Rugrats + Royalty

To Delete or Not to Delete?!?

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Mon, 10 Nov 2014 21:01:00 +0000

Hello again friends! Not sure that anyone still reads this because I'm so terrible at keeping this blog updated! I always have the greatest of intentions when it comes to this place but I never seem to be able to keep them up...post once a week at least Caroline! It's funny because I was talking to the Princess about starting a diary + how wonderful it is to be able to have a spot to write out your feelings, even if it's something simple + mundane, yet I can't seem to keep that up myself. I sometimes think that in our day & age of technology, we've lost the art of writing (which is why I think I love calligraphy + handlettering so much) so I feel that keeping an online diary is wrong or lazy. Sometimes I think I'm putting too much of myself "out there" on display. It can be tough to really express your feelings not knowing exactly who is reading them + being apprehensive about letting too much go. And sometimes, I just don't feel like I have that much to say...that my musings mean nothing to anyone...I'm not helping anyone with what I write nor am I contributing to society in a meaningful way. I wonder if it's worth it...worth the stress that I feel about keeping this blog + the content that I think I should have. It certainly was a whole lot easier to keep this up when I was a stay at home mom. So much has changed since then. Still, I feel a pull to come back here...to let myself go + just talk about me. I've often said that this would be a place that my littles would be able to come back to when they are older + find out just how I was doing or what I was thinking. And then I think I should just print the important pieces + place them in my diary (which has been untouched for years) + continue on a written journey where I can express how I was feeling truthfully + without worry of judgement. I think that's yet to be determined. Sitting here, writing this, makes me think that maybe it would be a good idea to just delete this written history (after printing the important parts) + start a fresh journey.

I guess time will tell.

Today

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 19:55:00 +0000

I posted this today in my single moms group:

Just realized that today would have been my 13th wedding anniversary.

I marvel at the woman I've become...a strong, independent, happy woman who is a good friend, family member & single mom. I still struggle with the death of my marriage...not missing "him" but missing someone...someone to make the school lunches when I'm sick of it, someone to watch the kids while I have a bath after a long day at work, someone to bounce ideas off of, someone to "share" life with.

I can, with all honesty, say that I am happier & a better mom now than I was when we were together but there's still something about today that makes me a little sad & realize that on this day, every year, I'll just be a little less of myself.

All by Myself

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Thu, 03 Jul 2014 16:25:00 +0000

I think we all have those days where we struggle to make it through. Those days that are never ending...the time seems to not move at all...the minutes feel like hours. This is one of those days. I'm struggling today. I feel empty. I'm even finding it hard to find the strength to type & keep my eyes open.

I'm not a person that wears my heart on my sleeve. When I talk to friends about my emotions, it's usually with fury...angry with what the world has dealt me. But today...today is different. I'm exceptionally quiet. I'm trying to find a calm peace that doesn't make me sob at my desk. I feel sick & disoriented. I feel like if I were my own friend, I would feel sorry for this person...I would feel sorry for me. And it doesn't seem to be one thing that set me off. I don't know why it's today. I'm feeling much like this:

Like that cartoon character that walks around with a dark cloud over her...following her wherever she goes.

It's yet another one of those days that the weight of the world is on my shoulders...where the littlest things bear the heaviest load...where it takes all my energy to accomplish the smallest of tasks.

Some days, when I'm all by myself, are better than others.

Decompressing

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Wed, 19 Feb 2014 21:12:00 +0000

Ugh. I'm having one of those days. One of those days were the weight of the world seems to be directly on my shoulders. It seems to have all caught up with me + I'm feeling overwhelmed + blue.

I've been searching for a car for months + everyone I see is just not it. I know that the right car will present itself in time + that I need to learn patience but I just want the process to be over. It began as something that I looked forward to...exciting + fun. Now, it's heartbreaking + I am so done with it.

My daughter is struggling with school + I don't know how to help her. She's not getting bad grades but seems to have a very "lazy" attitude towards completing work. She is a week + a half behind on a project + I'm worried for her. If she develops bad habits now, what's Grade 9 going to be like? Unfortunately, she is not able to bring the project home because she "may get help from an older sibling or mom/dad might do it for her" which I understand but also don't understand...she obviously needs guidance which isn't being prescribed at school (which is possibly true as I can't imagine governing 20 students at once) but wouldn't it then be best to send it home so that I could work one on one with her? *sigh* I've done the talks, I've done the getting angry + I'm spent. But I desperately want my child to succeed in school + be confident with the brains that I *know* she has.

The icing on the cake is that I have no one. No one to bounce ideas off of, no one to reinforce what I'm telling them both, no one else to be the bad guy. It's all me. And I'm feeling like I am {always} the bad guy. I'm trying to celebrate their successes + do fun things but I'm the one demanding they brush their teeth, put down the electronics, be nice to your brother/sister, stop pushing/fighting/chewing with your mouth open, turn off the lights, pick up your dirty clothes + so on + so on + so on. I know this doesn't make me a bad mommy but some days, I just want to not be the responsible one.

Today is one of those days. A day that I wish I could have just stayed in bed, stop my head from reeling + not feel like I want to cry all.day.long.

Good Riddance 2013!

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Fri, 10 Jan 2014 19:55:00 +0000

As the day of New Year's Eve dawned, I was slow in rising out of bed. This was the last day in a year that was unpleasant in so many ways. I think that my apprehension came from having endured so much over the last 18 months + feeling like the "burden" would never be lifted. It put me in a bit of a mood...why was I so angry + upset that this year was coming to a close when what I longed for was a fresh new one?

It's hard to exactly capture the feelings that I had that morning + I silently kept them to myself as the Princess is so intuitive + I'm sure she would have questioned me if I didn't turn my attitude around. The day proceeded along + we had plans to get together with my parents later in the evening for a 'kid-friendly' New Year's Eve celebration downtown.

Throughout the day, I had a silent nagging...kind of like when someone keeps poking you + won't stop...that irritating feeling. And I was angry. I was angry with everything that my life had become. I didn't sign up for this shit...this was not MY idea of how my life should be...why didn't I have the foresight to see that this would happen...could I have somehow prevented it?

We proceeded downtown + it was freezing...one of the coldest nights of our Winter season yet. It just added to my dismal day. I tried to get excited over the Selena Gomez/Justin Bieber/Carly Rae Jepsen impersonators by singing + dancing for the Princess but she just gave me the "how embarrassing are you Mom?" look + stood as far away from me as she could {since when did that start?}

As the countdown (to 8p for the wee ones) started, I reflected on the fact that I was standing there with the 4 most important people in my life...my mom, my dad, my son + my daughter. The 4 people that are my rocks + the main reason I was able to survive the last 18 months with some sense of stability. And slowly it came. A smile + watery eyes knowing that there was no place I'd rather be. That the turmoil inevitably led me here with the people that I loved + cared for so deeply. As the fireworks erupted, I looked at my {littles} + they were happy + they were having fun + they loved me just as much as I loved them.

