iDocument

Are you ready to swing into Spring??

2011-02-07T20:55:00.000-06:00

Do you remember how as a kid you loved to play on a swing set for hours and hours?

I am SURE that your children are no different. There's just something fabulous about a swing set!

At swingsetsandmore.com, one of the more than 200 CSN online stores, you'll find a wide selection of swing sets and oh so much more!

I know that my kids would be thrilled to have either of these beauties:

CSN is even shipping these sets and many more FREE, that's right, FREE SHIPPING on many of their swing sets!

Swingsetsandmore.com also has a huge selection of trampolines, playhouses, climbing towers, slides, and tons more!! There's sure to be something perfect for your children and your backyard!

Need help making a decision? Check out the step by step buying guide to choosing a swing set.

Found me some JEANS!

2010-11-24T10:51:00.000-06:00

I am wearing them right now (with all tags intact, you know, as a trial run). We'll see if they pass the test of time. I am stoked about them at the moment though! They sit a tad below the waist, which for me is great! They're actually long enough... another plus. And the best part is that I got them at ROSS for $25! (So I saved over $650, not too bad!) I am not a huge fan of Ross... the one nearest to us is ~~pretty~~ extremely ghetto, but I found two pairs of jeans, so I put up with the less-than-desirable ambiance. I didn't find much else, but who cares, I got jeans! Woo hoo!

Here's a link to them if you wanna check them out!
http://www.calvinkleinjeans.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3465142&cp=3430137.3525304.3430160

How much!?

2010-11-23T15:58:00.000-06:00

I know that a good pair of jeans can be priceless.... but $685? Are these gold encrusted or something?! That's just NUTS!

I remember back in the "good ole days" a pair of designer jeans were about $25... yep I'm talking about Jordache! Remember these?

I'm currently on the hunt for a great fitting pair of jeans. They have to be stylish and simply cannot cost a hundred bucks! I need a pair with longer than 1-inch zipper, but not something that looks like "mom jeans". Although, I am a mom ... so technically they'll be mom jeans regardless. I am totally aware that this won't be easy, but I will find the perfect pair! I'll let you know when I do.

Got any suggestions? What are your favorite jeans?

Happy Birthday K3!

2010-10-02T14:52:00.000-05:00

Someone actually did it!

2010-10-01T09:49:00.001-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, I joked about duct taping my son, so I could change his diaper. I never in a million years thought that someone would actually do it! I saw this last night on Inside Edition. Appalling! This is so sad! Apparently his 18 year old mom and her 19 year old boyfriend were high and thought this would be funny. Not so much! (These pictures are of the poor little boy that they taped, NOT MY SON!) They went on to tape his sippy cup to the wall, just out of his reach. Sad.

Click here to read full story!

Seriously, Why!?

2010-09-22T08:34:00.000-05:00

KFC Original Double Down - 540 Calories - 32 Grams of Fat - 1380 mg of Sodium

I think my butt is getting bigger just looking at this monster. Jamie Oliver, have you seen this?

Spoiled milk and a sign from God

2010-09-15T17:18:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I went to town. I went to get a gallon of milk, we were completely out.

While I was driving home I started praying to God. I was praying about something that has been weighing heavily on my heart and mind lately. I was asking God whether or not I was doing the right thing. I was asking for a sign (not directly), but that's what I was looking for.

Then all of a sudden right in front of my eyes was the brightest falling star I'd ever seen. My mouth fell open and my lips quivered, I was brought to tears.

I mean I've seen falling stars before, but usually I just catch a glimpse of one out of the corner eye. I'm usually unsure if it was really a falling star or if could have been something else.

This time was different. It was an undeniably bright light, right there in front of me. It lasted a long time too. It was probably like 5 seconds, but it seemed like forever. It seemed to span 100 yards or more. It went straight down, right in my path.

I was so moved by this falling star, this sign, and just couldn't wait to come inside to share my experience with Mr. Wonderful, which I did. I was so moved that I forgot about the milk I had in my car. The milk that K1 would have loved to have had for his cereal this morning. The milk that I had gone to town to get.

I remembered the milk... around 10 this morning. Long after K1 and Mr. Wonderful had gone to school/work. It was now hot and spoiled milk.

Oh well, I'll take a sign from God over fresh milk any day!

Have you ever had a sign from God?

Is it Fall y'all?

2010-09-14T14:39:00.000-05:00

Well according to the calendar it's Fall. But, we're still hot as Hades here in Texas. I am so ready for some cooler weather.

Since my mind is already into Fall, I decided to make some caramel apples. I love them! I'm also going to fire up my Fall scents in my scentsy burner... bring on the spice!

The recipe was supposed to make 5 apples... but I ate too many caramels beforehand... so we got 4.

Super easy. Super delicious!

Are you ready for Fall?

We will never forget...

2010-09-11T12:25:00.000-05:00

I took these photos at Ground Zero - 2 1/2 years after the attacks. It was still somber. It always will be. No one will ever forget where they were when they heard the news...

Nope I didn't drop it in the toilet...

2010-09-09T09:26:00.000-05:00

Tropical Store Hermine was in full effect in Texas on Tuesday. Along with thousands of other folks, our power went out. This is where it gets interesting. Before the power went out I planned on boiling some water to make iced tea. I had the burner on high. I kept wondering why the kettle wasn't whistling... so I moved it to a different burner. Then it dawned on me... duh, no power!

Well a couple of hours later it came back on! Woo hoo!

After a few minutes I smelled something burning and then I saw a bit of smoke.

What the....

Then I saw that large burner glowing in bright orange, with my Blackberry smack dab in the middle of it. Here is the end result.

