Mommy Only Has 2 Hands

Top 5 Apps To Keep Your Kids Safe

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Sat, 18 May 2013 09:38:00 PDT

Raising children is probably the toughest job in the world, with new challenges arising every now and then. One of the biggest worries for parents is that they can lose their children when they are unsupervised. To have this situation averted, and to keep an eye on the under-aged children all the time, parents are advised to take the advantage of the latest technology. With their smartphones parents are able to know the whereabouts of their children, when they are not with them. Not only such apps keep the parents updated, but also help them to have a better idea about their children’s lives and likes.

mSpy
This app is one of the leading apps that help parents all over to keep an eye on their kids. Designed for child monitoring, mSpy lets the parents to track the phones of their children through GPS and records, including phone calls, messages, media files and web browsing history. Many parents have found this absolutely effective to protect their children from communication with objectionable people and from going to places inappropriate for them. mSpy will keep the parents notified regularly and keep all the records for them to check anytime.

SygicFamily
This is another great app developed to keep families protected. Besides providing with location tracking options, what this app does uniquely is showing the battery levels of the phone it is installed on. So, if their phone is switched off, parents can be assured when it truly is because of battery down. Thus parents can easily know if children are hiding anything or if they are in any troubles.

Google Latitude
Where all the other apps mentioned in this list provide with a package of all the child monitoring facilities, Google Latitude specializes in tracking locations. This is particularly handy when parents want to track the location of their children but do not know how to get in there. Since this app shows the location in a detailed map, it becomes a trouble-free thing for the parents to get to their children.

MobileKids
This app can be a too far-fetched one; but who knows, such an overly protective app can come to some help in special cases. For the parents who seek a highly involving way to supervise and watch over their kid, this app could be just the thing. This app literally alerts the parents of every move of their children done through their phones: like when they install any new app, use their phone during the late hours at night, are in contact with strangers - everything will be messaged to the parents instantly. Since this is one extremely “nosy” app, parents should think before installing if their kid really requires such monitoring.

mamaBear
Well, the name of the app is pretty self-explanatory. Just like a mama bear, it lets mamas and dads be notified of the activities the kids may be having. The app is basically famous for its option to let the mama bears out there to have a full record of what the kids are doing online. From their social media feeds to personal messages, parents will be able to know what the kids are going through.
Post by Linda Waters. Marketing executive at mspy.com. Blogger who writes on mobile-driven tech innovations (especially, mobile tracking apps) and their advantages for parents.

Post by Linda Waters. Marketing executive at mspy.com. Blogger who writes on mobile-driven tech innovations (especially, mobile tracking apps) and their advantages for parents.

Blogger Op: Keurig Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Fri, 17 May 2013 19:22:00 PDT

Come and be part of these great giveaway

Giveaway dates:

July 1 to July 22

Keurig K75 Platinum Single-Cup Coffeemaker + Bonus 12 K-cup variety pack

Value $179

Available in 3 colors:

Midnight Black

Platinum

Mocha

US Only

Prizes will be ordered and shipped from keurig.com

Here are the details to sign up:

-Free Link (Twitter or Pinterest)

The first 50 bloggers to sign up will get a link free with announcement.

Announcement is require or you have to pay a waver fee of $5.00

Please get your announcement here.

(Please read the sign up form on the top to know if we still have free space available)

-Link/ or extra links $3.00 each (if the free spots are gone, to be part of this giveaway you will need to pay $3.00 for each link you want on the giveaway)

Announcement is require or you have to pay a waver fee of $5.00.

Please get your announcement here.

-Co-Host $15.00

The co-host get 2 host page.

10 links on the RC.

No announcement require.

Please send payment to melisurveys1978@gmail.com as a gift.

Sign up here

Author: Heather Wife, Mother of Two Boys, Coffee Addict, Pinterest obsessed, an aspiring writer balancing every day life of raising a family and blogging about it. If you like what you just read, consider casting a one click vote ;)

The Weekend Blog Post Showcase!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Fri, 17 May 2013 05:09:00 PDT

How many times have you participated in a blog hop and had someone come over to your heartfelt blog post and simply say "Hi, I'm following you from such and such blog, please follow back" ?

Well lets try to get a little deeper.

You spent a lot of time writing that post and you want more than a Hey I'm following you, follow me back comment don't you?

