A small appology.

I'm sorry we've all been a tid bit absent around here.  All of us have had A LOT going on. 

This week I've gone half way across the country with my little family to celebrate my sons first Christmas.  It didn't go exactly as planned.  DH's grandfather fell and broke his hip and had surgery, my little one has been ridiculously fussy, and there is snow, a lot of snow, yuck.  However; we got to spend a ton of time with family and introduce our baby to my husbands family. It's been a lot of laughs and giggles, baby hugs, big people hugs, good food and fantastic company.

Pictures will follow later.

Until next time,

Lady Hurricane

Christmas letters n' such.

Do you ever just sit and stare at a page and wonder what to do with it?  I've been in this situation before, earlier this last week actually.  I was sitting, staring at the computer screen with a blank new page in front of me and I was supposed to fill it with a reflection on the year that has flown by.

How many of you actually read all of the unpersonalized Christmas/holiday letters that you receive folded up neatly inside a card with a scribbled signature and a picture of a happy family?  I read most of them.  If I don't actually read it all the way through, I at least skim it for keywords.

It's always nice to write out a little "brag" letter, but I often wonder how much of my silly sense of humor, that I squeeze in each year, goes unread.

This year I went out month by month and posted silly things that happened this year to hopefully catch someones eye, and included a nice little family photo.

Do you send out cards/letters each year?  It's always nice to get a little bit of cheer in the mailbox.

Until next time,

Lady Hurricane

Slow times...

Welcome back to The Naptime Bloggers!

I'm sorry things have slowed down a bit around here.  We're all very busy with the upcoming holidays!  We hope all is well with you and your family and that you have safe holiday travels and a great time with you and yours.

We are still looking for more guest bloggers, our wait-list has cleared up, and we would love to hear from our readers!  A guest blog can be about anything really, a product review, a funny story about your family, a heartfelt story about adoption, a great recipe that your family loves, a different point of view on discipline, co-sleeping, breastfeeding, you name it.

Sit tight and hopefully you'll be seeing more of us in the New Year!

Until next time,

Lady Hurricane.


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Too Busy?

It’s no secret that we are all busy. I don’t care if you are the stay at home parent of an only child or the CEO of a Fortune 500 company with quadruplets at home. You are busy.

Here’s my current situation. I am a stay home mommy, full time student, and wife. During this last week I had 4 finals to study for, a 5 page paper to write, and a very important interview to prepare for. I felt like I had a million things to accomplish! And it all had to be accomplished while being super mom and Susie Home-Maker.

 

There were 10 loads of laundry to be folded (This is NOT an exaggeration). My sinks were overflowing with pots and pans. My youngest has refused to leave her diaper on, which results in the occasional pile of poop that I will find around the house. Oh, and we thought getting a puppy would be the perfect addition to our craziness!

 

While sitting in my recliner, trying with everything I had in me to get my material read and get notes studied, I found myself getting after the girls over and over (and over and over and over and over) again. My day was filled with tension and resentment. And to top it all off, it was an uncharacteristically GORGEOUS day for the beginning of December. We are talking 60 degrees! You know what that does to kids!!

 

In a final attempt to capture some attention from mommy, my youngest climbed on my lap and straddled me, looking me square in the eyes. As I began to scold her and let her know all that mommy had to do, she leaned forward and hugged me. She laid her beautiful blond head on my chest and just stayed there.

 

It hit me. HARD. What was I doing?! These sweet and innocent little girls just wanted to play with mommy. They just wanted to share their infinite supply of joy and energy with their struggling mother. I wasn’t getting anything accomplished anyway.

 

I put it all away. The books. The notes. The computer. The interview application.

 

I gathered up our jackets and boots, and we headed out to the backyard. It was a muddy mess, but the sun felt like a rush of sanity washing over my heart and mind. The girls ran and laughed and played. The dogs explored and romped around in the mud. It was glorious.

 

In all of my haste, I forgot that they are babies. I forgot that they needed me. I forgot that I don’t have to get it all done NOW. I forgot that we must take advantage of today’s beauty, because it will fade with setting sun.

 

What I learned that day was to SLOW DOWN. Enjoy these sweet moments. I don’t get after my girls for crawling up on my lap anymore. I simply hug them back. As long as they want to. I take breaks. I focus on the big picture.

 

No matter how busy you are today or what you have planned for tomorrow, don’t forget to laugh and love. Children are masters of reminding us what is important; sometimes we just need to shut up and listen to them. No matter what this day, week, month, or year has in store for you, don’t forget to slow down and enjoy what is right in front of you.

 

A Quick And Powerful Snack Blend For Those On The Go Moments

Nuts are a huge part of my family's diet.  We love to snack on them or incorporate them into our main meals.  While they are a favorite in our home, I know that there are a lot of people out there who cannot enjoy the health benefits of them due to allergies.  But I want to draw attention to an alternative that can be used as a replacement in trail mixes, peanut butter, etc. and not only is this food item packed with amazing health benefits and nutrients, they are also SO much cheaper than nuts!    
That's right, I'm talking about seeds!  I first learned about how you could switch out nuts for seeds a few years ago when I was a nanny for a family of three boys.  The youngest had a severe nut allergy and so I learned how to be extremely cautious when feeding the boys and reading every single label out there so (A) would be safe and still be able to enjoy delicious food.  Yes, it is still absolutely possible to eat great and healthy when you have allergies to certain foods.  You just have to learn how to read the labels carefully, know the terms, and not be afraid to ask questions!

