One Pony-sized peice of Childhood

As a child I didn't have a dollhouse or many dolls, but I did have a collection of My Little Ponies. My first pony was Cotton Candy... one of the original 6 ponies sold in the early 1980s. After that I added a few other ponies to my collection. I even remember a sea horse that I took into the bathtub with me. I wish I had a few of those today to share with my daughter. Who would have ever thought they would see a comeback.

Well, as with many of my beloved childhood pals even the My Little Ponies have been given a make-over. They are slimmer, trimmer and smaller,




but just as lovable.



Lucky for us there is a great giveaway going on over at the Fabulous Won where Hasbro is giving one lucky ready their own My Little Pony. This giveaway is running through January 4th. Easy to enter! Good luck.

Get Your Flirt On... in the kitchen

I love to cook, bake and spend lots of time "playing" in my kitchen. I say 'my' kitchen because that is really my room ... and it is all mine. But I don't have a good apron. In fact I have one that I made as a 4-H project about 18 years ago and one that is stained and worn. So, when I found these little beauties my heart went aflutter!



These are just too cute! And there are many more to choose from on the Flirty Aprons sight. Be sure to head over to Baby Loving Mama for your chance to win your choice of Flirty Apron. This giveaway runs till January 13th. Don't miss out!

Here are two of my favorite aprons they offer, but truly it would be difficult to choose just one. Not only do they offer great aprons for women, but they have aprons to children and men, too!

And if that wasn't good enough for you, there is another chance to win one of these fabulous Flirty Aprons over at The Mom Reviews

Many chances to win here, too! And this giveaway runs through January 8th.

I Want My Body Back,..

Okay, It is New Year's Eve and I am taking a hard look at what my goals should be for 2010. As cliche as it may sound, I want to get in shape. I want my pre-baby body back. I really do miss it and am still not sure whose body I now have. I know, how many years have I put that down? Well, even so, my body is currently a disaster zone... I spill out every which way, things sag, they jiggle and they bulge. Not really a pretty picture at the moment since I am not made of jell-o. Now, I am terrified to get in front of a camera right now.... maybe for this challenge I will overcome my fears and bring you a little before pic. I am not really comfortable with my current look and it has only been the past 2 years that I have been so out of sorts.

Now, I have a wonderful DH who loves and supports me as well as two amazing kiddos who got me to where I am today (I promise not to hold that against them!). Two babies in two years is a really tough thing on a body. I would love to say this is just for my health, but who am I kidding? I want to look good in those non-maternity pants! ...without the added help of spanx!

My goals are simple... loose weight and get moving with my kids. This past weekend I got a new pair of shoes and a new Nike + sensor for my Ipod Touch. Have you guys ever used one of those? I love them! Just use it while walking or running to record your workout and then upload it to the website to log it. If you are competitive, like little ole' me, you can join in on virtual challenges with other people around the world. I used to have about 20 walking challenges going at a time and would walk a few times a day to make sure I stayed in the top 10 of each. I work well with competition.

I also hope to get stronger. I would love to have those washboard abs, but I think my genetics are working against me! I would be happy to get back into yoga and pilates. There is something about those moves that always makes me feel strong and fearless. Grrrr.....

Tomorrow I will get on the scale... maybe I will also post my pic. I am just glad that other bloggers will be on this challenge with me. I really hope to be inspired and share a few words of encouragement. I have a long road ahead of me and many pounds to shed. Tomorrow is a good day to get my body back!

Thank you Samantha, over at Mama Notes, for this great bloggie challenge! There are many other great gals doing this also and I can't wait to get to know them all. If you are interested in losing your baby weight be sure to link up and join the fun.

Wordless Wednesday

This is what Big Brothers & Little Sisters are all about.
More here Wordless Wednesday fun posted here, and check out www.sevenclowncircus.com, too!

Another V.Smile Chance

Do I sound like a broken record yet? Well, low and behold another Vtech giveaway has popped up and I am in line to add it to my household. As you might have noticed, I have been trying to win one of these for a while... and bear with me, I will keep at it. I would love to win a V.Smile Motion Active Learning System

The Mommy-Files is giving one lucky reader their very own System. *standing on tip-toes and waving hands* Pick me!

V-Tech toys brings us this winner. Not only a gaming system, but one that encourages activity. That sounds pretty good to me! A good edition in any home where you can't always get out to play, but there is energy to be burned. My little man is a bundle of energy, but I can't always bundle up my new baby and go outside with him. We don't have a backyard so to get outside and find a place to play is no small feat.

