Momma Hopes:
~ I hope that I will be the kind of Mom that will teach H to be independent and to take care of herself - even in tough times, instead of passing blame, being responsible for her own decisions and actions.
~ I hope that I will support her by teaching her how to live her life self sufficiently and not by hoping others will hand her a golden egg.
~ I hope that I instill values like the ones that have kept me independent and not reliant on others mercy. Those values are work hard, play hard and treat others the way you would like to be treated.
~ I hope I teach her that SHE is responsible for situations in her life. I will be here to help her but not to bail her out every time. I want her to learn how to bail herself out so that she can feel that sense of self accomplishment.
~ I hope that I won't be the kind of mom that spends what I don't have in order to look like a hero but, instead, acts the hero by showing H options to help herself out.
~ I hope to teach H the value of friendship
~ I hope to be both H's friend and mommy - providing discipline with a large side of fun and love!
~ I hope to have open lines of communication that includes sex, drugs, alcohol and any new craziness like sexting (or whatever is the "new" thing when she is a tween, pre-teen, teen). I want her to know that I am here for her with all the tools necessary to keep her safe without looking like a total prude.
~ I hope that I can drive her to be driven. Not just look at classes but at education. Not just look for a job but a career. Not to be tied up in mainstream society but in her beliefs as an individual.
~ I hope that I can have answers...at least most of the time.
~ I hope that I can live up to these hopes. I think it will be detrimental to H's independence and self assurance if I don't.
~ I hope to be the best mom I can be to the best girl I have ever known.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Where does the time go...BUT GIVEAWAY TIME IS HERE!
Ok, I first said Monday, then Hump Day and then I disappeared in a dark abyss. Ain't that just the way...nothin' but a tease (versus a bad perm). Anyway, I am happy to say I am here with some awesome news! It is giveaway time!
As you know from my last giveaway, I am proudly supporting my sister-in-law on her new business venture - Baby Cakes. She hand makes adorable MUST HAVE items for those with babies (or those needing to find the perfect gift for someone who has a baby or is going to have a baby). Last week we featured her handy sippy cup/bottle strap that I happen to use daily with H. It is a life saver for those times when she is in her high chair (or a high chair at a restaurant) and she wants her sippy. You can clip it on your high chair cover or the chair itself and, when the baby pushes, throws or drops the cup overboard, the strap catches it before it hits the beer stained carpet below (no, not speaking of my house - that was if it were in a restaurant, thank you very little!).
This week is a special treat for those with (or those who know) baby girls. I was one who always thought (for the whole one or two years I thought I even wanted a baby)that I wanted a boy. Always felt I would be a better boy mom than a girl mom. Not in to fru-fru pink stuff. I am into sports...I wanted a boy I could enjoy sports with. On and on.
But then I had a girl. Only the best, most beautiful, most amazing and fun baby girl EVER! Am I biased you ask? Ummm...hell yeah.
All of a sudden my dreams of khakis and button down collared shirts turned to ruffled sleeves, pretty dresses, bloomers and tutus. Not sure how that happened but it is only getting worse, not better.
Now, the giveaway is for a very adorable, hand-made, crocheted headband made in colors of YOUR choice that best suits your baby (or the baby of the long lost friend inviting you to her seventh baby shower). I will admit...quite fully actually...that I was never into the headband frenzy. They always seem too tight and leave a mark similar to the waist band of my pants on the fragile head of a new baby. I never did get the flowers that would grace a newborn's head that was bigger than the baby themselves. It just wasn't something I was into.
But things change as quick as the baby themselves. I still don't want a flower or anything bigger than her face but a headband doesn't seem to be out of the question. Especially when it is the color of the football team of our choice!! NOW we are talking a language I can understand!
The awesome thing about the Baby Cake headbands is that you can either get them "fitted" or you can get them so that you can TIE them to the size of your baby's head. I opt'd for that option. It is AWESOME because I can tie it to the EXACT size of her head without leaving that horrendous waist band mark on her little buddha head.
That being said, because these headbands are crocheted, they have great stretch ability! So it will not be tight even on the largest of beanies. What a great concept.
The colors you can choose from (yes, you get to CHOOSE your color combos from the options on their website... even with the giveaway) are almost endless. I'm actually serious. So let your creative juices flow!
Not only that, but you can choose from a large flower or a small flower. Now, here is something else to blow your mind. The flowers are CLIPPED on so that you can remove them if you want JUST the headband and/or you can use the clipped-on flower as an accessory all by itself! So, really? You are looking at THREE hair accessories in ONE! Pretty cool!