The strange thing is that it still works!

Sunday reflection

2010-09-05T09:47:00.001-05:00

"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear ... "
1 John 4:18

Do you do it once a week?! Eeek!

2010-09-03T09:04:00.000-05:00

Oh my! I heard last week on the Today Show that makeup brushes should be washed once a week!!

I certainly don't wash mine weekly, do you?

I tried to remember the last time I did wash them... and realized it had probably been about 6 months. Eeek!

I think once a week is probably a bit excessive, but perhaps I better do it more than twice annually!

Epic Fail!

2010-09-01T22:44:00.000-05:00

K1 loves cheesecake (okay honestly we ALL love it!). So we decided to make one a Back To School Cheesecake.

It started out great.

K1 used the rolling pin to crush the graham crackers.

We worked together to get all the ingredients mixed up.

Lookin' good, right?!

We popped in the oven to bake for one hour. And per the instructions we left in the oven for a few hours to cool, you know, so it won't crack... Well...

The sucker cracked, like the Grand Canyon!

Oh well, it was delish any way!

We ate every. single. bite.

(We've made this same recipe several times... sometimes it cracks, sometimes it doesn't.) Hmpf.

Hot Yogurt?!

2010-08-26T08:15:00.001-05:00

I've noticed these things in the baby food isle lately. Not in the refrigerated section. There's just something about yogurt which is still edible even if it's gotten hot that freaks me out. What is in this stuff? It just ain't right.

My 2-year-old cusses... and I am so proud!

2010-08-25T08:07:00.003-05:00

Yep, it's true. K2 says "ass", a lot. Well, he means "yes", but it sounds like "ass". It cracks us up. The reason we're so proud is because up until about 3 months ago, he didn't say much at all. He was 22 months old before he said mama. So hearing "ass" is like music to my ears! He also says "caca", which is a term of endearment for his little brother.

He's had pretty intense speech therapy for the last year or so. We'll take him saying "ass" is progress!!! Go K2! Who knows what will come out of his mouth next!

Is it legal to duct tape your kid?

2010-08-24T08:09:00.001-05:00

Seriously is it? My 10 month old (K3) is such a wiggle worm! It's a challenge just to get his diaper changed. And putting on his pajamas?! Forget about it. It takes two of us. Well I'm exaggerating a tad, but seriously it's tough. He flips and rolls like no body's business. You have to change him with ninja-like quickness. It would be so much easier if I could just duct tape him to the changing table.

Of course I'd never really duct tape this little nugget, but the thought has crossed my mind!

Mr. Wonderful bought himself a purse!

2010-08-23T10:02:00.002-05:00

Okay, okay before he kills me... he bought it for me!
He did it all on his own, just for me! I was so surprised and impressed! I love it! Thanks babe.
I don't call him Mr. Wonderful for nothing. {grin}

Sunday reflection

2010-08-22T09:25:00.004-05:00

Jesus told him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.

~ John 14:6, NLT

Potty Training Rocks Sucks!

2010-08-21T08:21:00.009-05:00

K2 & K1 think it's pretty fun/funny though! This is the second time that my 2 year old has TRIED to pee on my 9 year old. Little punk. Now if he'd just pee in the toilet. Arggghhhh, BOYS!

Okay so he does actually make it in the potty... sometimes!

Single, Anal & Childless

2010-08-20T08:19:00.001-05:00

I'm convinced that the person who invented stainless steel appliances must be single, anal and childless!

Our fridge is gorgeous and semi-spotless about 1% of the time. The other 99% of the time it's covered in teeny tiny handprints and lovely smudges or smears. Unless I decided to stand by it 24/7 armed with a bottle of stainless steel cleaner in my hand, it ain't changing any time soon.

It looked so gorgeous in the store... but come to think of it, it was covered in plastic! Maybe that's what I need to do, cover that sucker in saran wrap. Never again!

Am I alone here?

I've been tagged!

2010-08-18T15:51:00.002-05:00

I've been tagged by my IRL and blog friend Jen over at Jenn B Says. She is hilarious. But be warned there is adult content on her blog. Well not like that (get your mind out of the gutter people). I mean like adult language. Anyway check her out, like I said she is hilarious.

I have to answer 8 questions that she composed for me... so here goes. Oh and thanksomuch Jenn B!

1. I’m giving you $1000 to spend on YOURSELF. What are you going to buy?
I'm dying to buy a new comforter for our bed! I'm looking for something with burnt orange (paprika) and light gray. I'll probably have some change from that and I'd then buy some new tennies. Apparently my last 2 pregnancies have caused my feet to grow! I've always been a 7.5, but suddenly now I'm an 8. Crazy things happen post baby, no?! What else... I think I'd buy myself of slew of new Mac makeup. Mine is pretty much all crumbs.

2. What kind of car do you and your significant other drive? Love them or hate them (the car, not the significant other)?
Oh boy. Let me preface this with they're both PAID OFF, so don't judge. I drive an '02 Envoy and the hubs drives a '00 F-150. We're in dire need of a Suburban, or something bigger to tote all the punks around.

3. If you had to buy me a gift, what would it be? There’s a $50 limit.
Oh I think I'd buy you a gift certificate to the iPhone App store, is that possible? Oh scratch that I'd get you a mani/pedi !

4. Who is your favorite blogger (big or small) to read?
I love Pioneer Woman. But I hate her too. I mean seriously she can't possibly write all of her posts can she? For heaven's sake, she married a millionaire... she's bound to have several assistants, right?
I love Remodelaholic and Young House Love and Post Secret.

