Monday, July 5, 2010
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Farewell to diapers and strollers...
Yesterday we sold our last stroller. It happened to be to a friend who saw it on craigslist, so I'll be happy to see her with it. I'm also happy (honest) to have the back of my van back, since we weren't using the stroller anyway. The girls hadn't ridden in it in ages.
This week we stopped using diapers completely and the girls have been dry every morning. I have TWO diapers left, just sitting there all by themselves. I have to say that feels strange.
Yesterday, as promised, I painted the twins' toenails. I told them months ago that once they were ALL DONE with diapers, that they could have their toes painted. They sat SO still and were so patient, and really delighted with the finished results. It was a big step for me to be painting their nails. It just seemed to speak of so much to come for two little girls growing up so quickly.
This week they wrote their names all by themselves. Copied them, really, on their magnadoodles, but still a sweet accomplishment that brought me joy. It made me so proud.
I can't help reflecting on the "diapers and strollers" phase that we are leaving behind. Maybe I feel nostalgic because I am uncertain if we will ever revisit the phase by having future children. Maybe I am nervous facing childhood with all it's parenting challenges, in comparison to the relatively clear-cut decisions of infanthood. For some one who has complained so loudly about the burden of raising two babies at one time, I feel somehow cheated that the time has gone so quickly. Surely I should have more time with my babies?
Don't think I'm not thankful. I'm so happy to see them growing and progressing. Watching them learn new things is just as amazing as it always has been. Seeing their eyes light up with understanding and their smile bright with confidence in new accomplishments is a magical experience.
I certainly won't miss the monthly expense of diapers, or lifting that mammoth double stroller. But it still feels like a bitter-sweet milestone. I truly never minded changing diapers. I wouldn't mind changing a few more.....
This week we stopped using diapers completely and the girls have been dry every morning. I have TWO diapers left, just sitting there all by themselves. I have to say that feels strange.
Yesterday, as promised, I painted the twins' toenails. I told them months ago that once they were ALL DONE with diapers, that they could have their toes painted. They sat SO still and were so patient, and really delighted with the finished results. It was a big step for me to be painting their nails. It just seemed to speak of so much to come for two little girls growing up so quickly.
This week they wrote their names all by themselves. Copied them, really, on their magnadoodles, but still a sweet accomplishment that brought me joy. It made me so proud.
I can't help reflecting on the "diapers and strollers" phase that we are leaving behind. Maybe I feel nostalgic because I am uncertain if we will ever revisit the phase by having future children. Maybe I am nervous facing childhood with all it's parenting challenges, in comparison to the relatively clear-cut decisions of infanthood. For some one who has complained so loudly about the burden of raising two babies at one time, I feel somehow cheated that the time has gone so quickly. Surely I should have more time with my babies?
Don't think I'm not thankful. I'm so happy to see them growing and progressing. Watching them learn new things is just as amazing as it always has been. Seeing their eyes light up with understanding and their smile bright with confidence in new accomplishments is a magical experience.
I certainly won't miss the monthly expense of diapers, or lifting that mammoth double stroller. But it still feels like a bitter-sweet milestone. I truly never minded changing diapers. I wouldn't mind changing a few more.....
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Consignment Sale Season again....
Tickled Twice
March 3-6
http://www.tickledtwice.com/
Belles & Beaus
March 12-14
http://bellesandbeaussc.tripod.com/
Tot Trade
March 17-23
http://www.tottrade.net/sale_details.html
M.O.M. Sale
March 27
http://www.gcamotc.com/sales.htm
Let me know if there are any others!
March 3-6
http://www.tickledtwice.com/
Belles & Beaus
March 12-14
http://bellesandbeaussc.tripod.com/
Tot Trade
March 17-23
http://www.tottrade.net/sale_details.html
M.O.M. Sale
March 27
http://www.gcamotc.com/sales.htm
Let me know if there are any others!
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Win 20 pairs of Baby Legwarmers!
At Baby Snazz! Don't miss the contest, it's easy and you don't have to buy anything to enter:
Win 20 Pairs of Baby Leg Warmers from babySNAZZ!
Win 20 Pairs of Baby Leg Warmers from babySNAZZ!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Just another manic Monday.....
WHY why is it the days when I have my sights set SO high on getting SO much done that the entire world seems against me. Let's go chronologically, shall we...
6:00 AM Stupid beagle wakes me up, running around the room. Take off her collar so it will stop jingling, then put her on my bed (DH leaves early for work). She proceeds to jump up and down and run around the house so that I cannot fall asleep.
6:35 AM I fall back asleep finally, right before DDs wake up in a typically crabby mood.
6:50 AM Try to entice the girls with TV, but wind up having to fix breakfast and feed them in the living room.