This blog hop is for sharing your heartfelt blog posts that you'd like more recognition for. This is not to gain followers, its simply to enjoy what we all like most, good blogging, good reads and sharing. Think of this as a show and tell hop. Grab your cup of coffee and be prepared for some good reads! :)

What are the rules?
1. Link up your "BLOG POST", something you've written from the week, not a giveaway or an advertisement or a link to the current coupons out there. They will be deleted. (Not against them, but this linky is not what its for.)
2. Visit a blog post on the linky that you plan to spend time on and actually read their post to give a heartfelt comment back.
3. Put the Hop Button in your post or sidebar if you plan to participate.

That is it!

This hop will start on Thursdays/Fridays and last all weekend long. Yes you can link up more than one post from the week, or any time really, just be reasonable, don't be a linky hog.

<a href="http://www.mommyonlyhas2hands.org/search/label/weekend%20showcase" target="_blank"></a>

Parenting: When Its Best To Step Aside

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Thu, 16 May 2013 19:55:00 PDT

Tonight is supposed to be review night and I had it all lined up to write a lovely review for this awesome HP Officejet Pro 8600 printer, but I realized I didn't have all the stuff together I needed for a proper review, like photo paper so I can show how well it prints photos. I'm really excited to share this printer with you, but that will wait until Tuesday. Tuesdays and Thursday evenings are my office nights away from the kids. So since I couldn't get that going, I will just ramble here, actually I'll talk about what we discovered with J during soccer.

Hunky Hubs and I discovered since Sunday, (J's last soccer game) that we would stop yelling instructions at him from the sidelines. When your child is in an organized sport, or in a contest for something, you want to cheer and coach right along with the coaches, and I think we realized that J does better when we are quiet and let the coaches do their job. J Myster, being the youngest on the team is often found counting weeds, looking at kids on different fields playing soccer, standing there with his shirt over his head, or running in a circle while his teammates are running after the ball. Both Hunky Hubs and I would look at each other thinking, why won't he at least chase after the thing like he does at home.

We got him his own soccer net and he kicks his ball into that net at home and does great! But with his teammates, that's a different story.

We yell at him from the sidelines, "J get the ball", "J kick the ball", J run!!" He's the last one after the ball and often just chases his teammates. With that being said, there are two other boys on the team that tend to be powerhouses and kick the ball so far that its in other team's fields, and they also fight with each other and get pretty distracted themselves. So distraction is kind of normal when you are coaching a bunch of four and five year olds, but I have to say on the team, all the girls are perfect little players. They listen to their coach. Go figure! The boys however are off in la la land!

Anyway I've decided that during practices and games, I will keep my mouth shut. I am not going to yell at him from the sidelines anymore. I am going to sit there and let him be coached, and if he goes off into la la land, I am going to let the coach deal with it. Well tonight, it worked! I should have known he'd listen so much better to his coaches than he would to mom and dad. He kicked the ball twice tonight and ran after it! He also listened to his assistant coach during drills and followed as best as he could. So now Hunky Hubs and I will be sure to cheer and step in when appropriate, but really just sit back and let the kid be coached. I don't know if its just that I've always micromanaged him, but I've definitely realized how much more he pays attention when I step aside.

As a parent when do you find it the hardest to step aside and let your children make mistakes or learn something without your involvement?

The MOHTH OnGoing Giveaway Linky

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Thu, 16 May 2013 05:02:00 PDT

Hi Bloggy Friends,

Here you can find and list your own giveaways on the On Going MOHTH Giveaway linky list. I will clean up the list each week of old giveaways, so please be sure to put an end date on your giveaways so they are not purged early. Every Thursday a few of the giveaways will be facebooked and tweeted to help spread the word.

Respectful Suggestions:
You do not have to enter any giveaways on this list, but to help people on this list, tweet the person's giveaway right above yours on the linky. Or use the tweet this button below, don't want to tweet it, add a button to your side bar or giveaway post page.

BUTTON:

<a href="http://www.mommyonlyhas2hands.org/p/mohth-on-going-giveway-linky.html" target="_blank"></a>

Submit your giveaways like this: "Title/ End Date" example: Skin Peel Giveaway 8/11
If you don't put an end date on it, I will prune the list and your link could be deleted before your giveaway is over.

That's it!!

