Christmas Coma

Sorry I haven't made too many posts on the blog lately.  I am overwhelmed/busy/emersed with all of the Christmas craziness.  If you haven't had the opportunity enter our amazon gift code giveaway it is our final giveaway for the year.  With the hectic holidays in full effect I will be taking a hiatus from the blog for a few.  I have 2 excited boys and a colicky 2 month old to take care of. No school makes my day a little intense.   I am looking forward to many new exciting opportunities in the new year.  Thank you for your support throughout the year.

My 2 Picky Boys: The Saga Continues

I swear I have the pickiest boys.  It is really a challenge to get my 3 year old to eat and he is not consistent in his food choices so I never know what he is in the mood to eat.  The second I think we've figured out a new food, he decides he doesn't like it anymore.  It is really frustrating but yogurt has always been an option for him.  My oldest is a great eater but he is very picky about what food it is and the consistency.  If he thinks something looks messy it is no good. He has a very sophisticated palate.  I don't think we helped any with our high brow restaurant food choices.  Lunch is really difficult he expects a 5 star perfect temperature meal in his lunch box.   My youngest who is 3 I have a hard time convincing him to eat meat of any kind.  He really has to be in the mood to eat meat.  Like I said high maintenance picky kids.  I have hopes that my little girl isn't such a picky eater- 3rd times a charm right?

My Ode To The Elf on the Shelf

The Elf on the Shelf, the thorn in my side

Over and over I've asked myself why

With a newborn baby my mind forgets

Where exactly should the Elf sit

I'm running out of ideas I am running out of time

He has to be moved before sunrise

Otherwise the next morning I will only hear

Why is the Elf still sitting here?

Then I must think of a sorry excuse

To why he stayed right where he was

I feel really bad that I wasn't quick enough

To find that darn Elf a new hiding spot

Out of my mouth comes he really likes it there

I really feel like I just don't care

My story fools my child or so I think

Then the questions come pouring in

Did he make it to the north pole?

I hope no one touched him

Did he tell him I was good?

Did he tell him I love him?

Everything is fine I have to explain

Santa knows you were good

(How many days is it now till I have to keep hiding this annoying elf now?)

Then after all questions are answered we go about our day

Until it is bedtime and we are all tucked away

My newborn wakes up mid evening for a feeding

Then it pops into my head that elf wasn't moved

I can't forget again I can't take all the questions

So I rush down with baby mid feeding to hide our elf

So I can go back to sleep if I don't it will nag me all night

Can't wait till I can put the elf away for the year

But I will be in this position at Christmas time again next year

I started what seemed like a fun Christmas tradition

Now I know not to make any more additions

The Pinterest ideas all seem quite clever

Who has the time to do this stuff better

Whole scenes put together

Complete with a laugh

I like to be creative but I don't have the time to craft

It will just have to be good enough that I remembered him at all

And put him in a position that he doesn't fall

Or easily touched by my 3 year old boy

So the magic doesn't fade and my boys get a toy

Stocking Giveaway #2

This giveaway is for a Stocking for a boy Rudolph themed with a Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer stocking that has music.  This prize is valued at $45

a Rafflecopter giveaway ***This giveaway is not affiliated or sponsored by any of the items included in this giveaway.  The winner has one week to claim their prize and all actions will be verified.  This contest is open to US residents only.  

Things to Keep Younger Child Busy on School Days

Having one child in elementary school and a little preschooler at home it has been a different experience.  I love that I have special time with my 3 year old and his personality is really coming out lately.  I know he misses his big brother like crazy while he is at school.  When we go to pick him up he is so excited to see him and always has a toy that he brings to give to him at pick up line if he doesn't fall asleep first.  We have been trying to keep activities going for my youngest to take part in with a playgroup but with this pregnancy it has become increasingly harder to do too much activity.  To tell the honest truth I would be happy to just sit around and hang out but he needs the stimulation so I make the effort.

Splash Pads
Parks
Indoor Playareas
Art Project
Cooking with mom
I also belong to a playgroup which can help break the monotony of day to day. Plus it is a big positive for me to have that adult conversation as well.

Update with 3:

I am lucky if I can get basic needs taken care of yet alone keeping my 3 year old entertained.  Needless to say, we have been enjoying lots more tv than we normally would.  A lot of my day is deciding whose needs are more pressing.  I am going to ease my way back into playdates now.  (6 weeks) So we will see how that goes.  Fortunately, it will be just 2 kiddos with my oldest in school.

