TESTER

THIS IS A TESTER BLOG

2011-10-01T18:59:00.003-04:00

THIS IS A TESTER BLOG, MEANT TO BE USED FOR TRYING OUT NEW BLOG DESIGNS.

~~~DO NOT CONFUSE THIS WITH THE REAL DEAL.~~~

If you have found this page by mistake, head over to the Eco-Friendly Family by clicking HERE!

Is Dr.Phil hard up for cash?

2009-10-09T15:31:00.003-04:00

Okay, I'm not a TV watcher, in general. I sat down to nurse my daughter and turned on the TV.

Dr. Phil had evidently just got done speaking to some young man (falsely accused of rape) and his mother. I guess the daughter had been teased and bullied about this, so he says "I'm not going to parade a 12 year old out here with the audience." Or something much like that. So he goes back stage.

He begins talking to the girl, and says "Let's walk." The next thing you know, they're walking by a wall covered in logos! They reach the end of the corridor. He stops, the camera turns and he nudges her arm (as if to follow him) and he walks back down the corridor, by the wall again! They reach the end and then finish their talk.

What the heck!!!

I mean really? That was pretty shameless in my opinion.

Perhaps this is why I don't watch much TV.

Sorry to write about something so silly, but really? That seems low, even for a talk show personality.

Cold Season & Blog News

2009-10-06T14:48:00.002-04:00

Well, our baby girl has RSV. We had to take her to the ER last night. She's just got a mild fever, but we went in to be safe. Thankfully she's doing very well and after some *very* unpleasant tests, and a six hour wait, we were able to take her home on no more than Tylenol.

She's doing very well, just sleeping a bit more.

On the plus side, she is already at a whopping 8 lbs 9 oz (with diaper on). Which is still crazy! She's growing so well :)

As for the blog news.... I don't know if you can tell, but the posts have slowed down a bit here :) I am blogging, but I've been pouring most of my blogging time into a new blog I started
about eco-friendly living for the family :)

http://theecofriendlyfamily.blogspot.com/

I encourage you to check it out! :)

ISO/IHA - Updated Often

2009-09-28T15:14:00.007-04:00

We have two in cloth. Our daughter is in a large and our new baby girl is currently in a nb, but will of course grow into everything, so I'm interested in all sizes :)

ISO

Paypal Would love to work on Christmas, bills and diapers :)

Gifts
I need to find gifts, or gift ideas for 3 boys (5, 6 & 17) and 3 girls (1, 2 & 3).

Gift for DH (he hunts (deer/turkey, gun & bow, loves the buckeyes and is a contractor)

$10-20 item/set for a gift exchange (family thing, not person specific).

Belly Bandit
Medium : Would definitely consider other brands or even suggestions on how to DIY!

Ergo
I'd love to get one of these (or something similar) for my husband to use with our older daughter :)

Wool
Small - Large : Would love pinks.

Fitteds
Preemie & Newborn Patooshie Pants - Any color

GMs - any really, but would love the ones below
Save the Queen
Enchanted Wood
On the Vine
Rock Candy
Inked
Foiled

One size fitteds: Sbish, B4, Patooshie Pants, anything remotely similar!
No side snapping please :)

Thirsties Covers
Duos Size 1 and 2 : No Rose or Meadow (got those covered, thanks!)

BG OS Pockets
3.0 only please : Would love Zinnia, Clementine, Ribbit, Blossom, will consider all :)

BG AIOs
Small - Large (3.0 only please) : Would love Zinnia, Clementine, Ribbit, Blossom, will consider all :)

Misc. Items

Addi Turbo 12 inch Circular Knitting Needles
Yarn! I'm learning to knit :)
Baby girl shoes : All sizes nb & up :)
WAHM gifts for 5 & 6 year old boys, 4 month old, 2 & 3 year old girls.

IHA
All items come from our smoke free and pet free home.

Diaper Related - link to photos

Preemie sized & nb size proraps *3 of each* ($5/ea) (all NB sold)
XS BGs (will get pics soon) - Zinnia, Blossom, Butternut, Clementine, Grasshopper & Twilight ($10/ea)
XS SS Juicytoots
1 S Thirsties Cover (1 Raspberry) $8
Cream colored Interlock Soaker approx. 11.5 waist & 11 rise, stretches too.
2 dozen Preemie Prefolds prepped & unused
4 M Thirsties Covers (All White) ($7/ea)
Wipes Warmer

Maternity & Nursing - link to photos

Medium NWOT Old Navy Jeans
12 (Medium) NWT Gap Khaki Shorts
Medium Liz Lange Jean Shorts
Medium Liz Lange Jean Capris
Medium (says Large, fits like med.) Oh Baby by Motherhood Jean Shorts
Small (fits like Med.) Motherhood Tank w/ rhinestones that say Baby
Medium Motherhood two later black and white 3/4 sleeve top
Medium Motherhood sweater w/ matching scarf
Medium Motherhood pink velour jacket
Medium NWOT Old Navy Top
More... see pics

Baby Care - link to photos

Sleep positioner

Misc. Items

Things I can do : Click on the images for larger views!

Silhouettes : Digital, printable format
Pencil Sketches : Digital, printable format
Colored Pencil : Digital, printable format
HC/Etsy Design
Snap Service: All diaper types and items.
Custom Printable Invitations, Thank You Cards, Etc.
Make I Spy Bags
Make Doll Diapers
Personalized Crayon Rolls
Photo Editing
Embroidery - Text & Images

If you have something on my ISO list and don't see anything on my IHA list, please ask. I might have it here and be willing to let it go.

Thank you for taking the time to look It is appreciated.

Maternity Photos :)

2009-09-10T18:50:00.004-04:00

So, I've never had a chance to get photos taken during pregnancy before. My babies tend to surprise me with their timing :)

I was fortunate enough to have my husband on my butt to get some and a wonderful person to take them :)

All images are by CCD Imaging

Here are a few, the rest are here at this link

Gwyenth's Birth Story

2009-09-10T18:25:00.005-04:00

Gwyneth Elle arrived at 36 weeks exactly :)

Sunday, September 6, 2009 @ 9:32 am weighing in at a whopping 6 lbs 1.5 ounces (8 ounces bigger than even her term brother!) She's 18" long and doing great, nursing well and loving cloth :D The nurses were crazy about the diapers as well :D

As for delivery. It was great, well aside from the whole pain part :D

We went in around 1 am Sunday. I've been having contractions since early last week, and then saw my doctor Friday and was sitting at 3.5 cm. I'd had more contractions Saturday night and after water, sleeping and bathing, they didn't stop. They weren't terribly close together, but being early, we decided to go ahead in. I progressed slowly and comfortably though the night, but I was too far along for them to send me home.

At about 8:20 am my water broke. Things went fast from there.

I had a great nurse, and she helped my husband and I with positions to help relieve the pain and ease delivery. He was a HUGE help and it was amazing having him there to help me :) He was there before, but I'd never used any of these techniques before :)

They called the doctor to come in when they thought I was close to delivering, but evidently they didn't expect me to go quite so fast. Even though he lives just a few minutes from the hospital, it wasn't close enough. My contractions got on top of one another. The first, there was a slight (but controllable) urge to push. The next 2 weren't so controllable. The 4th was it! I was on my knees, backwards on the bed leaning against the back (it was upright) to help relieve some of the pressure. They wanted me to turn around before she came, but there was no stopping :) My nurse delivered and baby was crying and oh my goodness she was kicking up a storm when they were holding her. She was quite lively :)

I got to spend 2 days getting rest, changing diapers, chatting with nurses (I love those ladies!) and enjoying this little one :) Our son loves her, and came up to me and hugged me and thanked me for giving him a baby sister. Our daughter is loving her too. She keeps kissing her head when I let her anywhere near her. She does however want to point out her facial features and isn't quite gentle enough, so I've gotta watch her :D My husband is over the moon, as am I :)

It's SO good to be home :) We've been home for two full days now and it's slowly getting to normal :) The kids are still adjusting, but they're calming down and getting use to things :)

So far, so good :)

At the hospital :)

First day home :)

Little fluffy butt!

Ethan's Birth Story

2009-09-01T18:33:00.004-04:00

Ethan Nico was born at 37 weeks on January 25, 2005 at 8:51 PM

Weighing 5 lbs 9 oz, 18" inches long, 13" head

This is a c/p of the letter style story I wrote for Ethan while I was in the hospital with him :)

Dear Ethan,

This is about the day you were born. The night before I was up until 3 am! I stayed up late to get a shower. I somehow knew that you were on your way.