This is another one of my most frequented and favorite sites. Be sure to take a look around and enter some of her other great giveaways.

Christmas Vacation's Vacation

Okay, now that the holidays are definitely over in our house I am ready for that vacation now. My DH's birthday happens to fall on the 26th, so there are 3 days straight of merry making going on here, but it always leaves me feeling exhausted. Happy, but exhausted. I have many post ideas whirling around in my head and I hope to get them down soon.

My biggest goal is to get my Body After Baby Challenge post up. The wonderful gal behind Mama Notes has invited others to join her as she posts her progress (wonderful accountability, no?) along her post baby get-in-shape journey. I believe she is working towards her next pregnancy, but as many of your know I am done and just ready to reclaim my body. ...or, at least make friends with my new one. I had 2 babies in under 2 years and have the mid section to prove it. So this year will be a wee bit more me focused as I try to get healthier (I will never be called a waif!) and juggle the kids.

Wish me luck!!!

Preparing for your New Year's Spread (giveaway!)

Looking for a way to stretch your entertaining dollar? How about a Walmart GC Giveaway over at The Not So Blog . I don't know about you, but I still have parties to go to and food to make! Christmas just seems to be the begining around here. Coming up is New Year's, and then the Rose Bowl... where my beloved Ducks will be playing this year. (Go Ducks!)

Right now you can find some great info on Walmart's website about creating an entire New Year’s Day meal for 10 people under $40! You can find all sorts of great tips and recipes at Walmart’s Holiday Meals .


Be sure to enter this great giveaway and take a look around The Not So Blog. It is a great blog with a fabulous selection of reviews and giveaway opportunities. Enjoy!

Where are all the boys clothes?

If you have a son, you know what I mean. When I was awaiting the birth of my little boy I was in super shopping mama mode. I was entering territory completely foreign to me and my husband. I was so excited to start stock piling all sorts of little items and was disappointed when I found most boys clothing unimaginative and...well, boring! I think I had to work twice as hard to find outfits for my little man. I am not a big sports fan and didn't want to outfit him in all "little slugger" or "Mommy's Linebacker" clothing. With my husband and my genes he is not destined for brute force contact sports! Usually I can find cute items from Zutano, Gymboree, Osh Kosh and often Old Navy. But even then it takes a little looking.

Today I stumbled across a great giveaway at Ladybugs and Tonka Trucks for
The Boy's Store



They have a great selection of boys clothes from several great brands. I wouldn't mind outfitting my little man in some of their shirts sporting construction equipment. My son would love to wear it while he watches his construction video from All About.

The Giveaway is for a $25 Gift Certificate and would go pretty far with some of their fabulous sale items right now. Hurry over to Ladybugs & Tonka Trucks to enter to win today. As always, easy ways to enter and while you are there check out the rest of her site and other giveaways. Enjoy!

One Size Cloth Diaper Event

Yes, not exactly a adventure into food... but, well kind of an adventure on the other side? I love my cloth diapers and am always trying to feed my stash. It is an expensive habbit!!! But, now with 2 little bottoms to keep diapered I have the need to expand my diaper stash. I always get excited to find out about good cloth diaper giveaways and will continue to post them here for my readers to enjoy. I guess I assume that if you care about what goes into your body, you care about what covers your baby's bottom. (Ne?) So, here is a great

One Size Cloth Diaper Event

Chari just shared her list of sponsors on her Take Time To Smell The Rose blog and I was immediately drooling over it. I would love to win any of those products for my little ones. Wouldn't you? ...oh, yeah! She will be hosting a one-size cloth diaper event starting January 1st. 22 One-Size cloth diapers will be featured and given away. Now that is what I call an event. I hope she doesn't do this very often, or I might never sleep again...

She also has some extra entry possibilities if you blog and post her buttons.... shoot! Did I just say that? I really do just blurt things out.

Enter & Enjoy!

Wordless Wednesday (almost)

My toddler got himself stuck in his sister's jumper.

For more Wordless Wednesday fun go HERE

Top 10 ways to get fit after the holidays

EA and TwitterMoms have a contest going and asked bloggers to share our top ten tips for getting fit after the holidays. I know, with all the hustle and bustle to get the last minute gifts, food all prepared and the family ready for the big day, the last things we think about is our health. I love this time of year! Mashed potatoes, pecan pie and even candy canes make it difficult to stick with even the best fitness routine. So, lets look forward and get back on track


1. Just get everyone moving! I have little ones, so the simple things can be incorporated to get me moving. Kids need fresh air, shoot! I need it too. I will be putting both kids in the double stroller and heading outside. We may have to bundle up, but it will be good for all of us. We will also spend some time playing with the kids which is bound to burn off some calories! Kids love tag and hide and seek.