A Little Girl

I can't even explain how excited our family is about our little baby girl we are expecting in October.  She is an active, healthy little gal and we are ready for her to be out and a part of our family.  Having 2 boys I know that the experience of having a girl is going to be completely different.  When I think about all of the different things a girl goes through it is a little daunting.  All of the emotions in being a girl and all of the feelings I am sure it is going to be different having a little girl than a little boy.  It will also be super nice to have someone of the same gender in the family of boys.  I am looking forward to all of the girly experience that are available to do.  Princess dresses, dress up, tea parties, dolls, etc so excited.  I think it will also be fun to experience all the girly experience with the boys too.

As I was pacing around the other day trying to calm down my little girl,  I started thinking.  When I was a little girl, the only doll available was a little girl doll.  You wouldn't find a little boy baby doll.  As children I think we are programed to be little mommies to a little girl.  Just makes you think....

One Month Old

I can't believe that it has been a month since my little girl arrived in the world.  I am not going to sugar coat it this month has been pretty rough.  All the attention needed with a new baby and my boys adjusting to mom not being as available as before.  We had a rough start with a Nicu stay and near the end of this month she caught a cold from her big brother.  Complete with coughing, sneezing, and congestion.  We have also seen the appearance of something I am not all surprised about but was hoping to avoid...Colic.  There are a few hours at nighttime when she can't be consoled non stop crying.  It is enough to drive anyone a little crazy.  I always feel so helpless when she is crying, everything I do doesn't seem to help.  Looking forward to the colic making a quick exit.  But unfortunately things don't work out that way.   Thankful and feeling proud that we survived the craziness thus far.

Stocking Giveaway #1

We are giving away a girl themed Frosty the Snowman stocking that has music with push area.  There are Frozen items, Hello Kitty, and little fun stocking stuffers. This prize is valued at $40.  

a Rafflecopter giveaway
*This giveaway is not sponsored or affiliated by any of the items in the stocking.  This giveaway is open to US residents only.  Winner has one week to claim their prize and winners actions will be verified. 

December Amazon Giveaway

Enter to win a $25 Amazon Gift code.  This is a monthly giveaway that we do and we are happy to do it.  Thank you for your participation and Good Luck!!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
**This giveaway is not sponsored or affiliated with Amazon.  Winner has one week to claim their prize with a valid email address.  Winner's actions will be verified.  This giveaway is open to US residents only.

November Winner

A winner has been chosen for our November giveaway.  Congratulations to















Lisa B!!!  Please email me to claim your prize.

Holiday Season

The holiday season is upon us and I feel so guilty.  After being quarantined in the house since October 27, I am stir crazy and my kids are going crazy.  I feel bad because the normal me would be filling our calendar with lots of fun things to do to celebration the season.  So far we have done barely anything and my oldest boy who had 1 week away from school spent most of his time inside.  The mommy guilt is huge.  I know that it isn't such a big deal to them but it feels horrible to me like I have let them down a bit.  The elf hasn't even had the energy to show up at our house this year.  I just don't have the time to make sure that "Elfie" has a hiding place at night.  My mind is mush and I can barely remember anything so the elf would be a huge holiday fail.  Our tree isn't even up yet and I am a Christmas girl through and through.  The tree normally makes an appearance by now.  Hopefully this mama can get it together soon.  I know regardless of how I am feeling that the things I am feeling guilt for don't make the holiday.   So I decided to try my best to not give myself grief about what I can't do and just enjoy what I am able to accomplish.

Adding Another Child to the Mix

I have 2 boys at home and I am a little tentative about adding another child to our family.  The delicate balance that we have had taken quite some time to achieve but it is already in motion.  We have another baby on the way.  I know it is going to take some time to integrate her into our boy laden family but after some time I am confident that we will find our groove again.  I am not as worried about our 7 year old's transition, he is pretty independent.  I am more worried about our 3 year old's transition.  He is truly a mama's boy and has a hard time in general being away from me.  I am hopeful that everything will go smoothly.  He had a difficult time with speech so I am hoping that it not delayed or effected in the process.  Things are really getting serious now as the time goes on.

Here is my after the baby is home update:  After some initial attachment from my boys who I was away from at the hospital for 5 days.  We are adjusting into somewhat of a schedule.  When my 3 year old met his new baby sister he was excited.  Until he exclaimed, "She is eating mommy."  "Put her back in the seat."  But now he is okay with having her around as long as he sits next to me during feeding and is able to cuddle and hug.  My oldest, who is 7, is very excited to have a baby sister.  After asking for a good year for one and praying every night he finally feels he got what he wanted and he couldn't be happier.  He wants to constantly hug and kiss her and be near her.  When he is picked up from school he says I have to get home to my baby sister.  So cute.  To help matters my little girl is such a good baby.  I can't get over how much different she is from the boys.  My boys were always so unhappy.  I couldn't put them down they would scream.  She lets me put her down and normally only cries when hungry, gassy, or changing diapers or clothes.

