fairytalecomesalive

A Giveaway to Say Goodbye!

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Thu, 11 Sep 2014 23:02:00 +0000

I can't find the right way to begin with this post. I've been thinking a lot about deleting this blog. I've had great time working on it, I've met amazing people and had free therapy too. All the time that I've been occassionaly blogging, I couldn't accept the fact that I will probably never have the time I had when I was a SAHM. My mind keeps running around this blog but I don't have the freaking time to do what I want with it. It doesn't feel right to have something left. The bitter truth is that my blog can't be a part of my everyday life anymore.

I've created a business that I love so much and it requires a huge part of my time (so does my son). While trying to keep things simple in this chaotic life of mine, I decided to delete my blog! This blog won't exist anymore after October 1st. So, you have plenty of time to copy any recipes/tutorials and maybe ask a question or something. A huge goodbye from me! I loved being a part of this community! I'll answer your emails and everything as soon as possible!

Oh, but before I go, I want to keep contact with you! If you want to check out my new business, its name is Crystal Fairytale Events. This is where you can find me now. Also, if you ever need any of my services, just mention on your mail/message that you've been a reader of my blog and you'll get 10% off on your first purchase! Just sending lots of love to you!

Also, a bigger goodbye gift for two lucky readers...

Two summer pinatas (because we refuse to let summer go) filled with homemade vegan candy!

Good luck! I love you so!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Vicky Petit Boutique Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Wed, 30 Jul 2014 21:07:00 +0000

This month I had the pleasure to be sponsored by my favourite type of entrepreneur!

A small business owner! Emanuella is a mother of a beautiful 2 year old girl named Victoria and they live in Florida. She's the woman behind Vicky Petit Boutique. Check out her etsy shop and you'll sure get baby (girl) fever!

Below there's a mini interview to get to know Emanuella better! Keep reading to see what a great surprise she offers to Fairytale Comes Alive readers...

1. When did you start crafting?

I started crafting without any intent to become a seller. I Always loved to create things and craft. I started designing the headbands for my daughter since she was born. I tried to accessorize her clothes with something different : a belt, a bow, or a headband to match the clothes.

2. What are your favourite materials?

In creating the headbands I like to mix and match different texture s and materials, such as fabric, tule, pearl, feather. I started with head pieces and rompers, then I included party favors, maternity and baptism favors and party design. I have design myself the first and second birthday party for my daughter.

3. Why did you open an etsy shop?

All my friends, family and friends of them asked me where did I find the stuff Victoria was wearing , and I told them I made. Then they asked me why I didn't make it for sell.I realized a potential opportunity to get my ideas , the unique touch the items I was designing and transform them in a business. I started selling locally about 2 years ago and last year in November 2013 I opened my store Vickypetitboutique on etsy. I also have my Facebook page where I do sell ,Vicky Petit Boutique. I have a full time job , but my goal is to be able to work full time on my shop.

4. How do you find the time to craft?

I spend some time on my nights and weekends creating new pieces and making orders that I sell online.

***

Emanuella offers a lucky winner 5 items from her shop!!!

How awesome is that?

--Important Update: My silly self gave you the wrong FB page to like...please take a second to like the right one below!--

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Favourite Things & An Announcement

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Mon, 14 Jul 2014 13:51:00 +0000

Hello everyone from me and Nereus
(who seems like he doesn't even care that I'm kissing him)!

I'm so happy while I'm writing this! It's the first time after a few months that I actually have free time. I've been so blessed with my job that is so creative and rewarding. Well, it takes a lot of my time of course but at least it worths it.

Lately I don't have time to share my life here. Not many things have changed except of Nereus growing up like crazy of course. Oh, and that we adopted a kitty!But generally speaking, so many things have changed since I started this blog and maybe the biggest is happening right now. Such a huge change in our lives. But before letting you know, I made a list with a few interesting things I found! Check it out...

This shop's baby girl headbands make wanna have a daughter!

Vegan Coconut Bacon recipe? I need to make this as soon as possible!

The Way I Feel is such a great book for toddlers! It helps them name their feelings so they can express them with words!

Jason Quit Bugging Me Spray I literally carry this everywhere with me as it seems mosquitos love my blood!

So yeap!

I wanted to let everyone know that Philip and I have broke up! So, I guess I'm a single mum from now on! We're in that totally awkward period that we try to figure out how things are gonna work from now on so my mind is not clear yet. I hope that everything will find its place soon!

I hope that you're all relaxed and happy!

Love you all!

What I Ate Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Thu, 27 Mar 2014 10:11:00 +0000

Days have been busy busy for me. Lots of event planning for my amazingly creative job, lots of crazy activities with my little guy and lots of great food of course. I haven't done a WIAW post for a while and when I found a nice and (almost) relaxed day, I grabbed my camera and took photos of all the meals I had. I'm not proud to say that most of my days are not typically like this. I've been eating cake, oreos and drinking coffee and wine more than I'd like to admit. I can see that something is so wrong with my eating habits. Some days I'll eat so clean and healthy while others I'll indulge in huge amounts of sweet treats and not so healthy drinks. I wish I had the time to focus more on my diet. Maybe in the summer? I hope so.

Breakfast

Something that i'm very happy with is that I always start my day with a big glass of lemon water. Other than the health benefits, I also crave healthy foods after drinking it! Cool right?

Nereus went at the grandma's (my mom's) cause I had lots of work. He woke up very late and had two corn cakes on the road.

I also prepared his lunch: Black bean pattie, brown rice and avocado with chia seeds and lemon-olive oil dressing. And his snacks: a kiwi fruit and my last minute trail mix made with goji berries, pumpkin seeds and cashews.

When Nereus left with his grandma and I was a little bit more relaxed, it was time for me to eat. Toast! Basil-tomato vegan cheese (this tastes divine) with lots of romaine lettuce and vegan mayo in spelt bread. Yumminess!

Morning Snack

I washed the dishes and left the house to run some errands. These guys kept me company while I was on the bus, waiting for my turn in the bank etc. Isn't coconut water the best beverage ever? I just wish it was not sooo expensive!

Lunch

When I got back home I had lots of work to do, but it was lunch time and I was so hungry so I made a quick salad with leftover baked portobello mushrooms, romaine, chard, avocado, onion , dill, olive oil and lots of lemon juice of course. Have I mentioned how much I love lemons? I did most of my work while slowly enjoying my salad!

Afternoon Snack

While Nereus is on his way back with grandma he always falls asleep in the car. He sleeps a bit more here and then wakes up veeery hungry. I offered him soy yogurt and he choosed three toppings! So not typical for this picky toddler who's not that much into mixing foods. Anyway, he decided to add popped quinoa, cornflakes and hemp seeds.

I had a green smoothie with ginger, banana, kale, parsley, hemp protein, wheatgrass powder and water. Nereus had some too!