Here’s a simple snack idea for those of you moms, dads, and other “I need something quick and healthy to feed myself and kids RIGHT NOW” type of people because let’s face it, we have all been there at one point in time! This blend of seeds is one that I recently began throwing together and storing in jars or snack size ziploc baggies.  I keep baggies in my purse, one in my son’s backpack, in our snack drawers (which I’ll write about in a later post), in the car, just about anywhere that grants easy access to something quick and nutritious so my family can choose something such as that over fast food when we’re hungry.  

In the photo above:

Greek Yogurt, Pepitas (pumpkin seeds), Golden Flaxseed, Sunflower Seeds, and Mini Chocolate Chips.

Here’s the breakdown:

Look for raw, unsalted versions of these seeds and ones without oils added to them.

Pepitas (pumpkin seeds): Vitamin K, B, and E as well as: Copper, Zinc (immune support), Protein, Iron, Magnesium (for your heart), Manganese, Plant Based Omega-3 Fats, and Phosphorous. There have also been studies that show that pumpkin seeds can aid in lowering LDL cholesterol, promote sleep, help with depression, and are good for prostate health among other things!

Raw Sunflower Seeds (shelled):  Vitamin E, Potassium, Protein, Magnesium, and healthy fats, but beware of eating too many at a time because they are high in calories, so moderation is key!

Golden Flaxseed:  These may be tiny, but they pack a mighty punch because of the lignans (may protect against certain types of cancer), Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Fiber, and Protein that they contain.  

Mini Chocolate Chips:  Okay, so there are really no great benefits at all, but I have a major sweet tooth and these little guys are just the burst of sweetness that I need and taste so perfect with this blend of seeds!  If you want to choose a healthier version and still get your “chocolate fix” then replace them with cacao nibs!

Greek Yogurt:  To be honest I don’t like the taste of 0% Greek Yogurt.  I remember the first time I bought Fage and my 18 month old (at the time) son and I tried it.  Haha I wish I could have captured our faces in a photo because my son’s was hilarious and not impressed.  I’m pretty sure mine looked the exact same way as his did :).  Even though it’s a million times better than regular yogurt, it’s just way too sour for me.  So I add in raw honey to help sweeten it up a bit and add in some walnuts or this blend of seeds and voila.  A simple healthier treat/dessert!

While the Greek Yogurt I have pictured isn’t the best (choose Fage when you can) it is still far better than brands such as Yoplait and Dannon.  The reason that the Greek Yogurt I have pictured here isn’t the best is because it has pectin in it.  But regardless, for the most part I love Greek Gods yogurt and when my supermarket is out of Fage, as mine was, I generally grab this brand because I prefer the taste.  When choosing a yogurt, as with every other food item you purchase, read the labels!  This container contains:  Pasteurized Grade A Milk, Cream, Pectin, and Active Cultures (S. Thermophilus, L. Bulgaricus, L. Acidopholus, Bifidobacteriu, and L. Casei).  

*** I am in no way an expert or dietician.  This comes from research, personal knowledge and experience as a previous nanny, babysitter, daycare worker and supervisor.  I’m now a mom who tries her hardest to feed herself and her family food that will benefit them in a positive way.  

***  Seeds can be an awesome replacement, but I do strongly encourage you to make sure that you are not allergic to them before ingesting them, especially if you are allergic to nuts as some times both can set off reactions.

What is one of your favorite on the go snacks?

xoxo

Lady Sunshine

What I've learned from my miscarriage

Again with the heavy topics, I know.  I promise I'll lighten up next Monday... If I don't I owe you all a dollar (Please don't take me up on that, I can't afford it with the nearly 1,000 views we get each week haha). However, I really will try to write about a light hearted subject, I feel like I might be the downer of the group right now.  Back to the topic...

What did having a miscarriage teach me about myself? A lot, but here is the gist.

1. I wasn't ready to be a mother yet.  Don't get me wrong, I WANTED more than anything to be a mother to my child, but losing our baby showed me many of my flaws.  
1. I'm not patient...at all. I stop the microwave before the last second (don't worry I clear the second off),  I go to the post office at 10:30 every morning because that is the deadline for when the mail is supposed to be in my box, I don't even like waiting for the Xbox to start up let alone the oven to get up to temp. Not only did I have to wait for us to try and conceive again, I had to wait to be emotionally prepared and then wait 9 months to have our son. 
2. I'm selfish. I wasn't taking care of myself the way I should have been before conception.  After losing our baby I began exercising daily, eating better, etc. I want to be around for our children for a long time, and the way my life was going, I wouldn't have been. I would have rather get my sleep, go out to movies, go to dinner, and do things on our own schedule. I wasn't ready for something or someone to interrupt the way our plans were made. 
2. I am stronger than I ever imagined I could be.  I had to be.  I couldn't let this cripple me.  I still needed to work, I still needed to be there for my husband who was also hurting, and I still needed to go on with my life.  I couldn't just crumble.

