CharlotteMommies

Do You Have Flower Power?

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Are you looking for some curb appeal? Do you need to beautify your backyard? Spring planting season may be a few months away, but there's no better time than now to grow with CharlotteMommies! We've partnered with Flower Power to bring you a fabulous fundraiser to help you plan the garden of your dreams.

Flower Power sells quality flower bulbs with a 100 percent money-back guarantee. Gorgeous geraniums, tantalizing tiger lilies, and beautiful begonias are just a few of the many bulbs available and ready to be shipped to your door. This fundraiser runs Jan. 22–March 20, 2012, and your bulbs will arrive in April and May, just in time for beautiful summer blooms.

So save some gas and the trip to your local nursery or big-box store, and plan your perfect garden from the comfort of your computer. Visit http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/i/t/240186/VqP3dpDMWQZj to view the enormous array of flower bulbs, and spring into Flower Power and CharlotteMommies' fabulous fundraiser!

Special bonus: Spend $40 or more to receive a free bag of 10 Twilight gladiolus, a $10 value.

Grow with us!

Profits made through our fundraising link go toward our chapter's operating expenses.

Reminder: Ring in the New Year With TMN!

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

The New Year's parties may have ended, but our sponsorship promotion hasn't! We're still ringing in the New Year at The Mommies Network with an incredible deal that will have you reaching for your noisemakers.

Moms may have the greatest buying power, sharing business experiences and trends with one another. And since women make more than 80 percent of all purchasing decisions and control two thirds of the nation’s disposable income, targeting this group benefits your company. Resolve to reach this influenial portion of the population by taking advantage of this limited-time promotion.

With all new/renewed sponsorship agreements, your business will receive a complimentary blog feature (advertorial to include logo/product image and 500 words). Prepaid agreements receive a 5 percent discount and a complimentary two months on one sponsorship listing. Sponsors also receive 20 percent off event sponsorships. Offer expires Jan. 31, 2012.

The end of the month is just around the corner, so what are you waiting for? Celebrate with TMN by taking advantage of this amazing deal.

For more details on how your business can ring in the New Year with moms across the nation, please contact Jessica Van Dyke at Jessica.VanDyke@TheMommiesNetwork.org.

TMN Weigh-In Challenge News

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Hello, and Happy New Year to everyone!

My name is Karen Skidmore, and I am the owner of Completely Fit, a personal training and fitness company located in Mount Airy, Md. I am a team leader for one of the groups in The Mommies Network Weigh-In Challenge.

All my team members have started off strong and are working very hard to accomplish their goals. They were asked to fill out a detailed questionnaire about their current nutritional and fitness habits, and answer questions about what changes they wanted to create. Based on that information, I have helped each person come up with a detailed action plan that will not only help to accomplish her goals, but more importantly, help to improve her lifestyle.

If you are looking to make a change in your life but are not a part of the Weigh-In Challenge, you too can do it with just a few small changes at a time.

If your nutrition is off track, start by taking away one unhealthy food once a week and replacing it with a healthy food.

If your exercise routine is off track, start by finding something you really enjoy doing — walking, biking, or swimming — and adding 10 minutes of that exercise to your day. Before you know it, exercise will have become a daily routine.

Be sure to track your results, as we do much better when we can see our progress.

I am very excited to be a part of this group and team, and I look forward to reporting our successes back to you each month. — Karen Skidmore, Completely Fit

This Week with the Mommies

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

We chat online in a private forum — discussing everything from the best photographers to the worst temper tantrums and all that lies between — and meet up regularly at member-driven events around town. Whether it's a late-night commiseration about a crying baby (there are 4 a.m. posts to prove it) or a Moms' Night Out, CharlotteMommies provides what our members need, when and how they need it.

Click here to go directly to our calendar, and stay up-to-date on all of our events scheduled for this week.

