This is Me...p2

Around the World:
*What major world events have happened in your lifetime? So so many, the world has been rapidly changing over the past 30 years.
*Has it affected who you are now?
*Who was the President when you were born?  Who is it now?
*What natural disasters have you been in?


Politics: 
*Are you involved in politics?  How so?
*Are you a specific political party?
*How do you choose who to vote for?
*Are you happy with the Government?
*What would you change if you could?


Nature:
*Where is your favorite place to go to get away from it all?
*What outdoor activities do you like to participate in?
*What are some of your favorite outdoor memories?


Traveling:
*Where in the world have you been?
*Where was your favorite vacation?  (As a child, as a teenager, as an adult, etc.)
*Where would your dream vacation be?
*How do you like to travel? 


Miscellaneous:
*What is the most daring thing you've done?
*What is the stupidest thing you've done?
*What is your most embarrassing moment? (Or moments.)
*What choices in life would you like to have a redo on?
*What is your general attitude toward life?


Personality:
*What kind of personality do you have?  (Shy, outgoing, calm, stressed, etc.)
*How has your personality changed over the years?  What made it change?
*How well do you associate with others?
*What makes you nervous/happy/angry/surprised/scared/etc?


Hobbies:
*What are your current hobbies?
*What hobbies have you had in the past?
*How often do you get to do your hobbies?
*What hobbies do you wish you could start?


Death:
*What would you like to do before you die?  (Bucket list)
*What are your beliefs about death?
*Are you scared to die?
*How would you like to go?
*What are your final wishes?
*What are your wishes for your funeral and burial?
*What would you like people to say about you when you're gone?

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Homeschooling for the Lazy mom...

If you think I homeschool these children by complete free will and choice... You are way off.

If you think I lack formal education, or am unable to complete a dissertation... I can show you the door

If you think I am creating mindless, poor-adjusted, brain-washed, socially inept Zombie spawn.... You clearly haven't step foot in a classroom in twenty to thirty years, let alone my home during "learnin' hours'.

...And If you think I am homeschooling my house because its easy, or I am lazy, I just might kick you in the face.


Deciding to home-school my children was not easy. AT ALL. It was not a quick decision. We (my husband and I) battled over it for years. We incorporated preschool activity programs, we enrolled in cooperative activities, we researched schools of all sorts, HECK, we even enrolled AND he attended formal, traditional education for a complete year. It just wasn't for him, at that time.
I want my son in school, I want him in the best school we can find, one that suits his every need, but does not cater to him exclusively. I want him out of my house.
But,
I want whats best for him, more...
And if that means sacrificing my career goals, listening to public mockery over our schooling choices, standing up for our freedom of religious choice and flat out telling people to mind their own business while tripping over the periodic table of elements AND children in my living room, then I will.

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This is Me Challenge (p 1)

Your birth and family: 
*What is your full name and how did you get that name?  Do you have any nicknames? Jamie Lee, I was named after my grandfather and the Van Halen song "Jamie's Cryin' " I am without a single nickname that sticks, but have a great number of names that friends and family have called me, however each person seems to have their own name for me.
*What are your parent's full names and birth dates and places? Martin & Barbara were both born in Waterbury, CT
*What is the date of your birth?  Where were you born?  What are some of the circumstances (when your mom went in to labor, how long, her doctor, your dad fainting, etc.) of your birth? I was born the 16th of January, in Waterbury, and from what I was told my birth was uneventful, but fairly quick.
*What are your sibling's full names and birth dates?I have 1 sister, Jennifer Lynn, she is 11 months younger.
*How was your relationship with your siblings and parents? I have an interesting relationship with my parents and sister, and they do not have a relationship with each other... I am the go-between.
*What are some lessons you learned from you parents? Work smarter not harder, and you cant take it ($) with you.
*How did you help in your home? I assisted whenever my mother asked, taking on a lot of responsibilities at a young age.

 
Growing up, early years:
*Where did you grow up?  Describe it. In Connecticut, in a small neighborhood filled with mostly boys, I was a Tom-Boy and fit right in. We came home when the lights came on and made noise and climbed trees and hiked in the woods until they did.
*What was your earliest memory? I do not have many memories of my childhood
*What games did you play as a child? We played sports, and caught bugs.
*Where did you go to school? Central Ave, Saint Hedwig, Saint Francis, Holy Cross
*Who were your friends? Julia, Gayle, Mike, Sarah, Nikki, Maria
*Who were your favorite teachers and why? Mrs. Gaylor, Mrs. Taylor, Mrs. Stack
*What were your chores? I made my own lunch and had to clean up after myself, anything else, I was asked and I would do it.


Growing up, teenage years:
*What activities did you participate in?  (Sports, dancing, music, arts, etc.)  Explain what you did with each activity.  I played softball, volleyball and basketball on school and recreational teams for a number of years.
*How did you learn how to drive?  What kind of car did you have? I took drivers ed through my high school. My first car was an 87' Monte Carlo.
*Who were your friends? A lot of the same people, plus Tamara, Jana, Melinda, Ronna
*Did you have a girl/boy friend?  Talk about him/her (if your spouse is okay with it!). I had 2 different ones in high school; Greg & Kevin... neither was right, but I thought they were at the time, both were very needy, and somewhat unmotivated
*What did you like/dislike about school? I loved that I  could be involved in sports, student government and the newspaper without being 'labeled'... I did not like that I did not have a niche.
*What was your first paid job? Holiday Hill, American Pie; both as waitstaff, and eventually management
*What were your chores at home? I did whatever was asked of me, and always cleaned up after myself.


