FrederickMommies

We're on our way!!!

2012-05-23T08:00:00.000-04:00

We're soaring high with your help!
The Mommies Network is in the running for a fundraising marketing package that will increase our development efforts. A free ONCORE package from Eleventy Group's 4Good contest will benefit all our members by raising funds with less effort. More money means a better network for mommies across the nation.
Join our facebook event to vote and share. A minute of your time is all it takes.
With gratitude,
The Mommies Network

The Mommies Network needs your help!

2012-05-21T08:00:00.000-04:00

The Mommies Network is a finalist non-profit in Eleventy Group's 4Good contest With a simple click to vote and another to share, you can help boost TMN's fundraising power. Better fundraising means technology upgrades, an expanding network, and more time for our volunteers to focus on what they do best: make mom-to-mom connections everyday.

Join our facebook event to spread the word that will help us spread our wings. Voting costs nothing but a minute of your time.

From everyone at The Mommies Network, thanks for your support.

May Playgroup Coordinator of the Month!

2012-05-11T08:00:00.000-04:00

Congrats to Kim!

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

Hello my name is Kim and I'm a SAHM to my 10 month old son Jackson. I'm originally from Columbia, MD but moved to Frederick 4 years ago for work and just recently moved to Middletown only 4 months ago. My husband and I own two local businesses, one in Frederick and one in Mt Airy. I enjoy baking, taking walks with my son, vacations to the beach, and warm weather!

2. How does it feel being the first Playgroup Coordinator of the Month?

It feels awesome! When I took over the Rollers and Crawlers coordinator we practically no participation. The playgroup has now grown to 8-10 regular moms and many new moms joining in!

3. When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was younger, I wanted to be a doctor. Clearly, that never happened! I love my job of being a mommy! I have enjoyed both the good and bad of staying at home with my son and I wouldn't trade it for any other job.

4. What are the top three essential items a playgroup hostess should have for the playgroup? What about the top three things for a mommy coming to a playgroup?

The top three essential items for a hostess would be a safe, child proof room for the children to play in, toys, and snacks for the children and moms! The top three items for a mom coming to a playgroup would be toys to share, snacks, and an open mind to other parenting ideas/tips/advice.

Avatar of the Month!

2012-05-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

Congrats to Ashley!

May Moderator of the Month!!

2012-05-07T08:00:00.000-04:00

Congrats to Staci!!

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

I'm Staci, working wife to Walter, mom to Samantha and Emilie and step-mom to Kelly, Jaime and Ryan. I have been a member of FM since 2006. I have met some of my closest friends since joining. When I'm not working or running around with the kids, I enjoy relaxing with a good book.

2. Who was your movie/TV star crush as a teenager?

I'm going to go with Johnny Depp. Who didn't have a crush on him?

3. Besides Washington County, have you lived anywhere else? What did you like about it?

I grew up in Florida for the most part. I have lived throughout MD, PA, SC, TN and a couple weeks in IL for boot camp. Other than my hometown, I loved TN. If I ever retire, I'd love to move back there.

4. Name your top three things to do in Washington County. Have you found "The Best" place to eat in Washington County? Where?

Top 3, hmm...
1. Riding bikes down the rail.
2. Hiking through the parks.
3. Of course, I love the MNI/MNO.

The best place to eat. This is a hard question. We have our normal places to eat when it's the whole family. If it's just Walter and I, we like to hit up all of the little mom and pop diners around just trying them out.

Kid's Closet Connection Sale! Check it out!

2012-05-04T08:00:00.000-04:00

Kid's Closet Connection Sale is a huge children's used clothing, toys and book sale that will be held at the Frederick County Fairgrounds May 4-6th. next week! Register to consign by visiting their website at www.kidscloset.biz/frederickcounty or just come and shop. Over 30,000 items expected. Visit the website for more detailed information. Don't forget to friend us on Facebook at Kids Closet Connection of Frederick County, MD to receive up-to-date information.

