White Pumpkin

Baby Eczema Cure ... What Worked For Us

2014-02-23T17:49:00.001-05:00

It's been a very dry winter. So dry, my baby's skin had paid dearly. Her skin was dry, bumpy, and blotchy. I tried all sorts of lotions and creams before finding the cure from our pediatrician. Eucerin and Aquaphor helped for a time ... and then it got really bad.

Here's what we did that finally did the trick:

Applied Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser from the neck down for 3 minutes prior to bath time

Added about 1 ounce Robathol Bath Oil to bath water and let baby soak in water for about 3 minutes

Pat dry and applied Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream liberally and all over

Our doctor warned us Robathol Bath Oil was easiest found online and, of course, Amazon has it. We picked up the Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream and Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser from CVS and had this first -- I used the cream before the bath oil arrived. Her skin began to clear up! We may be able to forego the Robathol Bath Oil ... I'm gonna stick with what the doctor recommended for now.

Make Baby Applesauce in a Baby Food Steamer/Processor

2014-02-11T09:40:00.004-05:00

Making baby food isn't as hard as you think! A few simple steps using a Baby Food Maker is all it takes!

This may be TMI, but my baby was very regular ... until we introduced cereal. One ounce of breast milk and a tablespoon or so of oatmeal cereal for supper changed all that. It scared me. Is she constipated? Is this normal? She's had cereal for a while now, so ... it's time for something new. I had all intentions of introducing veggies next, but applesauce seems like a good thing to help "move things along". So, without further adieu, here's how I made applesauce!

First, you'll need some supplies/ingredients.

Baby Food Maker

125 ml water

3 small apples or 2 medium apples

ice cube tray

Peel, core, and cut up the apples into 1/2" pieces.
Place apples into Baby Food Maker food compartment.
Pour 125 ml water into the water compartment of the Baby Food Maker.
Set the Baby Food Maker to steam (takes about 20 minutes).
Once the apples have been steamed, puree the apples.

Viola! Homemade baby applesauce. I served my daughter about 1 ounce and froze the rest in an ice cube tray. The next day, I removed the applesauce cubes and put them in a labelled freezer bag for later. Remember, once you thaw any baby food, do not refreeze.

Baby Wearing - Tale of Two Carriers: Moby Wrap and Ergobaby

2014-01-09T13:53:00.000-05:00

Baby Wearing - Tale of Two Carriers: Moby Wrap and Ergobaby

It was once easy for me to carry my baby ... when my first child was born, I was only 19 and very full of energy. Even with my second child 9 years later, I still had the ability to carry him around like it was nothing. Now, 10 years later, my back simply can't handle more than 5 minutes. To boot, my third child, a baby girl, loves for us to walk around while carrying her ... just loves for Mommy or Daddy to walk around with her much to our aching backs' disagreement.

With age also comes wisdom and knowledge. I've learned baby wearing also helps sooth fussy babies with warmth and heartbeat - which, my little girl can be very fussy at times. Furthermore, since I am breastfeeding, baby wearing has been known to help maintain my milk supply. I can also see how the closeness of the baby to me helps in development and interacting with others.

With this, I've chosen to baby wear and have found two carriers which help tremendously. My baby wearing experience is only a few weeks old and so far has been completely enjoyable.

Moby Wrap Official Website

Moby Wrap UV - Almond Blossom

The Moby Wrap is a 15 foot cloth wrapped around your body in such a manner that you can safely tuck your child inside the wraps in the front (as shown), on your hip, or on your back. Of course, written and picture instructions are included with the wrap and on their website; however, many find the video easiest to learn how to use the wrap (also on the website link above).

I only use the Moby Wrap at home. It's long and I can foresee it being near impossible to put on without it dragging all over a dirty floor at the grocery store or elsewhere. Plus, skin-to-skin baby wearing is ideal in this wrap. It's so soft, too. I purchased this from diapers.com for $48.49 which is a small sale price at the time of this post as it normally retails for $55.95.

Ergobaby Official Website

Ergobaby Carrier - Night Sky

The Ergobaby carrier is sturdy, well-designed, and extremely comfortable. Once the waist strap is adjusted, only a few steps are needed to safely have your baby in tow. Those with long hair beware of the shoulder harness buckle ... it's in the perfect place to grab some of your hair.

I've used this carrier inside and out. It's perfect anywhere and so easy to wear.

Watch out for counterfeits! I purchased mine from an authorized retailer, diapers.com for $120.00. They really never go on sale and any retailer coupon I've seen excludes Ergobaby from the discount.

If I had to choose between the two, I wouldn't. They both are extraordinary carriers and worth every penny spent on them.