My Magical Adventure

Crayon Crunch through Kickstarter recently delivered some personalized books for my boys.  I backed their project to receive these books and my boys were excited to receive them.  They are a personalized story with an adventure to find a key with lots of different scenes throughout the course of the book.  You can not only personalize the name in the book but you can also personalize the character within the book to look like your child.  There are many attributes to choose from and they even have options for special needs children personalization as well.  At the end of the book there is also a personalized note that you can write to your child.  The illustrations in the book are colorful and attention getting for my boys.  The book also has a lesson that your child will be presented with through the adventure in the book.   Both of my boys were very happy to see the character that looked like them and then to see their name throughout the book was so exciting for them.

If you are interested in getting one of these adorable books for your little one, go to http://www.crayoncrunch.com to order one.  Would make a great holiday gift for the upcoming holiday.

***This post is completely my opinion of this product.  An additional book with support of the Kickstarter was received.  Other than that no additional compensation was received.  

Potty Training my 3 year olds saga

My 3 year old has decided that he wants to try to go potty at the most inconvenient times of day.  This would not be an issue if he actually peed or pooed in the potty.  Normally he has already gone in his diaper but is motivated to try by getting a piece of candy.  So my desperate boy sits on the potty and tries to squeeze out some pee to get a piece of candy.  He pushes so hard to get something out and gets so frustrated when nothing comes out.  He says to me Candy?  and I reply did you go potty? Him: No No Candy???  Heartbreaking.  My oldest was hard to potty train as well he wasn't potty trained until he was 4 so I think we might possibly be on that road with my boy as well.  Hopefully we will be able to find the magic thing that clicks with him. My oldest we tried a lot but when we finally found the special motivator it did the trick.

Update:
After a couple of days, if I keep on top of him he will use the potty.  If I wasn't all consumed with the care of my newborn he would be further along.  Mommy guilt....  He is really close though.  So glad we are making progress.  Candy for my boy apparently is him motivator.  He definitely has a sweet tooth.

The Isolation Post Baby

In the first few months of having a new baby I always feel isolated and lonely.  Especially since you are bound to the house with little to no human contact.  Those crazy post birth hormones don't help the situation either.  I have only been home for a few days after being in the hospital for 5 days with my little one but knock on wood, I am feeling pretty good.  It helps that I have a baby that is pretty easy going.  My boys were both very demanding babies.  It is a little odd to have such a content baby so thankful though.  I haven't really felt too isolated as late but we are just over a week in so time will tell.  My husband who is normally asleep during the day has altered his schedule to help out which has been nice.  My mom has been around to help as well.  Fortunately though I have been able to handle a lot of things on my own.  It makes me feel good to know that I can handle it better than I thought I could.  I am definitely looking forward to my healing so I can feel like a person again.  The demands from my boys at times seem more than my newborn baby girl.  I have been feeling a little stir crazy to get out and about.  But my girl is not a fan of her car seat and screams hysterically when riding in the car so that alone has deterred any thoughts of leaving the house too often.  We do get out the house twice a day to drop off and pick up my 1st grader.  It definitely takes a lot more work to get 3 kids going in the morning and ready.  We have some what of a system down.  Looking forward to getting out and about soon.

November Giveaway

We are giving away a $25 Amazon Gift Code to one lucky follower of Learning to Pee with the Door Open.
  a Rafflecopter giveaway

***This giveaway is not sponsored or affiliated with Amazon.  Winner has one week to claim their prize and winner's actions will be verified.  You must email peeingwithdooropenmommies@gmail.com to claim your prize with a valid email address.

Week 1 Down

I strangely feel like I survived some kind of war.  My baby girl was delivered on October 23rd at 5:42 am and it was my longest labor to date.  They decided to induce me with Cerphadil twice to get labor going.  After an exhausting round initially with little progress I was feeling pretty defeated.  The second go was much more aggressive and not friendly at all.  But fortunately I did not have to go the full 12 hours on the second round because 6 hours in I was in full labor.  At 5 cm I got my epidural which I can't say I was totally ready for but I knew I needed to get it.  We had the main epidural guy administer it by request of us because with my last pregnancy I had a student administer and it went horribly wrong.  I had a huge crash with my 2nd pregnancy and things were a little touch and go.  After the epidural was taken care of 30 minutes later it was time to push.  But surprise, surprise as many of my fellow moms have experienced the doctor was nowhere in the vicinity.  So my baby girl was still in her water sac awaiting her delivery and I was constantly informed not to push.  When the doctor finally arrived and popped my water it exploded it on her which was actually really funny.  Then one contraction and push and out she came.  Everything was great and due to having gestational diabetes they had to test her sugar for 12 hours.  Unfortunately this turned into a 5 day stay in NICU to get her sugar levels evened out.  Sugar test prick upon sugar test prick my poor little girl had to endure.  Meanwhile, my boys were at home with Grandma and not dealing well with my husband and I not being around.  Finally we were able to get everything under control with our baby girl and return home to our boys having a hard time with adjusting to a new baby in the house.

