It's ALL Good in Mommyhood

This is Me, Saving Money

2013-05-20T08:06:00.001-04:00

I have a not-so-secret secret. I just moved.

I moved from New York to Pennsylvania, and settling in has been hectic. I've been unpacking, cleaning, organizing and driving around aimlessly looking for places to shop. I'm also driving around frustrated because I don't know where anything is.

This wastes a lot of gas.

Since moving to PA, I've enrolled my daughter in a new gymnastics school and my boys have joined baseball teams. Most weekdays after school look something like this:

3:15 - pick up from school
4:00 - leave for gymnastics, with everyone in tow
4:30 - drop daughter at gymnastics, turn around and head home
5:00 - drop boys at baseball practice or game
7:30 - go back to gymnastics
8:30 - head back home and drown my exhaustion in ice cream

In case you're overwhelmed, I'll sum this up by saying I drive more than I did in New York. I didn't think this was possible, but apparently it is. I'm blessed that gas prices are lower in Pennsylvania, but I'm still spending more than I care to know about on fuel.

I'd rather buy clothes. Or ice cream.

I've mentioned the Fuel Rewards Network™ program - or FRN™ program - on my blog before, and it's so great I'm mentioning it again.

I signed-up a few weeks ago, and I save a few dollars on gasoline every time I fill my tank. This may not sound like much, but it does add up. Saving $2.00 every time I fuel up can save me around $20/month. Which means I'm saving $240/year.

That's a lot of ice cream.

Along with earning rewards grocery shopping, dining out and shopping online, FRN members can also earn rewards on car washes and automotive services at participating Shell stations. Basically, just by living your life and doing what you normally do, you can save money on gasoline.

This is me, in my gigantic "do these make my giant head look smaller?" sunglasses, saving money. Don't I look happy?

FRN also has a mobile app to track your rewards, which makes life very easy. I love easy.

If you haven't joined the Fuel Rewards Network program, you're missing out on big savings. Money you could spend on groceries, clothes or vacations. Anything sounds better than spending money on gas for the car.

I love my little fuel card, he goes with me everywhere.

If you want to save money (who doesn't?), visit fuelrewards.com and sign up today. It's quick and easy, and you'll be so glad you did. You can also get more information by visiting the FRN Facebook Page.

Watch these fun videos that show how great it feels to save with FRN!

Happy driving, and even happier saving!

Teacher Gift: Candy Jars

2013-05-17T09:05:00.002-04:00

If you teach my children stop reading.

I'm 99% certain that warning was not needed.

If your munchkins are still in school (can't keep up with nationwide school calendars these days), this post might come in handy. If by some chance you're already enjoying your summer vacation with your kids, save this post for next year. Or use it for a camp counselor. Or a birthday gift.

Or make it for yourself and eat the candy when your kids are driving you mad and you want to stick needles in your eyes.

These candy jars are very easy to make. And they require little extra supplies if you have some basic craft items in your house. A glue gun is worthwhile investment if you don't have one, as are jelly/jam jars.

Jars are very versatile, and glue guns are awesome.

These jars are whimsical, fun, and they can save you money if you are in need of a few teacher gifts.

Two important tips for these jars.

#1: You are going for color. Bright colors work for ribbon and candies.
#2: Use what you have in your home. Don't go crazy purchasing special ribbon or tissue paper. Find something that will work in your basement or closet and USE it!

"Super Sweet Teacher" Candy Jars

Supplies:

Jars with lids (I recommend Pint Jars or larger)

Candies (Skittles, M&M's etc)

Colorful ribbon (curling and craft ribbon)

Colorful tissue paper, wrapping paper or regular paper

Printer

Scissors (craft and regular)

Glue Gun (or use Elmer's if you must)

Cellophane or plastic treat sacks if attaching gift card

Wash and dry jars and lids.

Full with assortment of colorful candies (I used Skittles and M&M's).

Cut tissue paper in squares to fit over jar lids, leaving about 2-3" around edges. Screw lid on gently.

Measure craft ribbon alongside rim of jar, and cut. Using glue gun, secure in place.

If attaching a gift card, wrap in cellophane. Cutting down those plastic treat bags works well too. Tie curly ribbon tightly around cello (or party bag). Leave enough slack to tie this ribbon around jar (leave about 12" to be safe. You can always trim it down).

On printer, print out "Sweets for a SUPER SWEET Teacher" or "Thanks for being a SUPER SWEET Teacher" card.

Cut card into square with craft scissors (or regular if you don't have them). To spruce up card glue it to a piece of colorful cardstock or construction paper. Cut to size and punch hole in top left corner.

Tie card onto front of gift card using curly ribbon. Loop the curly ribbon around the neck of the jar, cross in back and tie in front (in front of gift card). Curl ribbon with scissors.

If desired, secure curly ribbon on back of lid with glue gun.

Voila, teacher gifts, in just a few minutes!

One major bonus to making these jars??

You can eat the candy as you make them!

Have a fab Friday, and yes, this is a semi-repost (if you wondered why this idea looked familiar...).

Juggling

2013-05-15T16:18:00.000-04:00

There's a reason I eat ice cream and drink Frappuccinos. They bring me peace. And solace.

