice and Broccoli
Tuesday - Enchiladas, Rice, Beans
Wednesday - Mini Cheese Burgers, Veggie Fries, Fruit
Thursday - Stuffed Peppers, Fruit
Friday - Pizza and Leftovers
Saturday - Beach
Sunday - General Chicken, Rice and Broccoli
Friday, July 8, 2011
Selling Our House
So we have had our house on the market to sell since April and we really haven't had a lot of lookers. We have had one low ball offer and a few open houses. I am getting quite discouraged since we now have two brand new houses being built in our neighborhood. If they are done quickly, they will most likely sell before our house does. There are 2 other houses in the neighborhood for sale besides ours and one of them has been on the market for quite a bit longer than ours has. Houses seemed to be moving fast when we put our house on the market, but we are now moving into our 4th month and I'm feeling like we are never going to sell.
When my two good friends moved away last year it took one 8 months and the other a few months shorter. So I guess I shouldn't start worrying until we hit 6 or 7 months. I was just kinda hoping that we would be out of the house a few months before we moved. We are now on the downhill side and getting closer to our move date. It's going to be crazy getting everything packed up, sold or given away before we leave.
I still have to figure out how we are going to get the stuff we are taking with us, up to Alaska. We are debating a road trip with all three of us, but it may turn out that David will have to do the drive by himself and Jack and I will fly. I would like to do it as a family and then take the ferry up. But if Jack doesn't start to enjoy the car a little... okay a lot more, then we will be flying. 5 days in the car with a screaming kid is not a recipe for a good time.
Well I suppose I should get off here and get a few chores done around the house, just in case we have a showing this weekend. It sure would be nice to not have to be ready for showings all the time. Send me good vibes and house buyer would you please.
When my two good friends moved away last year it took one 8 months and the other a few months shorter. So I guess I shouldn't start worrying until we hit 6 or 7 months. I was just kinda hoping that we would be out of the house a few months before we moved. We are now on the downhill side and getting closer to our move date. It's going to be crazy getting everything packed up, sold or given away before we leave.
I still have to figure out how we are going to get the stuff we are taking with us, up to Alaska. We are debating a road trip with all three of us, but it may turn out that David will have to do the drive by himself and Jack and I will fly. I would like to do it as a family and then take the ferry up. But if Jack doesn't start to enjoy the car a little... okay a lot more, then we will be flying. 5 days in the car with a screaming kid is not a recipe for a good time.
Well I suppose I should get off here and get a few chores done around the house, just in case we have a showing this weekend. It sure would be nice to not have to be ready for showings all the time. Send me good vibes and house buyer would you please.
I've Been Slacking
So over the past few weeks, there has either been a lot going on or nothing at all. I seem to get caught up in playing the same game for what seems like forever with Jack, meal times take forever because of... well clean up, naptime seems to be taking longer to happen and the nap is shorter than a few weeks ago and, I've just felt crappy.
So I thought I would take a few minutes while I have them and write. I only managed to get one post done last month and I don't know how that even happened. I have had several things I wanted to write about, just never had the time. I'm going to try this month to get my Monday Meal plans up every Monday, participate in Wordless Wednesday... because I like to, and write a few posts that have been swimming around in my head. I hope everyone has some great plans for the weekend. We are finally going to be home this weekend after being gone for 3 weekends in a row. We will make a day trip in to the city, but we will be sleeping in our bed every night.
Have a great weekend and more to come from me soon.
So I thought I would take a few minutes while I have them and write. I only managed to get one post done last month and I don't know how that even happened. I have had several things I wanted to write about, just never had the time. I'm going to try this month to get my Monday Meal plans up every Monday, participate in Wordless Wednesday... because I like to, and write a few posts that have been swimming around in my head. I hope everyone has some great plans for the weekend. We are finally going to be home this weekend after being gone for 3 weekends in a row. We will make a day trip in to the city, but we will be sleeping in our bed every night.
Have a great weekend and more to come from me soon.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
How We Ended Up Together - Project Marriage
This post is the first challenge in Project Marriage. MommyFriend and LifeWithOutPink have joined together to start Project Marriage. The first challenge is to share your love story, you know, the one you love to tell that makes your heart go pitter patter. So here is my love story on how my husband and I came to be.
My husband and I have a funny story of how we ended up together. There were many hands involved and it just so happened that we were both dating different people at the time. Anyways, I guess I'll start at the beginning. Back almost 10 years ago, in the fall of 2002 I moved across the country to North Carolina. I was in the Alaska Army National Guard so I had to transfer units. My first couple of drills went fine. Just your normal military stuff. Then I saw him, sexy in his uniform, just a little older than me, a college boy, and looked like a frat guy to me. All things I was perfectly fine with. We didn't live in the same town, but I got to see him every month. We were both seeing other people, but that didn't matter for several years.
Once our unit was activated to go overseas and serve in Iraq things changed. We were around each other a lot more and in several classes together. We joked about getting married just on paper so we could make a little extra cash... but as it turned out we would actually be making less. Go figure. I guess that's when we started to become friends, instead of just soldiers who would say "Hey" or have lunch as a group once a month. We worked in totally different fields. I was an intelligence analyst and he was the driver for the General of our brigade.
We deployed in February 2004, for Operation Iraqi Freedom II. And yes at this time we were still dating people back in the states. War was now on our minds 24/7. We were going to an area of Iraq that was not highly populated and the base we would be calling home for the next year, was not well built up. We lived in tents until we had more suitable housing built or brought in, and MRE's were a daily meal for quite some time. Once we were able to finally get into a bit of a routine a few of us were able to start hanging out in the evenings. We also started having breakfast and lunch together everyday. We would sit around and talk about our days, what friends might be doing back home, and what we were missing out on. We would talk about family, significant others and what we were looking forward to when we got home.
At some point, my good friend who was the Generals Secretary and also worked side by side with my now husband thought it would be a good idea to play matchmaker. However, she wasn't trying to pair me up with the Generals Driver, rather the Sargent Majors Driver. He was nice, a little younger than me, and very sweet to write me such cute notes. But I wasn't all that interested in him. I really wasn't looking for romance in the middle of a war. But some how love and romance found me.
I mistakenly told one of the female sargents I was working with that I thought the Generals Driver was cute. We chit chatted about him a little and then she wanted to see who I was talking about. There were about 3,000 of us in the unit, so it's understandable she didn't know who I was talking about. Anyways, as I proceeded to point him out, she took it upon herself to walk right up to him and tell him what I had said. I was SHOCKED to say the least. So that's where things really started with us. In the middle of war, in the hot sand, trying to help make peace in a far away land.
Fast forward a few years and in October of 2007 we married in the sand. However, this time it was on a beach, in beautiful weather with all of our friends and even a few from overseas. The Generals Secretary was my Matron of Honor, our Chaplain that was overseas with us in Iraq married us, the General was there, and even my husbands gunner who helped keep everyone safe on all their convoys was able to attend.
