Not Your Typical Mommy

Born via C-Section

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:34:00 +0000

I like to think that I am an open person, meaning that I am open to how people live their lives and I’m cool with it. I am an accepting person and believe that people make their own decisions about their lives and I have no say in it.

Sure, if they ask my opinion I will give it, but I always stress to them that the decision is theirs.

I’d never tell anyone what to do, how to do it or why I would do it a certain way.

It’s just not my bag, baby.

I’ve never spoken about my girls births like this before but February is C-Section Awareness Month and I want the world to know that I had a c-section with both of my girls and I had them by choice.

Yes, there were medical reasons to my choice but I still choose to have them that way. I had a choice to risk their lives and I decided that it was in their best interest to play it safe and have them delivered in a sterile operating room.

And I’m not ashamed of it.

I have had women try to shame me into feeling like a worthless piece of shit for having my babies the way I did, one even telling me that I really wasn’t a mother since my babes didn’t come out the chute.

I think I gave that woman the finger.

Mature, I know.

My point is that the births of both of my girls were wonderful, special, moving, beautiful and full of happy tears.

The point is they arrived!

The point is they are here.

Having them via c-section doesn’t mean I am a horrible person, it means I’m their mother and they are my children.

Despite how a child arrives to be in their mothers arms is irrelevant. Whether it’s through natural birth, an adoption, a c-section, heck even if a stork drops them off in a basket, they are children and we are mothers.

Despite how a child arrives, Mothers still bathe, dress, nurse, nurture them.

We still love them.

And they love me.

Huggie's Little Movers Slip On Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:28:00 +0000

Have you seen that adorable Huggies commercial with all the squirmy babies in it?

Have you ever watched that commercial and nodded your head along with it?

Yeah, me too.

Turtle is one squirmy baby, especially when I am changing her diaper. Her favorite move is the twist and roll and then dart to the corner of the bed where I can't reach her... and then she laughs at me, all while naked and jumping up and down.

Cute, yes. Annoying, sometimes.

Yes, I just admitted my baby can be annoying sometimes.

Huggies has just launched their own You Tube channel where you can upload videos of your own squirmy baby! This is a delicious way to spend some spare time because OH MY GOODNESS! The cuteness!!

To celebrate the launch, Huggies has graciously given me a Little Movers prize pack to giveaway to one of you! You'll get a package of Little Movers Slip Ons and a cute magnetic photo frame for your fridge.

All you need to do to enter is tell me your babies favorite move.

Easy peasy.

This contest ends on February 22, 2012.

Please make sure you leave an email address so I can contact you if you win.

I received a package of diapers in exchange for this post. All opinions in this post are 100% my own. Please see my full disclosure policy for more information.

Wordless Wednesday: Cuddling Solves All

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:29:00 +0000

Valentine's Day Goodies from EdenFantasys

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:17:00 +0000

If you can believe it, Valentine's Day is right around the corner.... Seriously, it's 8 days away!

Have you even started shopping for your honey?

I spent some time on one of my favorite websites, EdenFantasys and picked out some yummy goodies that just might score you major brownie points with your sweetheart.

Lingerie:

The sweet bouquet shorty cami set

Pinstripe woven cami set

Wet look top and pant set

Then you will need some essentials...

Belleza Box

Fence Net Thigh High

The Book of Massage

EdenFantasys has tons of great Valentine's Day gifts to choose from. Their website is always expanding and recently they added makeup to their collection!

Another great thing about EdenFantasys is that they have a ton of hot lingerie for only $14.99!

Now if they added shoes, it would be your one stop sex shop!

Head over to EdenFantasys and start filling the shopping cart with tons of naughty items guaranteed

Days of the Dinosaurs!

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:34:00 +0000

When I heard that dinosaurs were on exhibit in Orlando, I packed the kids up and went straight there.

Seriously?

Dinos in Orlando?

The Days of the Dinosaurs exhibit is at the West Oaks Mall (quite a hike for me, if I can say so), tucked into a storefront by the kids playground.

Set up inside there are dinosaurs that move around and roar at people that pass by.