Dinner

While Nereus was napping I took the time to make lentil soup. I love topping it with fresh dill and freshly cracked black pepper.

I'm currently in the phase of wanting to experiment in the kitchen. I'm pinning new recipes that I'd like to try on my Pinterest. I'd love to know what's your fave food. Vegan or not. For breakfast, lunch, dinner or even snacks...seriously anything just let me know! I want the inspiration!

Nereus is 2 Years Old - 20 Questions Interview

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 21:32:00 +0000

And yes, I win the best mama award for writing this post 6 months after my kid's birthday! Seriously, this year has been so crazy. I really wanted to write about this little man though. I have to write down all the facts before I forget about them.

Back in 27th of September, my little one turned 2 years old! We were working a lot, so we had no time for a party. We opted for something simple.I made a raw chocolate fudge cake and when I was back home it was the time for the three of us to blow some candles. But the night wanted to be a little bit more spectacular. I went into the kitchen and quickly prepared the "cake". As I was walking into the living room where my boys were, the stupid tall candle fell on my hand and burned me. Immediately, the birthday "cake"-fudge fell off my hands. You should have seen Philip's and Nereus's faces haha...we have it all taped! Anyway, Ι did control myself (mostly) and picked up the broken plate and the fudge, putted it in an other plate, added two candles and went back again! We sang and blew the candles which were lighting up by themselves, something hilarious according to Nereus. Seriously, lots of laughs!

Two amazing years have passed already! I've said many times before how much I love being a mother and even at this -let's be indulgent- difficult age, we have made it very well.

This time for Nereus's birthday, I decided to do something different from last year. I interviewed him! This was so fun! Nereus doesn't talk a lot, but the words he says are pretty clear for his age. Also I'll be writing what he trully said. He's speaking english too, but most answers were given in greek so don't bother too much trying to figure out what he says. I'll be giving an explaination, too.

What’s your name? Ias.
(Nereus)

How old are you?Zio.
(his succesful enough attempt to say two in greek)

What’s your favourite color? Broccoli.
(he actually said that...he loves this vegetable...his fave colors though are blue and black)

What’s your favourite book? Elmo.
(well, he's clearly lying...we don't have a book with Elmo)

What’s your favourite movie? Baba.
(his attempt to say Mater in greek...Mater's Tall Tales is his fave)

What’s you favourite song? Voom.
(sound of a car...from this point he started not being very cooperative)

Who’s your favourite band/singer? -
(no answer but it's clearly Bob Marley...he's asking for his music all the time)

What’s your favourite outfit?-
(no answer again...I would say comfy clothes but he has no favourite)

What’s your favourite game? Voom.
(true...he loves his cars)

What’s your favourite food? Allo.
(this means "other"...he usually says brocolli and he's also nuts for soup, potatoes, pasta and spirulina)

What’s your favourite drink? Chai.
(he loves his herbal teas)

What do you love the most? Mama.

What are you afraid of? -
(he used to be afraid of birds, flies and snails for some reason he thought they would hurt him...I think he got over it now after lots of "they love you and we love them too")

What makes you laugh? Ola...plaka.
(this means "everything...funny")

Who’s your best friend? Anna.

What do you want to be when you grow up? Gatos.
(this means "cat")

Where is your favourite place? Allo.
(="other"...I'd say at his music class...such a beautiful montessori inspired place full of kids)

Where would you like to travel? Teno...allo.
(="train...other")

What did you do on your birthday? -
(The three of us blew candles. A couple of months later we had a party,too!)

Montessori For Toddlers: The Coat Hanger

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Mon, 10 Mar 2014 16:47:00 +0000

Hello mamas! I hope you enjoyed the first post of these new series, where I shared the idea behind our nature basket. Today, I want to talk about something that has taken lots of consideration by my side. I'm going to talk about how we can transform our houses so our little toddlers can move independently.

It has been hard enough for me cause we rent a very small house and we're probably not staying here for long. But, after some good planning I found the ways to make our house more montessori friendly.You don't have to build a tiny sink in the bathroom and you don't necessarily need to have a little table and chair in the kitchen if you don't have the space. It would be lovely, but not everyone has the money or space for creating an ideal montessori environment. Don't feel discouraged though! You can do the best you can...and this is always better than not trying at all!

Toddlers want to do everything by themselves and who can say no to them? Below you can find an easy, cheap and -so little space needed- way to encourage you child to do things on his own....

In the entrace, we have his little coat hanger at his hight on the wall and under it his shoes. Nereus, at 29 months, knows that we use our slippers when we're in the house and that before we leave we put on our shoes and coat. He hangs his coat by himself and he can also puts his shoes on and off (not all of them...allstars are tricky). I found this hanger at very cheap for a wooden one and I know you can find one too! Try second hand if you wish and you may be surprised!

He feels so proud when he accomplishes something and really there is no reason to do things for him when he can do them on his own (unless if he asks for help of course). I feel great watching him doing things on his own and yeah, I admit it, I love having more time to rest my tired arms!

How to Make a Plant Pot With a Soy Yogurt Container

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Tue, 04 Mar 2014 13:25:00 +0000

I don't know if you guys know it, but I'm a crafter. I haven't share too much from this part of myself here, cause when I started blogging it was all about my son. Now that I am "less mother" (don't freak out everything is great and I'm hopefully gonna talk about this soon), you are going to see more crafts over here! Yay!

The way I craft is a little complicated. Although I have tried many kinds of crafting like felting, creating things with polymer clay, sewing, knitting, jewelery making and many more, I realized that I only wanted to create things that don't harm the environment, are vegan of course and that could have also a practical use.

This is how I created this little plant pot from an empty soy yogurt container! Beautiful, right? You can make this pretty fast and it really looks so good! It's really a great way to reuse little containers!

What you'll need:

-Empty and clean yogurt container

-Glue (I used Uhu. It's Vegan.)

-Twine

How to:

1. Remove the extra parts of your container (mine was a piece of paper) and recycle them. Turn your container upside down and put a little bit of glue on one side.

2. Put your twine on the glued part and lightly press it with your finger.

3. Keep gluing the twine on the container while turning it around.

4. When it's all covered, let it dry completely and then put a little potted plant in it!

Do you like crafting?
What was your last creation?
Please let me know...I love new ideas!!

Montessori For Toddlers: Nature Basket

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Sun, 23 Feb 2014 23:44:00 +0000

Hello and welcome to my new series...Montessori For Toddlers!

In these posts you're gonna see how we implement the montessori philosophy at our home with our little toddler Nereus. What is different here, is that we don't have much space in this house. Nereus doesn't have his own room and most of the times finding a space in each room for him has been a huge challenge. Did I mention that we don't have much money? So, if you live in a very small house and there are not much money to spend or just seeking for ideas, I hope to inspire you and maybe you could try some of the activities and tips with you littles!