Building 12

797 East Patrick Street

Frederick, MD

Wordless Wednesday - by Rania

2012-05-02T08:00:00.000-04:00

Park Adventures! by Kim - Kingbrook Community

2012-04-30T08:00:00.000-04:00

Just how good are the parks around Frederick? How about those little parks that no one talks about??? Well, this is my goal - go to a new park and tell you about it.

First on our journey will be a small local park within the Kingbrook Community. This park is located off of Duke Ct. This park my son and I frequent often. It is just across the street but it is a good size for us. This park is ideal for the younger kids. But, any age would have fun.

Featured at this park is a swing set equipped with two regular swings and two baby swings. A small jungle gym with a slight curve slide on one side and a dual straight slides on the other. Plus, a "car " wheel at the top of the jungle gym. This play area is boxed in and the "floor" is mulch/wood chips. It has two benches where parents can sit and watch the children play as well as a trash can.

This is a park designed for the locals for a nice get away and great place to spend the afternoon outside in the fresh air.

Make sure to read next time to see what park we go to next. Can't wait to see you there!

THANK YOU!!

2012-04-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

This lady helped to make our Birthday Bash a huge success! Please visit her website and schedule some fitness time with her!

FrederickMommies would like to thank Get Heidi Fit!

Get Heidi Fit owner and instructor, Heidi, is originally from Shawnee, Kansas. She started her active career as a cheerleader, where she cheered for the University of Kansas co-ed cheerleading squad. After receiving her degree at KU, she continued onto work in healthcare in physical therapy and rehabilitation. She spent six seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs
Cheerleaders, where she appeared on the cover of the swimsuit calendar, served as captain, wellness director, choreographer and variety show performer traveling all over the world.
A 2010-2011 USA Science Cheerleader, Zumba Fitness Instructor, Going Pro Entertainment Regional Director/Consultant, Heidi is a certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor, coaching people every day in fitness and nutrition. She also works as the marketing coordinator for a local medical practice, American Spine Center, in Frederick, Maryland.

Class Schedule:

Monday/Wednesday 5:30 pm Zumba
Tuesday/Thursday 6:00 pm Toning 6:30 pm Zumba
Classes are held at Chic Physique M-Thursday.

For more information, visit www.GetHeidiFit.com or email getmefit@GetHeidiFit.com.

Ready. Set. Get Heidi Fit.

THANK YOU!!

2012-04-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

This lady helped to make our Birthday Bash a huge success! Please visit her websites and have your next photo taken with her!

FrederickMommies would like to thank j.a.s. photography!

j.a.s. photography is a Washington, DC, metro area portrait photographer. The emphasis is on photography on location that helps clients have a fun, relaxed experience. j.a.s. photography believes photos are a fun and beautiful way to tell the life stories that are important to you!

www.facebook.com/jasphotographydc

THANK YOU!!

2012-04-11T08:00:00.004-04:00

These two businesses helped to make our Birthday Bash a huge success! Please visit their websites!

FrederickMommies would like to thank Fun Bus!

The FUN BUS is a full-sized school bus equipped with tumbling equipment to provide children (ages 18 months to 7 years) with FITNESS FUN at day cares and preschools as well as special events and birthday parties. The FUN BUS never moves with children on board. It is climate controlled (Heat and A/C) to ensure a comfortable environment year around. Classes and parties are facilitated by two trained instructors in a structured format.

www.funbuses.com/frederick-county

FrederickMommies would like to thank Princess Day Spa & Boutique!

Princess Day Spa & Boutique is a new upscale party destination that offers a wide array of entertainment and party services for every princess.

We offer several ultra-chic and extraordinarily fun themed events for tots, tweens and teens. All events include themed dress up, age appropriate make up and lots of fun arts, crafts and activities.

Located in the heart of historic Frederick, Maryland, Princess Day Spa & Boutique specializes in designing magical birthday parties and unforgettable celebrations that are fun, exciting and encourage a positive self-image.