Staying Healthy This Winter

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

A runny nose, coughing, an aching body, and choking phlegm are just a few of the unattractive and uncomfortable symptoms related to the common cold and flu. During the chilly winter months, we find ourselves spending the majority of our time indoors, making it quite easy to send and receive those unwanted cold and flu cooties. Both the common cold and the flu are extremely contagious. Many of these germs are spread by hand-to-hand contact and are also airborne. It seems as though we are destined for some sort of sniffle each year. However, we have control to a certain extent! Give it your best shot this winter and beyond to avoid those pesky cold and flu critter invasions. Here are the top 10 tips for staying healthy during cold and flu season:

Sleep eight hours a night. Yes, lack of sleep can affect the immune system. While we sleep, our immune system releases proteins called cytokines. Cytokines are necessary for fighting infection.
Get stress levels under control. Stress can decrease immune system function. Research has found that cortisol and catecholamines, hormones that are released during times of stress, can turn down the effects of the immune system. The following link provides more info on the effects of stress: http://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2007/Januar ... res_01.htm.
Yoga, deep breathing, meditation, exercise, and getting yourself into the present moment are all ways to cope with stress.
Get outdoors every day. Spending too much time indoors, especially around people, can increase your chances of contracting those cold and flu cooties! In addition, getting sunlight for 15 minutes every day can improve your mood and Vitamin D levels.
Exercise! Indoors or outdoors, exercise has repeatedly been shown to strengthen not only our bodies but also our immune systems. For detailed information regarding exercise and immunity, check out this link: http://my.clevelandclinic.org/disorders ... ystem.aspx.
To review guidelines on physical activity, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website: http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/eve ... index.html.
Wash your hands!
Consume a balanced and nutritionally dense diet. Proper nutrition goes a long way! There is no better way to receive vitamins and minerals than through fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains. For the dairy lovers and meat eaters out there, choose the leanest options available. Vitamins and minerals provide our cells with the building blocks it needs to fight off disease! Excess sugar and fat can create a systemic inflammatory response, making it more difficult for our bodies to fight off disease and illness.
Hydrate! Water can flush toxins from the body and carry much-needed nutrients to our body’s cells and tissues. The dry winter months can cause insensible hydration losses that we are typically not aware of. In addition, mild dehydration can make you feel drained and more susceptible to the dreaded "C": constipation.
Rinse the nasal passages! A practice that many refer to as nasal flushing is a safe and effective way to clean out the nasal passages. During cold-weather months, the respiratory tract creates more mucus in an attempt to warm and moisten our airways. When that mucus spends too much time inside the body, germs can linger and proliferate. By flushing the mucus from your nose, you are removing some of those unwanted infestations. For more information, check out http://www.neilmed.com/usa/index.php.
Avoid the inevitable. It may be best to avoid situations where you know you will encounter individuals with the cold or flu. In many instances, this is not possible, or perhaps you are unaware of someone's pending illness. Nonetheless, take precautions by strengthening your own immune system and washing your hands postvisit. Also, remember to avoid putting your hands near your face until a thorough washing occurs.
Keep your living spaces clean and tidy. Keyboards, doorknobs, countertops, and fruits and vegetables can all be hosts and carriers of bacteria and viruses. Disinfect often!

For more tips regarding nutritional supplements and vitamins to complement the tips mentioned above, consult your health care provider.

And remember, an apple a day just may keep the doctor away! Best to you and your family for a safe and healthy holiday!

Post submitted by Marisa from The Mommies Network's Content Team

To Die For Blueberry Muffins

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

I am not a morning person at all. When my daughter screams, "Mommy!" in the morning, all I want to do is hide under the covers for a few more minutes. So usually, I am not in the mood to make a huge breakfast, either. I like something that is good and quick.

Lately, Virginia has been on a blueberry kick. She loves her some blueberry waffles. When I was at the grocery store, I grabbed some fresh blueberries for her. Well, don't you know, my silly goose turned up her nose at the blueberries. I don't like to waste food, so I decided to make blueberry muffins. I usually use the store-bought muffin packs, but I ran across this To Die for Blueberry Muffin recipe on AllRecipes and decided to give it a shot.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Grease muffin cups, or line with muffin liners. I always like to put two liners in one muffin spot. Like my mother, I tell my family that the one that gets the double liner is going to have a lucky day. Combine 1 1/2 cups flour, 3/4 cup sugar, salt, and baking powder.

Measure 1 cup of vegetable oil; add egg and enough milk to fill the cup. Mix this with flour mixture.

Fold in blueberries. Fill muffin cups to the top, and sprinkle with crumb-topping mixture.

To make crumb topping: Mix 1/2 cup sugar, 1/3 cup flour, 1/4 cup butter, and 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon. Mix with fork, and sprinkle over muffins before baking.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes in the preheated oven or until done.