People always thought that our little war romance would die when we returned home to the states. But I think once you have shared something so life changing, it's hard to even imagine finding someone that will understand what you have gone through. We have been able to process and talk about our time in Iraq with each other. No one but the people we went overseas with will ever understand what it was like, or why we may feel the way we do about things.
Everyday life changes you in smalls ways, but war changes you in so many ways. I'm happy to say that I found the love of my life in the middle of a war. I thank a few good friends for being there throughout the rough times with us and for my husband sticking by me even when I thought I wanted out.
We have a great life together and a beautiful baby boy. We will always share something together that not many can say they have, finding true love while at war.
My husband and I have a funny story of how we ended up together. There were many hands involved and it just so happened that we were both dating different people at the time. Anyways, I guess I'll start at the beginning. Back almost 10 years ago, in the fall of 2002 I moved across the country to North Carolina. I was in the Alaska Army National Guard so I had to transfer units. My first couple of drills went fine. Just your normal military stuff. Then I saw him, sexy in his uniform, just a little older than me, a college boy, and looked like a frat guy to me. All things I was perfectly fine with. We didn't live in the same town, but I got to see him every month. We were both seeing other people, but that didn't matter for several years.
Once our unit was activated to go overseas and serve in Iraq things changed. We were around each other a lot more and in several classes together. We joked about getting married just on paper so we could make a little extra cash... but as it turned out we would actually be making less. Go figure. I guess that's when we started to become friends, instead of just soldiers who would say "Hey" or have lunch as a group once a month. We worked in totally different fields. I was an intelligence analyst and he was the driver for the General of our brigade.
We deployed in February 2004, for Operation Iraqi Freedom II. And yes at this time we were still dating people back in the states. War was now on our minds 24/7. We were going to an area of Iraq that was not highly populated and the base we would be calling home for the next year, was not well built up. We lived in tents until we had more suitable housing built or brought in, and MRE's were a daily meal for quite some time. Once we were able to finally get into a bit of a routine a few of us were able to start hanging out in the evenings. We also started having breakfast and lunch together everyday. We would sit around and talk about our days, what friends might be doing back home, and what we were missing out on. We would talk about family, significant others and what we were looking forward to when we got home.
At some point, my good friend who was the Generals Secretary and also worked side by side with my now husband thought it would be a good idea to play matchmaker. However, she wasn't trying to pair me up with the Generals Driver, rather the Sargent Majors Driver. He was nice, a little younger than me, and very sweet to write me such cute notes. But I wasn't all that interested in him. I really wasn't looking for romance in the middle of a war. But some how love and romance found me.
I mistakenly told one of the female sargents I was working with that I thought the Generals Driver was cute. We chit chatted about him a little and then she wanted to see who I was talking about. There were about 3,000 of us in the unit, so it's understandable she didn't know who I was talking about. Anyways, as I proceeded to point him out, she took it upon herself to walk right up to him and tell him what I had said. I was SHOCKED to say the least. So that's where things really started with us. In the middle of war, in the hot sand, trying to help make peace in a far away land.
Fast forward a few years and in October of 2007 we married in the sand. However, this time it was on a beach, in beautiful weather with all of our friends and even a few from overseas. The Generals Secretary was my Matron of Honor, our Chaplain that was overseas with us in Iraq married us, the General was there, and even my husbands gunner who helped keep everyone safe on all their convoys was able to attend.
People always thought that our little war romance would die when we returned home to the states. But I think once you have shared something so life changing, it's hard to even imagine finding someone that will understand what you have gone through. We have been able to process and talk about our time in Iraq with each other. No one but the people we went overseas with will ever understand what it was like, or why we may feel the way we do about things.
Everyday life changes you in smalls ways, but war changes you in so many ways. I'm happy to say that I found the love of my life in the middle of a war. I thank a few good friends for being there throughout the rough times with us and for my husband sticking by me even when I thought I wanted out.
We have a great life together and a beautiful baby boy. We will always share something together that not many can say they have, finding true love while at war.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Monday Menu Planning Week of May 16
Monday - Spaghetti, Fruit, Homemade Rolls
Tuesday - Chimichangas, Corn, and Rice
Wednesday - Quesedillas, and Leftovers
Thursday - Mikaela's Pasta (this is my sisters recipe. Lots of veggies, pasta and a cream sauce)
Friday - Pizza night and any leftovers
Saturday - Grilling out with friends
If you don't know this about me, I like to do easy and new stuff during the week. I almost always do Spaghetti on Mondays. Sometimes it's baked, has chicken instead of ground meat, or I use fun pasta instead of spaghetti noodles. But it's always spaghetti. Fridays, are always pizza night. Most of the time it's a frozen pizza, sometimes we make it from scratch, but this is the best night to eat up leftovers and also have a night off from cooking all week. This week, I am not trying out a new recipe. There is a new Farmer's Market going on for the summer on Wednesdays and I am going to go check it out on Wednesday. Hopefully they will have some great veggies for Thursday's dinner and something I can take to grill out or make a salad for Saturday.
Have a great week everyone! Next week is our California trip. I can't wait.
Tuesday - Chimichangas, Corn, and Rice
Wednesday - Quesedillas, and Leftovers
Thursday - Mikaela's Pasta (this is my sisters recipe. Lots of veggies, pasta and a cream sauce)
Friday - Pizza night and any leftovers
Saturday - Grilling out with friends
If you don't know this about me, I like to do easy and new stuff during the week. I almost always do Spaghetti on Mondays. Sometimes it's baked, has chicken instead of ground meat, or I use fun pasta instead of spaghetti noodles. But it's always spaghetti. Fridays, are always pizza night. Most of the time it's a frozen pizza, sometimes we make it from scratch, but this is the best night to eat up leftovers and also have a night off from cooking all week. This week, I am not trying out a new recipe. There is a new Farmer's Market going on for the summer on Wednesdays and I am going to go check it out on Wednesday. Hopefully they will have some great veggies for Thursday's dinner and something I can take to grill out or make a salad for Saturday.
Have a great week everyone! Next week is our California trip. I can't wait.
Monday, May 9, 2011
First Mothers Day - 2011
Yesterday was my first mothers day and we had a great day. It was a relaxing day, with very minimal whining from Jack, dinner was made for me by David and I just about finished the first book on Shutterfly for Jack. We went for a walk, made cookies, and just spent the day together. No stress, no laundry, a little clean up, but for the most part it was very relaxing. So much so that I asked my husband if we could have mothers day every day. Hehe. Yeah, yeah, I know that isn't going to happen.
Anyways, today we are back to normal and things have been crazy today. Jack is all about grabbing onto the back end of the dog and pushing her around. The only problem is that he pinches so hard that it is hurting the dog. So I had to put her in the other room for a little down time today. She does so well with Jack, but I don't want her to ever feel like she can't get away. With all the things being sold, moved, and changed with the open houses, I'm sure she can feel a change coming. But, for her it will be good. She will be back in Alaska where she will have her buddy back and also be out of this hot weather. I don't think she likes the hot weather any more than I do. I say the colder the better.