I remember when I had my first two babies, I loved every minute. It was manageable, and even though it was exhausting I loved it. I still do. But I also remember my mother forewarning me that things don't get expensive, and tough, until those babies get a little bit older. I told her I knew, but I wasn't afraid. I could handle anything and mommyhood was all hearts and roses.

Truthfully, I had that "it won't happen to me" thing going on. Kind of like when you have a baby and you see another mom struggling with her toddler in a store. She is flustered and has mommy-sweat. She is bribing with cookies and lollipops, just trying to get out of that store in one piece.

That would never be me. I would never need to bribe with candy and sweets.

Puh-lease.

Guess what? I've bribed with all kinds of sugar, hundreds of times. Times ten.

I'm currently experiencing exactly what my mom, a mom of six, told me would happen. I have four kids, three of which play sports. They love sports. And they all have to be at a field, or a facility at least 3 times a week.

Usually four.

That is 9-12 places I need to be every week, before I've even tackled homework or bought groceries. Naturally, these practices and games usually overlap, and I'm blessed to have the best friends anyone could ask for two miles away.

They have two boys, and have semi-adopted my four kids as well. They help me get my boys where I need them to be when I am stuck at gymnastics. Or a concert. Or another field.

When I left New York, I left behind my mother and the support system she provided. Along with her wisdom and fore-warnings, she was an extra person to handle what my kids needed. Now, with Hubby working more and me knowing much less about my surroundings, life is all about juggling.

And looking to hire to a kick ass sitter.

Until I find that special sitter, I will bury my face in munchkin hugs and kisses.

Oh, and venti Frappuccinos.

Amen.

Ten

2013-05-14T13:58:00.004-04:00

My older daughter is ten today. This is kind of odd because the last time I checked she looked something like this?

Truthfully, I remember turning ten rather well. I felt like ten was so much older than nine. I felt like I was this big kid suddenly, and not a baby anymore. But in reality, it was just one day. One morning I was nine and the next I was ten. That's it. But to me, growing up, it felt like a world of a difference.

That extra digit really meant something.

I see my daughter turning ten, and I'm blessed and happy with how innocent she still is, and how I've been able to keep her pace slower than mine was. She isn't chasing boys on the playground or prank calling them. She isn't wearing makeup to school or carrying a purse. She still happily rides her scooter and sometimes her clothes don't match (please don't tell her this).

Most importantly, she has a bed full off cherished stuffed animals.

Time passes quickly, and it's hard to believe she isn't a toddler anymore. Or learning her alphabet. She is growing into a responsible, loving "tween," and I'm afraid for the day she actually does want a boyfriend.

Oh the agony. Hold me now.

Today, I'm celebrating my baby girl, who is no longer an actual "baby" (excuse me while I sniffle). I would love to hold her just once more as a tiny newborn, wearing her preemie sleeper. Or rock her to sleep as a toddler after a busy day.

That would be the ultimate gift.

I'll have to celebrate with big hugs and birthday cake, because this kid is worth celebrating. Her tiny face still takes my breath away, and I'm beyond blessed she is my daughter.

Boys, stay away.

Seriously.

Happy double digits to my girl!

Happy Happy, to You!

2013-05-12T11:01:00.001-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the sleepy eyed, overworked mommies out there. Hug your babies; cherish those handmade cards.

It doesn't get much better than scribbles, poems and drawings of hearts, rainbows and little stick mommies.

I'm hoping for an afternoon siesta and a large Starbucks, no fancy meal necessary. It doesn't take much to make this Mama happy.

I have what I need, and I'm very grateful for those tiny faces.

Happy Mother's Day everyone!

Abercrombie and Fitch, Shame on You.

2013-05-10T09:20:00.002-04:00

All this Abercrombie and Fitch hoopla is pretty upsetting. I have never, in my life, heard any CEO speak with less class. Speak with less regard for how impressionable young kids are, and how vitally important it is to nourish and nurture their differences as they find their way in the world.

Abercrombie, you make very cool clothes. Albeit a little too "sexy" for my taste these days, they are cool nonetheless. I give you that credit. When I was in high school, I loved shopping in your store. I was small in stature, and I still am. I'm guessing I was exactly what you were looking for as far as clientele goes.

Small. Blond. Money to spend.

What you don't understand is that by what you have declared, you are losing the very clientele you desire in your store. I haven't shopped in your store in years, but that is because I see no reason to spend $100 on a pair of jeans.

I grew up.

Now, I would never shop there because I can't imagine feeding into your "image," and I would never let my small stature-d kids feed into it either. You see, my kids may be the right size for your clothes. They may even be the "athletes" or the "cool kids." They may not be. It doesn't matter. Kids are kids, and mommies look out for all the kids the love. Everyone is "cool" in their own right, and shame on you for publicly trying to say size makes you cooler than someone else.

You have just contradicted, on very public and impressionable platform, what every good parent spends countless hours trying to teach their kids. Size doesn't matter, be yourself, don't be a follower. The list is endless when we are trying to instill a strong sense of self in our precious children.

Thanks for sh*tting all over our hard work.

Character makes someone cool. Being an individual makes someone cool. Having a good heart and passion for what they love makes someone cool.

An "A&F" label on a tee shirt does not make anyone cool.