7:30 AM Try to entice girls with TV AGAIN to no avail. Decide to get ready for the inevitable Walmart trip.
9:30 AM Finally ready for the stupid Walmart trip. Leave front door.
9:45 AM Leave drive-way. Yes, it does take that long, I swear.
10:00 AM Re-discover timeless truth: Walmart sucks. They just suck. HUGE whopping Super Walmart with only two, count them, TWO double carts. Thought I was lucky to find one then realized it was soaking wet. Get cart dried off, then realize straps are broken. Too late to back out now. DDs ride STANDING in the front of the double cart.
10:15 AM Tell DDs 27 thousand times to not stand on the seat. Stand on the floor of the little front cart car thingy. DO NOT STAND ON SEAT.
10:45 AM Criss-cross ginormous store finding about half of the items I actually needed, forgetting the other half. Tell DDs DO NOT STAND ON SEAT.
11:00 AM Spend 15 minutes locating a manager to politely suggest, ask, or beg, that the store "invest" in at least 2 working double carts. Manager looks at me as if I am a little OCD and then asks how old they are. "UMmmmm. Old enough to need to be buckled into a cart, and not old enough to walk along side it."
11:15 AM Unload groceries, get DDs into house, take incessantly barking dog outside, try to start chopping veggies to put in crock pot for soup. Turn around and DDs have sprinkled flour on roughly half of the contents of our pantry, and generously dusted themselves as well. Close door on pantry and try to forget that.
12:00 PM Give DDs lunch, realize (once it is too late) that all ingredients will not fit into crock pot. Recipe is probably now ruined as I haphazardly scoop out "half" of the ingredients.
12:10 PM Stupidly decide it is a good time to clean out fridge, so pull out most of fridge stuff all over the kitchen which is already covered in groceries, half chopped soup ingredients removed from pot and flour. Decide I should either clean out fridge much more often, or never.
12:25 PM Girls have taken applesauce and milk and made a paste that is now coating chairs and table, and their flour-dredged dresses, that, might I add, were new until today. DD1 cries because I refuse to replace milk she has deliberately poured all over kitchen.
12:30 PM Clean girls off, strip dirty clothes. DD2 cries that I will not let her continue living in filthy dress. Trash can is starting to smell from fridge which is still open and half scrubbed out. Counter is now covered in empty cans, choppings, half of ruined soup and the contents of fridge.
12:40 PM Something SMELLS. BEAGLE HAS POOPED IN LIVING ROOM. DDs are screaming in horror, still naked. Fridge is still open, food is all over kitchen. Applesauce/Milk paste is covering furniture. It gets worse.
12:45 PM Realize too late that BEAGLE HAS stepped in poop and tracked it on rug and floor. Capture beagle and cage her, while telling her of all the places she could live that would make me quite happy, realizing all the while that I will now have to bathe beagle and clean cage. DD1 starts crying because apparently, she has wet her diaper and that just CANNOT WAIT. Clean poop off of floor, apply carpet cleaner to rug and search fearfully for more.
1:00 PM Take girls to bedroom, change them, dress them and put them in bed for nap. Sigh in relief, start to leave bedroom. See poop-covered Croc (Croc Mammoth OF COURSE) in corner and realize the poop has now been theoretically spread from living room, down hall, and into girls' room, covering throw rugs, laminate floor, and carpeting in it's journey.
1:15 PM Cook chicken pot pie, fattiest food item I could find in freezer and eat it with a taboo Mt. Dew. Decide we must move to get away from the omnipresent poop.
Thanks if you hung on till the end. I think getting off Prozac was a huge mistake.
6:00 AM Stupid beagle wakes me up, running around the room. Take off her collar so it will stop jingling, then put her on my bed (DH leaves early for work). She proceeds to jump up and down and run around the house so that I cannot fall asleep.
6:35 AM I fall back asleep finally, right before DDs wake up in a typically crabby mood.
6:50 AM Try to entice the girls with TV, but wind up having to fix breakfast and feed them in the living room.
7:30 AM Try to entice girls with TV AGAIN to no avail. Decide to get ready for the inevitable Walmart trip.
9:30 AM Finally ready for the stupid Walmart trip. Leave front door.
9:45 AM Leave drive-way. Yes, it does take that long, I swear.
10:00 AM Re-discover timeless truth: Walmart sucks. They just suck. HUGE whopping Super Walmart with only two, count them, TWO double carts. Thought I was lucky to find one then realized it was soaking wet. Get cart dried off, then realize straps are broken. Too late to back out now. DDs ride STANDING in the front of the double cart.
10:15 AM Tell DDs 27 thousand times to not stand on the seat. Stand on the floor of the little front cart car thingy. DO NOT STAND ON SEAT.
10:45 AM Criss-cross ginormous store finding about half of the items I actually needed, forgetting the other half. Tell DDs DO NOT STAND ON SEAT.