College years:
*Did you attend college or a trade school of some sort? I attended a Liberal Arts, small Private College
*How did you choose what you wanted to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a lawyer, a writer and a mom beginning as early as second grade. I realized once I had begun work for the Police Department, that I wanted to be a teacher.
*What did you think was the hardest thing about your chosen profession at that time?  Did it turn out that way? Convincing everyone it was the right choice for me, followed by passing the tests, followed by finding a job... all still hard
*What dumb things did you do during those years? Pierced my tongue, poor choices in relationships
*What good things did you do? Worked hard, studied hard, took care of myself
*Did you live on your own?  How well prepared were you for that? I lived on campus as an RA, until I finished and immediately moved in a VERY small apartment with Matt.
*What life lessons did you learn? Anything worth doing, takes time, effort and is worth doing 100%
*What choices did you make that affect where you are now? Every single decision.

Work:
*What jobs have you had?  (Give details of the dates, places, responsibilities, etc.) Table buser, server, family events coordinator (Holiday Hill) Waitress, manager (American Pie), Customer Service, Cashier (Macy's) Online website programming, (HiTech), Model/Actress (Central Models) Detective Assistant (Hamden PD), Behavioral Interventionist (Aces), Cashier, Assistant Manager (Follett Store), Painting, home restoration (PC Painting), Various nanny jobs, Teaching (1st, 2nd, K & 5th), Curriculum Writing (North Haven/Wallingford), Personal Training, sports education, fitness (JumpBunch), Online Teaching (Educonnect)
*What did you like/dislike about each job? I loved all the people I worked with, I loved learning new things and being challenged. I did not like long hours, and manual labor.
*What did you learn at each job? There is not enough space for the career development, socialization and life lessons I underwent.
*Have you used any of that knowledge in later years? Absolutely, I am who I am today because of all the experience I have had over my lifetime.
*Who were your bosses?  Did you like them/get along? A great number of differently brilliant people, and with all those jobs, I never left one on negative terms.
*Which was your favorite job? The only jobs I would not do again are waiting tables or being a cashier.
*How many years until you retire? A VERY long time.
*Do you have any big plans for your retirement? (If retired: What have you done since retirement?  What's next?) Travel, write and enjoy life.

Marriage:
*How did you meet your spouse?  We went to the same high school, although we did not associate a relationship with our friendship then. We "re-met" in college.
*How long did you date before you got engaged?  How long was your engagement? We dated for 18 months and remained engaged for an additional 18 months before our wedding.
*How did you get engaged?  He had a whole master plan that fell through, because it was not as perfect as he had planned... Instead, he popped the question in our Disney resort room.
*Who did most of the wedding plans?  I did all of the wedding planning, although Matt contributed as often as he wanted.
*Describe the details of your wedding:  the colors, the cake, the decorations, etc. Sweet Pea and taupe. We selected a strawberry shortcake and beautiful floral centerpieces.
*Where did your wedding take place?  Who performed the ceremony?  Do you remember any words of advice given? Villa Rosa & Saint Mary with Father Bob Grant. His Homily was a beautiful memory of a wintery Sunday when the three of us held Mass together.
*Who attended your wedding? We had 250 guests, mainly family and very close friends.
*Where did you go on your honeymoon?  What adventures did you have? Hawaii & DisneyLand, we took helicopter tours, went hiking, zip-lining and explored California's DisneyLand.


Children:
*Give your children's full names, birth dates and places. Jonathan David (12/24, Yale); Katrina Celeste (5/18, Yale); Christian Jacob (1/17, St Mary)
*How did you choose their names? We agrees on middle names, and initials before we picked first names, Matt chose boy names and I, girl names.
*What were the circumstances of each child's birth? All were super quick, natural and totally different. JD, premature and amniotic sac broke several hours before delivery; KC, right on time, doctor assisted water brake, and I literally watched seconds pass before I decided to push; CJ, very late, born in sac standing in hallway of hospital.
*What are some funny things that each child does/did or says/said? I always love the accents the children have and the words/phrases they mis-speak.
*What do you love most about each child?  What are their strengths and weaknesses? JD is a exceptional learner/reader, but fears bees and is easily frustrated; KC is gifted in arts/dance, but fears being alone; CJ is still very young, but he can make the entire world smile in 10 seconds flat, but he is a huge fan of danger!
*What are your children involved in? Karate, baseball, football, gymnastics and dance
*How do you spend your time with your children? Mainly doing schoolwork or art projects
*What are your favorite family activities? Friday night dinner and a movie, or vacationing around the run

Celebrations:
*What are some of your personal and family traditions for each holiday?  (New Years, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Easter, Christmas, etc.) I embrace all the holidays, even the little ones, like "Talk Like a Pirate Day", we spend the 4th in the Cape, and Thanksgiving is always at my home. I enjoy Elf on the Shelf and any other 'games' associated with the holidays.
*What traditions have you carried over from your childhood?  Which ones did you start in your own family? Setting up the tree together, visiting a haunted house, carving pumpkins, all the little things...
*How do you celebrate adult's birthdays? Dinner of choice and cake with close family
*How do you celebrate children's birthdays? Small themed party, that I organize insanely.
*How do you celebrate your anniversary? Dinner on any night remotely close to the date, that we can get a babysitter for.


Home life:
*Describe the places you've lived. 3 tiny apartments for Matt and I until we bought the tiny house that we have outgrown and need to find a new one.
*What was your favorite house or apartment?  Why? We don't own it yet, I love the land and neighborhood right now but the house does not suit us anymore.
*How do you like to decorate? Traditionally, with a hint of modern and a smudge of country.
*What is it about home that you love? my family.


Sleep:
*How many hours do you like to sleep at night? VERY few, maybe 4 or 5
*Do you take naps? Nearly never
*Do you like a lot, or few blankets and pillows? One warm blanket and one flat pillow
*Can you sleep anywhere, or does it have to be in your own bed? I am so tired nearly always that I could even sleep standing up
*What are your favorite conditions for a good-night's sleep?  Does it have to be completely dark and quiet? I like to be warm and cozy except for my head, but I do like it dark and very quiet.