5. When cooking, which ingredient do you use in most of your dishes?
Hmmm... that would be beef. We get Mr. Wonderful's grandfather's calves butchered every six months or so, so we've got a lot of yummy grass-fed (mostly) beef.

6. Who is your BFF in the blogging world?
Oh this one is tough. I guess I'd have to say Chelsea over at From My Front Porch.

7. Tell me about one or some of your quirks or idiosyncrasies.
I always have great ideas and intentions. I often fall short on the follow through. It drives me crazy. I guess that maybe once my kids are a little older I'll have more time? Probably not though, because then I'll become a taxi driver. Maybe during retirement?

Another one is if I don't have at least 8 hours of sleep I am one grumpy gal. (My kids inherited that too.) Some people can sleep like 4 hours and be happy as a lark, not me.

8. What is your guilty pleasure as far as TV goes?
Hmm... I'd have to say E! News. I also started watching the dumb show Jerseylicious. WHY??? I have no idea, but I do. Oh and I'm a Today Show junkie too.

Okay now I have to tag some people.... so here ya go. I'm supposed to tag 8, but I only have 3?! Oh well!
From My Front Porch
Kent & Jenna
Country Boy and City Girl
Beicker Family
Hagan Family

Please answer these questions and play along!!!
1. What is your hubby's best and worst habits?
2. What's your go-to in-a-hurry meal?
3. How old were you when you got married?
4. Do you enjoy this Texas heat or would you rather be in a cooler place?
5. If you could only read one blog a day (not your own) which one would it be?
6. How often do you clean your house, top to bottom?
7. Do you love your job or if you could do it all over again would you do something different?
8. How many kids do you want to have? (If any!?)

Deal of the year!

2010-08-15T16:44:00.001-05:00

I've been drooling over these Learning Towers for 9 years! I wanted one for K1... then for K2... and of course now for K3. They run about two hundred bucks... yep that's 200 big ones. Yikes! We've got much better ways to spend our money than on one of these suckers.

BUT...I love Goodwill hunting. I love the challenge and excitement of the search, the thrill of a great find. I love making up stories about where the objects have been... where they came from, why they're at Goodwill. I just love it all. The best part is that you NEVER know what you'll find. I get excited just thinking about shopping at one. It's not everyone's cup of tea, but it is mine. Case in point, I found a brand spankin' new Learning Tower for $19.99. Still in the box, no parts missing! I was so pumped! K2 is totally loving it too. Now he can safely help me cook/bake any time he wants!

I wonder where all of my Goodwill donations end up!?

Ebay is dumb.

2010-08-11T15:47:00.001-05:00

Today in my inbox I received an email from Ebay. It said "here are some recommendations for you"! Man they must REALLY know me! NOT. These were my personalized suggestions, you know, because they know me so well.

I haven't worn pantyhose in at least 10 years. Do they still make Coloralls?! I wonder if that package is from the 80s? Then they have suggested that I buy some plus size clothes... hmmmm sure I've gained some weight over the past couple of years (2 pregnancies will do that to ya), but I don't think that I'm considered plus size just yet. Then on to the gymboree girls clothes ... wrong again Ebay, I've got three boys.

Thanks for these fabulous finds Ebay, I'll get right on that bidding...

I wonder how they pick this stuff!?

Blizzards in Texas

2010-08-10T15:18:00.001-05:00

Yesterday my oldest son (K1) who is 9, got his cast off of his leg. Woo hoo! Well he still has to wear a boot, but it's removable, so that's HUGE! I decided that I would get him a celebratory Blizzard from Dairy Queen. We very rarely go to any fast food joints for meals, much less just for an ice cream treat, so it's a big deal around here!

I ordered him a small cheesecake Blizzard and the cashier said, "that'll be $3.02 please drive forward." WHAT?! Three bucks for a small milkshake thingy? WOAH. I was floored. I mean they are good, but DQ must be REALLY proud of their blizzards!

I guess I don't get out much, but man, I could totally buy at least a quart of ice cream at the grocery store for that price. Of course I paid for it and it made K1 super happy, so it was totally worth it. But geez!

To top it off, the DQ worker is supposed to turn it upside down right before serving it to you, and they didn't even do that! Oh well.

Is it just me, or is that one high-priced treat??

Anyone?

Bueller?

Join the Boob-olution!

2010-08-03T16:17:00.003-05:00

August is National Breastfeeding month. I cannot begin to tell you all of the benefits of this womanly art. Okay I will begin... it lowers the risk of childhood CANCERS!!! That right there is enough for me! But I'll let "The Bump" (a fantastic website) explain it for you... keep in mind this is just a sampling of the benefits! Extended breastfeeding may not always be the easiest commitment, but it is the most rewarding and the least selfish thing that a mom can do for her baby.

10 reasons why
breastfeeding doesn't suck...

1. You'll feel far less crazy (we promise!)
A study of postpartum mamas found that those who breastfed their babies showed far less anxiety and more mutuality at one month postpartum than those who didn't.

2. It lowers the risk of childhood cancers
One study found the risk of childhood cancer in formula-fed children was 2-8 times that of long-term breastfed children. The risk for short-term formula feeders was 1-9 times that of long-term breast feeders.

3. ...And breast cancer in mamas!
Get this: If women who breast fed for less than 3 months were to stick it out for 4 to 12 months, breast cancer among parous premenopausal women could be reduce by 11%. And if they stayed with it for 24 months or longer, those risks could be reduced by nearly 25%.

4. Smart kids rule
Studies show that breastfed babies have significantly higher IQs by 8 years old than babies who didn't breastfeed -- even after adjusting the stats for differences between groups and Mom's educational and social class.