I am very lucky my baby girl is a really excellent baby and sleeps really well especially when compared to my crazy sleepless boys.  She is pretty content as long as she is fed and needs are taken care of.  Many of her crying fits are brought on by changing of clothes or diapers.  So happy to be home and have her as part of our family.  My oldest is excited she is here but is really understanding what it really means to have a baby sister.  My 3 year old is not excited at all and even commented with horror at breastfeeding that the baby was eating mommy and to put her back.  Hopefully with time and getting on a schedule of some kind it will make things more manageable.

Taking a Break

Wanted to give everyone an update.  We had our little girl October 23rd at 5:42 am.  We are so happy and thankful she is here.  After 5 days in the nicu we were able to bring her home yesterday afternoon  October 27th.  Thank you all for your good wishes and congratulations.  I am going to be taking a brief hiatus from the blog to heal and get some rest.

October Amazon Winner

Thank you everyone for your entries and participation in our recent giveaway for an Amazon Gift Code.  Our October winner has been randomly selected by Rafflecopter.  Congratulations to.......








Summer B.  Please contact me at peeingwithdooropenmommies@gmail to claim your prize.

Potty Training

My youngest is in no way ready to be potty trained.  He is happy to wear diapers 24/7 and has no qualms with a dirty diaper.  So it looks like I am in for another stubborn go at potty training.  I also have not been pushing the subject too hard because we are expecting our newborn very soon.  So for some encouragement I want to share a post I put up when my oldest was potty trained so I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Finally after all this time and for the last month…..my boy  is potty trained!!! I am so happy and relieved. It was a long frustrating road. Just wanted to fill anyone who is curious on some potty training things that finally helped him seal the deal. At first I tried stickers on a chart, candy, and small trinkets as encouragements. These things were effective for occasional potty visits but were not long lasting. What worked for my boy was if he was on any kind of electronic device and peed or pooped in his pants that item was taken away. I also explained to him when we were out and he wanted a toy or a big surprise that he can’t have these things until he used the potty for pee or poo. The two things in combination worked awesome and finally things started to click. I know every child is different but I wanted to share what worked for us. Believe me, I understand how frustrating and defeating it can be. Also, how you feel like your child might be graduating high school in diapers but it will happen. This also a little encouragement reminder for me when it is time to potty train my youngest  in the future. Future me: He will potty train hang in there!!!

Freezer Meals Preparation

I have been in that special mode of preparation in my pregnancy.  Knowing I am going to exhausted with a new baby and 2 boys at home I went on a freezer meals rampage.  I have a very picky crew of boys at home and my husband has dietary restrictions so it makes the preparation a serious challenge.  Many of the things I mainly tried to think of the kids and I for meals.  My mom is also going to be at my house to help me out so I know she will enjoy the meals I have prepared with me.  I am not a measurer unless I am doing a recipe.

Stuffed Shells
I actually used a recipe on the box for this one the recipe called for marscapone cheese as well as ricotta looking forward to enjoying these.
Just used small loaf pans to store and freeze.

Vegetable Lasagna (this one is mainly for me)
I used eggplant squash, and mushrooms as my filling
Mini loaf pans made this a great easily portioned meal.

Chicken and Yellow Rice (Gluten Free)
I always try to find one without msg or colorings
-Chicken breast chopped and sautéed
-Peas and carrots (sliced)
-Make yellow rice with package directions and I add a cup of additional water with the cooked chicken and veggies.
I used little loaf pans and portioned it out into servings.  Then press and seal with aluminum foil.

Chicken Pesto Calzones
https://newleafwellness.biz/2012/07/02/freezer-ready-part-two/


Chicken Noodle Soup
-Sauteed chicken
-Egg noodles
-Carrots sliced
-Chicken broth
Cook all together.
I then took large freezer zip locks and separated them into servings and put them in the freezer.


Many recipes and ideas I found online with a freezer meals search.

I always with a sharpie label the food and cooking directions along with a date that I prepared it.  Things tend to get lost in the abyss of a freezer.

Girls Toys Giveaway Winner

Thank you everyone for your excitement and participation in this giveaway.  Rafflecopter randomly selected a winner and you have one week to claim your prize.  Please claim asap by emailing me at peeingwithdooropenmommies@gmail.com

Congratulations to Laurie N.