2. Change your bad eating habbits. Enjoy the last of the food on Christmas! Now, I will be using the turkey or ham bones to make soup, ...nice soup with whole grains or legumes... but the other fattening fare will go away after the holidays. After 2 days of eating turkey and the trimmings it is nice to change the menu... and healthier. I won't throw out those cookies or cake, but stash it in the freezer for later. A girl does need a treat every once in a while!

3. Get rid of temptations and start with a new slate. As preparation for the new year, I plan on cleaning out my fridge and pantry after the holiday. Why not start fresh? Then fill the empty spaces with healthier choices. Throw out the creamy salad dressing that was put in the fridge who knows when! ...and then pick out a nice vinaigrette that appeals to you. The little things add up.

4. Start those resolutions early, but keep them simple. I will start walking once a day. I did before my daughter was born this year and I am finally ready to start leaving the house and exercising again. I have other things to try also, but will start with just one very doable item to begin with.

5. Hold yourself accountable. Whether you need to write it down in a journal or go online and crunch the calorie numbers, just putting it down will help to make it real. I often loose track of what I eat during the day, but seeing it down on paper reminds me when it is getting out of control.

6. Get enough rest. It is much easier to stick with something if you are well rested and feeling good. The better I feel, the more I want to work out. The best "vicious" cycle ever!

7. Take time to reward yourself. Even if this just means a few minutes to read in the morning, or that evening jog. Be good to yourself. Again, if you feel good, you are more likely to take care of yourself.

8. Get support. Exercise is so much more enjoyable when you are comfortable. Find the right sports bra and supportive wear. I just had a baby, so I need all the help I can get! Defying gravity will help me to run farther and jump higher.

9. Get support. No, not another bra tip... find supportive people to help you. My son helps me by dancing with me in the living room, my DH goes on walks in the evening with me and helps to push a stroller. Get healthy recipe ideas from friends or family. There is support out there, you might just need to look for it.

10. Give yourself a break! It doesn't have to happen overnight. This is a life investment in yourself. Just keep moving and having fun. Your health will follow.

These are my little ideas. I always get in the swing of things after the holidays and look forward to spring and getting out more. But, what do you do to get fit after the holidays? Feel free to comment here and share your ideas or go over and share your tips atTwitterMoms. You will be entered to win a EA SPORTS Active™ Personal Trainer – the highest rated Wii™ fitness product to date for use on the Nintendo Wii system!

Are you a proud Baby wearin' Mama?

Okay, so not everyone wants to wear their baby, but it seems like it is the fashionable thing to do these days. Everyone I know has at least one carrier, but everyone argues about which is the best. I personally have a Baby Bjorn from when my son was a baby... and with my little girl we bought a Moby Wrap. I love them both for different situations. One carrier that came up over and over in conversation was the Ergo Carrier.

I loved the versatility of the product. Wear it on your front, back, hip etc. The other thing that really appeals to me is the weight range. With the newborn insert, a new baby can be carried as well as a toddler.

When my son was just over a year old he became very sick. It ended up involving 2 trips to the ER, several office visits, a change of pediatrician, an internist visit as well as food and drink issues for over 3 months straight. I was delirious from lack of sleep and all my little boy wanted was to be held. Thank goodness for baby carriers! Even though he was no longer a baby, I still got a lot of use out of my carrier.

The Ergo Carrier has received high reviews from all my friends, but the price was a little out of my range. I wouldn't have hesitated if it was our only baby carrier, but this time around it was a big expense. If I had a "do over" would I get one of these? Absolutely! I think it could easily take the place of the 2 that I have now.

Good News! One of my favorite blogs, the Fabulous won is currently running a giveaway for one of these fabulous carriers. (Her blog seemed destined to host this one for that "fabu" reason!)



So, go and sign up for the Ergo Carrier Giveaway today, and while you are there check out her blog and enter her other great giveaways. Good luck! (... just not too much, I want this carrier for my new little girl.)

Smiling with the V-Smile!