5. You could save on braces
The longer you breastfeed, the lower the liklihood that baby will suffer from malocclusion -- aka a fancy word for misalignment of the teeth and dental arches.

6. It cuts down on childhood obesity
Breastfeeding has long been tied with reducing the rate of childhood obesity, regardless of Mom's diabetes or weight status.

7. Allergies and ailments are no biggie
Respiratory wheezing, influenza, diarrhea, allergies, and eczema are way less common in breastfed babies -- think about all those trips to the doc you won't have to make!

8. It saves lives -- and government money!
If just 90% of US mamas breastfed exclusively for 6 months, not only would an estimated 900 babies live, but the United States would save $13 billion per year. (Yep, $13 BILLION.)

9. Oh, and it'll save you a ton of cash, too
Believe it or not, formula supplies for just six months can cost upwards of $1,000.

10. You'll fit into your skinny jeans faster!
Breastfeeding burns an average of 500 calories a day. Yes, really. Need we say more?

Source: The Bump
(I do realize that some moms aren't able to BF for various reasons and they can still be great moms!)

Baby Carrier Reviews!

2010-07-20T01:08:00.002-05:00

My first ever baby carrier was a Baby Bjorn. Oh did that leave a bad taste in my mouth! Those suckers are SO uncomfortable! While they're pretty simple to put on, my back hurt within 10 minutes (even with a newborn!). (To their defense I'm sure their carriers have evolved over the years.)Anyway, I've been super skeptical of other carriers since then, but I totally shouldn't have been! I've actually had GREAT luck with some carriers and I would love to share some reviews with you. So, without further ado here is some insight from my IRL friend and myself.

(This post is duplicated with permission from my beautiful IRL friend Chelsea over at "From My Front Porch")

I adore baby wearing.

I started because I was obsessed with my precious baby and didn’t want to put her down. Oh, and for the bonding. I still do it because it makes her happy, it allows me some freedom, it’s cute, and it beats pushing a stroller. It is handy when you don’t want a hundred people to ask to hold your baby, or when being close to you is the only thing that soothes your babe. There are many, many benefits and I plan to do it as long as she’ll let me. {and then I’ll start in on her brother(s)/sister(s)} But like most anything in the baby product industry, the selection out there is overwhelming. I’m certainly no seasoned expert, but I AM opinionated. So I’ve reviewed every carrier I’ve tried.

Furthermore, I’ve asked my real life friend Kristin over at iDocument, who is a mama to three handsome boys to review her carriers.

Hope our babywearin’ can give you some useful guidance...

Carrier- Moby Wrap

Approximate Cost- $40

One Place to Buy- Full Circle Baby (New Braunfels!)

Weight Limits- preemie-35 pounds (even twins!)

Carry Options-8 holds including front, back, and hip

Pros- This wrap is extremely soft and customizable. It comes in a bunch of great colors and is affordable. It seems to be the most comfortable for baby since you can adjust so many different aspects of it. The instruction book shows countless tying/positioning options. Feels very secure while moving about.

Cons- It is a lot of fabric and takes a little practice to get good at tying it. In the summer, it is just too hot for Texas. The Baby Daddy won’t wear it. (even though I got burnt orange!)

My Take- Great for winter as it keeps both of you warm. It never hurts my back because the weight is evenly spread and can be adjusted. Also, you can spread the fabric to cover up post-baby blubber. When I wear it at church I tie it on the side so the knot doesn’t dig into my back while sitting. You can put the baby on your back alone, but it is much easier with help. I adored the breastfeeding hold when Kherington was younger because I could walk around buying groceries while she discreetly nursed and then nodded off. I can still breastfeed in it, but it isn’t hands-free. A-

Carrier- Balboa Baby Adjustable Sling by Dr. Sears

Approximate Cost- $60

One Place to Buy- Target.com

Weight Limits- 6-25 pounds

Carry Options- 4 holds including front and hip

Pros- Adorable patterns. Well padded shoulder strap, adjustable ring. Comfortable to sit, stand, or move while wearing. There is a pocket on the outside for keys, phone, etc. The Baby Daddy doesn’t mind wearing it. No spare fabric in the way, like some ring slings.

Cons- You only wear it on one shoulder at a time, putting more strain on your back. Only goes to 25 pounds.

My Take- This is my “go-to” sling because it is so easy to throw on. Kherington loves the hip hold, and it allows me to use both hands and get things done. I wear her in this sling for hours and get loads of compliments. I breastfeed in it, too. A

Carrier- Infantino Wrap & Tie
Approximate Cost- $30
One Place to Buy- Amazon.com
Weight Limits- 8-35 pounds
Carry Options- 3 holds, front and back
Pros- Shows tying instructions on the inside, so even Baby Daddies can figure it out. No adjustments, clips, or rings to worry about.
Cons- It says babies can face outwards, but I have found it too uncomfortable for Kherington because the fabric is so wide that she is doing the splits. Only two color/pattern options. Knot can only be tied in the back, which hurts if you sit down. Also, the straps make back fat and love handles more noticeable.
My Take- This is fairly comfortable and ideal for 3-4 month olds (front) and then for 8-10 month olds (back). I got this as a free replacement for the recalled Infantino Sling (which I loved). I’ll use it since I have it, but probably wouldn’t buy it again. B-