I am a firm believer that you are permitted to sell any size you like. If you cater to larger people, sell larger sizes. If you cater to smaller people, sell smaller sizes.

That is not my issue.

You have labeled large people and labeled small people. And we don't appreciate labels. We are who we are for what is underneath our clothes, and underneath our skin. And a large, popular retailer should know better than to say it doesn't want certain people wearing its clothes.

Let this mommy of four give you some business advice. Don't piss off mommies. You make kids feel badly about themselves because they aren't "cool enough" or "rich enough" to shop in your store, and we don't give our kids money to shop in your store.

We don't buy our kids birthday gifts in your store, or Christmas gifts in your store.

Cheers to all the mommies and daddies out there who know that "cool" doesn't come from a label. And keep teaching your kids the same, while you shop in American Eagle.

Triscuit Macaroni and Cheese (Please!)

2013-05-09T13:56:00.000-04:00

It's been a long while since I've posted a recipe. This is because it's been a long while since I've cooked anything other than pancakes, grilled cheese, chicken nuggets or pasta for many months.

I've been moving. And competing for Mother of the Year.

Last week, I jazzed up my mother's classic, super easy and super delicious macaroni and cheese with crumbled Triscuits. It was nothing short of fabulous. In between the creamy and dreamy macaroni and cheese was a salty, crunchy heavenly Triscuit flavor.

Amazing.

You can thank me later.

5 cups milk (you can go whole, 2% or 1%...depending on what you prefer. I do 1% for the waistline)
1 32 oz container Velveeta (I used 2% milk Velveeta)
1 box shells
1 cup crumbled Triscuits
Pepper (as desired)

Preheat oven to 350.

Warm milk over low heat in a heavy 6 quart saucepan. Slice Velveeta and add slices, one at a time, while stirring slowly. Continue to add Velveeta until only 1/3 of Velveeta remains. Stir milk and Velveeta until cheese is completely melted.

While preparing milk and Velveeta, on separate burner, cook shells and drain.

Pour shells into a 9x13 baking dish, and pour milk/Velveeta mixture over top. Slice a few extra slices of Velveeta and push in between shells. Add pepper as desired. You will have extra milk/Velveeta, how much you add is how creamy you like your mac n' cheese.

Sprinkle Triscuits over top.

Bake at 350, for approximately 20 minutes or until bubbling.

ENJOY!

Confessions

2013-05-07T09:14:00.001-04:00

*Don't forget to sign up and save on gasoline with FRN! *

Every so often I feel the need to open up and tell the world something they may not know about me. Especially those of you gorgeous people who know me mostly, or only, through this blog.

I would never want you to think I have it all together (so not true) or that I actually mop my floors (does spot cleaning count?).

Today, I'm telling you this...

I curse like a sailor. All the time. It's not very pretty and it's a terrible habit. But I use, quite regularly, all those awful bad words we constantly tell our kids NOT to say. I use them hundreds of times a day and they now are so natural to me they slip out when I least expect them to.

It's very unladylike. And un-mother-like. The other day I was walking behind my daughter on the stairs, and I was saying something. I can't even remember what it was. But I slipped a f*ck in there without even blinking. My daughter gasped and turned at me with a "MOM!"

Thank heavens for kids who know better than to use language their parents use.

I don't know when I started using these words, or even why. It may be because I have four brothers. Or maybe it's because I started with a few choice words and now I've expanded to more words, and I just created a monster.

I do know with certainty that waitressing did not help. If anything, it only fed my terrible, awful, no good potty mouth.

I'm trying to cut back, and I promise I know better than to use these words out in public or in front of other people's munchkins. I can manage a filter when it is absolutely necessary.

To wrap this up, Happy F*cking Tuesday. Just kidding, kind of (wink).

Have a good one!

Runnin' On Empty

2013-05-06T08:19:00.000-04:00

I drive from 8:30am until 7:30 at night. While I don't drive continuously, my days are a back-and-forth, to and from school, running-errands-and-getting-kids-to-activities blur.

The other evening, after pulling into my driveway after another long day in the car, I started to wonder how much I spend on gas every week. After starting my gas-pump-tally, I decided not to figure it out. I knew it would only depress me, because it's a lot of money. More money than I care to spend on gasoline.

With gas prices constantly skyrocketing, it's important for everyone to consider different ways to save on gas. While the easy way to save is not to drive, that is not a reality for many of us.

I imagine my kids would be very disgruntled if I told them we were no longer signing up for football, baseball, gymnastics or clubs. Oh, and no more playdates unless we have them at our house.

Huh? Seriously?

A simpler (and more sane) solution to gas prices is joining the Fuel Rewards Network™ program - or FRN™ program. The FRN program is free and easy to join, and if you drive as much as I do, it can save you plenty on gas. You can sign up online, or stop in any Shell station to receive your card. Once you have your card, and your account set up, you can start saving on gas every time you hit the pump. Members save on average $0.31/gallon on fuel (according to fuelrewards.com on 5/6/13). Over the course of the year, that REALLY adds up.