Today I want to share with you, something that we have started recently. The inspiration came after reading this book and taking the challenge to spend some time in the woods everyday for 21 days. I was so excited to do this but Nereus had other ideas. Like staying home. Crazy kid.

Those times we did reach the woods though, were so fun for both of us in a unique way. Among other activities, Nereus loved collecting rocks and pinecones. I got him a little basket to put them in and a magnifying glass to examine them! Do your research in flea markets and second hand shops first. If you can't find what you want, check out this amazing little basket and this magnifying glass!

His little treasure basket is on his table so he can has access to it whenever he wants. He loves taking out his finds daily and checking them out, telling me their names and their colors. He never forgets to remind me that we have to arrange a walk to take these back to the woods. This way kids learn to respect nature and that not everything belongs to them. It's a good start for not being materialists in the future.

Please let me know, do you have a nature basket with you kids?

Do you generally collect things you find in nature?

Tots & Toddlers Giveaway -CLOSED-

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Mon, 17 Feb 2014 13:55:00 +0000

I know that most of my blog readers are parents (well at least the active ones that connect with me somehow). Most of you are also eco conscious and of course you like super cool eco-friendly items for your kids. That's why I'm so happy today for sharing this giveaway with you. If you're a long time reader, you probably remember the yummi pouch from this post. These has literally saved Nereus's nutrition. Now that I work, sometimes I don't have the time to make a little smoothie, so I make a big batch once a week, freeze them and the little can have his green smoothie every day.

Check out these awesome brands!

Piggy Pajamas

Website | Facebook | Twitter

2 Mini-Me sets, an Infant and a Toddler size - Retail value: $119.90
Winner may choose the print.
Our kids Mini-Me pajama sets are 100% organic cotton, and not treated with any chemicals. They feature adorable two piece styling "just like Mom and Dad's pjs", down to the teeny chest pocket, and coconut shell buttons. The comfortable and long lasting printed waistband reads "Piggy Brand" and will hold up to years of washing and wear. Our cotton is the highest quality, GOTS certified organic, and is extra-soft and stretchy thanks to the rib-knit weave.
The "three little piggies", Jennifer, Kacy, and Stacy, started Piggy Pajamas to bring comfort and whimsy to pajama drawers everywhere! Our pjs are the softest around, and are made of thick luxurious organic cotton that stretches and moves with you. They are the perfect blend of responsible indulgence! For more information visit piggypajamas.com.

Yummi Pouch

Website | Facebook | Twitter

Yummi Pouch 2 sets of 6 reusable food pouches - Retail value: $30
Yummi Pouch reusable food pouches encourage healthy snacks for active kids. Our eco-friendly food pouches are freezer safe, dishwasher safe, BPA-free, Phthalate-free, and can be filled with healthy blended snacks and easily taken on the go, no spoon required. Our vision is to help moms and dads prepare healthy snacks for their active kids. Yummi Pouches are perfect to be filled with nutritious smoothies and purees prepared in batches, frozen or refrigerated, and easily consumed on the go. For more information visit yummipouch.com.

The Shrunks

Website | Facebook | Twitter

Indoor Tuckaire Toddler Travel Bed - Retail value: $79
Includes Air Mattress + Carry Bag + Electric Pump
The Toddler Travel Bed is perfect for sleepovers, travel, and for kids transitioning to a big bed. Kids feel secure and cozy, and right at home, thanks to the portable air bed’s unique design – standard sized crib sheets and blankets tuck into the inner air mattress. Constructed with the safest materials, The Shrunks Travel Beds are Phthalates-safe, BpA-safe and Lead-safe.
At The Shrunks, we believe that kids are cool. Creating stuff that makes bedtime fun and safe for them, wherever they are, is what we love to do. For more information visit theshrunks.com.

oogaa

Website | Facebook | Twitter

2 oogaa, baby silicone mealtime sets - Retail value: $33.98
Babyhood is a brief and precious time and we think it should be brilliant! Oogaa is all about kicking back against dull, plain and ordinary.That's why the stuff we make is bold, bright and engaging. We aim to enthrall your offspring – and make life as a parent easier too. For more information visit oogaa.com.

milkdot

Website | Facebook | Twitter

milkdot tangerine Stoh lunch tote - Retail value: $25
Stöh is a modern yet practical solution for a lunch bag that combines clean and simple design with features perfect for stowing your favorite food, drink and utensils and cool enough for the whole family to carry too. Sleek and timeless, Stöh is perfect for anyone looking for a stylish way to carry their meal on the go. It also folds flat for easy storage after use – making it the perfect travel companion. For more information visit milkdot.com.

Pura Stainless

Website | Facebook | Twitter

1 Pura Stainless Kiki bottle - Retail value: $19.99
Winner can choose color and size - 5oz infant, 11oz infant, or 11oz sippy
Pura is proud to offer the only 100% plastic-free feeding and drinking bottles on the global market. In addition, our bottles were designed with the Baby Grows... Bottles Evolves(TM) philosophy. All Kiki bottles transform from infant bottles to sippy bottles to water bottles as the child grows allowing for years of use. We are proud that our patented bottle system also operates with a wide range of industry leading nipples and spouts so Mom never has to use a inferior bottle because junior prefers a specific nipple!
Pura was conceived with a simple notion... to provide the safest and most adaptable juvenile feeding and adult hydration solutions to consumers around the world. We are proud to combine market-changing innovation with an award winning eco-progressive business model. Pura has been recognized with twenty one product and business awards propelling our brand into more than 35 countries. For more information visit purastainless.com.

The Patchwork Bear

Website | Facebook | Twitter

Keepsake Memory Clothes Bear - Retail value: $89
Everyone has favorite clothes saved away, full of stains and memories: baby/kids clothes, sports jerseys, college/team uniforms, race shirts... We preserve those memories and transform treasured clothes into a custom Patchwork Bear. For more information visit thepatchworkbear.com .

Enter to win this Fabulous Gift Set! Retail value: $400

This giveaway is open to the US and Canada. Each page you follow is an additional entry.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

How to Sprout Alfalfa Seeds (with a diy sprouter!)

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 21:09:00 +0000

I love sprouts so much! I love observing these tiny plants as they're growing and I love eating them. Especially now in winter that we tend to forget to eat raw foods, these delicate refreshing delights can make my day.

Alfalfa sprouts are a good source of protein, vitamin C, K and B vitamins too. They also contain important amounts of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and iron.

And guess what, it can be very easy and cheap to sprout. Wanna try it?

Step 1
Add 1 tbsp of alfalfa seeds in a mason jar. Pour some water until seeds are totally covered. Now cover the jar with a towel (you don't want to drown any flies or mosquitoes in there,right?). Now, let them soak overnight or at least 12 hours.

Step 2
Draining time! Cover the mouth of the jar with a clean piece of fabric. You can use cheescloth, pantyhose, gauze or any other thick weave fabric (I have tried tulle but the seeds were coming through). Secure with a rubber band and make sure it's very tight. I know this sounds silly but you really want to do this properly (I had a couple of accidents). Now, turn the jar upside down over the sink.

