simplyAtomic is having a giveaway!!!

Head on over to simplyAtomic for a Playin' Footsie giveaway :)

Jessica makes adorable hats!

http://simplyatomic.net/playin-footsie-giveaway/

Sunbabys...I love you!

I recieved my stash of 12 sunbabys (from http://www.sunbabydiapers.com/) last week. I have to say that I am in love. They are pocket diapers, so you stuff one or several microfiber inserts into the pocket. Not only are they a workhorse diaper but they come in adorable prints. The price is what really got me, though. While it is shocking for an upfront price, it's worth it in the long run.

For 12 diapers and 12 inserts you pay $60.00 (That's $5/diaper) I purchased 12 diapers and 24 inserts so I could have extra inserts and paid $78.00.

I really see these diapers lasting a really long time. Fortunately potty training isn't too far away and I can sell my stash or pass them down to someone who needs them :)

Alva baby!

I recieved our package from Alvababy.com on Wednesday! I ordered two different pinks and a zebra print (I love me some animal print!) Total for this purchase was $16. It's a wonderful deal, the only downside is the shipping time. It took 1 week and 6 days. The website says it can be up to 3 weeks and I heard from someone else it took 25 days each time they ordered.
All of that aside, I'm sort of liking the diapers. They aren't tight around her legs and they don't leave marks. I did notice though that they need to be tightened a little more than the different brands I have bought previously.

http://www.alvababy.com/

This website has a lot of cute diapers, leggings, and wetbags. Go check it out!

Cloth Diapering: My journey

When I was pregnant with Mar it didn't even occur to me to cloth diaper. In fact I didn't even think that it was still being done. I mean that's so 1960's right?? Wrong. There are tons of mamas out there going green and skipping disposable diapers altogether.

I had thought about going cloth when Mar was about 5 months old. I was so sick of paying for disposables diapers and feeling like I was wasting money. The only thing that stopped me was the price. To start a reasonable cloth diaper stash you have to fork over some money. At that point I said "Hell no!".

Fast forward 13 months later...Mar has beyond sensitive skin. She has major eczema that affects her arms, legs, face, and groin. For a month we were clueless (her pediatricitian was litterally stumped) as to what the ugly rash on her thighs and the back of her knees was. Her dermatologist told us it was eczema, it's rare in that area but does happen. GREEAAAAT!!!!

Of course the nurturer in me racked my brain for ways to eliminate how aggrevated the rash got. The decision I came to was cloth diapering. And trust me, this isn't your grandmama's cloth diapering. This is fun, exciting, and saves you money in the long run! I wish I would have started this when she was a new born!!

I've bought a few different brands to try out; Nubunz, Sunbaby, Grovia, Lovely Pocket Diapers and Alvababy.

Yesterday I recieved my Nubunz and Lovely Pocket Diapers. Both brands are pockets. This means that the shell has an area to slide in microfiber inserts to absorb wetness. I started off with the LPD and one insert. This last a good two hours before needing to change her. One of the pros, in my opinion, is the lack of smell. Most disposable diapers have a smell. Whether is smell baby powdery or chemically, it has a smell. This was smelless. I couldn't smell the urine at all, either.

For bedtime I put her in the Nubunz with two inserts for more absorbency. I really had my fingers crossed on this because I have dealt with night time leaks since she turned a year old. Even the night time diapers leaked. She went down at 7:30 last night and woke up at 8:30 this morning...COMPLETELY DRY. I jumped for joy!

So far I'm really enjoying cloth diapers. Once I get the rest I will review them and tell all!


Websites:
www.Lovelypocketdiapers.com
www.Nubunz.com

Hello, from Winter Wonderland, TX!!

I'm always unsure of how correct the weathermen REALLY are when they predict winter storms around here. Usually it's nothing like they expect. Well, Weathermen, you were right on point this time! I woke up to a very white and cold scenery this morning.

Yesterday we drove to Mexia, TX  to pick up Lorie, Scot's mother. She is going to spend a few days with us (Such a blessing!)!!!! We knew that if we didn't pick her up then, it would be days before we would even think of making it out that way. We finally made it home around 9 last night and it was just starting to mist.

I try to be as prepared as possible for things; Extra pair of clothes in case of an explosive diaper, snacks in case she's hungry, extra sippy cups, etc. Well this one time I didn't stock up on groceries BEFORE the storm. I know, shameful. Luckily Lorie agreed to stay home while Marlee slept so Scot and I could get to Walmart and get some much needed food!

The ride there I was gripping my seat! The sand trucks didn't sand any of the roads around us (even though Davis BLVD is a 7 lane highway(!!) and super busy) so we were going 15 miles an hour! We grocery shopped and made our way home very safely!

After a nice lunch we decided to introduce Marlee to the snow for the third time. She was loving it! Crawling around all over, picking up partially hidden leaves and trying to eat them. We were only out there for a good five minutes because it's 19 degrees out and WINDY!!!

Oh slow down!