For more information, visit us at
www.princesspartymagic.com.

We are located at
115 East Patrick Street
Frederick, MD 20701
(301) 732-5071

THANK YOU!!

2012-04-09T08:00:00.004-04:00

These three ladies help to make our Birthday Bash a huge success! Please visit their websites and order from t

hem!

FrederickMommies would like to thank Dawn Lajoie!

Gigi Hill is where fashion meets function and makes

YOU fabulous. Our bag designers have thought of everything and they make it available to you a lot more reasonably than some of those other bag designers. These bags are made BY Moms FOR Moms. I'd love the opportunity to convert you!

website: www.gigihillbags.com/dawnlajoie

email: dawnhklajoie@gmail.com
540-336-4614

FrederickMommies would like to thank Samantha Oravec!

I started my Creative Memories business in 2007. I had created an album of my son's first year. His favorite thing to do was sit down with me and point to the people in the pictures and ask me to tell him "(his) story". I realized how important it was to preserve life's special moments (and sometimes the "ordinary" ones) because one day our present will be our childrens' history. I love helping people create their own traditional albums or digital Storybooks so that no one's history is lost in a shoebox of old photos. Of all the things you could leave behind for the ones you love, nothing is more meaningful than your photos and personal stories! Whether you prefer traditional scrapbook albums, foolproof "slide" photo albums, or quick and easy digital Storybooks, I can help you tell your story-your way!

website: www.mycmsite.com/samoravec,
email: samanthaoravec@comcast.net

FrederickMommies would like to thank Elizabeth Fiore-Irvine!

Elizabeth has been a nanny since 2003 and it has been the best 9 years of her life. Kids have always been her passion from teaching riding lessons to ballet and she started babysitting at the age of 11. She worked for the same family for over 6 years and her girls are now both at Maret School in 5th and 7th grades and they both ride and dance. Feel free to contact her for your next night on the town your kids will in great hands!

In addition to babysitting, Elizabeth also donated horse riding lessons. The farm has been in operation since 1980 in Middleburg Va. In the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. We travel the A circuit and have shown in over 13 countries. We believe in fostering a special bond between horse and rider and taking them all the way to the top.
Please contact Elizabeth at 540-295-0163 for information on babysitting or horse riding.

Diva of the Month - April 2012!

2012-04-06T08:00:00.002-04:00

Congratulations Kelly!

1) How does it feel to be voted the Diva of the Month?

It’s awesome! I love sharing all the things I hear or read with other women in the group.

2) Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I’m a stay at home mom of two crazy children, a blogger (www.waypastfab.com), a sales consultant for Paperly (www.MyPaperly.com/KellyE), a homeschooler, a gardener and a gluten free baker! When I’m not busy with all of these things I try to spend time with my wonderful husband, Dominic.

3) What did you think about FM's Birthday Bash?

I thought the party was wonderful! But I think we need to get more moms at these events. I also think we need to be forced to talk to each other by playing some “getting to know you” games. I’m horribly shy and I know I’m not the only shy mom in the group.

4) Since you are a Domestic Goddess, give us 3 tips.

Hmmmm. Three domestic tips.

The less stuff you have the easier it is to clean! No joke! Make sure to weed out anything that you don’t love or use frequently.
Everything needs a home. If you can’t find a home for it go back to number one again.
Find a space for you. Pick one room in the house besides your bedroom that will remain toy free and make it pretty. Keep this room picked up and ready to receive family and guests and as a place for you to relax. Keeping this room “always ready” means that you will always have a cheerful retreat when the kids are napping!
I have to slip this in too… no one is perfect! Invite your friends over even when your house is a mess! We have all been there so don’t worry.

Avatar of the Month! - Thanks Kim!

2012-04-05T08:00:00.000-04:00

Moderator of the Month - April 2012!

2012-04-02T08:00:00.000-04:00

Congratulations Amy!

1) How does it feel to be voted the Moderator of the Month?