So, this Christmas seems to be all about electronics for my son. Yes, he is starting young, but there are just so many new and creative options for him to play and move while indoors. As an Oregonian that is very important. Some days I just can't get it all together enough to get the kids out of doors. So here is a great option.


Mogul Baby is having a great giveaway for one lucky reader to win their own V.Smile Motion Active Learning System. There are several ways to gain entries to increase your chances.

What makes this system great? Well, it is actually made for toddlers and it is all battery powered so very portable. My son tries to play with us on the Wii, but it is still a little beyond his abilities. I think this might be the best solution. Some of the games I have in mind are the Cars Game (which we already have for the Vtech Pocket and the game works on both!) and I would love to get him the Thomas the Tank Engine Game. There are lots of other options, too!

So, go over and enter.... or if you can't wait to see if you win, Visit Vtechkids.com. and order one today.

Things that go Vrrrrroooommm! - Automoblox

What do little boys like? Basically anything that moves! We went through the Elmo (lovingly called "Lala" in our house) stage and now my little toddler is all about transportation. At first it was just airplanes... then he saw a helicopter (currently called "Boop") and now he has added Thomas the Tank Engine and trucks of all sizes and shapes. So, basically my son loves anything that moves. I came across these great cars on the Simply Being Mommy blog. Yes, they are a bit more expensive than we usually spend on his Hot Wheels and Tonka trucks, but they are very cool! ...and they wouldn't get lost under my oven.


With my son's love of trucks I am sure he would love this one. I love good quality wooden toys for my children. I think he might appreciate they more in a few years... my husband would probably get a kick out of them anytime! I would love to see one of these under our tree in the future. Even I wouldn't mind playing with these. I keep wondering if my husband could build a track for them...? Hmmm...

Well, luckily there is a great giveaway going on right now over at Simply Being Mommy. You can enter to win either a large car or the set of three smaller cars. Either a great choice! There is even a pink car for those girls who want to play, too.



This giveaway runs until January 4th at 10 pm, so there is still plenty of time to enter.

Fuzzy & Friendly Hats - Buddytops!

I love cute! It really is my favorite part of having children... oh yeah, and the unconditional love I feel for them! But, between the late night feedings, sleepless nights and tantrums being able to enjoy the cuteness of baby and toddler stuff, well... it helps me get through sometimes. I am an "ear" fan. What is that? Well, I am a fan of any clothing... sweaters, hats, sweatshirts etc. that have ears on them. And yes, I also go hog wild for the knit fruit hats. Someday I plan on knitting my son the chicken hat I saw online a few years back. But, that is another post. That brings us to this winter and the yearly quest to find the perfect hat for my new baby and toddler. My husband is always concerned about warmth and I always hope we can find one that is also cute.

I was so excited when I saw these BuddyTops over at Blogger Mommies and Annies Home. They definitely qualify as being cute. So many different styles to choose from I would have a difficult time choosing just one. I really love the two tigers and the wolf. (We already ordered the Panda, but don't let my son know!) I would love to use one of these for a Halloween costume next year, and I bet they will be dress-up favorites all year long.

So I know if you take a look at the website, you will want your own BuddyTops for the little people in your life. If you want to enter for either of these contests, either click on the links above or the buttons below or on my giveaway blogs listing to the right. Good luck! These will definitely bring a little cute into your life, too!



This one ends today, so hurry and get your entry in! Good odds as they are going to pick 2 lucky winners.

Shop Annies (sorry, I can't seem to grab her adorable button today... but just click on the link) ENTER HERE has her contest running until January 8th, so many opportunities to enter!

So, there are two great sites and 3 chances to win your very own Buddytop. And while you are there, be sure to look around and enter some of the other great giveaways currently running. Is it your lucky day?

Vtech and a little bit of sanity time!

What could be better than a Vtech Giveaway? Well, over at Baby Loving Mama right now , there is a giveaway where you can choose between several great Vtech products if you win. Oh, yeah!

I entered. Who wouldn't want a few more hours of Mommy sanity time. If I win, I will choose the V.Smile Motion Active Learning System. It looks fabulous. We already have Vtech's V.Smile Cyber Pocket, but that is a bit too advanced for Owen. When he is ready, I know it will be a valuable tool for getting through those trips to the Metabolic Clinic.

Okay, what are you waiting for? Go over and enter to win your product of choice, and while you are there enter some of the great other contests. Or, if you can't wait visit Vtech for more product details and options for ordering.

Everything you EVER wanted to know about me.... and Chistmas.