The next morning I spent my time cleaning the car and installing your car seat. Everyone said to slow down, you weren't due for another three weeks. I didn't listen. I had to get this all done! I finished early in the afternoon. I spent the afternoon talking to your grandmother, who was in the hospital for falling down the steps at her house (she's okay!). The last time we talked was around 6 pm. Your uncle Caleb and grandpa Greg were there visiting and asked if I'd like to go have dinner with them. I said yes.

I ordered a small steak and a baked potato. Boy, it was good :) I finished my meal and soon after felt a huge "POP". It was the strangest feeling. I didn't think much of it until I stood to go to the restroom. I felt a gush. OH MY GOSH! My water had broke. I ran to the bathroom, unsure of what to do and called your grandmother. She confirmed that yes, my water had broke and just to take my time because the hospital would have there for hours before you would be really ready to come.

A woman in the restroom seamed concerned and I let her know that my water had broke. She said "Congratulations", and I was out the door. I tied my jacket around my waits and walked to the table. As I walked by I said to Pappa and Caleb that my water had just broke. I didn't even stop, I just kept walking to the car. You should have seen their faces!

We we got in the car I called your Daddy and said that my water had broke. We all went to the hospital. On the way I begged to get my suitcase, but everyone said "NO". Probably a good thing, I was having very painful and strong contractions.

We got to the hospital and I tried to walk in. I needed a wheelchair. We were taken upstairs almost immediately and I was put into a bed. When we got there you grandma was coming over from her wing, and by some crazy chance your great aunt Jeri was there visiting her, so she came too! So many people there and able to share your first moments of life! :)

The nurse cam in and checked to see how far I was dilated. I was a whopping 6 cm. She told me that I was lucky because they can't give meds after 8 cm. She gave me an IV of fluids and checked me again. I was 8 cm!!! I cried, I was in pain, but that's okay :) You were on your way. The next thing I know I was losing more fluids and I was able to lay down. I have a few pushed for the nurse and finally the doctor made it and I gave a few more for him. I was about at the end of a set of pushed when the doctor told me to try for a couple more. I did, and there you were. It was this great pressure, and then the release of it. The doctor picked you up and laid you on my chest.

You were so amazing. I looked at you and your father. I couldn't believe how perfect you were. There you were. Ten toes, ten fingers, perfect in every way. It's a moment in time that I will never forget. All the world fell away and nothing else mattered. After the nurses left I was able to get up and look at you and I grabbed my camera and took some photos. You were so beautiful! Soon we were off to our new room.

We spent so much time just oohing and ahhing over you. It was so late and I needed some rest, but I just couldn't' sleep. I just held you most of the night and looked after you while you slept. I wasn't a bit tired. I stayed up until about 3 that morning and woke around 5 and put some make-up on. I can't believe it. I'm your Mommy. You. In all of your perfection.

I remember looking into those big beautiful eyes of yours and just crying. Crying because you were so beautiful and I knew that those amazing eyes would be the same amazing eyes that I would look into every day for the rest of my life.

I love you so much.

Always and Forever,

Your Mommy!!!

Lily's Birth Story

2009-09-01T18:33:00.002-04:00

Lilian Grace was born at 33 weeks 3 days on March 2, 2008 at 4:24 am

Weighing 4 lbs 11 oz, 16" inches long, 12" head

I woke up at about 2:20 this Sunday morning. My stomach was feeling a little off and I thought perhaps I needed to pee. So, after fighting it for a moment, I got up and went to the restroom. I sat down to pee and before I even had a chance to begin I noticed that I was leaking fluid. I should note that the day before this I had been having some light spotting and was told that it was normal and not to worry. Despite my gut feeling, I listened to my doctor and didn't go to the hospital. Okay, back to Sunday. I was leaking fluid. I freaked out. I walked out of the bathroom and told my husband that I was calling the doctor. Of course he thought I was having a paranoid pregnant moment (I hadn't taken the time to explain yet.) So I called my doctor's answering service. Much to my dismay the woman who answers was asleep!!!! It went like this:

Me: Dialing number. Phone Ringing.
Answering Service (AS): "The phone is ringing."
Me: "What?"
AS: "The phone is ringing. I'll get it."
Me: "I know, I'm calling. I need to speak to my doctor."

Well, finally the lady asked for my name and number, mumbled a little and then asked for it again. I decided that she was far to sleepy and wasn't going to be able to help. I called labor and delivery. They told me to come on in.

We left the house, my contractions were 2 minutes apart and by the time we reached the hospital they were around a minute or under. I was SO scared, so many thoughts running through my head. We arrived at the ER (We had to check in though there.), they knew I was on my way so I signed a paper and the attendant asked how far apart my contractions were and rushed me to the 3rd floor birthing center before my husband could even get back in from parking the car. So we made it upstairs and the monitors were turned on. It was 3:21 am. The nurse told me I was 6 cm, and then the Doctor checked and said I was 7cm. They gave me two meds to try to stop the contractions. It didn't work. The monitor was in the wrong place as I was having contractions and the doctor was like "It's not picking up your contractions." And I was thinking, well I'm having them! So, he walked out of the room. I told the nurse I was feeling some pressure (my first uncontrollable urge to push) She checked my cervix and went into the hall. Later I would find out that she was telling the doctor that I was 10cm PLUS 1 or 2. The doctor didn't rush in. Instead, the nurse came back. I again had another urge to push and this time is was FAR more painful and it felt like my entire body was contracting. I opened my mouth to tell the nurse that there was more pressure, but all that came out was a yell. Which I am SUPER embarrassed of btw! I could feel our baby girl crowing and I tried to fight it at first, but I knew she was coming no matter what and I should help her and keep it as stress free for her as possible. So I pushed. In that ONE HUGE push (at 4:24 am), our daughter came, quite literally, bursting out. My husband compared it to a water slide :\ lol. He did note that she was quite clean though. We heard her cry (THANK GOD!) and she was placed on my chest, my husband cut the cord a minute later and she was taken. We heard them say she was 4 lbs 11 oz and my heart was lifted just a little. Our 33 weeker was bigger than I could have hoped. She was taken off to the nursery after that and I had to wait to see her. Thankfully they let my husband go to her shortly after they took her.

Baby Girl Hearn had arrived weighting 4 lbs 11 oz, 16 inches long and a head of 12 inches. During labor they told us that she would have to be taken to a larger children's hospital because the hospital here was simply not able to take care of preemies. They put her under an oxygen hood and by the grace of God, she was fine. Her APGARs were 8 & 9. She remained under the hood until 3pm that day. She had a gavage (feeding tube) down her nose for about the first week. I was put on a every 2 hour pumping regimen and finally at about 9 days old she was off the gavage and nursing and bottle feeding full time :) She nurses VERY well btw, but we're allowing her the bottle to conserve calories.

Her lowest weight was a day or two after birth where she reached 1900 grams (4 lbs 3 oz). At 13 days old she was up to 2066 grams (4 lbs 9 oz). As of the 15th we are still in the hospital. Hopefully we'll make it home tomorrow (her two week mark). We're praying :)

*We came home March 17, 2008 with Lily back up to her birth weight of 4 lbs 11 oz :)

It's close...

2009-08-28T11:56:00.002-04:00

So, I had saw my doctor yesterday. I've been having a lot of what I thought/think are Braxton Hicks contractions. Nothing consistent though, which is good :)

I am 1-2 cm dilated and 80% effaced. We'll be 35 weeks tomorrow, so that is a big bright spot :)

The doctor said I could make it another week or so, but I'm not sure that my body agrees. I would be happy for her to stay longer, but I just don't know. Hopefully my BH are just a bit more this time around.

I tried to pre-register at the hospital earlier this week and was told to try back mid-September, even after stating that I had a history of preterm labor.

My doctor said to try again.

So, today I did. They let me go ahead and register and put a note as to why it was done before they normally do. Yay! One thing down, so much else to go.

I need my house in order and I want everything ready, but I'll resist. I have to rest and stay off my feet.

Yipes!

A week further :)

2009-08-27T08:48:00.004-04:00

So, we're 34 weeks and 4 days today.

Just over a full week further than when Lily was born..

AND!!!! Just over 2 weeks from when Ethan was born. Holy cow. Chances are we're having a baby soon :)

I can't believe it, but at the same time, I can. My body feels tired, though I know that's pregnancy, but at times it feels like it is so close. We'll see I guess :)

I have a doctor's appointment today that is more than a sit down, how ya' doing. Hopefully I'll know a little more about where we sit when I leave today. It's not until 4:15 though. Holy late in the afternoon, yes?

So, I've been on my tush a lot. It's not fun. It's boring and I feel rather useless. So, I decided that I would learn to knit. I like it. It's not as hard as I thought it would be, but I'm not that good yet either, lol.