Food:
*What are your favorite foods? Steak, Alfredo, Gorgonzola salad, fried calamari
*What are your favorite desserts? Cheesecake
*Do you like to cook or bake?  What are your favorites to make? I love to cook, anything and everything, I do not like to follow recipes though so nothing is ever the same twice.
*Do you have any food allergies? Nope
*What are some foods you have a hard time saying "no" to? Candy
*What foods do you HAVE to have name brand?  Which can you do generic? Bisquick, Cheeses, just about anything else can be generic
*Do you try to eat healthy? Only, always...
*Do you prefer eating out?  Where? I enjoy the break from cooking and cleaning, I like family style, family friendly and fancier dinners, but not necessarily chain type stuff.

Health:
*How is your overall health? Good, I have problem areas that I am addressing
*Have you had any surgeries? (If yes, give details.) Nope
*Have you had any broken bones?  (If yes, give details.) My nose as an infant
*Do you have allergies? (If yes, give details.) Caffeine sensitivity
*What are you doing to keep healthy now? Diet, exercise and supplements

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What makes you Happier?

I have always noticed it is the little things that make us the happiest, bring the most joy into our lives.

Make the beds

De-clutter

Display memories

Reflect a phrase a day

Do chores with enthusiasm

Set a daily intention

Spread the love - and do a favor

Call someone every day

Connect with something greater

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SPA Birthday for Preshoolers

Dry Ingredients:
1 cup baking soda
1/2 cup citric acid
1/2 cup corn starch

Mix dry ingredients together until completely combined and smooth. (I ground up oats in my blender and added about 1/4 cup of that too. It gives the bombs a cool textured look AND it’s good for your skin as well.)
Wet Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 Tbsp sunflower or other light oil (almond oil would be good too.)
• 3/4 Tbsp water
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of Lavender essential oil (depending on how strong your oil is)
• 1/4 tsp Vitamin E oil (optional, but recommended – an antioxidant which preserves the oils)
• 1/4 teaspoon borax (an emulsifier)
• witch hazel in a spray bottle (it doesn’t come in a spray bottle, you will have to put it in one)
• vegetable or other natural colorant (I didn’t feel like messing with color, so I left them white)
•  
  Whisk all of the wet ingredients and Borax together in a large bowl
•  Drizzle slowly onto the dry ingredients and blend thoroughlyMix with your hands until all of the ingredients are combined.
  
  
  Lightly spray the mixture 2-3 times with witch hazel.
  
  
  The mixture should just start to hold together when pressed in your hand, like slightly moist fine sand. If it’s not sticking together, spray a little more witch hazel.
  
  
  Pack TIGHTLY into molds. I ordered these fun ones off of Amazon.com, but you could use anything really.  Even a small (1/4 cup) measuring cup.
  
  
  Let the bath bombs dry and harden overnight before you pick them up. I got a little impatient (who, ME?) and tried to take them out of the molds a few hours later and they would not cooperate. In the morning, however, the ones I hadn’t messed with were hard as a rock. Silly me. No worries though, the crumbly stuff works just as well in the bath. :-)
  This recipe made about 16 bath bombs that were 1-5/8″ inches in diameter. Can’t wait to make some more!
  
  

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What Not to Say...

1. No (running, hitting, yelling, fill in the verb)!

Kids hear the word "no" far too frequently. You can always rephrase the sentence from a negative to a positive, which will correct the behavior without sounding critical. Train yourself to say what you want them to do instead of what you don't. So, you can say "Walk, please" instead of "No running".

2. Good job!

Train yourself to respond with "You did it!" or "You got it!" or "You figured it out!". Notice the common element is starting with the word "you" and then acknowledging what they worked at, rather than what you think about it.

3. Don't argue with me.

Children are programmed to question, analyze and wonder about situations. This can sometimes present itself in an argumentative manner, but this is actually a normal part of development. Instead of cutting off the conversation, you can say, "I know you want my answer to be different, but it will not change". You can also train yourself to make sure the child fully understands your response, with "I just told you my answer. Do you have a question about it?" This allows the child to present their opinion or get clarification.

4. Wait until your Dad/Mom/other person finds out about this.

First, this creates anxiety and fear in the child, especially of the person who you are going to tell about whatever happened. Second, it ignores your responsibility to deal with the issue at hand and passes it to someone else. By the time a child has gotten in trouble for something, they already feel guilty, sorry and embarrassed about it. Choose whether the other person really needs to know about the issue, and if yes, let the child decide who will tell them. "Do you choose to tell (Mom) what happened, or choose for me to tell her with you there to make sure that I explain it correctly?" This gives the child respect and responsibility for their actions.

5. If you do that one more time...

I can't tell you the number of times I hear that phrase when around other parents, even though it is highly ineffective. First, you are threatening a child, which makes them fearful of you. Second, the threat is usually not something that is feasible to do (we are going home, you are going straight to bed, you don't get dinner, you are grounded for a week, etc.) What we say in frustration is not only impractical but easily forgettable. Then we contradict our credibility. You can train yourself to be clear and concise, using choices. "If you choose to (continue that behavior), you choose to (receive whatever consequence has already been established as a punishment)". You might say, "Erin, if you choose to poke your sister again, you choose to not watch TV for the rest of the day". This clearly communicates the expectation and the consequence, without a threat.

6. You are doing that the wrong way.

Parents tend to want control all of the time, and it takes work to allow kids to have freedom to do what they choose. Of course, there will be times when a task must be completed in a certain fashion (homework, etc.). However, many times we force kids to do something the "right way", when it could have been done in several ways. Train yourself to acknowledge their behavior without a judgment, such as "You chose to sit the other way on the chair" or "You colored the grass purple instead". This gives them the freedom to be creative and discover things without expectations.

7. That is what happens when you...

We often try to teach lesson to kids about life at the most inappropriate times. If a child gets hurt because they were doing something dangerous or inappropriate, they already learned their lesson. It is wasted words to try to express a rule when a child is upset, as they focus on one thing at a time. Instead, train yourself to say, "You realized that you jumped off the chair and got hurt when you landed on the ground", rather than, "See, that is what happens when you jump off the chair". The former acknowledges that the child already figured out the problem, but is still comforting.