What did having a miscarriage teach me about the world?

1. The obvious, life is fragile. It is.  It can be there one moment and taken away from you the next, quicker than anyone could ever imagine. 
2. There are some amazing people out there.  Several of which, I am proud to call my friends and family. 
3. I have a fantastic support system.  The days after my miscarriage I had an outpouring of messages and phone calls of people telling me they loved me and that they were their if I needed them.  I had flowers brought to me by friends. I had friends that just sat there and listened, and cried, and hugged. 
4. I am not alone, and neither are you.  Previously mentioned support system also included friends and family who also lost a little one and shared their stories with me.  Also the resources I listed on last Monday's blog.   
5. Everything happens for a reason.  This was the hardest thing for me to reason with, especially now that we have our son.  Without having our miscarriage, I wouldn't have our son.  Our baby was due at the end of August, on baby's due date I was 10 weeks pregnant. 

I hope you walk away from this post learning a little bit more about yourself or even just understanding your friend or spouse and being able to be there for them.  Remember, no matter the gestation of your baby, they are just that...your baby.  Take time to grieve, give yourself space.  Sit back and evaluate the situation that your in and do what is best for you.  Take care of yourself.

Until next time,

Lady Hurricane.

Guest Blog: A Fairytale Beginning

Welcome back to The Naptime Bloggers!  We're so very happy to have you hear!  Lately, at least in my life (Lady Hurricane), a lot of people around me have been adopting.  This next story really captured my attention.  Not only because the mom has a way of pulling in people with her words, but also because of the incredible strength and amazing bond the family has.  I follow Lisa's blog about her family's adventures HERE, often and I hope you will go check out what she has to say too!

Lisa Sorenson is the author of The Far Side of Complexity, a blog that chronicles her family’s daily adventures in the great northwest. An advocate for children with disabilities, a large part of her writing focuses on the trials and triumphs associated with caring for her own handicapped daughter. When not tending to her children, Lisa performs with the Mid-Columbia Symphony and teaches private music lessons. She also enjoys traveling, reading, and listening to Beethoven’s 7th Symphony.

Enjoy.

 

One of the most common motifs in literature and cinema alike is that of rags to riches; stories that tell of a person rising from poverty to wealth. Indeed, those were the stories that captured my attention throughout my childhood years. Favorites included Cinderella, The Prince and the Pauper, and My Fair Lady (to name a few). Oh, and let's not forget Becky the scullery maid in A Little Princess. One of my absolute favorite literary moments is when she leaves her life of poverty and becomes a 'little princess' herself.

Those stories always resonated with me, though I am not quite sure why. As a child I wanted for nothing and had every opportunity afforded me. Yet I sill pondered what it would be like to experience such a dramatic change of fortune - or better yet - to be the cause of that change in the life of someone else.

So when my husband approached me with the idea of adopting I didn't give it a second thought. I responded with an immediate and absolute, "Yes!"

And that is where our adoption journey began.

Many were surprised when they heard we were adding to our family. We already had three biological daughters, the youngest of which was born with severe brain damage. As a result, she is what I like to call a forever-baby. She doesn't walk, talk, or even eat. Feeding tubes, shunts, and seizures are common topics of conversation in our house. To many, it appeared our plate was full. But what most don't realize is that while our life is a little different, it is also our normal.

So despite the shock and questions from onlookers, we started researching, knowing that somewhere out there was a child who belonged with us. It was such an interesting thought, to know that on some continent, in some country, was one child who was all alone, waiting. So I searched and searched until one day I saw this picture:

Her smile captivated me. And her eyes - so full of life and excitement, despite the unfavorable circumstance she was in. I knew immediately she was the one.

***

Three weeks ago we traveled to Ethiopia where Elsa, age 6, joined our family. We arrived at the orphanage with a new outfit to dress her in - including some silver sparkle shoes reminiscent of Cinderella's glass slippers. She literally left her 'rags' behind and came to the States to find a bedroom fit for a princess awaiting her. But rags to riches it isn't about monetary wealth. At least not in this case. For Elsa it means a home; it means safety; it means opportunities to develop talents; it means having a family to call her own.

When I look at Elsa, I see something special - a spark, a light, limitless potential. I see a child who was born into dire circumstances, but regardless, chose to smile. She has a fighting spirit and the courage to face the world with confidence. I have rarely seen such strength and strong sense-of-self in a person. As I think towards the future I am excited to see what it holds for my Ethiopian princess. Who will she become? What will she achieve? Something great awaits her, I just know it. Indeed, this fairy tale is going to end with a happily ever after.

 *** 

I really hope you enjoyed Lisa's guest blog today, and that you go check out her blog as well to follow more of her story!