11:00 AM Spend 15 minutes locating a manager to politely suggest, ask, or beg, that the store "invest" in at least 2 working double carts. Manager looks at me as if I am a little OCD and then asks how old they are. "UMmmmm. Old enough to need to be buckled into a cart, and not old enough to walk along side it."
11:15 AM Unload groceries, get DDs into house, take incessantly barking dog outside, try to start chopping veggies to put in crock pot for soup. Turn around and DDs have sprinkled flour on roughly half of the contents of our pantry, and generously dusted themselves as well. Close door on pantry and try to forget that.
12:00 PM Give DDs lunch, realize (once it is too late) that all ingredients will not fit into crock pot. Recipe is probably now ruined as I haphazardly scoop out "half" of the ingredients.
12:10 PM Stupidly decide it is a good time to clean out fridge, so pull out most of fridge stuff all over the kitchen which is already covered in groceries, half chopped soup ingredients removed from pot and flour. Decide I should either clean out fridge much more often, or never.
12:25 PM Girls have taken applesauce and milk and made a paste that is now coating chairs and table, and their flour-dredged dresses, that, might I add, were new until today. DD1 cries because I refuse to replace milk she has deliberately poured all over kitchen.
12:30 PM Clean girls off, strip dirty clothes. DD2 cries that I will not let her continue living in filthy dress. Trash can is starting to smell from fridge which is still open and half scrubbed out. Counter is now covered in empty cans, choppings, half of ruined soup and the contents of fridge.
12:40 PM Something SMELLS. BEAGLE HAS POOPED IN LIVING ROOM. DDs are screaming in horror, still naked. Fridge is still open, food is all over kitchen. Applesauce/Milk paste is covering furniture. It gets worse.
12:45 PM Realize too late that BEAGLE HAS stepped in poop and tracked it on rug and floor. Capture beagle and cage her, while telling her of all the places she could live that would make me quite happy, realizing all the while that I will now have to bathe beagle and clean cage. DD1 starts crying because apparently, she has wet her diaper and that just CANNOT WAIT. Clean poop off of floor, apply carpet cleaner to rug and search fearfully for more.
1:00 PM Take girls to bedroom, change them, dress them and put them in bed for nap. Sigh in relief, start to leave bedroom. See poop-covered Croc (Croc Mammoth OF COURSE) in corner and realize the poop has now been theoretically spread from living room, down hall, and into girls' room, covering throw rugs, laminate floor, and carpeting in it's journey.
1:15 PM Cook chicken pot pie, fattiest food item I could find in freezer and eat it with a taboo Mt. Dew. Decide we must move to get away from the omnipresent poop.
Thanks if you hung on till the end. I think getting off Prozac was a huge mistake.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Amber Necklaces
USE save15 AT INSPIRED BY FINN FOR 15% OFF!!!!I just realized that I never posted a review of the amber necklaces we bought nearly a year ago.
I bought necklaces for each of the girls and one for myself . We love them!
I was concerned that at their age (when we first got them, the girls were 21 months) they would be bothered by them, try to take them off, or worse PULL each other by the neck. But they were delighted to see they got necklaces that matched mommy's and we haven't had a moments trouble with them. When they wake up in the morning they point to their necks and are ready to get dressed and put on their necklaces. They look so adorable too!
I love my necklace (I now have two from Inspired by Finn). It's been really difficult the last two years, as I developed a nickel allergy during pregnancy and can no longer wear most jewelry. My wedding ring and all my expensive jewelry irritates my skin; sterling silver, white gold, yellow gold, etc. I was told anything of a lesser quality than platinum would be a problem, because most metals contain nickel as a firming substance. Even beaded, plastic and cord jewelry is often made with metal clasps that I can't wear. I've tried "hypo-allergenic" jewelry and can't wear that either.
Now I have jewelry that I can wear all the time, and I don't even feel it. I was delighted to see how light and comfortable it is, and I LOVE that the clasp is all plastic, so NO irritation for me! It is a pleasure to be able to put on jewelry again! I also love that the clasp doesn't catch my hair the way almost all jewelry used to.
As I mentioned before, amber jewelry has natural analgesic properties. After wearing this necklace for months now, I am amazed to report that I do believe it is effective. I have fairly constant neck pain and should be seeing a chiropractor regularly, but I haven't been in months. The necklace really dulls the pain. When I forget to put it back on after showering, I can feel the difference. It's not a miracle, but it definitely takes the edge off of the pain. My grandmother wears her amber bracelet for bursitis and she agrees it does help.
I also wanted to comment on the quality of Kate's jewelry at Inspired by Finn. I have worn my multi-colored necklace about 23 hours a day, every day (occasionally switching it out with my "dressier" dark amber necklace) since we bought and it is still going strong which is impressive! My daughters, parents, brothers and grandmother all have them too and no one has had any quality complaints.