When You Have a Colicky Baby

Colic sucks....it is a horrible thing.  Both of my boys had colic and I am fully expecting my little girl to have an issue with it too.  Many times I have paced the house with a screaming child feeling completely helpless and even crying myself.  I guess I just have some really gassy babies and it is enough to make even the most put together person a little crazy.  My boys didn't settle out until about 6 months which made for quite a long duration of colic and it didn't completely disappear until about 10 months.  My husband and I as babies were both colicky so I am pretty screwed.  I have tried the over the counter remedies to no avail.  Hopefully, third time is a charm and I will find that magic solution to any colic problems that arrive.

I have found some new things to try this go around:
Happi Tummi

I will review this product in detail after I have a chance to try this for our upcoming colic experiences.

Colic Calm

This will also get a full review to it's effectiveness.  

***This post is not sponsored by any of the products listed on this blog post.  No compensation was received by me in exchange for their inclusion in this post.  All opinions all completely my own.

List of Must Haves for Your New Baby

Having 2 children and fastly approaching a 3rd I have discovered some items that you absolutely are going to need for your little one and what items you aren't even going to use

Bedroom

-Crib

-Rocker

-Changing Table

-Basinet (I always have had one but sadly did not use it)  I normally wind up co sleeping but I know for many this is a necessity

Bathtime

-Towels and washcloths

-Bathtub

-Safe baby wash

Daily Needs

-Bouncer this is a life saver when you need to put your little one down.

-Highchair but you won't need this till about 4 months

-Pack and Play we had one and never use it but if you have other children or animals it is a great safe place to put your little one down.  

-Swing for my colicky baby this item was also a life safer

Feeding
-Great natural bottles if you formula feed.  I saw a great machine at the store the other day that is a dispenser with warm water and formula which if I had to formula feed I would totally invest in.

-If you are nursing a breast pump I have had a Medula pump in the past but for my last child and this one I have an Ameda pump.  It is great especially using it this second time because I was able to easily replace all the tubing and use it again.

-Storage Bags for breast milk Label the date pumped and how much.
-A boppy pillow mine is used constantly it just makes feeding easier.

***Remember You never know what your child is going to be comfortable with so be prepared for either feeding method.  Best laid plans sometimes despite how hard you try don't alway work out the way you want it to.

This is not in anyway a complete list of your needs for your baby but an overview of some key items that I have found I needed for my babies.  

Sea World Spooktacular

Sea World has a great water themed event for the month of October during the weekends.  Sea World Spooktacular is included in your admission and for fun costumes are encouraged.  There is a special Trick or Treat path with several opportunities for candy.

 Throughout the path there are also games, halloween themed food, and costumed themed friends.  At the Bayside Stadium, Penelope's Party Zone, has a big activity area and dance party area.  There is a special Sesame Street show that is a must have for the holiday your Sesame Street lover will love the chance to see their favorite character onstage.

 Insider tip when you leave the theater on your right hand side get in line to meet a Sesame Street character or two.  My boys have a great time Trick or Treating and all of the fun activities that there are.

If you have the opportunity and a Sea World annual pass don't miss out on this one of a kind, fun, family-friendly event for you and your family.

***This post is not affiliated or sponsored by Sea World.  No compensation was received in exchange for this review. All opinions in this post are completely my own.

Tastykakes Minis Review

Being originally from New Jersey there are a few things that we love our hoagies, panzarotis, and Tastycakes.  For quite some time the only way to get Tastycakes was to live up north but for the last couple of years they have expanded their reach.  I have been seeing varieties of their yummy desserts in lots of different stores although no where near the choices available up north but still they exist.  We were sent a package of Tastycakes Minis to try out for ourselves and we got a Reese's peanut butter package...YUM!!!  My kids couldn't get enough of these mini cupcakes, they come 3 in a package and they are tiny bite size cupcakes.  The peanut butter is super rich and yummy and went perfectly with the chocolate cupcake it was paired with.  They made great small snacks and to pack for my oldest's lunch.  The box has a zip opening and then the box stands up for easy storage.

***This post is not sponsored or affiliated with Tastykake.  I was sent a box of Tastykake Minis to try from Inflluneser.  No additional compensation was included in exchange for my honest review.