Flattenme Personalized Children's Book

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Tue, 14 May 2013 20:18:00 PDT

J Myster recently got a book that was completely personalized to him. He was so excited about it and it came with a little stuffed animal too and he has grown attached to the stuffed animal and sleeps with it at night. But I thought that maybe Baby B should have his own personalized book, and since he stays up later than J myster does, I thought it might be good to start laying down the same reading routine with B, that I did with J. But my boys are completely different from each other. J myster loves books! He can get lost in them, and make up his own story to the pictures he sees. B on the other hand, thinks books are great for throwing, knocking off shelves, or chewing on. He's 17 months old, so while B is still learning about the value of books, J's love for books started when he was 6 months old. He loved when mama read to him, and maybe B doesn't have that love yet because I haven't spent enough time reading to him as I did with J myster. This is why I want to establish this night time reading routine, and hopefully it will help him love books like his brother does.

Flattenme.com specializes in personalized books, cards, wall art and t-shirts and Baby B got this lovely book called Owl Always Love You.

This book is personalized just for him and this book will stay up on a high shelf until he is old enough to appreciate the book and prove he can show books love. In the mean time I can enjoy reading this beautiful book to him at bedtime.

Personalized With His Name!

Just like J myster's special personalized book, this book reads the same with the most beautiful pictures throughout. You can also write a dedication on the inside. For B, we wrote, "Sleep Tight Braiden, Mommy and Daddy Love You!" This would be great as a gift, especially from an Aunt or Uncle or from Grandparents!

The book poetically and softly tells the story of a loving parent telling their little one all the ways they are loved, while at the same time telling that little one that its ok to go to sleep. This is a great way to get little ones to settle down before bed and to love story time.

The pictures are absolutely beautiful!

Here's a little more about Flattenme.com and how to personalize your books:

Books have always held a special place in my heart and I feel that books like these get kids excited to read! I'm so glad to now have two personalized books for my kids. Its something they can keep forever. I'm happy to be able to teach a love of reading to my little ones. Its so important these days with all the technological gadgets out there, to stop what you are doing and read a book to your kids.

So I've teamed up with Flattenme to give one lucky reader the chance to personalize their own book for a special child in their life. This giveaway is open to those 18 years and older in the U.S. Good Luck!!

Also just for being a reader, you can get a 10 percent discount on a book using the code: "Owl10" thru May 31st.

(Must Have javascript enabled to enter giveaway on form below)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Beautiful Lila Rose Flexi Clip

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Tue, 14 May 2013 15:23:00 PDT

Its not often that I get to do nice things with my hair, but when I do, I get excited! I tend to throw on some capri shorts a tank top and put my hair in a pony tail and I'm out the door with my boys, so when I got the opportunity to dress up and wear a nice barrette in my hair for a Mother's Day brunch celebration with my gal pals from the mom group, it was wonderful! Most of my barrettes have no real design to them and they are the cheap ones you get at Walgreens or Walmart, nothing fancy like this...or unique.

At brunch, while at Josephines, a popular fine dining restaurant a few Sundays ago, I had so many nice compliments about it and can't wait to wear it again!

I sported this beautiful Lila Rose Dragonfly flexi clip.

I love how unique it is and that Lila Rose has so many to choose from! Just check it out! Here are a couple more that I think are beautiful!

Purple Stone Cluster Flexi Clip

Sea Turtle Flexi Clip

Lila Rose makes these flexi clips in three different sizes, small medium and large and the one I am sporting in the picture at the top is a large flexi clip. If you aren't sure what size to get, Lila Rose has a sizing chart to help with that here. And if you rarely wear your hair up, no worries, they have instructional videos for 8 different beautiful hairstyles. Having long hair, I love seeing how to wear my hair differently, instead of just throwing it in a ponytail, although if you did, one of these beautiful flexi clips would make a simple ponytail look amazing.

This is one of my favorite hairstyles shown and I can't wait to try it myself. Its called the "Up and Down" and seems like an easy way to keep my hair out of the way. Sometimes with little ones you want your hair out of the way because its constantly being pulled, but having it out of the way, and beautiful, is a definite a plus!

So if you are interested in wining yourself one of these flexi clips, or any of the other Lila Rose hair products, please like my facebook fan page because I will be hosting a fan page Lila Rose party on Tuesday May 21st. You may RSVP to the event here.

The Hump Day Blog & Social Media Link Up

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Tue, 14 May 2013 15:00:00 PDT

Happy Hump Day!!

...and rest assured, because its all down hill from here. In a good way!

Welcome Back to a Mid Week Link up where you can link up everything you got, including your giveaways. Make sure they go on the right linkies below.

