Embracing A Life Unexpected

Hiatus

2013-10-18T12:12:00.003-07:00

Hi there! It's me..... You know.........me. It's been a while but, come on.

Awkward pause.

You know, ME! Mama bear, in love with her cubs & Papa bear. Designer of itty bitty dresses, salt air addict, writer, lives for morning coffee, dreamer of coastal living. Ring any bells? Yeah, you got it. That's me!

Phew. You had me worried for a second.

I wanted you to know that I haven't forgotten about this blog. Far from it actually. I just need to prioritize and take a step back from this. Not sure for how long.

What will I be doing, you ask? Well, I will be sewing like mad, getting ready for craft fair / holiday season. I am sewing pinafores, peasant dresses, making necklaces for Mamas and little ones. (Or Aunties, Grandmas, Sisters.....I don't discriminate.) I am thinking of doing some inspirational quote plaques too. I will be giving my Etsy shop, My Sweet Marmalade more love.

After that, I plan to focus on some writing projects that have been burning a hole in head for a while now. You haven't read the last of my works. There are some exciting projects I want to work on next year!

I also have the little tribe that keeps me hoppin'. Boy, do they ever these days!

So basically, just sticking to the "plan" and following my bliss.

Thanks for reading and supporting me thus far.

Don't ever hesitated to email me at mysweetmarmalade@yahoo.com. Check out what I am pinning on Pinterest, or follow me on twitter @SewWriteOnMama. Oh, and don't forget good ole FaceBook.

I will miss this place, but it is time for me to go......................

"There was nowhere to go but everywhere, so just keep on rolling under the stars. " - Jack Keroac

xoxo

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,
Mama Nic

Don't Mess with Mama Bear!

2013-09-13T06:12:00.000-07:00

The love I feel for my kids is something fierce. With three kids, this fierceness has grown exponentially.

My tattoo was originally inspired by Susan Seddon Boulet's work of art called "Bear Women with Dream Child."

I loved the idea of a bear holding a human child and knew I had to adapt this image into something that was unique for me. The "don't mess with me, Mama Bear" lovingly carrying this human baby spoke to my heart. I love the illumination of that picture, but I knew this was only the seed of an idea that would slowly over a year of thought, grow into a personal expression......my tattoo.

There is a Greek goddess Artemis who is a huntress. Her name means bear. I wanted this reminder of power with me throughout my journey in life. I love the messages from the Wizard of Oz, (which is one of my fav all time movies!) which conveys that you have always had the power!

I realize that some of these pictures are not the greatest, but they were taken by Marmalade! She loves to be my assistant. One day I will have some professional pictures taken to give justice to this art.

Imagery of a bear has many important meanings for me. For one, the image of a bear helps to awaken our potential. The image of a bear is a reminder not to let your creative energies lie dormant.

This Mama Bear is searching for what feeds her soul and when found......will chow down!

Bears also symbolize family unity, safety and protection of children. The mythological feminine symbol also represents the circle of life, death, and rebirth. She also reminds us to go within when it is time. The Mama Bear guides and protects us on our journey. Some tribes, I have read believe that this symbol has the special power of healing.

Throughout my entire life I have always had reoccurring nightmares about bears. You may find this odd that I would finally chose to have a bear on my skin, but I believe in concurring your fears, embracing the experience, and using it as a lesson for self improvement. Bears have for some reason been sent to me as a message in my dreams. After all these years..........I finally understand why.

***If you are interested in reading more about the power of the bear click here. If you interested in the meaning of bears in your dreams, click here.

The moon in my tattoo represents my beloved husband. Just as the moon is always there, he is always there for our family and he shines for us, and guides us when we need him most......in the darkest of times. See the heart in the moon? Yup. That is him.

If you would like to follow my Mama Bear board on Pinterest, click here.

I hope the power of the bear is with you all today and everyday. Don't forget YOU have always had the power.

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,
Mama Nic (aka Mama Bear)

A Little Love and Inspriation!

2013-09-12T04:58:00.001-07:00

Just a quick post to start your day.

Three little golden nuggets to ponder. (you know I like things in threes!)

Be inspired.

Be bold.

Be love.

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,
Mama Nic

Fortysix Minutes

2013-09-11T05:51:00.000-07:00

"46 Minutes"

We are on vacation,

yet no one told her little teeth to take a break.

Her glossy pink gums being tortured by shiny pearls,

of course made this strawberry haired sweetie, a crab.

"We are going on a walk!" I declared.

I scoop her up and head out the door.

Walk. Breathe in. Slow down.

Easy, breezes flow to a place we long to go.

Sun rays filter through pines,

bathing my unshowered skin.

Salt and sand in my hair.

Don't care.

Crickets, rustling leaves,

CAW, CAW, CAW!

Flip flop flip flop.

Roll, roll, roll.

Tires on pavement spitting sand and pebbles as we stroll.

Polka dotted blanket,

worn thin from the love of three babes, placed gently in her chariot,

protecting my little pearl,

comforting this cherub as she is lulled off to slumber,

dreaming of sand-castles,

chasing seagulls,

and my cares away.

My blood runs slower.

The weight is lighter.

All is well in the world,

if only for a moment.

The house reappears as we round the corner.

I hold this memory in the palm of my hand

like a seashell that is a glorious treasure.

All mine.

Every bit of it.

Mine.

Inspired by a morning with Chica in Cape Cod. September, 2013

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,
Mama Nic

Welcome to the Shore!

2013-09-09T05:19:00.000-07:00

Being at the seashore last week sparked a few poetic feelings. What a glorious week we had in Cape Cod. Here is one of the poems that I would like to share.

" Welcome to the Shore"

Welcome to the shore!

Nautical flags fly high,
welcoming us back like old friends.

The windows go down to let the salty air spill in

intoxicating us with it's magical spell.

For week it is ours, our town by the sea.

Ice cream, lobsters, and gluttony.

Sun kissed skin,

Lapping waves,

and walks by the dunes.

Little hands holding nets,

and our hearts

stronger than the moon's

union to the tide.

Life by the sea.

This is where our family is meant to be.