Carrier- Hotslings Pouch-Style Baby Carrier
Approximate Cost- $40
One Place to Buy- All Modern Baby
Weight Limits- 8-35 pounds
Carry Options- 3 holds including front and hip
Pros- Simple. Instructional DVD and demonstration card.
Cons- Fabric feels cheap. It is not soft or stretchy. The padding is minimal.
My Take- I hated this sling and returned it right away. To be fair, mine was too large, even though I used the sizing chart on the back of the box. Still, this sling was not comfortable for me. C

Carrier- Ergobaby
Approximate Cost- $100 - $150
One Place to Buy- Ergobaby.com
Weight Limits- birth (with insert) to 40 lbs.
Carry Options- 3 holds including front, back, and hip
Pros- Very comfortable and can be worn for an extended amount of time. Easy to get on and off (very!). Child is very secure while in the carrier. It has a hood for sleeping baby, or to shade the baby. Can be worn by moms or dads without purchasing 2 carriers. Babies can comfortably sleep in this carrier. Truly handsfree.
Cons- Hard to sit while wearing the carrier/baby. It gets a bit hot when wearing your baby in the summer for long periods of time. Baby cannot face out while being worn in the front. The waist strap accentuates back fat. It's a bit pricey, but honestly you can get this carrier and purchase no stroller!
Kristin’s Take- This carrier is a lifesaver! I wear my 9 month old daily and on occassion my 2 year old and it is so comfortable . I highly recommend the Ergobaby. It is simple to use (with no help from others) and is very comfortable. To me this carrier has been priceless. A++

Carrier- Zolowear (ring sling) Solstice
Approximate Cost- $90
One Place to Buy- Zolowear.com
Weight Limits- birth (with caution) to 35 lbs.
Carry Options- 4 holds, including front and hip
Pros- It's great for sitting or standing. It's easy to use (once you get the hang of it). It is stylish and looks good with most outfits. It has a handy pocket for a pacifier, wipes or even a diaper. It's flattering (no back fat being squished!). It comes with an instructional DVD for ease of use. It's made in Texas! This carrier allows you to discreetly breastfeed.
Cons- Not so cute on men. It hurts your shoulders if worn for long periods of time. It's tough for older babies to sleep in this carrier.
Kristin’s Take- I love my sling, but I wear it only when I know it won't be an extended period of time. I usually wear this one when I'm more dressed up and when I know I'll be both sitting and standing. B

Others I would like to try: Babyhawk, Kozy Karrier, Karma Baby, Ergobaby (maybe I should just try Kristin’s on!)

Lifesaver!

2010-07-15T16:43:00.002-05:00

Source: CSN Stores (this isn't my munchkin, but he's cute, huh?)

We've FINALLY put munchkin #3 in his own crib at night. This little gadget made it so much easier for me! It is amazing! I can't believe that we made it through 2 other munchkins with out it! I know, I know a lot of you don't see the need... but for me it equaled instant peace of mind! I can see and hear him with out disturbing him - even in the dark! I love it. No more worrying if he is okay or not. I can turn it on silent too, and just watch him!

Not only does it have night-vision, but you can play music from the handheld monitor with the push of a button! I love this little piece of equipment and I'll be using it for years to come!! It will be so useful to put in the boys' room when I can't be in there to watch them! I can also catch them in their shenanigans when their older, ha!

You can get your own right here at one of CSN's 200 stores.

Munchkin #3

Source: CSN Stores

From the manufacturer: There is nothing more important to you than your child’s safety and security. You want to be with them day and night to know that they are safe at all times. But with so much to do around the house in an average day, you know that it isn’t always possible. The BABYVIEW20 is Levana’s easy-to-use video baby monitor that ensures you’re always there for your loved one. This portable system allows you to watch over your child with a handheld monitor and be alerted whenever she makes a sound, even when the system is in standby mode. The night vision feature allows you to see your child when it’s dark, and you can play comforting lullabies directly from the camera. The BABYVIEW20 is the perfect solution for every parent - now you can rest easy knowing your child is safe!

Levana BABYVIEW20 Highlights

Set it Up in Seconds

Just switch on the camera and monitor and the system is ready to use. You will immediately see what the camera sees on the LCD screen.

Watch Your Child with No Interference -- Clear Signal Technology

A digital wireless system ensures that you get a clear picture of your baby at all times.
No interference from cordless phones, microwave ovens, WiFi signals (from wireless routers), Bluetooth devices, or other wireless devices in your home.
All video and audio of your baby is kept private and secure -- a digital signal ensures a secure link that can not be intercepted.
Watch your baby anywhere in the house or outside (up to 150 ft).

Hassle-Free Portable Monitoring

The battery-powered monitor makes carrying it around easy and convenient. The included rechargeable Lithium-ion battery gives you up to 4.5 hours of continuous use, allowing you to easily move the monitor from room to room. A low battery indicator lets you know when the battery needs to be recharged. Just plug the monitor into a wall outlet to charge the battery or for long term use.

Around The Clock Monitoring with Standby Mode

Standby mode allows you to rest easy, but be alerted instantly. This feature shuts off the monitor’s screen and audio. It will only turn back on when your child starts to cry or make noise. You will be immediately notified on the monitor you when your child starts to cry -- the LCD and audio will switch on.

Night Vision Allows You To Watch Over Your Child Both Day and Night!

See your child at night with built-in night vision. Infrared LEDs output light that is invisible to the human eye but can be seen on the monitor. The night vision will turn on automatically when it gets dark and allow you to see up to 15ft away. It also turns off during the day to save energy.

(I was NOT compensated for this opinion, it is all of my own accord!)

Black bean burgers! DELISH!

2010-07-12T21:08:00.001-05:00

These burgers are so easy and delicious, not to mention great for you!! You should totally try them out!