My favorite part of the Fuel Rewards Network program is that your fuel rewards aren't limited to money you spend at Shell stations. You can link your participating grocery cards, shop online, dine out and more, all to up your gas savings. I was thrilled to realize that as I'm stocking up on my weekly groceries, eating out with Hubby, and buying gifts, I am also saving on gasoline.

Pretty cool. Definitely a win-win.

Visit the Fuel Rewards Network program to sign up, or visit their Facebook page for more information. Happy saving!

Would you like a $100 Shell Gift Card?

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What I've Learned

2013-05-02T09:05:00.002-04:00

I'm just shy of three weeks in my new house. The days fly by, and every day I am experiencing new places, people and things.

I grew up in New Jersey. I'm a "Jersey Girl" at heart. Since getting married I've lived in Connecticut, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. We've moved around due to job changes and cost of living issues, but only recently have I ever lived out of what I would call the "tri-state" area.

A few years ago, I met a mom who had a daughter on my daughter's gymnastics team. She was from Texas. Being in the military, they moved around A LOT. She had been many, many places, and told me over and over again how she just couldn't get used to New York. The people seemed hurried, the pace was too fast. The people were nice, but they kept to themselves. She felt very out of place those few years in New York, and was excited to head south when her husband was transferred.

I understood what she was saying, but it never phased me. When you grow up in an area, it's all you know. I had great friends all my life, and I know how incredible the people are in the tri-state area. But I know because I always lived there, I never had to break down any barriers or try too hard to meet people.

Since living in Pennsylvania, I understand completely what she was saying. I am having to get used to this pace, which is definitely easier than getting used to the tri-state pace. Not everyone honks when you are unsure of where to turn and you're crawling at a green light, and I have yet to have anyone pass me on any road other than a highway.

People here say hello and wave just to say hello and wave. Total strangers. And they aren't being creepy.

Now that took a little getting used to.

Dinner is called "supper," and supper is earlier than 8pm. There are more men in trucks here than any other vehicle, and there are actually facilities who discount the more expensive tuition if you sign up a second child.

Wow.

I must admit, the feeling is different when not everything you do costs $100, and there isn't that mad rush to get everywhere. The entire lifestyle is just, different.

I'm still learning and still meeting people, and not everything has been roses. I'm also missing some of the tri-state life.

Can someone please tell someone we need a Starbucks drive-thru?

But I'll be good here. My kids will be good here. Pennsylvania is taking excellent care of us, and we're enjoying the people, the slightly different culture and the country roads.

Happy almost Friday. Have a good one!

The Piano

2013-05-01T09:28:00.003-04:00

I have an interesting problem every time we go to school concerts. My daughter, the gymnast, is very petite.
Very petite.

Her tiny stature never fails to land her in the front row at every concert. Which in turn never fails to leave us with an interesting debacle....which side of the piano should we sit on?

Left or right?

If we choose the wrong side of the auditorium, she will be completely blocked by the lovely pianist and the giant piano. It goes without saying that almost every concert we choose the wrong side of the auditorium.

Last night was my daughter's Spring Concert. Bless her little heart. I questioned her as to where she would be standing. She told us, "first row (shocker), the middle, maybe to the right, kind of."

Huh?

Hubby and I did our best to scurry as close to the stage as possible. We decided on the first set of seats we found, on the left of the aisle. Naturally, even from our well chosen seats, she was completely un-viewable. Luckily, the two seats to the left of us were empty, which enabled us to scoot down and give us a glimpse of our daughter.

If we leaned to the left.

I apologize to the lady sitting to my left, I really am not trying to get up in your personal space.

Here is my tiny songstress, singing her little lungs out. And to the right is the giant piano, that always causes problems.

Dang piano.

Happy Hump Day. Middle of the week already!

Good Enough

2013-04-30T08:47:00.001-04:00

When I was in eighth grade, my Language Arts teacher had a poster that hung above her chalkboard. It read,

"Good enough, is NEVER good enough."

I didn't really get it, until she explained how much she disliked when students would ask if something was "good enough." She continued with, "If you have ask if something is "good enough," it isn't."

Isn't that so very true?

I never forgot that moment, even though it was (gasp) twenty years ago. That year, I'm certain I learned many important lessons, but that is the one I remember. The one I took with me.

Since that day, and now being a mommy, I've realized how much I also dislike those words. I don't like it when they are asked about homework, about cleaning a bedroom, weeding the yard or anything. They represent work done half-heartedly, which drives me nutty. If it's worth doing, do it right and do it well.

What a tough lesson to teach my kids. It's a difficult line to walk, the line between doing the job right and your child feeling like you're a total drag, or even worse, that they aren't "good enough."

Ugh, those words.

I'm on my kids about manners, and keeping their rooms tidy. They have to finish homework and read before bed. I stick with gentle reminders, since I understand how overwhelming remembering everything can be. I'm lucky if I remember my underpants.

With my reminders, I remind them to do the job well. Write neatly, shake hands firmly and keep that laundry folded when it goes in the drawer. My kids don't have to be perfect; they have to work hard. I want them to show effort, to leave everything they touch better because they were there.

There is no asking if anything is "good enough." Do your best and leave your mark. Anything worth doing is worth doing well.

Even hugging your mama.

Have a fab Tuesday everyone, make it wonderful!

Where Have all the Soap Operas Gone?