Here is my first ever project. It's a wool soaker. The waist and legs are ribbed, the body is garter stitch.

It's not great, but it will be functional, it has a lot of stretch and it's super soft :)

My next project will be longies. I know that's a bit of a jump, but I like to learn by just jumping in. So as soon as I can find some directions that seem easy enough to follow and I can figure out what do to w/ stitch markers, I'll be good :D lol

We've made it :)

2009-08-19T11:04:00.004-04:00

We are 33 weeks and 3 days today :) I'm so happy that we have made it this far :)

That's when Lily was born. At the time of this writing, she would have been almost 7 hours old.

We hadn't even held her yet. Other than a brief moment after delivery, and then she was rushed away.

We wouldn't get to hold her until about 8:30 that evening.

16 hours.

16 horribly long hours.

Look at her now! :)

Braxton Hicks

2009-08-15T18:26:00.001-04:00

So, evidently my body has decided to really kick up the Braxton Hicks. I think it should stop :D They are uncomfortable and worrisome.

I went from like none to what seems like all of the darn time. It's just BH, but it's a bit of a pain. We are 4 days from when we had Lily. Yikes!

Let's hope this baby stays longer.

Nursery Decorating

2009-08-11T11:36:00.000-04:00

So, we will have a baby girl on the way soon. We decided that she will share a room with her sister :)

Great, lovely, and exciting.

However! The room is just 11.5 x 9.5! Thankfully, Trevor built a closet for it about a month ago, so that will help :)

We just got the crib and put it together. Thank you Mom!

I can't buy another of the crib set that we used for Lily, so I had to improvise :)

I bought two matching pink sheets (her set has pink) and I took apart her crib skirt and turned it into two. I also have a bumper, but not sure that I'll use it. We'll see. Lily doesn't use the quilt, so it's just for decoration really, at least for now.

It has a ways to go, but this is our start :) I need to make a mobile for baby and do a little more wall painting to even things out. When baby girl gets here, we'll add her pictures to the frame :)

Welcome to Lily's room :) We'll be making another one of these for the new baby, once we name her :) Probably after she arrives, lol.
Tree with flowers and butterflies (Lily loves butterflies.)
Changing table & Lily's crib and butterfly mobile. This is actually the new crib that we got for baby, BUT we decided that the one that we had would be better for baby since both of our other babies had used it :) We thought it would make it more special :)
The two cribs, dresser and photo frame with newborn photos of Lily. I'll alternate every other one with pics of baby girl after she arrives :)

Baby will get a mobile and maybe some paintings to balance things out :)
Baby's crib (the one both babies before her have used). She also gets a window view. I considered letting Lily have it, but Ethan had a window view when he was little and tore up the blinds :|

The closet that Trevor added :)

Lily's Side :) You can see her tutu peeking out up top there :)
Baby's Side... she has a few new outfits and luckily tons from her sister :) NB stuff up top, Preemie on bottom :)

And here is the bottom shelf w/ baskets. Lily is looking through her shoes here :) She *loves* shoes.

Hospital Bag Checklists!

2009-08-09T12:26:00.001-04:00

So I just finished packing up my hospital bag and a bag for baby :) I thought I would share my complete list. It's hard to find a good list and since I've been through this twice, I thought perhaps mine might be helpful to others as well :)

Not everything on here is a must, but it's what I've found most helpful for making the trip smooth and comfortable.

By the way, if you are nearing the end of your pregnancy and preparing to pack your bags, a HUGE congratulations on your pending arrival :) Many blessings to you, your baby and your family.

Before I get into the list, I want to show a picture of what it looks like all packed up and ready to go. I've seen some lists w/ comments like "OMG, are you bringing the house?", "That's going to take 3 suitcases!", etc. Yes, this list is 'long', but no, it doesn't take up much room and the nurses won't think you're moving in :) The suitcase you see here is about 23 inches tall and 14 inches wide. It's pretty small :)

Okay, here we go :)

For Labor
I have these items in an outside pocket on my suitcase for easy access.

Gown - I just don't want to wear a hospital gown for labor, this is not a necessity.
Headband - Sweat and hair down don't mix well, and a ponytail while laying down isn't comfy.
Suckers - I want sugar free and can't seem to find any, so there are none in my bag :(
Diaper - I cloth diaper and want a diaper ready to go for baby.

For Baby

Outfits - I have a couple of gowns (easy access) and a couple sleepers.
Socks/Mittens - In case you have a scratcher.
Blanket - A special blanket is always nice :)
Body Wash & Lotion - I don't use J&J products, so I am packing some Burt's Bees Baby (no harmful chemicals) in travel size bottles.
Boppy Pillow - Not a must, but I like to have mine.
Diapers - I use cloth and plan to start in the hospital. Clearly not a must for all lists.
Wetbag - This is to store dirty cloth diapers. Again, not a must for all lists.

For the Hospital Stay

Pillow - Hospital pillows are plastic (get hot) and uncomfortable. I used a cheapo white cover, but put some pretty stitching on it so that it doesn't get confused w/ the hospital covers.
Bella Band - Or other tummy holding in device. I want the extra support, but it's not a must.
Pajamas! - Nothing is better than some comfy PJs to lounge around and recover in.
Outfit - For going home or if you just feel like feeling pretty one day.
Underwear - the mesh panties are great that they provide, but you might want some to go home in.
Nursing Tanks - Even if your milk isn't 'in' you'll be nursing, so these are handy and comfy.
Nursing Bra - Again, handy and comfy.
Nursing Pads - You probably won't need these, but they're small and great if you happen to.
Socks
Toothpaste
Toothbrush - I just picked up a cheapy to toss in my bag.
Toiletpaper - I am bringing a roll. The stuff at the hospital is awful. Some people will say you don't' need this because you won't be wiping, and they're right, you won't be wiping, but you may want to dab yourself dry after using the squirt bottle. I know I do.
Shampoo & Conditioner - You'll likely want to shower. I packed some travel bottles full.
Body Wash - Travel bottle.
Puff Sponge - I am not a fan of wash cloths.
Lotion - Again, travel bottle.
Deodorant
Razor - Even if you don't shave your legs, other parts might like a freshening up.
Mirror - A little one that you can sit on your tray to put some makeup on is nice.
Makeup - You may want some, maybe not. I just tossed in some concealer, mascara, blush and powder.
Lip Balm - Yes this could go w/ makeup but chapped lips aren't fun, so I thought it was important enough to be listed alone.
Hairbands - You might want some :)
Hair Straightener - I straighten my hair and can't stand it otherwise. This is a must for me, not so much for other people.
Towel - They're towels are small and can be rough. Not a must, just a preference and it doesn't take up much room. Just don't bring white (could get confused w/ hospital laundry).
Laundry Bag - For dirties. Could use an old pillow case.
Pads - The hospital will provide some, but once the flow decreases, something smaller is more comfortable.
Extra Contacts - If you wear them.
Contact Solution - If you wear contacts.
Glasses - If you wear them or wear contacts and want them :) (I'm not sure if I'll take these or not.)

Misc. Items

Underwear/Socks for sig. other - If they're staying the night, it might be nice.
Outfit for sig. other - I didn't bring one, but some may want to.
Outfits for kids - We have two kids and it's just always a good idea to have an outfit on hand in case of accidents. Clearly not a must for everyone.
Snacks - For you, your sig. other, kids if you have them. Not a must, but nice.
Gifts - Again, these are for our kids :) I thought it would be nice to have something little for each of our kids :) Nothing big, but something special that they'll enjoy and will entertain them. Baby will be exciting, but I doubt she'll hold their interest long :)
Cash - I've got 4 ones and some change for vending machines, in case anyone wants it.
Camera - Not packed yet, as we use it often, but it will be going :)
Video Camera - Also not packed yet, as we use it often, but it will be going :)
Cell Phone Charger - If you plan on bringing your phone :)

Newborn Diapers

2009-08-02T20:32:00.000-04:00

With the baby almost here, you think I'd be more ready, but it's a start :) Enjoy the pretties.

Fitteds
Stustainablebabyish Hemp, Made by Me!!!, Nana's Bottom
Mutt, Swaddlebees (old style fit), Patooshie PantsAll-In-Ones
Bumgenius :) Pretty colors!
Covers
Thirsties Duo Size 1, 3 XS Thirsties
Fleece Cover in Preemie
Prefolds
Preemie size & a Snappi (There are more of these, not all are pictured)
More Prefolds
Newborn size & a Snappi (There are more of these, not all are pictured)
Wool
Preemie sized knit longies :) They aren't pink, but I love them because they are my only knit wool and they are beautiful!