Here are some shots of my baby and my step-daughter with their Baby Cake headbands. I apologize for them being blurry. My husband had the camera on a business trip so I had to use my phone. And it is obviously better with phone calls than with pics! But hopefully you can get the idea and then hit the Baby Cakes Facebook page for more photos!
My sweet H with the headband and small flower
My sweet H with JUST the headband
My gorgeous step-daughter with the LARGER flower
The girls with the complete look! Thanks to Baby Cakes!
Now, usually when bloggers do giveaways, they receive the product for free. I bought these two items myself because I loved them so much (and I didn't feel right begging for free stuff - haha!!). I am looking forward to a full (and successful) football season with the girls sporting these cute headbands.
Ok, time for the rules to enter this giveaway (VERY easy):
Mandatory entries
1. Become a follower of my blog (would love to have ya!). If you are already a follower, please note that you are.
2. Become a follower of Baby Cakes blog - click here.
For additional entries
1. Become a "fan" of Housewife Facebook page
2. Become a "fan" of Baby Cakes Facebook page
3. Leave a comment on Baby Cakes Facebook page of which colors you prefer.
4. Suggest a friend - each friend that enters the giveaway (must at least do the mandatory entries) will earn you another entry!
5. Mention this giveaway in your blog and link back to this page
Please leave a SEPARATE comment for EACH entry you make that includes your EMAIL ADDRESS.
Edited to add: DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES IS MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2010 AT MIDNIGHT EDT
Ready, set, GO!!
As you know from my last giveaway, I am proudly supporting my sister-in-law on her new business venture - Baby Cakes. She hand makes adorable MUST HAVE items for those with babies (or those needing to find the perfect gift for someone who has a baby or is going to have a baby). Last week we featured her handy sippy cup/bottle strap that I happen to use daily with H. It is a life saver for those times when she is in her high chair (or a high chair at a restaurant) and she wants her sippy. You can clip it on your high chair cover or the chair itself and, when the baby pushes, throws or drops the cup overboard, the strap catches it before it hits the beer stained carpet below (no, not speaking of my house - that was if it were in a restaurant, thank you very little!).
This week is a special treat for those with (or those who know) baby girls. I was one who always thought (for the whole one or two years I thought I even wanted a baby)that I wanted a boy. Always felt I would be a better boy mom than a girl mom. Not in to fru-fru pink stuff. I am into sports...I wanted a boy I could enjoy sports with. On and on.
But then I had a girl. Only the best, most beautiful, most amazing and fun baby girl EVER! Am I biased you ask? Ummm...hell yeah.
All of a sudden my dreams of khakis and button down collared shirts turned to ruffled sleeves, pretty dresses, bloomers and tutus. Not sure how that happened but it is only getting worse, not better.
Now, the giveaway is for a very adorable, hand-made, crocheted headband made in colors of YOUR choice that best suits your baby (or the baby of the long lost friend inviting you to her seventh baby shower). I will admit...quite fully actually...that I was never into the headband frenzy. They always seem too tight and leave a mark similar to the waist band of my pants on the fragile head of a new baby. I never did get the flowers that would grace a newborn's head that was bigger than the baby themselves. It just wasn't something I was into.
But things change as quick as the baby themselves. I still don't want a flower or anything bigger than her face but a headband doesn't seem to be out of the question. Especially when it is the color of the football team of our choice!! NOW we are talking a language I can understand!
The awesome thing about the Baby Cake headbands is that you can either get them "fitted" or you can get them so that you can TIE them to the size of your baby's head. I opt'd for that option. It is AWESOME because I can tie it to the EXACT size of her head without leaving that horrendous waist band mark on her little buddha head.
That being said, because these headbands are crocheted, they have great stretch ability! So it will not be tight even on the largest of beanies. What a great concept.
The colors you can choose from (yes, you get to CHOOSE your color combos from the options on their website... even with the giveaway) are almost endless. I'm actually serious. So let your creative juices flow!
Not only that, but you can choose from a large flower or a small flower. Now, here is something else to blow your mind. The flowers are CLIPPED on so that you can remove them if you want JUST the headband and/or you can use the clipped-on flower as an accessory all by itself! So, really? You are looking at THREE hair accessories in ONE! Pretty cool!
Here are some shots of my baby and my step-daughter with their Baby Cake headbands. I apologize for them being blurry. My husband had the camera on a business trip so I had to use my phone. And it is obviously better with phone calls than with pics! But hopefully you can get the idea and then hit the Baby Cakes Facebook page for more photos!
My sweet H with the headband and small flower
My sweet H with JUST the headband
My gorgeous step-daughter with the LARGER flower
The girls with the complete look! Thanks to Baby Cakes!