13+1 Must-Have Breastfeeding Products (December 2013)

2013-12-29T16:32:00.001-05:00

My list of top 13 14 items which I believe make breastfeeding easier (in no particular order)

Breast Pump - Medela Pump In Style® Advanced

Medela Pump In Style Advanced

At first, I was using my First Years Single Breast Pump from 2003 ... until the motor went. As I shopped around for a replacement, I learned that under the Affordable Care Act, insurance companies are covering breast pumps nowadays! Yay! All I had to do was contact a medical supply company (for the breast pump iteself and the completed forms for processing) and my OB/GYN (for a script and verification I had a baby). Through this process I now am a proud owner of a Medela Pump In Style® Advanced and I love it!

Lanolin Cream - Lansinoh® HPA® Lanolin

Lansinoh HPA Lanolin

Not to be confused with hand lotion ... yes, my sister used is as such when she visited us in the hospital a day after the baby was born ... although, I'm sure it works wonders for dry, chapped hands, too. Everywhere I read said nursing *should* be pain-free. Well, it's not - at least not for me. Never was. Not the first baby and not the second baby I nursed. Discovering lanolin for my ouchy boobs was God-sent. Combine with the shells below to eliminate stained clothes while experiencing the miraculous healing power covered up.

Breast Shells - Medela SoftShells (for nipple soreness and flat or inverted nipples), Medela TheraShells (for sore nipples, flat/inverted nipples and engorgement)

Medela SoftShells

Medela TheraShellsTM Breast Shells for Sore Nipples

I only own the SoftShells; however, I can see how engorged boobies would be better suited in the TheraShells. I stumbled upon these beauties while reading up on how to heal faster and what more I could do aside from using lanolin. They clean easy and come with two sets of sponges to absorb leaks.

Nipple Shield - Medela 24mm Contact Nipple Shield (for latch-on problems, sore nipples or fast let-down)

Medela 24mm Contact Nipple Shield

Although I didn't have much use for a nipple shield, it's known to help primarily with latching issues. During my baby's one month visit, the nurse highly recommended using one in the event we would encounter such problems. Given how initially sore I was, we assumed we were having latching issues. In hindsight, I may have just needed to "toughen up".

Hands Free Pumping Bra - Simple Wishes Hands Free Breast Pump Bustier

Simple Wishes Hands Free Breast Pump Bustier

With a single breast pump, I had absolutely no need for this ... then the double pump came along. How was I going to surf the 'net while pumping? Enter the double breast pump bustier. Spectacular product and well made. It was a toss up between a Medela bra or this one. I'm a sucker for pink ... and the reviews solidified my choice. Furthermore, the bra comes with a piece to lengthen the width - bonus!

Bottles - Medela Calma Breastmilk Feeding Set with 5 oz Bottle, Medela Calma Breastmilk Feeding Set 8 Oz, Philips AVENT 4 Ounce BPA Free Natural Polypropylene Bottles 3 Pk Pink, Philips AVENT 9 Ounce BPA Free Natural Polypropylene Bottles 3 Pk Pink Flowers, Lansinoh mOmma Feeding Bottle 5 ounce 2 count

Medela Calma Breastmilk Feeding Set with 5 oz Bottle

Medela Calma Breastmilk Feeding Set 8 Oz

Philips AVENT 4 Ounce BPA Free Natural Polypropylene Bottles 3 Pk Pink

Philips AVENT 9 Ounce BPA Free Natural Polypropylene Bottles 3 Pk Pink Flowers

Lansinoh mOmma Feeding Bottle 5 ounce 2 count

Okay, so we have no idea which bottle our baby was going to take to ... we got *all* of these. Each baby is different and we still haven't gotten bottle feeding down. More on this subject to come :)

Milk Storage - Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags, The First Years Milk Storage Organizer

Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags

The First Years Milk Storage Organizer

This is where the list went from 13 to 14 ... duh, I forgot the breast milk storage bags. The storage bags are super and I have had no problems with them leaking. My freezer was a mess and before I knew better, I was freezing breast milk in the storage bags standing up. Now, the First Years Milk Storage Container and the Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags aren't exactly compatible if you freeze the bags *first* and then place them in the container. The trick is to freeze them in the container and let the contraption do its job :)

Cold/Hot Breast Therapy - Lansinoh® TheraPearl® 3-in-1 Breast Therapy

Lansinoh® TheraPearl® 3-in-1 Breast Therapy

Feel good solution for engorgement, mastitis, breastfeeding in general. I purchased two sets - one for the freezer and one for the microwave.