Well I am off to search for a few things for my current craft project. I'll post pictures as soon as I get one of them done.
Anyways, today we are back to normal and things have been crazy today. Jack is all about grabbing onto the back end of the dog and pushing her around. The only problem is that he pinches so hard that it is hurting the dog. So I had to put her in the other room for a little down time today. She does so well with Jack, but I don't want her to ever feel like she can't get away. With all the things being sold, moved, and changed with the open houses, I'm sure she can feel a change coming. But, for her it will be good. She will be back in Alaska where she will have her buddy back and also be out of this hot weather. I don't think she likes the hot weather any more than I do. I say the colder the better.
Well I am off to search for a few things for my current craft project. I'll post pictures as soon as I get one of them done.
Friday, May 6, 2011
The Clean Out Has Begun
With the yard sale completed and our first open house done, we are officially on the road to packing up and moving. We sold so many things last weekend and really made a dent in our attic. I still think we have quite a bit of thinning out to do before moving, but for our first sale we did awesome. I have a few things on craigslist.com right now. But for now, we still have until the end of the year before we move, which means we still need everything we are currently using but not taking.
For example: The TV, couch, bedroom set, one bed, desk end tables, coffee table, one of our cars and a few other small things will need to be sold as we get closer to our move date. But for now, if you can imagine a very full attic, now half empty... you would be as excited as I am right now.
Happy Weekend to everyone and hope you are continuing to organize and clean your way to a happier you. Thanks so www.orgjunkie.com for helping me stay on track. You are going to make this move so much easier.
For example: The TV, couch, bedroom set, one bed, desk end tables, coffee table, one of our cars and a few other small things will need to be sold as we get closer to our move date. But for now, if you can imagine a very full attic, now half empty... you would be as excited as I am right now.
Happy Weekend to everyone and hope you are continuing to organize and clean your way to a happier you. Thanks so www.orgjunkie.com for helping me stay on track. You are going to make this move so much easier.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Yard Sale Success
So the yard sale last weekend was a huge success! I of course had been collecting things and pricing them over a few weeks, but for a few hours of work on a Saturday morning we did really well. My husband and I got up around 5:30am thinking that would give us enough time to wake up, get dressed, and get all our stuff out to the driveway by 7am. WRONG! We had a lady show up at 6:15am. We had only a few thing out there, everything was still in boxes, and she wanted to know if she could start looking. I was SHOCKED to say the least. I asked if she could wait a few minutes, but she insisted on helping "HELPING" unpack. But in the end it was find she ended up spending $40.00. So that started our morning out. By 7:00am we hadn't even unpacked everything, but we had made over $100.00. I think I finally got everything out of the boxes like I wanted them, by 7:45am.
People seemed to come in groups and leave in groups. It was like they were following each other from sale to sale. So we would have a surge of people and then nothing for a few minutes. It was like this all morning until we finally packed up what was left at 12:30pm. And that was only because we had some late comers who were sifting through what we had left. They ended up spending about $8 on stuff I was just going to toss so I was happy with that.
It was funny to meet so many different people. We had several groups of Hispanic families. All the kids were doing the bargaining. They would ask for a certain price, I would come up from that, they would talk to their parents, come back with another price, and then finally we would come to a price we agreed on. Others were willing to pay exactly what I had priced the item at, some wanted things for far less than what I had priced it at and they would just walk away when I said I was willing to bargain with them.
Others were quite in their wheeling and dealing with me, some were excited when they found something fun for so cheap. People had many questions about why we were selling our house and so many of our things. Their were people who wanted to stand around and talk... sometimes for what seemed like forever. Others wanted to get in and out as quickly as possible, almost like they were on a race or something. We had drive-bys, neighbors walk through, and people who would ask for specific things. I haven't had a yard sale in quite sometime, and it was so much fun.
Jack was so well behaved. He woke up sometime around 7am. He came out with us and hung out. He slept some, played in his pack and play, smiled at the shoppers, and even played peak-a-boo with a few people. He nursed, ate breakfast, and even played with a few neighbors that stopped by. I was so impressed with him and how well he did all morning long. I am so grateful to have such a wonderful little boy.
So all in all, we made out really well. I think we made enough to pay for our gas and hotels from here to Washington state when we drive across country this winter. Well, that is if the gas stops rising at the rate it's going right now.
If you haven't had a yard sale in a while, give it a try. It can be an entertaining Saturday morning for you.
People seemed to come in groups and leave in groups. It was like they were following each other from sale to sale. So we would have a surge of people and then nothing for a few minutes. It was like this all morning until we finally packed up what was left at 12:30pm. And that was only because we had some late comers who were sifting through what we had left. They ended up spending about $8 on stuff I was just going to toss so I was happy with that.
It was funny to meet so many different people. We had several groups of Hispanic families. All the kids were doing the bargaining. They would ask for a certain price, I would come up from that, they would talk to their parents, come back with another price, and then finally we would come to a price we agreed on. Others were willing to pay exactly what I had priced the item at, some wanted things for far less than what I had priced it at and they would just walk away when I said I was willing to bargain with them.
Others were quite in their wheeling and dealing with me, some were excited when they found something fun for so cheap. People had many questions about why we were selling our house and so many of our things. Their were people who wanted to stand around and talk... sometimes for what seemed like forever. Others wanted to get in and out as quickly as possible, almost like they were on a race or something. We had drive-bys, neighbors walk through, and people who would ask for specific things. I haven't had a yard sale in quite sometime, and it was so much fun.
Jack was so well behaved. He woke up sometime around 7am. He came out with us and hung out. He slept some, played in his pack and play, smiled at the shoppers, and even played peak-a-boo with a few people. He nursed, ate breakfast, and even played with a few neighbors that stopped by. I was so impressed with him and how well he did all morning long. I am so grateful to have such a wonderful little boy.
So all in all, we made out really well. I think we made enough to pay for our gas and hotels from here to Washington state when we drive across country this winter. Well, that is if the gas stops rising at the rate it's going right now.
If you haven't had a yard sale in a while, give it a try. It can be an entertaining Saturday morning for you.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
I'm Breastfeeding In the Newspaper
I am part of an article in the Rocky Mount Telegram on Breastfeeding. I think the article and picture turned out great. If you want to read the whole thing the link is below. Here is the picture of Jack nursing. And yes, that picture is in the newspaper.
http://www.rockymounttelegram.com/features/health/breast-feeding-walks-too-narrow-line-464073
http://www.rockymounttelegram.com/features/health/breast-feeding-walks-too-narrow-line-464073
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Monday, April 25, 2011
Monday Menu Planning - Week of April 25
So I am trying to get back into getting my menus posted. Let me know if you want any of my recipes. Have a great week.