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet

Mama Nic

Everyday Blessings

2013-08-28T05:58:00.000-07:00

Every day is a new chance for a magical moment, a smile, laughter, love, silliness, and adventure.

These are the moments that heal whatever ails me, makes it all worth it, and fill up my cup.

Here are 21 random memories from the past couple of weeks that I am grateful to have had.

Be mindful of your everyday blessings.

Joy and smiles are contagious, so infect as many people as you can today. This is my challenge for you all.

Breathe in the gratitude. Let go of the negative. Find joy and peace.

When you have too many thoughts in your head, too much to do.....keep it simple. Breathe. Let it go. Look around at all the beauty and blessing you have right in front of you.

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,

Mama Nic

A Few Choice Words about Hot Flashes

2013-08-26T08:45:00.001-07:00

Yup. You read that right. Hot Flashes! I just celebrated another birthday this month and am still in my mid-thirties, however my body seems to think I am older. The correct term I guess is, perimenopause. These past couple of years has seriously aged this Mama. No wonder I am packing up camp and retiring to SW Florida in a couple of years! HA! Just kidding. The move actually, is a new start for us and we all have a whole lot of living to do down there. The only think we will be retiring is our winter coats! Hooray for that!!!

Wow, I just got off topic..........

Anyhow. I would just like to vent to a moment about hot flashes.

First, who the hell named them hot flashes? Hot is an understatement! You know I like the heat and being hot is fine by me. Being scorched is something completely different and not tolerable. So "F" you "hot flashes."

Second. Why is the word flash even in there? It isn't like they come and go in a flash. They come on fast, yes. But the stay around for a while. It is like a whole session of torturing heat. "Flash" my A@$!!

I am naming mine Scorch Sessions. Seems more appropriate to me. Maybe I will say, "I am having a Double S." Or call them S.S. for short. I don't know. Just a random complaint about the term "Hot Flash."

Ok. That is all.

Back to your regularly scheduled day.

For me it is all about cleaning the house from top to bottom, and wiping a whole lot of runny noses.

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,
Mama Nic

P.S. Check out this link here if you suffer from any of this menopausal stuff. A pal of mine forwarded me this link and I think it is great. I have lots more reading and research to do and I will keep you all posted on any other great articles and sites.

Partly Cloudy and 38 Degrees

2013-08-18T13:57:00.001-07:00

My lucky Hubby (lucky for more than one reason) won some passes to the Harpoon Brewery for a tour and lunch!

You know me. Partly cloudy and 38 degrees is not my cup of tea...........Unless we are at the Harpoon Brewery in Windsor, VT!

Hubby and I were in celebration mode (my day of birth celebration mode), beer sample platters, perfect weather, good food, and even better company.

(( This one is for you Kim! ;) ))

Down the hatch. The Saison Various Sample Tray. #3 was my fav yet all were delicious.

Perfect conditions for a White UFO.

The scenery was a VT picture perfect.

Sitting back in the Adirondacks next to the beer that's abewin'. It is a tough job but someone has to do it.

Happy Mama. Sun. Beer. Quiet. Aaaaaaaaaw.

Add caption

We had pulled pork nachos, buffalfo wings, and some grass-fed, local meat. Delish!

I took this picture for my Dad who is a wood-worker and appreciates all things tree. So by genetics, so do I.

Next door is Silo Vodka......we didn't quite make it this time.

The happy couple at the brewery!

If you ever get the chance to make it up to Windsor, VT, I highly recommend stopping at the Harpoon Brewery for a tour and a lunch. It is worth the trip. Explore their beers, learn a little something about how beer is made, have a fantastic meal, shop for some cool Harpoon gear and leave a happy person.

Peace, Love, and Sandy Feet,

Mama Nic

On top of the world! (or at least a mountain!)

2013-08-12T12:58:00.001-07:00

Today I loaded up the lunch, drinks, diapers, wipes, napkins, and kids and drove to the top of a mountain with them.

It was just the type of adventure that the day called for.

The kids loved it up at Mount Greylock. This was our first trip up all together.

I have been up here so many times alone to hike. My favorite memories up here are actually with me and my hubby's dog, Madison, hiking on hot summer days. He was such a great hiking buddy. I miss him being around.

Today was for making new memories.

We started with sandwiches, juice, and my fav sea salt and vinegar chips. A few handfuls of fresh blueberries, and then a chocolate chip cookie.

It was gorgeous up on that mountain today.

Ooh the sass in this little one already.

Group Pic.

And another.

Bubba reading the trail map.

Now Marmalade takes a turn navigating.

Chica and I just follow.

And follow.

Hmmmm?

Here is my world. A great day with my babes!!!

And they are out.. One.


Two.

Three!

Hope your Monday had adventure in it too!

Peace, Love, and Sandy Feet,

Mama Nic

Home Design & DIY on the Brain

2013-08-08T08:08:00.000-07:00

Lately, I have had home on the brain. What makes a home? What renovations still need to be done to our home so that we can put it on the market in a couple years? What will our future home look like? What exactly is my dream home? How can I turn this dream into reality?

I have started a couple of boards on Pinterest to keep track of ideas and inspirations. I have one board called Inside Abode where I keep my ideas for the home we live in now.

Take a look at some of the ideas that I have used for our home.

I have used embroidery loops to showcase special fabric in my hallway. Here is the inspiration picture.

See it on Pinterest.

Here is what my hallway looks like.

I had a special piece of fabric that my Mother gave to me that was my Grandfather’s. Besides this fitting into the style of our house, it has a special story. My Grandfather used to work in a fabric mill when he was younger, and would run a machine that would roll endless yards of fabric. This fabric I have showcased here was his and makes me think of him every time that I pass it in the hall. I believe that all homes should have things in them that spark good memories in you. This one is for you Grandpa. I miss still miss you everyday but am glad I hold a spot in my home for your memory.

I started doing a wall of pictures in as assortment of frames on one wall of our living room. Here is the inspiration picture.

See it on Pinterest.

Here is my version of it.

It is still in progress and we still need to add the trim to the walls around it, but hey…..it is a start!

See it on Pinterest.

The picture above is something that I dream of being able to do for the wall under our breakfast bar area.