Until next time!

-The Naptime Bloggers

Presents versus Presence

     I want you to think hard about the holidays of your childhood. What do you remember most? Do you remember baking special holiday treats with your mom or grandma? Do you remember going to see a display of Christmas lights? What about traditions that your family ALWAYS did that you loved? Now I want you to think about the gifts you received. How many can you remember? Okay fine, I definitely remember my N64 (and yes I still have it) and my Power Wheels Corvette, but aside from that, I've got nothin. Let that sink in for a minute....go ahead....I'll wait....
 
     Okay now...get it? Good. I want you to realize how stressful it is when you are running around frantically Black Friday shopping or last minute gift wrapping..or maybe about preparing for all that company. Do your kids enjoy you when you're stressed? Mine certainly don't.
   
     One last question...how often did they play with last year's expensive gifts? If your kids are anything like mine, they played with them for MAYBE a week before they were lost in the pile that is the toy box. They would get dumped out when company came over of course as you know kids are prone to doing this AWESOME thing where they check to see every single toy the other child has, but were they worth it? Not really.

     What has this holiday become? It used to be about so much more than retail, but I don't want to get preachy. I could rant all day about how materialistic we are now and how insane it is to trample people in a sale to get junk that will likely not even really be appreciated, but I won't.

     So what do we do to make sure our kids have something more worthwhile... I know there was a blog earlier about community service and that was a GREAT idea, but aside from that...do a holiday craft, even if it comes out sloppy. Bake some Christmas tree brownies together. Take them to see a light show. Start some traditions and make them memorable! (you can still do a lot of shopping if you have a preteen who loves to shop with you! :P)

     Here's what I did with my kids today...we made ornaments out of foam balls and sequins. They LOVED IT.

Yesterday, they helped me put together my Christmas village. (my grandmother had me help with hers every year and it was my favorite so I started my own) There's a brilliant local light display that I've been to every December since I was 10, and I'll be taking them to that. If I'm being honest I don't like holidays, but only because of what they have BECOME. Let's create traditions and memories with our kids that will make these holidays meaningful..otherwise, what's the point? :)

-Lady Luck

Miscarriages and Blessings

Today's post might be a sensitive subject for some... So here is your **Trigger alert**

December 15th, 2011 I was waiting nervously for 3 minutes to pass as my pregnancy test was processing.  Negative.  I wasn't sure weather or not to be excited or relieved.  You see, my husband and I had just decided the previous month that we would begin trying to start a family and after being at WalMart near the rotisserie chicken and almost throwing up, then about 3 isles away from the candles and having the smell be too strong, I figured I should take a test.  I didn't believe that it could be negative, the smell of chicken and candles never bothered me before, I thought I must have been getting sick.  About 30 minutes later I went and pulled the stick out of the bathroom trash just to be sure, and it said it was positive.  I quickly grabbed another test and in about 30 seconds it said it was positive.  I was elated.  I couldn't decide if I wanted to tell DH right away or if I wanted to wait and make it a sort of Christmas surprise.  I'm terrible with secrets, I told him.  We both hugged for a very long time and cried tears of joy.  We were able to wait a whole 2 days before we had announced it to the family that we were expecting, and another week before we announced it to the world via Facebook. 
You see, I had never heard of the 3month/12 weeks rule...The doctors test estimated we were about 3 weeks and 4 days when we found out we were expecting, and everyone had known at about 4 weeks.  We had our first appointment on January 12th where we were told everything looked good, and that we would have our first ultrasound on February 15th.
We never did make it to the February 15th appointment.  On February 3rd I wasn't feeling well and had began spotting.  I called the doctor, and he said it was normal, but if there was anymore blood we should call again.  We were watching some music award show that evening when I was having the worst pains I've ever had, and had been in and out of the bathroom.  We called again and the doctor, without any sort of remorse or "I'm sorry"  in his voice said words that hit me right in the heart. "Well, you're having a miscarriage and there isn't anything we can do about it.  You can either go through it at home or go to the E.R. and wait it out there."  I decided to stay at home.  I knew that if it was going to happen, I would want to be home with my husband, not hooked up to machines and poked and prodded by strangers in the E.R..

***Graphic/Trigger Warning***

I was laying on my bed in the "child's" position while my husband rubbed my back trying to help me get through the cramps of labor, when I needed to go back to the bathroom.  I had just finished and was about to leave when I felt the need to go again, I sat back down and felt a big "flush"... I just knew, that I had lost it.  I looked down into the toilet, and there was the most fragile little 12 week 3 day baby.  I didn't know what to do, I collapsed on the floor screaming and crying, my husband frantically ran into the bathroom.  He held me, we cried and he called my mom because he too wasn't sure what to do.  Then the doctor called to see how we were doing and we told him that we had lost the baby, and he told us what we needed to do.  My husband asked what I wanted him to do, and words that I now wish I could've taken back came out of my mouth "flush the toilet".... Three words that I don't know how to forgive myself for.  Three words that would change my life forever.  My sweet little Peanut.  My sweet little Peanut that was too beautiful for Earth was gone. People have asked what I would have done had I not flushed, and I don't know the answer to that question, I don't know how things would have been different, but I do know that, that little baby will always have a place in my heart, and a piece of me.