Monday - Spaghetti and veggies (Monday is always spaghetti night)
Tuesday - Shrimp and Sausage Fettuccine and Fruit
Wednesday - Chicken Freezer Bag (Lazy night, cooking from the freezer)
Thursday - Crock Pot Chicken Fajitas and corn
Friday - Pizza, and leftovers
Saturday - I have no idea, maybe we are eating out since it's the big Yard Sale day and we will be worn out from haggling with people.
Sunday - Cooking out with Friends
Monday - Spaghetti and veggies (Monday is always spaghetti night)
Tuesday - Shrimp and Sausage Fettuccine and Fruit
Wednesday - Chicken Freezer Bag (Lazy night, cooking from the freezer)
Thursday - Crock Pot Chicken Fajitas and corn
Friday - Pizza, and leftovers
Saturday - I have no idea, maybe we are eating out since it's the big Yard Sale day and we will be worn out from haggling with people.
Sunday - Cooking out with Friends
Friday, April 22, 2011
Week #16 - Keeping The House In Order
With the house up for sale, trying to organize for a yard sale, and having a baby getting into everything... it's nearly impossible to keep the house in order for it to be shown. Luckily or you could say unluckily we have only had one showing, and that was for the Realtors. I'm finding it very hard to live our daily life and keep the house in a some what clean and presentable manor in case I am called for a showing. It's wearing me out.
I have to say that my awesome son Jack has gotten back on a good schedule this week and is taking some good naps during the day. This is helping me with some clean up and also giving me a few minutes to myself. While I have no pictures to share today, I have managed to price everything that was in the closet and next week I will have pictures to show you of all the stuff I have in the attic that is going in the yard sale one week from tomorrow. Thanks www.orgjunkie.com for keeping me going.
I just wish I could start laying it out and getting it more organized this weekend. Oh did I mention that following our yard sale on Saturday, we have an open house on Sunday. So, I am going to be a crazy lady and try and sell as much stuff as possible. If that means I have to shove stuff in peoples car or beg them to take it with them, so be it. Hehehe. Well I am off to do the dishes and wash diapers. Oh the joys of a SAHM. I'm sure Jack will be up soon and then we are off to the grocery store.
I have to say that my awesome son Jack has gotten back on a good schedule this week and is taking some good naps during the day. This is helping me with some clean up and also giving me a few minutes to myself. While I have no pictures to share today, I have managed to price everything that was in the closet and next week I will have pictures to show you of all the stuff I have in the attic that is going in the yard sale one week from tomorrow. Thanks www.orgjunkie.com for keeping me going.
I just wish I could start laying it out and getting it more organized this weekend. Oh did I mention that following our yard sale on Saturday, we have an open house on Sunday. So, I am going to be a crazy lady and try and sell as much stuff as possible. If that means I have to shove stuff in peoples car or beg them to take it with them, so be it. Hehehe. Well I am off to do the dishes and wash diapers. Oh the joys of a SAHM. I'm sure Jack will be up soon and then we are off to the grocery store.
Ok, so I couldn't post without a picture and I just love this one. They are trying to escape and I just thought it was too cute not to get a picture.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Wordless Wednesday - Door Stop
I think this is so gross but very funny at the same time. My son has come to find that the door stops in our house are the perfect thing to chew on. I do try to stop him but he just goes right back to it. So I thought I would let you all share in the laughs my husband and I are having with this new found teether.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Week #15 - We Are Moving
So if you have been holding out on why we are having a big yard sale, we are MOVING. Yes, moving from our house, from our little town in North Carolina, and all the way across the country to Alaska. That is where I grew up and spent 18 years. My husband and I are ready for a change and now seems to be the perfect timing. Jack is young which will make this move very easy. We will be moving to and away from family. My family is in Alaska and my husbands is here in North Carolina. But we have these amazing things called airplanes now a days which will make it easy to come visit.
Life in Alaska will be less stressful, full of family time, and part-time work for both my husband and I. Having a baby has changed our family and we are realizing what is important. It is important for us to be able to spend as much time together now when Jack is young because kids grow up so fast. Before you know it, they are off with their own friends living their own life. Life is too short to say I'll find time later. There may not be a later if you wait to long.
I've done a little more work on the yard sale items, but most of all I have been selling some big items on Craigslist.com. I have a goal of selling enough stuff to fund at least half of our move up to Alaska. Can I just tell you how crazy it was to even find a moving company that would move our small amount of stuff that we want to take with us to Alaska. In the end we are only shipping it to Seattle, WA and then we will either barge or fly it the rest of the way. The shipping costs from NC to AK were outrageous. And that is with us selling about 75% of our stuff. We are only taking what we need because we will be moving into a fully furnished house.
So this weekend I will be tackling the closet and trying to price out everything in there. We have 2 other families that will be doing the yard sale with us. So I have to get the advertising ready for the newspaper and get our permit. 2 weeks and counting from tomorrow. I can't wait to see how much we sell.
Thank you to www.orgjunkie.com for getting me going on cleaning out and organizing so that I would be better prepared for this move.
Life in Alaska will be less stressful, full of family time, and part-time work for both my husband and I. Having a baby has changed our family and we are realizing what is important. It is important for us to be able to spend as much time together now when Jack is young because kids grow up so fast. Before you know it, they are off with their own friends living their own life. Life is too short to say I'll find time later. There may not be a later if you wait to long.
I've done a little more work on the yard sale items, but most of all I have been selling some big items on Craigslist.com. I have a goal of selling enough stuff to fund at least half of our move up to Alaska. Can I just tell you how crazy it was to even find a moving company that would move our small amount of stuff that we want to take with us to Alaska. In the end we are only shipping it to Seattle, WA and then we will either barge or fly it the rest of the way. The shipping costs from NC to AK were outrageous. And that is with us selling about 75% of our stuff. We are only taking what we need because we will be moving into a fully furnished house.
So this weekend I will be tackling the closet and trying to price out everything in there. We have 2 other families that will be doing the yard sale with us. So I have to get the advertising ready for the newspaper and get our permit. 2 weeks and counting from tomorrow. I can't wait to see how much we sell.
Thank you to www.orgjunkie.com for getting me going on cleaning out and organizing so that I would be better prepared for this move.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Week #14 - Getting Ready for A Yard Sale
So this past week I have been cleaning and purging our stuff. I have been reorganizing my once cleaned out, organized, presentable closets and made one closet the yard sale pile. Well, I do have a huge pile in the attic as well, but that one has been growing up there for a few months. So here is the nice clean closet...
And here is the now messy one, ready to have things priced and sold. Most importantly gone from my house forever!!
Bottom of the closet - Some of these things we are keeping, but I don't have room for them anywhere else in the house right now.
If anyone has any good ideas for getting everything in here priced and ready for my yard sale at the end of the month, your ideas are welcomed. There will be more next week on why I am doing this major clean out. But that is for the next post. I'll have to just leave you in suspense and wanting to come back and read more. Thanks www.orgjunkie.com for getting me motivated to start organizing my home. It has made things easier, as we start on our new adventure.
And here is the now messy one, ready to have things priced and sold. Most importantly gone from my house forever!!