Cleaning/Laundry Recipes

2009-07-08T09:25:00.000-04:00

Okay, so I am budget conscious and trying to be earth friendly as well.

Insert homemade cleaning supplies :) I thought I would share what I use.

First Up - Cloth Diaper Detergent
I have been using this since October 2008 with no issues. I've actually received compliments on used diapers that I have sold smelling so good and asking what I used :) That felt nice.

Here's what I do. It's cheap and I love it :)

More or less, It's: (this is not exact, since I use the larger recipe below)
1 cup washing soda
1 cup borax
1/2 cup of oxiclean

BUT.... I don't like having misc. leftovers, so I make up a batch... like this :)
It should cost $30, max.

3 Boxes Arm & Hammer Washing Soda (55 oz each)
2 Boxes 20 Mule Team Borax (76 oz each)
1 Large Tub OxiClean (96 oz)

Yes, it's a lot, but it's super cheap to make, so no biggie :) It just lasts forever. Or you can share :)

Oh and this is my wash routine:

Cold wash/rinse w/ 1 tablespoon of detergent
Hot wash/rinse w/ 1 tablespoon of detergent

DD is older now and thus pees a ton more, so I often add some vinegar to my hot wash. Maybe 1/4-1/2 a cup. Not always though.

It's worked for me so far :)

If you try this recipe, please post to let others know how it works for you :)

Cleaning Up Stained Kids' Clothes

2009-07-08T09:15:00.000-04:00

I meant to post this last week, but forgot, until I used this method again yesterday.

So, we have a baby girl on the way.

I dug through Lily's old baby clothes and pulled out everything preemie or newborn sized. Thought I'd toss them in the wash and hand them up.

Well, that would have been easy enough if half of them didn't come out with stains that weren't there when I put them away!!! Yipes!!!

After some Googling, I found that stains develop from proteins left in the clothes from drool and misc. things. It can be hard to get rid of, and I found that many people had no luck at all getting rid of it. So I put my cloth diaper knowledge to work. I thought I'd give the sun a shot :)

I have a wash tub in my laundry area, so I filled it about half full of HOT HOT HOT water and added 2 or 3 massive scoops of Oxiclean. I mean the big green scoop that it comes with. I put on my rubber gloves and dissolved the Oxiclean in the water. I then added every piece of stained clothing, being sure to get each saturated. My objective was not to have it be a big pool of water, but just enough to get everything sopping and just a little left over. Perfect!

I let it soak overnight.

The next morning I grabbed a pail and transferred each sopping piece to the washing machine. I added a normal amount of detergent and did a warm wash.

Then, here comes the rest of the magic. I hung them all out to dry in the sunshine.

Voila! Every stain is gone. They all look like new! I couldn't believe it. Some of the stains were God awful too. I had a couple of outfits that were headed for the trash, but I thought I'd toss them in and give them a chance. They look like new too. Wow, just wow. Thank you oxygen action and sunshine, you saved me, yet again :)

Sorry Blog

2009-07-08T09:00:00.000-04:00

Since I feel no need to bother actual people with this junk, I'll bother you.

F*** F*** F***

:|

I'm so freaking tired :( Not only am I trying to grow a baby and keep said baby in me, my poor other baby (daughter) is sick :( I've been up with her in the middle of the night two nights in a row to give her a bath to help her feel better because of this random fever she has :( AND she's getting up early on top of it. Cranky as all heck when she doesn't get what she wants, but thankfully fine otherwise.

My son, who is fantastic usually, doesn't want to listen to a gosh darn word I say. I can tell him to do things until I'm blue in the face, but he knows I can't (am not ALLOWED!!!) to pick him up and cart him off to his room if he's not listening. :| I feel as though he is taking full advantage and I am frustrated by this to no end. Not to mention the crying. He knows I can stand it, so he'll scream like a baby. Inevitably when my other baby is taking a break from screaming at me.

UGH!!! WTF is wrong with my kids??? Who took my real ones and when well they return??? I miss my well behaved babies. *cries*

Okay, so they're mostly good, but still. On top of no sleep, God awful heartburn, financial worries, pregnancy worries, whatever else there is that my brain can't remember..... ugh..... :( I want some sleep. I want some time to not think. I know it's futile. I know it won't happen. I don't really want it to happen, and I know I can get through it all. I just need to get it out. Feel like it went somewhere anyhow. I miss being easy going. I feel like an grouchy old biddy.

*sigh*

Thankfully I have a place to get this all out and spare the children that I truly do adore and the husband that I do as well.

They are wonderful and they do so much to make me smile and laugh. I am very thankful for them too.

Oh and a piece of good news :)

We had an ultrasound yesterday and my cervix grew. I did not know that could happen. I was just praying that it didn't shorten anymore. I'm back up to 3 cm, which is normal and great. Baby is weighing in at an estimated 2 lbs 5 oz. That's half of Lily's birth weight!

Thank God.

I've been trying to take it easy physically, so I'll continue to do so and perhaps that will keep this baby until she's ready to meet us.

Thank you blog, once again, for being here for me to shed some emotion.

At least I ended on a positive note this time :)

I don't want to forget or pass by all that truly is positive. There is so much of it.

Okay, so I need to post... baby worries

2009-06-29T09:13:00.000-04:00

So, I'm on shots to prevent preterm delivery and they've been measuring my cervix.

I'm so overly worried :( It just seems that the closer I get to 33 wks (when I delivered DD) the more worried I get.

For some reason 28 weeks is the one that really gets me. I don't know why and I don't want to say that's when I think things will happen, because I don't want them to. For some reason I'm finding myself increasingly paranoid about things. Little things. Anything that could even remotely be considered a sign of preterm labor.

*sigh*

I know this seems nuts, which is why I'm writing it here instead of bothering anyone with this nonsense.

I was doing so well. Taking things in stride. This pregnancy really is going well. No spotting like my other two. No contractions (I don't think). Nothing. Yet I worry.

I see the doctor again in just over a week (just under two weeks from my last appointment), so that's good.

Anyhow. I just needed to get this out. Thanks for being here blog :)

Sunday Family Fun :)

2009-05-18T15:19:00.001-04:00

So yesterday my sweet husband decided we'd all go do something fun, as a family, away from home :) YAY!

We packed in the car and drove about an hour and half to Logan, Ohio. Home of Old Man's Cave :)

Here is what we did. Enjoy!

It's a girl!!!

2009-05-14T20:30:00.000-04:00

We had our doctor's appointment and ultrasound today :)

Baby measured 20w3d (at just 19w4d, so a full week ahead!).
Heartbeat was a strong 160 :)
She looks perfect :) And as an amazing bonus, we got to watch her move around and play for a good 10 minutes!

She was playing her face and she had a few adorably random hiccup type motions. At one point she stretched her right arm down and appeared to be grabbing at her toes :) It was the most amazing thing I think we've ever seen :) A special thanks to our sweet ultrasound lady! :)

Here she is :)

Today

2009-05-09T21:19:00.000-04:00

Today my son gave me the most beautifully sweet smile and told me that I made him so very very happy. All because I let him have "square cheese". It's a Kraft single.

It warmed my heart.

Let's hope that it's as easy to make him this happy when he's 17 :)

Baby Dreams

2009-05-08T09:26:00.000-04:00

So I keep having these dreams about Baby.

I don't remember the first one that well, I think it was pretty simple, but I did have a boy.

I had another. A boy again, but this time he was born at just 34 weeks (not great, but one better than Lily!)

Last night I had another. I had twins! A boy and a girl. I was so happy. Until I woke up this morning. It makes me miss the one that could have been. Lily's other half. Even remembering my dream puts a smile on my face. That's how happy I was in my dream. I delivered the boy first and then the other needed a helping hand. I was prepared for the worst and out comes a beautiful crying baby girl. I held them both. One on each arm. I remember being so excited because we didn't know what the gender was. *sigh* Maybe someday right? Or perhaps the one on the way is here so soon because it knew it was needed and wanted.

We did get pregnant on the first try after all. Still can't believe that one!

:) I can't wait until next Thursday. We get to find out what we're having. What I'm carrying. Who this little person might be :)

Yay!

Oh and I had another shot yesterday. HB was 162 :) Go baby go!