I grabbed this from Nicolle at Babee Love, & she grabbed it from Tiffany at Stuff Parents Need

Please feel free to join in on the fun and post your own answers on your blog, and then post a link in the comments!

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? I adore Egg Nog! Though, in the last few years we switched to Silk Nog and love it just as much. We have a local dairy here that has the best nog and we splurge once over the holidays. Even then we cut it with regular milk and I add nutmeg to the top. Yummy!

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Usually wrapped! But, this year I might run out of paper and money. It is okay, my kids are still little.

3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? All white on the tree and twinkly!

4. Do you hang mistletoe? Not right now. I have little kids and worry about them ingesting it.

5. When do you put your decorations up? I put stuff up mid December and we take it down after the new year... as soon as I can muster up energy and time.

6. What is your favorite holiday dish? Anything fattening. Anything seasonal. Anything I should eat in moderation. So, just about all of it. Though top of my list is the pecan pie and mashed potatoes. For Thanksgiving my in-laws threw cream cheese in the potatoes... heaven help me!

7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child? I loved being the first one up to see the tree with all the presents underneath. Just magical.

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? When I realized the handwriting was all the same on each package. What can I tell ya. I was one skeptical kiddo.

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? My family always did gifts on the Eve and stockings on Christmas Day. Now my DH's family does one family's gifts on one day and the others... well, on the other.

10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree? My parents were collectors, but I have a hard time finding small enough ornaments... or a big enough tree. For now I stick with glass icicles and snowflakes... sometimes I use simple red balls. Simple, simple.

11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? Love it! It really puts my ski loving DH in a good... and slightly amorous mood. :)

12. Do you remember your favorite gift? I don't tend to remember the gifts so much. Usually the food is more memorable to me. I still remember the disappointment at finding a tamale casserole as the main course one Christmas dinner. I had to go almost 2 years without my turkey and trimmings.

13. What’s the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Seeing and spending time with family. I also love the food. Yum!!!

14. What is your favorite holiday tradition? My family would put on Christmas music (Manheim Steamroller) and sip hot cocoa as we decorated the tree in our p.j.s. Just loved that.

15. What tops your tree? For now an old fashioned topper (don't know what to call it... tall with two rounded parts?). I am still working on making our angel for the top. (haven't started it, but I have opened the package and looked through the instructions!)

16. Which do you prefer giving or receiving? With kids of my own I now love giving. I am so excited to share Christmas with them.

17. Candy Canes: Yuck or Yum? Yum! What can I say? I love sugar. They are also dandy in baked goods.

18. Favorite Christmas Show? The old animated How the Grinch Stole Christmas

19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? I love Nat King Cole and his version of O' Tannenbaum. Just wonderful. Though, I might have to make room in my heart for a song off of Andrea Boccelli's new Christmas album. I think I am falling in love.

Whew! You made it to the end. Now your turn. Be sure to leave me a link so I can read yours, too! Happy Holidays everyone.

Win a Dollhouse!

This is a fabulous giveaway opportunity! Be sure to head over to Melissa & Doug (wonderful toys all around and a big hit in our family!!!) for your chance to enter to win this dollhouse & dolls.

I know this is exactly the kind of dollhouse I would love to give my little girl and as with all of their products, I am sure it will last many years of being loved by my children. Goodness, I wouldn't mind playing with this, too!

This giveaway is running through December 16th, and it couldn't be easier to enter. Just head over to the site: MelissaAndDoug.com and find another toy you would love to have for your kids. Super easy! I would love the Puppet Theater, what about you?

Last Minute Gift Help... it doesn't have to break the bank!

TwitterMoms & Staples are here again with another great and timely topic... they are looking for tips to get all y'all ready for the holidays. Now, there is not a lot of time left before the big day so let's get started!

My personal favorite is to make gifts. With the economy the way it is, we don't need to spend a lot to show we care. This doesn't mean things have to be boring! I love to bake, preserve and cook so last year I made homemade mustard and bread for many friends and family members. The key is to add a personal touch to your gift. Staples has a fabulous selection of paper, pens, and art supplies to personalize your gifts. Give a jar with all the dry ingredients for a favorite baked item. Decorate a label for your jar with the instructions, name or even a fun photo. You can find all those good things around your house or at Staples. Then add a ribbon and a wooden spoon or festive touch. Easy!