EVERYONE WHO LINKS UP WILL HAVE A CHANCE TO CO-HOST!

3. It would be nice if you displayed the button in your post or blog sidebar to help spread the word.

And Most of All, have a Happy Hump Day!

 <a href="http://mommyonlyhas2hands.org/search/label/Hump%20Day" target="_blank"></a>

Our Co-Host This Week Is:
Jen Loves Life

My Life Via Instagram Link Up

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Tue, 14 May 2013 04:57:00 PDT

Do you love snapping photos! Then this meme is for you! Much like Wordless Wednesday, but you can explain your photos if you so like. Happy Instagraming, here are a few of mine!

Walnut Canyon Lakes...

Loving the ducks...

Right before it rained.

A nice walk...

Brotherhood...

If you instragram, make a post of your instagrams from webstagram and share them with us!

Follow me on Instagram, tell me you are following me on Instagram and I will follow back.

Every Tues-Thurs

Mother's Day Blessings

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Mon, 13 May 2013 09:58:00 PDT

We had a super busy weekend once again. Most weekends these days are super busy, but I am hoping and praying come June, we'll just be able to have weekends hanging at home, not working on anything, or going anywhere.

It is nice to be busy though sometimes. This weekend we went to a friend's birthday party for her one year old. It was cute watching the kids hit a pinata. There's something about a one year old diving into a cake covered in chocolate frosting that makes you smile. We also did other odds and ends around the house and a little gardening, but we aren't going to really do anything in front of the house until after the house is painted.

This weekend, Hunky Hubs went off with JJ to find me a Mother's day gift. I don't wear expensive jewelry. The most expensive jewelry I own, is probably my high school class ring and then my wedding ring, which I never take off, but I was excited to see a lovely piece of jewelry that expresses me so thoroughly.

I'm a mom...and forever will be.

This necklace represents mother and child and it was from my husband and I found out that J Myster picked it out, and I think it is perfect.

I am loved by my beautiful children and amazing husband!

Hope you had a fantastic Mother's Day!

The Weekend Blog Post Showcase

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Fri, 10 May 2013 05:07:00 PDT

How many times have you participated in a blog hop and had someone come over to your heartfelt blog post and simply say "Hi, I'm following you from such and such blog, please follow back" ?

Well lets try to get a little deeper.

You spent a lot of time writing that post and you want more than a Hey I'm following you, follow me back comment don't you?

<a href="http://www.mommyonlyhas2hands.org/search/label/weekend%20showcase" target="_blank"></a>

The MOHTH OnGoing Giveaway Linky

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Thu, 09 May 2013 05:01:00 PDT

<a href="http://www.mommyonlyhas2hands.org/p/mohth-on-going-giveway-linky.html" target="_blank"></a>

Chose Our House Colors!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Tue, 07 May 2013 13:43:00 PDT

Today I went over to Sherwin Williams to choose colors for the house. Last week I chose colors online, got to the store and purchased paint samples of the colors, and they were nothing like I had imagined. Make a special note if you are picking paint colors, do not trust your computer screen. The blue I thought I was getting for the house, turned out to be a minty green color. No thank you, the Dark blue color I thought would be great for our shutters, turned out to be alligator swamp green....also a no thank you.

I've always wanted to live in a blue house with bright white trim, and now we'll have that chance! So I had narrowed down each section that is being painted to three colors each. Went to the paint store and figured out then, which color was best.

So here we are:

You say Heather I love the blue, but what's up with that red door?

Here is why I chose a red door:

A red door is special! It doesn't matter what the color of the rest of the house is, but in Christianity, a red door represents that the blood of Christ has been smeared on it and that the area beyond the door is holy and sacred, being a Christian this is important to me.

Also, according to the Old Testament, the Jewish slaves in Egypt smeared their doors with lambs blood as a sign that the required sacrifice had already been made, and those homes would be passed over by the Angel of Vengence.

Supposedly red doors were used as part of the Underground Railroad, and homes with red doors were "safe houses".

A red door means "welcome".

In Feng Shui, a red door symbolizes the mouth of the home. By painting our door red (or any bright colour that stands out) chi (positive energy) is drawn to the house. It is the entry point in which abundance and opportunities find us.

The Chinese consider red to be the lucky or sacred colour. Many doors are painted with a fresh coat of red just before Chinese New Year to invite good luck and happiness.

In Ireland, a red door is supposed to ward off ghosts and evil spirits.

I am so very excited to get our house painted. Its all I can think about!