Post originally submitted by Kathy (absolutelykathy) to the CentralPiedmontMommies blog on Sept. 8, 2011.

This Week with the Mommies

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

MOMics Comics - Installing a Carseat is Easy!

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Illustration by Rainey Niklawski from RichmondMommies.com, A3 for The Mommies Network

If you enjoy drawing or designing mom-centered comics of your own, consider contributing to our "Momics" column! Send us an email at blogs@themommiesnetwork.org

Menu Monday: Kiss Me Chocolate Chip Cookies

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

I am always making CCC a million different ways, just search Chocolate Chip Cookie/s on here and you'll get a few hits. Can't help it. These are chewy soft yummies. And I had a ton of chips I needed to use up. When a few cooled I took them on a plate to Pixie girl- she took one, walked away took a bite and came back towards me, I told DH, "yup she wants one in each hand..." NOPE. She came over, put her arms around me and kissed me... then took the other cookie. I love that little baby.

2 sticks melted butter

1/4 c sugar
1 1/4 c brown sugar (lightly packed)
2Tbs milk
2 tsp vanilla
2 eggs

2 Tbs sour cream

Sift-

2 1/4c bread flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt- I used kosher last night

1 cup oats
2 cups chocolate chips
1 cup nuts (optional)

Cream sugars and butter until light and fluffy. Add remaining wet ingredients. Beat well. Mix in flour mixture. Stir in oats, chocolate and nuts.

Chill dough thoroughly. I left this dough overnight in the fridge. I used a small cookie scoop for these cookies. I baked them on stoneware. Which took longer, than my standard parchment lined jelly roll pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 9-10 minutes depending on your oven.

You can also scoop the dough onto a cookie sheet, flash freeze the dough balls and put them in a Zip top bag and bake a few at a time.

OR roll the dough into logs and wrap in plastic wrap and slice and bake them also.

Post provided by the Please Give Peas a Chance Blog.

My First Music Discovery Class

noreply@blogger.com (Noel) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 13:00:00 +0000

We know a child's brain is not fully formed at birth, but instead develops substantially during the early years of life and is highly influenced by the experiences of the child during these formative years. This concept is true for music as well. Children who grow up in an enriched music environment are better able to understand and enjoy music for the rest of their lives!

Consider how children learn language. The best way to learn language is to be immersed in language, in class and at home, day after day. The same is true with music. The most effective way to learn music is by being immersed in the sounds of music, including a broad variety of musical scales, rhythms, and styles, and starting at a very young age. Our music classes provide just that opportunity. Our classes, music and activities provide a fun way for parents and children to enjoy our songs together– and our CDs enable families to take home those songs so that they can enjoy our music and activities repeatedly throughout the week.

While we take our goal of educating children very seriously, we know that the key to success lies in one word—fun! Everyone has a great time in class, and children love listening to our CDs over and over again at home. Because we know that it is essential for grownups to enjoy the songs as well, we make sure our music isn’t simplistic or babyish. Parents tell us how fresh and enjoyable our music is!

Classes are offered most mornings each week including Saturday in several locations in the Metro Charlotte area. Check our web site for class schedules, information about our music teacher, tuition and more. Watch the 7-minute video that will show a class in session and interviews with the music educator who developed the nationally acclaimed curriculum and produced the 13 CDs (avoiding repetition for more than 3 years), with a parent, with a teacher and with a nanny! Our classes meet once each week for 45 minutes and are offered in 4 Sessions, Winter (8 classes), Spring (10 classes), Summer (8 classes) and Fall (10 classes). No classes during the weeks of major holidays and spring and fall breaks from the local public schools (for parents with older children in school). Mid-session enrollment is allowed if space is available (for prorated tuition).
Music Pups® (infants (6 months +/-) to 4+ years)

My First Music Discovery Class

info@musicdiscoveryclass.com
1-888-music-0-4
Like us on Facebook

Carolina Christmas at Charlotte Motor Speedway

noreply@blogger.com (Noel) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:03:00 +0000

There have been many things this holiday season that have been "off" with my family this year. For instance, the fact that my nearly 8 year old daughter is not currently living with us for the safety and well-being of my other two children. Now thankfully, she is living with my parents at the moment, so we ARE able to spend SOME time with her, but still not nearly as much as we'd like. So when I saw the invitation for families of The Mommies Network staff to go to Carolina Christmas at no charge, my spirits lifted and I joyously called my parents to see if we could have a joint outing with them and my daughter so that my daughter could enjoy the lights and festivities and my husband and I could have the opportunity to watch her face all lit up with rapture and possibly, hopefully, fingers crossed and breathe held with anticipation, we could see her interacting even briefly with her siblings in an appropriate manner.