Scrapbooking is another great gift, personal and memorable! You can either do it on paper or now digitally. Not really scrapbooking per se, but a laminated "book" was given to my son with all the family members pictures in it. It was made at Staples and was a great tool to teach names and familiarize him with everyone. I would love to make a new one soon and add his health care professionals and friends to it also!

One great handmade gift my Mom did for me years ago was to design stationery for me. I had personalized letters and envelopes. Today not as many people write letters, but maybe because they don't have fun personalized stuff. I will do this for my kids when they are older. It could also be a great time to do that for your thank you cards. Everyone loves a personal touch.

And last, but not least, one quick tip I learned on Staple's website was to save time by shipping from their store. I don't know about you, but I am really tired of waiting in USPS lines to ship items. I thought this was a great tip and plan to use it if we ship anything. For more great tips, check out this link:
http://www.staples.com/sbd/cre/marketing/holiday09pr/tips_from_mom....

Remember time is running out, but there are lots of great gifting options are available. Happy Holidays Everyone!

Suprise! A Gift I won't Forget.

As a Mom of two little ones, I have to tone down my desires for them for Christmas. After 30 plus Christmases & many gifts of all shapes & sizes I only really remember a handful of them. So, maybe I need to keep that in mind when I am agonizing over gift choices for everyone.

When I was 12, I loved basketball & everything to do with the Chicago Bulls or Michael Jordan! I had my heart set on getting a black & red Michael Jordan basketball, and my Grandma Mary came through for me. She lived in Indiana while I was in Oregon, so I rarely saw her. She always overcompensated for this at Christmas. So, how is a basketball so memorable? Well, I did play with that ball a lot ... though my professional career was cut down in Junior High due to genetics (I am a mere 5 ft 4 inches), but it ended up being the story behind said ball that makes it so unforgettable.

I guess she searched high & low for the ball I wanted, but it was all sold out everywhere she went. Not wanting to disappoint her only granddaughter she kept looking. She finally found it at the last possible minute, but to get it she had to have an entire room re-carpeted! It was a promotional giveaway at her local carpet store. That meant a lot to me... not that I understood the cost involved at the time, but I appreciated that she had to do something special to get me that ball.

This question and contest were to brought to you by TwitterMoms & Target.com be sure to check out TwitterMoms and all the other great posts on this same question..."What was the Most Surprising Gift You've Ever Received? Tell Us & Win a $100 Target Gift Card!" and share a little sponsor love and visit Target for your holiday needs.

Sharing over the Holdiay Season...

Twittermoms and Robeez Footwear recently posted a question & contest for bloggers. "How do you give back during the holidays?" This is a topic I can run with! Not only does my son... and soon my daughter! ... love , love, Love those shoes! But, this is a chance to talk about the most important part of Christmas. -Good will toward men! Also, Robeez will be donating a pair of soft sole shoes to K.I.D.S. with every soft sole purchased through December 23rd Buy a pair here...ROBEEZ GIVES BACK

There is so much joy and holiday spirit going around right now. As you are rushing to finish off that Christmas list and furiously wrapping and hiding gifts... take a few minutes to think about how your family can give back. Not everyone is as blessed this holiday season. Some are lacking in physical items and others are lacking in loved ones to share this holiday with.

Currently I am staying at home with 2 small children, so we are tight, but comfortable financially. There is enough money to feed and clothe all of us, put a roof over our heads and allow us a few small treats for the holiday season. Oh what I would do if I had unlimited amounts of money to spend on my family, friends and the community. I can dream, can't I? As it is I was given a wonderful opportunity to "pay it forward" with a gift of a car seat. I recently won 2 car seats from a Graco online giveaway and was able to donate one to our local Battered Person's Advocacy Center. This is a cause close to my heart since my husband and I both volunteered there as high school students. I was just so tickled that we could do something great for a family trying to start over in a safer place.

Since I am not made of money, we usually try to help others where we can. Last year I baked bread and made fruit butters and other goods to give out to young, single coworkers at my husbands workplace. He works at the local newspaper and we are constantly trying to help the young reporters who are far from home and just scraping by as they start out on their own. I never mind sending my husband with extra food to brighten up their ramen filled lives.

The easiest thing we can do as a family is to open our doors to others who cannot make it home to see their own family for the holidays. This has been a long tradition in my family. It started with my Grandparents. They would make multiple turkeys, hams and fixings for a revolving door of neighbors and friends who were alone for Christmas. My parents often had a guest or two at our family table. In college I liked to bring home exchange students to celebrate with us. We definitely have more than enough joy and love to share.