8. You can't/Don't do that.

When redirecting behavior, it is difficult to know how to phrase things in the best manner. Telling a child that they can't do something makes them prove that they can, by telling you or showing you that it is in fact possible. Telling a kid to not do something makes them want to argue or rebel. Train yourself to explain the reason behind your statement. "That is not safe" or "Your skin is not for coloring on" is specific and helps them learn why things are off limits, rather than just that they are.

9. We are (whatever the child doesn't want to do at that moment), OKAY?

In an attempt to be kind and loving to children, parents tend to ask kids for their approval. I understand the rationale behind it, but I believe it becomes a habit when trying to convince a child to comply. Parents will often say, "We are leaving the playground now and we'll come back again, okay?" The reality is that asking your child if it is okay sets you up for an argument when the child says no. You already know that he doesn't want to leave, or you wouldn't be negotiating with him. Train yourself to state things in sentence form, while acknowledging the child's feelings. "I know you want to stay and play, but it is time to go. We can come back another day". This helps the child feel understood, but still communicates that leaving is non-negotiable.

10. You are making me really mad right now.

When I was a child and fought with my younger brother, I would complain to my mom that he made me mad about something. She would (and still does) respond with "No one can make you feel anything. You choose to get mad." At the time, I hated that phrase. However, it is very true. Parents tend to let their children control their emotions, when it is the parent who is ultimately responsible for how they feel. It is also important for kids to understand that they choose what they feel, and they are not creating emotions in you. Train yourself to say, "I need a break right now because I am getting upset" or "I am angry right now". You can communicate your feelings to your children without placing the burden of cause on them.

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How to have a Winning Wardrobe

Purge ruthlessly.
Keep only those pieces that you absolutely love and that you currently wear on a regular basis. If something doesn’t fit, has holes or stains, is out of season, or you just really don’t like it anymore, it needs to come out.
Determine each item’s fate. Just because it comes out right now doesn’t mean you have to throw it out or send it to Goodwill. If you’re anything like me, you probably have clothes in a variety of sizes, some of which you may still really like and hope to fit into again. Store a bin of “skinny clothes” to pull out - when you lose the weight.
Invest in great hangers. It is such a simple thing, but I found that buying a limited quantity of really nice hangers was the best motivation to finally weed out everything I didn’t love. It really wasn’t a huge investment but psychologically it made all the difference. And frankly, even inexpensive clothes seem luxurious when hanging on nice hangers.
Minimize your losses. Clothes & accessories that are in good shape can be brought to a consignment shop  or sold via Craigslist, eBay, Facebook, or garage sale.
Make it easy to keep things in order. Set up a no-fail system that is simple to maintain. I have clearly labeled baskets for the things that are hard to fold–bras, panties, swimwear, socks, pajamas, & accessories. I love keeping the laundry hamper in my closet as well–it makes sorting laundry so much simpler!
Once you’ve managed to pare your closet down to the bare minimum and have kept the pieces you truly love, keep it that way! When buying something new, choose quality over quantity. Resist the urge to buy something simply because it is on sale. You are always better off buying ONE piece that you love than TEN items that are just okay.
Re-evaluate regularly. It is a good idea to re-assess, re-sort, and re-evaluate your closet every few months. Once a season double check to make sure that your items are still in good shape, that they still fit, and that they are free of stains & holes. If necessary, pull seasonal items out of storage to add to the rotation, and store any items that are no longer seasonally appropriate.

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The Mom Curse

You go into a store with the intention of buying yourself new underwear, (since the last time you did they were maternity panties - and really you are not ready to rock those granny panty style for the next millennium... yet)
....In any event you go in to the store, and you see sneakers.... ya, my sons can use new sneakers, SO you grab a pair for each of them... and that makes you think, I bet the hubs needs new work shoes... oh and if I am gettting something for them, I better pick something up for my daugther. and with that you leave the store without the panties, but several pairs of shoes and something pink and sparkly.

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"What did you say?" How to annoy a mom...

1) Where do you get your energy from? 
Honestly 90% of the time ALL moms are tired, down right exhausted, but we do what we have to. This is the same for moms of 1 or moms of 12, and all those moms in between.

or the opposite

2) You look tired.
Honestly 90% of the time ALL moms are tired, down right exhausted, but we do what we have to. This is the same for moms of 1 or moms of 12, and all those moms in between.


3) Gee, I haven't seen you in a while, you've aged.
Clearly all people have not read the books of manners. It is NEVER okay to point out someone looks older, unless they are five.

4) Do you work?... No like, a real job?
Anything a mom does is work, it takes twenty-five minutes minimum to walk to the bathroom. Some moms work in the house, some moms work outside the home, some for a few hours, some for many hours... regardless of their pay schedule, all moms are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. THAT is a REAL job.
 

5) You look like such a mom..
This just seems like a slam. Is it the pony tail? The workout clothes? The ratty sneakers? The mini-van? The oatmeal on my shirt? Or the kid who just wiped his nose on my pants? Why must you point out the obvious?

6) Are they all yours?
 It is mind boggling to me why a mom of three would hear this.. But I have. If a circus of small children were following me, I could understand this, but they are not.

7) Wow you have your hands full.
If my children are mouthy, loud, obnoxious, rude or unruly, you can THINK this, THINK it.. In your brain. DO NOT say it! My hands are perfectly fine. My children are wonderful.

8) You look really pretty today.
I know, I know,.. It sounds nice. Its awfully condescending to say "today", how did I look yesterday?

9) Oh, she's crying aren't you going to do something?
Perhaps you didn't see her crying, isn't it obvious that I already DID something. And Don't ask me why she's crying.. perhaps you have not seen the FB posting and blog postings that little ones cry for anything, or nothing... a lot!

10) When are you due?
 Do not ever, ever, ever ask this... Unless I shout "My water broke", first look for a water bottle, THEN assume I am pregnant.

11) Oh just give him some candy... one piece won't hurt
Oh, I am sorry doctor,  didn't see your degrees there. One piece CAN hurt FYI, ever here of anaphylactic shock?

