Mama's Viewfinder

What I'm Thankful For

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Thu, 21 Nov 2013 15:00:00 +0000

It's November. November is the month to be thankful. On Facebook all you see is daily thankful posts. Now, I'm not committed enough to do a daily post on what I'm thankful for. I am grateful and thankful every day for various aspects of my life. I just can't commit to remembering to post them on Facebook every day.

I have much to be thankful for lately. I'm thankful for our amazing little baby that came into our lives earlier this year and made it that much richer. I'm thankful for my two older ones that have adjusted and helped in ways I did not think possible before. I'm thankful for an amazing husband that busts his butt both at work and at home to support our family. I'm incredibly thankful for Blessings in disguise.

This little one put me out of work. Daycare for her full time and for the other two along with commuting costs and work related expenses were close to, if not more than what I would have been bringing home. Because of that, I have had the opportunity to stay at home with my babies. We've done things we couldn't do before. I have been there for them in ways I couldn't when I was working. We've had more time together. I'm more relaxed and not rushing to get everything done in the short span between work and bedtime. I'm enjoying being their mom more than I ever have. For this I am grateful.

Linking up with Mama Kat's Writer's Workshop.

Menu Plan Monday

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Mon, 18 Nov 2013 13:30:00 +0000

This week we are having:

Monday - Ravioli & Meatballs

Tuesday - Apricot Chicken & Rice

Wednesday - Leftovers

Thursday - Pasta

Friday - Pizza night

Saturday - Chicken Tacos

What's on your menu this week?

Menu Plan Monday 9.23.13

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Mon, 23 Sep 2013 18:09:00 +0000

I struggle so much with menu planning. Once I do it though, I feel so much better having a plan. I think it's because I suck at cooking. There, I said it. I suck at cooking. It doesn't help that the kids are so picky and hate everything I make. That's great for my cooking confidence, right?

This week we are having:

Monday - Cheeseburger Pie

Tuesday - Slow Cooker Hawaiian Luau Pork

Wednesday - Leftovers

Thursday - Some kind of chicken dish - not sure what yet. Maybe chicken tacos? Will depend on what I have on hand.

Friday - pizza night

Saturday - Leftovers

What's on your menu this week?

Linking up with OrgJunkie .

Angel Chicken - YUM!

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Thu, 12 Sep 2013 11:30:00 +0000

Way back when, I pinned a recipe for Angel Chicken on my pinterest boards. I finally got around to trying it last week. Boy, am I sorry I waited! It was SO good!

As usual, I made way too much. I pretty much always make enough to feed 3+ families. It must be my Italian upbringing. We didn't have enough spaghetti left to have it again as leftovers so we tried something different. We made quesadillas! Yep, I just plopped it on some tortilla shells, spread it around and sprinkled some cheddar cheese on it. It was delicious!!

Sorry for the crappy cell phone picture, I had to grab a photo quickly before they were gone!

We also had it for lunch - we just rolled it up in some tortilla shells with some lettuce and BAM! Angel Chicken Wraps.

Once there wasn't enough left for more than one of us to have - we warmed it up and used it as a dip. That's right. DIP! We dipped tortilla chips and Fritos in it. This was pretty tasty and I'll have to remember this next time I have to take something to a pot luck.

Needless to say, this recipe was a HUGE hit in our house. Everyone loved it and the kids have already asked me to make it again.

Wordless Wednesday 9.11.13

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Wed, 11 Sep 2013 16:14:00 +0000

A Big Leap

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Sat, 31 Aug 2013 01:12:00 +0000

Yesterday was a big day in our family's history. I took a big leap and quit my job. I was scheduled to return from maternity leave in a few days but I just couldn't do it. Once I figured out child care expenses for all three kids, add in my commuting and gas costs and it just wasn't worth it.

I was also having a really hard time committing to putting the baby in daycare. My other two were older when they started and I had no problems sending them. In fact, I absolutely adore the daycare they went to and remain friends with most of their teachers. I'm starting to wonder if it's because this is our last baby. I'm feeling more sentimental over the little things.

