Only Parent Chronicles

Changed

2012-04-12T20:32:00.000-05:00

Life is full of events.

For each moment and for each event in my life, I always seem to have a soundtrack in my head.

I can think of countless moments that cue the perfect Rascal Flatts song. Dating all the way back to their second release, they have been recording songs that happen to meet me where I'm at. Their newest and 8th album, Changed, is no exception.

Like preceeding albums, this is a CD I am confident putting in with the kids listening along. Their three-part harmonies and catchy tunes make it easy to sing along, and the universal themes within the music make it easy to relate to each song!

Hurry Baby, the 8th track on the album tears especially on my heart strings. Having spent six years living in a different state from my fiance, I can relate to the plea for someone to be back home and by my side. It reminds me that every day since he has been home is a gift, and that I should be grateful he is finally here.

Currently on tour, the guys won't be in the Twin Cities until the end of August, but you can see when they'll be near you at www.RascalFlatts.com!

**I was provided a copy of this album by One2One Network in exchange for my review. All opinions about Rascal Flatts, their music, and how it stirs me are 100% mine!

Brilliant Observations from the Dog Park

2012-03-21T08:24:00.000-05:00

I have a Great Dane.

She's big... And she's sweet... And she's a really big chicken.

We love to take her to the dog park to play and socialize with other dogs and people. She loves it, too. People are always happy to pet her, and they are often amazed at her sweet, low-key disposition.

It would seem, however, that whenever Nat makes an appearance at the dog park, people are stricken with a case of "Captain Obvious" syndrome.

After 2 years, I should probably be used to it, but the stoopid things that come out of people's mouths never cease to amaze me...

Obvious Observations About Great Danes

"Wow! That's a big dog!"
Obviously my favorite, to which I'd like to respond, "Do you think so?"
"Your dog's paws are huge!"
Really? They seem small to me....
"She must eat a lot!"
Far less than a human 3 year-old.
"I don't have to bend over to pet your dog; That's really cool."
I never realized that. Thanks for pointing it out!
"I bet your dog could eat me!"
She's far more likely to crush you when trying to crawl into your lap.
"Cool dog! What kind is it?!?"
A yorkie.
"Your dog is so big, I bet I could ride it,"
Oh? You double as a circus monkey?
"You have a horse!"
Sure, if a horse is 36" tall and weighs 120 pounds...
"That's a dog?"
No. She's a squirrel.
"I bet it poops a lot."
I bet you poop a lot...

Needless to say, I do a lot of smiling and nodding...

As for Natty, she's just happy people are paying attention to her.

Reminding Myself I'm Doing It Right...

2012-03-19T08:16:00.001-05:00

As the mother of a child with behavioral health issues, it can be difficult to find consequences that make an impact or inspire change. It's difficult, when you are working so hard to break bad habits, to ignore the little things that a child does for the sake of attention.

I have been told time and time again to pick my battles. Some things kids just need to work out on their own.

As hard as I try to be the model parent, I fall short daily. I work myself into knots of guilt and inadequacy as I recount all of the advice given by countless "how to parent my difficult/spirited/special needs/ADHD/ODD/mood disorder/anxiety ridden child" books.

I try to remember all of the times the therapist has said, "you couldn't have handled that any better".

I try to remind myself of all of the things I do "do right".

Sometimes, no matter how hard I try, I feel defeated, because nothing seems to work.

I'm tired of being told, "You hate me!!"

Every time I hear, "I wish I was never even born!" I want to cry.

I feel guilty for dreading a day at home.

Sometimes I wonder if my head really will burst...because it feels like it might.

A few weeks ago, I even joked with some Twitter friends about faking my death and moving in with @MeSoRandy and his husband. But alas, these things will never come to pass.

I either really love the abuse or I really love my kids (it's the latter, I promise), but any way you look at it, I'm stuck here. Through thick and through thin, it is my job to equip my kids with the skills they need to live a happy and healthy life.

It is my job to somehow instill in them the self-confidence to treat themselves with respect. It is my hope, and goal, that they become individuals who look at the world through wide-open eyes. I want them to learn that everyone - EVERYONE - deserves to be loved, treated with kindness, and given respect.

If that means that for the short time they live under my roof, the accusations of hatred fly and I am repeatedly told I make them miserable, so be it. My job is not to be their friend. My goal is not for them to like me. As mom, I have a bigger purpose...

Healthy Habits = Healthy Teeth

2012-03-15T20:15:00.000-05:00

For the last three weeks, my family has been participating in the Listerine Healthy Habits Challenge. As the challenge winds down, I can't help but reflect on some of the things I have learned about my kids along the way...