Another idea I would love is to have this as a door/baby gate in between the mudroom and kitchen. It would be perfect for us and our home.

Directions for this can be found on The Inspired Room

I know my husband would love to build a brand new garage for the home. I think this look would fit in perfectly! We have stacked stone on the corners of our home and to do an entire garage like this would be stunning. Although if he did, I think moving would be even harder.

Check out more pictures of this home in Alberta on Comfree.com.

We live in a log home now, and we just love to mix rustic or re-purposed materials with new items. I love that mix of style, the old and the new. I have put my heart into decorating this space for our family and it certainly will be hard to leave. Things around here are looking better and better everyday and just when we finish it up.....we will be moving on. It is kind of sad, but I have to remember that it is sweat equity and it was fun to do.

We still have to do the downstairs bathroom remodel. A bathroom like the one I found here would be fit our house like a glove.

Check out more pictures from the home on Comfree.com.

A lazy Susan in the corner of the kitchen is what we have now for cans of food, but this idea right here of putting pots and pans in there is superb and we must do this when we redo the kitchen. These shelves are specifically made for this purpose and I think it is genius!

This rustic but modern, lodge style won't work with our future coastal home and that is alright because I also love seaside styling. In fact I am really looking forward to creating a whole other kind of space that is even truer to our dream. I created a special board on Pinterest for this purpose. It tucks away all my ideas, until one day when I can bring them to life. Here is a link to that Pinterest board called SeasideStyle.

When thinking about our future home I am still drawn to the idea of taking things found in nature and using them to decorate. Driftwood, shells, colors of nature will all be used in our future home.

I don't know if we will have a fireplace on the coast, but if we do this one here would be gorgeous.

Checking down my list of dreams, an enclosed pool will be a must and I long to have a view of it from the living room or lanai.

Or this view would do as well.

See more inspiring pools at ParadiseInPuntaGorda.com.

I would also love to make this cute seahorse from driftwood for our new house.

DIY instructions can be found at Useful DIY.

I can already image all the memories of walking around the harbor to find driftwood with the kids and hubby. It is handmade touches like this that I adore in a home.

I think my future coastal dream home with be filled with lots of DIY projects, bright coastal inspired colors, an eclectic mix of new and found items, but most important of all......it will be filled with smiles, family, and love!

The internet is an endless source of ideas for decorating your home. I highly suggest using Pinterest to organize all your links of projects to try, items to buy, color schemes, and more. It is the easiest system I have found and as a busy Mama, I like easy sometimes!

Happy dreaming and happy decorating!

I will update you soon with pictures from our ongoing mudroom reno. Hubby has been a busy boy out there and it is turning out great! Check out our ceiling. This wood is the flip-side of the wood paneling that used to be in the living room! The trim work he is doing our here really gives a custom feel.

Taken from my Pinterest.

I keep telling him, the more this home comes together the more I am going to want to pack it up and bring it with us. It is shaping up to be our dream home. At least we can enjoy it for now until our next journey.

Find what inspires you and go for it!

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,

Mama Nic

Man-made beach? Sure! Why not?

2013-08-04T12:45:00.000-07:00

What do you do when you live hours and hours away from an ocean beach? You haul in 250,000 pounds of sand make your own!

We live right next door to a city that did just that..... Again!

This hasn't been the first year of this event and boy are they pros by now. They shut down the street, dumped 250 thousand pounds of sand from curb to curb the entire length of the street, and welcome all.

There's live music and DJ's. The kids get free pails and shovels, make sand castles, and just play in the sand. Free ice cream was given out, margaritas for sale, sand sculptures, even wading pools could be found.

My cutie patootie Marmalade, even made the local paper two years running. We all have lots of fun at this urban art Beach.

Everyone in town comes out for this one. I think it's considered an institution in this town since this is the 15th year it has been running.

I agree with Jimmy Buffett when he says "changes in latitude, changes in attitude." And when you can't change your latitude.......fake it!

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,

Mama Nic

Kairos

2013-07-31T04:54:00.003-07:00

I love when I learn something new at a time when I need the lesson. It seems to be a sign from the universe. I recently learned a new word. Kairos.

Kairos - an ancient Greek word meaning the right or opportune moment (the supreme moment). A moment of indeterminate time in which something special happens.

I read that and was like.........Wow! Beautiful!

I discovered this word because someone over at KairosLife.com emailed me for a little help promoting their new site. Their home page got me right away. It is gorgeous and evokes emotion. Below is a message from them.

"KairosLife.com is a place for families to save digital memories and heirlooms for kids and loved ones. Then digitally deliver those keepsakes to them at a predetermined date in the future, kind of like a digital time capsule or gift.

Our founder recently lost a close friend who passed suddenly without warning and was again reminded of how quickly life can be taken away, at any age.

He woke up one night with the idea of this site. He is a father of three and was thinking about the memories we want to keep forever - and how could they be stored, kept for the future, and delivered at just the right moment to have the greatest impact.

How does it work?

Upload photos, videos or letters from your PC or mobile device to a “KairosMoment” which is the album or capsule that will be delivered to your loved one on a future date.
Tag your loved ones to that KairosMoment and set a reveal date when it will be delivered.
As the reveal date approaches, if desired, other family members and friends can share their thoughts on that KairosMoment to add to the memories for that loved one.
Then on the reveal date, the loved one will get an email notifying them of a KairosMoment that has been unlocked.

We are still polishing up the site and are giving complimentary memberships to people who can help us. Just visit www.KairosLife.com and enter your email address."

Check out the sight and sign up if you wish. I am sure you have special memories that would make a special time capsule and gift for a loved one.

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,

Mama Nic

First Steps!

2013-07-26T06:38:00.000-07:00

This one is getting around. She can crawl across the room in the blink of an eye. She goes from the crawl to the crab-walk, to the zombie-walk (crab-walk with one leg while dragging the other), then the one step and plop down, and most recently 9 steps across the room! It won't be long before my baby is walking circles around her big brother and sister.

I love when I stumble upon cool products, and I really really love when I find out that the manufacturer is a stand up company as well.