The Hump Day Hop Blog & Social Media Link Up!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Tue, 07 May 2013 12:00:00 PDT

Happy Hump Day!!

EVERYONE WHO LINKS UP WILL HAVE A CHANCE TO CO-HOST!

3. It would be nice if you displayed the button in your post or blog sidebar to help spread the word.

And Most of All, have a Happy Hump Day!

 <a href="http://mommyonlyhas2hands.org/search/label/Hump%20Day" target="_blank"></a>

Our Co-Host This Week Is:
Shana From:

My Life Via Instagram Link Up

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Tue, 07 May 2013 04:53:00 PDT

Do you love snapping photos! Then this meme is for you! Much like Wordless Wednesday, but you can explain your photos if you so like. Happy Instagraming, here are a few of mine!

Upside down visor boy...

Sitting on a tree stump...

Giving big bubba kisses!

Brotherhood

If you instragram, make a post of your instagrams from webstagram and share them with us!

Follow me on Instagram, tell me you are following me on Instagram and I will follow back.

Every Tues-Thurs

Cancer Treatments, Are you Aware of Your Options?

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Mon, 06 May 2013 16:32:00 PDT

Curelauncher.com has information about experimental cancer treatments and other important medical issues. Most people do realize that over 200 million Americans have a chronic disease because at least one of these Americans may be members of their own family, or they may also be friends or work associates. Some of the diseases that Curelauncher.com deals with are diabetes, heart disease, asthma and cancer. It may be shocking, but it also true that less than 5% of all Americans know where to find new treatments for chronic diseases, and they also do not know where to find information about clinical trials. Cure Launcher has the lofty goal of matching newly-diagnosed patients with new, specific and correct treatments. In other word, they help patients with the ability to take control of their own medical situation, and they make it a priority for patients to become aware of all of their options, including experimental trials. Some of the reasons to enter an experimental Clinical trial revolves around feelings that a chronically ill person wants to be in charge of their medical condition. They may also want to obtain a genuine sense of personal well-being. Many also realize that their recovery is connected to developing a personal relationship with the medical staff that is responsible for their treatment. Some simply want to be treated as real people in a dire situation, and they want to know that their participation in a trial may, someday, help others. In all cases, Curelauncher.com is a place for answers.

Life in Mommyland

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Mon, 06 May 2013 04:00:00 PDT

Today I woke up excited to see some mom group pals at a super awesome Mother's Day brunch at Josephine's, a popular local restaurant in town. It was my first time going, I didn't order anything though, because I had just gotten back from breakfast out with the fam, but really wanted to see my gal pals anyway. I couldn't believe how much time just seems to pass by when I'm hanging out with these awesome moms, but before I knew it, it was 1:25 and Hunky Hubs texted me asking if I was ever going to return. Its just nice to have that mom to mom connection, that I lacked for so long.

Anyway, Last night J myster slept on the floor next to our bed. He was feverish the day before and lethargic and just not himself. Thankfully this evening, he has returned to his normal self after a second day of sleeping. He's had no other symptoms other than being tired and having a low grade fever, occasionally he would complain of a stomach ache, but thankfully no vomiting! YAY!!!

Due to his fever and sluggishness we missed picture day at his soccer game today, but I know this is only the start of sports for J Myster. I still was kinda sad he wasn't going to be in team photos today, his first ever team picture in an organized sport. Ok, I'm more than kinda sad, I'm really sad.

But with all the pictures I take of my kids its not like I'll be sitting here later going Oh my lord how did I let six months go by without snapping a picture of the kid. That would never happen. He already thinks he's a movie star with as many pictures and videos I take of him. ;)

other than that, I am excited for these next couple of weeks. So much stuff is happening and I just hope things happen without a hitch. I know I'm probably asking too much, but I absolutely can't wait to garden in the front of my house after our house is painted. I cannot wait to add some eye popping flowers and shrubs. For so long the outside of our house has looked like no one lives here, and now I am excited to make it look like it is a well loved home.

Then we can have some barbecues over the summer and have like 90 percent of this home renovation stuff behind us.

Vegas Vacation Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 PDT

Organized by Adventure Into Domesticland

Sponsored by Alice On Vacation

A big thanks to the co-hosts: Exotic Philippines, My Four Littles, Stacy's Savings & Other Stuff, Miss beSavin and Growing Up Gabel!!

This is the first time I've been able to team up with other bloggers to help give someone a vacation and I couldn't be more thrilled! Good look to all the contestants!