If anyone has any good ideas for getting everything in here priced and ready for my yard sale at the end of the month, your ideas are welcomed. There will be more next week on why I am doing this major clean out. But that is for the next post. I'll have to just leave you in suspense and wanting to come back and read more. Thanks www.orgjunkie.com for getting me motivated to start organizing my home. It has made things easier, as we start on our new adventure.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Monday Menu Planning - Week of April 4
So I know it's Tuesday, but I wanted to post this anyways.
Monday - Crispy Chicken Fettuccine and Fruit
Tuesday - Stroganoff and peas
Wednesday - Smothered Chicken, Rice and Fruit
Thursday - Jerk Chicken, Rice and Beans and Any Left overs
Friday and Saturday we will be at the beach
Monday - Crispy Chicken Fettuccine and Fruit
Tuesday - Stroganoff and peas
Wednesday - Smothered Chicken, Rice and Fruit
Thursday - Jerk Chicken, Rice and Beans and Any Left overs
Friday and Saturday we will be at the beach
Friday, March 25, 2011
Feeling Like a Slacker
So I haven't been blogging very much this month, and not because I don't want to, but because I have been lazy. Jack and I have been fighting colds, not getting enough sleep, and I've been playing catch up with the house work because of it. However, I am happy to announce that Jack has started taking naps by himself. I know some of you out there are probably rolling your eyes or wondering what is wrong with my son that he is 9 months old and can't sleep by himself for a nap. But, when we all came home from the hospital, I just found it easier to sleep and nurse in my recliner. Since I had a c-section, it was hard to get up and down, so Jack just slept with me.
So yes, you could say I did it to myself. But, when I look back on those early days... I was in survival mode. I was just doing what I had to do to get through the days. My body was trying it's best to heal, I was mentally broken from having a c-section which was the last thing in the world I wanted, and my two closest friends were packing up their houses to move far far away.
Anyways, if you didn't know already we are a co-sleeping family. I love it that way and so does my husband. He wasn't a fan at first, but he loves it now. Yes, you could argue that our time alone is lacking if you get my drift, but it's not like there is much time for that anyways. Don't get me wrong... I love my husband. But who really has the energy for anything, after a long day of taking care of a baby. You normally smell like spit up, poop, pee, or BO.... or maybe all four. If you are anything like me, you just want a hot shower.. BY YOURSELF and then a few minutes alone to relax.
Anyways, back to my slacking. I normally find at least one thing to organize, clean out, or clean each week. www.orgjunkie.com got me going on this and I thank her for that. This week I have to say that even though I have been a slacker, I did accomplish something.
I cleaned, scrubbed, whitened, caulked, and sealed my tile shower and bathtub. Yes, little old me did it. I have yet to test out the seal since I just finished that this afternoon and it has to sit for 48 hours. But I have to say it look pretty damn good. If you know anything about tile showers, they need to be sealed. Well we are coming up on 4 years in this house and have been fighting the whole time with mold and mildew in the shower. It's DISGUSTING!!!! So I finally decided it was time to stop scrubbing all the time and fix the problem. So, come Sunday when we get back from our vacation we will see if it all worked.
I wasn't thinking when I started and I didn't take any before pictures. But I'm sure you can imagine gross black and brown nastiness in the grout lines. I'll post an after picture when everything is dry. Have a great weekend everyone. We are off to Florida!
So yes, you could say I did it to myself. But, when I look back on those early days... I was in survival mode. I was just doing what I had to do to get through the days. My body was trying it's best to heal, I was mentally broken from having a c-section which was the last thing in the world I wanted, and my two closest friends were packing up their houses to move far far away.
Anyways, if you didn't know already we are a co-sleeping family. I love it that way and so does my husband. He wasn't a fan at first, but he loves it now. Yes, you could argue that our time alone is lacking if you get my drift, but it's not like there is much time for that anyways. Don't get me wrong... I love my husband. But who really has the energy for anything, after a long day of taking care of a baby. You normally smell like spit up, poop, pee, or BO.... or maybe all four. If you are anything like me, you just want a hot shower.. BY YOURSELF and then a few minutes alone to relax.
Anyways, back to my slacking. I normally find at least one thing to organize, clean out, or clean each week. www.orgjunkie.com got me going on this and I thank her for that. This week I have to say that even though I have been a slacker, I did accomplish something.
I cleaned, scrubbed, whitened, caulked, and sealed my tile shower and bathtub. Yes, little old me did it. I have yet to test out the seal since I just finished that this afternoon and it has to sit for 48 hours. But I have to say it look pretty damn good. If you know anything about tile showers, they need to be sealed. Well we are coming up on 4 years in this house and have been fighting the whole time with mold and mildew in the shower. It's DISGUSTING!!!! So I finally decided it was time to stop scrubbing all the time and fix the problem. So, come Sunday when we get back from our vacation we will see if it all worked.
I wasn't thinking when I started and I didn't take any before pictures. But I'm sure you can imagine gross black and brown nastiness in the grout lines. I'll post an after picture when everything is dry. Have a great weekend everyone. We are off to Florida!
Friday, March 18, 2011
Organizing - Veggie Garden
Okay, so since I have been sick and really very unproductive. My wonderful veggies have been doing what they are supposed to... GROWING. So I have two of the three steps done and I thought I would share them with you. I planted my seeds the last weekend of February and they are all sprouting now.
Yesterday, Jack and I put my planter together and it is ready for the dirt and plants. I still need to go and get my strawberry plants and maybe a few herbs, but I'll do that this weekend.
So here are my plants and planters. I am going to try my hand at growing the following things here in North Carolina this summer. Bell Peppers, Squash, Zucchini, Broccoli, Kale, Onions, Carrots, Potatoes, Strawberries, and maybe a few herbs.
This is all I could get organized this week. Maybe I can get back on track next week and get another box or two out of the attic to sort. Wouldn't that be great.
Have a great day and have fun organizing.
Yesterday, Jack and I put my planter together and it is ready for the dirt and plants. I still need to go and get my strawberry plants and maybe a few herbs, but I'll do that this weekend.
So here are my plants and planters. I am going to try my hand at growing the following things here in North Carolina this summer. Bell Peppers, Squash, Zucchini, Broccoli, Kale, Onions, Carrots, Potatoes, Strawberries, and maybe a few herbs.
This is all I could get organized this week. Maybe I can get back on track next week and get another box or two out of the attic to sort. Wouldn't that be great.
Have a great day and have fun organizing.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
A Stay At Home Mom Never Gets a Day Off
So for the last two weeks, either Jack or I have been sick. There has been no time for blogging or getting any kind of house work done. But I have found a few minutes while my little guy naps to get some writing done. For those of you that are moms you know this well.... We never get a day off. If we are sick, we still have to take care of the kids. This makes it really hard to get the rest we need to feel better. Oh the life of a stay at home mom. Wouldn't it be nice to never get sick.