2013-04-29T07:00:00.000-04:00

Growing up I have many memories of my mother sitting at the edge of our kitchen counter, lunch in front of her, watching All My Children from one to two every afternoon. She was hooked on the trials and tribulations of everyone in Pine Valley, and still to this day loves Erica Cane.

Naturally, as I got older, I became hooked as well. I remember one summer, when I was in seventh or eighth grade, I was glued to the television alongside her every afternoon. These were the days of Palmer and Opal, Erica and Dimitri and my all time favorites, Tad and Dixie.

When school started in September, I set a VHS to record All my Children. I watched every day after school. I can't remember when Tad and Dixie were heating up, but I do remember one particular episode that my mom picked me up from school early to watch with her. We were beyond addicted to the crazy story-lines and extravagant characters.

I was heartbroken when after nearly 42 years, All my Children went off the air in 2011. I felt it was the end of an era, a time when women indulged in soap operas that were so unbelievable they provided a mid-day escape from hectic lifestyles.

The good news is that All My Children, and One Life to Live, are returning on Hulu and Hulu Plus starting April 29th. The all new episodes will be 30 minutes long, and many of the original cast members will return. Hulu makes watching and enjoying your favorite shows easy, and the service is FREE. Sign up online, and you can watch the latest episodes on your computer.

Hulu Plus is $7.99/month, and it makes watching your favorite programs easier than ever. You can stream shows through game consoles, laptops, ipads and even smartphones. Imagine the convenience of watching your favorite shows on-the-go, never missing an episode because you can't get home in time to watch? Hulu Plus also offers full access to their online library, which features complete series episodes of top television hits. Best yet? You can try it for free for one week by signing up online here.

I'm excited to tune in and get lost in the lives of all my favorite Pine Valley characters from the past, and the new characters set to join the show. Watching and caring for four kids all day is mentally exhausting, and I need "me time" to unwind and recharge. Thanks to Hulu, I will be enjoying All My Children again, one of my ultimate guilty pleasures from the past!

For a chance to win a free one year subscription to Hulu Plus, comment below and tell us:

Which characters do you miss the most from the old show?

Don't forget to comment below because one grand prize winner will also win a Roku!

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Challenges

2013-04-26T08:54:00.001-04:00

I'm tired today. The moving adrenaline is waning and life is returning to normal. We have homework, laundry, activities and new after school routines.

We have new before school routines.

Actually, we have new routines from sun up until sun down. It's a lot to get used to. Along with the adjustment of new routines, I have to adjust my parenting style once again because I have kids in different stages of moving acceptance. I've been blessed so far, since all my kids have been rolling with the punches. They've met new friends, joined new teams and they're enjoying life in the country.

But there are times they need more from me, and it's tough to tell when they need it. One minute we're all smiles, the next we're feeling uncertain and missing friends. I don't think anyone who is not a parent could ever understand what parenting entails. It's mentally challenging, physically challenging and most of all, emotionally challenging.

Is this the right thing to say? Is this what he/she needs? How do I help? How do I fix this? Should I try to fix this?

There are constant questions. You never know what is best, and even when you think you know you second guess it until the outcome appears.

That could take years.

We try to do what will benefit our kids in the long run. We try to envision what will be best, even if it's not easy. We try to hold our brains and wits together even when we have no brains and wits left. The finish line is never, and it's tough to explain how much we love it and how much we need five minutes alone.

This parenting stuff is not for the faint of heart.

Cheer to all the parents out there. I think I need a nap, and to set up a few carpools. Oh, toss in some new curtains. Starbucks anyone?

And then I shall continue to adjust to the new routines in our new house in our new town.

Happy Friday. So glad it's here!

Single Mommy-hood

2013-04-24T14:46:00.002-04:00

Before everyone gets their knickers in a twist, I'm not single. I am still married, still settling in the country and still madly in love with my heated blanket.

Let's move on.

Hubby's current job, the one that brought us to Pennsylvania, forced us to adjust to a living situation that we weren't accustomed to. For five months, Hubby lived all week in Pennsylvania, and I stayed in New York with the kids. He drove home on the weekends, but I did all the parenting Monday thru Friday, 24 hours a day.

I must admit, I didn't mind. Yes, it took a lot of planning and patience. But I did have help from my mother (bless her heart) and friends. I also love being home with the kids which made this adjustment easier on me. Living here in Pennsylvania, Hubby travels more than he did when we lived in New York. I have him here most of the time, but there are days he is away in North Carolina, or Maryland, or who knows where he goes.

Needless to say I'm still good with doing the parenting. But it is exhausting. There's a lot of driving and planning ahead. There is also a lot of Starbucks.

I don't even talk to Hubby much when he is away because there is little time. Whenever he is able to talk, it's either breakfast/bus time, feed toddler/naptime or the dreaded after school through bedtime. After I am finished with all the time slots, I am tired and ready for television and dessert.

Most times I just skip dinner.

The point of this post is to send a HUGE shout out to single moms everywhere. I get it. And it's not easy. Cheers to you and all your hard work. You are an inspiration to us all.

Chocolate CHOCOLATE Chip Cookies

2013-04-23T08:19:00.001-04:00

Warning: DO NOT make these cookies unless you love chocolate.