~ It doesn't matter how old they get, they still like Batman, Barbie, and Phineas & Ferb
~ New stuff still motivates them (even if it's a new toothbrush or dental floss)
~ Checking off boxes on a chart fills them with a sense of accomplishment
~ Showing them how much they missed when they brush is kind of like a science experiment
~ My behaviors are still the best way to model healthy habit

Even with the challenge at the front of our minds, it was still difficult to remember simple tasks like rinsing twice a day or flossing at night. It served as a good reminder that oral health is a huge area for improvement in our home and in home across America.

Going forward, I plan to help my kids by providing floss and mouth wash to be kept in their lockers. I also will be keeping a bottle of mouth wash in my drawer at work. Dental floss is now conveniently located in the center console of my car, as well as in my purse, for those just in case when my meal is stuck between my teeth.

Listerine, Reach, WalMart, and the American Heart Association have put together a great site to help you and your family develop healthy habits for a lifetime! Check it out for great ideas on how you and your family can make positive changes to your oral care routines!

I received products and compensation from Johnson & Johnson and The Motherhood as part of my participation in the Oral Care Challenge. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are mine.

Adjusting

2012-03-13T21:43:00.001-05:00

Cookies and cream and jelly bean dreams...

Sunshine and roses...

Rainbows and unicorns...

These are the feelings one usually associates with the life changes being experienced in my home currently.

Yes, it's true. I am getting married, and I am on Cloud 9.

I have committed to forever after with the man I love. So what's the catch?

For the last 11 years, my family has been a three-man team.

Our non-routine life revolved around us. Our nuances, our struggles, our perfect imperfections. Despite the highest of highs and incredibly low lows, we worked.

Sure, there were the days I locked myself in my closet and sobbed until I couldn't possibly shed another tear. And let's not forget the nights I would cry myself to sleep, desperate for answers, clinging to the hope that God would see us through another day.

But despite the clouds of heartache that came alongside my daughter's behavioral and mental health issues, despite the anger and rage welling up inside my son when he'd reach his limits of tolerence, and despite my depression that waxed and waned with the tide of our home, we were happy.

We still are happy.

And adjusting.

The fact is, I have been a widow longer than I was ever a wife. I have been an only parent for 11 years. My children have no idea what a dad really is. What does a dad do? How does a dad act? What is a dad's role in a family? The only man I have ever lived with is my husband, and that was for less than 2 years. I don't know how to co-parent. I don't know how to let someone else participate. I don't know how to let someone do for me (without feeling guilty). And I don't know how to ask for help.

We are all adjusting. Including him.

He has never been married. He has never had kids. He has never lived with a woman...until he moved in with us.

Most days are great. We communicate well. He listens when I talk, I listen when he talks. Every once in a while the kids will even listen when someone talks. And we adjust...

Who knew that sharing my life - my family - would come with such a learning curve?

Each day brings a new challenge, and a new joy. Having a partner in life is more rewarding than I ever imagined. I know in time, this new way of being, this new family, will find its groove.

Have you ever had to make major adjustments in your own life?

Walgreens for Picture Day!

2012-03-12T19:26:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Walgreens for underwriting this post. I was paid as a member of the Clever Girls Collective, but the content is all mine. Visit http://www.discoverbeautywithin.com/.

Wedding planning is a heck of a lot more work than I ever imagined! It seems like October is forever away, but I still feel like there is so much to do and so little time.

Engagement photos are just around the corner, and I am beginning to panic. I have no idea what to wear, what the weather will be like, or how to wear my hair.

Fortunately, I know Walgreens has me covered when it comes to make-up!

Not only am I able to find a wide selection of eye shadows by Maybelline, Rimmel, and L'Oreal, I can also find all of the make-up tools I need to get the job done!

Some of my favorites include:

Source

This Soho Kabuki Brush. The bristles are goat hair, wash easily wild a mild soap, dry well, and hold their shape. I find kabuki brushes give a much more even look when applying liquid foundation and I love them waaaaay more than the standard foam triangles most of us have been trained to apply foundation with.

Source

I am also a huge fan of the ModLash fake eye lashes. They are crazy easy to put on, and they come in a variety of lengths. This way you can decide just how glam you want to go. The 21's I have here are my favorite length for more regular use! And don'f forget your Revlon eye lash curler and a fantastic volumizing mascara!