Black Bean Burgers

2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
2 Tbsp olive oil
1/2 red onion, diced
1 1/2 tsp oregano
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp kosher salt
A few grinds ground pepper
1/2 tsp lime juice
1 tsp Tabasco
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup plain bread crumbs
A few extra tablespoons olive oil

For serving:
Hamburger buns
Ketchup
Mustard
Tomatoes
Avocados
Lettuce

Add the beans to a large bowl and mash with a masher or your hands. Set aside.

In a small skillet, heat 2 Tbsp olive oil over medium high heat. Add onions and saute until softened, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. Add to black beans. Add oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, lime juice, Tabasco, garlic and bread crumbs. Stir well to combine.

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and add a few tablespoons olive oil, enough to coat the bottom of the pan. Shape black bean mixture into patties and cook on each side for 3-5 minutes.

Serve on hamburger buns with whatever condiments you like.

Yields 6 burgers.

NOTES: Instead of shaping the patties as big as a regular hamburger, I would make them small and thick. Once you bite into your black bean burger, the burger is going to spread and flatten. So making them smaller will leave room for spreading on the bun.

Source: Rookie-Cookie

There's an APP for that...

2010-07-09T10:33:00.002-05:00

Okay, maybe not actually an APP... but it works!

We have no home phone in our home. Mr. Wonderful and I rely on our cell phones. He is never far from his phone, as for me... I loose it often! It's so frustrating for me at times when I cannot find it! I usually just wait until someone calls me, but I hate that! So look what I found:

http://www.wheresmycellphone.com/

This website lets you type in your phone number and it will call your phone so you can find it! Awesome! I've done it several times and have never had any problems with prank calls or any unsolicited calls! YAY! Maybe you can use it someday too!

(UPDATE: You may not want to actually ANSWER your phone when it rings... it may or may not be sex hotline. I was told this by my IRL Jenn friend. Just hit ignore!)

Fruit (and veggie) smoothies!

2010-07-06T19:59:00.001-05:00

We love making fruit smoothies during our hot Texas summers. We don't really follow a recipe as such, but usually use the same ingredients. Basically we put a handful of strawberries, blue berries, black berries, a couple of bananas, a 1/3 cup of splenda, a handful of spinach (you don't taste it at all) one container of vanilla yogurt, 12 or so ice cubes, a dash of vanilla and a splash of vanilla soy milk! Dump it all in the blender and puree until smooth... instant refreshment!

Everyone in my family loves them and they're good for ya too! You should totally try it!

Independence Day!

2010-07-02T10:13:00.000-05:00

I hope that you all have fun plans for this weekend! We're excited to watch the city parade and fireworks and then set off some of our own!

Our little city is know for having the largest small-town parade in the world (okay maybe not world, but America?!). Seriously it goes on for hours! It includes lots of pretty floats and lots of low-riders. Some of those low-riders are pretty cool with their hydraulics or whatever it's called... but some roll through like they just accidentally got in the parade line, not a decoration or a bit of charisma in sight.

Since we'll be downtown watching the festivities I decided to make a couple of shirts for the littlest 2 munchkins to wear. I used some old t-shirts that I had lying around to make the shapes and then adhered them with wonder under! I would have made big munchkin one too, but he said ummm they're cute mom, but no thanks!

I still need to sew around the shapes and then wash them, but they're almost done!

Fortunately we live out of the city limits so we can set off all of these:

We LOVE doing this... especially Mr. Wonderful and Munchkin #1. Hopefully the weather will cooperate with us, but if not we'll do it another night. We also love to sit outside and watch the city's fireworks. They are pretty darn good for a small town.

I'm going to attempt to make these tonight too... wish me luck!

I'm not going to add the icing on top... I think they'll be plenty sweet and cute with out that! If you'd like the recipe click this link: patriotic cookies.
source: http://jamiecooksitup.blogspot.com/

Happy 4th of July, y'all!

DIY wreath - on the cheap!

2010-07-01T11:54:00.001-05:00

Can you guess what this is made out of?! Give up?

Lima beans!! Who would have thought?!

Well I found the tutorial on this little guy on a great blog and just HAD to make one! I think they are super cute. Here is the link to the tutorial if you'd like to make one yourself! Just click the link below!

Lima bean wreath tutorial

Yellow squash chorizo tacos

2010-06-30T10:58:00.001-05:00

Because we've had an abundance of squash... I've been forced to get creative with some recipes. I found this one and it was delish!!!

Yellow Squash Chorizo Tacos

1 Tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
1 medium yellow squash, diced
1 tsp kosher salt
A few grinds black pepper
1/2 tsp ground cumin
10 oz pork chorizo ( I used turkey chorizo... who knew?!)
1 14 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
1 14 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
Tortillas for serving
Guacamole for serving

In a large skillet over medium high heat, add the olive oil. Once the oil runs quickly in the pan, add the onion, yellow squash, salt, pepper and cumin. Saute until onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Add chorizo and break up using a wooden spoon. Once chorizo is broken up, add the tomatoes and black beans. Stir until well combined. Cook until chorizo is cooked through, about 10 minutes, stirring often.

Serve a scoopful of chorizo filling in a tortilla with guacamole.

source: http://rookie-cookierecipes.blogspot.com/

Ketchup, Catsup, Catchup, Katsup, Catsip, Cotsup, Kotchup, Kitsip, Catsoup, Katshoup, Katsock, Cackchop, Cornchop, Cotpock, Kotpock, Kutpuck, Kutchpuck and Cutchpuck

2010-06-27T21:11:00.003-05:00

No Matter How You Spell It,
It's America's Favorite Condiment...
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Ketchup (Catsup)
(source: globalgourmet.com//food/sleuth/0799/)

We've been blessed this year with plenty of rain... which in turn means lottsa veggies in our garden!! We (errr Mr. Wondeful) planted 19 tomato plants this year (Romas and Celebrities) and they've been so fruitful for us! We've already made hot sauce and tomato basil sauce... but we still had mucho tomatoes!