They scared the crap out of Turtle, who spent the entire visit clutching my neck so I don't recommend this for anyone under 4, unless they are made of stern stuff.

Along the ways there's tons of dino facts to read about.

There's also a 20 minute 3D movie to check out. Roo loved it, I couldn't take it. The 3D effects made me feel like I was crossing my eyes so I cuddled with Turtle while Roo watched.

There's activities to do like dig for dino bones.

And a coloring station.

It was a nice visit for us, especially for our dino lover in the family. She was tickled pink by all of it, especially the gift shop at the end where she somehow talked me into buying more dinosaurs for her collection.

They only accept cash at the Days of the Dinosaur exhibit so make sure you go prepared. Tickets are $5 and kids 3 and under get in free. They will be at the West Oak location until the end of March.

You can find more information about the Days of the Dinosaur here.

I received comp tickets for this exhibit. All opinions in this post are 100% my own. Please see my full disclosure policy for more information.

Review: My Little Pony Friendship is Magic: The Friendship Express

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:22:00 +0000

Ponies are a big deal in this household.

DVDs are also a big deal in this household as well.

Add the two together and you've got happy girls... and a happy Mama because them watching a DVD gives me time to breathe... and pick up toys, do laundry, cook food and do geometry in my head.

Not the last one, but it sounded good huh?

My Little Pony has also been a big favorite in this house. My oldest owns all the new (and some of the old) My Little Pony toys and they are always scattered on the floor of her room.

With the newest My Little Pony DVD, Friendship is Magic: The Friendship Express (out on February 28th!), Roo will gather up all the My Little Pony toys and sit on the floor with them circling her and watch the movie.

Yes, Turtle tends to come in and make a mess of her circle but after a few shouting matches they both settle down and watch the movie.

It's quite cute, I must say.

Friendship is Magic: The Friendship Express has 5 episodes and great bonus features, including sing-a-longs and a Meet the Ponies feature. Also included on the DVD is a sneak peek at the new Pound Puppies series.

This DVD is well loved in our house, check it out on February 28th when it hits store shelves.

I received a copy of this DVD for review purposes. All opinions in this post are 100% my own. Please see my full disclosure policy for more information.

Wordless Wednesday: Life on a Farm

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:58:00 +0000

Simply Been is Simply Gorgeous

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:01:00 +0000

This past Christmas, I participated in a Secret Santa exchange.

My gift was this gorgeous bracelet from Simply Been.

It's personalized with my daughters names on the other side (sorry, I flipped it over so you couldn't read the names... it's my thing) and the font is adorable!

It's delicate yet sturdy. My youngest has tried her damnest to pull it off my arm without any success. It's also girly and pretty and everything I like.

I wanted to share it with you simply because I love jewelry that shows pride in being a mother. Their motto is: Simply loved, simply unique, simply yours.

Simply Been has lots of options for you to choose from too, you're bound to find something that screams your name.

I did not receive any compensation for this post. I love my bracelet, therefore I wanted to show love for Simply Been.

NYTM Cook: French Dip

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 02:32:00 +0000

I admit it, I've been stuck in a rut with my cooking lately.

I have been falling back on the same old recipes: stir fry veggies, rice and chicken with peppers and spaghetti. Add in the occasional chili, quesidillia or breakfast burrito and you have my every week for the past two months.

Boring, I know.

Today I made French dip sammiches and they were to die for!

And so damn easy.

I got a 3 lb top roast and a packet of Au Jus sauce. Add in a cup of water and put it in the crock pot for six to eight hours (on low).

Save the sauce for dipping!

I picked up some fresh sub rolls from Publix, toasted them and added provolone cheese.

I added mayo, because everything tastes better with mayo.

And enjoy!

Annnndddd I'm going back for seconds.

Special Events at Busch Gardens, Tampa!

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:23:00 +0000

When you combine animals and Sesame Street, you have a happy family on your hands.

My girls are crazy for both and I adore that Busch Gardens makes magic for them when we visit.

And visit, we will because we are armed with the (FREE) Preschool Pass.