We finally left the ice cold + headed home for bed. I let the cold get the best of me + I started on a downward spiral again thinking of all the crap I'm going to have to put up with in the coming months. It's heavy shit + I'm not looking forward to it. After we settled the {littles} into bed, my parents stayed + I told them they could go home but they insisted that unless I was tired + wanted to go to bed, they weren't going anywhere. My Dad (who can read me like a book) told me that I looked like I had just lost my puppy + to snap out of it. It took me a while but I tried. Why ruin their New Year's too? I thought.

As Ryan Seacrest pattered on with his "didn't move an inch in the blustery wind" hair + chalk white teeth, I let my mind wander + tried to snap out of my funk. Why was I being so negative? I had to think positively about the accomplishments that I had over the past year.

I was able to buy a house all on my own...no co-signer...just little ole me. And it's the perfect house for all of us (minus the two driveways + sidewalk I have to clear in the winter). I'm starting to slowly work on decorating each room the way that I want it + {gasp!} spending money on new things instead of accepting hand me downs or buying second hand. I still have some vintage items {can't keep those things away} but recently bought myself two matching chairs + two matching smoked glass lamps for the living room. I'm currently on the hunt for a coffee table + end tables to complete the living room. As much as it hurt to move out of the Yellow Brick house, I knew I had to...there would be too many bad memories there. It was difficult to see this new house as our home but as time passed, it began to feel like home + as I add these touches to each room, it is the place that I always come back to...it is home.

One of my biggest accomplishments was in becoming a single mama. I've gotta say...I do a damn good job! My kids are still alive, are fed, clothed + sheltered! Of course, I have help from my parents too. Honestly though, friends, sometimes it's hard...really hard. There are days when I want to say screw it + throw in the towel. Have I mentioned my HATE for making school lunches? It's hard not having someone to fall back on when you've had a rough day at work, just want a glass of wine + a hot bath but you have no choice but to pull out the bologna + make sandwiches at 10pm at night. And sometimes I let my anger take over on that one...he never has to do lunches, never has to ensure that school papers get back on time, never has to help with homework, never has to make sure they get to Beavers/Guides/dance/sports on time. It's all on me. To be honest, I wouldn't have it any other way but it would be nice to have someone to turn to + say "hey, your turn tonight".

There are a lot of things that I need to put more focus on...my business, more family time, more me. But I'm ready to say goodbye to 2013 + embark on a new journey in 2014. A journey that will fulfill me + goals to accomplish. I'm hopeful that 2014 will be a year that will expand my knowledge + self worth.

I went to bed that night, no longer in a shitty mood. Full of good, hopeful thoughts that will see me through the next year. I kissed my kids again + whispered "Happy New Year". It will truly be just that.

Blessings + Bummers

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Tue, 26 Nov 2013 19:49:00 +0000

I'm in a reflective mood today + I'm not sure if it's because I'm PMSing or because it's getting closer to Christmas. Regardless, I've had some single mama musings on the brain lately + feel the need to get them out. I even had a nightmare about it last night so it's time to put my thoughts down.

Throughout this whole journey, I have had my share of blessings + bummers. It's amazing what can come of a marriage dissolving besides the obvious. I feel like I've lost some friends...I feel uplifted + supported by the most unlikely people...I feel hurt by those that I thought were close to me. Unfortunately, when you're grieving the loss of the marriage, it's difficult to bear the load of the other lost relationships. It's like someone rolled me over, again + again, with a steamroller.

My blessings have come from some of the most unlikely places. Of course, I am + continue to be fully supported by my parents, my extended family + my closest friends. But I've received an outpouring of support from some key people at work. Good friends at work have become better friends. They listen to me vent, they offer their advice + provide me with some comic relief. It's no secret around here what I've gone through as I've slowly learned to talk about it + there are a couple of other women here that have gone through similar things.

I have become super close to a great person who lifts me up almost daily. She has gone above + beyond, knowing when I'm having a bad day, blessing me with flowers + sweet gifts. But more than that, she has provided a guiding voice that is wise well beyond her years. You see, friends, she's more than 15 years younger than me but she has a wisdom + advice that constantly amazes me. She always seems to know what I need...snap out of it, gentle assurances, offering another perspective. I am so grateful for her + her friendship + I don't think that I can ever thank her enough or let her know just how lucky I am to have her in my life.

Another close co-worker (I call him my work husband) quietly checks up on me + makes sure I'm okay. He's a sweetheart + whoever snags this one will be a lucky gal! Most of our customer service staff have been unbelievable as well (I used to be a member of their team). They offer support, an ear for listening + are some of the greatest friends I could ask for.

Another surprising source of support has come from some online gals that I hardly know in person. We were on another group page together when we all found we were in the same situations at the same time. Now we encourage + uplift each other when we're having a rough day or celebrate each other's achievements (which may seem small to those that aren't single parents). And all of this through Facebook! Not only have I received the utmost of respect + {great} advice from these ladies but it's just nice to know that I'm not alone in what I'm going through.

I found this quote today:

It sang to me. I sometimes feel like I'm dragging my feet...just getting by + I'm worried that some of that may stem from the fact that I'm still harbouring some disappointment. I'm certain that my nightmare last night was due to my feelings weighing heavily on my heart. It's sometimes hard to keep a smile on my face when so much is bothering me but I do so + I trudge on for my kids.

The loss of friends have been few...thankfully. There are those that have alienated themselves from me. I'm not sure why. Is it because we don't share the "married life" woes anymore? Is it that they don't know what to say? I sometimes wish that they would just talk to me + we could work it out together or just say "I'm not comfortable anymore" so I knew why. It's the unknowing that hurts. However, I take solice in those that have chosen to support me + stay by my side as I know these are the {true} friends that I can take with me on my journey forward.

Unfortunately, one of the biggest bummers that I've encountered has been my ex in-laws. I feel hurt + am bothered by the way that things were handled on their end. Now, I know that blood is thicker than water...I get that...but I honestly thought that we had a good relationship + that they would do, say, stand up more. I know that my EX made his decision + there was no way to change his mind + honestly, I'm {SO} much better without him...I realize that now. But, I felt degraded + like I was kicked in the gut when my ex in-laws chose to invite the woman that my EX was having an affair with into their home. Yes, into their home. For wine. It was so non-chalent, as if it was almost necessary. Oh, I forgot to mention, it was while my kids were there too. What does this teach them? That adults, that they looked up to, were inviting my husband's (yes, we were + technically still are married) mistress into their home. I was appalled. Then came the "becoming friends" + "likes" on Facebook. Stupid that I let it get to me but not the behaviour that I would have expected from people that I held so dear to my heart. Was I that easily replaceable?

I think back to all that we did to make my ex MIL comfortable at our wedding when her + my ex FIL were separated. How we did things to make sure she was comfortable + okay. How come I wasn't afforded the same? How come my feelings were swept under the rug as if everything was just fine?