Tomato Basil Summer Sauce

Salsa

It was pretty much a no-brainer what we'd do with our next harvest... MAKE CATSUP!!

Making catsup has long been a family tradition on my dad's side of the family, so naturally we've decided to carry it on with our family. My mom and dad came over bright and early (yes 8:30 is early to me!) to get started. Since Mr. Wonderful and I were catsup-making virgins, we needed close supervision and instruction. It's much better to have on the job training for this sorta thing!

If you've ever made catsup before, you know that in order to get a decent yield you must start with a LOT of tomatoes!

We used a ton of our own home-grown tomatoes and then were lucky enough to be given quite a few more from Mr. Wonderful's uncle who lives just down the road from us. We ended up with so many tomatoes that we spent a total of 13 hours making the yummy condiment. How much catsup did we end up, after slaving over the stove for 13 hours you ask? Well, we're proud to say that we made 35 pints, larger than any batch my parents have made to date!

Personally what I treasured the most about making it was the time spent together with my parents. Watching, listening, laughing and learning from them is simply priceless. If you'd have asked me 10 years ago if I'd ever see myself making catsup or canning anything I would have bet money that my answer would have been NO!!

It's funny how over time I've starting walking more closely in their footsteps, what a wonderful thing!!

Mom and dad, hard at it!

Get all the advice and instruction you can, so you will be wise the rest of your life.

~ Proverbs 19:20, NLT

My father very rarely drinks a beer... this is proof that making catsup is hard work!

And it's a messy job...

But it's so fun!

Oh are you wondering what the munchkins were up to the whole time? Oh nothing much... just being angels of course!

Munchkins 2 and 3

Munchkins 1 and 2 (1 has a broken leg, hence the wheelchair)

From uh-oh to oh-wow!

2010-06-24T23:02:00.001-05:00

We had a woopsie with our (wedding gift) ceramic bathroom trashcan! I wanted something cute to replace it, but I found nothing at a reasonable price, so I headed to Goodwill. I found this ho-hum maroon and gold trashcan that I totally didn't love one bit, but I saw potential.

First I cleaned it up and then sanded that bad boy back to bare wood. I decided to paint it black and I knew I wanted to adorn it with a 5 (since there's 5 peeps in my family). I printed out a large 5 from my computer, traced it onto contact paper, cut it out and then used it as a stencil. Next I just spray painted it with a couple of coats of white paint, and then finally traced around the 5 with a paint pen to clean up the edges and that's it!

It was pretty simple and I think it makes a a nice improvement! The best part is that it only cost me a buck fifty!

Super Dad!

2010-06-19T22:53:00.001-05:00

I am blessed to be married to a true SUPER DAD. He’s totally involved in the lives of all of our boys and is constantly putting the needs of everyone else before his own needs and desires. I cannot begin to describe how truly fabulous he is! If our boys inherit half of his honesty, dedication, faithfulness, compassion, and integrity, they’ll be fine men someday.

I am also blessed to be the daughter of another Super Dad. He and my mom are the most giving people that I've ever known. Thank you for all of your love and guidance and most importantly being a great example for me.

I love you both very much!

I live it Texas, y'all!

2010-06-18T10:26:00.001-05:00

I totally realize that this animal pattern might not be everyone's cup of tea. But for US, it's perfect, don't judege!!! Before the re-do the chairs were simply a ho-hum plain-o tan pattern, and AFTER we've got mucho personality! Who wouldn't want to perch their rumps on these babies?

We live the in the country y'all and we love this cow-hide pattern. It fits our family to the T. Lately we've been on the lookout for a cow-hid rug, but the cost of one of those suckers just isn't at the top of the budget expenditures right now. What's a girl to do? Well naturally I check all of my online resources ... Ebay to the rescue! I found this fabric on for $5 per yard, SCORE! It is soft and fuzzy and simply perfect!

So here ya go... before and afters! And yes I totally realize that we have 5 family members and a 4-person table... thank goodness the two little ones are still in high chairs so we have a little time to enjoy our new seat covers!

Recovering your dining room chairs has got to be one of the simplest makeovers you can do. The hardest part just might be deciding on the fabric. All you have to do is remove the seats from the chairs or if you're like me... just ask Mr. Wonderful to remove them. Next stretch the fabric from side to side and have Mr. Wonderful flex his muscles with the staple gun. We stapled the corners last and it worked marvelously! Before putting them into use we sprayed Scotch Guard to help prevent stains... and that's it!

I even had enough fabric to make these three soft throw pillows for the sofa! Yee Ha!

Simplify!

2010-06-14T16:58:00.003-05:00

I've come to grips with the fact that I just need to get rid of some (tons of) JUNK! I've got too much of everything. I think that we as a nation just tend to hang on to stuff for too long. For now I'm just going to focus on my family, ha! I hang on to so much stuff that I think I'll "need" someday, but in reality most of it has been sitting in boxes in our garage, or in a closet for a couple of years with being used once. So I've decided to launch Operation Simplify in this little casa that we call home. I am a bit overwhelmed with beginning this task that I've put before me, so I've decided to start small, baby steps right!?