From a recent press release:

"Saturday, Feb. 11

Elmo’s Warm and Fuzzy Valentine’s Day Party

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your family’s favorite Sesame Street friends on Saturday, Feb. 11 at Busch Gardens’ Sesame Street Safari of Fun. Swap Valentines with the characters and enjoy delicious food served buffet-style.

Sunday, April 22

Rosita’s Fiesta

Begin your family’s Viva la Musica celebration on April 22 by joining Rosita and her Sesame Street friends for a special fiesta at Busch Gardens’ Sesame Street Safari of Fun. Dance along with Rosita and her friends as they celebrate her Hispanic culture and enjoy delicious food served buffet-style. Then be sure to stick around for the featured concert that afternoon as part of Viva la Musica.

Sunday, May 13

Mother’s Day Dine

Mom is special! So celebrate her special day on Sunday, May 13, at Busch Gardens’ Sesame Street Safari of Fun and enjoy lunch with Elmo and Friends. Your family will enjoy delicious food served buffet-style, character meet and greets with the lovable Sesame Street characters, family together time and a special treat for Mom.

Sunday, June 17

Father’s Day Dine

Make this Father’s Day special by sharing lunch with Dad at a Dine with Elmo and Friends at Busch Gardens’ Sesame Street Safari of Fun on June 17. Your family will enjoy delicious food served buffet-style, character meet and greets with the lovable Sesame Street characters, family together time and a special treat for Dad.

Saturday, Sept. 22

Zoe’s Dance, Dance, Dance Birthday Party

Zoe’s birthday is Sept. 30, and Busch Gardens invites you to celebrate Zoe’s birthday along with her best friend Elmo and their Sesame Street friends on Saturday, Sept. 22 at the park’s Sesame Street Safari of Fun. The dance party is included with a lunch with the characters. Wear your dancing shoes so your family can join Zoe in her favorite pastime.

Saturday, Oct. 20

Halloween Monster Mash Dine

Celebrate Halloween at a special party on Oct. 20 at Busch Gardens’ Sesame Street Safari of Fun. Your child can do the Monster Mash, meet The Count and his Sesame Street friends and enjoy a spooky, buffet-style lunch. NOTE: Costumes are welcome at the dine, but may need to be removed in order to safely go on rides.

Each special event dining experience is from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted. The cost is $22 adults and $15 children, and a 6x8 keepsake photo is included per family. Make your reservations at SesameStreetSafariofFun.com or call 1-888-800-5447. Pass members receive a 10 percent discount. Admission to the park is required but not included."

Sounds fun huh? Which one will you go to?

Top Five Lists.

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

I’m on a roll with this whole making list things lately.

Today I am sharing the top five things I am doing instead of homework.

#5 Searching for birthday party themes

I swore I wouldn’t do it this year, I said NO PARTIES. Then Roo went and started school and all her friends were having huge birthday parties and I made the mistake of asking Roo if she wanted one of her own. Of course she said yes (Duh Mom!) and now it’s exploded into a big party and I have a list of things to do a mile long. It’s going to be a pony party and finding cute horse theme birthday stuff is hard! But someone has to do it!

#4 Checking Facebook

I do this everyday… I have a great group of friends online and we congregate on our groups page all day long and it’s a great way to distract yourself from homework, deadlines, children….

#3 Staring out the window

My desk is right under a window and I spend 80% of my time staring out at the bright blue sky (I love Florida) and watching the clouds pass by.

#2 Doodling

I am a compulsive doodler. There is not a blank piece of paper out there that is safe from my pen. I tend to start with pretty, curly swirls and then go on to an octopus, or skull or quotes from Shakespeare.

#1 The Kardashians

I am serious about this one… The reality show on the Kardashians is on the E channel allllllllllllll the time. ALL THE TIME. So I flip on the tv and I watch… and watch… and watch. All the while I am asking myself WHY. But I still do… am.

My Top Five Disney Movies

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

It's no secret, Disney movies rule this household.

It's safe to say that 8 out of 10 movies played here are of the Disney brand.