Step 3
Rinse and drain the seeds about three times. You need to keep them clean, right?

Step 4
Put the jar on its side like in the picture. You need to keep it away from direct sunlight. All you have to do for the next 3-4 days is repeating step 3 every about 12 hours. If the weather is hot, you need to do it one or even two more times during the day to avoid toxin and organism growing in the jar.

Step 5
After 3-4 days (if the weather is cold it may take a little longer) and if your sprouts look like those in the picture, get them out of the jar and take them to the sunshine for a little while.

Now they're ready to be eaten! Put some in your salad, sandwich, over your pudla or scrambled tofu and even on top of your soup. Little Nereus loves eating them plain!

You can store them in the fridge covered for about a week.

Have fun!

Favourite Things And Links

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 22:06:00 +0000

Not really relevent photo but I just couldn't resist. Nereus is the only kid I know who eats raw nuts and goji berry mix while watching a movie. ps. He never stays still, even when he's watching a movie.

First of all, congrats to the winner of our giveawaySzappanbubi !!! Check you mails!!!

These days have been difficult for me. Nereus caught a cold and then I caught it (we still have it). My camera lense has dust in it, taking the most aweful pictures and I don't know how to clean it. There's not to much work lately (therefore not much money too), but I'm actually working on a new project that I'm very excited about and I'm busy enough. I also want to make our place pretty and functional but the fact that we're probably won't stay here for long discourages me (my time and money are so little and precious) and eventually distresses me. Rainy days make it even worse. Ok, basically the rain must be the reason everything seems so aweful to me. Three days in a row is too much for me.

To make it a little worse, it seems that Nereus has eczema!!! I still have to do a lot of research cause I didn't even know what it is until a few days before, but do you know any natural remedies?

Besides all this darkness (to be a little dramatic) I feel good to be here right now, relaxed while Nereus naps. I'm drinking my last coffee. Now the jar is empty and I have nothing to tempt me while quitting it. I don't know if I'm going to completely stay away from it in the end. I'm thinking that I could have a cup of black coffee occasionally, but definitely not once or twice a day like I do now. It's too acidic to consume so much of it.

Below you can find my links. I hope you'll enjoy them!

Do you nurse your toddler and many times you feel frustrated? This helps me everytime!

I found this from tothesea. What City Should You Actually Live In? Portland for me...haha...I knew it!

Vegan tattoos for kids?! Nereus would have a blast...

Has anyone read this book? I think I'm starting this one after finishing all the uncompleted ones.

Speaking about books, are you a Goodreads member?

Still trying to find the perfect night to make this awesome (and fatty) dip and watch a movie with my man. There are gonna be beers too of course!

10 Benefits to Drinking Warm Lemon Water Every Morning

Are you sad because you tiny yard is covered by concrete? Then make sidewalk chalk and get crazy with your kid...our next project!!

Favourite etsy finds. One. Two. Three.

If you love taking photos, read these posts!

Also this. What a great business and an awesome opportunity!

Aaand because I want to finish this post in a positive way...

I am so honoured that my homemade vegan yogurt has gotten so popular! I feel honoured to be included in lists like this and this!

Also, thanks for having me back on the first page of Top Baby Blogs! Click on the button below to vote if you wish! Thank you very much!

Have an awesome week!

What I Ate Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Thu, 16 Jan 2014 20:33:00 +0000

This was a beautiful week full of consideration according food. I've been flirting with the idea of going sugar free again. I finished this book yesterday. It really helped with all these questions I had from the last time I quitted. In her book, Sarah Wilson, suggests to take it slowly, and for a long time I thought that cold turkey (hate this expession, is there any other way to say this in english...sorry I'm too greek) was my style, until I thought about all these times I have quitted something. From quit being a smoker, to being an omnivore, to eating sugar, to eating salt. I noticed a pattern. All these times it was happening slooowly until one day I was like ''ok, I'm stopping now''. This is what Sarah Wilson suggests in her book! I also realized that I've been doing this again unconsciously with sugar this past week. Well, not exactly, I stayed away from sweet treats, sweeteners etc. but fruits...well, I had lots of them! I have been actually replacing all the sweet treats I've been having with fruits. I decided to get rid of (aka eat) all the sweets in this house, from agave to apples and everything, before cutting back so I 'll have nothing to tempt me.

Have you been sugar free before?

Wanna try this with me?

This is what I ate yesterday, posted a little later than it should have.

Breakfast

I'm trying to start going to bed and waking up earlier again. I am way more productive in the early hours and generally it's better for me to have some time to get prepared for the new day before my little monster wakes up. It's hard after all these years of living in the night-sleeping in the day. I managed to wake up at 6 am today though and had a cup of herbal tea. Yogi tea of course, my fave!

Waking up early to get some work done is a tricky thing cause the little one wakes up very easily and wants to breastfeed. He then either falls asleep again or wakes up for good. Today, Nereus breastfed just a little bit and woke up veeery hungry. We got dressed and headed to the kitchen. He had almost half an avocado while I was mashing the rest for our awesome avocado toast on whole grain sprouted bread. We finished our toasts and shared a small glass of orange and blood orange juice.

Morning Snack

Green smoothie time! This one had coconut milk, a handful of parsley, 4 leaves or romaine lettuce, a few pineapple pieces, a banana, a teaspoon of chlorella and topping of flaxseed meal. See this little hand right there? He couldn't wait!

Lunch

I recently started trying to keep him from napping, so he would sleep early at night and I could get things done. Sometimes it works, while others he just can't keep his eyes open. That was a day like this. He was breastfeeding (yeah again, I know, he would be there all day if he could) and I was reading him a story, and before I realized he was asleep. I ate lunch alone. Red lentil soup, toasted bread with olive oil and oregano and olives.

Afternoon Snack

Nereus woke up, nursed a bit (I'm telling you he won't stop) and asked for apples. He had only a couple of slices. I offerd him a cup of oat milk. He drunk it all. I had his left overs and went to work for a couple of hours.

Dinner

Came home tired and hungry and found my men eating so I totally forgot about pictures and attacked our meal. Quinoa salad (the best I'm gonna share the recipe as soon as I can), roasted brussel sprouts and fries. Philip wanted to contribute to this meal, so...fries! We don't eat them often so I just indulged.

Green Smoothie Recipe & A Delicious Giveaway -CLOSED-

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Mon, 13 Jan 2014 23:02:00 +0000

Green smoothies are a favourite in this house. When I work mostly from home, they are an everyday habit. When I'm away from home many hours and indulge in junk food, they are the first thing I eat to feel good again.

My smoothies change from time to time according to what I feel I need, or what needs to be eaten to not end up to the dumpster. When I need something light, I use water or juice as liquid part and mostly fruits and veggies. When I am more in need of something that will keep me full I use nutmilks and add nut butters, coconut oil, seeds and vegan protein.