It's not that they did nothing...they did try. I don't blame them for what happened...I know it wasn't their decision. I just feel like they could have said more...they could have done more...like slammed the door in his face when he showed up with "her". I know that my parents would have wiped the floor clean with my brother if he had done the same.

And now the new girlfriend...they have accepted her as well + treat her with the same respect. It hurts to see that the values that I thought were present are not there, that they are not the people that I thought they were. It's all so easy to just "accept" what is happening instead of raising a fuss + telling someone that what they have done, what they are doing, what they are teaching their children, is wrong. Sometimes in life we turn a blind eye thinking it's for the better not opening our eyes to the hurt that we may be causing others.

Sadly, they've unfortunately alienated their grandchildren as well. I will not stop them from having a relationship because I feel that it is important to know your grandparents. But, when the questions come, when the {littles} are older, I will not lie to them. I will tell them how hurt I was...that their grandparents didn't do more...that they stood by + supported someone who shouldn't have received it...that they let someone's feelings get hurt...that they didn't do the right thing.

They will know that this behaviour is wrong...it is not how people go about life. And thankfully, I know they will understand this because I will have raised them this way.

Budget Birthday Party Ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Wed, 30 Oct 2013 19:59:00 +0000

Hi friends! For those of you that follow my Instagram feed, I apologize that this post is a couple of days late in going up...it's been a crazy couple of days at my job that brings home the bacon!

On Saturday, the Rugrat turned 6 years old. He's still small in stature which is fine by me but you can tell by his actions + speech that he's growing up {sniff, sniff}. I decided to let him have a small party this year + told him he could invite 5 classmates to our home. I asked him if he wanted a certain party theme + being a typical 6 year old, he asked for Superheroes.

Here's a peek at the low-key (but still on theme) party that I threw:

Here are my best tips for a budget friendly soiree:

No matter when your party falls, plan the party leading up to Halloween. I was able to get the superhero capes, straws, bat decorations + loot bag items at Dollarama/Dollar Tree which saved me quite a bit of cash. For the Rugrat's 4th birthday, we had a pirate theme + again, most of the decor + lootbag items (which included a pirate hat & sword) were found at Dollarama.
Think about the modifications you can do to a simple store bought cake. I bought the white round cake at our local grocery store for $5. I bought the striped ribbon at Michaels utilizing a 40% off coupon + bought the small confetti stars at Bulk Barn. I then used some of the Rugrat's superhero figures to add height. In the end, I got a Captain America/Batman/Spiderman cake for less than $10. You could most certainly buy a plain white cake + buy icing gel to draw/write on the cake or cake stencils or simply look around your house to see what you can find.
Think small. This may seem to go against all the gorgeous parties that you see all over the internet but honestly, the smallest things were the biggest hit. The boys devoured the Captain America fruit skewers that were made from blueberries + strawberries. Sometimes the smallest details have the biggest impact.
Do as much as you can yourself utilizing a colour scheme + it will look like a professional party! I made the loot bag tags using the same paper that was used to create the invites (which, by the way, Twisted Thistle Designs, can create for you!) + it gave the whole party a cohesive feel + look.

So, those are my tried + true tips. If you have any budget party tips, please leave them in the comments below...I'm off to plan a slumber party for the Princess!

I participate in the link parties found HERE

Family Vacation - Days Four to Eleven

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Thu, 24 Oct 2013 20:10:00 +0000

You know what y'all? I was going to blog about every single day of our vacation as a memory of what we were doing + when. But then it occured to me...rather than write about the memories, I should be a part of them. So I put down the iPad + began living. Don't worry...I'm not going all "technology is the root of all evil" on you but sometimes I think that we get so caught up in capturing the moments that we forget to {live} in the moments. So, to sum up vacation days four to eleven, we:

swam in the ocean
chased birds on the beach
saw a jellyfish
watched dolphins jumping in + out of the waves
had tickle fights in the back seat of the car
walked hand in hand
searched for {perfect} seashells on the beach
laughed
watched the sunrise
played Simon Says in the pool
had picnics around the pool
shopped for keepsakes
ate delicious food
cheered hole in ones at the mini golf
watched the fishermen
listened to the sound of the waves at night before falling asleep
travelled many miles

We are now home + I am still longing for the beach & sunshine because it's become cold at home...one of my first tasks was putting on the heat! Still, I'm happy to be home + back into a routine. The kids were starting to miss their friends + I think we had the perfect timeline.

And instead of writing about the memories, I have a heart full of them.

I participate in the link parties found HERE

Family Vacation - Day Three

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Tue, 15 Oct 2013 03:01:00 +0000

Today started out looking gloomy. The weather report showed that it was supposed to rain all day. Yuck. We had breakfast + decided to take a walk along the beach before the rain started. We walked all the away along with the {littles} jumping the waves + running along the beach. It warmed my heart to see them enjoying the ocean the way I did when I was younger...chasing the tide in + out. We went along to the pier, had a drink + walked back. It was so glorious...the sand, the salt water over my feet, the ocean air. It felt good. Seeing the joy on the {littles} faces was the best part.

After our return to the condo, we came upstairs to get ready to go down to our pool. The skies seemed to clear at that very moment + the sun came out. However, the outdoor pool was freezing! Grandpa pushed the Princess in + oh nelly...that was the wrong thing to do! Princess meltdown in 3...2...1...she soon got over it + the fun started! We were in + out of pools, hot tubs, the sand + the {littles} spent so much time jumping waves + playing in + around the ocean. We even had a picnic on the boardwalk. Sheer bliss!

Tonight, we had a quick look around some shops, a quick dinner + the Rugrat got to pick the mini golf spot. He picked Jurassic Golf...a perfect spot for an (almost) 6 year old boy...full of dry ice + giant dinosaur statues!

The day ended with two very tired people...the Rugrat couldn't even last until "home" + promptly fell asleep in the car on my shoulder. The {littles} are sunkissed + happy.

So very thankful on this Thanksgiving Monday for our vacation but more so the smiles + laughter of the {littles} exploring + experiencing new things.

Happy Thanksgiving sweet friends!

Family Vacation - Day One & Day Two

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Sun, 13 Oct 2013 21:34:00 +0000

And so it begins...the great adventure of 2013. We are on our way to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina! The drive was daunting for me as this is my first trip as a single mom so thankfully Nana & Grandpa decided to join us...I am so grateful for them coming along!

This is our first vacation in such a long time. We spent a couple of days in the summer in Pennsylvania at Splash Lagoon but we haven't been anywhere "big" as a family in such a long time. The last big trip we had was when the Rugrat was 6 months old & we flew to Britain. I feel like my heart has craved this trip for a long while. Everything that happened was so draining + happened so quickly (but in some ways so slowly, too). The new house has been fantastic + I am so very happy there as are the {littles} but I felt we needed something else. Some time to just get away + enjoy each other's company + have fun!