And I'm cool with it. Disney movies are always adorable, have catchy songs and happy ever after.

I decided, for your reading entertainment, to name my top five Disney movies.

#5 Toy Story
I was fifteen when this movie came out, and I went and saw it in the theaters with my family. It was hilarious. It was the first Disney movie I can recall that added a lot of humor into it, even humor that parents can laugh at. When Roo was two, this movie was on loop everyday at our house. She loved Buzz and Woody, even had little dolls of the character.

#4 Pete's Dragon
I remember seeing this movie for the first time on ABC's Wonderful World of Disney. I thought it was the coolest thing, having animation and live action at the same time. It was so cool. And Roo agrees with me on this one, she loves dragons and Pete is no exception.

#3 The Little Mermaid
After I saw this movie, I wanted nothing more than to be a mermaid. I can't imagine one little girl that didn't want to be a mermaid after this one. The songs in this one are also amazing and get stuff in your head long after the movie stops.

#2 Tangled
Oh, Rapunzel... Oh, I adore thee. Seriously. When Roo and I went to the theaters to see this one, I fell in love. The characters were great and the humor was spot on. I still laugh when we watch it at home. Rapunzel also stepped up to the plate and knocked it out by saving her true love, what a great way to teach girls that you don't always need to be rescued.

#1 Beauty and the Beast
A timeless movie that still makes me teary eyed! Oh, it's perfection. A smart, strong lead female that doesn't take any crap, especially from a Beast! What more do you need? This movie will always stay at the top spot of my list.

Finding Nemo 3D Trailer

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:11:00 +0000

My daughter's adore Finding Nemo.

The beauty of the film, the story, the colors, the humor!

And most importantly, the fish.

My girls are fish crazy.

So they (okay, Roo is going crazy not Turtle because Turtle doesn't really get what's going on, but when her sister is excited and jumps around she is excited and jumps around) are crazy about Finding Nemo coming out in 3D!

Here is the Official Trailer from Pixar and Disney.

Love is in the air at Enzian

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:04:00 +0000

I don't know about you, but this month is flying by for me. Seriously, didn't I just celebrate the New Year?

Now that February is knocking on our door, it's time to start thinking about Valentine's Day.

Yes, Valentine's Day.

The Enzian Theatre is celebrating by playing romantic movies up until February 15th.

Here is the schedule (from the press release):

"Thursday, February 9, 7PM
Popcorn Flicks in the Park
SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE
Central Park, Park Avenue, Winter Park
FREE
http://www.enzian.org/film/sleepless_in_seattle/

Saturday, February 11, 12 NOON
Saturday Matinee Classics
ROMEO AND JULIET
Special introduction from Orlando Shakespeare Theater
Enzian
General Admission: $8
Enzian Film Society Members: $5
http://www.enzian.org/film/romeo_and_juliet/

Sunday, February 12, 10AM
AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER
Valentine's Brunch
Fall in love all over again with an elegant brunch, live band, and stunning presentation of AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER starring Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr.
Enzian
Doors to the theater will open promptly at 10AM
Buffet will be available 10AM to 11:30AM
Film begins at 11:30AM
General Admission Pair: $125
Admission for Two
Brunch Buffet for Two
Two Complimentary Mimosas
VIP Pair: $250
Admission for Two
Brunch Buffet for Two
Two Complimentary Mimosas
Reserved VIP Table
A Bottle Perrier Jouet Grand Brut Champagne
AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER on DVD
http://www.enzian.org/film/an_affair_to_remember/

Tuesday, February 14, 9:30PM
Cult Classics
EVERYTHING YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT SEX
Enzian
Only $5
http://www.enzian.org/film/everything_you_always_wanted_to_know_about_sex/

Wednesday, February 15, 8PM
Wednesday Night Pitcher Show
MY BLOODY VALENTINE
On the lawn at Eden Bar
FREE
http://www.enzian.org/film/my_bloody_valentine/"

There is something for everyone.

Make sure you check it out and enjoy.

Oh, Roo-Cha-Chooo.