Now, usually when bloggers do giveaways, they receive the product for free. I bought these two items myself because I loved them so much (and I didn't feel right begging for free stuff - haha!!). I am looking forward to a full (and successful) football season with the girls sporting these cute headbands.
Ok, time for the rules to enter this giveaway (VERY easy):
Mandatory entries
1. Become a follower of my blog (would love to have ya!). If you are already a follower, please note that you are.
2. Become a follower of Baby Cakes blog - click here.
For additional entries
1. Become a "fan" of Housewife Facebook page
2. Become a "fan" of Baby Cakes Facebook page
3. Leave a comment on Baby Cakes Facebook page of which colors you prefer.
4. Suggest a friend - each friend that enters the giveaway (must at least do the mandatory entries) will earn you another entry!
5. Mention this giveaway in your blog and link back to this page
Please leave a SEPARATE comment for EACH entry you make that includes your EMAIL ADDRESS.
Edited to add: DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES IS MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2010 AT MIDNIGHT EDT
Ready, set, GO!!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Today was a long day...seems like I have been up forever. Wait, I have! But it was a good day. A good day after many that were a bit more challenging. More emotional. I felt great today - especially after my workout. Can you believe that H stayed awake all the way home and ended up taking a two hour nap
IN HER CRIB? I just kept her up until she seemed to be too tired to continue playing...it was around 11 or so. I hope tomorrow she will do the same. It was nice to shower and get some event work done during that two hours! Thanks H!
I was hoping to kick the week off with another giveaway from Baby Cakes but they are in the process of adding some more kick butt inventory and I need to get my stash of very cute, handmade headbands so I can include a picture of my sweetie with the goods! So I decided to make hump day the giveaway day! Don't miss it!
In other news, there is just so much other news. I need to carry around a stack of sticky notes so that I can write down the flood of thoughts I have throughout the day. They always pop in mind when it is inconvenient to take notes - running on the treadmill, changing a diaper, hitting the head, showering (quickly)...
I must say, though, the growing trend in most of my entries is my sheer exhaustion. It isn't necessarily H's fault (although she usually wakes up once or twice a night for some grub)...I just don't seem to sleep well anymore. I don't know if I am just anticipating the wake up call so I don't allow myself to really get to that deep sleep or what.
You know...I will take a post it - or just some sort of writing instrument and paper...around with me tomorrow and see what I jot down. Maybe I will simply relay my thoughts in that random way just for fun. You would be amazed how my head works on a daily basis!!
Question - do you ever notice that, when you watch something on TV where the people smile a lot (I am watching...not sure why...Ms Universe) you end up smiling as well? I was just noticing how my face was kinda hurting and then realized why. I was smiling with all of the fake smiles I was watching. Not for nothing.
Goodnight. Random thoughts heading your way tomorrow!
IN HER CRIB? I just kept her up until she seemed to be too tired to continue playing...it was around 11 or so. I hope tomorrow she will do the same. It was nice to shower and get some event work done during that two hours! Thanks H!
I was hoping to kick the week off with another giveaway from Baby Cakes but they are in the process of adding some more kick butt inventory and I need to get my stash of very cute, handmade headbands so I can include a picture of my sweetie with the goods! So I decided to make hump day the giveaway day! Don't miss it!
In other news, there is just so much other news. I need to carry around a stack of sticky notes so that I can write down the flood of thoughts I have throughout the day. They always pop in mind when it is inconvenient to take notes - running on the treadmill, changing a diaper, hitting the head, showering (quickly)...
I must say, though, the growing trend in most of my entries is my sheer exhaustion. It isn't necessarily H's fault (although she usually wakes up once or twice a night for some grub)...I just don't seem to sleep well anymore. I don't know if I am just anticipating the wake up call so I don't allow myself to really get to that deep sleep or what.
You know...I will take a post it - or just some sort of writing instrument and paper...around with me tomorrow and see what I jot down. Maybe I will simply relay my thoughts in that random way just for fun. You would be amazed how my head works on a daily basis!!
Question - do you ever notice that, when you watch something on TV where the people smile a lot (I am watching...not sure why...Ms Universe) you end up smiling as well? I was just noticing how my face was kinda hurting and then realized why. I was smiling with all of the fake smiles I was watching. Not for nothing.
Goodnight. Random thoughts heading your way tomorrow!
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Hidden in the woodwork
It is time for a new series. I always have a ton to talk about but not a lot of time (or energy) to write. But I am thinking if I periodically have "series" that I can turn to, it will help keep me motivated to write. No worries. I will write more about my overly exciting life from time to time as well.