Nursing Pads - Lansinoh ® Nursing Pads Disposable, DIY Reusable Breast Pads

Lansinoh ® Nursing Pads Disposable

DIY Reusable Breast Pads

For leaks. Nuff said.

Nursing Bra - Thyme Maternity Soft Cup Lace Nursing Bra

Thyme Maternity Soft Cup Lace Nursing Bra

I needed a cup size larger at first ... it's almost time for the next size up. Thyme bras do the job and are the least expensive outta the bunch from what I've found - especially when they are on sale at Toys R Us/Babies R Us.

Nursing Privacy Cover - Eddie Bauer Nursing Privacy Cover

Eddie Bauer Nursing Privacy Cover

I have this just in case I feel uncomfortable nursing in public. Public in my case also includes in front of family members which shall remain unnamed. Some places do have nursing rooms; however, I have seen first-hand how they have been abused and used disgustingly for other reasons (such as changing a dirty diaper instead of waiting a whole 2 minutes for the changing table).

Nursing Pillow - Boppy Bare Naked Pillow with Slipcover - Pink Owl, Boppy Slipcovered Pillow - Backyard Bloom

Boppy Bare Naked Pillow with Slipcover - Pink Owl

Boppy Slipcovered Pillow - Backyard Bloom

Must, must, must have. Major help when it comes to positioning the baby for nursing - especially when they are newborn tiny. A Boppy can also be used for propping a baby and tummy time.

And of course, a baby!

DIY :: Breast Pads

2013-08-31T15:54:00.002-04:00

finished product this tutorial

made 4 pair so far ... one pair using a serger with four layers of flannel and three pair using double overlock on a sewing machine with three layers of flannel and one layer of anti-pill fleece

DIY :: Pack 'n Play Sheet Pattern/Tutorial

2013-08-27T16:50:00.000-04:00

Here's how I made a couple sheets for a Graco Pack 'n Play ...

Materials (for one sheet)

34" x 44" fabric
60" piece of 1/4" elastic

Instructions

1. Fold the fabric lengthwise and width-wise.

2. Measure and cut a 3-1/2" square from the corner (when unfolded, each corner will have a square cut out).

3. Pin and sew each corner right sides together. I used a 4-thread overlock with

integrated safety seam on my serger; however, a straight stitch on a sewing machine will do.

4. Serge or zig zag stitch around the edges to prevent fraying when laundering.

5. Iron over 3/4".

6. Mark a stopping and starting point about 1" apart. I used flower head pins.

7. On a sewing machine, straight stitch about 1/4" from edge (for me, this was along the serged stitch) from the start marker to the stop marker leaving about a 1" gap to insert the elastic.

8. "Thread" the elastic through the opening. I've seen some use safety pins, bodkin needles, etc. I haven't had much luck with safety pins and do not own a bodkin needle ... so I improvised and used a bobby pin. To use a bobby pin, simply cut a teeny, tiny slit in the elastic about an inch back to thread the bobby pin, like so.

9. Now that the elastic has been threaded, zig zag stitch the two ends together.

10. Straight stitch over the gap to enclose the elastic.

Viola! Done!

Inspired by TUTORIAL: Crib and Toddler Bed SHEETS

Rug Hooking ... From Paper to Linen

2013-08-14T14:59:00.000-04:00

Draw and Transfer a Pattern onto Foundation Cloth for Rug Hooking

First, draw a pattern on a piece of paper. I start with pencil (better to erase mistakes) and retrace in a dark colored Sharpie. For larger patterns, I use wrapping paper ... the kind that has a one inch grid on the back makes for measuring much easier if you know ahead of time how large your canvas is.

Second, I retrace the pattern with pencil onto Red Dot Tracing Material. To do this, simply place the tracing material on top of the pattern. I corner tape both the pattern and tracing material to hold them steady while I trace.

Third, I replace the pattern with a piece of Foundation Cloth ... my favorite is Dorr Linen. Then, with a dark colored Sharpie, again retrace the pattern. The Sharpie will bleed through the Tracing Material and onto the Foundation Cloth. Do make sure the Sharpie is good and new - otherwise, the pattern will transfer too light or not at all.

Lastly, I do one more trace-over with the Sharpie to make sure I will have no issues seeing the lines on my Puritan Frame (purchased at Homespun Woolens).

I recently dyed a couple yards of wool just for this project :) Should definitely keep me busy 'til the baby's born :)

Pattern inspired by an area rug first found on Pinterest and later tracked down here.