Pretty Cool to know that what I am contributing is being acknowledged! I am only a co-moderator so I was surprised that I was chosen. But it is a great honor and I am excited about it!

2) Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I became a mom shortly after turning 20. I am originally from the "Jersey Shore" (not literally I really am though) moved in Maryland in 2005 for college. I attended American University and have a Bachelor's in Political Science graduating in 2007. I also have a Master's in Elementary Education through WGU (2010). I love teaching and hope to teach fulltime when my youngest goes to school.

I moved to Frederick County almost 2 years ago and currently live in New Market (Lake Linganore). It is a great place to raise a family, great schools, pools and beaches.
I am currently a Stay at home mom to Carleigh (5) and Carter (2). I am just enjoying life. I am blessed to have a wonderful husband (Brian), family and friends.

3) What did you think about FM's Birthday Bash?

The birthday bash was really neat. It is nice to go to events where you can just let your kids run around and play and then you can catch up with other mommies.

4) Since you are a Young Mommy, what are the easiest and hardest things about being a Young Mommy?

One of the easiest is having enough energy to keep up with my very active kids.
One of the hardest things was adjusting to motherhood at such a young age. None of my friends from school had kids so it was hard for me to relate to them. That is why the Young Mommies group is so important to me. I can really relate to them we have a lot of things in common. All in all though I would not change being a mom for a minute my kids mean everything to me!

Women's Heart Disease

2012-03-16T08:00:00.001-04:00

We ran out of room for this great post last month, so here it is now!

February is a month of love. Where hearts are everywhere you turn and love is in the air, but not just for Valentine's Day. It is also Women's Heart Disease awareness month, so ladies, this month wear your hearts on your sleeves proudly and love yourself!!!

According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in the United States, causing 26% of the deaths in women in 2006. That is more than one out of every four women! A little deeper perspective, my grandmother has 4 daughters; that means statistically speaking, of these 5 women, 2 will die from heart disease. Why is this such a damaging disease process for women? Primarily because it is a silent progression for most women, about 2/3rds of those who die suddenly from heart disease do not have any symptoms that would signal something is wrong. Heart disease in women is different from heart disease in men in that it occurs more in the smaller blood vessels that bring blood to the heart in women, rather than one main blockage in a major vessel of the heart in men. This is why women's symptoms are vague and can include the following:

Neck, shoulder, and upper back pain
Shortness of breath
Nausea and vomiting
Sweating
Lightheaded/dizziness
Unusual fatigue

During a heart attack, the typical crushing pain and/or pressure can also be present in women, but it does not have to be. It is important that women know the signs and symptoms of a heart attack and seek help immediately. Time wasted is heart tissue lost!

It is also vital to know your risks for heart disease regardless of age. Know your family history if possible and start preventative measures early. You are at risk of developing heart disease if you have high cholesterol and/or blood pressure; if you are overweight, obese, have diabetes, and are sedentary in your lifestyle; if you use alcohol, have a poor diet, mental stress, and depression. Prevention can be as simple as healthy diet choices and exercise to as complex as medication additions and supplements. Work with your physician to develop the prevention plan that is right for you. Love your Heart, be your own Valentine this year.

Some excellent resources for more information are:
www.cardiosmart.com
www.cdc.gov
www.mayoclinic.com

DIY: Custom Fabric Art

2012-03-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

This is a great project for repurposing fabric you may have around the house from window treatments or bedding into custom sized fabric art (finally a use for those odd sized pieces of fabric!). We recommend using heavier weight, non stretch fabrics as they are easier to work with and ensure that the backing frame will not be visible through the fabric. IKEA has a fabulous range of heavy weight cotton fabrics with bold graphics and patterns, at great price points.