While I'm really nervous about not working - I've never not worked, I've had a job of some sort since I was 16 years old and babysat regularly before that since I was 13. I'm super excited to be able to stay home with the baby and be there for the bigger kids after school. I'm really letting go and putting my faith in the fact that this will all work out.

Has anyone else made this transition? How did it work out for you?

Menu Plan Monday 8.26.13

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Mon, 26 Aug 2013 20:59:00 +0000

Our menu plan for this week is simple and easy. I may end up changing a few things or ordering out since I'm not feeling well and don't want to spend a lot of time in front of a hot stove. We'll see, but for now, here goes:

Monday - Grilled Cheese Sandwiches & Salads

Tuesday - Ravioli

Wednesday - Angel Chicken & Spaghetti

Thursday - Leftovers

Friday - Pizza night

What's on your menu this week?

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Linking up with The Centsible Life and OrgJunkie

Blog fail

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Mon, 26 Aug 2013 02:02:00 +0000

Life has been hectic to say the least since adding a third child to the mix. She's super sweet and an amazing baby, but it's still been a struggle finding a good balance. Needless to say, as much as I have been wanting to get back into blogging, it just hasn't happened. The intentions are there, the time and organization aren't.

Right now, the children are nestled all snug in their beds while I'm up hacking up a lung. I can't get comfortable. I can't stop coughing. It came out of nowhere. I'm just trying to contain it to myself so the kids don't get it too. Do you know how hard it is not to breathe on a baby that constantly wants to be held? Today it was like she knew I was trying not to hold her or breathe on her, which made her want to be held all the more. Of course this happens to be one of thos "sometimes single" times in my life. With the husband at work, I'm not catching any breaks.

At least I found a moment to blog, right?

Life... what happens when you're busy making plans

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Sun, 09 Dec 2012 15:32:00 +0000

We've been planning to go into NYC to see the tree at Rockefeller center and some of the other holiday sights. The kids love this and we've done it for the last couple years. We didn't quite make it this weekend.

First the rains moved in. Apparently they are staying until Tuesday. Then we were up all night Friday night with a sick LaLa. We were up just about every 15-20 minutes with her all night long. So we had so stick around the house on Saturday while she rested. It seems like it was only a short bug lasting only the night. Thank goodness!

Today we will be spending cleaning the house and doing laundry. Oh what fun!

Better luck next weekend!

Menu Plan Monday

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Sun, 25 Nov 2012 17:31:00 +0000

Our loose plan for this week:

Monday: Leftovers

Tuesday: Spaghetti

Wednesday: Shepard's Pie

Thursday: Crockpot Chicken for Tacos

Friday: Leftover Buffet

Neglected

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Sun, 25 Nov 2012 03:02:00 +0000

Wow. I can't believe it's been almost a full year since I've posted here. I knew it had been a while and I kept telling myself I would post soon but how did I let a whole year get away from me? Yikes.

There has been much going on in life, no reason not to write about it. It was easier to veg out in front of the TV or play games on facebook whenever I had any down time. I won't call it free time. Free time would mean that I would actually be free to do what I wanted. That doesn't happen here. Two little girls seem to have a keen radar that let them know when Mama has sat down to take a minute to herself.

I'm looking forward to getting back into the swing of things.

SO Much to Do, So Little Time!

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 02:28:00 +0000

I feel like I am so behind on my Christmas shopping this year. I still have quite a few things I need to get. I won't be able to get away without the kids until at least the weekend. I don't like waiting until the last minute because I really dislike crowds and parking lots around the holidays. What a mess.

I was lucky enough to score the thing LaLa most wanted this year. Actually, it was pretty much the only thing she wanted. When pressed for more things, she filled the list with things like apples, apples for my doll, food for my doll... You get the point. I'm not sure how pleasant Christmas would have been if she didn't get it.

Noodle on the other hand, changes her mind every other day on what she wants. Luckily, the top few pretty much stay the same. She is basically set. I just need to pick up a few odds and ends for her.

Noodle's list was also significantly more expensive. Please note, she did not get everything on it, not even close. I thought we were a few years away from super expensive Christmas lists. Boy, was I wrong!

What is on your kids' lists this year?