Hidden in the Woodwork gives me an opportunity to share with you strange, different, uncommon or not well known things in our world that is swept under the carpet or just not really prevalent in our everyday lives. It may lead to debate or controversy but it will most certainly (or hopefully) open your (and my) eyes to new lifestyles, view points and theories.
So to kick off my new series Hidden in the Woodwork I must share with you something I came across while browsing the internet while H slept on me for two additional hours after her first hour in her crib. When I read some of these stories and blogs about this lifestyle, I am still scratching my head but really wanted to share to a) see if I am the only one that didn't know this existed and b) to get your feedback on the issue.
How many of you have heard about DD relationships? Do you know what the DD stands for? Nope, not dungeons and dragons. DD stands for "Domestic Discipline" and it stems from "Christian" roots. Basically, the belief is that the man is head of the household and makes the rules for the house. If anyone breaks those rules, including the wife, they are spanked. Sometimes pretty extensively. Other punishments can also be executed such as soap in the mouth for poor language. The spankings can be distributed either by the hand or by items such as paddles, belts, dog leashes, etc.
Ummm...I am a pretty open-minded person and I admit I am not a Christian. Since my only bible studying was in Catholic school at a very young age, maybe I forgot the words and messages it portrays. I don't remember it saying that a woman was to be beaten...I mean, spanked...if she goes against some "rules" the "head" of the household makes. I guess I can see some Christians buying into the theory of the man being the head of the home since their god is a man and their "savior" is a man. And then you have the whole Adam/Eve story. So I can see that part of it. But the beatings...shoot, I mean "spankings," why do I feel like this is just a way for strict, conservative Christians to justify getting their kink on under the sheets?
I could be wrong and I am always trying to keep an open mind with no judgement. I don't live in their house nor do they in mine. Everyone lives in different ways and I always say, to each their own. Maybe these women have security issues. Maybe they didn't get enough hugs from their dad when they were young. Or maybe they got too many hugs from daddy. And the men? Well, I am sure that there are more than a handful of men that would jump into a relationship like this with both cemented feet! To know that you are in control and can punish anyone who gets in their way? Come on...
Of course all anyone wants is to be happy and most of these couples say that their marriage couldn't be better. That this punishment/recovery/forgiveness plan makes them feel closer as a couple. Again, to each their own. I personally feel like it is abuse. Consensual abuse. One-sided abuse. But what do I know?
Here is a link to some information so that you can formulate your own opinion. And if you google search it, you will find much more. Just be careful because it is right on the verge of more perverse videos and articles that will just corrupt your computer and plaster porn all over your screen.
http://www.christiandd.com/husbands/brent1.html
What are your thoughts?
Hidden in the Woodwork gives me an opportunity to share with you strange, different, uncommon or not well known things in our world that is swept under the carpet or just not really prevalent in our everyday lives. It may lead to debate or controversy but it will most certainly (or hopefully) open your (and my) eyes to new lifestyles, view points and theories.
So to kick off my new series Hidden in the Woodwork I must share with you something I came across while browsing the internet while H slept on me for two additional hours after her first hour in her crib. When I read some of these stories and blogs about this lifestyle, I am still scratching my head but really wanted to share to a) see if I am the only one that didn't know this existed and b) to get your feedback on the issue.
How many of you have heard about DD relationships? Do you know what the DD stands for? Nope, not dungeons and dragons. DD stands for "Domestic Discipline" and it stems from "Christian" roots. Basically, the belief is that the man is head of the household and makes the rules for the house. If anyone breaks those rules, including the wife, they are spanked. Sometimes pretty extensively. Other punishments can also be executed such as soap in the mouth for poor language. The spankings can be distributed either by the hand or by items such as paddles, belts, dog leashes, etc.
Ummm...I am a pretty open-minded person and I admit I am not a Christian. Since my only bible studying was in Catholic school at a very young age, maybe I forgot the words and messages it portrays. I don't remember it saying that a woman was to be beaten...I mean, spanked...if she goes against some "rules" the "head" of the household makes. I guess I can see some Christians buying into the theory of the man being the head of the home since their god is a man and their "savior" is a man. And then you have the whole Adam/Eve story. So I can see that part of it. But the beatings...shoot, I mean "spankings," why do I feel like this is just a way for strict, conservative Christians to justify getting their kink on under the sheets?
I could be wrong and I am always trying to keep an open mind with no judgement. I don't live in their house nor do they in mine. Everyone lives in different ways and I always say, to each their own. Maybe these women have security issues. Maybe they didn't get enough hugs from their dad when they were young. Or maybe they got too many hugs from daddy. And the men? Well, I am sure that there are more than a handful of men that would jump into a relationship like this with both cemented feet! To know that you are in control and can punish anyone who gets in their way? Come on...