12) Enjoy every moment.. it goes by so fast
Oh, why didn't I think of that?! Actually, some moments stink, if I am being honest... and I will most likely look back on those moments and say "Thank God that's over" and not "Oh how I miss changing diapers and being peed on" or "I really wish someone would wipe their snotty nose on my leg before I run to the store in my ratty sneakers and mini-van"

13)  Are you still breast feeding, co sleeping, rear facing...??? (or any other PARENT choice)
Unless I brought it up, I do NOT want to talk to you about it, strange lady in line at the supermarket...

14) Woah he's huge... shes so thin.... Is that baby healthy?
Seriously? Did I ask you about that double chin you're sporting or the filth under your fingernails? Do not question my child during a growth spurt, or any time for that matter...He is healthy, so is she...let it go.

15) Are you done (having children) yet?
 Oh, sorry, are my happy, well-adjusted, well-cared for children taking up your oxygen? Don't question the growth, or lack their of of my family. WE we stop having children, how and when we choose to.

16) Were they all planned?
 See above... and yes, they were ALL someone's plan. May not have been mine, or my husbands... but somebody's.

17) Are you sure she's allergic? Maybe she just doesn't like it...
Phew! Why didn't I think of that!? Oh Honey, just eat it, even though you are vomiting and its running right through your rear, you are covered in hives and can't breathe, this strange -looking , double-chinned, filthy finger-nailed, doctor lady in the super market line said it was okay...

18) Oh... you home school?
Yup. Yup I do.
That explains it I suppose... My brilliant, well adjusted children who happen to be exceeding all expectations of their peers, and can clearly out perform you ANY day at your mind-numbing mediocre job...

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Its Just a Number on the Scale...

Your only as young as you feel... If that's true then what should also be true is ... You are only as fit as you feel..

Numbers may not lie, but each number by itself does not speak the whole truth. Especially if you have a scale that reads a BMI. The BMI is notoriously inaccurate in making calculations for women in order to determine the healthy weight, see what I mean here or here.
Generally speaking women of different body types, may not have the most accurate results, women have all sorts of different frames, although I am 5'4 and healthy, my scale repeatedly tells me I need to gain 5+ lbs, despite the fact that my BMI is within a healthy weight AND my clothes are too snug, and my measurements are BEYOND the healthy proportions for my frame.

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Days 5 & 6 of a Better Me...

As always, I am enjoying having the extra time to be with the kids in an attempt to maintain my sanity, unfortunately I spent the better part of this morning working (and that's DRAINING), cleaning and preparing for a playdate tomorrow. I am feeling super stressed lately, I do not know if its the compounding tasks I am giving myself to better myself or something else.

I managed to abstain from Social Media for the entire day, almost clicking that horrid little Facebook button, but was quickly able to shut the phone down and put it away. PHEW! That was close!
I never would have thought that the reading for 30 minutes, would be the biggest challenge! Today, I planned on getting caught reading but it just didn't happen, this I am struggling most with! There is such little time for me to sit and do anything....just cooking, cleaning and if I am lucky, even a shower.

Physical activity time was a hit today! Both, KC & JD raced in the halls and completed a Kinect workout! It really was fun! Tomorrow I hope we are able to incorporate a dance party, although it is Karate day!

Call making was also a success today! I phoned several friends AND family, everyone was slow to answer! It didn't help that I am having an annoying challenge from a home demonstration simultaneously. I plan to continue this throughout the Lenten season, never calling the same person two (2) consecutive days and just randomly swiping my phone to a letter to call someone I may not have phoned in a while. Actual human conversation and interaction is not what it used to be with the Internet infringing on human communications.

I am still undergoing my sugar detox and I feel it is going very well, so I plan to continue it the best I can.

I had a successful first day working out and actually managed a 40 minute boot camp routine without a problem. Continuing for the rest is going to be a challenge - one that I am up for! I am not going to set a specific amount of time, anything from 10 minutes to a full hour. 

Now, I have also added, 5-10 quiet moments of meditation and prayer each day and to end my yelling. I feel I would be a calmer and more effective mother, and person if I had more time for reflection and maintained a nice calm voice. 

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Day 4 of a Better Me...

I am enjoying having the extra time to be with the kids in an attempt to maintain my sanity, unfortunately today I spent a good part of the day with a migraine, thus inhibiting my ability to function like a normal human being.
I cuddled with my sick little lady and watched cartoons (since its Saturday), and the only time I used Social Media was during my trip to the grocery store.
I plan on reading for 30 minutes, while I lay in bed this evening. Today, I planned on getting caught reading but it just didn't happen.
Since the children have been bottled up all winter, I sent JD out for a walk with my mother, allowing KC & CJ time to rest and I worked out at home...
Now, making one (1) call to speak to an actual person about the things that really matter, that was hard! I phoned two friends and left two messages. I plan to continue this throughout the Lenten season, never calling the same person two (2) consecutive days. Actual human conversation and interaction is not what it used to be with the Internet infringing on human communications.
I am still undergoing my sugar detox and I feel it is going very well, so I plan to continue it the best I can. What I am doing now is adding in a workout into my schedule each and every day, I am not going to set a specific amount of time, anything from 10 minutes to a full hour. 

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Day 3 of a Better Me...

I am enjoying having the extra time to be with the kids in an attempt to maintain my sanity.
I caved a bit today in my downtime with my limited social media. I had some downtime during the children's science class, and I spent it silly on social media... I should have spent it reading.

The reading for 30 minutes, seemed more of a challenge than I originally anticipated, but I pushed through. I read to the children, and read alone to myself while they rested. Today, I planned on getting caught reading but it just didn't happen. I read as I rocked Baby Cash to sleep, and hope to get a little more before I fall asleep.

Since the children have been bottled up all winter, and I am finding more time to be with them, I am going to find 30 minutes each day to engage the children in some sort of physical activity, from dancing to yoga, or tunneling to tumbling.. Anything really to get them on their feet and move around a bit, Today we ran and ran and ran around the Nature Center!