A fine gentleman from Yochi Yochi sent me a pair of shoes for Chica to try out and for me to review. The opinions expressed here are my own and I was not paid or made to say anything in particular. (which is a good thing because Mama Nic doesn't roll like that!)

So, in having said that, I would love to introduce you to Yochi Yochi Footwear! There are 4 styles of shoes to chose from, (all adorable) and they are all more than just cute, they are functional.

I picked out Princess Sakura shoes and they arrived propmpty, packed in a cute little drawstring bag.

Chica may not be totally committed to walking everywhere, but soon she will be and she will be walking and squeaking all over! When your child takes a step the shoe squeaks This squeak besides making her giggle, is a way for me to know where she is. How cool is that? Also, Yochi Yochi says that doctors have suggested that when the kiddos "can audibly recognize their footsteps, the sounds can reinforce the natural rhythm of walking and actually help train them to walk".

From my inspection this product seems to be high quality. They are made of nylon and look really comfy for her little tootsies. The strap is extra wide and Velcros across. This is genius because the shoes can open up wide to get them easily on and off, which is a huge plus for me. Now, if only diapers were so easy to get on this squirmy kid we would be all set! The soles are rubber and adorned with a sweet panda face and of course as I mentioned already, they sqeak.

Chica likes to stand holding on to my bed and "hop" (go up and down from tipple-toe to heel) and make them squeak.

Yochi Yochi also claims to practice environmentally friendly practices. Examples of how they do this can be found on their site. They use water based dyes, energy efficient equiptment, and store rain water for daily factory use. Now, that makes me happy to hear.

I am sure you will see her tootsies clad in Princess Sakura Shoes in many pictures throughout the summer and fall.

Here are some fun things you can do while wearing Yochi Yochi Shoes.

Downward Dog pose.

Admire pretty shoes.

Play with feet.

Take a rest.

Totally chill.

Hula hoop!

Stare at shoes.

Enjoy Sister time.

Stare at pretty shoes.

Take a business call.

Oh, maybe this one was a personal call. She is very social, ya know?

Sneak into Mama's nightstand.

Hmmmm. What can I get out of here?

Oh yeah! They run from sized 4 to 10. Check them out and see if your kids like the squeaking sound too. http://yochishoes.com/

Well, I have to run.....

Chica's squeaking is getter a little to far away.....again!

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,
Mama Nic

A Learning Moment also know as "PLOT TWIST!"

2013-07-24T05:47:00.002-07:00

It's 4:24 a.m and I am not asleep. My mind swirls with thoughts too distracting for me to ignore and do want I really should be doing at this hour....sleep. We have just about 17 hours left until the date of our closing on our investment property and things are just not feeling right.

You know those red flags, those whispers that something just isn't right, those moments that your antennae stand up on end and make you think "danger!"........well, hubby and I have had to many to ignore in the home buying process, and I am a strong believer in NEVER ignoring your gut instincts.

So, we walk.

This wasn't a case of cold feet. It wasn't because we were second guessing our plan. There were just too many signs for us to go through with this and feel good about it. .

Without going into too much detail, I will just say that in this process there has to be trust, good communication, good vibes, and respect. When any one of those pieces start to crumble, what starts as a little problem soon turns to an avalanche.

This decision was not easy. I am disappointed. But I feel it was the right thing to do for us. It was a huge learning moment for us. I learned about the house buying process when you live in one state and the house is in the other, I made great contacts with home inspectors, insurance agents, property managers. I learned about the laws for situations like this. I learned to really trust our hunches and stand firm behind our beliefs.

This house just wasn't in the stars for us. Even astrology wasn't on our side for this one. Thanks to my pal for filling me in on Mercury Retrograde!

As a Mama of three I have learned to ALWAYS trust your gut when it comes to your babies. I am learning to apply that lesson to life in general and I think that this time, as hard as it was, we really stuck to our guns. Trust your gut!

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,
Mama Nic

A Body of Water Does a Body and Mind Good!

2013-07-15T16:47:00.002-07:00

I heart water. It could be a lake, pond, river, pool, ocean.....I just love it. There is something mystical about and the energy that surrounds it. I truly believe there is good vibrations coming from water, at least for me personally and the energy is positive. It is also healing, contagious, wondrous,soothing and beautiful.

The proof is there in the water, around the water and in my heart. It is there in the way it makes me feel. Maybe that is why I like islands so much. I don't feel trapped on them, I feel alive. The energy bouncing off the water that is vital and energizing. And plus, I think I am part mermaid.....and have had mermaid babies and a boy with fins instead of feet.

Take a look at the water I have visited just this year. Soak it in. Each memory. Precious. Magical.

Poolside with Chica.

Lake today!

More lake today.

Punta Gorda, FL at Harbor Heights Park.

Deep Creek, Punta Gorda, FL.

Ponce De Len Park. Punta Gorda, FL.

Port Charlotte Harbor.

Ponce De Leon Park.

Sunset view of the harobr in Punta Gorda, FL.

More of Ponce De Leon Park.

Venice Beach. Venice, FL.

Venice. View from rooftop at Sharky's on the Pier.

Laishley Park, Punta Gorda, FL.

Anna Maria Island, FL

And back to the lake......today.

Park around the corner from our house.

Wow, I am thankful for the things I have done this year!!!

There is NOTHING like the pull of the ocean. It pulls me in and keeps me coming back. Soon............to stay!!!

Today I wanted to be near water. I picked up my Gram who is still up visited us from Florida, collected the kids, and hit the lake. What a gorgeous day.

See proof below.

My little watermelon.

Standing up!

The "big" kids! They just happen to be part mermaid and fish.

That smile is sunshine itself!

Great Gram and her granddaughter.

He is up! (and then back down.) Wow that kid can swim underwater like it is his job! So proud of him.

The fish Bubba was trying all day to catch, barehanded. No success but trying was the fun part.

Love these two souls.

Water. Reason #368 that I am moving to become a member of a harbor-side community, in the Sunshine State!

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,
Mama Nic

An Alice In Wonderland, Double Birthday Party!!!

2013-07-10T06:06:00.001-07:00

This way to the Mad Hatter's Tea Party!