That evening, my parents came to our apartment and my son got in the car with them to ride with them and my daughter to the Speedway. My younger daughter and her friend were in the back seat of the van chattering away excitedly. Now, we did have a little trouble finding the entrance and apparently there were a few small mix-ups with some vehicles going around in circles instead of through to the lights, but considering it was a preview, I thought it went very well regardless of those small snafus.

As soon as we drove up toward the lights, the childish gibberish in the back halted and was instantly replaced with gasps and exclamations of how beautiful the lights were. It was magical to see the lights through the eyes of small children. Then when we moved from the dragway to the speedway, even I could not hold back the grin and sparkle of delight in my eyes to find myself really and truly driving where the race cars drive. When we got to the Christmas Village, the girls were pleasantly surprised yet again and tugged us toward the ponies, the rides, the trees, and Bethlehem. No one could decide what to do first!

My near 8 year old found us at the petting zoo and jumped up and down with eyes big and bright, saying, "Mommy! Mommy! I rode all the rides!" I hugged her and bounced with her before she ran off again with grandma, grandpa and her brother. As I wandered with my husband, friend, and the smaller girls, I realized what a blessing it was to be able to have my family at the preview. Not only had our entrance been free and the rides free, but I was astonished to see that there were so many special needs children present...children much like my near 8 year old...who would have been overwhelmed by the Christmas Village on any other night. My heart clutched in my chest and I nearly wanted to cry at the wonderful gift that the organizers and presenters gave to my family and so many other families just like mine.

***Carolina Christmas at the Charlotte Motor Speedway is open every night now thru Dec. 31. For more information, visit http://www.charlottemotorspeedway.com/christmas/tickets/

Ring in the New Year with TMN!

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:35:00 +0000

Ring in the New Year by reaching moms across the nation!

Women make more than 80 percent of all purchasing decisions and control two thirds of the nation’s disposable income. And moms may have the greatest buying power. What mom doesn’t share the latest trends or personal experiences with a business that has provided products or services for her family or herself?

To help you start the New Year with a bang, The Mommies Network is offering the following:
With all new/renewed sponsorship agreements, your business will receive a complimentary blog feature (advertorial to include logo/product image and 500 words). Prepaid agreements receive a 5 percent discount and a complimentary two months on one sponsorship listing. Sponsors also receive 20 percent off event sponsorships. Offer expires Jan. 31, 2012.

The Mommies Network can help your business reach moms across the nation or in your community. We are a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide a safe, secure, free place for mothers to find support and encouragement from other mothers and to empower them to be better women, parents, and community leaders. Through our online forums, our chapters connect local mothers, enabling them to ask questions, seek support, offer encouragement, find volunteer opportunities, and grow as leaders as they volunteer their time with our site. Our organization provides a valuable service to a portion of the population that is nearly always overlooked, overworked, and taken for granted: moms!

For more details on how your business can ring in the New Year with moms across the nation, please contact Jessica Van Dyke at Jessica.VanDyke@TheMommiesNetwork.org.

How are you reaching the greatest buying power in our nation?

On the Calendar This Week!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Noel) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

Nov. 30 East Thanksmismas

Dec. 2 Central Meet and Greet

Dec. 3. SITE WIDE Holiday Potluck

Don't Forget: Santa Letters!

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 14:53:00 +0000

The elves are busy coordinating delivery of Santa letters to boys and girls across the United States. Is your letter in the bunch? If you haven't yet ordered your letter(s), don't delay! Place your order by Nov. 30 to ensure delivery before Christmas.

Remember, Your first custom letter is only $6. If you purchase more than one, you will receive a 10 percent discount on the entire order. Use coupon code SANTA at checkout to receive 10 percent off the total.

You will be asked a few questions about your child during the ordering process. Your answers will assist Santa in creating a unique letter for your child. Letters will be printed on Santa's special stationery, signed by the jolly fellow himself, and with the help of a special elf, shipped in bulk to North Pole, Alaska, in time for your little one to receive a special letter before the holidays.