Now, I'll add a bit more of a challenge. I am going to make one (1) call to speak to an actual person about the things that really matter. I plan to continue this throughout the Lenten season, never calling the same person two (2) consecutive days. Actual human conversation and interaction is not what it used to be with the Internet infringing on human communications.

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Day 2 of a Better Me...

I am enjoying having the extra time to be with the kids in an attempt to maintain my sanity. And this 
limited social media is hard. I have found myself being sillier, talking to my children more and smiling more.
Then, it makes me a bit sad to think about those silly, happy moments that I was missing just a few days ago and I don't think I want to go back...not when Lent is over, not ever. If there is anything I should be focused on completely it is my children.

The reading for 30 minutes, seemed more of a challenge than I originally anticipated, but I pushed through. I read to the children, and read alone to myself while they rested. Tomorrow I plan on getting caught reading.

Since the children have been bottled up all winter, and I am finding more time to be with them, I am going to find 30 minutes each day to engage the children in some sort of physical activity, from dancing to yoga, or tunneling to tumbling.. Anything really to get them on their feet and move around a bit.
I am 100% certain that being involved with the children and involving them in activities co-cooperatively
is exactly why we are all home and all together.

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Day 1 of Better Me

So I have limited my social media to only be before 7am and after 7pm. I feel awesome about putting aside the electronics to focus on whats more important, my family. I have noticed a little "down time" that Is making me want to check the internet.

With this time, I decided I need to up the anty a bit. I am adding a day 2 challenge: Read for 30 minutes a day.

This can be effective in so many ways. I could spend the time reading to my little ones, or setting a positive example of reader.

In our fast paced world, few can take the time to sit, relax and read a good book or any book for that matter.

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40 Days to a better me!

Is it time for Lent already? Giving up something for Lent sometimes evokes head-scratching in non-Catholics and often even Catholics...

Lent, the period of 40 days that precedes the celebration of Easter, has its origin in the early days of the Church. It is a symbol for final period of “purification and enlightenment” for the 40 days before their baptism at Easter for new Christians. 

Today we acknowledge he ways we have turned away from God in our lives and we focus on turning our hearts and minds back during Lent. Hence the three pillars of Lent are prayer, fasting and almsgiving.  Giving up something for Lent is ultimately a form of fasting. We can deprive ourselves of some small pleasure or indulgence and offer that sacrifice up to God. Or we might “give up” a bad habit such as smoking as a way of positively turning our life back towards what God wants for us.

An experience of want, however temporary, can help us to appreciate the true abundance in our lives. And a small positive change can have a big impact that lasts beyond the 40 days of Lent.

This year during Lent, I am striving to be my best self, adding an additional challenge each day that I will continue until Easter. My FIRST task, challenge and sacrifice will be fasting from electronic media during daytime hours.

7 to 7 my time will be devoted to those who really matter. This is going to be fairly hard considering I have a business to run, but I need my family more! Anything else can wait until morning, or evening. 

How will you better yourself this season? Is there something you enjoy that you want to sacrifice for a while? Or is it a bad habit you want to conquer? Find something that works for you, and whatever it is, may it help you to turn towards God in this holy season of Lent.

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On the Road Again...

Have you ever taken your children on a road trip?
I mean a LOOOOOONG road trip,1,100 miles from home.
We did, and it was way better than I anticipated. Check out the Details.

Although I was virtually terrified about the trip, I continually re-assured my husband everything would be perfect and the children would transition smoothly from our normal airline trips to this driving adventure to Florida.

The trip itself began super smoothly indeed! The car was packed and children in their seats comfortably snacking just after lunchtime, nearly exactly when we had planned on leaving.

The drive was virtually uneventful, the children slept (afternoon nap time), until we arrived in the Carolinas', where we were able to stop for dinner at Outback (using a gift card that was about 10 years old - yay for CT for not letting them expire). After a quick stretch and a change into pajamas (just for the children ;) and back on the road again.

A few more stops for gas, bathroom and stretches and we reached Florida! The children did SO well! They did not utter the dreaded "Are we there yet", until roughly 30 minutes from the Hotel! Then it was off the the EXPO, and a much needed shower and dinner!

Yay for awesome kids!

Are you thinking of taking a trip?

Here are some MUSTS:

1. Start talking about the “adventure.” It was going to be fun and exciting, and I wanted the kids to be just as excited as I was.
2. Load up on books and other media! Grab a handful of books and DVDs new to you, and separate them into two bags, one for the way there and one for the way back.
3. A good list is a must. As a mom I never leave home without a container of baby wipes and an extra change of clothes for my little ones.
4. Pack “surprises” for your tiny travelers. The dollar store is my go-to for this! I grabbed cute reusable bags, and filled them with coloring books, crayons, books, stickers, tattoos and snacks.
5. Make stops! This is the biggest non-negotiable! Believe me, I would have loved my 22 hour drive to have only been 18 , but I realized that this was my children’s first long road trip. So, we stopped at every time we went below a-half-a-tank, filled up, used the restrooms and did a good-old-fashioned stretch.
6. Talk with your kids! Lets face it, kids won't sit quietly in a car. We sang, chatted and viewed all sorts of things we passed.
7. Pack snacks. All sorts of favorite things, especially those that they have not had in awhile. 
8. Make mess stoppers! I have a brand new vehicle and I don't like messes, but we are driving... for 20 hours.... with three kids. I made trays for them to hold their snacks, AND allow them to have a flat surface for reading and drawing. 