Smoothies are a good way to make sure my kid takes all the nutrients he needs. If one day, he hasn't eaten very well, I make him a smoothie. I add coconut oil, when he hasn't eaten enough fats. Flaxseed, chia or hemp seeds for his omegas. Protein powder, nut seeds and nut milks for extra protein and minerals.

Today, I'm gonna share with you an awesome recipe for a green smoothie. The Vanilla Almondila protein powder really does make the difference, although the smoothie tastes very good even without it.

Ingredients:
- One (very) ripe banana
- Juice of three oranges
- A few pieces of pineapple
- Goji berries
- A teaspoon of chlorella
- A tablespoon (or scoop) of Vanilla Almondila protein powder
- A handfull of spinach (not pictured)
- A probiotic capsule (not pictured either)

Directions:
Simply put everything in you blender. Remember that you forgot to add and photograph the spinach and the probiotics. Ask from the screaming little kid to be patient and add them without taking photos (does this sounds familiar to you?). Put in two glasses and share with your little one. Now, smile!

Cause one lucky reader is going to win a packet of Earth Circle Chlorella and a packet of Vanilla Almondila protein powder for his/her smoothies. How awesome is that? The giveaway is open worldwide! This is my first Rafflecopter giveaway so let me know if something doesn't work! Thanks and good luck!

Oh, and by clicking the links of this post to Iherb (my favourite shop to buy organic products), you automatically get up to $10.00 on your first purchase!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

What I Ate Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Wed, 08 Jan 2014 13:55:00 +0000

Last week, it was the first time I joined Jenn's link party named "What I Ate Wednesday". One of my all time favourite activities is stalking other people to see what they eat. What a pleasure it was when I found her blog, while I was at that phase that I was bored eating the same recipes (it was hard to experiment while our family was adjusting to my new life as a working mom). I had so much fun exploring what other bloggers ate last week of course, but most of all I was surprised by my own self! I found out that there are so many healthy eating habits that I have quitted. Sprouting, herbal infusions and tea making, green juices and smoothies, salads...foods that I used to have everyday and made me feel light and happy. I drink more coffee and alcohol than what I should. I eat chips and cookies for snacks. I want to change that.

This week I had less beer and coffee than usually. I brought zero sweet treats in the house...therefore I didn't eat any...ok, maybe I ate some of Philip's birthday cake but, I deserved it man, it took me a lot of time to make it! I had more raw fruits and veggies and almost every meal contained salad. I'm planning to be healthier again and I feel so good about it! I also bought this book for my kindle. By the way, since I failed to finish the 2013 Reading Challenge of 30 books (I started in the middle of the year, can this stand as an excuse?), I decided to keep a low profile and challenge myself to read 50 books this year. It's all about achievable goals, right?

Breakfast

Nereus and I had a bowl each with oats cooked in almond milk and topped with coconut butter, cacao nibs, hemp seeds and extra almond milk.

Morning Snack

Nereus had a walk with his grandma (my mother) and had a banana. It was the first time Nereus was out with someone else and and Philipand I were home. We didn't even know what to do haha. I even forgot to eat. No photos obviously.

Lunch

Homemade falafel with baked potatoes and sweet potatoes. White and purple cabbage salad with alfalfa sprouts on top. Nereus almost completely ignored his plate and wanted to breastfeed.

Afternoon Snack

Smoothie with banana, blueberry and pomegranate juice, spirulina, probiotics and topped with flaxseed meal.

I asked Nereus if he wanted a smoothie or a fruit salad. He said "futa", his own way to say fruits in greek. I made him a plate with goji, pear and banana (I totally forgot he had another one in the morning). This is a great trick for parents of toddlers by the way. By giving them the chance to choose something, they feel they have control over their lives which is something all toddlers want. Whenever I ask Nereus if he wants a smoothie or anything else I get a big fat no (unless if I offer spirulina, then it's always a yes)! When I give him the choice, most of the times, a get a peaceful accurate answer.

Dinner

We ordered pizza. I asked the vegetarian with no cheese. When it came, I took it out added some vegan cheese and left it in the oven to melt. The life of a vegan.

Nereus is the only kid I know who doesn't like pizza. I opened a pizza slice for this picky eater. He ended up eating just a little bit of the pizza crust, the vegan cheese and the olives. He's not really that much into food lately, he's definitely teething.

How We Celebrated This Year?

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Mon, 06 Jan 2014 17:40:00 +0000

This is typically the time that all bloggers share pictures of their homes decorated, making treats, preparing presents and everything christmas-y (ok, maybe this time has passed and I would have posted this about 2 weeks ago if the silly blogger app hadn't mess with my posts. aka deleted them. twice). To be honest, I had no time to decorate or anything else until christmas eve. And it's not just that, this year I also had to choose what my relationship with christmas would be.

A few years ago, I hated christmas. Not that much because of the religous part (although I used to be an angry atheist). I hated the fact that most people were being total assholes all year long but then...suddenly...oh-my-god-it's-christmas-let's-be-good-to-each-other. And when these days were ending they were coming back to their ugly selves. Not to mention the consumerism.

Although every year these days, I was turning to a real Grinch, when I became a mom, I felt different about christmas. I wanted to celebrate with and for my child (and I do every single day). The thing was how I would celebrate.

Last year he was too young, but now I could see his interest for christmas lights, santa, rudolf etc. The truth is that I don't want him to believe that there's an old man who brings whatever present Nereus asks. If he wants to use his (already crazy) imagination to make pictures of santa or anything else, that's ok with me and I'll use my (definitely crazy) imagination to play with him. But I will never ever lie to him to make him believe that santa ate the cookies or something. I want him to trust me and therefore I will never lie.

I made a little research and I learned a lot about how and what people celebrate these days. This could be an amazing activity to share with Nereus in a few years, too. It was an easy choice for me. I am not a relegious person, but I'd love to celebrate winter solstice and the coming of the new year.

I'm still working on it and I believe that I always will. Mostly because I don't know how Nereus will react to all these as he grows up. I know that maybe he'll want to do what other kids do and I guess I'll be going with my gut.

I want to make little family traditions though and for now, the plan goes like this....

Decoration...

We had nothing. At all. Last year my mother had given us her tree and ornaments (yes, she's awesome). But, what about this year? I had no intension to pay for a plastic tree that's gonna be here poluting our earth after we leave. The idea of giving money for having a real tree slowly dying in my living room was worse. Lack of space was an issue, too. And then, the idea came! I would buy a live plant in a pot so we can have it all year long!! I found a little fir tree that Nereus keeps calling a 'baby'. We made the ornaments for the tree ouselves and I also bought lights because who doesn't love lights?

Presents...