DIY :: Toilet Paper Roll Package / Envelope / Container

2013-08-13T15:46:00.002-04:00

Toilet Paper Roll Package / Envelope / Container

Whatcha Need:

Toilet Paper Roll

7" x 6-1/2" Fabric Piece

Foam / Sponge Brush

Mod Podge

Stapler & Staples (not shown)

Step 1: Using the foam brush, apply Mod Podge liberally to a section of the toilet paper roll and press fabric onto freshly applied section. Then, continue to "paint" the Mod Podge on the fabric as you roll it to where the fabric was first applied. You will have about 1" fabric extending from either end of the toilet paper roll ... don't worry, we'll get to that later. Set dry for 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Fold under the fabric on either end. You may choose to Mod Podge the folded in fabric; however, it's not necessary (don't forget to dry before continuing). Pinch one end of the roll together and staple. You may have to bend the staple prongs if your stapler doesn't do it for you. Now is the time to place things inside!! After things are all inside that you want, pinch the other end and staple *in the opposite direction* (see pictures).

I'm using this one for a Bath & Body Works PocketBac to be sent in the mail ... so, I applied address labels.

My Son's Divorce

2013-07-30T10:51:00.001-04:00

My son, Dylan, has decided to cut off all ties with me and anyone who is close to me ... my husband (his step-father), his brother, my parents (his grandparents), etc. This estrangement occurred immediately after he was no longer welcome in our home ... why is beyond this post.

After his departure, he spent about two weeks with friends and paternal family. Afterwards, he moved to an apartment quite a bit away. It has been about two months.

My behavior ever since is not one of remorse or sadness, but of anger, resentment and vengefulness which I realize just today is, simply put, wrong and has probably led to further alienation.

I've spent most of the morning reading, reading, reading on the subject of adult children "divorcing" their parents. Many of them, the first question is whether I want a relationship? Quite frankly, I do not at this point and my behavior was only my need for him to know it is wrong to reject me ... which is not under my control.

So, what do I do now? I guess I have to figure out how to grieve for the loss of my son in my life. I will survive. It hurts and I have to move on.

Caterpillar with White Things on its Back ... aka Tomato Hornworm with Braconid Wasps

2013-07-29T08:55:00.000-04:00

First thought: aw ... it's gonna be a pretty butterfly ... then I Google'd it.
Second thought: Get it outta the garden!! Wasps ... um, no ... then I read more.
Third thought: Keep it in the garden!

Lesson learned this is an unfortunate tomato hornworm with parasitic braconid wasp larva. Tomato hornworms by themselves eat, eat, eat and can destroy gardens in no time. But ... nature came to the rescue and the braconid wasp laid its eggs inside to mature.

Sadly (for the hornworm), this process paralyzes the hornworm while providing nutrients for the tiny, harmless wasps to mature to then start the cycle on another hornworm. Hence, the hornworm destroys plants in my garden no more! And, the wasps pose no harm to us humans aside from the first scare of hearing the word "wasp".

Best natural way to rid them from my garden!

Beady Eye Owl

2013-06-08T20:16:00.000-04:00

mulitiple of 12 sts, 8 rows, worked in the round

abbreviations

k: knit; p: purl; ktbl: knit through the back loop

pb: place bead - crochet hook bead and place on st, ktbl

c4f: cable 4 front - place 2 sts on cable ndl and hold to front, k2 sts from working ndl, k2 from cable ndl

c4b: cable 4 back - place 2 sts on cable ndl and hold to back, k2 sts from working ndl, k2 from cable ndl

feet first

r1: k
r2: *p4, k4, p4; rpt from * to end
r3: *p2, c4b, c4f, p2; rpt from * to end
r4-r10: *p2, k8, p2; rpt from * to end
r11: same as r3
r12-r16 except r14 (see next): same as r1
r14: *p2, k2, pb, k2, pb, p2; rpt from * to end
r17: same as r3
r18: *p2, k8, p2; rpt from * to end

head first

r1: *p2, k8, p2; rpt from * to end
r2: *p2, c4f, c4b, p2; rpt from * to end
r3-r7 except r5 (see next): same as r1
r5: *p2, k2, pb, k2, pb, p2; rpt from * to end
r8: same as r2
r9-r15: same as r1
r16: same as r2
r17: *p4, k4, p4; rpt from * to end
r18: k

note: for a multiple of 10, simply decrease the p's between the owls in half
for just the owls, simply remove p's between the owls