Of course all anyone wants is to be happy and most of these couples say that their marriage couldn't be better. That this punishment/recovery/forgiveness plan makes them feel closer as a couple. Again, to each their own. I personally feel like it is abuse. Consensual abuse. One-sided abuse. But what do I know?
Here is a link to some information so that you can formulate your own opinion. And if you google search it, you will find much more. Just be careful because it is right on the verge of more perverse videos and articles that will just corrupt your computer and plaster porn all over your screen.
http://www.christiandd.com/husbands/brent1.html
What are your thoughts?
The winner is...
...it is TIME to announce the winner of the Baby Cakes sippy cup/bottle strap!
First, thank you to everyone who entered. I wish we could send a sippy cup strap to all of you who took the time to complete ALL the steps! But, if you aren't the winner this time, you should check back in tomorrow for the next Baby Cakes giveaway! The cutest MUST HAVE handmade accessory any special girl in your life would love to wear. Don't miss it!
And, if you are in need of a sippy cup strap (I literally use mine everyday and it has saved that poor cup many tumbles on the floor), just head on over to Baby Cakes' FB page and give Lauren a holla! For $10 you really can't go wrong!!!
Ok, ok...is the suspense killing you (or did you skip all the yaking above to cut to the chase)?
The winner is (drum roll)...
Don't miss tomorrow's giveaway!
In other news, stay tuned to tonight's entry. I learned of a new lifestyle today that I never knew existed...put on your open-minded caps for my new "series" Hidden in the Woodwork!
First, thank you to everyone who entered. I wish we could send a sippy cup strap to all of you who took the time to complete ALL the steps! But, if you aren't the winner this time, you should check back in tomorrow for the next Baby Cakes giveaway! The cutest MUST HAVE handmade accessory any special girl in your life would love to wear. Don't miss it!
And, if you are in need of a sippy cup strap (I literally use mine everyday and it has saved that poor cup many tumbles on the floor), just head on over to Baby Cakes' FB page and give Lauren a holla! For $10 you really can't go wrong!!!
Ok, ok...is the suspense killing you (or did you skip all the yaking above to cut to the chase)?
The winner is (drum roll)...
SARAH
Congrats Sarah! I will be emailing you to give you the good news and to let you know what to do to claim your prize.
Don't miss tomorrow's giveaway!
In other news, stay tuned to tonight's entry. I learned of a new lifestyle today that I never knew existed...put on your open-minded caps for my new "series" Hidden in the Woodwork!
Friday, August 20, 2010
Giveaway ends in 3 hours!
If you haven't entered yet, you have three more hours to do so! Please come check out this awesome giveaway and stay tuned for another handmade must-have baby item next week with a giveaway!
http://thechroniclesofahousewife.blogspot.com/2010/08/please-share-love-giveaway-inside.html
More deep thoughts from this complex housewife when I am not so busy, tired and can find that last creative brain cell. So it may be years...or it may be tomorrow. Either way, don't go too far. You won't want to miss my deep (and insignificant) thoughts. Not to mention...more momma truths coming soon! All the things you always wanted to know about being a momma...but the TRUTH...not the "glamour."
Thanks for playing!
http://thechroniclesofahousewife.blogspot.com/2010/08/please-share-love-giveaway-inside.html
More deep thoughts from this complex housewife when I am not so busy, tired and can find that last creative brain cell. So it may be years...or it may be tomorrow. Either way, don't go too far. You won't want to miss my deep (and insignificant) thoughts. Not to mention...more momma truths coming soon! All the things you always wanted to know about being a momma...but the TRUTH...not the "glamour."
Thanks for playing!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
What I really want to say...
I was at the gym the other day and saw (with closed caption only) a show on the History Channel that provoked so many thoughts, emotions and blog worthy commenting, I almost had to stop jogging the 'mill to write down the flood of words entering my head. But, because of what controversy (religion) that it would create...I really need to be the best of my best to really present my thoughts in the most un-biased, fair and unemotional way. Tonight is NOT the night.
I worked HARD today on my Wells Fargo project, some household chores and being the mom, wife and planner that I am. I admit...I am pretty damn tired and have no idea how my brain is connecting with my fingers to type what I am typing now.
But my post-in notes exist...and I will come back to my thoughts on that show...
In the meantime, have you entered? Not the doughnut shop...not Starbucks...but my giveaway. If you need some help finding it...here you go!
In the meantime...tell me what YOU know about this Christian theory of "rapture" and then I will tell you my thoughts, theories and a little more about this 'interesting' show!
I worked HARD today on my Wells Fargo project, some household chores and being the mom, wife and planner that I am. I admit...I am pretty damn tired and have no idea how my brain is connecting with my fingers to type what I am typing now.