All our presents are selectively chosen and they all have a practical use. I wrapped them in this lovely brown paper and I'm planning to open them carefully, keep the paper and reuse it. The presents will be being opened on the morning of the new year. By the way, I was surprised to see all those gifts other bloggers received like mixers, laptops, cameras etc. and all of our gifts are like slippers, books, underwear...we are so poor haha! Seriously now, I don't underastimate our presents and I'm so grateful that I'm able to afford buying them. And I'm not jealous. I know I'm not gonna get any expensive presents in the near future and that's ok. And of course I hope everyone is happy with their presents. I just feel like I live in a different world sometimes. Maybe I am. Oh, I almost forgot...I decided to make a little tradition. That would be to take an amount of the extra money I make this time of the year and an amount of Nereus's money too and make a donation or helping someone in need. This year, because we didn't have much money but really wanted to give something, we donated $10 (I know, it's silly little but better than nothing) to PETA and I also donated $16 to become a PETA member and recieve interesting goodies.

This is just a silly last minute box for letters to santa I made for the job.

Traditions...
Well, lots of them in this country. First of all, we make (or buy) lots of sweet treats. Mostly non vegan and full of sugar. I'm thinking about veganising and adding other sweeteners instead of sugar. We didn't this year, but maybe we could do this in the future. On the eves, kids are singing christmas songs to
neighbors and get money. It's something similar to trick or treating. I'm not sure how this is going to work cause I would like Nereus to do this and I believe he would too but the song content is too religious related that I can't stand it sorry. This time, we sang Nereus's favorite kids song but in the future, if he wants to do it outside the family he'll have to learn the actual song and I'll have to relax a bit. I also found out that there's a lot of work for me this time of the year, but I'll be prepared for next year.

We took Nereus to the Christmas factory. Like last year, he rided the carousel this time with his dad. Later we all had a ride at the train. We danced a bit and left to grab some food.

How did you celebrated this year?

Anything special?

Any suggestions for funny activities for kids for christmas/winter solstice (for next year)?

2014 & What I Ate Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Fri, 03 Jan 2014 00:17:00 +0000

Happy New Year to everyone! How are you? I am fine but I also feel a little strange. This is the first time that the coming of the new year finds me so grounded. I usually feel excited and my head is full of plans and ideas to accomplish, but this time...I just wanna relax. I want things to keep being as they are. No changes. No big ones at least. If you know me well, you probably think I am crazy as everyone knows that routine is my worst enemy. I don't know, maybe all these changes that 2013 brought to my life have overwhelmed me. From being a SAHM to being a working mom who also works from home and keeps her parents' shop every Monday...to moving twice in 5 months...to being completely independent financially (I know, taken for granted by most people, but what a huge thing with the condition in this country)...to watching my baby becoming a spirited and strong willed toddler...to phew...what a year!!!

Right now, all I need is time to spend with my family. I will only work to finish my 23 before 23 list. I want to make this rental feel like home for us. I want to be a good mom for Nereus and a good partner for Philip. I also want a new pair a myopia glasses but damn you insurance people...I don't qualify to get the 100 euro off. And the Harry Potter trick with the tape doesn't work anymore, they broke in a second spot.

***

Anyways, I was thinking about our eating habits lately. They have certainly changed since I started working. We are not the we-eat-only-wholesome-homemade-food family, anymore. We still eat healthy colorful vegan food, but sometimes we do not! Nereus still doesn't eat sweet treats, with the exception of fruits and some molasses now and then...oh and he had a tiny bit of maple syrup for the first time last week cause he really wanted to try it. We all eat small amounts of salt. Philip spends many hours away because of his work and therefore he eats the meals I prepare only 1 or 2 times a day. And even when we eat together, as an omnivore, he sometimes eats something different.

So, at this new post that I'm gonna be repeating as often as I can, I will be writing down and taking photos of all the meals Nereus and I have all day long. This day is not gonna be a Wednesday, but a day that I get to spend with him so I can document all of our meals. I wish I could write these posts every week, but I know that I probably won't be able to follow so we'll see.

By doing these kinds of posts I want to start a (very) slow improvement to my eating habits. I think I'll cut back on sugar again cause I think I've been addicted again. That would be a good opportunity to check what Nereus eats after the end of the Vegan Baby Led Weaning posts. So, here we go!

Breakfast

Days always start with coffee. Always. No milk, no sweetener.

I also had a grain-seed-fruit-nut bar cause I can't have coffee without something to eat with. Nereus stole some of this when he realised I was eating. I'm telling you, this kid wakes up hungry!

Now, this is our real breakfast. Cooked muesli with rice milk fortified with calcium. Little raisins and dried banana slices in there too. Pear. Nereus had two bowls of cereal and most of the pear. I starved...just kidding.

Morning Snack

Well, we skipped this cause we woke up kind of late and our breakfast has been filling enough.

Lunch

Totally a junk food lunch. I spent the day at home, but for some reason I got so lazy and ordered food. Souvlakia of course, because we're fucking greek people. From left to right, souvlaki with pita bread, fries, onion, lettuce and mustard. Up, pita bread and down homemade yogurt dill sauce (divine) I made while we were waiting for the delivery. Fried zucchini. Fries.

Afternoon Snack

Green smoothie. Ok, that was one of the best smoothies I've ever had. Seriously. We couldn't get enough. By the way, smoothies are my favourite meals to share with Nereus. Mostly because he gets so excited about our smoothie mustaches!

Dinner

Dinners are being eaten early here. 19:00 pm. As I said I got lazy and I'm so grateful that my grandmother made vegan pumpkin pie for us.

Late Night Snack

After Nereus sleeps, I get the chance to clean up a bit, get some work done and if I'm lucky enough I get to blog too! I just realized that more times than not I'm having a beer (or wine) and junk food salty snacks. This time I'm having a Kaiser beer and Lay's sweet chili whole wheat cereal snack with wheat, oats and corn...I'm basically translating what's written on the packet making it sound healthy...haha.

Tutorial: Salt Dough Ornaments

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Tue, 31 Dec 2013 13:44:00 +0000

Hello everyone! I hope you're spending lots of time with loved ones or doing anything else you like. I had a little extra free time these days and wrote a couple of posts but thanks to the idiot blogger app they have been deleted twice!!! I never thought I would be so mad with an app. And to be honest a few months ago I didn't even know what an app is. All I cared about was my little man of course. But now, I'm a working mom who needed a tablet for the job.

Talking about tablet...I have Instagram now!!! You can follow me by clicking the link on the sidebar below.

---

About the salt dough, now! I remember my mother making salt dough for us while we were kids. She was always so creative when she had the time to play with us. So beautiful memories.

I decided to make the ornaments for our tree with Nereus for many reasons. Firstly, because I had no intention to pay for objects that exist only for decorational purposes. Secondly, I wanted to create beautiful memories with him and thirdly, because it's an amazing montessori activity!

On to the tutorial now!
It's so cheap and easy to make this dough with (or without if you don't have any) your kids. You probably already have all the ingredients.