Dot Stitch

2013-06-08T20:05:00.000-04:00

mulitiple of 4 sts, 8 rows, worked in the round

r1: *p1, k3; rpt from * to end
r2-r4: k
r5: k2, *p1, k3; rpt from * to last 2 sts, p1, k2 --or-- *k2, p1, k1; rpt from * to end

whoville

2012-05-31T17:44:00.000-04:00

whoville

what ya need
us 3 dpn, small crochet hook
255-265 yds fingering wt yarn
stitch holder
40 small beads

abbreviations
co :: cast on
bo :: bind off
k :: knit
p :: purl
pb :: place bead
hook a bead, pull k st thru bead, place k st back on dpn, k thru the back loop
c2f :: cable 2 front
place 1 st on st holder and hold to front, k1 from needle, k1 from st holder
c4f :: cable 4 front
place 2 sts on st holder and hold to front, k2 from needle, k2 from st holder
c4b :: cable 4 back
place 2 sts on st holder and hold to back, k2 from needle, k2 from st holder

what ya do
co 56 sts
13 rows :: 1x1 rib
owl pattern - 5x (button hole between 4th and 5th rpt)
r 1 :: *k8, p, k4, p*, rpt to end
r 2 :: *k8, p, c2f, p*, rpt to end
r 3 :: *k8, p, k4, p*, rpt to end
r 4 :: *c4f, c4b, p, c2f, p*, rpt to end
r 5 :: *k8, p, k4, p*, rpt to end
r 6 :: *k8, p, c2f, p*, rpt to end
r 7 :: *k2, pb, k2, pb, k2, p, k4, p*, rpt to end
r 8 :: *k8, p, c2f, p*, rpt to end
r 9 :: *k8, p, k4, p*, rpt to end
r 10 :: *c4f, c4b, p, c2f, p*, rpt to end
r 11-17 odds :: *k8, p, k4, p*, rpt to end
r 12-16 evens :: *k8, p, c2f, p*, rpt to end
r 18 :: *c4f, c4b, p, c2f, p*, rpt to end
r 19 :: *k8, p, k4, p*, rpt to end
r 20 :: *p9, c2f, p*, rpt to end
button hole
**on the 20th r of the 4th rpt, bo 8 sts, continue**
**on the 1st r of the 5th rpt, co 8 sts, continue**
5 rows 1x1 rib
bo 56

Facebook Profile Thoughts

2012-02-24T18:20:00.000-05:00

Am I the only one that thinks *anyone* having a Facebook profile picture of themselves pointing a double barrel towards anyone that views your profile is w-r-o-n-g?

Presumably a Pennsylvania State Trooper's Facebook Profile
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=508351919&sk=wall

Pointing a double barrel at the camera

KareDan Farming Initiative Experience

2012-02-07T14:44:00.000-05:00

So, I purchased a wonderful yarn from KareDan Farming Initiative when they were at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire this past Summer/Fall ... and I use it in my latest project Hogwarts Express ... and what happens??? Of course, I ran outta yarn. Totally my fault, I know.

I contacted KareDan Farming Initiative via FaceBook and they ask me send them a snippet ... which I do ... and hear nothing for a while.

What do I do? I contact them. I contacted them every so often - not pesty-like either. Each time, I got a different excuse with a tinge of annoyance until the final response which also included a ton of condescending undertones. Check it out ...

Really?!?!? All ya had to do was say "no". This place strung me along for months saying they could spin up more of this yarn and then got bitchy with me? Damn it.

Bad, bad, bad.

I guess I'll either go on a wild goose chase for compatible yarn to finish Hogwarts Express or make a new one with different yarn (making sure to have enough of it, too).

Mike's Hard Cranberry Lemonade ... Twist Off - I Think Not!

2011-07-10T22:13:00.001-04:00

mike's hard cranberry lemonade is tasty ... but i have one lil complaint. the verbiage "twist off" should be removed. they really aren't twist offs ... believe me.

twist off war wound from mike's hard lemonade

"twist off" bottle cap ... i think not

wine bottle mannequin

2011-06-28T20:11:00.000-04:00

i learned this evening that a wine bottle makes a stellar mannequin.

every time i finish a project, i ask a member of my family to model it so i can brag a lil on the internet. i get lucky sometimes, but more times than not, i get a mismatch - like evan modelling dylan's hat ... if you don't know me, then this means a 7 year old (now 8) modelling a 17 yr old item. it's way too big, but you get to see the finished product.

well, this problem is solved - for hats anyway. see, a wine bottle works well for modelling hats :)

how to make a pom pom

2011-06-28T20:07:00.000-04:00

materials: pom pom maker (or cut out cardboard which is a pain in the ass), scissors and yarn (wine optional, computer not needed at all)

wrap yarn around pom pom maker

once both sides have yarnage, close the pom pom maker and cut edges of pom pom. then, wrap a piece of the same yarn around the pom pom and knot in place and attach in the most inconspicuous way (darning needles help tremendously)

doneski ... booyah.