**Okay, it's safe again***

The blessing behind all of this?  We discovered the "problem".  My blood type is O Negative, and my husbands isn't.  When your partner doesn't have ONeg and you do, your body will see the other blood type (your babies blood type) as an intruder, an infection if you will, and will attack.  However, with modern science you can get shot of Rhogam so that your body won't do that.  Which is how our second baby survived my hostile body, and was born as a healthy 8lb 10oz baby boy this past March. 

Did you know that 1 in 4 women have a very similar experience?  1 in 4 women experience miscarriage or pregnancy loss.  1 in 4 women suffer from this same heartbreak.

Here are a list of resources I've accumulated that I would love to share with you.
Calvin's Hats Facebook
Calvin's Hats Website
Miscarriage and Pregnancy Loss Support  on Cafe Mom

Footprints On Our Hearts on Facebook

 Here is my hat from Calvin's Hats:

On Baby Peanuts due date we released balloons with notes:

I also adopted some baby chicks and watched them grow up:

 

I took up painting too:

I know that it is a hard time, and that nothing I say can make it better, however, knowing I wasn't alone helped me more than I ever thought that it would, and I hope that it helps you too.

Lots of hugs,
Lady Hurricane

Guest Blog: Hands and Feet to Zambia

Welcome back to The Naptime Bloggers!  It's Sunday again, and we have another great guest blog for you!

Enjoy!

April Muller currently lives in eastern Washington but grew up in southern California, she still loves the beach and warm weather but now she gets to enjoy four seasons. She is a wife of 11 years and a stay at home mom of 3 beautiful boys. She loves all children and has a special place in her heart for "the least of these" around the world. She is excited to live this out and get her hands a little dirty as she goes to an orphanage and show the children there that they are deeply loved. 

I grew up with parents who love to travel. And they always took me and my two sisters with them. It was much cheaper then and my mom ended up working for an airline which made travel even more affordable. We traveled to Australia, Greece and England all on separate trips. I've also had the privilege of visiting and working at a couple orphanages in Mexico. There was one little a girl I came to adore. I would have taken her home with me if I wasn't a single college student living in a dorm room. But it was from this that I've been given a broad world view. Politics change from country to country but people are pretty much the same. We all have the same needs for food, shelter and love.
I also grew up in a compassionate home. I remember as a young girl sending money to World Vision to help a child who was less fortunate. I also grew up in church and loved listening to missionaries tell about their trips abroad, Africa included.
I've always wanted to go to Africa. I'm sure as a young child I was drawn by the animals of the safari. But when I think of Africa its not the animals that come to mind or the beautiful landscape, its the poverty, the lack of medical care and the orphans. We are not all called to adopt but we are all called to care for orphans. I have several friends who have adopted a child or are in the process of adopting. I have been trying to support them as its a long and financially stressful journey.
One friend is in Zambia now. They require a 3 month fostering period before an adoption can be finalized. Just before she left she was agonizing over the long journey and asked for people to come.
That's when I instinctively said "I'd love to!" and immediately reality set in and said "there's no way!" I am a stay at home mom of three busy boys and the wife of an engineer and master's degree student. How could they live without me?? It was a great opportunity to support my friend and care for the children at the orphanage where she is staying. So I asked my husband anway, certain of his response. And to my surprise, he answered with a "yes", as long as I can come up with the money to go. I must be dreaming.

The very next day we had "Orphan Sunday". The Bible tells us several times to care for orphans. It felt like confirmation to go. Since then, I've been soul searching. I didn't seek out this trip. It was offered to me. Was that enough reason to go? Probably.
Being a mom to my boys is everything to me. I want to be a positive example to them. I want to teach them to love everyone and especially to care for the less fortunate, not just the ones in our neighborhood but around the world. We are all God's children. We all have value. I'm excited to go to Zambia and explain to my kids why I am going. And instead of telling them to love people, showing them.

As I think about the orphans, I think about how little human contact they receive. Even the most amazing care givers cannot replace the time and attention a mom can give. Many infants and toddlers remain in a crib for most of the day where they are fed and changed.

My youngest, age 3, was recently diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder. He was born with a cleft palate so he has always been a little bit different. The diagnoses he has received since only explain what we were already seeing. SPD is a neurological disorder. It affects the way a person translates what their senses receive. It is different for every child. For him, one of his sensory issues is that he needs extra sensory input to know where his body is. It's called proprioceptive disorder. If he can't see his body parts he doesn't know where they are unless he has extra sensory input. For instance, for his second birthday we bought him a toddler slide. It was months before he could just go up the ladder by himself! It also affects muscle coordination. The next hurdle for the slide was to get his body on top of the slide with his feet facing forward.He also loves to hug. This is where he gets lots of sensory input. He doesn't just hug his family members and people he knows. He hugs just about everyone he sees. One day recently we were at a local hospital. He hugged a nurse. It's awkward when he hugs strangers but sometimes, most of the time, it's well received. This was one of those times. The nurse appreciated the hug. In an attempt to lighten the awkwardness I offered that we could all use more hugs, to which she agreed. It got me thinking that my sweet boy has a gift. And he gladly gives it to anyone willing to receive it, the gift of touch, the gift of human contact.This is one of those basic human needs and one that every orphan needs more of. With this revelation, I am thrilled to go to Zambia and hug every child I see. I plan to help out at the orphanage wherever there is need but my personal priority is to hold as many babies as I can and give them for that moment the human contact they so desperately need.