So, as you check and double check your list this year,... furiously clean for company, ... and cook and then eat your weight in Christmas goodies, think about what you can do to make this a magical season for others. You don't have to spend a lot, just give a little bit of yourself.

Great Clothing Giveaway Opportunity!

The Blog Two of a Kind is currently hosting one fantastic giveaway! They are giving away 2 Bei Bamini Clothing packages... $1188 worth of clothing! These packs are for girls and are set sizes... but, so worth it if you have a little girl within those sizes or know someone who is.

There are some other great giveaways currently going on there also. Be sure to enter soon as this one will end on 12/15.
Enter here for the Bei Bambini Giveaway
If you like this, be sure to check out the Bei Bambini website! They have a lot of really cute clothes for both boys and girls. I could shop there for hours.

It's all about Soup!

I love soups, but I tend to really crave them at the strangest times of year! -The hot times! One of my goals (I refuse to say "resolution") for 2010 is to have a nice homemade soup at least once a week. This is an attempt to be healthy, frugal and prompt me to use more of my fresh bread/roll recipes. Nothing says comfort to me more than a hot bowl of soup & warm fresh bread. I have been feeding my sourdough starter over the past couple of days and am about to crack open the bread books... I am just itching to try something new. Maybe a roll recipe?

Tonight I will be making a creamy potato and bacon soup. I can't wait. Yum!

Good Dolls Are Hard To Find...

Since I found out I was having a girl, I went wild with visions of the girlie items about to enter my life... tea sets, hair ribbons, pink and of course dolls! I had a few dolls when I was young, all were rag doll types and a few were handmade for me by family friends. I used to spend hours putting on tea parties and playing school with them. So, of course I want to get a great doll for my little girl.

The hunt was on and I was rather dissappointed at what my options were. I don't live in a large city, and we don't have a toy specific store. Our local big box stores carry a large selection of dolls, but they are all plastic! Now, I have nothing against modern plastic/rubber dolls... but, they just don't seem as cuddly and loveable as a soft rag doll. If I had more time I would attempt to make one for her myself, but as it is I exist on 3-4 hours of sleep a night! Then I stumbled upon the Adorable Kinder Rag Doll by Granza, Inc. My search was over!

The doll pictured is Dulce, and I am convinced that my daughter needs this doll. These dolls are not inexpensive, but with the craftsmanship and beauty I am sure they are worth it. That and I have heard nothing but good reviews about them. So, luckily I found a great giveaway where one person will win their very own Adorable Kinder Doll.



There are a whole variety of dolls to choose from to fit your child. The entry methods are pretty standard and super easy. You don't want to miss out on this opportunity! Enter the Giveaway here!

Happy 70th Birthday Madeline!

There are somethings from childhood that I can't wait to pass on to my new daughter, Audrey. She is a cutie! I really enjoyed the videos and stories about Madeline when I was young... so, it is natural that I am all excited to share.

I was pretty excited to see that Madeline was turning 70 this year! Boy does she look good. She is a nice contrast to some of the glamorous and not so wholesome characters of today. Does it get much cuter than little Madeline? Okay, maybe her dog.

I was so excited to see one of my favorite blogs featuring a giveaway about this little character.



As always, there are many great ways to win over at The Experimental Mommy. So, what are you waiting for? Just hurry! This giveaway ends soon. Enter the Madeline Giveaway Here

Zip Over to get yourself a Zippity!

One of the must-have items on my Christmas list for little man is the Leapfrog Zippity. According to the website "It is a full body learning system that gets kids moving". Sounds perfect for my active and curious little toddler!

Luckily, there is a great giveaway going on now (through the end of today!) for one of these great game systems. It is easy to enter, and wouldn't it be a nice surprise for the busy little one in your life? The Zippity can also be purchased online for $79.99.

Remember, the Experimental Mommy as always has a slew of other great giveaways going on, so be sure to visit her site often!

And if that wasn't enough for your.... head over to

She has a Week of Leapfrog giveways to tempt you with! While you are there, you can enter to also win a Leapfrog Tag Jr. and some other great items. You don't want to miss out on these giveaways so be sure to follow and subscribe to her blog so you won't miss a single opportunity.

More on the Zippity.... Though it comes with some games already in the system, you can buy a Cars game (top of my list with my little Cars fan!) , A Disney Princess Game and also a new one for The Princess & the Frog. Have you seen the movie? I can't wait to see it.