creating a new class in NetBeans

2011-06-25T00:34:00.001-04:00

Product Version: NtetBeans IDE Dev (Build nbms-and-javadoc-7160-on-20110507)

Java: 1.6.0_26; Java HotSpot(TM) 64-Bit Server VM 20.1-b02

System: Linux version 2.6.38-8-generic running on amd64; UTF-8; en_US (nb)

Userdir: /home/jamie/.netbeans/7.0

here's how to create a new java class in NetBeans ...

first, right click on the Java Source Package (name) and choose New > Java Class... (i could not get a screen shot while making selections - either the program or the os wouldn't allow it)

a new window will appear for you to name the new class as you wish

new java class window in netbeans

either hit [enter] or [Finish] button and the new class file is created and currently displayed

new class file is now the workspace

start programming the new class

new class file with comments

sometimes NetBeans adds things needed only locally and not elsewhere such as "package [name];" at the top of the file. i just leave myself a note to comment out in those cases. if there are oodles of files, you may want to create a makefile to include commenting out the top line using a script.

cioa

how to empty a trash container

2011-06-22T19:35:00.000-04:00

there may be a time when you have a trash can in your home which is completely full and needs to be emptied to collect future disposables. if you ever wondered how to empty a trash container, you've come to the right place!

full trash container

materials needed

full trash container (with or without lid)
replacement trash bag
lysol (optional)
couple minutes

step-by-step instructions

if applicable, remove the lid from the trash container to access the bag.
grab the top bag which is currently in the trash container and pull in an upward motion to separate the bag from the trash container. handles or drawstrings may be present which may help in grabbing the bag.
once the bag has been completely removed from the trash container, close the top of the bag. the trash bag used in this demonstration is closed using a drawstring.

closing the trash bag using drawstring

emptied trash container with replacement bags for quick access
(optional) spray trash container with lysol to kill any germs and to eliminate odor.

lysol
place the replacement trash bag into the empty trash container. to ensure the bag remains in place, pull the top part of the bag over the trash can.

replacement trash bag

trash bag placed in trash container
if applicable, wipe the lid clean and place on top of trash container.

empty trash container with lid

viola! you've successfully changed the trash container and it is ready to be filled once again! congratulations!

things were not done ... this aughtta get interesting

2011-06-22T17:58:00.000-04:00

dylan was asked to do a couple things (repeatedly) last evening and this morning before the rest of the family went on their merry way. well, guess what? yep, you guessed it, things were far from done when i got home from work. i was already in a terrible mood having taken route 22 home -- aside from waiting in traffic through the macungie detour.

anyhoo, on top of the few things dylan was asked to do prior to leaving the house today, he also left a lovely pile of change on the dining room table (finders, keepers). hey, some of it's even wrapped already ... b-o-n-u-s!

just to be completely thorough, the dishes are done is when the sink and dishwasher is dish-free, the sink is scoured and can be walked by without vomiting. unlike the following:

also, the floors in the house should not have dog hair tumbleweeds. we have a broom, vacuum cleaner and roomba to aid in the elimination of zoe's hair ... pick your poison.

dylan's sock ... what a stellar place for this! right in the middle of the hallway floor. looks great there!

i am amazed how much wash this family goes through. what you are about to witness is mt. washmore located in scenic hallway de binkleyville - truly a miracle. imagine how much taller mt. washmore would become adding the piles of wash found in bedrooms throughout the home! mind blowing, i know. yeppers, dyl was supposed to have relocated mt. washmore to basementtown de binkleyville, but apparently, the humongous, overflowing pile of laundry was somehow overlooked today and postponed to some other time that fits into dylan's busy schedule of playing computer games on the internet and wrapping coins.

it has come to our attention that the residents of binkleyville are in dire need of proper linen cupboard organization. lessons on proper towel folding (including bath towels, wash clothes and hand towels) and proper organization will be held in a location to be later determined in binkleyville in the evening of june 23, 2011. stay tuned for specific time and exact location! for those not able to attend, a full tutorial will be posted.

a common feature of dylan's room is how padded the carpets are in some areas. the strategic placement of his dirty clothes adds just the right amount of teenagerness to the decor. i think we have an interior decorator here!

i've saved the best for last - the trash. nothing says "welcome home" like walking into the kitchen through the garage door like a big whiff of delicious garbage stuffed into the trash can! hmmm, hmmm, good. hey, at least the dog didn't get at it today and leave the entire contents of the trash can spread throughout the living room and kitchen.