You can visit April's fundraiser page here:

 Fundraiser page. 

 And you can bid on auction items, to help her raise funds to Zambia here as well:
Facebook Page

As always, we look forward to seeing you around this week, and we would love to hear from you!  Feel free to contact us via comments, facebook, twitter, pinterest, or e-mail!

Stay At Home Parents

 I love that this dad defends SAH parents!  Check out this Yahoo article!

 The “mommy wars” just became the “daddy wars”—or a spirited battle, at least, led, perhaps unwittingly, by a Kentucky father of 5-month-old twins. Matt Walsh, a blogger and WLAP radio personality and defender of stay-at-home moms everywhere, has blogged on the topic this week, inspired by what he calls the “subversively condescending” questions he frequently gets from working moms about his wife’s child-rearing status. And the piece has been causing a major dust-up on social media, much to his surprise.

“I thought (hoped) the post would resonate with my readers, but I never expected the response to be anything quite like this,” Walsh tells Yahoo Shine through a Facebook message exchange. “Naive as I am, I also didn't anticipate the vitriolic negative reactions. This has turned out to be the most divisive thing I've ever written, and I never intended for that to be the case. I wrote it because I wanted to defend the beauty of motherhood, not start a war.”
The piece, “You’re a stay-at-home mom? What do you DO all day?” has been viewed more than 2 million times in just two days. In it, he writes, “This conversation shouldn’t be necessary. I shouldn’t need to explain why it’s insane for anyone — particularly other women — to have such contempt and hostility for ‘stay at home’ mothers. Are we really so shallow? Are we really so confused?” He goes on to call the life of raising kids “beautiful and complicated and challenging and terrifying and painful and joyous and essential,” and notes that no other role in life can compare.
“It’s true—being a mom isn’t a ‘job.’ A job is something you do for part of the day and then stop doing,” he writes. “Whatever your job is—you are expendable. You are a number. You are a calculation. You are a servant. You can be replaced, and you will be replaced eventually. Am I being harsh? No, I’m being someone who has a job. I’m being real. If your mother quit her role as mother, entire lives would be turned upside down; society would suffer greatly.”

He continues, “Yes, she is just a mother. Which is sort of like looking at the sky and saying, The blogger and his family. Photo courtesy “hey, it’s just the sun.”

The blogger and his family. Photo courtesy Alissa Walsh. The piece particularly meant a lot to the writer’s wife, Alissa, who tells Yahoo Shine that she was “really proud of him, and encouraged” after reading his post. “He is the type of person who doesn’t let people attack his family or his beliefs. But he didn’t realize how big a controversy it is, and how divided women are on the issue,” she says. “He posted it before I could warn him! But I know he would have written it anyway.”
Walsh’s piece has been shared nearly 2,000 times on Facebook, where it’s generated thousands of likes and comments that have been sharply divided. A great many have applauded Walsh for his viewpoint, sharing their own stories of happy child rearing or regretful working hours, and thanking him for being a supportive male voice in the din.
“Most stay at home moms have dealt with (on top of all else) their own husbands not appreciating what they do,” writes one Facebook fan. “This is what everyone who has had that experience hoped her man would do.”
But many others have taken issue with the piece—for offending working moms, mainly, but also for wading into a discussion that they believe should be left to women. Critics include writer Leslie Morgan Steiner, editor of the 2007 essay collection "Mommy Wars," who says that Walsh should stay out of this one.
"This is all we moms need—dads criticizing us too!" she tells Yahoo Shine in an email. "My conclusion from 'Mommy Wars' is that we are all better off when we champion moms in whatever decision they make. Really, it's none of Matt Walsh's business what other moms think.  I am not even sure it is his business what his own wife thinks—that's HER business. We all, as individuals and as a society, need to butt out of moms' personal decisions about how to raise their kids."
“I guess the extreme reaction on both sides reveals how hurt and damaged a lot of us are by the scorn and ridicule from the outside world,” Walsh tells Shine. “I think most of us parents are just trying to love our kids and provide for them as best we can, and we should all be respected for it.”
So what’s at the root of these often-vitriolic mommy discussions? Parenting coach and therapist Tammy Gold tells Yahoo Shine that it’s a complex set of emotions.
“Sometimes mothers immediately assume that the grass is always greener—and then they feel it’s kind of unfair, and they project their insecurity onto the other person,” says Gold, co-founder of the newly launched MommyCoach, who notes that mothers, by nature, are insecure. “Judgment comes, a lot of times, from secret frustration, like maybe the working mom feels guilty that she’s not staying home. And when one feels bad, sadly, sometimes the only way to feel good is to bring another person down.”
But Walsh’s blog, she adds, is a bright and affirming note in the discussion. “I think this blog will really open up the conversation,” she says. “And maybe especially for dads, who might say, ‘Look how far out he went to defend his wife. Let me remind myself that she’s not home eating bonbons all day. She’s working hard.’” 