And I'm so pleased we choose Myrtle Beach. This was my childhood...long car trips, beaches, sand. My parents often took my brother + I to Myrtle Beach. While other families frequented Florida, we always came here. I have so many fond memories of times in Myrtle Beach. I'm excited to show the {littles} all that it is + share with them what feels like a part of my history. The Princess has been here before...I had just found out I was pregnant with her the last time I came this way...almost 10 years ago. In fact, her very first teddy bear was one I made at the Build-A-Bear in MB.

Day One, we left super early in the morning (5am) on our trip. The {littles} were very good + the trip was long. We drove for 10 hours, stops included, to arrive in Beckly, West Virginia. The drive was great...sunshine + the glowing reds, oranges + yellows of the tree lined highways. We all changed into our jammies + crawled into the beds + snuggled + watched TV. Soon, we were all in dreamland.

Day Two - We were all awake early because we all fell asleep so quickly. We got washed + dressed + headed down for the continental breakfast. Bags in the car, we began the journey to Myrtle Beach! A few stops + 6 hours later, we're here! Our condo is beautiful...right on the beach! So excited for the days ahead + the {littles} were absolute gems for the whole ride. Thankful on our Canadian Thanksgiving for this fabulous getaway with my Rugrat + Princess + the memories we'll create this week.

Friday Phone Dump

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Fri, 13 Sep 2013 18:20:00 +0000

Hello sweet friends! Sorry for the lack of posts...it has been super hectic around here! Being a single mama can be tough! We got back to school + the {littles} are loving their new educational home! They quickly made new friends (super pleased because the Princess had some problems with shyness in the past) + both are enamoured by their teachers. I love the school because it is small + homey + everyone is so pleasant! We had a hiccup yesterday when some of the Princess' friends got moved to another class to make some of the class sizes smaller but I reassured her that they would still see them on the playground. The Rugrat? He could make friends with a tree so he's got them all, even his teacher, within his freckled grasp!

Along with back to school, I got a wicked cold. I was home from work early all last week + took one off + spent it in bed. Awful. I've still got the stuffy nose + irritating cough that I wish would just go away!

Plans are under way for the Rugrat's birthday party...he asked for a party this year because last year was "just a family party" {his words} so I'm trying to plan something fun but low key.

On to this week's Friday phone dump:

It was my birthday last Sunday + we went to Applebee's for a meal. On your birthday, they give you a free dessert so I got the Brownie. Imagine a warm chocolate brownie with cold ice cream...it was delicious!
My very first commissioned hand lettering piece! {squee} I am so excited to play a small part in letting their friends + family know about their upcoming wedding! Not to mention what this does for my business + my ego! {double squee}
After our birthday lunch, we headed to Target for a look about. Found these fabulous black + white geometric flats for only $9. Yay!
This quote spoke to me. Sometimes I come across these amazing quotes that inspire me + make me smile. And the hand lettering? Gorgeous! I follow this fabulously talented lady on Instagram + you can find some of her products here...please support another handmade business, k?

I have had a pressing issue on my mind lately + am hoping to be able to post something this weekend. Do watch for it! I hope that you all had wonderful weeks sweet friends!

I participate in the link parties found HERE

Friday Phone Dump

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Fri, 23 Aug 2013 16:37:00 +0000

A dear friend knew that I was having a bad day + surprised me with this gift. Now, whenever I need a pick-me-up, I dig in + pull out some words of wisdom. Friends like her are true gems.
Last weekend we went to an event called Art in the Park in Port Dover. The rugrat was giddy over this anchor + had to get a pic with the princess.
See #2
The beach at Port Dover. A glorious summer day spent in the company of family.

I participate in the link parties found HERE

Hi y'all!

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Thu, 22 Aug 2013 19:42:00 +0000

Well hello! How the heck have you been? I've been thinking a lot about you lately...and by "you", I mean {le blog}. It has certainly been a long time since I posted anything but so much has happened. I've been thinking a lot lately about blogging + what I'd like to achieve with it. It certainly is hard to see those bloggers that have found a niche way to turn their blogs into something that thousands read + not compare yourself to them. But this blog, for me, is more of an outlet...an online journal...a legacy for my kids to read. I want the {littles} to be able to come back here + remember what our family vacations were like, what fashion + home decor was in style, snippets of life as their mommy.

So much has happened in the last couple of months! Due to the separation, we had to put the house up for sale, my beloved yellow brick house. I was dreading the day that the sign went on the lawn...after all, I didn't want to move out but because of what FS (FS = former spouse) did, I quickly came to the realization that this was something that was going to have to be done. To be honest, after living in the household with him for over a year, knowing that the marriage was over, was one of the most difficult things I've ever had to do so it was also a bit of a relief to know that I wouldn't have to live with him anymore.

But the house...*sigh*...I loved that house. The sign went on the lawn as soon as the separation agreement was signed + unbeknownst to us, it sold quickly...really quickly...like less than 12 hours quickly! I had already begun hunting for a new home for us so now that I knew what down payment I would have, I was ready to start putting offers on things I liked! Hooray! And I gave myself a good 60 days to find something...more than enough time, right?

WRONG!!! What had begun as lots on the market + in my price range quickly became little on the market + what I did like was over + above my original bottom line. {Ugh}. I found two or three houses that I liked enough to put offers in on. First one wasn't accepted...they went with the other buyer. Second one decided that she wasn't being offered the money that she wanted so she took it off the market. As time crept forward, I came to the realization that I was going to have to move back in with my parents. Yes, my 36 year old, newly separated with 2 kids self was moving back home. {Double ugh}. Don't get me wrong...if I didn't have that option, I'm not quite sure where the {littles} + I would have ended up so I'm so grateful but honestly...when you get married + have children + become an "adult", you don't really think that you'll have to move back in with your parents. I had put an offer on this house that I loved but we couldn't agree on the price so I walked away.

The day came to move out of the yellow brick house + it was such a busy day that I didn't have time to be sad. I had hoped to be able to spend a bit of time in the house after the movers had left, on my own, to just pout + cry + mourn the move but I never got the chance for various reasons. In some ways, I think this was a good thing but I also regret not being able to have that moment.

So we moved in with my parents + it was good. I had another two parents who love my children like no one else helping + bathing + tucking them in at night. It was nice. But I still needed my own space...the {littles} needed their own rooms again. So we went back to the house that I walked away from. It had been sitting empty so I knew a quick move in would be in the cards for us whereas continuing to search could have resulted in us not moving out of my parents house for another 2-3 months. At this point, there was another offer on the house so I decided that I would go back *higher* than he had asked previously. Thankfully, the day the offer was being presented, my real estate agent called to say that he had called the selling agent to let them know that the offer was coming in + he indicated that the other offer had fallen through.

WHAT?!? HOORAY! This was ah-maze-ing news! So I dropped the offer back down + crossed my fingers that they were going to be so pissed that the other offer fell through that they'd snap mine up in an instant! And you know what? They did! And the best part was that we were able to move in within a couple of weeks!