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Dear Miss Roo-La-La,

There are moments in my day when I stop and look at you and I feel this skip in my heart and my eyes fill with tears. And I get really emotional and happy that I'm your Mom. These moments are filled with such pride because I look at you and think, "You're my daughter!"

And then I wonder how in the world I got so lucky.

You truly are a bright light in my life and in my heart.

I look at you and cannot believe I managed to get you right. And I have screwed up a lot in my life, I won't lie to you... but the best, most perfect moment was when you were placed in my arms and you renewed me, refreshed me... made me whole.

And you continue that to this day (and btw, you will be five in two months, FIVE! Where the hell did the time go?), to make me whole.

Even when you stall going to bed for almost two hours or when you push your sister out of the way to get to the tire swing.

Even in my moments of "OMG! I'm going to lose my mind" chaos, you calm me.

You pat my hand, tell me you love me and that everything is going to be okay.

And you are right, oh wise child of mine, everything will be okay.

Because I have you.

I love you so much,

Mommy

Stubborn Child of Mine

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 18:10:00 +0000

I knew from the very beginning that Turtle would be wayyyyy different from Roo.

Roo listens when I talk (well, for the most part), does what needs to be done and is overall, an awesome big girl. Rarely does she act out on me.

Turtle... whoa, Turtle is a whole different breed.

She is insane.

She does not listen. She acts up all the time. She could give a shit about what I tell her to do.

But God, she is cute.

She does all of this with a smile on her face... until the tears come.

Until I am firm in my decision (like going to bed), and then the devil in her comes out.

And boy, it's not pretty.

She is so headstrong too. When I tell her to go to bed and she doesn't want to, she pitches a serious fit.

And she will hold firm to that temper tantrum until she passes out from exhaustion or she gets up out of bed and comes and finds me.

If I'm feeling soft, I'll cuddle her and then put her back in her bed, which tends to start it all over again.

I love that child, I love her spirit... I could just do without so much attitude.

:)

Review: Disney's Beauty and the Beast in 3D

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 17:59:00 +0000

I can remember back to the first time I saw Beauty and the Beast on the big screen. I remember being absolutely amazed by it and loving the ballroom dancing scene because it seemed so real! So vivid!

Beauty and the Beast has always been my favorite Disney movie, ever.

A beautiful girl who loves books and has a kind heart. A dancing candlestick that can juggle dishes. A manly beast who growls a lot!

It was perfection.

And it still is!

Disney's Beauty and the Beast is back on the big screen and in 3D!

I got a chance to take Roo with me to see a media preview of the movie and we loved it.

Yes, I won't lie, I did sit there for a moment and think that animation has come a long way since I saw the original in the theaters, but it was amazing to see it in 3D. I was also able to see more details that I tend not to pay attention to when we watch the movie at home.

Roo just loved it all.

She loved wearing the glasses the most though.

Another treat that comes with Beauty and the Beast in 3D is the Pixar short, Tangled Ever After is too die for. It was funny and we spent the entire time LoLing.

Both are in theaters today!

I attended a media preview to write this review. All opinions in this post are 100% my own. Please see my full disclosure policy for more information.

Review: Tide Coldwater

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:40:00 +0000

I'm the laundry goddess in this household.

I don't even think my other half knows how to turn the washing machine on and I know for a fact that my girls are to short to reach the knobs, so all the responsibility to get the clothes clean rests on my shoulders.

And a family of four goes through A LOT of laundry.

I tend to wash my clothing in warm water simply because it fills the washing machine up the fastest therefore gets the laundry done the quickest.

Honestly, when I turn the temperature dial to cold water, it takes forever to fill up.

No lies.

But Tide recently sent me a bottle of their new Coldwater detergent to check out. The facts about Tide Coldwater state that using cold water to do your laundry can help you save money on your utility bill.

Since you aren't using your water heater to heat the water to do your laundry, I can see this.

Plus, Tide Coldwater says that (from the press release): "Tide Coldwater removes stains better in cold water than leading bargain liquid detergents in warm water."

Tide Coldwater is specifically formulated to help get the stains out of your clothes when washed in cold water.