Be sure to check back tomorrow for a special Guest Blog!

Superwoman

Why is it when people give us a compliment we usually have a really hard time accepting it? This is one I have noticed recently. I have told a couple of parents lately that they were Super Wo(man), and they each replied something to the affect of, "I don't really feel like it, but thanks." A few days later someone gave me the same compliment, and I responded with the similar disbelief of my own awesomeness.

Why do we do that? Well, probably because we AREN'T Super Wo(man), and we know that.

We make a lot of mistakes as parents. Las week I had to apologize to my daughter because I made her stand in the corner for something her little sister did. My heart broke as I tried to explain to the sobbing toddler that I had made a mistake. She looked up at me with tear stained cheeks, touched my face and said, "No biggie, Mommy. I wuv you so much."

She knew I was doing my best.

We don't always stick to those rules for parenting we made at 7 months pregnant. Did any of you do this one: "I swear to NEVER feed my child fast food!" You know what my kids ate on Saturday for lunch? Chicken Nuggets and French Fries. We had pizza for breakfast that day. We had ice cream that night. As I sat in bed that night I felt so guilty about the lack of fruits and veggies that had entered my childrens' growing bodies, but

I knew I was doing my best.

You can read hundreds of articles online about how to react to your children without yelling. You can say this, or you can have them do that. Here's the reality: Sometimes we yell. I have a meter. My meter ranges from "My child can do no wrong" to "You better watch out because mommy is on her 6th cup of coffee and is a raging lunatic." When the needle approaches the latter, after a day of cleaning up animal and child accidents, picking rice out of the carpet, falling on my butt on the ice, spilling coffee on my white blouse, burning dinner, and remembering I have a paper due the next day, the chances of mommy losing it are much higher, but

I know I am doing my best.

Naptimes are a really great time to get stuff done! You can do all of the pesky chores that are next to impossible to do when little hands are constantly trying to "help." Yep. That's ideal. You know what else? I'm really tired. I have a puppy, a 3 year old, and an 18 month old who wake me up an average of 4 times a night. When my kids take naps, I don't always rush around getting the house spotless. Sometimes I sleep, too. My husband must hate coming home for lunch and seeing the rest of the family in bed, but

He knows I am doing my best.

I have friends and family members who remember EVERY birthday and anniversary. They will always send a card a couple of days early to make sure the special someone recieves their well-wishes on time. I tried to do that once. I had a calendar and I tried to collect all of the important dates. I lost the calendar. And I didn't have any cards to send. And I didn't have time to write sweet little notes. And we didn't have any stamps. No one gets cards from me. Not for their birthday. Not for their anniversary. Not for Christmas. Sorry.

I am doing my best.

Those are just a FEW of the reasons that we don't take that compliment easily. Because we aren't Super Men or Women. We fall short. We always will. We won't get everything done every day. Some days are GREAT! Some days are really hard. BUT THAT IS OK!!

Because you are doing your very best. I have yet to meet a parent who said, "Ya, I'm just half-assing this whole parenting thing. I really like to put my energy into cleaning the house." If you are a parent, you are trying your darndest!

So the next time someone tells you that you are Super Wo(man), say THANK YOU!! Knowing full well that you aren't! And chances are, they know that you aren't! They know some days suck horribly, but they ALSO know that you keep on going. You keep doing your best, and THAT, my friends, is what makes you SUPER!!

Do not call my daughter pretty...

     In our current society, we've gotten this obsession with kids' self esteem. I call it an obsession because we have completely overdone it. We have been consumed by it. This started before the current generation of young children who get a participation award for everything they do. Even my generation has a sense of entitlement and an over inflated ego. Now, don't get me wrong...children DO need high opinions of themselves. They DO need praise and they DO need confidence, however, they need it for the right things.
    DD is 5 and just a doll. She really is. She's got Shirley Temple spiral curls, deep blue eyes, full pouty lips, pinchable cheeks, and freckles. She's seriously adorable and everyone who meets her WON'T STOP TELLING HER. This didn't used to bother me until I realized something...she started coming up to me all the time and asking if I thought she looked pretty...if her dress was beautiful...if she could wear makeup. (NO!) She started being overly concerned with how she looked, something NO five year old should ever be concerned with. This was the very same child who once wore an air freshener around her neck claiming she just wanted to because she liked it. I tried to warn her that other kids might laugh, but she didn't care what anyone thought. Now all of the sudden she wants to make sure she has EVERYONE'S approval everywhere she goes. What went wrong here? My poor kid wasn't told enough that she was clever, funny, and creative. She wasn't praised by others on her skills in the game of Memory or her ability to sing or dance. Other people didn't tell her they loved her art work. My family didn't tell her how thoughtful she was when she would pick them flowers or offer her brother half of a treat she got at school.
     These children are learning to value the wrong things. They are learning that participating is enough and that being aesthetically pleasing is their main value. My daughter thinks that all people know and even EXPECT of her is to be beautiful. How many teenage girls do you know that think they are NOTHING if they aren't pretty? I refuse to have my children learn the wrong values. My daughter is pretty, but do not tell her. She has years ahead of her to hear it. She needs to hear that she has value even if no one could see her. <3