So we are now living in our {red brick house} + I am loving it! With my parents help, we quickly got things unpacked + it's really starting to take shape as {my} home! I've been able to put the things in that *I* like + decorate to *my* style. On one of the weekends that the {littles} were at FS's home, I took the opportunity to try + finish their rooms off as best as possible so when they came home, they would be surprised. I decorated as I wanted + minus a few finishing touches (+ painting the walls), they have rooms that compliment their style + age. I will certainly be showing them off here soon.

I have jumped back into the dating world...not head first but small leaps. I met a great guy + we've been on a few dates but our schedules don't mesh so we've decided to just be friends. It's nice to "know" someone in the area + finding someone so nice (+ normal...because, trust me, some of them...let's not go there) helped me get over my inital jitters of dating again. The only issue is that it is hard to find time to go out. Don't get me wrong...there is NOTHING that I would change about my situation...I adore having my children 95% of the time...but it makes it hard to plan dates because I, literally, only have 2 weekends per month free. I'm not in a hurry to get involved in a deep relationship so quickly again but it sure is nice to share some fun with a member of the opposite sex! My parents have already been such a blessing + help to me that I just can't ask them to babysit any further...maybe once school starts I'll feel more comfortable with nights out.

I'm feeling sad as through all of this, I lost my one word. It had so much meaning to me back when I was deciding what my one word would be but I've lost a little bit of it. I did focus on finding a new home...somewhere that the {littles} would love + call home. I did focus on their needs, one of my most important wants through all of this. But I've lost focus on the things that make {me} a better person...my health, my businesses, my outlets. Again, it's hard when I don't have a lot of extra time to put into these things but I have to {make} the time...I want to be healthier...I want to focus on growing my design business...I want to focus on this blog...I want to keep drawing + creating...I want the people that matter to me to {know} they matter to me. And I think I'm ready to accept that challenge again. I've found us a gorgeous home...I've decorated...I've listened to the {littles} + signed them up for the activities that they want to do (a grand mixture of Girl Guides, Scouts, jazz dance + football). It's time to re-focus {pun intended} + work on me.

Finally, this happened last week:

Out of both {littles}...the overly cautious, won't jump from the bottom stair, never does anything spontaneously was the one that broke a bone first. It was a fluke accident...tripped + put out her hands, as we all do + broke her wrist on both sides. Funny thing is, I didn't believe her (sorry sweetie...if you ever read this). Unfortunately, the princess is a bit of a drama queen when it comes to injuries (when she gets them...I don't even think she's skinned her knees!) So, I continued on to dinner with a friend while my parents took her to the hospital, all the while thinking they were just going to satisfy her. I nearly lost my mind when she called + told me she had a cast! So, we are taking it easy these last few days of summer + the princess has been a trooper...it's her right hand (her favoured one) so it makes doing anything difficult. I'm very proud of how she's handled everything + she'll come out of this stronger.

So that's the update for now friends. I hope to write more here as mentioned above but I've said that before + life has swallowed me.

Until next time.
xo

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Knee Deep in Foreign Waters...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 21:14:00 +0000

So much change is happening at the moment. Separation agreements, splitting of assets, selling my home, deciding where to live, buying a new home, organizing activities for the kids in this new city...wherever that may be. It's all so consuming. I'm trying to put the positive spin on it for the sake of the kids..."new" house, "new" rooms, "new" school, "new" friends. But I've acquired a {new} moniker that I haven't quite wrapped my head around yet...

--> --> --> --> --> SINGLE mom <-- <-- <-- <-- <--

I've been single before. That's not really new. But I haven't been single in {ages}. I was a long term relationship kinda gal so after the typical "teenage years boyfriends", I went out with only 3 guys from age 16 onwards. STBX (soon-to-be-ex) was (obviously) the last one + I started dating him when I was 19 years young. Add in the part about being a mom now (not to mention the whole 20-ish years later thing) + stepping back into the dating pool is like walking barefoot over hot coals...terrifying, enlightening + thrilling...all at the same time.

The perils of entering the dating world are multifold:

At this stage in life, most of my friends are married + are friends with friends that are married who are friends that are married...
For some odd reason, taking kids to a bar late at night is socially unacceptable.
Finding people to go to the bar with you when you do find an elusive babysitter can be as difficult as...well, refer to #1 {damn married people}
Those online dating sites are weird...case in point..."can I see your backstage?" was one message a friend received...{what does that even mean???}
Keeping up on current events so you don't seem like a dipwad when meeting someone is hard when you spend your days watching Caillou + Mickey Mouse Clubhouse
Those who you are interested in are already taken + those that show interest in you, you aren't attracted to
Those awkward moments when you don't know whether to "go for it" or if you're just feeling super lonely...ya...ugh.
The kids...yes, I am the {MOMfia}...I will go {ape shit} on you if you try to use the kids to make me like you more, cozy up to my kids + then disappear or do anything remotely asshole-ish around them
Have you seen Catfish? 'Nuff said.
You must go out all the time looking fabulous...yes, even to the grocery store...yes, to run to the drug store at midnight to get children's Tylenol...you never know who you are going to meet + just your luck that McSteamy will be at the drug store that night you decide to say "fuck it" + head out in your ripped yoga pants, baby throw-up stained shirt + curlers in your hair.

Don't get me wrong, I'm {sometimes} excited about the prospects of being wined + dined...I actually experienced, for the first time, someone holding open the car door for me {yay!} But I've also been to the same {circus} before + I am {not} interested in playing your carnival games...I'm older, I'm wiser + moms just don't put up with shit.

So, if any potential suitors are reading this...cut the crap...tell me you like me, take me for dinner, hold open doors + be polite...treat me like you'd want someone to treat your daughter...+ maybe we can navigate these rough waters together.

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Dreams

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 21:00:00 +0000

When I was thinking about an idea for a post, it came to me in the middle of the night. You see, friends, I am a vivid dreamer. I am, one of a few apparently, that has the terrific/horrible ability to remember my dreams. The one that I had that night was particularly vivid which hasn't happened to me in a while. I looked up the definition of dream on Wikipedia + found the following:

"Dreams are successions of images, ideas, emotions + sensations that occur involuntarily in the mind during certain stages of sleep."

This dream had everything in it...but the most dynamic portion of the dream was that I was crying throughout it + it was raining. So I looked up the meaning of both of the DreamMoods website:

"To dream that you are crying signifies a release of negative emotions. Your dream is a way to regain some emotional balance + to safely let out your fears + frustrations. In your daily lives, you tend to ignore, deny or repress your feelings. But in your dream state, your defense mechanisms are no longer on guard + thus allow for the release of those feelings."

"To see + hear rain falling symbolizes forgiveness + grace. Falling rain is also a metaphor for tears, crying + sadness. Alternatively, rain symbolizes fertility + renewal."