Lots of thought and planning went into this double birthday party for my girls!

We had a table with a basket of scarves, hats, necklaces, and bracelets to dress up in. Pink popcorn. Chica's Baby album to share. I also used old fabric I had an tablecloths.

The "big" kids helping with the Cheshire Cat Cupcakes! (Poor Bubba got stung under the eye.) I don't think they make the apple gummy lifesavers anymore, so I used mini marshmallows cut in half for the smile.

Lots and lots of grinning Cheshires!I also used an orange skittle for the nose because I thought it was cuter. I bought purple decorator gel and mixed it was a can of premade vanilla frosting.

A Cat in progress.

Everyone couldn't help but smile too when they saw these cutie cupcakes!

Truth!!!

DIY photo props! Google image. Print. Cut. Glue to straw. Done!

Fresh picked from our garden.

Chica!!!

See my balloon, Mama?

Cousins eating some cotton candy!

I made the girls dresses and mini mad hatter hats! Taking the photo was the biggest challenge. I used some of this template but added a paper plate to make the bottom a little sturdier. I also used ribbon and buttons and a butterfly to embellish it! I also added a Number one for Chica.

Marmalade trying out her cousins hat.

We also had Pin the Tail on the Cheshire Cat, but we never ended up playing with it. We were too busy and forgot!

Poppy helping with water balloons!

Chica's First Birthday Cupcake!

Getting into it now...

Oh yeah. Destroyed.

Num Num Num

I think half the fun was making the mess!

Another Birthday girl enjoying her special treat.

A Dora Fedora!!!

Even Bubba got a few gifts.

Bubba Rabbit.

A tiny Mad Hatter!

Finn enjoyed the party too.

Punch holes through playing cards and hang them with yarn. The banner was something I sewed for Marmalade's 1st Birthday.

Drink Me signs in the vases and on straws. Eat Me signs for all the food. Print. Cut. Glue to straws. Cut straws in half if you wish. Pop them in food and drinks.

Red heart balloons, velvet ribbons, streamers.

Our house of cards! (sorry.....it is a little fuzzy)

Inspiration for this came from here!

Mama, having fun with the props.

Off with her head!

Maybe you will consider having an Alice in Wonderland Party of your own! It was such a fun theme to do! Remember to go here to get some ideas!

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,
Mama Nic

Happy Birthday, America!

2013-07-08T05:42:00.002-07:00

Hey, everyone! I have LOTS of events to catch you up on from last week.

My Gram is here from Florida! Here she is with my Dad, the girls, and my nieces.

Let's start with the 4th of July! I hope you all had a happy and safe one. This one for me was mixed with happiness, loneliness, reflection, gratitude, being overwhelmed by anxiety at moments throughout the day, and moments of just sheer joy. Such is life!

Chica with her new haircut. She thinks she is hot stuff for sitting in that chair. And she is, of course!!

Hanging with Great Gram and Brumpa.

Cool dudes.

I think we need a bigger pool.

Gottcha, Cousin!

Down she goes.

Bubba, giving the slide a whirl.

This year we went to my Aunt and Uncle's house for a party. The setting was gorgeous on this HOT sunny day with the open spaces, a pond for catching frogs, a chicken coop to keep the kids entertained, kiddie pools to keep the little's cool, a giant tent to shade, and their famous waterside which provided fun for all.

It was a great day for catching up with family and friends. The food was unbelievable and no one went home hungry, that is for sure.

Hubby had to work that night and only got to stay for an hour. That night the "big" kids stayed at their Gramma and Poppy's house and got to check out the firework show in town. They are too little I guess for that still as the explosive sky did not hold their attention for long and asked to go home. It was a quiet night for me. I was home with Chica who went to be at 7:30, which left me to hang out with my bulldog, Finn. Our cat, Lake was hiding somewhere in the house. Ever since our boxer passed this year he is especially nervous anxious when he hears loud noises. The sound of fireworks in the distance put him in such a tizzy he had to sleep with me. The poor boy just paced about and trembled in fear all night. Usually I would love to get a break and have a quiet night at home, but that night I was admittedly a little lonely and was glad at least I had my dog. A ball of nerves or not, he was still there with me.

The 4th of July was my Gramma Mimi's Birthday and I miss her dearly. I miss her wit and sarcasm and her loving nature. She was always just so much fun! It saddens me that she was taken to early and that she never got to meet her great grandchildren. I know she is with me still in a different way, and when I hear the fireworks go off, I always think of her.

Great Gram's bracelet always provides entertainment for Chica or Marley. They just love playing with that piece of jewelry.

Being around family on this day also reminded me how hard it will be to move away from family and friends. I know it is the best decision for us, but it doesn't mean it is going to be easy. I think of the future fourth of July events and wonder where and what we will be doing. I am sure we will find our little group of friends to share them with. The unknown is always a little scary but all change is. I just hold tight that vision of our place in the sun and have faith that happy days will surely come.

I hope you are enjoying your summer days and nights.

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,
Mama Nic

The Fusion of Vision

2013-07-03T05:24:00.001-07:00

This morning my mind woke me early. If it isn't the kids, it is the dog. If it isn't the dog, then my mind is too busy. As I opened my eyes and looked around my room, I saw the wall decal that I applied before Chica was born. The message resonated with me like never before.

"Love does not consist in gazing at each other, but in looking together in the same direction."

This is the truth. It has never meant more for me than it does today. I feel extremely blessed, lucky, and fortunate to have a partner in life that see our path as one path, and that this path is one that WE forge together. We both see the fallen trees and debris in the way but we don't give up. We don't turn back. We keep on going. Together.

Not only do we keep going, we chose which way to make the path. If the path isn't working or things are getting too treacherous for our self or maybe for our partner, we choose another way. We work it out. When all is said and done, we are both just really trying to get to the same place. We travel on this path together both doing our part. Both lending a helping hand to the other. We know we belong at the destination together. We cherish the thought of it and it keeps us going even when our body or minds are feeling like we can't go on.