They are chocolate-y.

If you underbake them just a tad, like I prefer to do, they are fully of gooey goodness. If you don't underbake them, they have a "cake-like" consistency. I feel it's a win-win. I am not a fan of the crunchy cookie. I know many who are, it just ain't my style.

Anyhow, I feel these are very well suited for an after school treat. Or you could bake them and bring them to a Spring picnic or party. Even better just do what I do, which is bake them and set them on your counter, and eat one every time you walk by.

Whatever floats your chocolate-loving boat.

1 cup salted butter, soft

1 1/2 cups white sugar

2 eggs

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

2 cups chocolate chips

Optional add in: 1 cup chopped walnuts

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 5-8 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time and mix to incorporate. Add the vanilla and mix thoroughly.

3. In a 1 gallon plastic food bag, place the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cocoa powder. Seal the bag and massage the ingredients to combine.

4. Add the flour and cocoa mix to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix together until the dough appears completely combined (approx 3 min). Add chocolate chips (and walnuts, if desired) and stir them into the dough. Drop by tablespoons onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Or roll into balls, place about two inches apart on the sheet, and flatten slightly with your fingers.

5. Bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies will appear to be just barely firm. I highly recommend underbaking just enough for the center to be a tad undone. Let cookies sit and set on cookie sheet and extra 2 minutes before transferring to wire rack.

Eat one fresh and gooey. When cookies cool the gooey centers will become soft, chewy and heavenly.

Once cool, store in airtight containers.

*This is a worthwhile repost. I'm still unpacking over here. ;) *

Country Livin'

2013-04-20T21:29:00.000-04:00

I've been sleeping in my new house, in a rural area of Pennsylvania, for just about a week now. There are still boxes to be unpacked and I haven't yet acclimated to the smell of fresh manure.

As with everything, it will take time to adjust.

The past few days, as I've been traveling around my new town and surrounding areas, I've realized the pace here is slower than what I'm used to. It feels good. There is less hustle and bustle, and I can't say I've met anyone who really cares what you drive or what you're wearing.

Speaking of what people wear, "camo" is rather popular round these parts.

Tonight, after two rather exciting little league games, we stopped at a drive in restaurant for "supper." We ate grilled cheese "baskets" and ordered ice cream to go. The restaurant was filled with little kids in uniforms and cleats, and older couples having dinner. The atmosphere was laid back, and the food was inexpensive.

When we arrived home, there was fresh sausage in the freezer. Puzzled, I asked Hubby where the sausage came from? He told me the neighbor left it on the deck. He knew this because a friend came to mow our lawn as a "housewarming" gift while we were at little league. Knowing we still need a tractor, he drove his truck over, loaded with his tractor, and perfectly mowed our acre of property. As he was mowing, the farmer across the street dropped of fresh sausage.

Really?

I must admit, I could get used to this. I'm thrilled to say the kids are adjusting fabulously as well. I feel like I can finally breathe and begin to enjoy the scenery. And the people. And the fresh sausage.

Country livin' ain't half bad. As a matter of fact, it's pretty awesome.

Wishing everyone a wonderful Sunday, and an even better week ahead!

New-ness

2013-04-18T14:22:00.000-04:00

We're here. We walked through the back door of our new home Monday and we've been settling in ever since. Along with our new address, we have new schools, new stores, new friends and a new phone number. We have new bath mats and towels, new neighbors and new sports teams.

There is a lot of "new-ness" going on around here.

This week, I've been cleaning, sorting and unpacking. I've also been trying to navigate myself and my kids to where we need to go. My brain looks a lot like this:

There is much to get used to, and it's been an adventure thus far. Living in the country is a nice change of pace. Definitely good for the blood pressure. I think I'll even get used to the aroma of manure before the end of the summer.

All we need is a drive-thru Starbucks and I'll be good.

Hope everyone is having a grand week. Cheers, it's almost the weekend!

Keep Calm and Carry On

2013-04-13T14:04:00.002-04:00

It's official. This move is the hardest thing I have had to do since becoming a parent. It may be the hardest thing I've had to do ever. It's not easy to keep marching, keep moving, keep smiling even when you know the road is long. It's a challenge to keep calm and reassure your kids over and over and over again....especially when you are struggling with the answers yourself.

Uncertainty is a difficult state of mind. I've told my kids they will make friends and play on teams and that in a year they will be okay. But the truth is, I can't be certain of any of that. I can only keep marching, keep reassuring and guide my kids where they need to go.

The rest is up to them.

Yesterday was our last day at our elementary school, middle school and gymnastics team. I "see ya later-ed"dozens of friends and packed up dozens of boxes. I watched my kids hug dear friends and I unpacked backpacks filled with handmade cards.

Some kids even bought them presents.

To anyone who has ever navigated kids through a difficult transition, I understand the pain. I understand the sadness and the exhaustion. I also understand that we can't stay in the same place forever.

We all move on to new places eventually. And we never know what is around the bend when we move on, it's all about taking that leap of faith. It's about doing what is best, not always what is easy.

Well, we're leaping. We're keeping calm and carrying on, and we have faith in the road ahead.

Happy trails. I'll see you all in a few days.