So I put it to the test and gave it a whirl.

And I'll be honest... my clothes came out clean.

Just like they did with the warm water I normally use.

I understand the appeal of the cold water issue, saving money and being green is a very good thing. But I have to be honest with you, due to time and the amount of laundry I do a week, I'm going to stick with using warm water.

And let me state, for the record, that my washing machine may be odd and that it's weird for the cold water to take longer than the hot water to fill my machine, but that's how it works in my household (My husband thinks its because our water heater is right next to the machine and since it's always full of hot water, it may take longer to get cooler water to the machine).

I received a bottle of Tide Coldwater to test out and a gift card as compensation as part of a She Speaks and P&G blogger program. All opinions in this post are 100% my own. Please see my full disclosure policy for more information.

Hesitation.

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 18:23:00 +0000

A few weeks back my doctor gave me the all clear to resume all normal daily activities.

This included running.

About a week ago, I took my first jog.

A nice short jog that lasted not even five minutes.

Then I stopped.

A few days later, I made it five minutes.

And again, I stopped.

This slow buildup continued for a few days until I decided that it was time to quit pussyfooting around and I hit a mile.

Today, I ran two and a quarter miles (slow as hell though).

It feels good to be back in my running shoes and pounding the pavement but I won't lie to you.

There's hesitation deep inside me about it.

One of my SVT episodes occurred while I was running and while yes, I didn't really feel it, it still happened.

Now I'm a little paranoid (as most with heart problems can be).

I wear a heart monitor watch while I run and I'll stop occasionally to check out my pulse (My max was 181). There's also the fact that I don't feel 100% confident in my heart.

There's no 100% guarantee that I won't have an episode and find myself reeling from the effects.

There's no way to tell when or where it (if it even does) happen.

And it SUCKS living this way.

That is why, despite my paranoia about my heart, I will strap on my running shoes tomorrow and go at it again.

I am 100% positive that if I let this problem control me it will only lead to panic attacks and me refusing to leave the comfort of the Barn.

I had to take a stand against my hesitance and kick it in the ass because a healthy lifestyle is what's best for me and my heart.

Wordless Wednesday: Beauty

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 18:26:00 +0000

First Look: Tangled Ever After: The Rings

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:58:00 +0000

I was lucky enough to attend a screening for Beauty and the Beast in 3D this past weekend (review coming up!) and before the movie, there was a Pixar short for Tangled Ever After.

Tangled is my #2 favorite Disney movie and I love when they continue the story with their shorts.

I wanted to share a clip with you to tease you and also warn you that it is funnnnnnnnn-eeeeee.

Tangled Ever After debuts on January 13th in movie theaters.

Aaaaaahhhh-Haaaaa!

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 20:29:00 +0000

I remember flipping through an Oprah magazine a while back and it had an article talking about your "Ah-Ha" moment.

I skimmed through the article and tossed it aside then moved on to something else.

I heard the expression a few more times but I never really gave it too much though.

Sure, I've heard people tell me about their own Ah-Ha moment and I thought, it would be nice to be hit like a lightning bolt and have everything before me come into focus.

But I went about my day to day business not focusing or even looking for my own Ah-Ha moment.

I was a believer that when it was meant to happen, it would.

And you know what, I was right.

Last week I had the most brilliant Ah-Ha moment and ever since then, I've been walking around with the biggest smile on my face.

I even texted a dear friend and said: I'm Happy!

To be honest, I haven't thought those words in a few months.

But to say them (and text them), was the most wonderful feeling... almost as great as my Ah-Ha moment.

And you know what, that moment was like the clouds parting and the sun shining down right upon me. It was life changing. It was beautiful. It was heavenly.

It was like all the darkness of the past slipped off my shoulders, crashing to the ground and breaking into pieces.

It was freeing.

And I thought back to that Oprah article and the smiles of the people in the pictures that accompanied the article, I now have that smile on my face.

And I couldn't be happier.

Pachyderm Performers Parade in Orlando

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 21:43:00 +0000

I've never seen this, but have had friend who take their kids and their kids LOVE seeing the elephants parade through Downtown Orlando.