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Affordable Outdoor Family Friendly Activities

 In a world awash with technology, it can be hard to find activities for kids that involve putting down the iPADs and getting outside. One of the best ways to encourage your children to embrace the outdoors is to take them some place new and exciting. This will break the monotonous routine and ultimately allow more acceptance of a new adventure.
  It’s unfortunate, but to a child, being sent outside can sometimes feel like a punishment or a burden. (Some children are sent outside as a consequence of making a nuisance of themselves indoors.) Parents need to lead by example. Get out there and get active. Let your inner child come out and play, gain some fresh air, exercise and reconnect with life’s simpler pleasures.
  Some days, my son's main interaction with nature consists of playing Angry Birds, and I know I have a a problem! Exploring and ruining 'a muck' outdoors is a chance to be kids and explore, without any kind of restrictions or limitations as long as they remain safe, and allow their creativity to explore and their imaginations to blossom.
 Winter is finally over, and those of us who have been stuck in the house due to cold weather can finally breathe a sigh of relief. It's time to venture out for some fresh air, vitamin D, and exercise. Outdoor activities need to be a regular occurrence, so variety is a must.  Need some ideas for outdoor activities? Here are some low-cost or free timeless ideas for encouraging creative and independent play:


Visit KaBOOM
This interactive map lists different playgrounds, fields, pools and other play spaces in your area. Visitors can add playgrounds to the user-generated map, upload pictures and rate them. 

Chalk Adventure
Sidewalk chalk is one of the most fun and affordable outdoor activities for kids. Set your family’s imagination loose and hit the pavement to create a family art gallery. Every family member can draw their picture on their own section of sidewalk.

Plant a Garden
By planting a garden, a child can experience the satisfaction that comes with caring for something over time, while observing the cycle of life first hand. Gardening can also bring environmental awareness to kids at an earlier age. 

Play the Backyard Matching Game
Go outside with your kids and have them close their eyes, as you fill a paper bag with items from the backyard. Gather pine cones, leaves, rocks, pebbles, flowers, etc. Have your children reach in the bag, pull out an object and hunt for a similar one in your yard. Continue until each item from the bag has a match. 

Create a Backyard Scavenger Hunt
Make your own scavenger hunt handout or find one online at Go Explore Nature. See how many things you and your children can find. 

Make a Nature Notebook
A nature notebook can help your kids keep track of their observations. Spend thirty minutes a day finding interesting things to put in their notebook. They can draw pictures of what they see or take notes. 

Conduct a Bug Hunt
Turn over a rock or look under a flower pot for some creepy crawlers. Using a bug container will allow your kids to look closely at different worms and insects without getting too grossed out -- just make sure to put the bugs back where you found them.  

Camp-out
Have a camp out in your backyard. A campfire is a great idea, as long as you check it with your local fire departments. You may need a permit, or your area may not allow campfires.

Go on Day Trips
Whether it's a trip to a park, museum or field, going on a day trip is a fun way for you and your kids to get out of the house and learn more about nature. 


Tennis Anyone?
The portability of tennis rackets and balls is a gift. It's a blast.

Go Fishing
A fairly decent fishing pole can be purchased at a store for as little as $12 - $15. A family can make a whole day out of fishing (leisurely of course). It's simple. Pack the car with a couple of fishing poles a bucket and bait.

Outdoor Movie Night
Thanks to our outdoor plugs, when the weather permits we play a movie via the laptop in the back yard. We view on blankets under starry skies (it's really fun!). It's a great time to make Smores too.

Explore a Rotten Log
That dead tree or stump can be a great science lesson. Kids can investigate and note everything they see: what's on the surface, moss, holes bored into the log, bugs and more. Ask your child questions about what bugs they saw and what they think they were doing there -- like finding shelter or gathering food. 

Bubbles
Bubbles are a timeless kid favorite. Let them blow the bubbles - they will be so proud of their accomplishment! Or you blow the bubbles and they can run around the yard trying to pop them. You can buy bubbles at the dollar store or other discount outlets for cheap, or you can look up online how to make them at home using dish soap.


Build a Bird Feeder
Get a bird feeder or make one yourself using a pinecone and peanut butter, and put it outside near a window. Kids can look out the window whenever they please and it's an easy and simple way to keep kids connected with nature. 

Head Out on a Nature Walk
Whether you live in a city, a suburb or a rural area, a nature walk is a simple way to get your kids outside. Even just walking around your block, kids can observe trees, bugs and birds they see along the way. 

Scavenger hunt
Scavenger hunts are a great way to keep kids busy. Make a list of everyday items they can find in the yard. For younger kids who can't read, you can use pictures. For example, your list could include a pinecone, a green leaf, a smooth stone, a stick, and so on. The kids will love exploring the backyard and competing to see who can complete their list first.


Geocaching
Technology is not commonly associated with getting outside however, but geocaching is an easy way to combine the two. It's is a high-tech treasure hunt, where users search for treasures or "caches" using a GPS device to pinpoint the correct location. 

Take a Penny Walk
To make a walk with your kids a little more interesting, let a penny lead the way! When you come to a road, turn or intersection, flip a penny. If it lands on heads, go right and if it lands on tails, turn left. 

Waterway Stay-cation
Instead a day at the lake, blow up an inflatable pool, make frozen juice pops, break out the suntan lotion and spend the day at your own private beach.


 Bike Riding
Our city boasts plenty of canal paths and trails designated for bikers. The internet and local town recreation offices will typically provide access to biking trails in your town.

How do you get outside with your kids?

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Detox take 2...

I do not like failure. I like even less when I have to admit it to myself and least of all when I have to share news of failure with others.

My first attempt at a sugar detox was a complete failure! There, I said it. Failed.

After talking to some friends I realized I was not alone. Kicking the sugar addition is hard to do!

The hardest part for MOST people was the morning coffee, for me it was lack of breakfast options.

It's no secret that too much sugar is bad for our health. The FDA recommends about 70g of sugar a day for men and 50g for women but many of us are exceeding this. Even this is HIGH. Dietitians and physicians recommend no more than 24g (or 6 teaspoons) a day for a healthy diet. 

I FIRST started thinking, hey I can swing this. And with no official plan (or grocery trip) I started off reading labels, EVERYTHING has sugar. Everything! 

And all of my knowledge about health and fitness points to the fact that excess sugar consumption can cause weight gain, energy slumps and even wrinkles, so its totally worth the pain and suffering for a tiny bit of time.