Wordless Wednesday: Things I Find on My Phone

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 15:51:00 +0000

Menu Plan Monday

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 03:27:00 +0000

Meal planning is something that I struggle with. I'm not much of a planner. I guess I'm more of a fly by the seat of my pants kind of girl. I love to try to organize and make lists and write things down. The problem is that I never use them or I lose them. Not very organized, is it?

I decided to jot down a few ideas for dinners this week so things aren't so hectic at night. Here's my lame attempt at menu planning this week.

Monday - leftovers from the weekend, Noodle has scouts so dinner has to be quick.

Tuesday - Tortellini and a salad

Wednesday - Hot Dogs in Crescent Rolls and salad

Thursday - Eat out/Leftovers since we will be out and about

Friday - String Cheese Pasta

Saturday - Crockpot Chicken stew

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Linked up to:

OrgJunkie

Get a Melissa & Doug 25% Off Coupon When You Take the North "Poll"

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 02:23:00 +0000

Melissa & Doug want you to tell them which of their educational toys you think is the best! Just click on the image below to place your vote in the North "Poll!" You'll Get a Melissa & Doug 25% Off Coupon** to use at MelissaAndDoug.com just for voting!

Cute Freebie: All About Love Hearts (Valentine Decor?)

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 19:22:00 +0000

How cute are they??

You can get them for FREE! Just pay shipping (I paid 4.95 + tax)!

Go to One Kings Lane and sign up to earn a free instant $15 credit.

Once you get your credit go down to the bottom of the page and click the bar that says

"downstairs at One Kings Lane" to go to the clearance section.

Pop these babies in your cart (or anything under $15) and it's yours free!

It's that easy!

Thanks to Mamacheaps for sharing this one!

Local Readers - Fun this weekend!!

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 20:11:00 +0000

Tonight! A Bumpin' Baby Shower!

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Tue, 31 May 2011 16:03:00 +0000

Come celebrate 'All About the Bump Month' with local bloggers Whitney Wingerd, Julie Pron & Kelly Whalen! 'All About the Bump Month' is a celebration of all things baby and pregnancy! Whether you're expecting, a new mom or would just love to win these amazing prizes for a mom to be we hope you'll join us for this fun night out!

Prizes include: a Graco SnugRide infant seat, a Phil & Ted's stroller courtesy of Zulily.com, a Joovy baby chair, a gorgeous Mamaroo, Britax "Carry On" baby carrier, and so much more! Each attendee will also receive a swag bag with goodies to take home!

All money generated from the sales of raffle tickets ($1 per ticket) will be donated to local charity, Home of the Sparrow. Tickets will be available at the event for $1 each or 15 tickets for $10.

Kildare's will be serving some munchies, and 1/2 priced drinks and apps including a special mocktail for our expecting moms in attendance.

For more information and to register, please visit: http://bumpinbabyshowerchesco.eventbrite.com/

Sick

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 15:34:00 +0000

I wish I could say this week has been an April Fool's joke, unfortunately it hasn't. I'm exhausted, I'm hacking up a lung, I feel like my head is floating away. I'm tired of being sick. I'm ready for the warm weather and open windows. Where is it?

This morning I woke up to snow! SNOW! Huge gorgeous flakes falling ever so softly. If I wasn't so sick and grumpy, I might have enjoyed the little April Fools prank the mother nature was playing on us all.

Add to that, having to take both cars into the shop this week and you have one stressed out Mama. Luckily the cars ended up not being as bad as we thought. We were sure that one of them was a goner. I guess that's my silver lining, right?

Don't Make Dinner Tonight!

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 16:25:00 +0000

If you are in the Warrington area between 11am and 11pm tonight (Wednesday 3/30) stop by TGI Fridays on Easton Road to grab a bite to eat.

Don't forget to mention BuxmontMommies when you order your food, they will get 25% of your food purchase donated back to their non-profit organization!
Here is the flyer to bring with you (if you forget it please mention BuxmontMommies to the staff).

Feel free to stop by BuxmontMommies' blog to keep up to date on what they have going on!