Reserve your letter(s) before Nov. 30 to ensure delivery before Christmas. We hope you'll take advantage of this terrific treat from the North Pole. Place your order now! http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/santa.html

The proceeds of this fundraiser will support The Mommies Network and your local chapter. Please mention your chapter's name to ensure they receive credit for your purchase.

We Have a Winner!

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 16:49:00 +0000

From Oct. 17 through Nov. 17, five chapters in the Charlotte, North Carolina, area participated in the Charlotte Area Dishwasher Giveaway. Members nominated who they felt were the most deserving mommies to win a Frigidaire Professional 24-inch Built-In Dishwasher from Plaza Appliance Mart. Sixteen nominees were chosen from the following chapters: CentralPiedmontMommies, CharlotteMommies, LakeNormanMommies, UnionCountyMommies, and YorkCountyMommies. We at The Mommies Network enjoyed reading the various stories and thank all who submitted nominations!

The stories that were submitted were all quite moving. However, there can be only one winner, and the mommies have spoken. By a landslide, Mommy_009 is the winner of the Frigidaire Professional 24-inch Built-In Dishwasher from Plaza Appliance Mart!

Mommy_009's daughter was born with a rare birth defect that has affected her esophagus and her digestive system. As a result, she is 95 percent tube-fed and 5 percent mouth-fed with Stage 1 baby food.

Here's what Mommy_009 had to say about the giveaway:

We would love to have the opportunity to possibly win the new dishwasher. We have needed a new one for the past few years for various reasons:

1. For the safety and sanity of our child's feeding/medical supplies.

2. We have well water (and a water softener that doesn’t help), which causes hard-water buildup in our dishwasher.

3. The top rack is bent.

4. The dishes appear dirty even after being run on the heavy-soiled cycle. So after equipment and supplies are run through the dishwasher, we also have to boil them in hot water on the stove.

Congratulations, Mommy_009, on winning the Charlotte Area Dishwasher Giveaway!

Thank you again to all who participated in this contest! And if you're in the market for a new dishwasher or other product for the home, be sure to like Plaza Appliance Mart on Facebook, or visit its website.

On the Calendar This Week!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Noel) — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

Nov. 21 University Kidz Play Here

Mommies Weigh-In Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 14:18:00 +0000

Are you looking to shed a few pounds? Need some help with your fitness goals? Or just searching for the right foods to eat? The Mommies Network challenges you to be the best you can be in 2012!

Join mommies across the country on their journey to be healthy for themselves and their families. Participants will be assigned to regional teams led by a TMN member and a wellness collaborator. Results, tips, and stories will be shared monthly to keep all participants motivated. This challenge is a six-month commitment, running January–June.

Email fitness@themommiesnetwork.org for more information about this program. Applications will be accepted through Nov. 23, 2011.

On the Calendar This Week!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Noel) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

Nov. 13 University Dinner and Park Playdate

Nov. 17 East Playdate at Reedy Creek

Nov. 19 Southwest Ornament Painting

Nov. 19 University Mom's Night Out

Dishwasher Giveaway ... Voting Extension

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 15:58:00 +0000

Please note that the voting period for this giveaway has been extended! Voting is open through Thursday, Nov. 17.

Plaza Appliance Mart is giving away a Frigidaire Professional 24-inch Built-In Dishwasher to one deserving member of The Mommies Network in the Charlotte area!

The nominations are in, and voting is under way! The winner will be decided by the members of our participating chapters: CentralPiedmontMommies, CharlotteMommies, LakeNormanMommies, UnionCountyMommies, and YorkCountyMommies. Click here to review all the nominees, then click on your chapter's link below to vote for the mommy you think is most deserving.

CentralPiedmontMommies vote here
CharlotteMommies vote here
LakeNormanMommies vote here
UnionCountyMommies vote here
YorkCountyMommies vote here

Email CLTDishwasherGiveaway@themommiesnetwork.org for details regarding this giveaway.

Tooth Fairy Tantrums

noreply@blogger.com (Noel) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

The tooth fairy teaches children that they can sell body parts for money.
~David Richerby

There are 3 reasons why I blog:

1. To share or vent things that go on in my life, usually as a mom, but not necessarily confined to that one aspect of who I am

2. To write down memories of those little things that no matter how much I wish to think I will always remember them, I know I wont 3 years down the road, so that I can look back reading these and say "Oh yeah!!! I remember that!!!!"