Our vision of the future, our goals, and destination where not something that just came to us all at once. The path slowly whispered to us, gave us clues as which way to go, and in the end we were both just quiet long enough to hear what was inside of us and know that we had the answers in us all along. Our answers had a similar voice and common message. This is what make us soul-mates. It wasn't always easy seeing eye to eye, and we still don't on everything, but I will say I truly feel that we are walking with the same intent these days and for that I am abundantly grateful!

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,
Mama Nic

Summa Summa Summa time. Summa time.

2013-06-30T14:19:00.000-07:00

I feel like I have had a marathon of a couple of

weeks.

Biz. E!

Oh hi, Marmalade.

Hubbs and I before going out to dinner.

Bubba in his car that we made.

Another shot of Bubba's car.

Chicaboom.

Homeschooling preschool takes quite a lot of work and planning. I decided instead of being "Super Mama" and doing it three days a week, I would settle for being "Almost Super Mama" and have it two days. I work four jobs right now, two from home and two outside the home and it was just too much. Fridays are just chill days with the kids. We may go on one of our adventures or run just go wherever the winds take us. We may just stay in our jammies all day, or put on our bathing siuts and splash in the kiddie pool. Yes, me too.

Pinterest has come in handy with lesson plans and activity ideas. The kids really enjoy it so far.

Check out some pics from a home-school day.

This was jungle week. Bubba was being an elephant.

I set up an obstacle course through the house with chairs, pillows, toys that they have to go around and pretend they were different jungle animals.

Youtube is a great source for finding short videos and songs to go along with out themed activities or lessons.

Bubba asks me to do this activity now just about everyday. They loved it!!! Seeing them have so much fun with something so simple that brought out their imagination was priceless.

Otherwise, for those who may be curious, this is a typical home-school day schedule.

Rise and shine at 7. (ish.........everything is ISH here)

Dress, brush teeth, comb hair, meds and head downstairs by 7:30.

Breakfast.

Mama cleans up and then checks emails while kids eat and watch some toons.

School starts around nine.

Pledge of Allegiance.

Lesson Board. Change date, record weather, count how many ongoing days of school we have had and record it, swith our "today, tomorrow, and yesterday" chart. Introduce theme of the week.
Sing a song of the week. Learn a vocab word based on theme.
Learn a moral or family value.
Review our address and Mama's phone number and how and when to call 911.

Then onto their own notebooks where they practice writing, numbers, shapes, counting, etc.

Coloring a picture based on theme.

Make a craft or do an activity based on theme.

Snack time.

Outside time.

Lunch.

Read books based on theme.
Naps.

Usually in a bed, but this day it was a chair.

Snacks.

This wraps up the school day by three or four.

Other than that, I have been buying fabric and supplies, designing dresses, and sewing, sewing, sewing! I am glad to report that people are really supporting My Sweet Marmalade this summer. Ya know, it is pinafore season.

Marmalade turns three this week and Chica turns one a week later so we are having a combo party this coming weekend. An Alice and Wonderland Party, in fact. I have been sewing special dresses, fashioing mini mad hatter hats for the girls, hand making decorations, signs, looking up recipes for pink popcorn and chechire cat cupcakes. You name it, I am trying to do it. I can't wait to show you how it all comes together!

Fabric for the girls special Alice in Wonderland dresses!

And last but certainly not least, we just signed a contract on a home in Florida! It is going to be a rental property for us, and who knows.....maybe we will use it for a temp home as we search for the perfect home for our family in our paradise. Either way, it is a great little house and until it closes, I think I will be a little anxious. I do feel happier already knowing I own a little slice of heaven.

I am trying to get as much yoga into our lives as I can. (note: Marmalade made up that yoga pose on her own.)

My tribe!

Soul-searching lead to a vision. A vision lead to a plan, and step by step it is coming together. To think back on how the last couple of years have brought me to this place, this space.........it is amazing. Never give up no matter what is going on in your life. You have know idea the joy that is in store for you if you just believe.

I hope you are enjoying your summa-time! Keep your eye on my facebook page this week. I will be giving a coupon code for a HUGE one day sale in honor of Marmalade's Birthday.

It is going to be a busy week again, so if I don't post again this week, have a fabulous Fourth of July!

Peace, Love, and Sandy feet,
Mama Nic

Moore From Katie - A Guest Blogger!

2013-06-12T05:26:00.001-07:00

Hey there Mamas! Today I am pleased to introduce to you Katie Moore, from Moore From Katie!

Katie Moore has written and submitted this article. Katie is an active blogger who discusses the topics of, motherhood, children, fitness, health and all other things Mommy. She enjoys writing, blogging, and meeting new people! To connect with Katie contact her via her blog, Moore From Katie or her twitter, @moorekm26

How Natural Living Helped Me Have a Healthy Pregnancy

Before I got pregnant for the first time, I had always heard about the benefits of natural living on the news and in magazines. However, I always believed that a natural lifestyle would be too expensive and way too much work. I pictured people spending hours in their garden and washing their laundry by hand. As I sped through my busy life, consumed by my career and social life, I just brushed off natural living as one more thing that I did not have time to worry about. However, once I found out that I was pregnant, I realized I needed to reexamine my lifestyle. No longer did it seem right to gulp down a fast food burger on the way home or skip breakfast before heading off to work. I knew that my baby depended upon me to keep my body in optimum health. Once I started investigating natural living, I discovered that it was far easier than I had ever believed, and it saved me money. Here, are a few of the things I did to make the switch to natural products without sacrificing any time or money!

Pack Healthy Meals

One of the first areas that I changed when I was pregnant was my eating habits. I have to admit that I had made it a habit to eat out on almost a daily basis. Additionally, I soon discovered that many of the foods that I ate were coated in harmful chemicals such as pesticides. This meant that even when I thought I was eating healthy, I really wasn’t. So, I began my journey toward natural living by purchasing organic fruits and vegetables. I found that these tasted delicious and began to prepare healthy snacks that I could carry with me everywhere I went. When hunger struck, all I had to do was reach in my bag and pull out an organic apple or pear. Not only was this convenient, but I also managed to save money by not eating out. Additionally, my switch to organic produce made the transition to preparing my baby’s food at home much easier.