I Voted Today :)

2009-05-05T16:25:00.000-04:00

There was just one item, our local school levy :) I felt the need to get out and vote. I liked that :)

And I got a nifty sticker :)

Produce Cheat Sheet

2009-04-30T11:01:00.000-04:00

So, I like organic food, but it's not always the cheapest route. I found a handy list that tells you which items to avoid and which are okay to puchase non-organic. I made a little cheat sheet to print out and keep in my purse and thought I'd share it with anyone who might find it useful :)

I also included what the different PLU codes mean. Not all produce is labeled well and I thought it would be helpful when I go shopping :)

Just click on this and print this as a full page, fit to size :) Enjoy :)

Product Testing :)

2009-04-29T08:10:00.000-04:00

So, I placed an order with drugstore.com last week and Monday, I got a box full of goodies. For an Earth Day promotion, they were giving away a Seventh Generation reusable shopping bag full of natural and/or organic goodies. How could I resist?

I've decided that since I get to try all of the goodies, I should let someone else know how I like them :) I got a lot of goodies and as I get to them, I'll post :) I hope you like this.

First Up! Yes to Carrots Organic Lip Butter

I really, really, really like this stuff. I've been using it for a couple of days now and it is so silky smooth and check out this ingredients list:

Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Cera Alba (Beeswax)*, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Flavor, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter)*, Limonene*,Tocopherol, Citral*, Linalool*, Geraniol*, Citronellol*, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis(Orange) Peel Extract*, Cucumis Melo Cantalupensis (Melon) Seed Extract*, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Extract*, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract*, Eugenol*. *Organic

It's really great because most lip balms don't last long on my lips for some reason and I applied this, ran around the house, left and realized that 'wow, my lips are still so soft'. This is great stuff and while I'm reviewing a freebie, I will be buying this product when it's gone!

Rating:

Next up is L 'A' RABAR - Key Lime Pie Flavored Fruit and Nut Bar

I was excited to try this because I do love my fruit and nut bars. However, I have to say that I did not like this. It had an awful texture. It was mooshy and way too moist for my taste. The flavor was okay, thought I'm not a fan of this particular flavor, for what it was, it was okay. I really think I would have enjoyed it more had it not been so wet and verging on slimy :\

I ended up giving the rest to my 4 year old, because he wants whatever Mommy has.

Maybe I'll get a chance to try a different flavor at some point, but that wasn't really the problem. It was all about texture for me on this one.

Rating:

Finally, we have the Zone Perfect Nutrition Bar - Dark Chocolate Cookies N' Creme

Overall I liked this. Admittedly, I'm not a nutrition bar eater, but I've tried a few :) Biting into this one reminded me of a piece of chocolate cake as far as flavor went. I really liked it. It had a mostly nice texture, and only a hint of vitamin flavor. Compared to most, this was really good. The only thing I would say is that it could be a bit more moist. There were bits of 'cookie' inside and nothing to really balance out that crunchiness :)

Rating:

Colgate Wisp

2009-04-28T08:44:00.000-04:00

Okay, so it's not eco-friendly, but I got it for free with my drugstore.com purchase and I had to try it out.

I love it... I'm bad, I know, but I'm a sucker for clean teeth, so yea. Okay, here it is:
Okay, so I opened up my little single package. I used the cute little pick on the bottom. It's gentle and I liked the angle of the curve :)

Once I began to brush, I got a bit of flavor from what I think it's basically a gel breath mint. Think: a tiny balled up Listerine Breath Strip. Okay, so anyhow, the brush is made up of tiny little rubbery bristles. They are gentle and work well.

I was left with a very clean feeling mouth, smooth teeth and nice breath :)

I really think these would be PERFECT for dates. I know, as a mom, I would feel much sexier out with my husband, if after dinner, I could run to the restroom and freshen up :) Wash my hands, dab a new dot of perfume, do a quick brush, gloss and go!

Yes. I think I'm in love with this non-eco-friendly product. Health is important though, right?

Rating:

16 weeks and counting

2009-04-23T18:05:00.000-04:00

So I had my appointment today. The baby sounds great. Heartbeat was 148. I had my first shot. It wasn't as bad as I'd expected, though I did get a burning sensation about an hour later and that was not comfortable at all. Think, hot match head on skin. Ouch! Thankfully it hasn't lasted long. Though I'm only a few ours out, so we'll see :)

I also had blood work today, which I didn't know about, so that was fun. :|

I have an ultrasound in 3 weeks on May 14th :) So that's really exciting and I asked the doctor about the possibility of having my cervical length checked at ultrasounds, since we don't know why I went into labor so early last time, and he added it to my chart. That makes me feel a ton better to know that they'll be on the lookout for another possible sign :)

Anyhow. Good appointment :)

Eeep

2009-04-22T15:50:00.001-04:00

So, tomorrow is my next prenatal appointment. I'm about 16 1/2 weeks at this point. I'm really excited to hear the baby again.

I am crazy nervous though.

Lily was born at just 33 weeks and 3 days, so prematurity is a very real concern. At my last appointment, I was told that I'd start 17P shots (progesterone) to help prevent another premature birth.

I'm a little freaked out by needles and the idea of synthetic hormones isn't pleasing either. I do know that I don't want another baby to go through what Lily went through. We were very blessed that she was very healthy and we were home after a 15 day hospital stay.

Anyhow. I'm trying to get myself mentally prepared I guess :)

It's scary being labeled "high risk" when it pertains to what you love most in the world.

Fast Food Cheat Sheet

2009-04-20T11:39:00.000-04:00

I don't eat fast food often, but sometimes we just don't have time to get home in time for dinner. I've made this up to help me and I thought maybe it'd be nice for someone else too. These might not be the things I 'want' on the menu, but at least I won't feel awful later :)

Arby’s
Roast Beef
Hot Ham n’ Cheese
Grilled Chicken Breast Fillet Sandwich – No Mayo
Martha’s Vineyard Salad – Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressing

Burker King
Tendergrill Chicken Garden Salad – Light Italian or Fat Free Ranch
Tendergrill Chicken Sandwich – No Mayo
Whopper JR – No Mayo
Onion Rings
Side Garden Salad
Apple Fries – No Caramel Sauce
Egg & Cheese Croissan’wich
Hamburger

Chick-fil-A
Chargrilled Chicken Sandwiches
Salads

Chinese
Chicken with Mushrooms
Beef and Broccoli
Black Pepper Chicken

Hardees/Carl Jr.
Charbroiled BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Hamburger
Mashed Potatoes

KFC
Corn on the Cob
Green Beans
Mashed Potatoes & Gravy
Grilled Chicken

McDonald’s
Hamburger
Salads w/ or w/out Grilled Chicken – Low Fat Balsamic Vinaigrette
Apple Dippers
Quarter Pounter w/out Cheese – No Mayo
Egg McMuffin

Wendy’s
Chili
Grilled Chicken – No Mayo (Try BBQ, Honey Mustard or Ketchup)

I keep thinking

2009-04-14T08:20:00.001-04:00

I keep thinking that I want to do something. I want to do something that makes a difference. Not a little difference. Not like using my cloth bags at the store, or recycling, or whatever. I want to do something for people. Personally for people. I just don't know who or what or why or how.

I don't have money, so I can't exactly donate finances or things. I am low on time, or at least low on time away from the house. What on earth can I do? What can I do from home (or at least mostly) while taking care of my two angels and a third on the way?

I really feel drawn. I feel a need to do something. I am just clueless as to what.

I keep waiting, watching... listening. Something will come. Right?

Hot German Potato Salad

2009-04-12T10:24:00.001-04:00

Okay, I LOVE this recipe. This is my Easter dish this year. Enjoy!

I stumbled upon a dish like this and loved it and could NOT find a recipe (the maker was unknown). All I had were my taste buds and some ingredients that I remembered. I scoured the internet looking for a recipe and found a few that looked like they might be distant relatives. After some trial and error I ended up with my own recipe. I love it. It's perfect and easy and so yummy.

Here is my beloved,

Hot German Potato Salad

Ingredients:

• 5 lbs Red Potatoes, cubed
• 1 lb bacon
• 1 med-large onion sliced into strips
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbs chopped fresh parsley (add to potatoes w/ kielbasa, before adding sauce mix)
• 1 kielbasa (or 3 brats if in a pinch)

Instructions:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until tender but still firm, about 20 minutes. Drain.

Place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain, crumble and set aside, reserving drippings.

Saute onions in bacon drippings until they are golden-brown.

Add kielbasa and parsley to potatoes.

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and pepper. Add to the sauteed onions and cook and stir until bubbly, then remove from heat. Stir in water and vinegar, then return to the stove and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Boil and stir for one minute. Carefully stir in bacon. Poor over potatoes and kielbasa. Carefully toss/stir to coat. Heat through.

For better flavor, pour the pot into a crock pot and set to ‘warm’ for a few hours before serving. Enjoy!