This weekend should be beautiful weather and I hope to get my planter set up and my veggies planted. I would also love to get my flower bed weeded and ready for the summer. But this all hinges on the fact that I feel better. Having a head cold really sucks. Just getting dinner made it a chore all in it's self and I love to cook.
I hope to get some kind of organizing done this weekend and get all of this clean laundry folded and put away. I love that it's clean, but having it sit in baskets it driving me crazy. I also need to find something for the recycling bin since Jack wants to chew on the cardboard box I am using now. Yuck.
Have a great weekend everyone and Happy St. Patrick's Day.
This weekend should be beautiful weather and I hope to get my planter set up and my veggies planted. I would also love to get my flower bed weeded and ready for the summer. But this all hinges on the fact that I feel better. Having a head cold really sucks. Just getting dinner made it a chore all in it's self and I love to cook.
I hope to get some kind of organizing done this weekend and get all of this clean laundry folded and put away. I love that it's clean, but having it sit in baskets it driving me crazy. I also need to find something for the recycling bin since Jack wants to chew on the cardboard box I am using now. Yuck.
Have a great weekend everyone and Happy St. Patrick's Day.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Wordless Wednesday - Nothing is More Beautiful Than This
Mendenhall Glacier, Juneau, Alaska
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Monday Menu Planning - Week of Feb 28
This week we are having one new recipe and everything else is stuff we like and is easy to make.
Monday - Spaghetti and Fruit
Tuesday - Swedish Meatballs, Mashed Potatoes, Peas
Wednesday - Chicken Quesadillas, Rice, Fruit
Thursday - Chimichangas, Corn, Rice
Friday - Pizza and Leftovers
Saturday - Grilled Italian Dressing Chicken, Grilled Peppers, and Rice
Next week I am going to start writing up my recipes that I am using. That way if any of you want to try them out there are there for the taking.
Have a great week. Cook something great!
Monday - Spaghetti and Fruit
Tuesday - Swedish Meatballs, Mashed Potatoes, Peas
Wednesday - Chicken Quesadillas, Rice, Fruit
Thursday - Chimichangas, Corn, Rice
Friday - Pizza and Leftovers
Saturday - Grilled Italian Dressing Chicken, Grilled Peppers, and Rice
Next week I am going to start writing up my recipes that I am using. That way if any of you want to try them out there are there for the taking.
Have a great week. Cook something great!
Friday, February 25, 2011
Week #8 Organizing - Caught up on Laundry
So we were on vacation last week for 11 days. It was a great vacation and nice that I didn't have anything I had to do at home. However, when we returned from vacation, there was a lot to do. I always clean my house before leaving on any kind of vacation. That way when I return there isn't a lot to do. I can ease back into my regular life without the stress of cleaning up a messy house.
Why is it, that when you open your suitcase, it some how explodes all over the place? This always seems to happen in our house. We had 4 bags and one carseat and we managed to have stuff everywhere. Laundry had to be done, since our bags arrived wet. Which meant almost everything in them was wet. So Three days later, and a round of cloth diapers I finally finished the laundry. It's all washed, folded and put away. There are a few things that need to be hung up still. But, it's done.
Our son has discovered the cabinet doors open, so I ran around this week behind him with hair ties and put elastic bands around the knobs that I could tie together. I guess that will be a project this weekend. Baby proof the cabinets. FUN. Oh, and hopefully we can get our taxes finished up. Everything has finally arrived in the mail so we should be able to accomplish that as well. Hope you all had a great week.
Happy Organizing!
Why is it, that when you open your suitcase, it some how explodes all over the place? This always seems to happen in our house. We had 4 bags and one carseat and we managed to have stuff everywhere. Laundry had to be done, since our bags arrived wet. Which meant almost everything in them was wet. So Three days later, and a round of cloth diapers I finally finished the laundry. It's all washed, folded and put away. There are a few things that need to be hung up still. But, it's done.
Our son has discovered the cabinet doors open, so I ran around this week behind him with hair ties and put elastic bands around the knobs that I could tie together. I guess that will be a project this weekend. Baby proof the cabinets. FUN. Oh, and hopefully we can get our taxes finished up. Everything has finally arrived in the mail so we should be able to accomplish that as well. Hope you all had a great week.
Happy Organizing!
Monday, February 14, 2011
Monday Menu Planning - Week of Feb 14
We are on vacation this week!! So we will be eating out a few times, since we are in my home town. Lots of places to visit in such a short amount of time.
Places We Will Eat At This Week:
Olivia's (Mexican)
Peter's Oriental
Utter Culture (Sandwiches and Frozen Yogurt)
Breeze Inn (This is just donuts, YUM)
Bullwinkle's (Pizza)
Seafood - from my mom's freezer
Can't wait!
Places We Will Eat At This Week:
Olivia's (Mexican)
Peter's Oriental
Utter Culture (Sandwiches and Frozen Yogurt)
Breeze Inn (This is just donuts, YUM)
Bullwinkle's (Pizza)
Seafood - from my mom's freezer
Can't wait!
Friday, February 11, 2011
Week #6 Organizing - The Everything Closet
So I have been slowly working on getting my EVERYTHING closet organized. It has everything in it. Car stuff, tools, sewing, crafts, decorations for inside and out, cake decorating, cook out stuff, computer stuff, paper stuff, pictures, and gift wrap. So as I said, it's my EVERYTHING closet.
Before Picture (Can I just say... this is embarrassing!)
This week I went and got 6 clear bins with lids and divided up some of my stuff that was all over the place. So now I have the following:
Scrap fabric Bin
Baby Project Bin
Fabric Bin
Decorations Bin
Paper Craft Bin
Assorted Crafts Bin
I also have new cookie cutters that I got for Christmas. The box of them was 101 cookie cutters. I already had a few, so I got a pink bin for them. I also had several small shoe size clear bins that I emptied or had on hand. I used them for my cake decorating stuff, which is becoming a bit overwhelming.
After Picture (Still more to be done, but a great start)
The closet is not where I would like it to be, but it is much better. There is much more room in the closet now, and I could probably set my sewing machine back up in there. Anyways, more improvements to be made, but that is what I could accomplish this week with an 8 month old tagging along and emptying my bins as I filled them. Oh, what fun it is to think you have finished one thing to only turn around and realize it is all over the floor again. The joys of having children. Never a dull moment.
Have a great weekend and happy organizing.
This week I went and got 6 clear bins with lids and divided up some of my stuff that was all over the place. So now I have the following:
Scrap fabric Bin
Baby Project Bin
Fabric Bin
Decorations Bin
Paper Craft Bin
Assorted Crafts Bin
I also have new cookie cutters that I got for Christmas. The box of them was 101 cookie cutters. I already had a few, so I got a pink bin for them. I also had several small shoe size clear bins that I emptied or had on hand. I used them for my cake decorating stuff, which is becoming a bit overwhelming.