3. So that many years down the road from now, when my sons are adults and married, and they come to me and tell me they and their wife are expecting their first child, I can gleefully go to Office Max, have all of these blogs printed out, and create a book to give to them at the Baby shower, cackling with glee the entire time. I figure this will be considered good parenting (and great revenge) as I will be letting them know for real what they have gotten themselves into. Muahahaha!

Today's blog is for the latter reason.

Xavier lost another tooth yesterday. It had been loose for awhile, and it finally fell out while at school. He came home grinning madly, showing off the big gaping hole where his tooth used to be, and chattered excitedly about how the tooth fairy was going to come tonight and hand over money for this tiny little baby tooth.

He went to bed, chatting himself to sleep about what he would spend his mighty dollar bill he was going to get from the tooth fairy that night. J casually reminded me after Xavier fell asleep and I nodded that I would remember.

I totally forgot.

Now in my defense, I am flipping exhausted, both physically and mentally! I am dealing with a 6 month old who has decided to start budding his own teeth (not tooth, teeth, I can see 2 tiny baby bottom teeth almost erupting simultaneously) and is waking up every 60-90 minutes at night and just plain ticked off during the day. I am also dealing with a 3 yr old with whom I am locked in a power struggle with over edibles. So yes I was a bad Mom, but I was a Tired Mom. I screwed up. I'm not perfect. But there were reasons behind my lack of memory.

I realized I screwed up at 6 am after nursing Soren for the third time that night when Xavier came out of his room weeping. I asked him what was wrong and he told me his tooth was still there and there was no money. I froze thinking "oh crap oh crap oh crap oh crap!!! How the heck can I fix this?!?!?" Then oddly enough I had an idea. Aha! School already called in a 2 hour delay due to inclement weather. You know, cause it was 45 degrees outside and raining. A little bit. Kind of. Well not really by then. But Still!!! So I gathered Xavier in my arms and told him that it was still dark out and there was still time. And that maybe because of the bad weather (by the way honey you have 2 hours off of school! Isn't that great?) that the tooth fairy got blown off course. And maybe, if she didn't make it tonight, she will definitely be here the next night. Because obviously there has to be a good reason!!

I got him calmed down and I thought he seemed ok. I sent him to bed and told him to try and sleep because the tooth fairy would NOT come if he was awake. And then after listening to make sure he did what I asked, I booked it down the stairs and frantically searched for money, a pen, and paper.

I sat down and wrote (in flowing cursive so he couldn't recognize my handwriting) a letter from the tooth fairy explaining she got stuck in snow and by the time she got to our house he was up so she left the money downstairs and would come by the next night to grab the tooth. I then folded the letter into a cool little package that held the money and placed it by on the kitchen counter by the coffee machine. Congratulating myself for a job well done I lumbered back to bed in pure exhaustion, looking forward to just a few hours of uninterrupted sleep as it was now technically Js watch.

At 7 am J bursts into our bedroom with a look of pure panicked frustration on his face and asks me to please help him deal with Xavier because he can not right now or he will do something he may regret. This, coming from my sweet natured, MOST patient, never ruffled, loving husband. If he is like this I know it's going to be a really bad morning. So I throw on my bathrobe and head out to see what is going on.

Apparently, Xavier did not calm down. Instead he started obsessing over the fact the tooth fairy had yet to make an appearance (as far as he knew) and worked himself into a tizzy. Fine. However, he worked himself up so much and got so angry he lashed out. The bad part is he decided to lash out at his innocent younger brother, Ashe, who had been sleeping peacefully in the bottom bunk of their bunk beds...

By pouring a bottle of cold water on him while he slept.

To steal a quote from a friend:

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot!

Seriously???? As I enter the chaos, J had calmed Ashe down for the most part and dried him up but he was still sniffing and trying not to cry. J went over to him to try and make him feel better. Xavier was already in time out and he sat there snarling and growling. I walked over to him and asked him what his deal was, and was it true this was all about the tooth fairy. He growled at me that she never came.

"Oh really?"

"I stayed awake the whole time and she never showed up!"

"Duh kid! I told you point blank she wont show up if you're awake. That was the whole point for you to go back to bed! And before you start your shenanigans again did you notice this note over here on the counter?"