As I read the meanings, I nodded my head. That understanding moment when you just {get it}. All outstandingly fitting...all so true to life right now. It was still early hours when I awoke. I hadn't been asleep for more than an hour. But it resonated...it was {needed}. I think at that moment, things became more clear...that through the rain + the tears, I could see the sunshine...just slightly out of reach.

I fell back asleep quickly + it was a peaceful sleep. And I awoke the next morning feeling a bit more rejuvenated + ready to tackle...the early morning rush, the day at work + the wonderful new life that I am about to embrace.

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One Little Word {printable}

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 20:13:00 +0000

I discovered this phenomenon last year. I like it. I like that it isn't a nagging resolution always whispering in your ear but rather a change in the way you {live}. That each day could possibly become richer in meaning because of {one little word}. That I'm not sticking to a goal but rather a {change}...a change in perspective...a change in how I deal with others...a change in myself.

This has been a challenging year. A life changing year. A year that required a lot of perspective + reflection. I'm ready to move forward + I'm {excited} to move on + see what this {new} life has in store for me. Is it scary as all hell? Definitely. But I'm slowly beginning to believe that I am up for it...that I {can} do it. I'm determined to ensure that clarity is achieved this year in all aspects of my life. Since such a big chunk of my life + what I thought was important {to} my life became so unclear this past year that I'm intent on visiting {all} aspects of my life + focusing on what is important + what is not. So there it is...my {one little word} for 2013:

I will focus on the hunt for a new place to live + focus on making it a home for the {littles}. I will focus on making more time for friends + family in this busy life. I will focus on spending more time with the {littles}...playing, reading, listening. I will focus on sharing what I love to do + developing my business further. I will focus on {me}...making myself wholesome + complete after such a debasing year. Focus on living my life to its fullest potential. This year will be a year of change but I will not let it defeat me...in fact, I plan to come through this stronger...as a business owner, as a mother, as a friend but most of all, as me.

To celebrate + to help you on your journeys this year, I've created this free printable to share. Simply click on the link, print + enjoy:

Live life with focus!

Whatever your resolutions are this year, friends, I hope that you find ease in bringing them into your lives. Feel free to share yours in the comments section below.

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Christmas Musings

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Sun, 30 Dec 2012 04:05:00 +0000

Today has been a hard day friends so I thought "why not sit down with a cup of tea + a brownie + let the words escape onto the computer?" so that's exactly what I'm doing. First things first, how were your Christmases? My Christmas was good but it was also one that played heavily on my heart for many reasons.

This was my last Christmas in the Yellow Brick House + I love it so. This is the home that I brought my baby home to, in happier times, when the Rugrat was a fresh little. I have so many wonderful memories here + I love the cozy family room with its brick fireplace + the dreams that I had for this house. Still, I am trying to focus on the positive + am looking forward to moving to a new home + being able to decorate it the way that I want it to be. I'm dreaming of vintage treasures + a more monocromatic colour scheme. But it's still with a heavy heart that I know the Christmas tree won't ever have a spot in our gorgeous bay window at the front...I won't look out + see fresh fallen snow on our little bushes anymore.

This was our last Christmas as a "family". Traditional it wasn't, with everything that's going on, but we were all together. Christmases will now be dependant on what year it is...whether I have the {littles} on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. And that hurts my heart. Not because I want our family to be whole again...I'm way past that. But because I want life to stay as normal as possible for the {littles} + I know it will forever more be changed. And that hurts my heart.

I thought that I would be the bigger person + insisted to myself that I had to buy STBX (soon to be ex) a gift from the children. Because that was the right thing to do. Did we get him much? No. But we got him something to open on Christmas morning. In as much as this whole process has damaged me, I know that it has also made me stronger. But, damnit, did not another piece of my heart break when he didn't do the same for me. I would have liked to think that after 11 years of marriage + 16 years together that he would have been more thoughtful. His excuse was that I was hard to buy for + he promised me money {to which I've seen none but nevermind cause I don't want it thankyouverymuch}. Thank God for amazing parents who knew that STBX wouldn't come through + bought me two gifts to open from the {littles}.

So, this Christmas has been full of ups + downs, good times + bad times, full hearts + broken hearts. I'm trying to think of my "word" for 2013 + it's proving to be a difficult one. Something that I can really sink my teeth into because I need to be uplifted...I crave good in my heart. I've got a couple more days before I'll tell you what it is which is good because I need that time.

I hope that you all had good Christmases + that your hearts were full. Wishing you all nothing but the best for 2013.

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George's Cream Review

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 20:44:00 +0000

You know what I hate? In the winter when I'm digging on my favourite dark tights or leggings, looking all stylin betty...to look down + find "dandruff" on my legs. Double ugh. You know what I'm talking about...that dry flaky skin that actually horrendously makes its way through your tights to tell the World + everyone you work with that you are a scaly freak. Not so stylin betty. So let me introduce you to my new BFF:

Who is that guy? Well, friends, let me introduce you to George. George Doherty was asked by a dermatologist to make a moisturizing cream that was richer + more moisturizing than other commercially available creams. His challenge? Make it with less ingredients (less irritants), no lanolin or urea + fragrance free. Poor George spent countless nights in his kitchen creating just that.

"George's Cream + Moisturizing Lotion were created for lasting dry skin relief. Although there is no cure for many skin problems, George's provides relief from different types of skin symptomsand conditions. It works! That is why it is recommended by dermatologists, pharmacists and physicians. the therapeutic benefits of George's will provide immense relief for those suffering from many different conditions."

I was asked if I would like to receive a sampling of George's Cream to try at home + was then asked to write this review. I'll be honest...this is my first review + I was a bit skeptical. What if I hated it? And let's be real...it would take a miracle to turn this {daily scaly} into a {groovy smoothie}. I decided that what was best was to ensure that my readers were well informed whether I liked it or not...give the good or the bad. I have to tell you that I was pleasantly surprised by George's Cream! I received George's Light Special Moisturizing Cream that I used daily + used on the {littles} after their baths + George's Special Dry Skin Cream that I used on my daughter. Let me tell you the reasons that George is my new BFF:

George's Creams are made in Canada. Any time that I can support a business based out of my home country, I'm happy. It's important to sustain businesses based out of our own country to hold up our economy. And who isn't a sucker for a Canadian success story?

"George's products do not contain Urea, Lanolin or Parabens and have been specifically made to be hypoallergenic and fragrance free. Not tested on animals." As a mom, these points are important to me. The Princess is currently undergoing testing for allergies + we're having a hard time finding products that don't make her red, blotchy + itchy. One of the things that bothers her the most is that her feet become uncomfortably itchy after a bath {any ideas as to why from you, friends, would be helpful!} I'm happy to report that I put on George's Special Dry Skin Cream after she showered + there was LESS complaining about the itchy feet! Yay! It's like the Heavens parted!