Materials & Tools

A. Iron

B. Fabric(s) to be framed

C. Gun stapler

D. Tape measure

E. Fabric scissors

F. Nail gun (if you do not have access to a nail gun, screws or nails are fine to use)

G. Power saw (a hand saw is fine to use if you do not have an electric saw)

H. Safety goggles

I. Pen & paper to plot out measurements

J. Wood for frame 1" x 2"

Step 1: Lay out fabric print side up and iron

Step 2: Measure the width and height of the area to be framed. Add an additional six inches to the width and height measurements, this allows an extra 3" of fabric on all sides to ensure you will have enough fabric to wrap around the frame. With the reverse side of fabric facing up, rule out the measurements onto fabric.

Step 3: Cut out piece of fabric to be framed.

Quick tip: Lining up straight edges of fabric and/or using a T-square ruler will ensure you get a straight cut.

Step 4: Measure and mark frame dimensions onto wood.

Step 5: Cut wood. If you are using a hand saw, clamp the wood to a solid surface before cutting.

Step 6: Arrange the cut pieces of wood into the frame ensuring that they are square and evenly aligned.

Step 7: Secure or clamp frame to a stable surface. If using a nail gun put three nails into each corner (two screws in each corner is sufficient if nailing manually).

Step 8: Spread out fabric reverse side up and lay frame on top, ensuring that there is an even amount of fabric distributed around all sides.

Step 9: Staple the fabric to the frame a couple of times starting at the middle of one side, and then pulling the fabric taut (without stretching), repeat on the opposite side. Working from the center of each side, continue stapling toward the frame corners.

Step 10: The corners are the last areas to be stapled. Pinch the remaining corner fabric together and pull taut away from frame.

Step 11: Create a crisp pleat into fabric and fold toward frame corner.

Step 12: Staple in place.

Step 13: Hang your new piece of art and enjoy! If you have chosen fabric with an ambiguous design, a nice benefit is that the canvas can be hung vertically or horizontally.

Used with permission from http://www.pureenergycreative.com/

Children and Sickness/Flu/Colds etc...

2012-03-12T08:00:00.000-04:00

How are you? How are your little ones? Have you and/or your little ones been affected by this cold and flu season? This cold and flu season has been a bit of struggle with us (and so many others around our FrederickMommies Family!). Being that my son is not 2 years old yet, we had to be creative to help him feel better when he was "sick". He wasn't able to take cough-medicine, he couldn't take a cough-drop, oh and the congestion... I have used so many bottles of saline drops I stopped counting! Our pediatrician said their hands were tied and couldn't give him a prescription for anything as he didn't have a fever and no sign of infection. Which, on one hand was great -No infection!! Then, how do I make him feel better, be comfortable. I searched over the counter medicines, I searched the internet, I took notes and suggestions from other Mommies.

We found a few remedies that seemed to help; we used eucalyptus in his bath, I rubbed it onto his chest a few times during the day, we raised his crib, ran the humidifier in his room and in the family room, we took many steamed-baths and showers, we took turns rocking him for hours when he couldn't sleep and we did a honey-elixer (over the counter same brand as the saline drops) (we also tried a buckwheat-honey but he wouldn't go for it a second time - ha!), saline drops many times daily, and lots of water.

After we battled the congestion, the stomach bug hit him like nothing else. Anyone who knows my son, knows he doesn't sit still. The stomach bug hit him and he didn't leave his Dad's lap for almost 8 hours. He didn't eat for almost 2 days (which for anyone who knows him, knows he eats everything and anything!). He would take water, pedialyte and crackers (barely). By the third day, he had the spring in his step back...only for the next day to hit both my husband and I within a few hours of each other. We sipped our ginger-ale, water and saltines for days and played happily with our son trying desperately not to return the "cooties" in which we caught.

Its been a few weeks now and we all seem to be on the mend finally! I will be happy when Spring arrives and we can banish the "cooties" from everyone who has been affected.

Be well everyone! Let the countdown to Spring begin!!

Diva of the Month - March 2012!

2012-03-09T08:00:00.001-05:00

Congratulations Kelly!!

1) How does it feel to be the March Diva of the Month?