Best of all, my neighborhood Walgreens has a great assortment of Burt's Bees Lip Balms to pick from! Burt's Bees is my go-to, lip balm for all occasions, whether I'm getting all gussied up for my engagement photos, or moisturinzing before bed! I love that Walgreens has a dozen different flavors for me to pick from!

Taking Care of Our Pearly Whites

2012-02-22T08:30:00.000-06:00

On President's Day, the kids and I were discussing the old wives tale that George Washington had wooden teeth. The conversation took an interesting turn as we began to discuss their recent focus on their own personal hygiene.

When they were smaller, it was often a battle to get the kids to brush their teeth. As a mom, I was overwhelmed and frustrated with the best way to get them on board.

Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease affecting children in the U.S. today. Statistics show that 50% of kids will have at least 1 cavity or filling between the ages 5 - 9!

The statistics get even more frightening when you realize that brushing your teeth alone misses germs in 75% of our mouths. EWWW!

As part of an Oral Care Challenge in my own home, I have received LISTERINE and Reach products from Johnson & Johnson to work on developing some oral care best practices for myself and my children.

In addition to committing to brushing twice a day - at a minimum - we will be rinsing twice a day with LISTERINE products to kill as many of the cavity and decay causing germs in our mouths a we can!

Each of the kids has stashed some LISTERINE in their locker to rinse after lunch. And as a challenge to herself in the mornings, my daughter is rinsing after she brushes to make sure she got all of the "sugar bugs".

We have hung a brushing chart on the towel rack, and each of the kids will me marking it with their initials each time they brush throughout the day. The winner of the challenge will get dibs on the Phineas and Ferb SmartRinse that came in our complementary oral care package! (Yes, even at 11 & 13, they can be won over by Phineas and Ferb!)

I encourage you to start your own Oral Challenge with your family! Get more information at http://www.walmart.com/AHA/Listerine/Reach or follow along with the Twitter hashtag #healthyhabits!

Also, I would love to hear some of your family's best oral care practices! How do you encourage your kids to brush? Do you rinse? How many times a day do you brush, rinse, or floss?

I received products and compensation from Johnson & Johnson and The Motherhood as part of my participation in the Oral Care Challenge. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are mine.

The Anti-Valentines Day

2012-02-15T07:27:00.004-06:00

Traditional is rarely a word used to describe me.

I don't do routine. I have never functioned well on a schedule. I have been known to do (or not do) something simply because someone say I shouldn't (or should...).

I'm not sure when or how it started, but I don't really "do" Valentine's Day.

Sure, I have been known to pick up cheesy cards and chocolates for my kids. I enjoyed the heck out of making Valentine boxes for them to take to school, and I adore all of the cheesy Valentines they used to bring home.

But as it pertains to me, meh... Not so much.

I like the idea of taking a day to appreciate the people in your life who mean the most, but a day of romance? Elaborate, expensive gifts to show our devotion to our significant others? I don't get it.

Sure, I like fancy gifts as much as the nice girl. But in my head, a fancy gift just because is far more thoughtful than a fancy gift because it is expected.

Needless to say, my fiance' loves not having to figure out a gift that will knock my socks off. He loves that there is no pressure to plan the perfect night. And he loves that when I say, "I don't want anything." I mean, "I don't want anything." I have no hidden agenda. It's not a trap. I really, truly don't want anything.

So imagine my surprise, when climbing into bed, I found a folded piece of paper with "Kristin" written on the outside slipped under the covers.

The most amazing gift, a simple letter, printed on simple paper, with a simple message...

I love you for who you are, in good times and bad. I love you when you are at your best and when you are at your worst, and I look forward to loving you for the rest of our lives.

Simple and perfect.

Have you ever had an unexpected Valentines surprise? What is your Valentines tradition (or anti-tradition)?

Dog Food on My Doorstep

2012-02-02T20:23:00.001-06:00

You may or may not know that I am an animal nut.

I recently learned about a company called Mr. Chewy. Mr. Chewy is an online pet supply store that delivers directly to your door step.

For many years I worked for a specialty pet supply retailer. Working for this company allowed me the opportunity to become deeply involved in animal rescue. Over the last 10 years, my family has served as a foster home to over 100 dogs of various breeds, we have conducted home visits for placing pets, trained deaf dogs, and have dealt with a variety of dog special needs.

That job also allowed me the opportunity to become very well versed on the importance of animal nutrition. I wrote employee training programs that educated staff members on reading pet food labels, the dangers of clay cat litters, and proper pet care.

Our animal family consists of a beautiful and amazing rescued Great Dane, 3 old, fat, hand-me-down cats, and a 3.5 foot long Ball Python.