So, We're Pregnant

2009-04-07T09:06:00.000-04:00

Yea, it's been a while, but I realized that I've never fully put it all out there. So here goes!

We're Pregnant!!!

We got a faiiiiiiiiiint line on January 27th. I'm talking sooooo faint :) See?

Anyhow, I took about 7 or 8 more test over the next 30 hours or so... Each become ever so slightly darker. Finally, close to 9 pm on the 28th, I took a digital :)

So our journey began :) Again :) This makes 3!

On February 12, we had our first ultrasound :) The heartbeat was just 90 BPM, so early at just 5w5d (measured). It's not much to see on ultrasound, but that little heartbeat gave so much relief and joy :)

Just over two weeks after this ultrasound, I was having some spotting (2.28.09). It was pretty persistent and got me worried, so we made a trip the ER (on the day of Lily's birthday party, of all days).

Thankfully once we were seen, they ran some blood work, everything looked good, and then they did an ultrasound. Unfortunately, since this was for an emergency, I got no pictures of our little one :( BUT, I was able to see that everything was fine, no visible sign of why I was spotting. Nothing. The heartbeat was a very strong 167 and baby was measuring in at 8w1d :)

On April 1st, I finally had my first appointment with my doctor. The baby's HB was a great 156 :) I did find out that I have to have weekly shots of progesterone, starting at 16 weeks and going through 35 weeks. I was told that this could help reduce the odds of another premature birth :) I'm not crazy about the idea of shots, but I'll take a healthy baby :)

Well, that's it for now. We're all caught up :)

Complaining just to get it out.

2009-04-04T13:25:00.000-04:00

So we're pregnant. I've just hit the 2nd tri and over the last week my tummy has bumped and nothing fits. My pants are tight at the zipper. It's uncomfortable. I have a couple larger pairs, so I put them on. They just want to fall down. There's nothing like that "gotta continually pull my freaking pants up" feeling. I'm trying the rubber band trick. Yea. Super comfy to try to sit with your zipper open and a hair band holding the button and hole. Not to mention they make shirts so dang short wasted, that I only have a couple that BARELY cover up the area. If I go out in public, God forbid, I have to be careful to keep covered up. My maternity pants from the last two are still too big and look ridiculous on.

Of course my husband thinks it's no big deal. "Why don't you just wear a jacket to cover it up?" he innocently says. While the thought of looking like a freaking hobo in public sends me into an emotional tailspin of frustration and tears. Not to mention the thought that the crappy jacket I own would look better than how I am dressed, oy! I know he means well and that he's a man and simple can't understand. Hell, I don't fully understand. I just know that I feel like I look like total crap and I just LOVE not having anything that fits properly. And I just love that I have no other choice but to head out into public and pray that I can be invisible just long enough to gather what I need and get home.

I know this all seems silly and trivial. That's why I'm posting it here. I see no need to bother anyone with this senseless drivel. I just needed to get some frustration out.

Thanks for being here blog.

Diaper Reviews

2009-04-02T10:34:00.001-04:00

Diapers

A few of these have links to them because they are company specific. There are a few store links at the bottom of the page where you can find the rest of these diapers :)

GMD Prefolds - I have a dozen of these. They are SUPER reliable and work very well. I don’t think you can go wrong with a dozen or so of these added to any stash.

Thirsties Fab Fitteds - I liked these. I wasn’t overly impressed though. They were very easy to use. Very convenient, but not crazy absorbent.

Thirsties AIOs - I loved how trim these were. However, I had leaking issues at different times with these. They’d leak at the legs. Not all of the diapers did it, and not all of the time. It didn’t seam to have any rhyme or reason.

BumGenius AIOs - I LOVE these! I don’t think you can get anything easier or more reliable. I haven’t tried these at nights (the stuffables), so I can’t speak to that, but I love these diapers. They are super easy to use and great for husbands, baby sitters, mothers-in-law, etc!

BumGenius OS – These are my nighttime solution. I love them. They fit well and just work. I have found that sticking the tabs together (to each other, not the laundry tabs) during wash/dry keeps them from curling. No complaints here!

BumGenius Organics OS AIO - I have some of these and want to love them, but I’m on the fence. They fit well, are very trim and I love that they are a natural fiber against baby’s skin. However, they seem to get soaked quickly, which irritates my daughter’s bum. I’m going to stick it out a bit longer and see if I can find the love for these ones.

BumGenius Bamboo Fitteds - I have tried these. They fit well, work okay, but like the Thirsties, I was underwhelmed with their absorbency.

FuzziBunz Pockets – I tried one of the older style ones (pointed wings, not squared). I loved it. I did get rid of it, but only because it was the only one I my stash. It was a good diaper. Pretty trim. No complaints.

Bamboozles – I liked this diaper. It could have offered a bit more in the soaker region, but still works well w/out it.

Baby Green OS Fitted – These are nice, trim and fit well. I’m not crazy about the snap set up on these though. As far as performance, they worked very well. No complaints on that end.

Little Comet Tails OS Fitted – Mine was made by The Funky Fanny. I love this fitted. It fits my daughter very well and I just love it.

Sun Seedlings AIO – I’ve only used one, but I liked it very well. It fit well, was well made and washed well.

Lucy’s Hope Chest AIO – Cute diaper, great fit, well made and wonderful snap in soaker.

Starbunz Pocket Diaper – These are so cute and work crazy well!

Covers

Thirsties – These fit and work great.

Other Diaper Stuff

FooFoo Hemp Inserts – LOVE! They are absorbent and thin. I have been using just one during the day in my OS BumGenius and only two at night, both with great success.

Bamboo/Zorb Inserts – Love again! They add a great boost to any diaper. They are relatively thin and very absorbent.

Snappi Fasteners – LOVE! Period.

Where to buy new?

There are so many sites to buy new diapers. These are just a few that I've either used, or know of well enough to promote :)

Diapers.com - Use code PNMOMMY and you'll get a $10 discount and free shipping on your first order of $49 or more. They have a limited cloth selection, but the discount is well worth while!

Modern Diapers

Bebeology

Abby's Lane

Thirsties Outlet - You can find great deals on Thirsties products here, it's hit or miss, but a great buy!

Cotton Babies - Huge selection here, and you can also find 2nd quality BumGenius diapers here at wonderfully discounted prices.

Where to buy used?

Diaper Swappers - This is a forum/chat site that has forums where ladies can post what they have for sale. It's a lot to look at, but really pretty simple to use. Just find what you're looking for and post that you are interested, or send the person a private message. You will need to sign up (free) to post and send messages.

Craiglist - You can try your local Craistlist or even other areas, and maybe find someone willing to ship to you.

Diaper Pin - Again, this is a forum based site. You will need to sign up (free). This site also offers diaper reviews.

Spinach Lasagna

2009-03-30T14:39:00.000-04:00

When I met DH, he told me that he'd have to make his spinach lasagna for me. I think I wanted to throw up a little, but smiled and nodded because I was smitten. The day came and he made it. I tried it and was IN LOVE! It's truly fantastic and super easy to make :) For your pleasure, my DH's spinach lasagna :)

Spinach Lasagna

Ingredients:

• ½ lb lasagna noodles
• 1 lb ricotta
• 1 c Monterey Jack
• parsley, fresh
• ½ c grated parmesan
• 20 oz. frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• Sauce

Instructions:

Cover bottom of lasagna pan with 1/3 of the sauce. Arrange layer of uncooked noodles on bottom. Cover with second 1/3 of the sauce. Combine ricotta, parmesan and spinach and spoon ½ of the mixture over the noodles. Put a second layer of noodles over the cheese mixture, then the rest of the cheese mixture. Cover with the remaining sauce. Top with the Monterey Jack. Cover with foil, domed so that the cheese doesn’t stick to the top.

Bake 45 Minutes at 375 degrees.

Remove foil and bake 20 minutes more.

Allow to set for ½ hour before cutting to serve.

Cucumber Salad

2009-03-30T14:38:00.002-04:00

Don't let the onions fool you. This stuff is great :) It's my mom's recipe and I just love it.

Cucumber Salad

Ingredients:

3-4 medium cucumbers sliced and pealed
1 sweet onion sliced thin
2/3 cup creamy salad dressing (such as Miracle Whip™)
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon celery seed
1/4 cup milk

Instructions:

Whisk together the salad dressing, vegetable oil, sugar, vinegar, salt, pepper, milk and celery seed in a medium bowl; blend thoroughly. Pour dressing mixture over cucumbers and onion; toss to coat. Chill at least 4 hours before serving.