After Picture (Still more to be done, but a great start)
The closet is not where I would like it to be, but it is much better. There is much more room in the closet now, and I could probably set my sewing machine back up in there. Anyways, more improvements to be made, but that is what I could accomplish this week with an 8 month old tagging along and emptying my bins as I filled them. Oh, what fun it is to think you have finished one thing to only turn around and realize it is all over the floor again. The joys of having children. Never a dull moment.
Have a great weekend and happy organizing.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Wordless Wednesday - I'm a Dog Too!
So here are some of the pictures I was able to get of my sweet little boy carrying around a silicone cupcake wrapper. He loves to chew on these and for some reason this past week he has decided to carry them around like a dog would carry it's toy. I just think it's the cutest thing. Enjoy!!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Monday Menu Planning - Week of Feb 7
Monday - Chicken Spaghetti, Crescent Rolls (YUMMY), fruit
Tuesday - Pumpkin Spice Pork Chops, Apples, Couscous
Wednesday - Burgers, Fries, Veggie
Thursday - Pizza and Any Leftovers
Friday - LEAVING FOR VACATION!!!
Saturday and Sunday - ON VACATION
So for some reason I can't seem to get my menu posted on Monday. It's kinda funny because I always have it done on Saturday or Sunday before. Anyways, I think after I get back from vacation I will try to start typing it up before Monday and even post my recipes. Have a great week everyone!!
Tuesday - Pumpkin Spice Pork Chops, Apples, Couscous
Wednesday - Burgers, Fries, Veggie
Thursday - Pizza and Any Leftovers
Friday - LEAVING FOR VACATION!!!
Saturday and Sunday - ON VACATION
So for some reason I can't seem to get my menu posted on Monday. It's kinda funny because I always have it done on Saturday or Sunday before. Anyways, I think after I get back from vacation I will try to start typing it up before Monday and even post my recipes. Have a great week everyone!!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Week #5 - Paperwork Clean Out
So this week, I haven't been very successful in getting organized. However, I have thrown out a TON of paperwork. I tackled the file box that I store everything in for the year. I found a few things I had forgotten about for the taxes and I got everything I needed into one file for taxes. Now we are just waiting for a few more things to come in the mail and we are good to go. Anyways, now that I have my file box ready to go for 2011, I thought it would be good for me to go through a few other things. So I got out my red bag of old gymnastics stuff with a huge pile of paperwork in it, and started organizing that. Well, most of it was TOSS or KEEP. But now, I have a whole lot less junk paperwork, that should have been thrown out years ago. I don't have any pictures, but I would think that a file box full and now empty would be kinda boring anyways. I'm pretty sure everyone can picture it in their heads. Happy organizing everyone!
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Wordless Wednesday - Baby In A Bin
Happy Baby In A Bin
Let Me Outta Here
Hmmm, Is This Eatable?
Oh, Doesn't Taste So Good!
So I really needed to get a few good shots of him for his 8 month pictures put he is getting really fast and grabs the sign. So I had to get creative. I am behind this week on my posts. I know it's Thursday, but better late than never right? Anyways, I hope you enjoy!
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Monday Menu Planning - Jan 31
Monday - Spaghetti, rolls, fruit/veggies
Tuesday - Crockpot Soy Garlic Chicken, mashed potatoes, roasted zucchini and onion
Wednesday - Crockpot Sloppy Joes, Fries, Fruit
Thursday - Moo Shu Chicken Wraps
Friday - Pizza, veggies
Saturday - Eating Out
Sunday - Meatloaf, potatoes, peas
Tuesdays meal is a new recipe and I will be using the leftover chicken to make Thursdays dinner. I always try to have at least one new recipe on the menu and everything else is stuff we like and it generally easy to make.
Tuesday - Crockpot Soy Garlic Chicken, mashed potatoes, roasted zucchini and onion
Wednesday - Crockpot Sloppy Joes, Fries, Fruit
Thursday - Moo Shu Chicken Wraps
Friday - Pizza, veggies
Saturday - Eating Out
Sunday - Meatloaf, potatoes, peas
Tuesdays meal is a new recipe and I will be using the leftover chicken to make Thursdays dinner. I always try to have at least one new recipe on the menu and everything else is stuff we like and it generally easy to make.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Week #4 Organizing Challenge - Or Lack There Of
So I don't have any pictures to add this week, because I didn't get any of the things I wanted to get done this week. I did however get an awesome cake made for a retirement party which I will post pictures of. My hope for today is that I can get my house picked up and all of my cake and craft stuff put away. Anyways, here is my cake I made this week. Maybe I will get my file box sorted, cleaned out, and ready for 2011 today. I promise I'll take pictures when I get it done.
Oh, I did start to get things cleaned out in the attic. I have several boxes for a yard sale, and I took pictures of things that are keepsakes, but I really don't want to store any more. I can't remember where I got the idea, maybe from, www.orgjunkie.com. Anyways, I am going to start a photo album of keepsakes that I would like to remember, but just don't want to store away in boxes in my attic any more. That way I will have them to show my kids one day if they ask. Plus every time we move, we aren't moving boxes of stuff that is never opened or used. Yeah, for de-cluttering and getting rid of stuff!
Oh, I did start to get things cleaned out in the attic. I have several boxes for a yard sale, and I took pictures of things that are keepsakes, but I really don't want to store any more. I can't remember where I got the idea, maybe from, www.orgjunkie.com. Anyways, I am going to start a photo album of keepsakes that I would like to remember, but just don't want to store away in boxes in my attic any more. That way I will have them to show my kids one day if they ask. Plus every time we move, we aren't moving boxes of stuff that is never opened or used. Yeah, for de-cluttering and getting rid of stuff!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
What Makes Us Stay at Home Moms Vs. Working Moms
Since becoming a mom, I have heard many other moms talk about how they either love being home with their kids or couldn't wait to get back to work after their maternity leave. I have started to wonder, what is in us that makes us want to be stay at home moms or working moms? I know there is that other factor we have to think about... paying the bills. But I wonder, why do women say they couldn't stay at home?
Why do they say, they are a better mom when they go to work? YES, I have heard this.
Why do they think they couldn't be around their children all day?
Here is what I wonder and ask my husband when I hear women say this... "Then why do they have children?" Is there someone out there that can help me with this question? I have always known, that when I had a child, I would make it work so that I could stay home. One way or the other, I would be there for my child. I had no desire to have children and then send them to daycare all day. I want to be the one to feed them, care for their every need, watch them grow, take their first step, say their first word, watch as they explore new things, and be there to kiss their boo boos when they fall.
So, do mothers who work and enjoy working feel they are missing out? Do they feel bad, or is this just the way they were raised and feel this is normal for them?
I also wonder what daycare is doing to the past few generations. Have any of you noticed how spoiled and bratty children are getting? Have you noticed how parents never think their children could do any wrong? Have you noticed how parents think their children are perfect in every way? Have you noticed if an adult approaches the parent about a problem with the child they become so defensive?