I highly recommend Kate at Inspired by Finn, she's very helpful and her jewelry is lovely. Shipping is also very reasonable, so check it out: http://hyenacart.com/inspiredbyfinn/
Who doesn't want jewelry that makes you feel better?!
As I mentioned before, amber jewelry has natural analgesic properties. After wearing this necklace for months now, I am amazed to report that I do believe it is effective. I have fairly constant neck pain and should be seeing a chiropractor regularly, but I haven't been in months. The necklace really dulls the pain. When I forget to put it back on after showering, I can feel the difference. It's not a miracle, but it definitely takes the edge off of the pain. My grandmother wears her amber bracelet for bursitis and she agrees it does help.
I also wanted to comment on the quality of Kate's jewelry at Inspired by Finn. I have worn my multi-colored necklace about 23 hours a day, every day (occasionally switching it out with my "dressier" dark amber necklace) since we bought and it is still going strong which is impressive! My daughters, parents, brothers and grandmother all have them too and no one has had any quality complaints.
I highly recommend Kate at Inspired by Finn, she's very helpful and her jewelry is lovely. Shipping is also very reasonable, so check it out: http://hyenacart.com/inspiredbyfinn/
Who doesn't want jewelry that makes you feel better?!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Easter Sunday
John 11:25-26
Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die."
Fortunately, I grew up with the knowledge of the love of Christ and came to His forgiveness at a very young age. I am so thankful for that! However, having grown up as a Christian, it has been easy for me to take salvation for granted, to find the message of the cross to be common place and ordinary, to view forgiveness as expected, even to imagine the privilege of prayer as some kind of right.
Today, Easter Sunday, is an obvious time to reflect on the Lord Jesus Christ’s love for me and the sin I could never have escaped. I remember that the guilt and condemnation of sin have been forever lifted from my soul, that I can look to each day with hope, and face eternity with boundless joy.
Today, I have been thinking of salvation as the BIG blessing in my life. Bigger than any other gift I will ever receive, more than I could have hoped for, and more precious than I even begin to comprehend. It is a gift given in love that cannot be shaken by anyone or anything. My eternity in Christ is secure. That overwhelmingly huge, all-encompassing reality will always be mine. But that is not all that Christ gives….
To take it a step further, I am reminded that every other thing in my life is like a bonus gift. Imagine that! He has given us more than just to be forever forgiven, more than His everlasting presence, more than love that does not quit. He has given us life abundant. Family, friends, homes, food ….bonuses! Laughter, health, skills, safety…..bonuses! Transportation, employment, pets, hobbies…..bonuses!
For me, it is important to realize that no matter what I may face, whatever frustrations, sickness, or worries come my way; my salvation is eternal, the BIG blessing will not be removed. Anything else is just extra and should be appreciated and enjoyed, but salvation is the foundation for it all. Thank you, Jesus, for the big blessing and all the bonus blessings that you pour on me daily.
1 Peter 1:3
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die."
Fortunately, I grew up with the knowledge of the love of Christ and came to His forgiveness at a very young age. I am so thankful for that! However, having grown up as a Christian, it has been easy for me to take salvation for granted, to find the message of the cross to be common place and ordinary, to view forgiveness as expected, even to imagine the privilege of prayer as some kind of right.
Today, Easter Sunday, is an obvious time to reflect on the Lord Jesus Christ’s love for me and the sin I could never have escaped. I remember that the guilt and condemnation of sin have been forever lifted from my soul, that I can look to each day with hope, and face eternity with boundless joy.
Today, I have been thinking of salvation as the BIG blessing in my life. Bigger than any other gift I will ever receive, more than I could have hoped for, and more precious than I even begin to comprehend. It is a gift given in love that cannot be shaken by anyone or anything. My eternity in Christ is secure. That overwhelmingly huge, all-encompassing reality will always be mine. But that is not all that Christ gives….
To take it a step further, I am reminded that every other thing in my life is like a bonus gift. Imagine that! He has given us more than just to be forever forgiven, more than His everlasting presence, more than love that does not quit. He has given us life abundant. Family, friends, homes, food ….bonuses! Laughter, health, skills, safety…..bonuses! Transportation, employment, pets, hobbies…..bonuses!
For me, it is important to realize that no matter what I may face, whatever frustrations, sickness, or worries come my way; my salvation is eternal, the BIG blessing will not be removed. Anything else is just extra and should be appreciated and enjoyed, but salvation is the foundation for it all. Thank you, Jesus, for the big blessing and all the bonus blessings that you pour on me daily.