Note: you can add/subtract ingredient amounts to taste :)

Lemon – Pepper Chicken

2009-03-30T14:38:00.001-04:00

Okay, I love this dish. I learned how to make this in college and finally put it to paper about a year ago. The only problem here is finding the dressing. I use to buy Kroger brand Parmesan and Pepper. They discontinued it. Boo! Then I used Marzetti Asiago Peppercorn. They stopped selling it here, and it's a little spicy, so whatever. I have since found a perfect combo. It takes minimal work and tastes great.

1 bottle of Kraft Three Cheese Ranch, 1 bottle of Kraft Peppercorn Ranch - poor them out in a bowl, mix and then return to bottles, voila! You have two bottles of dressing that is perfect for this dish. Thank heavens for ingenuity!

If you can find it:
Parmesan Peppercorn or some other cheese and peppercorn dressing will work. I do not recommend using only Peppercorn Ranch. I've tried it and it's just not as good. It will work in a pinch though.

Lemon – Pepper Chicken

Ingredients:

2-3 Chicken Breast cut into strips or bite sized chunks
1 tbs Olive Oil
2 tbs Lemon Pepper Seasoning (McCormick’s California Style)
¼ c Lemon Juice
½ -1 lb Extra Wide Egg Noodles (Just however many you need, I like to use the whole lb and save leftovers for lunch the next day.
1 bottle Cheese & Peppercorn Dressing as mentioned above.

Instructions:

I like to get my dressing out first thing, to let it warm up a bit, so that it's easy to pour :)

Cut up the Chicken Breasts as you prefer. Pour the Olive Oil in the skillet and add your chicken. Add the Lemon Juice and Lemon Pepper Seasoning. Use a spatula to mix it around a bit.

Put water in a pot and add the noodles. Put the water on high and the chicken on med to med-high heat, depending on how it’s cooking. If you feel that you’re running out of fluids on the chicken you can add more lemon juice if you like and cover the skillet.

Cook my noodles slightly al dente. Once the noodles are done, drain them and place a bed of noodles on plates. Place the fully cooked chicken atop the noodles and drizzle the Parmesan and Pepper Dressing over the entire dish. Enjoy!

Ham and Potato Soup

2009-03-30T14:37:00.000-04:00

This is not my own recipe, but it is fantastic, so I'm posting it as a recommendation.

Ham and Potato Soup

Ingredients:

3 1/2 cups peeled and diced potatoes
1/3 cup diced celery
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
3/4 cup diced cooked ham
3 1/4 cups water
2 tablespoons chicken bouillon granules
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1 teaspoon ground white or black pepper, or to taste
5 tablespoons butter
5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk

Instructions:

Combine the potatoes, celery, onion, ham and water in a stockpot. Bring to a boil, cook over medium heat until potatoes are tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir in the chicken bouillon, salt and pepper.

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Whisk in flour with a fork, and cook, stirring constantly until thick, about 1 minute. Slowly stir in milk as not to allow lumps to form until all of the milk has been added. Continue stirring over medium-low heat until thick, 4 to 5 minutes.

Stir the milk mixture into the stockpot, and cook soup until heated through. Serve immediately.

Rating System

2009-03-29T09:09:00.000-04:00

So I've made a rating system for when I do reviews :)

I've got a recycle rating system for natural and/or organic products.

I've got a heart for products that aren't eco-freindly, but I tried them anyways.

Must See Video

2009-02-20T08:01:00.000-05:00

Here's a fantastic video, that everyone should see. It hits the proverbial nail on the head :)

Click the quote!

"We live in an amazing, amazing world, and it's wasted on the crappiest generation of just spoiled idiots that don't care."

Nothing like the good old generation of "owe me" and "I'm entitled."

Hate to break it to you, but you aren't entitled to anything but life and death. Deal with it!

Any chance this is how we ended up in a ~~country~~ WORLD wide financial crisis... Hmmmmm....

ding.........ding............ding...........ding

Diaper Stash

2009-01-28T09:56:00.000-05:00

I thought I'd finally get some pics of my whole stash. The only thing missing here is one Raspberry Thirsties Cover that DD is wearing and a pink BG OS Organic that's on it's way.

12 Brown Edge GMD Prefolds, 4 White Thirsties Covers

Microfiber Inserts, Snappis, 4 Funky Fanny OBV & Zorb doublers, Starbunz Pocket, Fitted made from my pattern, Paddle & Quack large wetbag & wipes wetbag

Bamboozle, 2 Baby Greens Fitteds, BG Fitted, Funky Fanny One-Size OBV & Zorb, Random but cute fitted :)

12 BG OS (9-3.0, 3-2.0)

6 BG OS AIO Organics

7 BG AIOs (1 Med)

15 Thirstoes AIOs

1 Pair of Funky Fanny wool interlock longies, 2 Wool-Lee's recycled wool longis & 2 Wool-Lee's recycled wool soakers

The whole shebang!

What SAHMs do.

2009-01-20T22:36:00.000-05:00

For future reference :)

How I love a good deal.

2009-01-10T12:32:00.000-05:00

So, every Jan-Feb and Aug-Sept I do the kid's clothes shopping. I buy season end clearances for the next year and boy does it pay off.

I went the other day to Old Navy, Gap, Carters, Osh Kosh, The Children's Place, Target and TJ Maxx.

I got 23 shirts, 5 pairs of pants/bibs, 5 dresses (including 2 special occasion), 2 jackets & 1 one piece outfit.

Retail Pricing $683.67
Sale Priced $213.43

Total Savings $470.24

I saved about 70% overall. I got some adorable clothes and I could not be happier :)

Deer Hunting

2008-12-21T07:40:00.000-05:00

So, I went hunting with Trevor yesterday. We saw so many deer. It was truly a blessed day for it. On the way over to the hunting property, I told him that I felt it. I said, "Mark my words. We're coming home with a deer today."

We pulled up the property and there were 3 does watching us. It was so cute! They kind of peaked at us and one took a few steps toward us. She was bobbing her head a little and just kind of checking us out. To the left of them were a few little bucks in the neighbor's yard. They're know that they are safe there and so they were very close to us. It was very cool. Out back of the house you could see another buck with a small rack, but his body was very nice. Very nice deer. Anyhow, as we looked around, a large field off and to our right there were 3 or 4 does. We weren't going there direction and so as we walked down the field, they seemed curious and didn't seem bothered until my husband realized that he'd forgotten his stool and had to walk back to the truck. Evidently they thought some trickery was going on and casually made their way out of the field and through the woods.

Fast forward to our blind. We'd been sitting all of maybe 30 minutes when two does come down off of a hill, through the woods and into the field ahead of us. I'm new at hunting, so the gun we brought doesn't shoot all that far. I wouldn't take a shot over 100 yds. So these two does were slightly out of range. Maybe 150 yards. Anyhow. They make their way down into the field, but keep going to our left and keeping just out of range. The smaller of the two evidently saw a buddy because she looked up and took off running to this other deer that we could only barely see movement from in the woods far out and to our left. It was like an old friend she hadn't seen in a while. It was neat to watch. A few hours went by, these does so far down and out of range when Trevor noticed a slew of them right behind us! There were seven deer I think. 2 does, a small buck and the rest were yearlings. The little buck had a fairly nice rack, but you could tell that he was very young by his body. He'll be something if he makes it through a few seasons :) He's off to a great start. Anyhow, they were moving through too quickly and there was no shot that seemed secure enough. They passed and walked down the creek away from us, and towards where we park.

Not long after, we look down the field and the 3 does that have been out of range for so long were spooked by something. We'll never know, but they took off, tails flying. Back behind us again three bucks popped out. Out of range, but fun to watch. There was a spike, a 4 or 6 point that had lost half of his rack, so now only had 2 or 3 points and a fairly nice 6 or 8 point. They rummaged around down field for a bit and then were gone.

We waited for a little while and suddenly found ourselves with two pretty does right in front of us. They came down this road that we had hoped deer would funnel down though. The larger doe came down though the field right at us. Slowly eating and stepping closer and closer. She was so beautiful and it was so amazing watching the two of them. I thanked God and after about 10 minutes, Trevor had a perfect shot. He asked if I was ready and if I could see her. More on this in a moment. Anyhow, I said yes and waited. A shot rang out and she dropped there where she stood. It was perfect. She went quickly and I felt so thankful. I kissed my husband and told him how proud of him I was and we waited, gathered our things and then stepped out to see her. We had to wave off another doe who had come into the field. I didn't want her coming up on the doe we had shot.