That being said, I'm sure you can understand when I say pet supplies are pretty necessary in my home. And with that many mouths to feed, affordable pet supplies are a must. I was thrilled that Mr. Chewy carried many of the brands I could usually only find at the local pet specialty store.

Mr. Chewy actually carries 70+ brands, including Nature's Variety, Avoderm, and Wellness! We were also able to buy our giant, Nat, her favorite treat - Greenies!

We were able to get a 30 pound bag of dog food, Bags on Board refills, and Greenies with no shipping fees, because Mr. Chewy has free shipping on orders over $49.

**This review was made possible by Mom Spark Media. Mr. Chewy provided me with credit to be able to provide a fair review of their site. All thoughts and opinions are 100% mine.

Pretty Flowers That I Can't Kill

2012-01-16T22:48:00.000-06:00

I have a black thumb. Not. Even. Kidding.

I have never been gifted at growing things. I have, in fact, killed a cactus. I wasn't trying to...

Needless to say, artificial plants and I get along.

I don't have to water them. I don't have to make sure they're getting adequate sunlight. And I certainly don't have to protect them from the curious jaws of my cats.

That's where Silk Plants Direct comes in. With a large selection of artificial plants ranging in size, Silk Plants Direct offers a wide variety of options at various price points.

Recently, I received a tulip and twig arrangement from Silk Plants Direct. The attractive arrangement stands just under 2 feet in height and makes a great centerpiece on my dining room table.

Silk Plants Direct also has some neat artificial spiral topiary that make for decorative floor pieces, as well as artificial boxwood topiary for statement table pieces.

**I was not compensated for this post, but I did recieve this lovely tulip arrangement in exchange for an honest review.

In the Waking Moments

2012-01-05T08:08:00.004-06:00

The sun is not yet waking.

The world around me is fast asleep.

I lay here and stare into the darkness.

If only I could find a way out.

My mind races with thoughts.

Solutions to the questions run through my head with fleeting notions of brilliance.

What can I do differently so I am finally happy?

Will I feel fulfilled?

The dawn begins to break.

Sounds of life will soon be stirring in my home.

I look over and see him in the glow of the early morning.

For a moment my heart and my mind are at peace.

Knowing he is here dulls the panic in my mind.

Relieved that I no longer have to do it alone.

A new day has begun, and the battle rages on.

But some how, some way I know that in the end everything will be fine.

Source

My Dirty Little Secret

2012-01-04T07:54:00.002-06:00

I read a quote recently that went like this ~

Source

Per my recent norm, it made me stop and evaluate some things in my life.

It also made me want to come clean. You see, I have a confession to make.

Over the years I have talked freely about the mental illness that took my husband's life almost 11 years ago.

I have made it no secret that my precious daughter struggles daily with several different mental health diagnoses.

I have even mentioned that my know-it-all son is afflilcted with ADHD.

However, my friends, I have never once opened up to you about me...

I've never once told you about the days on end I have spent holed up in my bedroom - until my best friend literally dragged me out and forced me to shower.

I have never shared with you my frequent bouts with self-loathing, my sometimes suicidal ideations, and thoughts of what a better place the world would be in my absence.

I can't think of a single time I have mentioned my nights in the ER because the tightness and pain in my chest was so horrible, I thought I was dying. In reality I was sufferin massive panic attacks.

I don't talk about these things because I'm ashamed. For so long I have had to hold it together for the benefit of my kids. I tell myself, they didn't choose to be born into an only parent household. They deserve a chance at a normal childhood. They need a mom who has it all together.

So I put on the mask of resilience, and I forge through each day playing the part of the mom I think my kids deserve and the part of the woman I think everyone expects me to be.

But sometimes the mask suffocates, and sometimes the part is lacking a good script. It's in those times I feel my world caving in around me. I fear that I will be discovered. That my secret will get out. That someone will know that I am far from the emotionally and mentally stable person I portray myself to be, that I'm a fraud. I fear that someone will sweep in and take my kids from me, declaring me unfit to give them their best chance.

So I cry it out. I have my panic attacks. I withdraw from the world for a little while. And I regroup.

And after the intermission, I begin the next act.

But I can't keep the secret anymore. The pain in my chest comes more frequently these days. My temper is shorter. I find satisfaction in things - simple or grand - less and less. I am beginning to realize that despite my greatest performances, I am not Super Woman. I can't fight the evil wizard, slay the dragon, and rescue the princess all by myself.

Depression is an ugly disease that causes you to believe you are less than you are. It convinces you that you deserve less than the joy God intended for you.