I would just like to say how amazed I am with my 13 month old daughter! My sadness for her never being a baby again has been replaced with awe and excitment. I swear that everyday she does or says something new!

Today I was teaching her body parts while I slathered her down with lotion. I started with elbow, she attempted but the word was nothing close! Then "Knnnnnnn-eeeee". I tried to enunciate as much as possible and she said it in the most adorable baby voice. I love that she tries to copy words and actions. (I need to really watch what I say these days!) She is an adorable little sponge!

Oh how I love winter

Every January it's time for the Live Stock Show here in Fort Worth. Ever since I remember my family and I went annually. I remember mostly the cows. I am terrified of cows for a few reasons. The first bad experience I had was right after I graduated highschool. My brother and I went to my Great Aunt Glenda's house out in Springtown, TX. They owned quite a bit of land and had TONS of cows. We all went to feed the catfish in their stock ponds and were having a pretty good time until hundreds of cows started swarming around us. I tried to keep my cool and did pretty well until Glenda said, "I think we should get into the truck". I could tell she was worried, which in turn worried the heck out of me! Of course nothing happened, but it was scary.

Fast forward a few years. My Papa, cousins Duke and Casey, and I were trying to section off a calf so we could take him to the vet. My Papa tells me to go around to the back of the trailer and makes sure all the cows go one way. Off I go on my merry way when number 20 sees me and charges...yes CHARGES...my way. I screamed and jumped into the truck. I'm positive they all got a good laugh out of it but I was scarred from then on.

When we would go to the Live Stock Show I loved seeing the cows. They're basically huge pets. I always saw the kids that owned them loving on them and cuddling them. If only that were the case with ALL cows.

My friend Emily and I took our little ones to the Live Stock Show on Sunday. I couldn't wait for Marlee to see all of the animals. The first thing we did was go to the petting zoo. There were Pygmy goats, bunnies, chickens, llamas, a calf, and a mini horse. We fed the goats and she was soooo excited. Petting all over them and squealing. I really hope that as she grows she stays excited to see and be around all types of animals and doesn't become a scaredy cat like her Mama!

Oh the sickness!

 Well our New Years plans were sideswiped by a cold. We ended up staying home instead of traveling because Pumpkin got a cold. And that little tiny cold turned into an ear infection and a sinus infection. OH JOY!

And now I have a little nugget that won't take more than a 20 minute nap because she can't breathe or her wonderful sleep is interrupted by a horrible cough. My heart aches for her. I just pray this antibiotic does it's job and my happy healthy baby returns!

Prayers are GREATLY accepted :)

 

Life with a 1 year old

It's as exciting as you think (or know) it is. She has me all over the place! It's actually kind of funny, Pumpkin is the complete opposite with her dad, or Yaya...ok anyone other than me. She's so laid back with Scot. They can snuggle in his recliner for hours and she is completely content. With me, on the otherhand, she's always on the go! Crawling around getting into every toy she owns. Maybe I have taught her to do this, because we are always on the go to doctor appointments, shopping, grocery shopping, going to someone's house. Or maybe she just knows our schedule all too well and trys to get in her playtime before her naps!

I have been extremely blessed to have been surrounded by family since Pumpkin's birthday party. My mom stayed with us for a bit, we went to Mexia for Scot's family's Christmas party on the 18th, and then Scot's dad and step-mom (Shari) and my parents were here for Christmas. They have helped so much with Pumpkin; I got a nap or two!

This weekend we are traveling to Bennington, OK to spend some time with my Papa and his fiance. I haven't been up to stay since before Pumpkin was conceived! So this is a much overdue trip. It will be my first birthday spent with him in quite a while.

I hope everyone has a fantastic New Year! Be safe!

I have a toddler...AAHHH!!

Firstly, Pumpkin's birthday party went great! She was spoiled with tons of gifts and love from our family and friends. And I must say we are blessed with amazing friends and family.

Pumpkin's party was a cupcake/zebra theme. I know that's kinda of weird mix but it turned out beautifully. I went all out, too. I made white chocolate dipped oreos with sprinkes, dipped pretzel rods with sprinkles, dipped pretzels, chocolate chip cookies, and white, chocolate, and strawberry cupcakes....that is just the sweets! There was also ham and turkey sandwiches, mini smokies in grape jelly, queso, chips and dip, and a cheese/cracker/meat tray! Needless to say by the end of the day I was beyond worn out.

                                                                

Since Pumpkin has turned one she has absolutely amazed me with how fast she is learning! She calls her monkey "Key Key", signs "more", shows me where nose is and where her ears are, drinks from a straw (!!!!), calls her daddy "DADA", calls Scot's step-mom "yaya", says "Lala" for Lolli, shows me how big she is...and I could just go on and on! I know I am biased, but she is such a smart cookie!

8 days until I have a ONE year old

The title of this blog makes me want to sob. I've said it before, but this year has flown by. We have officialy completed all of her "first holidays".