The Reality of 20 days till my Baby Girl Arrives

I am in shock mode as it has set in that in 20 days or less if she has other plans my little girl is going to be born and we are going to go from a family of 4 to a family of 5.  I have been busy I guess in nesting mode putting together anything that needs to be put together and prepared for her.  Laundry loads upon laundry loads and organizing to the best of my ability.  I have this crazy constant feeling that I have forgotten something...I am not sure what.  I think part of the reason I feel this way is I have been pretty lax about getting things together for her arrival.  I guess when you are on number 3 it doesn't feel as pressing to be super prepared.  Realizing no matter what there is no way to be completely prepared.  I also have an extreme desire to go places during the day knowing full well l am soon to be a prisoner in my own home going stir crazy.  The not driving after giving birth is probably a good thing due to the lack of sleep and delirium that ensues it would not be safe for anyone to have a just labored mama driving on the road.  I am trying desperately to not be too overwhelmed by the reality of nursing that will soon be a part of my everyday routine.  Hopefully my boys will settle into a routine quicker than I think they will.  With the Halloween holiday upon us as well I feel like I have to get in some Halloween events to celebrate before I have the baby which probably isn't my most clever idea.  I have to realize this and cut myself a break.

October Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

Enter to win in our October giveaway for a $25 Amazon Gift Code.  This is your chance to win a Rafflecopter run giveaway for an Amazon Gift Code towards anything on Amazon.




a Rafflecopter giveaway

***This giveaway is not sponsored or affiliated with Amazon.  Winner has one week to claim their prize and winner's actions will be verified.  

The Guilt of a New Baby

I don't know about you but when I am pregnant with a new baby I have a little bit of mommy guilt.  Both of my boys when they are younger are definitely mommy's boys very attached.  When I had my 2nd child my only child had a little of a difficult transition.  It is really hard to fully prepare the older sibling for what having a new baby entails.  My boy was fully potty trained and excited to meet his new baby brother but after a few days he realized what having a new baby in the house truly meant.  To him it meant mommy had less time for him and he wasn't getting the attention he was used to.  So he stopped using the potty and reverted back to peeing and pooping in his pants.  This back step went on for a good month until he was ready to get back into his big boy routine.  As time went by things got a little easier and mommy was able to make sure he had lots of time with mommy and the new baby.  Now approaching my 3rd pregnancy I once again have a very attached boy who I am almost sure is going to have a difficult time with a new baby.  I don't sugar coat my pregnancies or experiences and I don't have the baby brain that you totally forget what the experience was like. I am walking into this fully aware.  So I am feeling some mommy guilt because I know he is going to have a challenging couple of weeks.  I am not as worried about my oldest since he is pretty independent.  But I tell you what having 2 is a strange comfort to me because they have each other to play with and keep each other busy.

Surviving Your 1st Day Home

The 1st day home is always a little overwhelming.  New baby, unsure of things, worries about their safety, and above all sleep deprived as all get out.  A lot of times family wants to come over and meet your new baby and it can be exhausting.  My advice if there is family there to get them to take care of the baby for an hour while you go shower or take a short nap.  They can always come to get you if it becomes too hard to handle or to feed but if anyone asks how they can help this is an excellent request.  Everyone says nap when the baby naps but it just never worked for me unless I was completely zonked and I was normally holding the baby and just passed out then and there for a nap.  I am not a great napper I typically feel worse after I have a nap but even so a little rest helps you push through the delirium at night.  I wouldn't be obsessed with a schedule especially the first day things are so hectic.  A schedule can be developed in the following days and despite your best efforts your little one more than likely has ideas of their own.  Try not to put too much pressure on yourself sometimes our ideas of either how we should feel or what we should accomplish is overwhelming.  You will get into a groove but putting too much pressure on yourself does not help those pesky hormones.

Pregnant Mess

In my last few weeks of pregnancy, I am feeling like a disorganized mess.  I am normally a mom that is pretty on top of things.  But I find myself rushing around in the mornings to get my oldest off to school.  There just never seems to be enough time.  This is probably partly due to my difficulty in getting going in the morning.  Even if I sleep through the night it doesn't feel like enough.  That is probably due to the constant tossing and turning through the night. And the the night time bathroom breaks. Fortunately, my boys are both sleeping through the night which is one less thing to worry about.  I am moving slower as well more like a snails pace.  Everything seems like it is harder and takes longer to do.  My belly has become more uncomfortable and I have been experiencing lots of back pain lately.  Fun.  A few more weeks and I will be lacking sleep for a completely different reason.  I am sure I am getting more sleep now than I will then.  Looking forward to have her on the outside though.  It is a little bittersweet this is going to be our last baby and therefore my last time being pregnant.  So thankful for all the opportunities I have had to carry my babies from start to finish.

Packing Your Hospital Labor Bag

As a mom who is going to deliver for a 3rd time in a hospital I feel that I have some personal experience in packing a labor bag.  I have looked at countless suggestions lists for packing for the hospital, some things are necessary-some just aren't.