Okay, that about sums it up! Remember to check out and enter the Zippity giveaways at both The Experimental Mommy & Cool Baby Kid. Maybe one of us will be the lucky winner!

Where have you gone, my Love?

It is amazing how life has changed, yet again! Children tend to turn things on end, and with the addition of little girl I find myself drooling over my cookbooks from afar. I recently won a new one and have barely thumbed through it. With what time? 2 children are twice the mouths to feed and definitely 4x the bums to diaper. Maybe baby steps? My sourdough is sitting out on the counter, fed and calling to me. I want to get back to baking bread at least once a week to begin with. I will post all my yeasty good times with the faithful sourdough.

Stay tuned!....

Fox Paws Shoe Giveaway! Ends 12/9

You have to take a peak at these shoes. I don't know if a baby can get much more fashionable that this! I really like their Giraffe Boots. Honestly, tiny shes always look good to me. Foxpaws is generously offering one lucky reader the Classic Giraffe shoes in size 2. Find this giveaway over on The Coolest Kid Reviews!

Enter to win here: http://coolestkidreviews.blogspot.com/2009/11/foxpaws-shoes-giveaway-10-off.html

Ends 12/9! Hurry and get your entries in.

... More Bubbles, anyone?

Another fantastic SodaStream Giveaway people! You can win a Fountain Jet Soda Lover's Start-Up Kit (approx. $100 retail value) over at another great blog, Toddler Momma





I know you have read all the stats before... but remember, this is soda with you in the driver's seat! You control the syrup and the carbonation! Don't we all love to take control in our lives? ... and such a yummy way to go about it. I am not a soda junkie (though, I sound like it, don't I?) but, I really would love to have this machine as a great treat for my family.

There are many chances to win and this giveaway runs through December 20th @ midnight EST!

The Importance of Bedtime Routines

It is inevitable. Sometimes bedtime will be bumpy... or even akin to all out war when a toddler is involved. My son was wonderful both at naptime and bedtime until recently. Now he occasionally trys to challenge his bedtime. But, with a few solid bedtime rules, the structure pays off and it never lasts very long.

I have to give credit where it is due and say my MIL was the one who helped us get a handle on bedtime.

First she taught us to respect our babies needs. When Owen was really young he would hit that crazy/fussy period about 9pm every night. We dreaded that time of night and each took turns till the wee hours of the morning bouncing and rocking our crying little guy. We were exhausted and grumpy. Once we realized he was overly tired by 9pm and started his bedtime routine at 8pm we stopped the late night marathons. Now as a toddler, his cues are different. He winds up and bounces off the walls. When we start to notice this behavior, we get him to bed as quickly as we can.

That brings me to my next tip: The all important bedtime routine. I know, we are all busy and who has time for a "routine"? Well, it saves time in the long run. This routine gives the child a cue of what is to come. Children love structure and being comfortable with that structure. Everybody has a different way of setting up a routine. Just try some things and see what you can stick with. Some people use baths, music, stories, quiet games etc. For our two year old we start by getting on an overnight cloth diaper on and p.j.s. , then my son finishes out his medical formula for the evening (to regulate his PKU) and we supplement with enough of his required phes., we brush teeth, then a kiss to the rest of the family, a book or two, turn on the Turtle nightlight and then off to bed. There are sometime requests made or pleading to get back out and play but we hold firm, reassure him and within a few minutes he is off to sleep.

Holding firm is probably one of the most difficult but important tips I could offer. Once you give-in, they will keep pushing the next time. We call this our non-negotiable.

My Fourth tip would be to offer some comfort items for your child. We have a bunch! We have a CloudB twilight turtle that our son turns on before going to bed, a white noise machine and his lovey to go to bed with him. His lovey is a relatively new item that he won't go to bed without. I chose a Gund Puppy Blanket before he was born and kept it with him from the start. It is a cross between a blanket and a stuffed animal. I am so tickled that he loves it.

My last tip has to do with staying in bed... My DH and I try to be compassionate, but firm about sleeping in the crib. If he wakes up at night we often go in and pick him up for a bit, then we put him back. I make an exception if he is sick, or had a bad dream. Then he comes in to snuggle with us. And honestly, I don't mind a little snuggling!

Good luck with your own bedtimes and sweet dreams!


Thanks to Twitter Moms and www.DramaU.net for the post idea and hosting this giveaway! The first 100 bloggers to enter win a pink Cozy to giveaway on their blog. Wish me luck!