But my post-in notes exist...and I will come back to my thoughts on that show...
In the meantime, have you entered? Not the doughnut shop...not Starbucks...but my giveaway. If you need some help finding it...here you go!
In the meantime...tell me what YOU know about this Christian theory of "rapture" and then I will tell you my thoughts, theories and a little more about this 'interesting' show!
Monday, August 16, 2010
Please share the love! Giveaway inside...
Hey Mommas!! Or those soon to be Mommas...or those who know a few Mommas...or if you have a baby shower or other baby type bash coming up soon...
Let me introduce to you...my sister-in-law, Lauren! She has started her own biz of awesome baby necessities (yes, I did say NECESSITIES) that you MUST see! I am so proud of her goodies (and plan on buying her out of most items...) that I really wanted to share it with you.
Her biz has the cutest name...Baby Cakes...and the logo was designed by her very own husband. We like to keep it in the family around here...a regular ol' mob! All of the items are handmade and include pacifier holders, crocheted headbands (I will totally be getting a black and yellow one for football season - GO STEELERS), unique bibs and so much more.
To help promote her new endeavor, she agreed to do a giveaway on the blog of your's truly. Wait, did I say GIVEAWAY? I meant GIVEAWAYS. There will be two giveaways! One this week and one next week. Can't beat that with a hockey stick!
First on the awesome giveaway list is a sippy cup/bottle/toy holder. In our house, we call them sippy leashes but, basically, it is the perfect way to keep the sippy cup (or any other item) that is being manhandled by your 7 month old (speaking for myself) from dropping on the floor (or being thrown across the room).
Basically, it is a strap that has velcro on one end (the end that wraps around the cup/bottle/toy) and a caribiner on the other end that you can attach to the high chair strap, a belt loop, or car seat strap.
She has many designs and a neutral design will be selected for our giveaway - so it is perfect for any gender and for any gift! Heck, even if you don't have a baby or know someone who does (or will), think how handy these could be for your beer can! Those suckers can get slippery!
Here is my baby girl with one of Baby Cake's creations:
Ok, as with any giveaway (including Publisher's Clearing House), there are rules to enter! But these rules are very simple and I think you will find a true treasure when visiting her FB page and blog.
Mandatory for entry:
> Become a follower of my blog by clicking "follow" to the right (if you are already a follower, please let me know)
> Go to the Baby Cakes FB page and become a fan (hit the "like" button)
> Become a follower of Baby Cakes blog
An additional entry for each of the following:
> Become a fan of The Housewife FB page
> Leave a comment with Baby Cakes letting them know your favorite item
> Refer a friend to Baby Cakes blog (please leave a comment with BC as to which friend you referred)
> Refer a friend to the Housewife blog (please leave a comment with HW as to which friend you referred)
Please leave a comment for every entry you decide to make. And, each friend you refer will earn you yet another entry. But they must become followers.
Deadline for entries will be FRIDAY, AUGUST 20 at MIDNIGHT! I will announce the winner on Sunday, August 22 and the winner will be selected through a random number generator.
Good luck and have fun shopping at Baby Cakes!
Let me introduce to you...my sister-in-law, Lauren! She has started her own biz of awesome baby necessities (yes, I did say NECESSITIES) that you MUST see! I am so proud of her goodies (and plan on buying her out of most items...) that I really wanted to share it with you.
Her biz has the cutest name...Baby Cakes...and the logo was designed by her very own husband. We like to keep it in the family around here...a regular ol' mob! All of the items are handmade and include pacifier holders, crocheted headbands (I will totally be getting a black and yellow one for football season - GO STEELERS), unique bibs and so much more.
To help promote her new endeavor, she agreed to do a giveaway on the blog of your's truly. Wait, did I say GIVEAWAY? I meant GIVEAWAYS. There will be two giveaways! One this week and one next week. Can't beat that with a hockey stick!
First on the awesome giveaway list is a sippy cup/bottle/toy holder. In our house, we call them sippy leashes but, basically, it is the perfect way to keep the sippy cup (or any other item) that is being manhandled by your 7 month old (speaking for myself) from dropping on the floor (or being thrown across the room).
Basically, it is a strap that has velcro on one end (the end that wraps around the cup/bottle/toy) and a caribiner on the other end that you can attach to the high chair strap, a belt loop, or car seat strap.
She has many designs and a neutral design will be selected for our giveaway - so it is perfect for any gender and for any gift! Heck, even if you don't have a baby or know someone who does (or will), think how handy these could be for your beer can! Those suckers can get slippery!