I've eluded to my OCD tendencies before + applying cream is no different. Basically, I glob a good amount on my hands + then "dab" apply to each area + THEN rub it in. Know what I hate? When I apply it to my legs + put my leg down {to stand on} + it all runs down my leg...ugh. I'm pleased to say that George's Cream doesn't do this! They've saved the World! {Well, maybe not the World but definitely a pet peeve of mine!} George's Cream is thick but not gooey, sloppy thick. The "just right" consistency that doesn't run down your leg but doesn't leave you feeling like you're dripping in cream, know what I mean?

George's Cream is also very wallet friendly. Most creams that I've looked at that promise to be urea, lanolin, paraben free, hypoallergenic + fragrance free are super expensive! As a single mama of two, I'm pleased that George's Cream is affordable + safe enough to use on all 3 of us.

It works! Y'know those ~~not worth mentioning dry~~ skin flakes I talked about earlier? Using George's Light Special Moisturizing Cream daily, I found that they disappeared + my normally scally, dry, a man wouldn't touch me with a ten foot pole skin has been restored to a soft, healthy, smooth as a baby's bum texture.

Needless to say, I'm {very} pleased with the product + would continue to use George's Cream in our household.

George's Cream is pleased to now give YOU the chance to win some of their ~~save me from my scaly~~ skin creams! Enter below for your chance at winning a sampling of their creams to try. Contest closes on Monday December 10th, 2012. Please note that this contest is open to Canadian residents only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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What I Wore #4

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 19:46:00 +0000

Cardigan | T-Shirt {similar} | Jeans | Boots {similar} | Scarf {similar}

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A very personal post...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 14:48:00 +0000

This post is so very hard to write. It's so personal + daunting. I've prepared myself many times...sat down at my desk; hot tea in my mug, full of moxie + the words just wouldn't come out. I've resigned myself to the fact that it's happening but the pain of how if affects both the kids + I still lingers.

You see, my friends, my husband has asked for a separation.

The words came via text message on a lovely summer day in June. Yes, you did read that right...via text message. I was enjoying a day in Paris, Ontario with my kids + my parents when my world collapsed around me due to 5 words + the ability to hit the "send" button on an IPhone. My knees buckled, the tears started flowing + my Mom {love her!} whisked my kids into the ice cream shop to shield them from the visible anguish their mother was facing.

I won't lie + say that I didn't think things were bad between us at the time. We had just started seeing a marriage counselor to try + improve our marriage + from the first few sessions {we only had 2}, I thought we were both on the same page about trying to rectify things + had the rose coloured "but we still love each other + that will see us through" glasses on. We both had committed to repairing what was broken + the marriage counselor even seemed impressed at how "close" we were in our resolve to fix things. I've since, painfully, learned that those were all lies on the part of my other half + perhaps that's what hurts the most...that I was still in love with him but he wasn't with me...that I was too blind to see that.

We spent many weeks...my parents, his parents spend many weeks...trying to get to the heart of why he was doing this...why he was so intent on breaking up our family...what we could do to repair it. There were deep conversations, yelling, screaming, crying conversations. And there were lies...so many lies told...ones that we couldn't fathom were even true + ones that we did not know were true until long after the final decision had been made.

In the months that have followed, I've been astonished to learn that my life was so much of a lie. In no way do I want this to be a husband bashing, his fault, fuck him because he's an asshole post {even though I sometimes feel like screaming that from the rooftops + as many social media outlets as I can}. I've learned a lot about my husband + the man that I {thought} he was. There have been far too many lies, almost a double life being lead + constant "jabs" for attention + trying to get "one-up" on me. He has become a different person, one that I no longer admire...not the man that I knew, loved + married.

To make matters worse, he still lives at home. With us. In the basement. He wants to leave our family but hasn't left the home. It's hard, friends...really hard.

What remains is a mother intent on shielding her young, don't deserve any of this, kids from the pain of divorced parents. I am strong in my resolve that I won't let this affect them...that the pain + burden of this split is only on my shoulders. I am the adult. But truthfully, I know that I can't. And that, friends, is what {makes me cry at night} + is making me tear up at my desk right now. I love those two {littles} so god damn much + I know that this will not be easy on them. Fuck, it's not easy on me so I can't imagine how confused + unsure they are.

I made him tell them. The Princess was acting "off" + starting to ask questions relating to divorce so it was time. I made sure I was there so no blame was put on me but more specifically, that I could hug them + kiss them + tell them that things were going to be okay. That {we} were going to be okay. The Princess took it hard. The Rugrat felt the pain of his sister + reacted as so. Times since have been confusing + some things have been done that I find deceitful, hurtful. I do my best to stop these things before they happen, constantly shielding those {littles} from all that I can. I know they aren't feeing the true extent of the separation as yet because we're both still at home; we're still a normal looking family. I know the worst is yet to come.

And what about me, you ask? I'm okay. I've resigned myself to the fact that the man I married is not the same + therefore neither is our marriage. I've resigned myself to the fact that I had to get a full time job because I have to be able to provide for the {littles} + therefore have had to put my dreams on hold. I've resigned myself to that fact that I will have to move from our home that I love so very much. I've resigned myself to the fact that our family of 4 will now be a family of 3.

It still hurts. The pain is still fresh. Some days are easier that others. I try not to dwell on it + let it consume me because I have to be strong for the {littles}. I know the pain buries itself a little more each day. I know, with each passing day, that I am better off without him. But, it still hurts.

I have been so very lucky to have the most amazing friends through this terrible journey. They check on me, they love me, they care for me, they listen to me vent. And I've said many times how blessed I am to have parents so close + so supportive. Without them, I am certain I would be wearing a straight jacket right now. I know it will be okay. I know that we will survive. I know that we will be {happy}. But those things often feel so distant, like I can see them but just.can't.grasp.them.yet. I'm learning self worth when so much of it was knocked out of me that dreaded June day.

And so I sit. At my desk, hot tea in my mug, full of moxie + hesitate to hit "publish".

*sigh*

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A Day of Recollection

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Sat, 27 Oct 2012 02:16:00 +0000

Dear Austin,

Today is your 5th birthday + I find it hard to believe that it has been 5 years since you entered my life. I remember your labour + delivery well as it was one of the hardest things that I have ever gone through but it ended with the greatest reward. I spent too long at home enduring labour that by the time I got to the hospital, it was too late for me to have an epidural (all things you will know about in time) + I lost it. To make matters worse, I had a doctor with no bedside manner whatsoever. It was a scary hard birth but hearing you cry + finally meeting you made all the hardship of labour + delivery so worth it.

As you’ve grown, you’ve proven to be a true boy. Your mannerisms + playtime were always so different from your older sister through the years. Your love for cars + trains became evident early on + you haven’t swayed far from this today. You love to run + have an adventurous spirit. You have a good mind to know when to push the envelope + when to play it cool.

These past few weeks have been interesting watching you turn from a little boy to a boy. You have become more quizzical on a number of things asking me about Santa Claus + your Grandpa Stu where babies come from. I love that you’re starting to ask questions about the way the world works + always remember that gaining knowledge is never a bad thing.