I have been fighting it alone for years, unbeknownst to my children, my parents, my family, and many of my close friends. But I refuse to let it steal any more life from me. I have decided it is time to face this demon head on, to fight it, and to win, so that I am able to give my kids their best chance. And so I can finally have mine.

Say What? New Year?

2012-01-02T15:26:00.001-06:00

Just in case you didn't get the memo, 2012 has arrived.

In my home, it rang itself in alone. Quietly. My daughter and I fell asleep early Saturday evening, only to be woken up ever so gently by my fiance arriving home from work at about 11:30 pm. Despite his attempts to wake me to watch the ball drop, I remained mostly sound asleep.

New Year's Day was quiet and uneventful. Perfect, in my mind.

We slept late, went out to brunch, and laid on the couch reading books for the majority of the day.

Although I am not one to make resolutions, I am one to reflect.

Reflecting back on 2011 has given me pause to evaluate that which is of most importance to me.

I went back to school in January of 2011. A full-time job found its way into my life in April 2011. The 3rd Annual Big Fat Family Road Trip found us in Seattle this past summer. My children had the opportunity to meet their late father's family for the first time.

It was a difficult choice to invite the people who never reached out after the death of their son to his children, and invite them into our lives. It was the right choice, though. My children's lives are richer because of it.

September 2011 brought the return of one that I had let go 3 years prior. I feel so blessed to have a second chance with a man I love so much.

As I stare 2012 straight in the eyes, I wonder what it has in store for me. Had you told me at this time last year I would be working and going to school, both full-time, planning a wedding, and would have a partner in life, I would have said you were cuh-razy.

It just goes to show, it's not always our plans that prevail.

Here is to a blessed and wonderous 2012 to all of my friends in Blognia!

Movie Night? Game Night? REDBOX!

2011-12-28T08:40:00.001-06:00

It's always a challenge keeping the kids busy over winter break.

As they get bigger, the standard trip to the museum gets mundane, and going to the movies costs about as much as the mortgage payment. This is where REDBOX comes in!

Photo Credit

In addition to all of the latest movies, REDBOX offers an assortment of video games for Wii, XBox 360, and the PS3. Having two different gaming systems in the house, this feature comes in handy!

While my son hunkered down in his room to get his COD:MW3 on, Ahna, her best friend, and I got our groove on with Just Dance 3! While the girls got a kick out of learning fun dance moves to California Girls and Party Rock Anthem, I enjoyed a little Boogie Wonderland by Earth, Wind, and Fire. Yeah...I'm getting old.

As the night wound down, the girls pulled out the sleeper bed on the new couch my fiance and I bought ourselves for Christmas, and we laughed and cried to The Help, which we also rented out of the REDBOX.

The fact that there are 6 REDBOXes withing 5 minutes of my house make them crazy convenient. Video game rentals are only $2 a night, and movies are usually just $1 (unless you get BluRay, I'm not that fancy).

***I received free REDBOX rentals and an XBOX game in exchange for this review/movie & game night. All thoughts and opinions are mine.

I Have a Dream... A Cancer Free Dream

2011-12-21T08:10:00.000-06:00

I recently learned about the life of a woman I had never met being cut short by cancer. This woman's battle was well under way when she learned that her youngest son would be fighting the dreaded "c" word himself. Although the young boy is in remission, if he has to fight again, it will be without his mama by his side.

In the last two weeks, my SIL and brother have been in and out of doctors' appointments. Her recent oncology follow-up should signs of suspicious lumps. While the best case scenario would be the lumps are fat necrosis due to unexpected radiation treatment after her reconstructive breast surgery, the doctors don't want to take any chances. The lumps have been biopsied, and my SIL sits in wait to learn her prognosis.

Many years ago, a woman I loved like my own mother was laid to rest. After putting up an amazing fight, colon cancer finally claimed her life.

I long for a world that is cancer free. Hopefully someday, that won't sound like a ridiculous dream.

This post is sponsored by American Cancer Society.

After School is Easy with Tyson!

2011-12-20T08:00:00.001-06:00

After school time can be crazy at my home.

The kids bust through the door, a whirlwind of energy, homework to do, and bellies grumbling.

It is a challenge to find something quick and easy that the kids can make for themselves. The usual suspects are PB&J and mac n' cheese. I often wish they could have something more substantial, but not something to make them too full for dinner.

Enter Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches... Quick and easy to make, they come packaged two minis per pack. Pop the bag in the microwave for 50 seconds, flip and heat for another 40 seconds, and voila! Snack is served!