Here is my baby girl with one of Baby Cake's creations:
Ok, as with any giveaway (including Publisher's Clearing House), there are rules to enter! But these rules are very simple and I think you will find a true treasure when visiting her FB page and blog.
Mandatory for entry:
> Become a follower of my blog by clicking "follow" to the right (if you are already a follower, please let me know)
> Go to the Baby Cakes FB page and become a fan (hit the "like" button)
> Become a follower of Baby Cakes blog
An additional entry for each of the following:
> Become a fan of The Housewife FB page
> Leave a comment with Baby Cakes letting them know your favorite item
> Refer a friend to Baby Cakes blog (please leave a comment with BC as to which friend you referred)
> Refer a friend to the Housewife blog (please leave a comment with HW as to which friend you referred)
Please leave a comment for every entry you decide to make. And, each friend you refer will earn you yet another entry. But they must become followers.
Deadline for entries will be FRIDAY, AUGUST 20 at MIDNIGHT! I will announce the winner on Sunday, August 22 and the winner will be selected through a random number generator.
Good luck and have fun shopping at Baby Cakes!
Monday, August 9, 2010
Ok...how the H to the E to the double hockey sticks...
Where did my time go? Did I put it in the same place as my bank checks? I can't seem to find it ANYWHERE and I am losing my mind!
I so badly want to keep up with this blog. I have so much to say - I find myself making notes on my phone while feeding H or writing on the back of some random envelope in the car when I think of a topic. But getting HERE is the hard part.
It seems like lately, once H goes to bed, I either work on the awards event I have been contracted to do or I am cleaning like a crazy woman. The good news is that I have the laundry in a manageable place. I am super excited about Thursday when my SIL will be coming over so that I can clean top to bottom (while she watches H).
So here my blog sits. With so much potential but no one to bring it out. I have giveaways just sitting in the wings and more truths for mommas (or about mommas...or just by a momma). When will I find time to get caught up?
Unfortunately, it isn't tonight. It is almost 10 and I really wanted to try and get some sleep tonight. It has been pretty tough going with H over the last week or so. I really want to get some solid sleep before wake up call #1 (usually around 1:30 or so).
I would love to hear from other mommas of how they are able to blog so awesomely while having a baby in tow. One handed typing? That's ok for emails and FB but I don't think I could do an entire blog one handed. What are your tips? Do you schedule it in? Do you do it after baby's bedtime? Another time? Nap time? I just always seem to find something to clean or do around the house that doesn't involve the computer.
Maybe once I get the house in shape on Thursday I can make a big dent in my blog and, maybe, I can keep it up again!
But any tips would be welcomed!
I so badly want to keep up with this blog. I have so much to say - I find myself making notes on my phone while feeding H or writing on the back of some random envelope in the car when I think of a topic. But getting HERE is the hard part.
It seems like lately, once H goes to bed, I either work on the awards event I have been contracted to do or I am cleaning like a crazy woman. The good news is that I have the laundry in a manageable place. I am super excited about Thursday when my SIL will be coming over so that I can clean top to bottom (while she watches H).
So here my blog sits. With so much potential but no one to bring it out. I have giveaways just sitting in the wings and more truths for mommas (or about mommas...or just by a momma). When will I find time to get caught up?
Unfortunately, it isn't tonight. It is almost 10 and I really wanted to try and get some sleep tonight. It has been pretty tough going with H over the last week or so. I really want to get some solid sleep before wake up call #1 (usually around 1:30 or so).
I would love to hear from other mommas of how they are able to blog so awesomely while having a baby in tow. One handed typing? That's ok for emails and FB but I don't think I could do an entire blog one handed. What are your tips? Do you schedule it in? Do you do it after baby's bedtime? Another time? Nap time? I just always seem to find something to clean or do around the house that doesn't involve the computer.
Maybe once I get the house in shape on Thursday I can make a big dent in my blog and, maybe, I can keep it up again!
But any tips would be welcomed!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
As the days pass us by...
All of my promises of being here everyday have drifted to the shore like balls of oil. Days fly by before I can grab them and exhaustion takes over like a relentless hag of a boss. But here I am...red eyed and beaten to a pulp. But a blog entry to show for it.
There are so many thoughts bouncing around in my half empty head like a classic pinball machine. Where to start?
I guess with my brain itself...and brains in general.
Have you noticed how much your brain protects you (and sometimes scars you) in the most interesting ways. I can't go into much detail about my latest revelation in fear of upsetting others or exposing a very private situation (that I am still working through and learning more about). But, through the process of having this revelation, I have discovered that my brain is my bestest friend and my worst enemy. Have you felt or experienced this before?