Thanksgiving Dishes And Traditions

Thanksgiving is such a fun time of year!  It’s a time to reflect on the good in your life and truly be thankful for every opportunity and blessing that was sent your way.  It’s also a time of fellowship with family and friends who you may have unfortunately not had the chance to see very often, but now get to spend a whole day with just enjoying one another’s company in good conversation and amazing food.  Aw, the food… juicy turkey oozing in all of its tenderness, bowls overflowing with stuffing, bright and tangy cranberry sauce, fluffy mashed potatoes, and dense pumpkin pie with the perfect flaky crust and a dollop of creamy whip cream to top it all off.

I am drooling sitting here thinking about it.  Two more days, just two more till I get to indulge in all of the sweet and savory dishes that I, a very hungry pregnant woman, am now seeing dancing around in my head.  For the past seven years I have cooked up huge feasts for this special day that result in weeks worth of leftovers.  I always over do it, I know I do, but a small part of me tries to replicate the amazing dishes that my Grandma, Aunt E, and Aunt A used to make every year.  They would create this eloborate spread of food that looked like it was straight from the pages of Martha Stewart Living and while I may have not appreciated it as much growing up, now as an adult who lives halfway across the country from them, I crave that food and the memories that are associated along with it.

So as a mom I wanted to instill some things into my son’s memory bank so he can look back enjoying the memories as well as looking ahead to be excited about our own family traditions.  One of those traditions is for my son to join me in the kitchen making all of the delicious food.  He’s been helping me since the day he could crawl, by first handing me pots and pans from the lower cabinets to graduating on to removing the giblets from the turkey and helping inspire the menu every year.  It’s a time that we both enjoy, just bonding, and working together to create something that we’re both proud of.

         But sadly, this year we will have to forgo on the mother/son bonding time in the kitchen because we will be going to a buffet instead.  I’m completely hanging my head in shame as I admit this to you because I want nothing more than to cook a feast fit for a king.  I’m passionate about cooking and about our little family traditions.  However, due to my quite large belly getting in the way and then adding a dash of pregnancy clumsiness I just don’t see how it would be possible to pull it off this year.  I know some people would jump for joy at the opportunity to put their feet up, sit back, and enjoy, but not me.  Ha!  I’m actually going to miss all of it… especially the part where my son joins me in our little bonding time!  So this week since I cannot whip up a delicious meal I thought that I would share some of my family’s favorite dishes that I have made in the past and hope that they will be as enjoyable for you as they have been for us.

The World’s Best Turkey   

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/the-worlds-best-turkey/

Cranberry Sauce  

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/cranberry-sauce-i/

Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes 

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/make-ahead-mashed-potatoes-2/

Creamed Garden Potatoes and Peas 

http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/creamed-garden-potatoes-and-peas

Marshmallow Rolls  

http://www.cooks.com/recipe/so3zp65q/marshmallow-crescent-rolls.html

Brown Butter Coconut Mashed Sweet Potatoes

http://www.familyfreshcooking.com/2011/11/16/brown-butter-coconut-mashed-sweet-potatoes-recipe/

Caramel Apple Cheesecake 

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/caramel-apple-cheesecake-recipe/index.html

Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes with Gingersnap Crusts

http://satisfymysweettooth.com/mini-pumpkin-cheesecakes-with-gingersnap-crusts/

Pumpkin Coconut Fudge (Dairy-Free)

http://thecoconutmama.com/2012/10/pumpkin-fudge-dairy-free/

Ingredients

• 2 Cup Coconut Butter
• 1 1/2 Cup Pumpkin Puree
• 2/3 Cup Pure Maple Syrup or Raw Honey
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• extra cinnamon for dusting (optional)

*  Warm coconut butter in a medium size saucepan over low heat until melted. Turn off heat and add the remaining ingredients. Mix until all ingredients are combined. Pour into an 8×8 inch square pan. Refrigerate fudge for 2-3 hours or until it has set. Cut into squares and serve.

I made this a few weeks ago and will definitely be using this recipe in the future for every day use as well as for holidays because oh my goodness it is beyond DELICIOUS! Our family loved it so much that I had to actually wrap up each individual piece in saran wrap and then store it in a freezer bag for portion control.

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving and are able to enjoy time with your family, friends and just make the most out of this special holiday.

What are some of your favorite Thanksgiving Day dishes and traditions?

xoxo

Lady Sunshine