My kids are intent on doing everything on their own, so after seeing how easy it was for my son to make his, my daughter jumped right in and made her own. They come 8 sandwiches to a box, and my kids made two each for snack; then they heated up two more each and packed them to take for lunch the next day!

Tyson is offering Only Parent Chronicles readers a special offer - buy 2 Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches at participating a participating Walmart, and receive a $5 Walmart gift card! These convenient sandwiches are available at select Walmart locations. Visit TysonGoodness.com to find a location near you!

#TysonGoodness will definitely be a part of the after school routine around here.

This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Mom Spark Media. All opinions shared are my own.

You Can Dance!!!

2011-12-14T08:26:00.002-06:00

This past weekend was full of festivities for me and my family.

The most fun had to be on Friday night, when I had a gaggle of giggling girls in my home for an ABBA You Can Dance party on the Wii!

This crazy, fun, four-player game had the tweens dancing and laughing for hours. All the girls joined in on the fun as they danced to all of the ABBA hits they knew from the musical "Mamma Mia".

Photo Credit

The girls were cracking me up as they all did their best disco impressions by the light of the disco ball. I swear that on every. single. song. they asked, "Is this how they danced when you were a kid?"

How old do they think I am, anyway!?!?!?

Depending on the number of players, you can select your character designed to resemble each of the four awesome members of ABBA. The costumes change for each song. There is also a karaoke version (which requires a microphone sold separately) and a musical performance option.

The girls got a kick out of the sweet 70's get-ups and hair-dos on the characters, and loved the fun 50's clothes in the musical.

It was a lot of fun listening to the girls all singing ABBA at the top of their lungs during the game, and again later when they were tucked in to Mamma Mia at bed time.

I look forward to having a girls' night with my girlfriends to see if they enjoy the ABBA dance party as much as my daughter, her friends, and I do.

The game retails for $39.99, but can be found on Amazon for $29.99 currently.

Thank you to Ubisoft for sponsoring this blog post. Please click here to learn more about Ubisoft. I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective. All opinions are my own.

I'm Too Old for Elmo. Are You? Sesame Street Live - Elmo Makes Music

2011-12-09T08:16:00.002-06:00

Last week I repainted the living room, getting the wall ready to hang the television that came with ~~the new roommate~~ my fiance.

Once the new TV was hung, I went through and cleaned out the old entertainment center. It was time to purge the VCR tapes that were collecting dust.

As I was sorting through what I was going to donate and what I couldn't bear to part with, my fiance made a comment about all of the Sesame Street videos. Mostly Elmo videos.

"Which of the kids is the Elmo nut?" he asked.

With a goofy grin on my face, I simply replied, "I have had those Elmo videos longer than I have had the kids."

Yes, in high school and college, I was a closet Elmo junkie.

What does that have to do with anything?

Well.... Let me tell you...

ELMO IS COMING TO THE TARGET CENTER!!!

I know, I am a spaz. But seriously, do you know how bummed I am that my kids are too big to be interested?

Sesame Street Live - Elmo Make Music will be at the Target Center in Minneapolis from January 12 - 15, 2012.

Jenny, an enthusiastic new music teacher, arrives on Sesame Street only to discover that her instruments are missing. Jenny’s new Muppet friends quickly come to the rescue and discover ‘instruments’ they never knew existed… rubber duckies, trash can lids and even cookie jars! Elmo and friends teach children that everyone can make and enjoy beautiful music together!

In addition to this awesome, family friendly show, there will also be a play zone for all to enjoy!

Come and play BEFORE the show! VEE Corporation introduces Play Zone at Sesame Street Live - a fun new way for children to experience their favorite street! Imagine your child sitting in Big Bird's nest, popping up in Oscar's trash can, twirling in Zoe's dance studio or visiting Elmo's World. A few furry friends may also make a surprise appearance! Families won't want to miss a single moment of fun. Play Zone opens one hour before the show and - best of all - Play Zone is FREE with your Sesame Street Live ticket. And Target Center box office would love to set Only Parent Chronicles readers up with a discount coupon that is valid for any show and good on ticket orders through January 11! Simply click on the picture below to print and redeem!

Disclosure: Only Parent Chronicles received four free vouchers to see Sesame Street Live - Elmo Makes Music in exchange for this post and coupon offer. I'm so excited to get a report back from my 3 and 5 year-old nephews on its pure awesomeness!!