Quickly, a side note. I have a hunting permit, but I've never been present when a deer has been harvested and really wanted to see it in real life before doing it myself. I'm glad I did, because it was not what I expected :)

Back to the doe! We came up on her and she was perfect. I asked if I could touch her and kind of knelt down and rubbed her side. It felt so right and natural. In that moment, I was thankful for the experience with my husband, the meat that would be going into our freezer, the life of that deer, to God for placing us there on that day. It was just an amazing experience.

And here she is :)

Special Mention :) Our son pulled her up on the chain hoist all by himself. Trevor said that he would not let him help :) lol

More Crayon Rolls :)

2008-12-17T11:43:00.000-05:00

So, I am finally done with making all of my crayon rolls!!! Here are the last two :) These are for our niece and nephew :)

Holiday Photos

2008-12-16T18:25:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I wanted to go to Sears. My husband wanted photos in our own home. Here's what we ended up with :) (I lost btw!)

Take one:

And after much much much.... everything.

Happy Holidays!!!

My Stash :)

2008-12-16T16:53:00.001-05:00

I've been buying up diapers in need of repair and here's what I've ended up with :)

This is my set up :)

1 Dozen GMD bleached brown edge PFs & 4 Thirsties Covers (Not all are pictured).

Top: Fitted, 2 Pocket Fitteds
Middle: Starbunz given to me by a SUPER sweet mama, OS Pocket Fitted
Bottom: 3 Fitteds
Everything but the Starbunz was made by me :)

Here are my beloved OS BGs :)
6 White, 2 Yellow with Snaps, 1 Pink with Snaps, 1 Green
Everything but the whites are fixer uppers.

Last, but not least are my BG AIOs. These are all large.
6 Pink with Snaps, 2 Pink, 1 White with Snaps :)
All of these are fixer uppers :)

Crayon Rolls!

2008-12-16T16:38:00.000-05:00

So, I decided to make the kids crayon rolls. Here are Ethan and Lily's :) I have 2 more to make.

Here's a tutorial, if you'd like to make your own. This will at least give you a good idea :) I don't know if it helps, but I did not enjoy adding the ric rac at all. Blah! Plus, kids don't care and they look fine without it too! :)

Web Pages & Layouts!

2008-12-12T09:36:00.001-05:00

So, I made my first ever Hyena Cart layout and am so proud :)

Here it is!

Since, I'm posting this, I thought I'd post another page that I did for my husband's general contracting company :)

Update 1.6.09! I've since done another HC design and here it is :)

And another :) 3.28.09

Christmas Shopping and Green Gifts, Mostly

2008-12-12T08:16:00.000-05:00

So, I went shopping with my mom the other day to get some things for the kids. I picked up this:

And she came away with these, and a couple others that I can't remember (read: can't post because my super smart dear son is attached to my hip!)

First up is a basketball. She didn't get a basketball, but I can't find an image of the football she bought. It looks just like this and is made from recycled materials! She also bought DS a Spider-man play set (the ones that are look more appropriate for a 4 year old, not the scary ones), walkie talkies and I forget what else.

For my darling daughter she got a Water Baby, not EF, but there was no budging on this. She also picked up an Organic Cotton Doll and Wooden Blocks Wagon :) Yay!

Deer Season

2008-12-02T14:48:00.001-05:00

So, I went deer hunting for the first time, with a gun. I've gone before with my husband, but never all day and never with the possibility of me harvesting a deer. It was very cold and I didn't get a deer, but it was fun. Mostly it was fun spending the entire day, alone with my husband. We didn't see many deer until we walked out of the woods to leave at sunset. As we came down off of the hill we were on, we saw a single yearling doe in the field below us. I crept around and behind her on the wood line were several others. All does. I had no intention of taking a doe, but I wanted a good look, so I crept around a little more and stood still as the yearling looked around and after several minutes passed, her tail went up, as if to signal that all was safe, and six more does came out across the field with her and then they all continued on their way. It was really amazing to be that close to them, watching nature and us not moving a muscle so that we didn't scare them. They were so beautiful and playful with one another. It really made the day worth it :) I look forward to going again soon.

Bean Bag - Matching Game

2008-11-23T16:28:00.000-05:00

A lady on Diaper Swappers posted this. She made these and embroidered the bags. They are SO cute. However, I don't have an embroidery machine and I really can't afford to be buying gifts (Sorry dead horse), so I made some out of felt I had on hand and some time with aplique.

You can't see the stitching well in the photos. The socks have stitching on the tops, heels and toes. Also pictured are suns, deer (bucks!), trees and spiders. Here they are :)

Made another gift :)

2008-11-22T16:50:00.000-05:00

This one is for Lily. It's a sock baby doll :)

her hat :)

So that I don't forget...

2008-11-22T09:54:00.000-05:00

"When we come to make things ourselves and because they are needed, instead of depending upon the department store to furnish them, we shall not only find more pleasure in making them, but we shall also take more pleasure in possessing them." -Gustav Stickley, from The Craftsman, ca. 1905

Thanks for posting this Jenn!

Christmas Gifts

2008-11-21T12:46:00.000-05:00

Times are tough, right? So, since buying toys seems like a luxury this year, I'll be making them :) Here's what I've got so far.

The ladybug and spider web are I Spy Bags that I make and sell. These were my first two :) For my little ones.

The pink and brown thing is a baby grab ball. I love it, but it took literally forever to make and was really hard on my fingers and wrists. No customs please, unless you wanna pay a lot :) lol

The treasure map is from this mama right HERE, I was able to make a trade for it :)

And last, but not least, is a little stuffed giraffe that I made for Lily :)

First Blog Post.... EVER!

2008-11-21T11:59:00.000-05:00

Okay, so first of all, hi! I'm Amanda, a.k.a. Poonico's Mom. Poonico is the combined nicknames of my two angels :) Pookie Pie (Lily) and Nico (Ethan Nico). Okay, so Nico really isn't a nickname, but whatever.

I suppose I should say a bit about myself.

I am a 26 year old wife to an amazing man. He is more than I could have ever dreamed. He is a great and honest man. He works himself to the bone, hunts and loves me more than I ever thought possible.

I am also the Mommy of two amazing little ones. Our oldest, Ethan is almost 4 and he is amazing. He is so smart and funny and he has a heart the size of the moon and stars and everything that surrounds it. He is the best son and he loves, loves, loves his baby sister.

Lily is our newest addition and she is the light of our lives. She has brought so much joy to our family, but not before a little drama. Lily decided to come into our lives a bit ahead of schedule. She was born 7 weeks early (I woke up in fast labor!) and we had just over a two week stay in the hospital with her. God must have been there for me because somehow we were able to stay here locally (no NICU) and I was allowed to stay with her the entire time. Our nurses were amazing and they'll never be forgotten.

I, besides being a wife and mom, love to make things. I love photography, digital art, art, writing (if I ever have a moment to think) and making things. I've found a new love in sewing! I run a small store on Etsy, it's called Poonico Ten. Check it out! Times are tough and so I'm doing my best to help out.

Ultrasound @ Nearly 11 Weeks

2007-10-25T22:47:00.000-04:00

Okay, so it's been a little while and it's taken me forever to post the new ultrasound, but here it is :) We have another ultrasound on November 8th!

And then there was one...

2007-09-14T01:57:00.000-04:00

I went to the Dr. today, they did an ultrasound and we now have just one baby. BUT, baby looks great and is so much bigger than before. A little sad right now, but we are happy to know that this baby is doing great and that if it was going to happen, it happened early. Here's the new ultrasound :)

We're having TWINS!

2007-09-04T18:45:00.000-04:00

I went to the ER Thursday because I was having some spotting and couldn't get a hold of my doctor. Well I finally get a call back from my Dr. and I go in for an ultrasound. The lady tells me that she thinks she sees a heartbeat!!! So, of course I'm just thrilled to know that the baby is okay. Then she says, "Oh no" silence.... "I think I see two!" OMG... I was like are you kidding me? and then she showed me!!!!! Two babies and two beautiful heartbeats :)

I spent several minutes saying "Oh my God. Oh my God." Ethan was there with me and he began saying it too :)

Here's the ultrasound! Enjoy!

We're Pregnant! 6 wks today! :)

2007-08-23T14:43:00.000-04:00

Our hard 'work' finally paid off! :) Yay! We haven't told anyone though. We want to wait. Or rather, he says he won't tell anyone until we tell my parents, but his parents are in Alaska until October and I don't want them to be the last to know. We're funny :) So, I'm trying to hold out. I think he'll tell his siblings, he's gonna crack soon. I kid! Okay, maybe not, but just a little.

We are so excited. We need to start thinking up names. :)