another view of our collection of disposables is found outside awaiting the day it gets to travel off in the sunset with clifford hill. doesn't the trash compliment the weeping cherry tree?

we thought the garbage looked so great on the right side of the garage that we added more on the left. eventually, the trash will no longer exist in either location, so be sure to catch a view while you can! don't worry, after the trash is gone, a beautiful area where the grass has been choked out for all of us to enjoy for weeks to come will take it's place!

dyl called a lil after i got home from work. dunno if he was responding to my text, facebook post of previous blog or some other txt/chat/email/phone call/facebook post asking that he do so. so lemme get this straight ... he put the towels away and fed the dog and that was all that was asked of him before he left. hmmmm ... i beg to differ. sorry, all i could do was hang up.

message for dylan

2011-06-22T13:53:00.000-04:00

i certainly hope you fed the dog
if you plan on having me pick you up from matt's or nina's later today, certain things must be done.

in the house: 1. dishes - dishwasher and sink(s) must be completely empty and clean. this can be accomplished by taking all of the dishes from the sink(s) and loading them in the dishwasher. then, start the load and after it is complete, unload the dishes making sure each dish is clean and placed in its proper area. after the sink(s) are dish-free, simply take ajax or soft scrub and a sponge and wipe the sink(s) and drain(s) with the scratchy part of the sponge and rinse. 2. wash/towels - there is a wash basket full of towels intentionally placed next to the computer you use to game with in the dining room so that you are "reminded" to put them away. bath towels: fold each towel in half the short way and then in half the long way and roll the towel up. there should be an example in the linen cupboard in the hallway if you are unsure how to properly fold the bath towels. wash clothes: fold in half twice and neatly stack on a pile - like pancakes. hand towels: same as wash clothes. bed sheets: do the best you can - we understand they are a bit tricky to fold by yourself. once the towels have been folded, place each towel in its proper location in the linen cupboard. 3. more wash - take *all* of the dirty wash down to the washer and dryer. you should have an empty wash basket after you take care of the towels. empty the dirty wash in the basement with all of the other wash. if the dryer has laundry in it, remove the laundry from the dryer and place it in the once again empty wash basket to bring upstairs. if there is no laundry in the dryer, just leave the empty basket for later. if there is laundry in the washer, this is important, *smell* the wet wash. if it's kinda rank from being ignored in the washer, just add another capful of laundry detergent and wash it again. the water temp should be cold and the load capacity should be max. if there is laundry in the washer and it smells wonderful, put it in the dryer. make sure the lint trap has been cleaned out of the dryer and a dryer sheet is included in each load of laundry you dry. we have a smart dryer, so all you need do to start the dryer after the laundry and dryer sheet have been added to the dryer with a clean lint trap on the "cotton" setting. if there is no laundry in the dryer, just keep the basket downstairs and lemme know later when i get home ... i'll start a new load. 4. dog hair tumbleweeds - first sweep the kitchen and dining room area with a broom. the broom is located outside the garage door on the left side of the door. then, either run the roomba or vacuum. our vacuum cleaner sucks and is on its last leg and the roomba requires periodic de-hairing since our dog sheds so much. also, the roomba may run outta oomph to do the living room, dining room and kitchen. if this happens, use the crappy vacuum cleaner to get the spots it missed. 5. dog - sometime throughout the day, preferrably afternoonish, leave the dog out to pee and poop. she should have food and water in her dishes before you go anywhere.

additional chores will be added as neccessary. remember, you are to also have the yard mowed no later than thursday. when mowing the lawn, make sure to get as close as possible to bushes, trees, shrubs, swing sets, etc.

i nor dad will pick you and any other friends, girlfriends, etc. from anywhere today if these things are not completed and to our satisfaction. chintzy work will not be accepted and is considered incomplete; hence, no ride will be given.

you are to respond to this message to let me know you've rec'd it. if after 30 mins i receive no response, i will assume you did not get the message and post the chore information on your facebook page. if still there is no response, i will call you at home and go from there.

oh, and one more thing i just remembered ... empty the trash from the trash container in the kitchen and bring the garbage bag to the front of the yard where the mailbox is for garabage pick-up tomorrow morning. if the trash bin is stinky, spray lysol in the can before putting in a new trash bag liner. all of the trash by the weeping cherry tree and the coca-cola ice box must be placed by the mailbox for garbage pick-up tomorrow morning -- except the mattress, air conditioner, metal frame, spare subaru tire and any other much-too-large-for-trash-pick-up items.

still waiting for your reply ...