Here's the details on the upcoming parade in Orlando, straight from a press release:

"Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey^® Pachyderm Performers

Parade Through Orlando This Monday Night

The Greatest Show On Earth^® Moves To Orlando’s Amway Center

ORLANDO, FL – January 6, 2012 – The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey train rolls into Orlando this Monday, January 9. Fantastic photo opportunities will be available Monday night as the Ringling Bros. pachyderm performers parade to Amway Center. The all-new 142^nd edition of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, DRAGONS^SM, debuts in Orlando next Thursday, January 12^th, for an eight-performance run.

The Ringling Bros. animal performers will unload at 8:00 p.m. and walk beginning at 8:30 p.m. Animals will unload at railroad tracks near 1053 W. Amelia, then travel east on Amelia to Parramore, south to Church Street, then east to the Amway Center and enter the GEICO Garage. (Note: route and time are subject to change.)

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey^® Presents DRAGONS is a once in a millennium event that honors The Year of the Dragon. Circus performers from the farthest reaches of the earth have assembled forRingling Bros. Presents DRAGONS to showcase their astounding acts of bravery and astonishing athleticism. Ringling Bros.^® Ringmaster Johnathan Lee Iverson presides over this fantastical celebratory tournament of circus champions that brings together mystic dragon lore with authentic circus feats.

Tickets start at $15. Ticketmaster service charges and facility fees not included. All seats are reserved. Tickets are available at www.ringling.com or www.ticketmaster.com, at any Ticketmaster outlet, by calling 800-745-3000, or at the Amway Center box office (phone for information only: 407-440-7900). For group ticket sales and information, call 866-248-8740.

Feld Entertainment is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live touring family entertainment experiences that lift the human spirit and create indelible memories, with 30 million people in attendance at its shows each year. Feld Entertainment's productions have appeared in more than 70 countries on six continents and include Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey^®, Feld Motor Sports, Disney On Ice and Disney Live!"

$99 Tickets to Disney for Florida Residents

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 22:23:00 +0000

Walt Disney World is bringing back a great ticket option for Florida residents in 2012.

From the press release:

"Florida Residents Can Make More Memories in 2012 with 3-Day, 4-Day ‘Wild For Disney’ Passes

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Jan. 4, 2012) - Just in time for the new year, Florida Residents get added incentive to make more memories at Walt Disney World this spring, with an extra special ticket offer.

From now until May 21, 2012, Florida residents can purchase a “Wild for 3-Day Pass” for $99 (plus tax) or upgrade to a “Wild for 4-Day Pass” for $129 (plus tax), valid for entry into one Walt Disney World park per day. For even more memory-making, Florida Residents can also add “Park Hopper” or the “Water Park Fun and More” option for $27.50 per ticket.

Details:

3-Day “Wild for Disney” Pass
- Price: $99, plus tax
- Includes: admission to any of the four Walt Disney World theme parks any three days (excluding blockout period); one park per day.
4-Day “Wild for Disney” Pass
- Price: $129, plus tax
- Includes: admission to any of the four Walt Disney World theme parks any four days (excluding blockout period); one park per day.
Both Passes
- Offer period: Jan. 4 – May 24, 2012
- Purchase by: May 21, 2010
- Blockout dates: Feb. 18, 2012 – February 20, 2012; April 1, 2012 – April 13, 2012
- Proof of Florida residency required; pass is nontransferable and excludes activities/events separately priced.

To purchase or for more information: disneyworld.com/99."

PreSchoolers get into Sea World & Busch Gardens Free!

noreply@blogger.com (SuZ @ NYTMBlog) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 20:10:00 +0000

I adore Sea World and Busch Gardens. In fact, I'm planning trips to both in the next two months.

And my pre-schooler gets in for FREE!

Yours can too, check it out.