Choose Natural Cleaners

As many women do, I love the smell of a freshly cleaned house (especially if someone else cleaned!). For the majority of my life before pregnancy, I had spent tons of money on air fresheners, scented candles and household cleaners that made my home smell like the beachside. Unfortunately, I had never given a thought to how many harmful chemicals are used to make many of the most common cleaners. If I had, I never would have used them in my home. Once I began to research how to raise a healthy child, I knew that I would need to begin eliminating these types of chemicals to safeguard by growing baby’s development.

Once again, I was surprised at how simple making my own cleaners from natural ingredients could be at home. For example, a half and half mixture of vinegar and water can be used to clean a multitude of surfaces. Add a little baking soda to some vinegar and you also have a powerful drain cleaner. For my baby, I also used homemade laundry soap and began using wool dryer balls instead of fabric softener. I also discovered that these natural cleaners still made my home smell fresh and clean without heavy perfumes. If you prefer a scent, adding a few natural oils to your cleaner such as lavender will still provide you with a lovely scented home.

Select Cloth Diapers

As I began to realize the positive impact that natural living had on my diet and home, I decided to explore using cloth diapers when my baby was born. While I had once viewed cloth diapers as an ancient practice used back before disposables, I was shocked to discover how far cloth diapering has come since the days of pins and stacks of cloth. Instead, cloth diapers came in bright and fun patterns as well as a variety of styles. Additionally, since I used natural laundry soap, all I had to do was toss them in the washer as I would any normal load of clothes. Once my friends noticed how easy it was and my baby’s lack of diaper rashes, they even made the switch.

Looking back, I have my pregnancy to thank for leading me to a more natural lifestyle. Although I had always wanted to try organic cooking and homemade cleaners, it took having my daughter to shift my priorities. Now that she is a toddler, and I get to watch her grow in a safe home free of harmful chemicals, I know that I will never go back to the unhealthy lifestyle I had before. Instead, I will continue to reap the benefits of an affordable and easy way to improve my child’s life through natural living. If you have any questions or concerns throughout your pregnancy, feel free to ask your doctor. My doctor was able to advise me about everything pregnancy related- from prenatal vitamins to cord blood banking options. Being informed throughout your pregnancy leads to a happier pregnancy!

I hope you enjoyed these great tips from our new friend, Katie.

And with that I leave you with a message from Chica...................

Peace!

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,

Mama Nic

Mint Smores Jumble

2013-06-10T10:17:00.000-07:00

You are SO going to make this......like, right now!

Gather:

One bag of Kraft Chocolate Mint Mini Marshmallows

Two Hershey's Chocolate Bars (broken up)

16 squares of Honey Graham Crackers (broken up into tinier squares)

Small Salted Pretzels(about 3 cups)

Jumble up in a bowl.

Devour!

Sweets for my Sweets!

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,
Mama Nic

A Look at MY Sweet Marmalade

2013-06-05T12:43:00.000-07:00

Did you all know that my oldest girl was the inspiration for my sewing business called My Sweet Marmalade?


Yup. There she is right there. My Sweet Marmalade herself!

My passion for sewing teeny tiny dresses, ignited when she was about six months old.

There she is in the first ever pinafore that I designed and sewed. Aaaaaaaaaaw!

That little girl sparked something within my soul and I reconnected with my fashion design and retail roots.

Yes, being a busy Mom limits my time spent on just about anything, but if something is important to you, you find a way to weave in onto your life.

Because of her, a business, a passion, a label was born!

Marmalade is turning three next month! Oh how time flies.

With the pinafores I design I try to make them as functional, high quality, economical, eco-friendly as I can. Of course, being high on the sweetness scale is also top priority. All My Sweet Marmalade pinafores have these goals in mind as I design each one. As I design, sew, wrap, label, and mail them off........love goes into each and every step.

Let me walk you through what this really means.

FUNctional!

Easy on and off. The pinafore fits a modern Mom’s and Babies lifestyle. No fussy buttons to deal with. Just slip it right over her head and get going.

She burps or spills milk……flip it over!

Two looks, one dress!

High Quality!

The label is handmade
Choice of thread
Designer fabrics

Economical!

You get two looks in one!
Criss-cross design in back makes this garment very accommodating to an ever growing child. Therefore, it can be worn season after season. This pinafore will start out about mid-thigh (depending on the height of the child) and end up as a tunic or shirt.

Eco-Friendly!

This was a blanket in it's past life.

Label is 100% organic cotton
I try and use up-cycled material where appropriate

Take a look at this custom pinafore I designed for Marmalade's first birthday.

Two years later!

Mind blown?

I know that Mar is a peanut, but I do believe that most girls can use these pinafores season after season, or maybe year after year!

The pinafore is a timeless staple in any girls closet. In the warmer months it can be worn alone with a pair of bloomers, shorts or even over a bathing suit. Just layer it over short or long sleeve onesies or shirts for when it’s cooler. Leggings, pants, and leg warmers also look adorable when paired with your pinafore.

If you have a little girl that could use some threads from My Sweet Marmalade, head on over to Etsy! (sizes run from newborn up to a 5T!)

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,
Mama Nic

Being Idle and I don't Mix.

2013-06-01T13:46:00.000-07:00

This is from Thursday..................

I am sitting in my van at a dead stop since 8:42. It is now 9:02.

So much for being in the office at 9.

I have been patient with this so far, drinking coffee, listening to tunes. I call into work and let them know I will be there as soon as this traffic clears.

Now I start to get antsy. The reason is that I have a very difficult time being idle.

Not just in my car, but in life. My heart starts to pump faster, teeth start clenching. I feel like an annoyed bull in a pen. Let me free!

source: weheartit.com

Ok. Ok. "Roll with it."

source: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/2349044

Deep breathes.

source: http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/99/bd/3e/99bd3ed7de5d8e67546136b7b24d5685.jpg

Some more deep breathes.

source: http://media-cache-ec4.pinimg.com/originals/0e/fc/42/0efc42dca2b0fe597d4a1e46ab25bd49.jpg

I have a pen. I have a notebook!

little notebook : BIG ideas little book

Just write.