Peanut Butter Bon Bons

2013-04-11T10:40:00.001-04:00

I am re-posting this recipe because I love to eat bon bons. It's that simple. My love affair with peanut butter bon bons started years ago, and it's safe to say I'm still quite passionate about them.

I concocted this recipe by just mixing three ingredients: Krispy rice, confectioner sugar, and peanut butter. I adjusted the amounts until it was the perfect amount of crisp and the perfect amount of cream.

The toughest part of making these bon bons is that your hands will get tired and quite sticky. Have your pans lined and everything within reach to insure you don't get peanut butter smeared fridge and cabinet handles.

Mommyhood's Gut Bomb Bon Bons (makes approx 24)

Line cookie sheet with wax paper, set aside.

5 cups krispy rice cereal
1 1/2 cups peanut butter (I use all natural creamy)
1 1/2 cups confectioner's sugar
1 23oz bag milk chocolate chips

Combine first 3 ingredients in large bowl.

With hands, mix mixture until it is light and crumbly. Your hands will get very sticky, and it will require scraping peanut butter off fingers and crunching krispies. If you are having trouble because it is too crumbly add peanut butter. Keep at it until mixture looks like this:

Mold the mixture into balls the size of golf balls. This is when your hands will tire. I guarantee it. Work through and keep your eyes on the prize.

Place bon bons on lined cookie sheet, about 1 inch apart. Before you finish molding all the bon bons, make a giant baseball sized one for yourself. You'll thank me later.

Chill bon bons in fridge as you melt your chocolate.

I have a Treat Dipper, which is an excellent tool to melt chocolate easily. If you plan on making any treats that require melted chocolate, I highly recommend one of these. Makes life extremely easy. I love easy.

If you are melting chocolate in the microwave, place all but 1/2 cup chips in a sturdy glass bowl. Microwave on high for 30 second intervals. Check and stir chips after each interval. Once chips are 90% melted, remove and add in 1/2 cup chips. Stir until chocolate is completely melted. Should be smooth and creamy, and drip from fork or spoon.

After your chocolate is melted, dip bon bons one at a time and place back on cold cookie sheet. I use a spoon to handle and dip the bon bons.

Place the bon bons back in the fridge to set the chocolate. After you are finished cleaning up your kitchen (or before, whatever floats your boat) grab that giant softball shaped bon bon and an ice cold beverage. My friends eat these with milk, but I'm an aspartame girl.

Enjoy! And make sure to hide some for yourself...these will be gone once word gets out they are in the fridge!

Next Stop, Pennsylvania

2013-04-09T12:33:00.000-04:00

For the first time in a long while, I am feeling good about our move. I'm not saying I felt "bad" about it, just sad. I spent many moments wondering what the future held and worrying how my kids would handle this huge transition. There was a lot to digest and to experience before I could wrap my head around moving my kids to a new state.

Because as all moms know, all that matters is my kids.

These past few weeks, we've been able to say goodbye to friends and spend time with faces we will miss greatly. I feel we've been gaining closure as each day passes. With a closing date set, and a last day at school set, my kids are understanding this move is happening. Soon.

I may be completely delusional (okay, I am most days), but I think the kids are feeling better about this move as each day passes. They know this isn't goodbye, just "see ya later. " They know there are more friends to be made and more teams to play on. It's easy to get stuck in one place, believing there is no place else to be. But the truth is, change is constant. And I need to believe that this move will open their eyes to new people, new experiences and that it will give them the tools they need to navigate all the changes they have ahead of them.

Life will take them many places. Pennsylvania is one stop on a long road. My oldest is eleven, and he emailed all his teachers about his last day. His favorite teacher emailed back words that stuck with me. And with him.

"You are going places. And I'm honored to have been a small stop on your journey."

Our journeys are long. There will be many stops along the way. And this move is just another transition as we continue to see what life has in store for us.

To my dear friends who have helped us throughout these last few months, thank you. And to our dear friends we have in Pennsylvania, let's get this party started.

One more week to go. Wish us luck!

How to Make Wood Pictures

2013-04-07T12:48:00.002-04:00

A few months ago, I saw these wooden pictures on Pinterest. I thought about making them about a dozen times before I pulled the trigger and tried them. The good news, they are super easy. The bad news? I am totally addicted. I can already see every wall in my new house decorated with wooden pictures of just about anything and everyone I know.

I made wooden picture boxes with unfinished boxes I found on clearance for $0.90/piece. Transferring the pictures was easy and painless, and the results were extraordinary.

1. Before you begin, grab or purchase from a craft store whatever wood you will be using, and print the pictures you would like to transfer onto paper.

Use a LASER PRINTER. This works best. I went plain old black and white. Obviously, you need to print a good quality picture and make certain the size works for your project.

You also need gel medium, modge pod and foam brushes.

2. Line your workspace with newspaper, since gel mediums and modge pod can be messy. Trim your pictures as you like and make sure everything will fit nicely on wood surface.

3. Using foam brush, cover surface of wood with gel medium. Turn printed picture picture side down and press firmly, removing all bubbles. Just a reminder, all text will be backwards on finished project unless you print mirror images.

4. Let dry overnight.

5. The next morning, wet surface with water. You will need to saturate the paper, and using a sponge or your fingers, rub paper gently until it breaks apart.