1 Peter 1:3
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Area Consignment Sales
Almost time for consignment and yard sale season. YIPEE!!! Here's the latest info I could find on the local sales. Please let me know if I am missing any events!
Tickled Twice: Sale will start on 03/04/09 for the general public and run through 03/07/09, Hours will be 9-6 all days.
www.Tickledtwice.com
Belles and Beaus, 3/13-3/15
http://bellesandbeaussc.tripod.com/
Tot Trade 3/19-3/25, Jamil Temple
http://www.tottrade.net/
MOMS Sale (Twin Sale)
Our Spring Sale will be held 3/28/09. We will again be meeting at Saxe Gotha Presbyterian Church in Lexington.
http://www.gcamotc.com/sales.htm
WeeSale
Spring/Summer Sale has been postponed until further notice
http://weesale.net/index.html
Tickled Twice: Sale will start on 03/04/09 for the general public and run through 03/07/09, Hours will be 9-6 all days.
www.Tickledtwice.com
Belles and Beaus, 3/13-3/15
http://bellesandbeaussc.tripod.com/
Tot Trade 3/19-3/25, Jamil Temple
http://www.tottrade.net/
MOMS Sale (Twin Sale)
Our Spring Sale will be held 3/28/09. We will again be meeting at Saxe Gotha Presbyterian Church in Lexington.
http://www.gcamotc.com/sales.htm
WeeSale
Spring/Summer Sale has been postponed until further notice
http://weesale.net/index.html
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Monday, October 20, 2008
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Waldorf Style Hand-crocheted Dolls
As a little girl, I always loved dolls. I had quite a collection from porcelain dolls to cornhusk dolls. Some of the ones I enjoyed the most were very simple dolls that gave my imagination plenty of room for creative play! My grandmother taught me to crochet years ago, and now I have created a very simple Waldorf-style doll just like the kind I would have loved as child. Since this is my pattern, it is unique and each doll is one of a kind, crocheted with cotton yarn and “huggably” stuffed to the perfect softness! My daughters and I love them! I am selling these dolls locally now for $12 so that I can buy more yarn to make more dolls. Eventually, I would charge more for them, because each takes about three hours of time from start to finish, plus the cost of materials. I can provide pictures of some of the other dolls I have available, but here is an example. (For $16 I can custom make a doll with specific color choices for dress and skin tone. It may take up to one week to complete.) Thanks for looking! Please e-mail me with any questions.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Win Babylegs!!!
This is one of my favorite new finds...new to me anyway. Babylegs are so adorable and practical! Here's a contest to win a pair or two. Check it out:
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Advice to my dear pregnant friend....
(let's call her Julie)
for whom I am VERY VERY excited!
I'm compiling some advice for you and whoever else is interested:
Obviously, every family is different and to a certain extent you’ve really got to make choices based on your own situation. But, I have really gotten a lot of useful info from other parents and reading reviews has helped me a lot (although eaten up a lot of otherwise valuable time).
A huge piece of advice that I have found helpful is buy used when possible. For instance, my dad bought a swing for us for $15. It was absolutely invaluable for a very short time. I would have been frustrated to shell out $60 on it, but for the price it was great. We were able to re-sell it for the same. It’s a good idea to decide what you want new and what you are open to buying used. The consignment sales will be coming up in the next few months and they will have tons of great stuff, some barely used, but it is mind-boggling if you don't decide ahead of time what you are looking for.
Here are a few “biggish” things that I think you will need one way or the other:
1) Crib---several options: convertible, or not; there are even these awesome round cribs, some sides raise and lower, others don’t. You may not need this right away, and could use a pack ‘n play or bassinet for a couple months before investing in the crib. Obviously, you know all this, but anyway…
2) Carseat---several options on this front too. Most people get infant car seats with the handles, and then a bigger one down the road. Other people get convertible car seats that can go from infant way up through toddler. It may depend on the size of your baby…mine were too little for those at first. Personally, I think having a handle so you can carry the whole seat while baby is asleep is invaluable. Many different price points and safety features. You’ll probably need to research this.
3) Breast pump---you will probably want to get one of these ahead of time. They can be rather expensive and if you are going to pump while at work you want a pretty good one. Double electric is the way to go. Manuals are stupid and singles are stupid. Single manuals are just idiotic (in my humble opinion ;-) Mine wasn’t that great but you are welcome to borrow it; you buy all the fresh tubing and pump parts so it isn’t gross to share!
4) Pack ‘n Play----most everyone needs one of those these days. Depends on how much you may use it on the features you will want. If it’s just for traveling, a simple cheap one will work fine. If you want to use it a lot at home too, then they have nifty ones with changing tables, mobiles, diaper stations, bassinets and tons of cool stuff.