Scuba Steve, Scuba Sam, Getting Kids to Do What They Should

2011-12-08T08:16:00.001-06:00

I saw a post the other day, by Mommy's Fabulous, titled "I Miss Steve." And while this post was really about kids' programming and the absence of Steve on Blue's Clues, somehow it made me think of Scuba Steve.

You know, the doll from Big Daddy?

Which then made me think of Adam Sandler's character dressing up as Scuba Sam, Scuba Steve's father, to get Julian (the kiddo) to take a bath.

There are so many things in life that we, as parents, try to teach our kids. I know that when my kids were small, bath time wasn't always the easiest. Heck, even now, it is difficult to tear them away from life to take a shower.

What are some of the biggest challenges you have had with teaching your kids good habits? Has anyone ever resorted to something as drastic as Scuba Sam?

Digital Memories

2011-12-07T08:03:00.002-06:00

I have never been a scrapbooker.

I have friends that create these amazing scrapbooking masterpieces, and as a result leave me feeling completely inadequate.

I take pictures. Lots of pictures. I even have fun editing them and making them look great.

But I never do anything with them, aside from posting them here or on Facebook, occasionally.

Recently I learned about a scrapbooking software called "My Memories Suite", and it hit me. I am always on the computer. I am a blogger, a social media marketer, and an online student. The reason I never scrapbook is quite frankly, it would require me to set my laptop down.

This digital scrapbooking software lets me create scrapbooking albums without going through the hassle of printing photos, cutting, gluing, and then changing my mind and starting over. The software gives me options for background colors, paper, templates, and textures I can use to create my album pages. Then I just search my extensive photo library on my computer and insert them where ever I like!

The scrapbook software allows me the ability to trim my photos into neat shapes and add neat embellishments. There are also word art features, video and multimedia functions, and the option to add music and narration.

Looking through all of the features, I realized this would be a really great way to put all of the Big Fat Family Road Trips into album form, as well as a great way to capture some of the really great moments coming up, as I plan my wedding.

When I received my copy of the My Memories Suite software, I got version 2. Version 3 is currently available and retails for only $37.97! You can purchase your copy here. My Memories is offering a $10 coupon code to Only Parent Chronicles readers, as well as a $10 discount at the My Memory store using the following code - STMMMS77023.

My Memories would also like to offer a free copy of this neat software to one lucky Only Parent Chronicles Reader!

To win: This giveaway is open to residents of the continental United States and Canada 18 years of age and older. If your email address is not visible in your profile, you must leave it in your comments. Winner will be selected randomly using Random.org and must reply within 48 hours of notification or a new winner will be selected. If potential winner forfeits or does not claim the prize, prize will be re-awarded, at Only Parent Chronicles sole discretion. Giveaway will be open from 9:00 am December 7, 2011 through 5:00pm December 14, 2011. Void where prohibited by law.

Mandatory entry: Leave a comment Telling us which of the My Memories Suite digital packs or templates is your favorite. No purchase necessary. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning.

Be sure to check My Memories on Facebook and Twitter to see what others are saying about this neat, digital scrapbooking software! You can also check out their blog for tips and tricks!

Disclosure: We received a free copy of My Memories Suite scrapbooking software for review purposes. A free copy will also be provided to one winner at no cost to Only Parent Chronicles. Only Parent Chronicles will be compensated for each individual who uses the discount code mentioned above.

Traditions

2011-12-06T08:39:00.002-06:00

****Last week I received one comment asking when Post-It Note Tuesday would be going up. After much deliberation, I decided to put #PINT on a shelf for a while. As always, if you would like to create a post using Post-It Notes, you can do so here.****

Traditional is rarely a word used to describe me.

Holiday season is really no exception.

Over the years, my children and I have attempted to form rituals, traditions, and family customs. All of our attempts have been to no avail.

There have been Christmases spent at home, Christmases in Chicago; we even spent one Christmas in Florida.

The Christmas tree goes up when it goes up. I think last year it finally went up a few days before Christmas. One year, it didn't make it up at all. (Relax! We went out of town, the kids still had a Christmas tree!)

This year, as our family grows from 3 to 4, I decided some new traditions should begin.

But what?

Originally I thought it would be great to set the tree up and decorate it the day after Thanksgiving. But my fiance' had to work, and we recently ordered a new couch, and I still had to paint the living toom...

As I talked myself out of creating this new tradition, I realized, I am really good at talking myself out of things. I am also great at making excuses.

So I ask you, my wise and insightful bloggy friends, what are your holiday traditions? What do you do each year that if you skipped it, your holidays would feel incomplete?