You will be left with an image on your wood. Amazing.

6. Allow to dry, and use a foam sponge to apply modge pod over entire surface to finish your project, I used glossy modge pod, any finish works great.

These projects are great for gifts, sleepovers and home decor. The possibilities are endless.

Happy crafting!

What I Really Think of Kale

2013-04-04T14:08:00.001-04:00

Over Easter, my lovely sister was home from Chicago. She is hip and single and in her 20's. She has an apartment, goes to the gym and eats things like kale.

Yes, kale.

I have read about kale in all those dozens of health articles on Yahoo. It's a superfood, one of those foods super rich in nutrients that is packed with health benefits.

I never, ever considered eating it. I figured I'd stick to blueberries and sweet potatoes. Two other superfoods that are much more my style.

Today for lunch I decided on a salad. After enjoying a venti Frappuccino for breakfast (it was fabulous) and knowing I am eating ice cream tonight (I decide important matters ahead of time), I knew something light and healthy was necessary.

As I was digging through my mom's fridge, I saw it. My sister's giant bag of kale.

I added a few handfuls of kale in between my carrots, romaine, tomatoes and bacon bits. While it wasn't awful, it wasn't anything to write home about. I'm pretty sure the bacon bits salvaged the salad. Without them and the delicious balsamic, the kale tasted like lettuce, only "leafier."

I will also add that if you eat crap like kale all day, I wish you the body of Jillian Michaels.

You deserve it.

If anyone saw the interview with Jennie Garth recently about losing 40 lbs at 40, she mentioned how much she loves beets.

Huh? Really?

Jennie, enjoy your beets. You deserve to look awesome if that's what you're eating these days. With summer approaching, I'll amp up my nonexistent running program, and I will stick to blueberries, sweet pototaoes and ice cream.

Oh, and Frappuccinos.

Kale is for the birds. Literally.

Cheers, it's almost Friday!

Walt Disney World Summer Deals

2013-04-02T12:32:00.000-04:00

I wanted to share for all my Disney families out there. After all, I'm here to help.

Disney loves to entice families to brave the Orlando summer heat by offering excellent deals June through mid-August. While it's not free dining (boo!), here is the latest and greatest from Disney World.

If you book through Destinations in Florida before 4/12, you will receive a free autograph book OR lanyard for every child in your family. Zip a dee doo dah!

Happy Planning!

Save up to 30% on rooms at SELECT Walt Disney World Resort Hotels for most stays: 30 % savings on Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts, lesser discount on Moderate and Value Resorts

6/13-8/14/2013

Add tickets to make it a package and save even more, when you add a minimum 4 day Magic Your Way Ticket.

This offer EXCLUDES Campsites, 3 Bedrooom Villas and is not valid on Little Mermaid Rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort, Coronado Springs Suites and Port Orleans French Quarter

30% Discount: Saratoga Springs, Old Key West, Boardwalk Villas, Bay Lake Tower, Polynesian, Grand Floridian, Contemporary, Yacht & Beach Club, Boardwalk Inn, Animal Kingdom Lodge

20% Discount- Villas at Wilderness Lodge, Wilderness Lodge, Coronado Springs, Caribbean Beach, Port Orleans-Riverside, Fort Wilderness Cabins

15% Discount- All Star Movies, All Star Music, POP Century & Art of Animation Family Suites

5% Discount- Villas at Animal Kingdom Lodge, All Star Movies

Don't delay this is a very limited Summer offer!

"The Clothes"

2013-04-01T11:36:00.002-04:00

Happy belated Easter to all. The sun is shining bright and we've cracked 45 degrees here in New York State. Ah, the sun on my face has felt extraordinary.

Today, I'm shipping out a few boxes to a wonderful friend. For the past decade, four women (myself, my sister-in-law, one of my best friends from childhood and her very dear older sister) have traded and saved all of our maternity clothes. This tradition began after I had my oldest two munchkins, and my sister-in-law was pregnant with her first.

I packed up all my maternity clothes (as friends do) and sent them her way. What happened next was the beginning of a fabulous, economical system of clothes rotation. She added to my clothes, and when one of my best friends from childhood got pregnant, we sent them to her. She then added what she bought to the bins, and sent them back to me. When her sister got pregnant with her first, we sent the bins to her. Then they went back to my sister-in-law. And then back to my friend, and then me, and, well, you get the idea.

What we have now is bags and bags of maternity clothes. With all the trading and saving, anytime one of us gets pregnant whoever had the bins of maternity wear last must pass them on.

The bins and bags have become known to all of us as "the clothes." I have had many calls that sound just like this,

"Who has "the clothes"?

Last night, I went through four large bags of "the clothes" in preparation to send them off today to the latest expecting mom. For the record, it is NOT me or my sister-in-law.

I weeded out anything with stains, anything that was discolored or fraying, and anything that was so old it looked like a rag (we've been trading for over ten years now). What is left is two large bags of fabulous tanks, tops, jeans, swimsuits and dresses.

Today, these goodies ship out and the tradition of "the clothes" continues.

After all, sharing is caring.

Happy Monday. Happy Spring. Happy everything to everyone reading. Much love to you!