In round two - for the standard days; breakfast consists of eggs - scrambled, poached or hard boiled (with tons of veggies - peppers, onions, mushrooms and tomatoes) - Lunch is salads, such as tuna or poached or grilled chicken on a bed of leaves, and dinner comes in the form of protein, such as grilled fish, chicken, pork or steak, with a selection of vegetables, and if necessary a starch like quinoa or sweet potato.

 

The only snacks allowed over the three days include nuts and vegetable sticks with hummus, celery with peanut butter or sliced, or raisins and you can only drink green/herbal tea and one black coffee per day (along with lots of water that can be jazzed up with a slice of lime or lemon) and unsweetened almond or coconut milk.

I suggest BEFORE the first 3 days there is a trial period. During this trial it is essential to limit sugar as much as possible, no processed, no carbs and no more than 1/4 cup of fruit a day. One the 3 days are up, rotate to ALL IN! While sticking to the plan is not easy, the mild modification from 'cold turkey' and cutting out all sugar - including that found in fruit - for subsequent days is necessary to set people on the right path.

The Sugar Fix doesn’t allow any bread, rice, or pasta, but that is because starchy carbohydrates are a major contributor to sugar addiction. These are replaced with good carbohydrates that are full of fiber, such as vegetables, and can actually help lower blood sugar.
After the initial 10-day detox, some sugar is then re-introduced as the diet progresses to make it more manageable. Fruit in limited amounts is the first to be re-introduced. Here beginning slowly is key, begin at 1/8 cup, increasing 1/8 every 3 days until a max of 1 cup is reached. At which point 1/8 up of full fat dairy can be re-introduced, followed by 1/8 cup of complex carbs (after the full cup of dairy is reached). Processed and packaged foods should remain rarities if ever. Substitutions for sugar should become honey (localized) or stevia whenever possible and limited to 1 small item per day or week if possible.

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Being a MOM changes everything

I mean everything....
Take getting ready to leave the house for instance...

Before motherhood: I could shower (taking the time to rinse, lather and repeat, shave everything necessary), spray some lovely fragrance, lotion up, brush my hair and teeth without interruption, put on clothes that fit my frame perfectly, uncomfortable yet adorable shoes, and makeup and hair to near perfection.

After children: On a good day, I am lucky enough to shower in two seconds flat (before blood curdling screams occur on the outside of the door) - definitely a rinse, maybe a quick lather, the repeat is no-go, shaving only happens once a week in the summer months IF you are lucky, skip the fragrance (the children will pretend they are gagging on whichever scent is chosen), skip the lotion and stare at my VERY dry legs while brushing my teeth and hair simultaneously, then throw on yoga gear and sneakers, no makeup, no time for hair....

BUT; It doesn't HAVE to be this way! Don't let yourself go! You are worth some YOU time!
Just change your routine a bit and look for short-cuts! Shower at night, and lightly towel dry and smooth brush your hair (its better for split ends and dry hair anyway) plus, you can shave and rinse, lather and repeat! AND double bonus, use a Schick Hydro Silk (get silky skin and afford to skip the lotion-- I was lucky enough to try it as a BZZAgent)! When you wake get dressed right away (keep the yoga pants for yoga) and put some makeup on early, when its time to leave, do a touch up and a hair check... boom!

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Snacking on the road trip!

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Week 3 of Detox! (Days 15 - 21)

LAST week!

DAY FIFTEEN

Breakfast: Fried eggs, bacon & kale

Lunch: Beef & broccoli & quinoa

Dinner: Roasted butternut squash, Garlic Chicken

Garlic Chicken

• 1 tablespoon ghee or coconut oil
• sea salt & black pepper to taste
• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or other cut, cooking time will vary)
• 1 small onion, finely sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced or grated
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder or fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon white sesame seeds (omit for autoimmune friendly)
• 1-2 pinches chili flakes (*omit for nightshade-free/autoimmune friendly)
• 1/4 cup coconut aminos (available at most Whole Foods Markets or local organic grocers/co-ops for around $5-7/bottle)

• Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
• In an oven safe cast iron or stainless steel skillet, melt the ghee, then season both sides of the chicken with sea salt and black pepper, and place skin side down into the pan for 5-6 minutes or until the skin browns and releases easily from the pan.
• While the chicken cooks, combine the onion, garlic, ginger, sesame seeds, chili flakes, coconut aminos and more sea salt and black pepper in a small mixing bowl.
• Flip the chicken thighs over so that they are now skin side up in the pan, then pour the sauce mixture over the chicken evenly and place the pan into the oven for 30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees.

DAY SIXTEEN

Breakfast: Egg with vegetable salsa & avocado

Lunch: Turkey Burger in Lettuce Wrap with side of mixed vegetable

Dinner: Julienne squash & zucchini with diced tomato "sauce" & meatballs

DAY SEVENTEEN

Breakfast: Egg, bacon, sausage & avocado scramble

Lunch: Julienne squash & zucchini with diced tomato "sauce" & meatballs

Dinner: Roasted parsnips, turnips, onions and steamed shrimp with side spinach salad

DAY EIGHTEENTH

Breakfast:  Fried eggs, bacon & spinach

Lunch: Tuna lettuce wrap, vegetable sticks

Dinner: Stew with mushrooms, onions & carrots

DAY NINETEEN

Breakfast: Hard boiled Egg, & bacon, sausage, tomato, avocado mix

Lunch: Stew & salad

Dinner: Pulled Pork, sweet potato & mixed roasted vegetables

DAY TWENTY

Breakfast: Pulled Pork Scramble w diced tomato.avocado salsa

Lunch: Pulled pork &sweet potato

Dinner: Roasted chicken, spinach & carrots, onion diced and baked

DAY TWENTY-ONE

Breakfast: Home-made applesauce, blueberries, fried egg, & sausage

Lunch: Pulled Pork over spinach salad

Dinner: (Leftover) Chicken, spinach, carrots & onion

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