Prize Package includes:

•4 day and 3 night accommodations at a 3+ star hotel on the strip in Las Vegas, NV for 2 adults!

(25 years or older)

• A $500 dollar Funbook! (with cash, chips, meals, tokens & show tickets!)

Giveaway ends June 7th at 11:59 pm PST. Open worldwide, except to residents of Nevada, USA and proof of residency is required. Must be at least 25 years old to enter. Certificate only covers hotel accommodations. Winner will be responsible for all other expenses, including without limitations: any taxes, fees, transportation, gratuities, meals and surcharges. Hotel will require that you present a major credit card to cover other possible charges. Winners are chosen at random by random.org. and will be notified via email, be given 48 hours to respond (or another winner will be chosen). To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received no compensation for this publication. Mommy Only Has 2 Hands is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment. Please contact Alice Kingsleigh with questions or to see your business or blog featured on the next big event! This giveaway is no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest.

Getting Our House Painted!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Sat, 04 May 2013 23:10:00 PDT

Today I helped my husband stain our deck/stairs in the back yard. I know he is so grateful that its done. No more sanding!! It took so long to do, because with kids, its not exactly something you can dedicate your time to until its finished. You have to work in shifts. Not only are we happy that its finally sanded and stained keeping as much of the natural redwood color as possible, I am also happy about something else!

On Wednesday, Hunky Hubs asked if I could call around to get an estimate to see how much it would cost for someone to come out and just paint the second story trim. I called four different places and was very pleased with the first place we called. Now to explain this story a little better, we got an estimate from someone who came to our door back in February and their pricing was like 3 grand outside our budget. We thought it was a little high, but we kind of assumed that maybe it was a grand or two higher than other places, so we just figured we'd do the work ourselves. I was relieved when Hunky Hubs asked me to call around to different places to have some one just paint our second story trim, so he didn't have to get on a ladder or hang himself off the roof to paint it.

So I jumped on making phone calls. The first guy, came out the next day to give us two estimates, one for the second story trim, and the second for the whole house. I thought I would just amuse the guy on doing the whole house because I assumed it would still be outside of the range of which we were willing to pay. He asked us how much our first estimate was and when I told him what we were quoted, he looked stunned. I said we were hoping for half that price and he took a quick scan of the house and said "yeah I think that's more accurate." He did his measuring, was very nice to my son, who wanted to be his little helper and called back the same day with a written up proposal and some amazing prices and his work was guaranteed with a 10 year warranty.

I forwarded his email on to Hunky Hubs who also was equally amazed. We are getting two other quotes, and we invited the first company back from our February estimate to re-evaluate their bid, which amazingly came in close to the same range as the guy who came out Friday. He made some excuses for why it was double that price the first time, but I really doubt we will even look in his direction considering some of the reviews we've read online about the company, were pretty bad. When we make a final decision I might mention company names then, but I'll just keep them under wraps for now.

Anyway, to make a long story short, it looks like we will be having our home professionally painted, and taking the hard work off ourselves, and the need for finding a babysitter for an entire week.

So on Monday, it will be making a final decision on which company to choose, then before we paint, we have one last project to tackle, and that is residing the front of the house.

I will talk more about that project later, I'm hoping it goes off without much of a hitch, but anyone who knows what its like to fix or make things look pretty around your home, knows stuff just happens and can take longer than expected. I'm praying for nothing unexpected here, I've been waiting to paint the outside of this house since we moved in.

But as for now, I am breathing a little sigh of relief, realizing all this work might be lifted off our shoulders and letting professionals do this, is well worth the money.

Before I go, just had to share this adorable shot of my kids from today:

Aren't they cute?

I love it when they aren't hating on each other.

The Weekend Blog Post Showcase

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Fri, 03 May 2013 06:00:00 PDT

How many times have you participated in a blog hop and had someone come over to your heartfelt blog post and simply say "Hi, I'm following you from such and such blog, please follow back" ?

Well lets try to get a little deeper.

You spent a lot of time writing that post and you want more than a Hey I'm following you, follow me back comment don't you?