Is there something wrong with the way we are raising our children, have things changed so much? When did we stop teaching our children to say please and thank you? When did we stop teaching our children to be polite to everyone? When did we stop teaching children to share?
I'm finding that with more and more people working full-time and leaving their children with caregivers at day cares, there seems to be some disconnect. Parents start to feel guilty, which in turn leads to spoiling their children when they have time to spend with them. Because let's be honest, how much time does a working parent really get to spend with their child? A typical day starts around 8:30am so here is what a typical parents day would look like.
6:30am - 7:30am - Wake up, Eat, Shower, Get dressed, Feed Children, Dress Children
7:30am - 8:00am - Get into the Car, Drop Off the Kids, Get to Work
8:30am - 5:30pm - Work
5:30pm - 6:00pm - Pick up the kids, Drive Home
6:00pm-8:00pm - Cook Dinner, Eat Dinner, Bath time, Homework, Playtime
8:00pm - Kids into bed
So If you look at that, you are getting about an hour and a half of quality time, and that is if you don't have kids that have to do homework. Somewhere in this crazy world we have gotten away from what is really important... FAMILY. Our days are filled with paying bills, running errands, working, chores, and phone calls. Sometimes we just need to stop and take a minute to realize that life is quickly passing us by. Our kids will be grown before we know it, and have their own fast paced lives. Take advantage of the time you have with them now, because before you know it, that time will be gone. I am grateful that I am able to stay at home with my son. Not to say that we don't have our crazy days, but I wouldn't trade them for anything.
So, are you a stay at home mom who loves her full time job of caring for her children? Or are you that full time working parent? I would love some feedback as to how you made your decision to stay at home or go back to work after having children.
Why do they say, they are a better mom when they go to work? YES, I have heard this.
Why do they think they couldn't be around their children all day?
Here is what I wonder and ask my husband when I hear women say this... "Then why do they have children?" Is there someone out there that can help me with this question? I have always known, that when I had a child, I would make it work so that I could stay home. One way or the other, I would be there for my child. I had no desire to have children and then send them to daycare all day. I want to be the one to feed them, care for their every need, watch them grow, take their first step, say their first word, watch as they explore new things, and be there to kiss their boo boos when they fall.
So, do mothers who work and enjoy working feel they are missing out? Do they feel bad, or is this just the way they were raised and feel this is normal for them?
I also wonder what daycare is doing to the past few generations. Have any of you noticed how spoiled and bratty children are getting? Have you noticed how parents never think their children could do any wrong? Have you noticed how parents think their children are perfect in every way? Have you noticed if an adult approaches the parent about a problem with the child they become so defensive?
Is there something wrong with the way we are raising our children, have things changed so much? When did we stop teaching our children to say please and thank you? When did we stop teaching our children to be polite to everyone? When did we stop teaching children to share?
I'm finding that with more and more people working full-time and leaving their children with caregivers at day cares, there seems to be some disconnect. Parents start to feel guilty, which in turn leads to spoiling their children when they have time to spend with them. Because let's be honest, how much time does a working parent really get to spend with their child? A typical day starts around 8:30am so here is what a typical parents day would look like.
6:30am - 7:30am - Wake up, Eat, Shower, Get dressed, Feed Children, Dress Children
7:30am - 8:00am - Get into the Car, Drop Off the Kids, Get to Work
8:30am - 5:30pm - Work
5:30pm - 6:00pm - Pick up the kids, Drive Home
6:00pm-8:00pm - Cook Dinner, Eat Dinner, Bath time, Homework, Playtime
8:00pm - Kids into bed
So If you look at that, you are getting about an hour and a half of quality time, and that is if you don't have kids that have to do homework. Somewhere in this crazy world we have gotten away from what is really important... FAMILY. Our days are filled with paying bills, running errands, working, chores, and phone calls. Sometimes we just need to stop and take a minute to realize that life is quickly passing us by. Our kids will be grown before we know it, and have their own fast paced lives. Take advantage of the time you have with them now, because before you know it, that time will be gone. I am grateful that I am able to stay at home with my son. Not to say that we don't have our crazy days, but I wouldn't trade them for anything.
So, are you a stay at home mom who loves her full time job of caring for her children? Or are you that full time working parent? I would love some feedback as to how you made your decision to stay at home or go back to work after having children.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Monday Menu Planning
Monday - Baked Spaghetti
Tuesday - Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
Wednesday - Frozen Dinner from the Frezzer
Thursday - Shrimp and Sausage Pasta
Friday - Pizza
Weekend - Out of Town
I normally cook more, but my husband has 2 evening events this week and I hate to cook for just me when I have a little one to take care of. Happy Cooking!
Tuesday - Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
Wednesday - Frozen Dinner from the Frezzer
Thursday - Shrimp and Sausage Pasta
Friday - Pizza
Weekend - Out of Town
I normally cook more, but my husband has 2 evening events this week and I hate to cook for just me when I have a little one to take care of. Happy Cooking!
Friday, January 21, 2011
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Wordless Wednesday - Passed Out
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| Passed out in the recliner - forgot to put on a cover, thank goodness he didn't pee though his diaper |
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
The Attic
So I'm not sure about your house, but the attic is that place where everything gets placed when I either don't have room or don't know what to do with it. Since I had a little time yesterday, I thought I would tackle the organization of it. I forgot to take a before picture which would have been awesome. But I knew I didn't have long to get it done before the baby woke up.
The last few months the attic has been used a lot. There are tons of boxes of baby things, clothes that either used to fit, don't fit, or are maternity. There are things that need to be sold in a yard sale and things that are just keepsakes. So I organized everything into groups. I now have the following areas in my attic.
Baby
Keepsakes
Travel
Camping Gear
Empty Boxes for the next move
Yard Sale
Clothing
And... A need to go through area
I have to say, that when I went up there yesterday I could hardly walk around without falling back down the hole I climbed up. Now there is tons of room to clean out the 4 or 5 boxes that need to be gone through and find the things I need every so often.
Thanks www.orgjunkie.com for the motivation!!!
The last few months the attic has been used a lot. There are tons of boxes of baby things, clothes that either used to fit, don't fit, or are maternity. There are things that need to be sold in a yard sale and things that are just keepsakes. So I organized everything into groups. I now have the following areas in my attic.
Baby
Keepsakes
Travel
Camping Gear
Empty Boxes for the next move
Yard Sale
Clothing
And... A need to go through area
I have to say, that when I went up there yesterday I could hardly walk around without falling back down the hole I climbed up. Now there is tons of room to clean out the 4 or 5 boxes that need to be gone through and find the things I need every so often.
Thanks www.orgjunkie.com for the motivation!!!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Competed Projects
I was able to accomplish a few things so far and wanted to post some pictures. I wish I had been on top of things enough to have before pictures of these, but these have been a work in progress for over a week now. It's so nice to see what you have available to use in your day to day life and not spend tons of time looking for what you know is some where in that mess of a house.
Bathroom Cabinet
Spice Cabinet
Bathroom Cabinet
Spice Cabinet
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