For Baby
-Don't worry about diapers the hospital will have lots of diapers.
-Since I breastfeed I always bring my breast feeding pillow it starts the feeding out as close to the conditions at home and it will make for a seamless transition to nursing at home
-Bring lots of outfits babies poop a lot and normally in my experience it is a blow out so make sure you have plenty of changes of clothes (My favorite outfits are footed zip up onesies they are so easy in the beginning and warm for your little one)
-If you plan to have any pictures done bring a cute outfit or two for the photos.  My mom always crochets a beautiful blanket that is the center piece for our pictures.
-The baby book it is so much easier after you have your baby to let the staff take care of the handprints and footprints.  You are going to have a lot going on and it is one less thing to worry about
-Newborn mittens or socks Your little one is going to have zero control over their hands and will probably end up scratching their face with those newborn talons.
-Car seat you gotta have it to get your little one home.  If at all possible install the base before you get to the hospital so you are ready to go when it is time.  When it was time to go I didn't want to spend another minute at the hospital.


For You
-I have great intentions of reading a book or coloring something non stressful to distract me and every time I bring them they are never used.  It isn't going to stop me from packing it this time though you never know.  Music if this helps you with stress.
-The hospital will provide some oh so stylish underwear and pillow sized pads.  Even though they seem a little odd I use them.  But I always bring some underwear that I don't care if they get ruined.
-Shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, soap for your shower.  I remember being pretty weak in the shower so my washing time was subpar but it is nice to have the chance to wash off.
-A comfy nightgown that you don't mind if it get ruined in the hospital.
-If you wear contacts bring your glasses you never know if your eyes are going to be irritated with labor or any medicines you need to have
-I could care less about shaving my legs at the hospital I personally think you get a free pass after labor but some ladies have to shave so don't forget all your shaving items.
-Lip balm Your lips get really dry and chapped partly due to the sterile environment in the hospital
-A maternity outfit to go home in unfortunately you are still going to have to wear some of your pregnancy clothes in spite of all the delivery you just experienced.
-A charger for your phone/laptop whatever electronic you are planning on bringing.

For your Partner
A lot of partners don't think about packing but you might have to take the reigns on this
-Some changes of clothes for your partner with toiletries
-Snacks
-Try to remember to bring their chargers for their electronics.  They won't forget the electronics the chargers are a different story

Aurorae Aqua Review

Aurorae Aqua is a high quality towel that is durable and long lasting.  It has great absorbency and it is really big at 32"x 68".  We had the opportunity this past weekend to try out this towel for ourselves at the beach.  It is a soft and plush towel and it would easily work as a towel blanket on the beach for 2.   The color towel is a beautiful blue (Carribbean Blue) and it was really absorbent.  It folded down really well even though it is a big towel it didn't take up a lot of room in my beach bag.  This towel is made by a company that mainly has yoga products and this is their entry into a sport and swim towel.  Another thing that really impressed me about this towel is that it dried much quicker than the 2 other towels we brought to the beach.  They were still soaking when we arrived home from our time out but the Aurorae Aqua towel was dry which was pretty unbelievable.  

If you are interested in trying one of these towels for yourself you can go to their website at www.auroraeyoga.com  It is on sale right now for $24.99 which is well worth this great beach towel.


***This product was sent to me in exchange for a review from Aurorae Yoga.  No other compensation was exchanged for this review.  The opinions in this review are completely my own.

Girls Toys Giveaway

We are doing a girls toys giveaway for 2 great toys for your little princess to celebrate my little ones impending arrival very soon!!!!

Up for grabs is a Doodle Bear made by Fisher Price.  It comes with Marigold the bear and 2 2 sided markers.  You let your little one decorate and then you can wash the bear and they can do it again.

We also have a Fisher Price Smart Stages Tea Set.  Which is an interactive learning set that teaches colors, manners, sharing, and greetings.

This prize pack is valued at $50.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

***This prize package is not sponsored or affiliated with Fisher Price.  The winner of this prize has one week to claim their prize. Winner entries will be verified.  US residents only.

September Winner

Thank you everyone for participating in our monthly giveaway for September.  A winner for the Amazon Gift Code has been randomly chosen by rafflecopter and the winner is....
























Debbie F.  Congratulations!!!  Email me to claim your prize.