Thanksgiving Scot was off (thank the Lord!) so we went to Mexia to have Thanksgiving with his family. It was super low key, which was nice for a change. But we missed the rest of his family. Luckily we will be seeing them tomorrow when they land at DFW! We haven't seen Kent, Kristen, and the girls since Kensley's 2nd birthday party in August! Too long ago.

This Sunday is Pumpkin's birthday party. At this point I'm semi-calm. I don't think the craziness has quite set in, yet. I've pre-baked the cupcakes (and there are a TON) and I'm making her cake tonight. This will be my first attempt at making my own smash cake....Please wish me luck! I'm doing mini sandwiches, chips and dips, mini smokies in grape jelly, and tons (that isn't an exageration) of yummy deserts. I am praying this will be a success. And you better believe there will be pictures to follow! :)

Here are a few pictures since it's been a while since I've posted.

I have officially lost it

I put up the Christmas tree today. I do realize that it's only the end of the first week of November. But I can justify my actions, sort of...

Last year we were absolutely broke preparing for Pumpkin. Then while preparing she was unexpectidly here a week before Christmas. So we had no tree, no decorations. I was really upset about it. I know those things don't truly matter, it's just material things. It just so happens that I absolutely adore decorating for Christmas. I also love buying gifts for everyone. So here I am, 19 days before THANKSGIVING, decorating my house for Christmas.

I guess you could say I'm making up for last year. The tree isn't completely done, I still have to purchase a few key pieces, but I'm having a blast getting ready.

A preview of the partially done mantle:

(Sorry it's off centered!)

Happy Halloween!

This is Pumpkin's first Halloween! I know she won't remember, but I'm all about establishing traditions.

She dressed up as a kitty and we went to the "Hoot 'N Howl" carnival at the park across the street. We didn't do much because it's definitely not for 10 month olds, but we did get a picture at the picture station. Luckily the extremely nice lady behind us in line offered to take a picture of all of us so I could actually be seen!

So technically she didn't trick-or-treat this year but she doesn't need the candy anyway (and neither do Scot or I!). Next year will be soooo much more fun!

I hope you all had a fantastic and safe Halloween!

Two months away from a year

Pumpkin is now 10 months old. A lot happened while she was 9 months. She learned to clap, she learned to patty cake, she learned to crawl and pull up, and lastly she broke her two top front teeth. It felt like this past month was gone with a blink of the eyes.

I am planning her first birthday party for December 4, 2010. It is crazy to me that we're even close to the one year mark. Didn't I just give birth to this 5 pound baby girl? While I am excited to be planning her party, it really saddens me to think she will be one in less than 2 months. I get very emotional at the thought (I may or may not have been crying while typing this...) of her growing up.

I am excited to see the girl and woman she will become, but it's going too fast. I just want it to slow down a little! It makes me proud that her father and I brought such an amazing little girl into this world. That parts of us make up the best of her. I love her with all of my being!!!

Corn bread- topped salmon

About 2 years ago I bought a casserole cookbook. It wasn't big, but had 76 different recipes. I used a few of the recipes and then "lost" it. Turns out it wasn't really lost, it was just put where all of the cook books were. So upon finding this cook book I decided it was time to try out some new recipes (we're getting tired of repeat dinners!)

I decided to make this particular recipe tonight. One of the reasons is because I didn't have to defrost any meat (yes, I forgot) and two, it's so so simple.

Corn bread- topped salmon

2 cans (10-3/4 oz each) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1/4 cup milk
1 can (14-3/4 oz) salmon drained, bones and skin removed
1-1/2 cups frozen peas, thawed
1 package (8-1/2 oz) corn bread/muffin mix (I used Jiffy)
1 jar (4 oz) diced pimientos, drained
1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper
1 tsp finely chopped onion
1/2 tsp celery seed
1/4 tsp dried thyme

1. In a lg sauce pan bring the soup and milk to a boil. Add salmon and peas. Pour into a greased shallow 2-1/2 qt baking dish. Prepare corn bread batter according to package directions; stir in the remaining ingredients. Spoon over salmon mixture.

2. Bake, uncovered, at 400 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the cornbread comes out clean.

If you aren't a fan of canned salmon I'm sure that fresh would be even better!

Scot and I really enjoyed this meal. I made a salad as a side and Scot ate THREE plates! I'd say it was a success!

Friends and pumpkins

Over a year ago I joined a website called  The Bump. For those that don't know, the bump is a website for soon-to-be moms and moms. This is a wonderful website (most of the time) and I am thankful for it because I have made some life long friends. This week two friends that I met on there came to visit! Stacy and Darby flew in from Indiana, Ari and Cora flew in from Minnesota, and Whitney, her mom Kim, and Ella drove down from OKC!!

We got a group together to go to the Texas State Fair (fried food heaven!) and had such a great time.

We also went to our first annual pumpkin patch at the Flower Mound Pumpkin Village! I am so excited about starting traditions with Pumpkin, and this is our first! We had a blast doing pictures in the pumpkins with all of the babies and actually picking out all of their pumpkins.

I enjoyed having friends stay with us, but I am so happy to have an empty home again!