From the press release:

"CHILDREN AGES 5 AND YOUNGER CAN EXPERIENCE
FAMILY ADVENTURE FOR FREE AT SEAWORLD & BUSCH GARDENS

The New SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Preschool Pass Offers Kids
Unlimited Admission With No Blackout Dates Through 2012

ORLANDO, Fla. (Jan. 4, 2012) – It’s an awesome time to be a preschooler! Children age five and younger can now explore the depths of the ocean and the wonders of Africa for FREE with the new SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Preschool Pass. Little ones will experience kid-size thrills at Busch Gardens' Sesame Street Safari of Fun and SeaWorld's Shamu’s Happy Harbor play areas, get up close to their favorite furry and feathered friends in addition to seeing new shows brought to life.

The pass is good for all of 2012 at both SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Kids are welcome to experience all there is to do for the preschool set, along with the chance to enjoy seasonal events including SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular and festive holiday events at both parks. New this year is SeaWorld’s all-new festival that’s “Just for Kids!” featuring concerts by Lazy Town, Max & Ruby, the Doodlebops and Choo Choo Soul, along with plenty of family-friendly fun and activities on Saturdays, Jan. 14 through Feb. 4. And Busch Gardens will delight guests with its biggest ice show ever, Iceploration, premiering this February.

Parents and older kids can join in on all the excitement with a Fun Card, when they pay for a day and come back all year through Dec. 31, 2012, with no blackout dates.

“Must-see” preschool attractions at SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld’s littlest guests can enjoy the wildly popular 4-acre play area, Shamu’s Happy Harbor. It’s a kid’s dream come true, complete with kid-size rides, a 4-story net climb, and a great place for parents to relax while watching their kids have splashes of fun. The park’s first family-oriented roller coaster, “Shamu Express” can be found here along with other kiddie rides to explore.

Of course no visit to SeaWorld is complete without being splashed by Shamu! SeaWorld’s newest killer whale show, “One Ocean,” features majestic whales performing spectacular behaviors, including thrilling high-energy leaps, while educating and inspiring kids and their families to make a difference in this world. And at “Blue Horizons” kids will be awed by graceful dolphins, false killer whales, a rainbow of exotic birds, and entire cast of divers and aerialists.

Kid-favorite “Pets Ahoy!” will leave children giggling as a menagerie of rescued dogs, cats, birds, rats, skunks, pot-belly pigs, and other animals performing a series of uproarious and amazing skits.

While older kids are flying, gliding and soaring on Manta, younger ones can experience the incredible underwater world of tropical fish and rays in the floor-to-ceiling aquariums. Manta’s underwater viewing area is home to more than 3,000 species. Kids can even “pop up” in the middle of a small aquarium, surrounding themselves with hundreds of fish for some great photos.

At Dolphin Cove, kids (and parents) can touch and feed dolphins and also go below the surface for an underwater view where they just might see a dolphin blowing a bubble or two!

Plus, SeaWorld features a cozy Baby Care Center located at Shamu’s Happy Harbor with top-of-the-line changing facilities, private feeding rooms and pint-sized potties. This brightly-colored building gives parents the privacy and comfort of a home-away-from home in the middle of all the fun and is a one-stop shop for baby necessities.

Busch Garden loves kids, too!

Don’t forget this awesome new FREE Preschool Pass also includes Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Just a short hour’s drive away, in addition to all the wondrous animal encounters at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, preschoolers will delight in Sesame Street Safari of Fun, a sunny funny play land, filled with moments that your family can share for the first time — like a first coaster experience aboard Air Grover. And everyday smiles can be repeated time after time —clapping along to original shows, splashing in our expansive water play area and enjoying kid-size rides.

Sign up today!

The Free SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Preschool Pass is an exclusive online offer, available at SeaWorldOrlando.com or BuschGardensTampaBay.com. It is exclusively for Florida residents ages 5 and younger and is valid for unlimited admission – with no blackout dates – through Dec. 31, 2012 at SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. The Preschool Pass does not include parking or Premium Passport discounts or benefits.

After registering through either park’s website, registrants can pick up the Preschool Pass for their child by bringing a printed confirmation and a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate to any ticket window at SeaWorld’s or Busch Gardens’ front gate.

For more information on the Free SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Preschool Pass, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com or BuschGardensTampaBay.com."