Ingredients:
-2 cups flour
-1 cup salt
-1 cup water

making holes to the dough (totally optional but so much fun for this toddler)

Directions:
1. Mix the dry ingredients.
2. Add the water gradually (you may not need it all).
3. Knead for a few minutes and form a ball.
4. Flour your surface lightly (you need to do this so the dough won't stick there). Roll out the dough and make shapes with cookie cutters or freehand.
5. Make a hole on the top of the shapes (I used a drinking straw).
6. Bake at 100 C/ 212 F for about two hours*(check tips).
7. Let them cool down. Thread ribbon or string and hang on the tree.

Tips:

The baking time depends on how thick your ornaments are and by your oven of course. I suggest to check them often after the first hour of baking and when they are hard enough they're ready.
Baking at higher temperatures may speed up the process but the ornaments may puff up and/or become brown. I don't suggest that.
You can paint and decorate them with glitter after they have competely cooled down.
Yes, there's gonna be a mess! Relax and have fun with your kid!

Guess who made this...

Favourite Things And Links

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Sat, 14 Dec 2013 21:43:00 +0000

Hello everyone! This is my new feature here on the blog. Every now and then I'll be sharing with you all the amazing stuff I find on the internet. I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I do!

I'm busy, as always since I started working. I work a lot from home too, which is a tricky thing. I'm living happily and making time to spend with this little monkey.

Oops! I almost forgot. I wrote a post for Julie's blog a few days ago. Check it out if you want!

A man talking about breastfeeding. In public.

How owning 160 plates has saved money to this family. I know, it sounds weird but think about the environmental impact.

Are you mad with all the cables around the house? Try this!

These books are going to be my next purchases. One. Two. Three.

I want to eat these now!

13 Ways to Become More Productive.

Do you find yourself critisizing your partner? Read this article.

Raise your words, not your voice.

Did you know that plastic straws are not recyclable? I love these glass ones.

These wooden toys are amazing!

I challenge myself to do yoga more regularly.

Great blog about parenting the Waldorf way.

Sponsor in December

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Wed, 04 Dec 2013 19:58:00 +0000

Hello everyone!

Are you interested in sponsoring Fairytale Comes Alive?

With Christmas approaching everyone wants some extra sales and/or more site traffic.
So, if you're a blogger, have a little (or big) business, etsy shop or other site and you want to be advertised, I would love to work with you!

I offer super affordable ad fees is because I want to give the chance to everyone to promote their site without having to spend a fortune. And for the first time here, I'm sharing the price (why I haven't done this earlier?)

Large $15.00
Only one spot per month. Always at the top of all other ads for maximum exposure. Individual feature post (giveaway, review, interview, guest post, home or studio tour or any other idea you might have). Mentions on social media (facebook, twitter, pinterest pins) and blog posts. Link on my new "Favourite Things" monthly post where I share the interesting things I find on the internet.

Medium $10.00
Located directly below the Large ad. Mentions on social media (facebook, twitter, pinterest pins). Link on my new "Favourite Things" monthly post where I share the interesting things I find on the internet.

Small $5.00
Located directly below the Medium ads. Mentions on social media (facebook, twitter, pinterest pins).

Happy December to everyone!!!

A choice for your baby's health

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Tue, 26 Nov 2013 06:36:00 +0000

I don't know if I have ever shared anything about my pregnancy here, before. I wish I had my blog back then so I could have document everything. I had a very nice and relaxed pregnancy. Philip and I were living in Santorini, an amazing greek island. I wasn't working most of the time and I had plenty of time (sometimes more than I could handle). Unfortunately I had no internet access and also no friends around. Therefore it took me a loooong time to realize that I was actually pregnant. One month before I had Nereus, I was back in Athens, searching for a house to rent and preparing for the baby to come (yes, I did all these just a month before my baby came to this world).

Thinking about my pregnancy and labor, I see so many mistakes. Lack of education mistakes. If I could go back I would change many things. Things that I'm still struggling to accept. I know that I can't do anything to change these past events, but if I can inspire a mama to be to make a choice that's better for her child, that's a victory for me.

Let me talk to you about something you can do for your baby's health. Have you heard about stem cells?

Through cord blood banking, you can collect and preserve potentially lifesaving stem cells, and doing so could one day save the life of your child or a blood relative. You can bank even more stem cells by collecting them from 2 usable sources of stem cell-rich blood: the umbilical cord and the placenta. This service is called Placental and Cord Blood Banking, and it's available only from LifebankUSA. Whether you choose Placental and Cord Blood Banking or Cord Blood Banking alone, there are many important reasons to choose LifebankUSA.

I would really like to hear your opinion about this matter. Have you kept your baby's cells?

I wish I could have taken this step. And if you can, even though it costs and I know that it's not easy for everyone, I believe you should do it. It's all about our little ones health, right?

Also, LifebankUSA is having a Facebook contest and giving away 3 Britax Marathon 70G3 Convertible Car Seats with a value of $231.99 each!!! Enter the contest here! Contest ends at 12/31/13.

This post is sponsored, but every word here comes from my heart. I would never promote something that I don't believe in!

Almond - Coconut Butter Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Mon, 18 Nov 2013 21:02:00 +0000

While trying to find ways to put the good stuff into my vegan baby’s belly, I came up with this recipe for almond coco butter. This is the tastier, healthier, greater nut butter ever! Contains only two ingredients! Yes two! NO sugar, NO additives. Just the fresh natural ingredients you’ll pick. Only the best for our children, right? And guess what? It tastes divine. Everyone that ever tasted this agrees.

Do you search for healthier options for you and your family? Do you like the taste of coconuts and almonds? Do you like making everything from scratch? Then gather your ingredients, take the blender out and let’s get started.

What you’ll need…

Ingredients:

-1 cup organic almonds (about 100 gr)

-1,5 tablespoon organic pure coconut oil

Materials:

-A blender

-A spatula (a spoon will work too)

Throw the almonds in the blender and process for a few minutes. Stop the process a few times to scrap the almonds that stuck on the blender’s sides so every piece gets processed. After about 8 minutes throw the coconut oil in. You don’t have to turn of your blender just make sure it’s not on high. Process until it looks buttery. Taste…and you can officialy die now! Just put it in a mason jar and put it in the fridge before you do.

Usually nut butters contain sugar and salt. As long as they’re added for flavour and they’re not necessary I prefer not to include them. I think it’s so tasty that doesn’t need any sweetener. But, if you are addicted to the store bought nut butters and you are not ready for this transition, you can add a little bit of brown sugar (try with a teaspoon and taste…adjust to your liking) and a pinch of salt.