Wow- Surprised! Thanks everyone! I joined the group just before Christmas, went on vacation for a few weeks, and have been stuck at home with colds most of the time since! I am very excited about this group- as we are new to the area and we are happy to meet so many nice, new friends!

2) Tell us a little about yourself.

I am originally from Minnesota. I went to college in Grand Rapids, MI and married my best friend that same May. He was in the Army- so that took us to Georgia next, followed by Virginia. He is now a government employee and we are all happy to be settling down in Maryland. I taught in Virginia, but quit after my daughter came along. I've been a SAHM for the last 4.5 years and LOVE it. My son came along 22 months after her and most of the time they are best friends.
Also, I have a super power. For real. Five minutes of snuggling and I can put anyone to sleep. Pretty handy super power for a mom of small children!

3) What has been your favorite craft you've done so far?

I think the item I am most proud of is a flower girl dress I made for my daughter. I've made quite a few dresses before, but this was a formal dress with silk and satin. She looked beautiful and the bride loved it. Sewing is probably my favorite of all the crafts. I can make a variety of clothing, toys, blankets, and even odd things like the teepees I made for my children's first birthdays.

4) Since you were nominated for being the Crafty Queen, what are the 5 essential craft items any mommy needs?

Good scissors. You need special scissors for all different crafts, but a good pair can be hard to find and hard to keep from being used on the wrong items. Often it is necessary to hide said good scissors.
A Sharpie. Such an easy item that most people have. It is very multi-purpose. Labeling, stenciling on clothes, scrapbooking, drawing patterns, the list goes on and on.
An Iron. When making clothes one of the most important things is to iron the fabric frequently. Before you start, in-between stitches, and when it is complete. Plus, did you know you can iron some fabrics onto your walls to make decals? AMAZING.
A Recycling Bin. Not like the one that sits next to your trash and gets dumped out bi-weekly for the Frederick County Recycles! truck to pick up. A re-use bin. About two weeks ago I took old shirts that no longer fits or became stained and made a new layered dress for my daughter. We took regular stamps and fabric paint and created a cute little dress she loves to wear.
Beautiful Fabric, paper, or yarn. Whatever you are making, you will be more likely to actually finish if the material is beautiful. Buy something that makes you smile, even if it is more expensive because then you will actually use it, love it, and use it more.

March Avatar of the Month!

2012-03-07T08:00:00.002-05:00

Stacy showin' off that beautiful baby bump that later became a gorgeous little girl! Thanks Stacy for the picture!

Moderator of the Month - March 2012!

2012-03-05T08:00:00.002-05:00

Congratulations Casey!

1) How does it feel to be the March Moderator of the Month?

It feels great to be the Moderator of the Month! Being recognized as moderator of the month makes me feel like I am giving back to a site that has already given me so much support, strength and friendship.

2) Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Casey and I am 23 years old. I have a son, Chase who is my sunshine. He is a bright child, funny, and as sweet as can be. Oliver is my baby and at two months old, he has taught me so much about love, patience and kindness. He is my angel. My husband is my other half and without him, I would be lost. I am a wife, a mother, and a friend. I live each day trying to be as kind to others as possible. Kindness brings people together and shows others they are just as important to you as you are to them.

3) What has been your favorite FM event so far?

I have not been on the site for long, so I have yet to try out all the events, but I did have a blast at our Fire Station Tour. I got to meet a bunch of members and my son had kids to play with that were his age.

4) Since you were nominated as a Washington County Moderator, name your top 3 favorite places in Washington County.

Hagerstown City Park - It's absolutely beautiful and with playgrounds, walking trails and ducks, it really is a great place to hang out.
The Little Gym - I can be found at the Little Gym weekly. Before I moved, I was too far from a Little Gym and I sure missed out. If you need a place where your kid can climb up walls, this is your place.
Rocky's Pizza - The first time I ate their pizza, the grease dripped down my arm onto the table. That is good pizza! It probably has more calories than anyone needs in a day, but heck, it is totally worth it.