monsters, zombies, children's books, oh my

2011-06-16T02:05:00.000-04:00

in reading modg, i found out about much more pungent children's books simply by feeding google "shut the f up and go to bed" - which auto-completed after the first three words (including 'f' as a word ... i began typing fuck, but google decided 'f' would suffice) to the entire title of the book. now, this only happens on my phone ... trying the identical thing on my laptop in chrome does far from the same.

doosy ... but i wish i wrote this one, too. "monsters eat whiny children". touche!

i later found myself on amazon.com staring at yet another new app i had to install on my phone and the main prize for actually finding this gem on the 'net. but alas! amazon audio is simply not for me. my hubby did a one upper on me tonight and not only found the same audio ... found you tube stuff, too. i <3 you, samuel l. jackson!

omg, there is a facebook page for this shit. modg, you created ripples throughout the internet world :)

leg warmers, thunderstorms, my dog and dual survivor

2011-06-11T20:40:00.000-04:00

almost done with the knitted leg warmers i've been working on - well one of them.

i <3 thunderstorms ... but only if they are loud, have lots of lightening and preferably both; however, the one and only thing i heard was a small thunder. the "storm" musta hit north or south of us.

i walked zoe before the storm and took some video of her ... awesome dog!

this guy on dual survivor should seriously consider wearing shoes. really. shoes are kewl. there's a reason why someone invented them many years ago (no one knows for sure). in any event, they work, they protect your feet and there's no medal or reward for not wearing them and hoofing through think jungle with all kinds of crap to get stuck in your foot or feet. these guys have knives but one doesn't have shoes? wtf? i'd trade shoes for a knife anyday in the freaking jungle.

sqwawk

2011-05-29T23:35:00.000-04:00

owls are kewl
when they woo
no such much
when they skreech

please stop

White Pumpkin

Baby Eczema Cure ... What Worked For Us

Make Baby Applesauce in a Baby Food Steamer/Processor

Baby Wearing - Tale of Two Carriers: Moby Wrap and Ergobaby

Baby Wearing - Tale of Two Carriers: Moby Wrap and Ergobaby

Moby Wrap Official Website

Ergobaby Official Website

13+1 Must-Have Breastfeeding Products (December 2013)

My list of top 13 14 items which I believe make breastfeeding easier (in no particular order)

Breast Pump - Medela Pump In Style® Advanced

Lanolin Cream - Lansinoh® HPA® Lanolin

Breast Shells - Medela SoftShells (for nipple soreness and flat or inverted nipples), Medela TheraShells (for sore nipples, flat/inverted nipples and engorgement)

Nipple Shield - Medela 24mm Contact Nipple Shield (for latch-on problems, sore nipples or fast let-down)

Hands Free Pumping Bra - Simple Wishes Hands Free Breast Pump Bustier

Milk Storage - Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags, The First Years Milk Storage Organizer

Cold/Hot Breast Therapy - Lansinoh® TheraPearl® 3-in-1 Breast Therapy

Nursing Pads - Lansinoh® Nursing Pads Disposable, DIY Reusable Breast Pads

Nursing Bra - Thyme Maternity Soft Cup Lace Nursing Bra

Nursing Privacy Cover - Eddie Bauer Nursing Privacy Cover

Nursing Pillow - Boppy Bare Naked Pillow with Slipcover - Pink Owl, Boppy Slipcovered Pillow - Backyard Bloom

And of course, a baby!

DIY :: Breast Pads

DIY :: Pack 'n Play Sheet Pattern/Tutorial

Here's how I made a couple sheets for a Graco Pack 'n Play ...

Materials (for one sheet)

Instructions

Rug Hooking ... From Paper to Linen

Draw and Transfer a Pattern onto Foundation Cloth for Rug Hooking

DIY :: Toilet Paper Roll Package / Envelope / Container

Toilet Paper Roll Package / Envelope / Container

My Son's Divorce

Caterpillar with White Things on its Back ... aka Tomato Hornworm with Braconid Wasps

Beady Eye Owl

mulitiple of 12 sts, 8 rows, worked in the round

abbreviations

feet first

head first

Dot Stitch

mulitiple of 4 sts, 8 rows, worked in the round

whoville

Facebook Profile Thoughts

KareDan Farming Initiative Experience

Mike's Hard Cranberry Lemonade ... Twist Off - I Think Not!

wine bottle mannequin

how to make a pom pom

creating a new class in NetBeans

how to empty a trash container

things were not done ... this aughtta get interesting

message for dylan

monsters, zombies, children's books, oh my

leg warmers, thunderstorms, my dog and dual survivor

sqwawk

Nursing Pads - Lansinoh ® Nursing Pads Disposable, DIY Reusable Breast Pads