"No!"

"I thought not." I walked over, opened it up, showed him the money, and read him the note. Then, I pocketed the money, told him he lost it for his behavior, and that he would now have to earn it back.

To any neighbors who heard the howl of rage that issued forth from that consequence, my apologies that it happened so early in the morning. I cut him off his howling and told him further more, the way he acted to Ashe, who was completely innocent in all this, was beyond unacceptable, and that he would also spend the entire day thinking of some way to really make it up to his little brother. And if he didn't figure out something appropriate I would.

He flipped out, and I wasn't in the mood to put up with it, so I sent him to his room to calm down. Which took about 45 minutes and a lot of screaming of "I'M CALMED DOWN MOM! MOM!!!!!! LISTEN TO ME!!!! I AM CALM!!! ARRRRRGH!" until he quieted down, actually calmed down, and did some major apologizing to the whole family.

As far as I'm concerned, I'm of the mind to kill off the tooth fairy if this is what is going to happen if she's "late". And I can promise you she will be late again, at some point, for some kid. We parents who take on the role of a mythological creature are not the Perfect Legend. We're human.

Stupid Tooth Fairy >:P

Post submitted by Brittany (Username: Rhaven)from TriangleMommies

On the Calendar This Week!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Noel) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

Nov. 7 East: Meet and Greet http://www.charlottemommies.com/forum/cal_display.php?id=5457&cp_day_start=7&cp_mon_start=11&cp_year_start=2011&cp_category=

Nov. 9 Southwest: Meet and Greet http://www.charlottemommies.com/forum/cal_display.php?id=5460&cp_day_start=9&cp_mon_start=11&cp_year_start=2011&cp_category=

Nov. 10 University: Meet and Greet http://www.charlottemommies.com/forum/cal_display.php?id=5440&cp_day_start=10&cp_mon_start=11&cp_year_start=2011&cp_category=

The Mommies Network Presents Santa Letters

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 14:11:00 +0000

TMN presents Santa Letters!

Have your kids begun making their Christmas wish lists? The Mommies Network and Santa Claus have teamed up to send your little one a letter straight from the North Pole!

Your first custom letter is only $6. If you purchase more than one, you will receive a 10 percent discount on the entire order. Use coupon code SANTA at checkout to receive 10 percent off the total.

You will be asked a few questions about your child during the ordering process. Your answers will assist Santa in creating a unique letter for your child. Letters will be printed on Santa's special stationery, signed by the jolly fellow himself, and with the help of a special elf, shipped in bulk to North Pole, Alaska, in time for your little one to receive a special letter before the holidays.

Reserve your letter(s) before Nov. 30 to ensure delivery before Christmas. We hope you'll take advantage of this terrific treat from the North Pole. Place your order now! http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/santa.html
Please mention our area chapter name to ensure we receive credit for your purchase.

The proceeds of this fundraiser will support The Mommies Network and your local chapter.

Evolution of a Mom

noreply@blogger.com (Noel) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Yes, parenthood changes everything.
But parenthood also changes with each baby.

Here are some of the ways having a second and third child differs from having your first:

Your Clothes

1st baby: You begin wearing maternity clothes as soon as your OB/GYN confirms your pregnancy.
2nd baby: You wear your regular clothes for as long as possible.
3rd baby: Your maternity clothes are your regular clothes.

The Baby's Name

1st baby: You pore over baby-name books and practice pronouncing and writing combinations of all your favorites.
2nd baby: Someone has to name their kid after your great-aunt Mavis, right? It might as well be you.
3rd baby: You open a name book, close your eyes, and see where your finger falls. Bimaldo? Perfect!

Preparing for the Birth

1st baby: You practice your breathing religiously.
2nd baby: You don't bother practicing because you remember that last time, breathing didn't do a thing.
3rd baby: You ask for an epidural in your 8th month.

The Layette

1st baby: You prewash your newborn's clothes, color-coordinate them, and fold them neatly in the baby's little bureau.
2nd baby: You check to make sure that the clothes are clean and discard only the ones with the darkest stains.
3rd baby: Boys can wear pink, can't they?

Worries

1st baby: At the first sign of distress--a whimper, a frown--you pick up the baby.
2nd baby: You pick the baby up when her wails threaten to wake your firstborn.
3rd baby: You teach your 3-year-old how to rewind the mechanical swing.