What better place to begin than in my own closet? I don't wear a third of the clothes that I have hanging in my closet. I think that I've always felt like I needed quantity over quality when it comes to wardrobe. The older I get the more I realize that just isn't the case. I tend to only buy myself things that are either on super clearance or are sold at inexpensive stores (Walmart, Ross, Melrose, Burkes, Agaci etc.). The problem with this theory is that I very seldom LOVE my clothes, not to mention the fact that they just don't last. It's so strange I have no problem spending money on Mr. Wonderful's clothes, or any of the munchkins, but when it comes to me I just can't do it! So I decided to purge my clothes, you know get down to just the clothes I actually wear (amazing concept, huh?!). There were clothes in there that I hadn't worn in years for various reasons... (ok so maybe I can't fit into them anymore!) but we're just going to say that they're no longer my style.

Here are some photos of today's accomplishment! (Oh and in case you're wondering the tiny clothes pictured do NOT fit me... they belong to my youngest munchkin!) Now I have an excuse to run to our local Goodwill (with 3 stuffed bags to donate)!! The best part is just to step back and say...Ahhhhhhh!

Next I'll tackle hmmm maybe our bathroom cabinets?! Eventually my entire house and garage!

Purge, Purge, Purge

SIMPLIFY

$20 DIY Display Shelves

2010-06-10T14:26:00.001-05:00

Okay, so if you're anything like me you've got SOMETHING to display! Whether it's gorgeous plates, awards, diplomas... there's bound to be something you own that deserves a prominent spot. In my case it's my oldest son's books. We probably need to make a dozen more of these suckers to hold all of his books, but you gotta start somewhere!

I've drooled over Pottery Barn's shelves for quite a while, but the drooling wasn't getting me anywhere, so I decided to take matters into my own hands. Well okay so not really MY hands, but Mr. Wonderful's much more capable hands.

First thing was to figure out exactly how to build these little guys. As luck would have it I found a great tutorial online. And because I'm just so generous, I'll share this great tute with you! So if you're feeling DIYish today or maybe this weekend go ahead and make yourself some of these! The beauty is that you can completely customize them to match any decor! Just click here and then head to your local Home Depot or lumber yard of your choice.

We built all four shelves for 20 bucks! Pottery Barn's shelves are great, but a tad bit (cough, cough) pricey. I think ours look just as great for much, much less!

Happy DIYing!

Baby Cardinals!

2010-06-08T12:10:00.001-05:00

Update: They've all flown away!!

These little guys are right outside my front door, in our hanging basket. It's been fun watching them grow! Something I've learned about cardinals is that the daddy is NOT very involved at all. We also have a swallow family inhabiting our front porch and the daddy is super involved. Strange!

Cinnamon Sugar Muffins

2010-06-07T14:44:00.000-05:00

These little boogers are divine!! Definitely just a special treat since they're full o'sugar... but every now and then a little treat is in order!

Ingredients

1-¾ cup Flour
1-½ teaspoon Baking Powder
½ teaspoons Salt
½ teaspoons Nutmeg
½ teaspoons Cinnamon
⅓ cups Oil
¾ cups White Sugar
1 whole Egg
¾ cups Milk
_____
FOR THE TOPPING:
¼ cups Butter
⅓ cups White Sugar
1 Tablespoon Cinnamon

Preparation Instructions:

Combine flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg and cinnamon.

Combine oil, sugar, egg and milk. Add dry ingredients and stir only to combine.

Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a bowl. Combine the white sugar with the cinnamon in another bowl.

Shake muffins out while still hot. Dip muffins in butter, then into the sugar/cinnamon mix. Let cool.

Source: http://thepioneerwoman.com/tasty-kitchen/

Welcome!

2010-04-28T12:53:00.000-05:00

Thanks for visiting my blog. I'll be posting various subjects here including all those that you see on my header. I can't promise that I'll post everyday, my family is first priority, but I'll post as often as I can! Without further ado let's get started!

iDocument

Are you ready to swing into Spring??

Found me some JEANS!

How much!?

Happy Birthday K3!

Someone actually did it!

Seriously, Why!?

Spoiled milk and a sign from God

Is it Fall y'all?

We will never forget...

Nope I didn't drop it in the toilet...

Sunday reflection

Do you do it once a week?! Eeek!

Epic Fail!

Hot Yogurt?!

My 2-year-old cusses... and I am so proud!

Is it legal to duct tape your kid?

Mr. Wonderful bought himself a purse!

Sunday reflection

Potty Training Rocks Sucks!

Single, Anal & Childless

I've been tagged!

Deal of the year!

Ebay is dumb.

Blizzards in Texas

Join the Boob-olution!

Baby Carrier Reviews!

Lifesaver!

Black bean burgers! DELISH!

There's an APP for that...

Fruit (and veggie) smoothies!

Independence Day!

DIY wreath - on the cheap!

Yellow squash chorizo tacos

Ketchup, Catsup, Catchup, Katsup, Catsip, Cotsup, Kotchup, Kitsip, Catsoup, Katshoup, Katsock, Cackchop, Cornchop, Cotpock, Kotpock, Kutpuck, Kutchpuck and Cutchpuck

No Matter How You Spell It,It's America's Favorite Condiment...Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Ketchup (Catsup)(source: globalgourmet.com//food/sleuth/0799/)

From uh-oh to oh-wow!

Super Dad!

I live it Texas, y'all!

Simplify!

$20 DIY Display Shelves

Baby Cardinals!

Cinnamon Sugar Muffins

Welcome!

No Matter How You Spell It,
It's America's Favorite Condiment...
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Ketchup (Catsup)
(source: globalgourmet.com//food/sleuth/0799/)