5) High chair----of course you won’t be using this until baby is 6 months old, so you can hold out and look around. I really really wish we had bought nicer convertible chairs that could be used for a long time: http://mamaslittlemonkeys.blogspot.com/2008/04/searching-for-high-chair-i-could-go-on.html
6) Stroller---another thing you will want to research. So many options are available, especially for singles. Some important functions for me are lightweight, basket underneath, cup holders, and maneuverability. Also, consider air-filled tires (like bike tires), v. plastic tires. It’s important to have a good canopy that actually covers the baby. You may want two, a cheap-o umbrella stroller, and a more heavy-duty jogger for outdoor use. Travel systems allow the infant seat to snap in to the stroller, which is pretty awesome. Some jogger’s have this option as well. Here is one that intrigues me: http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Jogger-City-Single-Stroller/dp/B000WG5M1E/ref=pd_bbs_sr_2?ie=UTF8&s=baby-products&qid=1218115818&sr=8-2
7) Diapers: Cloth vs. Disposable. A lot to consider here too. A big issue is who/where you will be getting childcare. Some people are NOT into doing CD, and may insist on “’sposies’”. A neat place to learn about CD and other natural baby options is: http://www.diaperswappers.com/forum/index.php You will have to register to ask questions and make comments but it is quick and free. I’ve gotten a lot of useful info here. Two other ones I frequent are: http://www.windsorpeak.com/vbulletin/index.php and http://www.mothering.com/discussions/index.php My user name is Melaine if you want to look for me there.
8) Bathtub---here is the one that we have and LOVE: http://www.amazon.com/Primo-340B-PRIMO-EuroBath-Transparent/dp/B000LCDUUY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=baby-products&qid=1218116415&sr=1-2 We still use it today.
9) Changing table----we just put a changing pad on top of a dresser. Works great. Most of the time we changed them on the floor, anyways, and at least this is a piece of furniture that will be functional for a long time.
10) Nursing pillow---we had boppys, they are great. You are welcome to borrow “my breast friend” which is great for BFing but isn’t useful for tummy time, etc. like the Boppy.
11) Bedding, etc. you will need crib sheets. They have nifty ones that zip on and off but they seem pretty expensive. We got most of ours used so we would have plenty all the time without shelling out the cash. We used the same sheets for the pack ‘n play; most worked just fine. Receiving blankets seem like a popular gift, it’s nice to have about 8. Whether or not you’ll need thicker ones, I don’t know, since your baby will be a spring baby. SwaddleMes and Halo Sleep sacks are also great. We loved them and still use Halos ALL the time. You will need burp clothes, the cheap-o cloth diapers work great for this. Also bibs, you can start out with just a few and see if your child needs 1000000 like mine did. Maybe you’ll be lucky and 5 will be enough.
to be continued....
Love, Your Baby Consultant Extraordinaire
for whom I am VERY VERY excited!
I'm compiling some advice for you and whoever else is interested:
Obviously, every family is different and to a certain extent you’ve really got to make choices based on your own situation. But, I have really gotten a lot of useful info from other parents and reading reviews has helped me a lot (although eaten up a lot of otherwise valuable time).
A huge piece of advice that I have found helpful is buy used when possible. For instance, my dad bought a swing for us for $15. It was absolutely invaluable for a very short time. I would have been frustrated to shell out $60 on it, but for the price it was great. We were able to re-sell it for the same. It’s a good idea to decide what you want new and what you are open to buying used. The consignment sales will be coming up in the next few months and they will have tons of great stuff, some barely used, but it is mind-boggling if you don't decide ahead of time what you are looking for.
Here are a few “biggish” things that I think you will need one way or the other:
1) Crib---several options: convertible, or not; there are even these awesome round cribs, some sides raise and lower, others don’t. You may not need this right away, and could use a pack ‘n play or bassinet for a couple months before investing in the crib. Obviously, you know all this, but anyway…
2) Carseat---several options on this front too. Most people get infant car seats with the handles, and then a bigger one down the road. Other people get convertible car seats that can go from infant way up through toddler. It may depend on the size of your baby…mine were too little for those at first. Personally, I think having a handle so you can carry the whole seat while baby is asleep is invaluable. Many different price points and safety features. You’ll probably need to research this.
3) Breast pump---you will probably want to get one of these ahead of time. They can be rather expensive and if you are going to pump while at work you want a pretty good one. Double electric is the way to go. Manuals are stupid and singles are stupid. Single manuals are just idiotic (in my humble opinion ;-) Mine wasn’t that great but you are welcome to borrow it; you buy all the fresh tubing and pump parts so it isn’t gross to share!
4) Pack ‘n Play----most everyone needs one of those these days. Depends on how much you may use it on the features you will want. If it’s just for traveling, a simple cheap one will work fine. If you want to use it a lot at home too, then they have nifty ones with changing tables, mobiles, diaper stations, bassinets and tons of cool stuff.