Rebounderz Birthday

First off, Rebounderz is basically a jumping environment filled with lots of trampolines.  My boy who agreed to have his birthday here went to a party here before and had lots of fun so he is excited to have his birthday here.  They are pretty strict with their parties.  You rent a room for your party and you have basically 2 hours in your room.  Upon entering the facility you have to fill out a waiver.  Then all of your party guest have 70 minutes to enjoy the gym once the 70 minutes are up which starts at the beginning of the party that is it- No extra time.  Then you go into your party room for pizza and cake.  The basic party includes pizza and water anything else has to be purchased in addition to the party package.  They do not allow any outside food or drinks.  You can bring your own cake.  Then after the food every kid gets a $1 to spend at the arcade area and that is it.  I can appreciate a short aggressive party schedule but it may be a challenge for younger children to understand time is up.

Chuck E Cheese Birthday

For my just turned 3 year old we did the classic right of passage for a birthday celebration.  He requested a Chuck E Cheese party which this year I was totally on board with.  Especially in my tired, exhausted, pregnant state.  I have been to a lot of Chuck E Cheese parties in my day.  I even had one myself when I was younger.  One thing is true now that was true then they really know how to organize and provide a really fun party.  All of the kids have a great time at the party and the great thing about Chuck E Cheese is if you have cancellations they don't charge you for them which is great.  Even their pizza has improved it is actually not bad.  The kiddos have such a good time playing games and every child walks away with some kind of prize the way they structure their prizes.  If you are looking for an easy party where you don't have as much prep work to do this could be the solution for your needs.  I also don't know many kids that would turn down some fun at Chuck E Cheese.

Grammy's Indoor Playground

There is a great indoor playground not far from us especially for your younger child.  It is located off of Aloma and my 3 year old loves it when we go there.  It is a gated play area with several stations throughout the play space.  There are houses to play in, train table, garden, indoor play set, and even a section just for the youngest kiddos with tummy time areas.  There is also a nursing area with quiet and seating.  Everyday they have a story time which is included in your price to enter.  At story time they do a few songs and a couple of books.  It is a really relaxing environment and they even have Yuck buckets to put any toys that your little one put in their mouth.  They also have an area in the back where you can eat snack or even lunch.  There is also a fridge if needed.

Their prices are

Infants 0-3 free

4 months-11 months $6+tax

1 year-5 years $10+tax

Don't forget your socks not just for your little one but for you too.

Adventure Bible: Noah's Voyage Review

My boy has been doing a lot of reading lately and he helped me with the review of this book.  It was an easy to read for a level 2 can read with help.  The story kept my boy interested and there were a lot of illustrations that brought the story to life.  It told the story very simply and easy to understand.  Happy to have a book that brings a bible story to life for my little one.  My boy especially was blown away by the age of Noah in print.  It was pretty detail oriented for a kids book but not in an uninteresting way.  If you are interested in buying this book for your little one it is available at Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/Noahs-Voyage-Read-Adventure-Bible/dp/0310746833/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1441985221&sr=1-1&keywords=noah%27s+voyage

***This book was provided to me for free from Booklook Bloggers in exchange for a review.  No additional compensation was received in exchange for my honest review.

First Early Release Wednesday: Mom Fail

Let me start by saying I am well aware that Wednesdays are early release day at school.  The first Wednesday of the school year last year they skipped early release and started the 2nd week and there were other instances of Wednesdays being full days throughout the year.  The school system is crazy about sending out automated messages with reminders or information.  I received a call on Tuesday night about Car Line Rules and no mention was made of an early release day the following day.  The first early release day they had signs up to remind everyone.  So I figured if it is an early release day surely there would be signs up.  On Wednesday morning there were no signs and no reminders.  The thought crossed my mind to call the school but I didn't I was busy.  Then came the call at 2:30 that my son was in the office waiting to be picked up and it is an early release day.  I quickly rushed to the school and the office was full of kids that hadn't been picked up.  A reminder would have been nice but I felt horrible that I didn't follow through to find out for sure.  I have been forgiven by my boy with a promise to always come early on Wednesday.  I won't miss another Wednesday again buddy.

Thomas Minis: The Obssession

Walmart carries some pretty exclusive Thomas trains that you can't buy at any other store.  My boy is obsessed with the Thomas minis.

They have blind bags, packages of, and a roundhouse case.

For my boy he loved opening the blind bags because he enjoys the excitement of the surprise.  Otherwise, he is happy to have minis.  The minis are exactly what they sound like mini versions of Thomas and Friends characters.  They are plastic and hook together.  There are also different themed trains like dinosaur, robots, super hero, and spooky.  It seems the amount is pretty endless and it is pretty challenging getting all of the mini's as a complete collection.  They are relatively inexpensive the blind bags are 1.50 and they have many different varieties of the packaged minis.  The case is $15 and it holds 17 trains and my boy discovered mini tracks on the inside plastic case and on the back of the case.

***This post is not sponsored or affiliated with Thomas or Walmart and the opinions and review is completely my own.