About BuxmontMommies:

As part of The Mommies Network, BuxmontMommies.com is a free community for moms in Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. We realize that all moms need local support -- and who can't use another friend? BuxmontMommies.com offers a simple way to connect with local moms for friendship, support and fun. Members meet on our private discussion forums to share information on everything from where to get the best haircut to tips on transitioning to a "big kid" bed. Each month, we also offer many face-to-face events for our members, their children and their families. Register today to access our discussion forums, events calendar and more! It's free and we'll keep your info secure and private.

Wordless Wednesday 3.23.11

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 04:01:00 +0000

Dear Spring

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 14:03:00 +0000

Dear Spring,

I have to say I am very dissappointed. I eagerly awaited your arrival. You sent me wonderfully warm vibes the Friday before you arrived. I was excited. Perhaps overly so. I couldn't wait to see you.

You arrived yesterday. It appears you did not bring that warmth with you. While I usually appreciate gifts, the freezing rain and ice you left on my car this morning were not really what I had in mind.

I would really appreciate it if you would take those "gifts" back and exchange them for the warmth and sunshine that I love so much.

Thanks so much!

Love and Buds,
Mama

Max & Ruby Bunny Party!

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 15:17:00 +0000

Max & Ruby Bunny Party is hopping to the Keswick Theatre on Saturday, April 30 and I was offered a special ticket discount for my readers!

Max & Ruby, the beloved Children’s Book collection and Nick Jr’s # 1 Rated Television program comes to life on stage. Max & Ruby: Bunny Party is an exciting musical adventure that celebrates the universal nature of sibling relationships.

Max & Ruby, brought to you by Koba Entertainment, are planning a surprise party and they have a lot to do during the 70 minute lively theatrical adorned with exquisite costuming and rich colorful sets.

Click here for the 1PM Show

Click here for the 4PM Show

Enter promo code: EASTER and get $5.00 off per ticket!

For more information on Max & Ruby visit: http://www.keswicktheatre.com/

Or email: orders@keswicktheatre.com

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My daughter went to see the Berenstain Bears show at the Keswick a few months ago. She absolutely loved it! They did a fabulous job. She absolutely loved the theater. She still brings it up and can't wait to go back!

Only Fools Text & Drive

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 02:31:00 +0000

The Mommies Network Encourages the Nation to Support It’s First Annual “Only Fools Text and Drive Day”, April 1, 2011

This April Fools' Day, The Mommies Network (TMN) would like national community support in making it an official “Only Fools Text and Drive Day”. By launching a video where children tell parents how they feel about texting and driving, and passing it along through their 25,000+ members nationwide, TMN intends to do just that. To pass along the message that “Texting and Driving is For Fools”, the video encourages everyone to drive with their headlights on April 1, 2011. The video is being shared through Facebook and YouTube nationwide. To view the video, please go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bVhVAxsTBwk

The Mommies Network knows how dangerous texting and driving can be. Being a national mom’s support group, their focus is on the children and how texting and driving can affect them, through example as well as safety.

The Mommies Network is a 501c(3) non-profit organization dedicated to helping moms find support and friendship in their local community. TMN was founded in April 2005 and currently has 119 chapters in 34 states with over 25,000 members. Membership is FREE!

To learn more about The Mommies Network, to find a chapter in your area, or to inquire about starting a chapter please visit http://www.themommiesnetwork.org.

Please pass this on!

Friday Hopping

noreply@blogger.com (Mama's Viewfinder) — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:12:00 +0000

1. If you had $1,000 to donate to a charity, which would you choose? I would probably give to a children's charity or the the American Diabetes Association. I have quite a few family members with Diabetes.

2. Snow days: Do you welcome them happily or are they a pain in your butt? HUGE pain in the butt. We got 16 inches of snow yesterday. I keep saying I want to move South. One day I will.

3. What talent did you wish you had and why? I wish I was naturally organized. I feel like my life is an organized chaos mostly. Other than that I would love to be able to sing!

4. Are you a news, politics or celebrity gossip junkie? Celebrity gossip. My husband hates it, but we listed to news in the background all day at work so when I get home my brain just wants to mush out.

5. What is your favorite "cocktail"? I'm more into the fairly sweet and doesn't taste alcoholic kind of cocktails.

It's Friday - you can also find me hopping at the following blogs. Stop by and check them out!