Gratuitous Plea for Votes

2011-12-04T23:41:00.000-06:00

As you may know, I will be tying the knot in October of 2012.

Weddings are insanely expensive, and as an only parent, coming up with extra money can often prove tricky.

In an effort to fund the wedding of my dreams, I have entered a contest to win $5000 to put towards my special day.

The winner is determined excusively by votes, so I am turning to you, my wonderful bloggy friends, to throw me a bone.

Please visit my entry to America's Top Bride and vote for me once a day from now until December 12. I cannot tell you how much $5000 would do for me and paying for my wedding!

Thank you in advance for all of your support!

As They Grow...

2011-12-03T19:02:00.000-06:00

The sound of laughter and goofiness floats up the stairs.

It is the sound of tween girls having fun.

She has struggled all of her life with friendships.

She can be bossy. Demanding. Inpatient.

She is also kind. Thoughtful. Generous.

And although she is the girl who gets excluded from giant slumber parties, she is also the girl who would give someone else her sleeping bag if they needed it.

Although she expects people to play the game she chooses, she will quickly let you win if she thinks losing will hurt your feelings.

And although she wants what she wants and she wants it now, she is happy to share with you once she has it.

As the snow was falling late this afternoon, she paced the living room anxiously.

Her new friend was late. I was certain it was because of the snow. She was certain her friend had decided she didn't want to come.

She is nervous she is going to blow it. She is scared her friend won't like her after staying over. She is afraid that she is going to say or do something to make her new friend mad.

Listening from upstairs, I can hear that she is doing fine.

She is growing up, and she is learning what being a friend is.

I hear her asking, not telling.

I hear her listening, not interrupting.

And I know that this is the beginning of a very positive change for her.

Embracing Happily Ever After

2011-11-28T08:00:00.001-06:00

There are so many cliches about life.

The one I hear most frequently was immortalized by Tom Hanks and an awful southern drawl in Forrest Gump, "Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get."

While that is incredibly simple and insightful all at once, more often than not, it induces involuntary eyerolls and slight gag reflexes.

Each day we make our way through our own realities.

Some seem to glide through seamlessly, while others seem to stumble over hurdles along the way.

I, like many of you, have had my fair share of hurdles. And while it's easy to look back and list all of the things we'd like to change, I can honestly say I believe I am a better person for having lived through my experiences.

Recently, I have been somewhat absent from this space.

There are a number of reasons for that. Life gets busy, and we are forced to prioritize that which is most important.

In April, I went through an ugly break up with a man I dated for just over a year. He is a nice guy. He just wasn't the guy for me. For many months after the split, I felt I needed to censor my words. My safe place, Only Parent Chronicles, became not so safe any longer, and I had to separate myself from this outlet.

In September, a man I had been engaged to previously moved back to Minnesota and back into my life. We are once again planning our happily ever after. This decision makes my heart feel full. My children now have a father figure to see them through their teen years, and I have a partner.

Which leaves me struggling with my only parent status.

I believe that once a single/only parent, always a single/only parent. And while this space will be less talk of how I manage on my own, I hope that readers old and new can look back to my roots and realize that I have been through the fire. I have battled on the front lines, and I have lived life without reinforcements.

I am just now embracing my happily ever after.

When I Knew We Were Complete ~ Win a Designer Handbag from #Essure

2011-11-23T07:00:00.004-06:00

As a teen, I never envisioned myself as a mother. However, at 20, when I got married, I knew that my family would not be complete without the pitter patter of little feet.

At 21, my first child was welcomed into the world, and if you've read my story, you know life was far from smooth sailing from there. Just under two years later, my husband and I welcomed our second child into the world. Like her brother, she added her perfect something special to our family. We were complete.

Life had it's own plans for my new family, and six short months after welcoming my daughter into the world, my children and I said good-bye to my husband.

Raising children on your own is a difficult endeavor. Motherhood is filled with joy and struggle. At times I felt that life was testing me to the very limits of my being. Without a partner to act as a buffer ot a sounding board, I sometimes wondered how I would ever survive.

I will be 40 when my youngest child graduates from high school. At this age, many of my friends will still have children in elementary and middle school. I knew long before I turned 30 that I was done having children.

At 26, I had a tubal ligation.

I remember making the decision and being asked by everyone if I was sure.

I had never been more sure about anything in my life. Seven years later, I can honestly say I have never regretted my choice.

I'm curious to know: How and when do you decide your family is complete? Join the conversation and be entered to WIN the designer handbag of your choice (Up to a $500 value) from Essure!

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Essure. The opinions and text are all mine. Official Contest Rules.