5) High chair----of course you won’t be using this until baby is 6 months old, so you can hold out and look around. I really really wish we had bought nicer convertible chairs that could be used for a long time: http://mamaslittlemonkeys.blogspot.com/2008/04/searching-for-high-chair-i-could-go-on.html
6) Stroller---another thing you will want to research. So many options are available, especially for singles. Some important functions for me are lightweight, basket underneath, cup holders, and maneuverability. Also, consider air-filled tires (like bike tires), v. plastic tires. It’s important to have a good canopy that actually covers the baby. You may want two, a cheap-o umbrella stroller, and a more heavy-duty jogger for outdoor use. Travel systems allow the infant seat to snap in to the stroller, which is pretty awesome. Some jogger’s have this option as well. Here is one that intrigues me: http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Jogger-City-Single-Stroller/dp/B000WG5M1E/ref=pd_bbs_sr_2?ie=UTF8&s=baby-products&qid=1218115818&sr=8-2
7) Diapers: Cloth vs. Disposable. A lot to consider here too. A big issue is who/where you will be getting childcare. Some people are NOT into doing CD, and may insist on “’sposies’”. A neat place to learn about CD and other natural baby options is: http://www.diaperswappers.com/forum/index.php You will have to register to ask questions and make comments but it is quick and free. I’ve gotten a lot of useful info here. Two other ones I frequent are: http://www.windsorpeak.com/vbulletin/index.php and http://www.mothering.com/discussions/index.php My user name is Melaine if you want to look for me there.
8) Bathtub---here is the one that we have and LOVE: http://www.amazon.com/Primo-340B-PRIMO-EuroBath-Transparent/dp/B000LCDUUY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=baby-products&qid=1218116415&sr=1-2 We still use it today.
9) Changing table----we just put a changing pad on top of a dresser. Works great. Most of the time we changed them on the floor, anyways, and at least this is a piece of furniture that will be functional for a long time.
10) Nursing pillow---we had boppys, they are great. You are welcome to borrow “my breast friend” which is great for BFing but isn’t useful for tummy time, etc. like the Boppy.
11) Bedding, etc. you will need crib sheets. They have nifty ones that zip on and off but they seem pretty expensive. We got most of ours used so we would have plenty all the time without shelling out the cash. We used the same sheets for the pack ‘n play; most worked just fine. Receiving blankets seem like a popular gift, it’s nice to have about 8. Whether or not you’ll need thicker ones, I don’t know, since your baby will be a spring baby. SwaddleMes and Halo Sleep sacks are also great. We loved them and still use Halos ALL the time. You will need burp clothes, the cheap-o cloth diapers work great for this. Also bibs, you can start out with just a few and see if your child needs 1000000 like mine did. Maybe you’ll be lucky and 5 will be enough.
to be continued....
Love, Your Baby Consultant Extraordinaire
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Another fun contest....
http://sassyfrazz.blogspot.com/2008/07/oopsy-daisy-cutie-pie-curlz-review-and.html
Check it out, you can win one of the Oopsy Daisy baby products; it's very easy to enter!
Check it out, you can win one of the Oopsy Daisy baby products; it's very easy to enter!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Win A Klean Kanteen!!
You guys should totally enter this contest...you know how great Klean Kanteens are, right?
http://mamaslittlemonkeys.blogspot.com/2008/05/klean-kanteens-with-their-annoying.html
http://mamaslittlemonkeys.blogspot.com/2008/05/klean-kanteens-with-their-annoying.html
Monday, July 21, 2008
Magic Amber Beads
As I was browsing one of my mommy forums this morning, I came across a product, new to me, that I found totally fascinating, amber teething necklaces for babies and toddlers. I first saw the cute little ones wearing these beautiful natural necklaces and thought, "what in the world...is that safe?" I began reading up on it, and found this info:
"Among other things, Baltic amber is a natural pain reliever, an anti-inflammatory, and an anti-oxidant. It is beneficial to the immune system, and helps combat infection and skin conditions. Amber has been used in Europe as a natural and traditional remedy and curative formany ailments for centuries. Long ago it was considered one of the leading ‘medicines’ of its time. "
Since I am totally interested in natural remedies of all kinds, I continued to read and found that the necklaces can also help adults with arthritis and other chronic pain conditions. Even migraines. And they are so pretty and nickel-free which is fabulous to me now that I can't wear most of my jewelry due to the allergy.
The necklaces for the little ones are made with knots in between each bead, so that if it were to break the necklace would still stay intact. Obviously you wouldn't put the child to bed wearing this or leave them unattended, but apparantly most children quickly get used to them and forget they are there. The "best" place to buy, according to my mommy sources is here:
I see that they offer a 20% disount on co-ops and we could each order individually, so I am wondering who else is interested? The necklaces seem to run $10-$15 and they also have bracelets and anklets. I want to get a necklace or two for myself, one for each of the girls and may get a few more for gifts. If we can come up with 25 items total we'll get the discount (and I will get a free piece of jewelry, :-D).