I love watching you play with your toys. Your ability to play independently has always amazed me + I particularly love listening to the stories you tell. It makes me feel proud seeing you switch between an action figure fight + a gentle cuddle with a stuffie because I know it mimics your adventurous nature + your warm heart.

You are doing so well in school. I know that it’s tough being one of the smallest boys in your class but you take it with stride + continue to be one of the most popular in the class. The willingness to stand up for yourself + the other small boys in your class when you’ve been wronged is admiral. You are not afraid to tell the teacher (or me) about any issues that you have + you must always remember to do this. You are important + no one should make you feel otherwise. The work you bring home from school shows that you pay attention + that you are indeed learning + growing just as you should be. I love that you retain the information + your pure joy at showing me something that you’ve completed. The pride you take in your work is amazing to see + I’m hopeful that you’ll always feel this way.

Where do I start about the relationship with your sister? You know how I feel about the fighting + stuff so I won’t go on about that. I also know that, deep down; you have a love + admiration for her. You must know that she adores you + loves you so much. She truly is a wonderful big sister + you will grow to know that in time. She lets you get away with things that other sisters wouldn’t + I do catch glimpses of how much she means to you. Time will grow this bond deeper + always remember that you have each other. It is an important relationship to cultivate + grow.

I love watching you with your Grandpa Stu. This is another one of those relationships that should be cultivated. I see the admiration that you have for him + he is a great example of a wonderful man. You are lucky to have him so close + to be able to spend so much time with him. As I’ve mentioned before, your Papa (my grandpa) would have loved you so much. I truly believe that you are kindred spirits + that he watches over you from Heaven. I see many aspects of Papa in Grandpa Stu so with the both of them watching over you, I know you will be alright.

Finally, please never lose your sense of humour. I love so many things about you but this is definitely top of my list. You have an innate sense of knowing when something is funny + you are not afraid to laugh out loud. Whether it be a tickle fight or trying on Halloween masks at the store, your laugh brings me so much joy. You take life with laughter + never take anything too seriously + more people should adopt such an innocent, joyful way of life.

I hope the laughter continues year after year + I wish you so much today. You are loved. You are special. You are growing. Most of all, you are my little boy + I love you with my whole heart.

Happy Birthday son.

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Recent Works

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Sun, 21 Oct 2012 03:39:00 +0000

Hi friends!

I'm able to pop in for a minute to share a few recent designs from Twisted Thistle Designs. I can't stay long but I certainly hope to be back soon!

Defining Moments Collection:

I also had the pleasure of working with this gorgeous bride + groom:

Stunning, right? This is one of my favourite shots:

It shows their love for one another + the complete joy that everyone attending felt at seeing these two become husband + wife!

When I was asked to help create their seating chart, table numbers + menu cards, I was not only blown away but jumped at the chance! We went very classy...black + ivory + sparkles...to.die.for. Here are the amazing results:

It was so fun! I hope I get the opportunity to do more weddings in the future.

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Back to School Survival Kit {tutorial}

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 02:40:00 +0000

Hiya! I apologize for my absence around these parts lately. So much has been going on here that I will be sharing with you lovelies soon, promise. My hesitation is that it is a hard post to write + truth be told, I've sat down many times to write it but just couldn't get the words out. I'll get there...soon.

In the meantime, I wanted to share with you the Back to School Survival Kits that we made for the teachers for the first day of school. My inspiration came from Bee In Our Bonnet, a fabulous blog. We got all of our supplies from Dollarama so they were easy on the wallet too! We simply filled the "holes" with things like paperclips, pushpins, Post It notes, Starburst + then created a label on the cardstock. Added some Washi Tape, cute ribbon + twine + called it a success!

You may have missed out on "back to school" but what a great gift for Halloween or dare I say, Christmas!

The teachers loved them + the {littles} were so proud to make something so special for their new teachers! Beats the age old apple!

Nifty + Thrifty:

Plastic container - Dollarama - $1
Office supplies - Dollarama - approx. $7
Cardstock - already owned
Ribbon + Twine - already owned
TOTAL - $8 (each)

P.S. We included {this} printable from Thirty Handmade Days + were pleased to get the info back from all three teachers! Makes gift giving even easier! Thanks Mique!

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Gift for the Greatest Grandpa?

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 15:12:00 +0000

Happy August friends! How has the summer been treating you? We've been having lazy days around here...playing with neighbours, splashing at the local pool, spending time with grandparents. Nothing rushed, nothing stressful...just peaceful + lazy...a perfect summer. We are planning a small trip to the USA for back to school shopping at the end of August which should be fun as the littles always love staying in a hotel!

We recently celebrated the birthday of my Dad. Now, I'll be honest, this is a tough one every year. What do you get this guy? He's retired, doesn't have any 'real' hobbies + you can't fall back on jewellry like I can for Mum. Then it struck me! Our local WalMart has a British section & they import all the goodies that he grew up with...Walkers Crisps, Tunnocks Snowballs & Caramel Logs, Walkers English Toffees + many more things that were childhood favourites. And it seemed so fitting seeing as the Olympics were being played in London (even though he's from Scotland). So, I grabbed a red bin & made a tag on the computer using the Union Jack as a background + created this:

The tag says Tastes of "home" treat basket + he LOVED it! Fist pump! Score one for most awesomest daughter in the world!

So, if you're ever stuck for a gift + you know the person has some heritage in a different country, why not head to your local international aisle + put together a thoughtful little gift basket?

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Kids Craft - Summer Science Fun {tutorial}

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 19:46:00 +0000

Do you ever have those weeks where it seems like your a posting maniac? Well, that seems to be this week for me...I don't think I've posted this much before but it's been a good distraction for me. As mentioned below, we have different activities for the days that we're home this summer...laid back, not kept to a perfect schedule...just fun activities that I think of loosely based on the guide below.

Lucky for me, this summer science fun came on a great day! Our neighbour was away for the day so the littles had no one to play with + they loved this activity!

And it was simple, friends! Holla! I bought the pans/turkey baster/baking powder/white bowls at Dollarama. I had the food colouring + vinegar so this fun activity cost me $4...uh, yes please! Add to that, a bit of a lesson on science + it was a perfect plan!

{the littles mesmerized!}

{I could just *die* they are so cute, my littles}

Want to try it with your littles? Here's the deets:

Ingredients Needed:

square flat bottomed pan
baking powder
vinegar
food colouring (optional - I found it bubbled + rose more as plain vinegar)
little bowls
eye dropper/turkey baster

Directions:

put the baking powder in the bottom of the pan as level as possible
add vinegar to each bowl + add a few drops of food colouring for fun
have the kids suck up the vinegar in the eye dropper/turkey baster + pour into the baking powder + watch the magic happen

Come back + share your pictures if you try this, won't you?

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Rugrats + Royalty

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