<a href="http://www.mommyonlyhas2hands.org/search/label/weekend%20showcase" target="_blank"></a>

MobileFun's Marware iPad 2 Case!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Thu, 02 May 2013 19:51:00 PDT

A few weeks ago I reviewed an amazing iphone 5 wallet from Mobilefun.com. They must have thought I did a great job, because they let me review something else. My husband has an ipad 2 and he's never had a case for it, so I wanted to get him one and this review allowed me the perfect opportunity to do that. We got him this black Marware case and I'm kind of jealous of it. I really really want one now for my ipad. My ipad is in a nice leather bound case, but after feeling the sleek and slim feel of his ipad in this case..., I'm kind of drooling over it and I think I'm going to save up for a hot pink one!

The Marware cases come in three colors, black, silver and pink. I'm totally digging the pink! Its on my mommy want list and Mother's day is coming up......(to the hubby who may read this post fx) ;)

Anyway, let me explain why I love this case so much. I love that it protects both the front and back of the iPad and that the case is ultra thin. The cover folds into different stances so you can prop your ipad up in different ways that may work for what you'd like to use your ipad for. I love watching TV shows on mine, so I like having it in this stance:

But you can also turn it this way if you want to use your ipad in less of a vertical position.

See how thin it is??

And for me the best part is how thin it feels. It doesn't add bulk to your ipad or take away from the feel of what I'm sure apple designed the iPad to feel like.

Also on the back, I like that it has these groves in the shell. The groves provide grip when you are holding your case and also helps to prop up the iPad with the cover so it doesn't slip.

Back of the case

This microshell is made of polycarbonate, and has a rubberized component to it, but I'm thankful it doesn't feel rubberized. I dislike the feel of rubberized phone cases, and this doesn't feel that way.

Front of the case

So I always rate things on a 5 star ratio and I have to give this case 5 stars. Its just too sleek, too cool...and now after getting this for Hunky Hubs, I really really want one, so this is on my wish list. So if you are considering any kind of protection, Mobilefun has so many ipad 2 cases to choose from, but I totally 100 percent recommend this one, even over apple's official smart case, because the apple cases don't have backs, they just have covers. This one will protect the back from scratches, plus the price is much better and you get more protection!

MOHTH Ongoing Giveaway Linky

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Thu, 02 May 2013 04:45:00 PDT

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Just Off The Top Of My Head...

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 20:08:00 PDT

Its not often I get to write just off the top of my head, but that is what I am doing right now. Lately my mind has been racing at night when I go to bed thinking of our up coming house project, but today, I woke up feeling rather grateful for my surrounds. A year ago we were waiting ever so patiently for the keys to our house, we lived in a town house, and it was nice, but we went from about 1400 square feet to 1890 plus two huge yards and we are really enjoying the space.

Last Saturday I woke up and saw that a few houses down our neighbors were having a garage sale. So the kids and I walked over there and introduced ourselves to some more neighbors. Deb said she has lived in her house for 30 years, so she was here when this neighborhood was brand new. She said that she raised her kids here and all the moms would sit out in their front yards, in lawn chairs, and watch the kids play. I think it is such a neat community that we've moved into and its made me count my blessings.

I am grateful to live in such a kid friendly neighborhood. At any given moment there's a mom jogging down the street pushing a stroller, or kids are riding their bikes and school buses are going by. At around 3pm, kids are walking home from school with their band instruments and I just picture one day waiting for the boys as they walk home from school.

The next two months might be brutal on us, but I'm so grateful for what we have. We all have our own space in this house and then some. Who would have thought we would have found a place that would give me an office and my husband his man cave he dreamt about for years, plus the kids have a playroom and we have a full size beautiful kitchen and two living rooms, or I guess one is a family room now.

It just all seems to be falling into place. I know right now Hunky Hubs can't really see how blessed we are, because he's buried in stuff to do, both at work and here at home, but it will all die down very soon and we'll be able to just enjoy ourselves.

Life can be quite stressful at times, but I'm also learning that my kids are not going to be this small forever, so I really need to take it all in.

Today J was sitting at the table at breakfast time and he says, "mommy you are my life". Now I have no idea where he heard that phrase from, but I grabbed him and gave him the biggest hug ever and told him that "he is my life too and always will be."

The best parts of my day are listening to my kids laugh and play together.

On Sunday we went to dinner with some friends of ours and an elderly couple was sitting across from us, and they had smiles on their faces as they were watching us with our kids. Braidy was blowing kisses and waving to them and when we got up to leave, the gentlemen said, "your kids are adorable, but don't blink, my babies are 35 and 40".

Its times like this when I am grateful for this blog so I can look back and read this stuff and I'm grateful for every picture I snap. Maybe we are a snap happy nation and take too many pictures of our kids, but when I'm 75, I'm going to have the best photo albums and memories of my babies ever!