By the way, it may seem weird to put a necklace on a boy, but I saw pictures and they were totally adorable. Some of them look kind of like those chunky beach-y looking necklaces that guys wear. Apparently, even adult men wear them too. (Of course, my husband would have to be in more than just pain to put one on himself....)
Any interest? Or do you think it's totally crazy? Let me know!
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
The Tapestry
As the cock crowed, sunlight leaked through the wooden chinks of the log cabin and a gnarled old woman lifted herself from the quilted bed. She slowly made her way to the corner where stood her loom. Painstakingly polished and oiled, the loom was in perfect order, ready to build, to create; ready to perform a miracle. Around the loom, in meticulously twisted loops and balls, was the thread, a myriad of colors piled high in deep rainbow mounds. All the colors of sunlight shone there; there sparkled every shade of the sea. And there, the woman sat down to start working. Deliberately, she began her magic, weaving together the separate threads to build what would be a glorious whole. As she worked, the front door creaked slowly open. Two wide, curious blue eyes peered around the threshold, followed by a shock of unkempt, rough blond hair. Slowly, the boy crept into the room and crouched quietly beside the old woman. Nevertheless, she continued her work, unbothered by his steady gaze. For hours he watched her, staring at the jumble of threads and the rough confusion that began to develop from the rainbow fibers. The boy watched, fascinated, until the sun was sucked down over the horizon and darkness consumed the daylight. The very next morning, the boy returned to watch the woman take her place at the loom. The next day was the same, and the next, and the next. Always silent and attentive, he studied her every move as her hands slid among the fabric with strength and grace. Her project seemed a mystery to his young eyes. How would her swiftly moving fingers along with the steady rhythm of the loom ever transform single threads into a whole fabric? Again and again he visited the little cabin and slowly, but surely, her creation began to take shape. The work went on for days, it continued for weeks, and finally it stretched into months. At last, for the first time, the old woman spoke. Firmly, quietly, and with full confidence she uttered, “It is finished.” Tenderly, lovingly, she laid the cloth over a chair and leaned back with a sigh of pride. Somehow, however, it wasn’t what the boy expected it to be. In fact, he somehow felt frustration welling up inside him at the sight of the finished product. He could only stare at it. The woman turned to him, “What is wrong, child?” she asked. With disappointment so strong, he could almost taste it, the boy shook his head. “It’s done?” he demanded, incredulous, “That’s all?” The woman only nodded. The boy was obviously disturbed, even upset. “But......it’s a mess!” he ran his fingers over the tangled web of knots and snarls. “You spent so many hours....and this is all?” He rushed to the piles of thread. “Why did you use these ugly colors?” he demanded “Maybe that’s why it’s so, so....ugly.” he held pieces of thread in his hand: a rough brownish orange piece and a dirty olive green strand. “Some of these pieces have even been knotted together where the thread broke.” For some reason the boy felt deep concern for creation that wasn’t even his own. “But Child, I also used lovely, whole pieces.” the woman reminded him softly, patiently.“Look” she held up to the light an iridescent silvery strand that caught the sun and threw it back, a beautiful, shining piece of moonlight, dangling from her fingertips. “It is the many different pieces together that make the masterpiece. Until now, you have never seen my work from my side of it. Of course it is a mess to you, but I will show you how things really are.” Carefully, she lifted the cloth and turned it around. There lay the most magnificent tapestry he had ever laid his eyes upon. Words could never describe the brilliant colors blended together in perfect harmony....a masterpiece such as few have ever seen. All the boy could think was that this, this was undoubtedly a precious treasure fit for a King.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.”-Romans 8:28 God uses the good, the bad and the ugly in our lives to make us into the beautiful creations He has planned us to be. While all we may see is the tangles and knots of our confused existence, God sees the whole. And it is good. For He has dreamed glorious things for you and He will make it happen in your life. So do not despair in the heartbreak and do not grow faint in the fire; He is melting your heart to reshape it into the very heart of God. For He has began a good work in you and He will carry it on into completion. Praise be to His glorious grace!
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.”-Romans 8:28 God uses the good, the bad and the ugly in our lives to make us into the beautiful creations He has planned us to be. While all we may see is the tangles and knots of our confused existence, God sees the whole. And it is good. For He has dreamed glorious things for you and He will make it happen in your life. So do not despair in the heartbreak and do not grow faint in the fire; He is melting your heart to reshape it into the very heart of God. For He has began a good work in you and He will carry it on into completion. Praise be to His glorious grace!
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