I don't recomend writing and driving, but I am NOT moving at all.

Not sure why I have such a problem being stuck here. It is quiet expet for the music I am choosing to play. It is warm, so windows are down. You know me, I am a fresh-air addict.

I start thinking about the whole creative process and what I physically and emotionally feel when creating something, and when I want to but cannot.

Being creative is a must for me.

If I am not able to express myself somehow creativly, things start to turn ugly.

Creating is an energy and if it is not manifested into something positive, the energy just gets stuck. It ends up coming up anyway but in ways that are negative. Yelling at the kids, being short with Hubby, being moody.

This is so true. As I sit her I realize this.

I heard Brene Brown on Oprah's Super Soul Sunday speak about this. She said that

Unused creativity is not benign. It metastasizes and turns into grief, rage, and shame. We are Divine beings and we are by nature creative!

I think that is brilliant and perfectly said.

This is on the "to read"list for me.

Alright.

Traffic is moving.

Again, so am I.

Love, Peace and Sandy Feet,
Mama Nic

Reinventing Our Schedule…..and the Playroom too!

2013-05-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

Reinventing Our Schedule…..and the Playroom too!

As I explained in the last post, I am starting to “home school preschool” on Monday for the kids. I wanted a space that we could call our “classroom” and use as a playroom.

This is NOT my home, but I wish it were! I love this look.

This year the term reinventing keeps popping up. It is about taking what you have, and making it better. It is redefining a space, your dreams, and your personal goals. It can be small or large scale, but the point is just to improve your world one thought and one task at a time.

My solution is to use our spare room, otherwise known as our computer room, or catch-all room, or “where we through our stuff when we don’t know where to through it” room.

This spare room of ours is on the agenda to get a complete overhaul. For now I will work with what is here. I have started the job of giving it a good cleaning, planning to redecorate it, and repurposing it to be our very own school and playroom.

I love organizing rooms and finding better solutions to making them function. I also love to bring an element of design to a space and make them pretty, inviting, and most importantly our own.

Here is a quick tip to organizing. Velcro! Check this out. I put the tape on the wall (because I can never find it!). I put the markers on the easel, and on the wall by our board.

I also love command hooks that don’t ruin your wall. I used those for hanging our lesson board and for what will be hanging the month, day, and year. The kids can change out things on the board every school day. If you`re interested in these hooks as well, I found some great coupons from Command.com.

I picked a spot on the wall for our new “Learning Board.” High enough so Chica can’t grab at it, but low enough for the older two to manage working at it.

Here is the very beginning stage of our board.

I used this as inspiration for our learning board. Why invent the wheel, when it’s been done already? Just add your special touches, and what is best for your kids at the stage they are in.

This is just one of the many boards I found online. She has all the links to the print-outs right there!

Follow my Preschool at Home Board on Pinterest for my latest ideas.

For artwork, I would love to have something like these prints from Studio Mela, found on Etsy.

Here is the link to the shop, http://www.etsy.com/shop/dazeychic?ref=seller_info

I will also use the kids artwork on the walls to make them, and Mama, proud of what they have already done.

Next was arranging the furniture in a way that made more sense for our new playroom/preschool. I moved around some furniture. Took the drum set that was taking up too much space out to the mudroom, and moved in a rug that I had in storage. I put a pretty quilt over the couch to make it inviting to all snuggle and read.

But now I’m missing something. Some comfy seats of their own for my little students! You can never have enough places to lounge. I thought about Bubba’s school and quickly came to the conclusion that we need bean bags for our room. He has them at his school and the kids love them. I also like this idea because it brings some nostalgic memories back to me of my tan corduroy one that I had growing up. It is funny how things like that stick with you.

I want our time here to stick with them.

When I went online, I found all sorts of cool options!
How about this?

( I found this one on kohlemuni.com)

I can just see the three of them now!

Hmmm. Perhaps these? I love the bright colors and funny disguise faces!

Or this?

(I found this one on BeanBagBoss.com)

Or a giant one for all three to share!

(This one if from Jaxx Bean Bags)

I have a lot more work to do but this is a start! This is going to be a great summer adventure for all of us! I am a little bit nervous about how it will go, how much work it will be for me to keep things going, and interesting for them. Here is my advice to myself when it comes to that negative chatter…..

We are DOING THIS!

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,

Mama Nic

Roll With It

2013-05-29T06:18:00.002-07:00

It is fast approaching summer. Just when I have gotten into a groove here with our family's schedule, it will all change.....again.

"Roll with it." This is my mantra.

This is not my foot, although I love the idea! I found her on Pinterest.

My husband brought up the point that Bubba never gets a break from preschool. He goes five days a week, all year long. His only break from preschool is if we go on vacation and take him out. Hubby approached me with the idea to have him stay at home with me and the girls three days a week, and send him to school on the two days we send Marmalade. Chica goes to a daycare on those days, so I can go to my office job. This will give him a "summer break". (Well, sort of anyway.) I also know that the sister will like having him around more.

At first, to be completely honest I had a negative reaction to the idea. The fact that things were just feeling manageable for me, and the fact that when you get this boy off his routine, things become a nightmare and is night terrors and bad behavior quickly return. He is a good boy at heart, but he is a four year old and still a young man in training. He has lots of training ledft to do.

When I got the chance to stew about this for a day, my opinion drastically changed. When else can I do this with my kids? Now is the time that this will work, so why not take advantage of being at home a few days a week with my little loves?

I decided to turn the three days a week into a home preschool. We would do lessons, crafts, have outside play, reading, field trips, the works!

I know, you are probably thinking that he still isn't getting a break from school, but trust me, this is better than having them do nothing all day. I think they will love this idea.

I didn't want him to stop learning while he was on summer beak, and knew that he would love the structure and projects that I could do with him. I also wanted to keep them all busy so they wouldn't get bored and fight. Plus, it would be good for me to have some structure to my days with them as well.

Love this idea of a tree growing in the room and this would so fit into our log home!

Before I knew it, I was knee deep into looking up lessons.

Wish us luck! Schools starts Moinday.

Love, Peace, and Sandy Feet,
Mama Ni