Activities

1st baby: You take your infant to Baby Gymnastics, Baby Swing, and Baby Story Hour.
2nd baby: You take your infant to Baby Gymnastics.
3rd baby: You take your infant to the supermarket and the dry cleaner.

Going Out

1st baby: The first time you leave your baby with a sitter, you call home 5 times.
2nd baby: Just before you walk out the door, you remember to leave a number where you can be reached.
3rd baby: You leave instructions for the sitter to call only if she sees blood.

At Home

1st baby: You spend a good bit of every day just gazing at the baby.
2nd baby: You spend a bit of every day watching to be sure your older child isn't squeezing, poking, or hitting the baby.
3rd baby: You spend a little bit of every day hiding from the children.

Post Submitted by Statesville Mommies

A Safe Child

noreply@blogger.com (Noel) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0000

The staff at A Safe Child includes IAFCS Certified Professional Childproofers. They carry a full line of safety products and have the knowledge to install these products in your home to keep your children safer. A Safe Child is the Charlotte dealer for Life Saver Pool Fence as well.

When you call A Safe Child, they will walk through each room in your home and point out all the hazards and will discuss ways to eliminate problems by making an adjustment or by installing a safety product. This comprehensive survey takes 1 to 1.5 hours. Your peace of mind is as simple as a quick call to A Safe Child!

Visit A Safe Child at http://www.asafechild.com or check them out on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Safe-Child-Charlotte/132485643449278

Seriously, It Can Only Get Better From Here

noreply@blogger.com (Noel) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0000

I tell myself this all the time: “it can only get better, right?” Like when my daughter brought home a D on a test, I say, “it can only get better,” or when the dishwasher/stove/microwave/other random appliance breaks down I find myself saying, “it can’t get any worse”.

Personal experience will allow me to tell you that having an almost thirteen-year-old daughter is hard work. She just got a cell phone and if the thing isn’t working right, she flips out. Next year is her first year of middle school and she is already freaking out about that. I get tired of the attitude, the “what” or “I don’t wanna” that comes from her mouth, but at the end of the day she always says something to make me smile and remember why I brought her into this world.

I look back on the last thirteen or so years and I wonder, could I have done things differently? And if I could, would I really go back and change it. I really don’t think so. Motherhood has blessed me in so many ways that are hard to describe. I have learned patience, trust, faith and most of all humor. I have learned to laugh at my mistakes as well as my daughters; I have learned to see things through her eyes and not the eyes of an over-protective parent. In doing so, I have realized that she is a great kid with so many wonderful qualities.

Take, for example, the days where I am sick or cranky. She senses my negativity and is right on the ball when it comes to trying to either stay out of my way or make me feel better. She always knows when to make me a cute little card or use her artistic talent in some way, shape or form to make me smile. The thing is, she has been doing it for years and when I sit and think about it, I guess that means I have taught her well – right?

Life has been challenging for us over the years, I have been pretty ill and haven’t worked since May of 2008 (right after Mother’s Day), nor have I had a stable residence, but the one thing that I continue to do is provide for her. I make sure I always have her Flamin’ Hot Cheetos ® around and that she has her face soap, help with her homework food in her stomach, a roof over her head and a lot of love. And at the end of the day, I don’t think that I could ask for a better child.

Family life is full of ups and downs as well as a lot of in-between. When the downs come around, I find myself being reminded that it can only get better from here. I encourage all moms this Mother’s Day to know that it is rough being a parent whether you are single or married, living at home or with a friend/family member. At the end of the day all that matters is that you provide love and care for your child - they will remember you for that. Gone are the days of criticism and bickering, and in are the days of encouragement and gentleness.

I find that having to separate my day-to-day life from my life as a mom is hard, and while me saying that may not make sense to you, it does to me. I leave behind the trials of looking for a job, I walk away from the stress that sometimes comes with volunteering, and I don’t bring home a bad day at the doctor’s office or anywhere else I go. When my daughter gets home from school, it is all about being a mom and what is good for her.

Being a mom is a full time gig. I don’t get to take time off for good behavior nor do I get any sick days. But I do know that when the going gets tough and there is a lot to do and things aren’t quite going my way, it can only get better.
Post submitted by Jody from ClevelandMommies.
{Originally submitted to The Mommies Network Blog on 5/2/2011}