Anyway, I'm gonna try to spend more time living in the moment, instead of always racing to the next. Once we get our patio set up, I think I will be spending many a caffeinated morning just watching the kids play and enjoying the moments.

What helps you to live in the moment?

6 Vehicles A First Time Driver Can Afford

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:20:00 PDT

First time drivers don't have to be stuck with grandma's hand me down or a clunker from that shady used dealer across town. Auto makers are now offering an array of choices for the new driver. These cars look stylish, are reliable vehicles, and are so inexpensive even students can own one.

1. Ford Fiesta

Image via Flickr by Autoviva.com

Specifically marketed to young adults, the Ford Fiesta offers tons of up to date features, such as smartphone syncing. Body style choices include a sedan and a five door hatchback. In addition to the stylish look and sturdy build, the fiesta offers a peppy little drive at an affordable price.

2. Chevrolet Sonic

Image via Flickr by sarahlarson
Chevrolet's small car offerings have been lackluster of late, but they're redeeming themselves with the new Sonic. Offered in a sedan and five door hatchback body styles, a sporty model is available for those who can't bring themselves to drive something without some spunk. The sonic is affordable, and very fuel efficient.

3. Mazda 3

Image via Flickr by Creatop
For young drivers who need extra room for more passengers or cargo, the Mazda 3 is ideal. Mazda is known for offering quality cars with practical features, and this is no exception. It's also very fun to drive, and is less boring than the popular Honda Corolla or Civic. It comes in both six speed manual and six speed automatic transmissions.

4. Dodge Dart

Image via Flickr by Autoviva.com
Car lovers dream of driving an Alfa Romeo, and the Dogde Dart is on the same platform as the Giulietta, without the ginormous price tag. The Dart comes with several performance packages and an abundance of options, so the first time driver can opt to save money or get one fully tricked out at an affordable price. You can see one of the new Darts on the lot at Arrigo Dodge Chrysler Jeep in Ft Pierce FL.

5. Kia Soul

Image via Flickr by Carcomparing.eu
If you're thinking of the poorly made, awfully rated Kia of old, think again. This manufacturer has cleaned up their act, and for young drivers the Soul offers lots of pep, great looks inside and outside, and a decent sized interior. It's also one of the most affordable cars on this list.

6. Honda Accord

Image via Flickr by Stradablog
The Accord is a great seller in every demographic group, all for the same reasons. The Accord is good looking, affordable, and is one of the safest vehicles on the road. Accords also hold their resell value well, so when college debts are paid off and it's time to trade in, the Accord is still going to be worth something. As a bonus to young drivers, the Accord has one of the best factory sound systems available.
When pricing your first vehicle, it's important to include the cost of insurance when budgeting your car payment. All too often, young drivers underestimate what auto insurance costs, and end up with payments too high to make. Call your insurance company before agreeing to buy the car. Insurers will gladly give you a quote on insuring the car, so you know ahead of time if you can afford the insurance on top of the car payment.

Another great way to save when buying a car is to opt out of special packages and features. These can drive up the cost of the car by thousands of dollars.

Author Bio:
Christy Wilson earned her bachelor's degree in journalism/mass communications from Samford University. After working several years as a newspaper reporter and writer, she began her online freelancing career. She now lives and works from her home on the lake in Pell City, Alabama, with her two daughters.

The Hump Day Blog & Social Media Link Up!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:00:00 PDT

Happy Hump Day!!

EVERYONE WHO LINKS UP WILL HAVE A CHANCE TO CO-HOST!

3. It would be nice if you displayed the button in your post or blog sidebar to help spread the word.

And Most of All, have a Happy Hump Day!

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Our Co-Host This Week Is:

Heather from:

Mommy Only Has 2 Hands

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Blogger Op: Keurig Giveaway

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Flattenme Personalized Children's Book

The Beautiful Lila Rose Flexi Clip

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The Weekend Blog Post Showcase

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Chose Our House Colors!!!

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Life in Mommyland

Vegas Vacation Giveaway!

Getting Our House Painted!

The Weekend Blog Post Showcase

MobileFun's Marware iPad 2 Case!

MOHTH Ongoing Giveaway Linky

Just Off The Top Of My Head...

6 Vehicles A First Time Driver Can Afford

The Hump Day Blog & Social Media Link Up!

http://goo.gl/qTpmN