It is amazing how incredibly protective your brain is to your well-being and sanity (but yet can turn on you in a heartbeat). When something traumatic happens in your life...so traumatic that you are unable to retain the details but "feel" the residue years later...it is your brain to thank (or to curse). It shuts the shade on that window and locks it away in the depths of gray matter so that you can live your life without the constant burden of the pain inflicted. Then there is a moment...at the most random time...that a thought...an image...escapes that window and you start to unwrap the unwelcomed gift given.
But then there are those times where your brain works in overdrive to question a situation that isn't bad but that you perceive bad. Or a situation where something went wrong and you spend hours...days...weeks...months questioning yourself about it. What did I do wrong? What could I have done different? Is it me? Why doesn't your brain shut that shade? Selective protecting...
Not for nothing. I just thought it was interesting how the brain works. Is it a protector of your heart or the one that pierces it in the end?
Thought marble number 2...
I had a great day today. I dressed up in actual corporate work attire and met with Wells Fargo executives and other executives from local businesses and organizations around town. I wore heeled sandals (not flip flops) and even put on eye shadow! It was a sure switch from the norm. Knowing that H was with her Auntie Erin made it all the more pleasurable to go to my work luncheon and do what I always used to do best...interact with very interesting and corporate ADULTS in a very classy (and yummy) restaurant!
Ahhhh, I felt at home.
I must say that the corporate environment can be like a drug (for some...for me). It is the "fix" I need from time to time. It feels good to be good at something after always (or at least frequently) questioning my momma skills (even though I think those are pretty good, if I do say so myself).
There are so many other beautifully colored marbles floating around my head...so many other things to talk to you about. But, I do want to post in little H's blog and do a quick update in my FAT blog. That being said, I must exit out for the time being but I really DO plan on being here more often.
Please accept my deepest apologies for not being the blogger I promised to be. I will try even harder. I momma all day, work on my event all night and then snore so loud NASA can hear it from the space station. I am DEFINITELY burning the ol' metaphoric candle from both ends so I know my fingers are bound to get a good burn. But hopefully it will be while I am typing some meaningless entry in this dusty blog!
There are so many thoughts bouncing around in my half empty head like a classic pinball machine. Where to start?
I guess with my brain itself...and brains in general.
Have you noticed how much your brain protects you (and sometimes scars you) in the most interesting ways. I can't go into much detail about my latest revelation in fear of upsetting others or exposing a very private situation (that I am still working through and learning more about). But, through the process of having this revelation, I have discovered that my brain is my bestest friend and my worst enemy. Have you felt or experienced this before?
It is amazing how incredibly protective your brain is to your well-being and sanity (but yet can turn on you in a heartbeat). When something traumatic happens in your life...so traumatic that you are unable to retain the details but "feel" the residue years later...it is your brain to thank (or to curse). It shuts the shade on that window and locks it away in the depths of gray matter so that you can live your life without the constant burden of the pain inflicted. Then there is a moment...at the most random time...that a thought...an image...escapes that window and you start to unwrap the unwelcomed gift given.
But then there are those times where your brain works in overdrive to question a situation that isn't bad but that you perceive bad. Or a situation where something went wrong and you spend hours...days...weeks...months questioning yourself about it. What did I do wrong? What could I have done different? Is it me? Why doesn't your brain shut that shade? Selective protecting...
Not for nothing. I just thought it was interesting how the brain works. Is it a protector of your heart or the one that pierces it in the end?
Thought marble number 2...
I had a great day today. I dressed up in actual corporate work attire and met with Wells Fargo executives and other executives from local businesses and organizations around town. I wore heeled sandals (not flip flops) and even put on eye shadow! It was a sure switch from the norm. Knowing that H was with her Auntie Erin made it all the more pleasurable to go to my work luncheon and do what I always used to do best...interact with very interesting and corporate ADULTS in a very classy (and yummy) restaurant!
Ahhhh, I felt at home.
I must say that the corporate environment can be like a drug (for some...for me). It is the "fix" I need from time to time. It feels good to be good at something after always (or at least frequently) questioning my momma skills (even though I think those are pretty good, if I do say so myself).
There are so many other beautifully colored marbles floating around my head...so many other things to talk to you about. But, I do want to post in little H's blog and do a quick update in my FAT blog. That being said, I must exit out for the time being but I really DO plan on being here more often.
Please accept my deepest apologies for not being the blogger I promised to be. I will try even harder. I momma all day, work on my event all night and then snore so loud NASA can hear it from the space station. I am DEFINITELY burning the ol' metaphoric candle from both ends so I know my fingers are bound to get a good burn. But hopefully it will be while I am typing some meaningless entry in this dusty blog!
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