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2012-03-02T08:00:00.002-05:00

FrederickMommies' fabulous Flower Power fundraiser is drawing to a close, so if you haven't placed your order yet, now is the time! It's never too early to plan to improve your curb appeal or beautify your backyard. From begonias to tiger lilies and everything in between, Flower Power is the place for quality flower bulbs with a 100 percent money guarantee.

This fundraiser runs until March 20, 2012, and your bulbs will arrive in April and May, just in time for beautiful summer blooms. Time is running out!

Save time, money, and gas by planning your perfect garden from the comfort of your computer. Spring over to http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/i/t/240198/6647lWwjMNth, and check out the wide array of lovely lilies and pretty peonies, among other bulbs. As a bonus, if you spend $40 or more, Flower Power will send you a free bag of 10 Twilight gladiolus, a $10 value.

So what are you waiting for? Don't delay: Grow with us today!

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

Free Premium Membership Access for a Limited Time

2012-02-28T17:00:00.001-05:00

Ever wonder what's so special about Premium Access to the National Forum? For a limited time The Mommies Network is offering FREE access to premium content like Debate This and Buy/Sell/Swap to all members.
See what you've been missing by logging on to http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/nationalforum/index.php and get started today.

Free Premium Access is available to all current and new members of The Mommies Network National Forum. It is available NOW through April 30th.

Mix-Matched Turkey Chili

2012-02-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:

2 lbs ground turkey
1 medium green pepper (diced)
1 medium yellow onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (diced)
1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
2 tbsp ground cumin
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp Hot/Texas style chili powder** (optional)
1 tsp ground nutmeg (secret ingredient)
3 12 oz cans of diced tomatoes

(for additional taste, substitute 1 can of 12oz can of regular diced tomatoes for a spicy/zesty flavored canned tomato)

Directions:

In a 5-6 quart heavy pan, add canned tomatoes and begin simmering low.

In a large skillet, combine the garlic, onions and peppers with the EVOO; let them simmer for a few minutes until tender – reserve.

To the large skillet brown turkey, add the garlic, onions and pepper mixture back in with the turkey, toss lightly to mixing together cumin, chili powders and nutmeg. Continue mixing together and allow to simmer on low 3-4 minutes until flavors combine.

Then add meat mixture to tomatoes and continue to simmer low-medium for 5 minutes before adding beans. Once the beans have been added, put lid on the pot, allow to simmer for approximately 45 minutes (stir occasionally to keep beans from sticking to bottom of the pan).

Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Serving suggestions:

Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, biscuits and/or corn muffins.

Note: Surprisingly, my 20mo son will eat chili and gobble it up, its not the neatest of meals, but it makes me happy that he loves to eat it!

Escaping the Tiger's Jaws

2012-02-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

In the five months since my son's birth, I have lived a lifetime of tiny, miraculous moments. Elated, beaming, teary, frustrated, somber, and raging moments. Overall, I feel miles away from that wonderful but horrifying day I gave birth. My life turned upside down that night, and I went through some shockingly intense postpartum "stuff" for a few weeks.

Much of the time, I feel so beyond all of that now. I am a mommy not-to-be-messed-with on most days, and I mean this in the best way possible. Life has taken on a more no-nonsense, grounded quality. There's an assurance about the world and the reason I am here. In short, my mommy-ness has kicked in.

Yet, certain days, like today, I brush against "giving birth" memories, and a quick and quiet desperation comes over me. A desperation that pain can actually be that excruciating - like being sucked into a tiger's hungry jaws, one contraction at a time. A desperation that the bottom can be pulled out of your emotions, and you can go plummeting to the hardwood floor - with a helmet or knee pads.

Overall, I am recovering emotionally and physically in ways I would have never thought possible in those feeble post-delivery days. My life is full to the brim with tiny footprints, first smiles, gurgles and coos. But, underneath this smiling, newborn face is a woman recovering from her own destruction and rebirth.