This makes a little less than 250 gr and stays in the fridge for at least two weeks.

ps. I buy lots of my food and supplements from IHERB . It's an amazing site that sells a wide variety of products from organic food to supplements to natural baby toys and essentials. And in very good prices too. With every purchase you make from the links in this blog post, I earn a little but very important and helpful amount of money. I truly believe in this company and I wouldn't promote something that I don't believe in. Also, if you are a first time costumer, by buying from my links, you get $10 off your first purchase of $40 or more and $5 off orders totaling less than $40. How awesome is that?

23 Before 23

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Sat, 16 Nov 2013 07:53:00 +0000

Better later than never, I guess. On 13th of July I became 22 (woot woot). My birthday cake was a delicious vegan tropical cheesecake made by me of course, in case you were wondering. Man, what a trip this year has been. Probably the hardest year of my life. Too much sadness and despair. But luckily, things are already a loooot better. Although my life took a completely different direction than the one I wanted (I was hoping that I could go to my village, build a cob house, grow veggies etc.), it seems that this is actually working. I'm really satisfied with my life right now. We still have problems that we're working on but no that thing...no, a lot better!

Into the good stuff now. I have written this list a few months ago. In this photo, you can see how we are this moment as I'm typing these words. I'm having a coffee while sitting on my couch, blogging and snuggling with my (always) breastfeeding baby. The weather is finally rainy (not that I especially wanted that) and hugs on the couch are necessary. Unlike with the 22 before 22 list, I'll do everything to accomplish all of my goals or at least most of them. And if I won't move again, I will.

Before my 23 birthday I'm planning to...

1. Get a driving licence.

2. Finish my reading challenge with success (I have to hurry up!).

3. Make a beautiful yard and a veggie garden.

4. Have many plants is my house.

5. Start composting.

6. Have another tattoo.

7. Have a picnic.

8. Make our life more ecological.

9. Do more yoga and meditation.

10. Organise Nereus's space according to Montessori's ideas.

11. Sell something on my shop.

12. Make our new rental a warm space.

13. Start baby swimming.

14. Start crocheting.

15. Make my own deodorant.

16. Baptize Nereus.

17. Potty train Nereus.

18. Make a donation.

19. Take Nereus to a live concert.

20. Have a vacation trip with my two men.

21. Get some 'me' time once in a while.

22. Plan a party for Philip's birthday (he deserves it).

23. Finish those damn scarves that have been on my list forever.

***

Check out my previous years goal lists...

21 Before 21

22 Before 22

A gift for my mum

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Mon, 11 Nov 2013 18:47:00 +0000

When my mother was pregnant, she desperately wanted a girl. What a happy moment when she learned that she would actually have one. On her second pregnancy, she didn't mind the sex cause she already had the girl she wanted (and so my brother was born). While I was growing up, my mother was realizing that things with me were not as girly as she expected. I remember her calling me a truck driver all the time.

It was not easy for her to accept that her little girl had a dirty mouth and wanted no hair clips on her head. Finally, she accepted it and although we have many conflicts, she's my favourite. She's the one who has practically helped me the most on the most difficult parts of my life. I thank her so much for this and for her name celebration, I made her the girliest cupcakes and cakepops (vegan of course).

More Changes-A Different House

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Thu, 07 Nov 2013 21:02:00 +0000

Do you know that crazy lady who disappears from the blogland and then suddenly comes back just to say "hey, I'm here", and then disappears again?

Yes, this is me!

And I have a story to tell you!

I remember, one year and few months ago, I was physically and emotionally exhausted by our movement from our rental to my parents' house. What a hit for our ego! I remember something I told Philip these days. That I wasn't going to leave my parents' place, unless I was moving to my own house. Now, I understand how desperate he must have felt cause he knew, we would never be able to afford buying a house. What I wanted to say though, is that I hated moving. Not moving in general, I kinda like that. But moving with a baby, without money and no help.

In the last three years, since I met Philip, I have moved six times. Six times!! In three years! We have lost many of our belongings, my furniture have been scratched (yes, I cried), we have spent way too much money -money that we could really use for important stuff- for transportation and ordering food cause we had no stove and more. And every single time the same thought in my head "I'm not moving again...".

And here I am now, after four-five months since we rented our previous house and we're moving again! No, actually we have already moved. We had a very difficult month with no internet, no table, not this, not that. But the worst thing, was Nereus. He refused to eat for a week, with the exception of some spirulina tablets and cookies (now that mama works Nereus gets to eat junk food...that's organic cookies sweetened with grape juice) . He wouldn't play, shower or use the potty. All he wanted was to breastfeed all day long. This time it affected him so much...my poor little man.

Things are getting easier as we adapt in our new house. I'm working on creating a daily rythm for us, and even with our crazy working schedules, it seems to be working. I'm also trying to make this house more toddler friendly. Nereus wants to do everything "mono" as he says (this means by himself in greek) and I want him to be able to be as independent as he wants.

So to make up for lost time, If you want to sponsor us for November, contact me as soon as possible at fairytalecomesalive(at)gmail(dot)com . I'm going to introduce the new blogs you see on my sidebar on my 'November sponsors' post. Just let's hope I won't move out again hehe!

Oh, I almost forgot, this house is still a mess. I think it will take some time until it feels nice and cosy but, I'll share with you some bits and pieces from what makes me happy in here.

Indoor plants and books.

In my tiny house, I want everything to have a practical use. But, I couldn't resist when I saw this guy at a second hand store. I took him for five euros and now he has a shelf just for him. ps. I have dusted the day before I swear.

These two...cooking.

"How to eat chinese food" lessons by a toddler. Step 1) Get your chopsticks on one hand. Step 2)Grab some noodles with your other hand and put them in your mouth. Success!!

And this is what takes huge amounts of my time and energy. Here dressing up to be a clown. I love my job so much!

No words.

I also want to congratulate my friend Desiree who became a mother for the third time!!!
I can't wait to see more photos of her beautiful baby on the blog this time!

Advertise in October

noreply@blogger.com (krysta) — Tue, 01 Oct 2013 20:24:00 +0000

Hello again!

First of all, I have an announcement to make...

...we're moving again!!!

Just when I finally began getting used to this house and having a routine and stuff...oh, yes we're leaving this place. We found a house that is supposed to be better, so yes we're moving. The truth is that I'm exhausted and that I didn't even wanted to hear about changing my place. I don't know how I decided to do it. My house is full of boxes and most of our stuff are in them.

These days are going to be really crazy...I mean, I'll be trying to find the balance between being a mother, a business woman (hehe), a partner, a friend, a daughter etc. while moving out...ha! this time I'm lucky enough for having people willing to help. Oh, and the weather is great. And everything's good!

Anyway, I made this post to tell you that I'm accepting sponsorship for October. It turned out that while I was not here (most of the time), I had many many visitors. I thought that most of my readers would have forgotten me, but I was surprised to see my everyday readers becoming doubled. And I was not blogging!!! If you want these guys to visit your site too, consider purchasing an add spot. Contact me on at afairytalecomesalive(at)gmail(dot)com for more info.

Have a wonderful week!!!