My Chihuahua Bites!

3 On Thursday: What Won’t You Do?

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Wed, 23 May 2012 23:39:00 +0000

Hey guys! Thanks for coming by today for 3 On Thursday. Today is a fun topic… check it out below!

As always, please visit my delightful co-host, Cole. She rocks my socks off!

What 3 things will you absolutely not do?

I realize this is somewhat of an ambiguous topic, so feel free to write whatever your little heart desires.

One thing I will never do…. wear shorts. They just look strange on me. I’m short and plus sized. I have cellulite and stretch marks. NOT CUTE. I will wear exercise type shorts around the house (not to exercise, clearly) but I don’t wear them in public.

I actually tried on shorts today and no matter what fabric or length I tried they still looked odd. Oh well!

I will also never…. go commando outside of my house. This one is another weird quirk of mine. You can bet your last dollar that if I’m outside of the house, I’m wearing presentable underwear. After all, I could be in an accident and I have to have something covering my vajayjay. BUT as soon as I’m home and I’m in my comfy clothes (= my pjs) (TMI) I am commando all the way. I actually can’t stand the feeling of wearing underwear to bed. Strange, right? Someone told me when I was little that “down there” needed to “breathe” or some such nonsense and I guess I bought into that.

On a serious note, one thing I will never do is… smoke. I’ve lost two loved ones to lung/throat cancer and I just can’t do it. I don’t have a desire to smoke, but if I did, I would not because I’ve seen how it can destroy your body.

[Yeah, yeah, yeah… being overweight is just as hazardous as smoking, I know.]

[Ignores lecture as I shove Fruity Peebles down my gullet.]

What are 3 things you would never do?

Please remember to visit Cole! You won’t regret it. If you are linking up, please include our button or a link to our site. Link to your blog post and not your blog home page. Please visit your fellow participants to say hello. And yada yada yada… you know the drill.

The Nail Files

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Fri, 18 May 2012 12:15:00 +0000

TGIF. Seriously. I have never meant that so much. This week has been no bueno. Jason has been sick (and thus, I have been miserable). Cooper is alternating being super sweet and ultra defiant, and Jason’s new work schedule is kicking all of our butts. But it is Friday and next week I am beach bound!

I’m linking up with Vicki and Tara today for The Nail Files!

Here are a few of my recent manis.

Illamasqua Jo’mina

Loreal Club Prive

OPI Gargantuan Green

Zoya Kate & Coraline

Loreal Club Prive on thumb, middle, and pinky finger. Butter London Trout Pout on pointer & index. I used Milani black nail art polish to create the stripes and outline the cheetah print.

OPI Catch Me In Your Net

What do you have on your nails and toes?

3 On Thursday: Comfort Foods

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Wed, 16 May 2012 23:48:00 +0000

Hey friends! I hope you are doing well on this fine Thursday. Thanks for visiting and linking up with us again.

Be sure to visit my amazing, super, incredible co-hostess Cole at All The Small Stuff! If you aren’t familiar with her blog, it is a must-read!

Today’s topic is:

What are your 3 favorite comfort foods?

Mine will probably gross some of you out. The thing I find myself reaching for most often when I’m stressed, sad, or upset is tuna fish. Yeah, I know. It’s not cool to like tuna fish. {Insert high school joke here} I like mine with lots of mayo (no relish, gag) and to make it extra appetizing, I eat it on top of Doritos.

I know. You’re surprised I’m not super toned and fit, aren’t you?

I also love macaroni and cheese. And since that tops the list of things I can’t cook no matter how hard I try or how many different recipes I experiment with, I often find myself turning to Annie’s Shells and White Cheddar.

[I’m serious about not being able to cook mac and cheese. I also can’t cook mashed potatoes or brownies. No matter how many times I try, these foods just never taste quite right. I actually am a pretty decent cook, but these three items just get the best of me. ]

Another comfort food I love it pot roast. I like it cooked in the crock pot, but since I can’t master gravy (add that to the list above, please) we usually go to The Cracker Barrel when I’m wanting some home cooked pot roast. Yum and yum.

What are your favorite comfort foods? Link up or comment! Please and thank you.

Finales and Sad Goodbyes

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Mon, 14 May 2012 14:01:00 +0000

Hey there.

Long time no post, huh? I feel like I'm apologizing all the time, but the truth is that life is overwhelming at the moment. Not bad overwhelming... just go-three-days-without-washing-my-oily-hair overwhelming. Things will get better, but for the time being my blog has had to take a backseat to life in general.

Anywhoodles....

I promise to write a post with some substance soon (like, tonight, possibly) but for now I want to talk about television.

What did you think of the Desperate Housewives finale?

I've been watching DH since the very beginning. There have been times I wanted to just give up on the show (like this season - the murder drama was ridiculous) but I persevered because I find it impossible to give up on shows I've watched for years and years.

Except Grey's Anatomy. I gave up on that last season.

I had missed the last 5 or so shows, so last night after Jason left for work I tossed my toddler in his crib with a book (don't judge me - it was Mother's Day, dammit!) and sat down to catch up. I only watched the last two episodes, and then the finale.

Thoughts:

The saddest and most moving part of the show was McClusky dying. Love that witch-with-a-b.
You expect me to believe four friends (and Carlos) would just let Bree stand trial and take the fall for the murder? Really? That whole storyline just turned my stomach. You build these women up as the best of friends, and their actions say anything but.
Gabby is a Vice President? Ha. Yeah, right.
I did not care for the ending. At all. Again, they are the best of friends but basically go their own ways and never reunite?
I think the show could possibly be setting up for a spin off. Moving all the girls off Wisteria Lane could set the stage for a crop of newer, younger Housewives. (with secrets! Dum dum dum!)

I'm always so sad when a beloved television series ends. To me, it really signifies the passage of time. I was sad to see DH end, but nothing will top the ending of Felicity - I distinctly remember crawling under my kitchen table and ugly crying the night that finale aired. To be fair, I had drank an entire bottle of wine while I watched.

Did you hear GCB got canceled? Sadz. I really liked it!

Do you watch the Real Housewives of Orange County? Vicki is so unlikeable! I've always thought she was mememe but this season she has taken it over the top. I hate how she made Brianna's illness all about her - even to the point that when she brought Brianna home from the hospital she made a comment about how mean Brianna was being to her. Hello, the girl just had surgery and doesn't want to talk. Then when Brianna got married, she went on and on about how Brianna had stolen a moment from her. B, please. IT IS NOT ALL ABOUT YOU.

What are you watching and loving right now?

Don't forget to link up with Cole and I for 3 On Thursday! This week's topic is:

What are your 3 favorite comfort foods?

3 On Thursday: Secret Single Behaviors

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Fri, 11 May 2012 21:13:00 +0000

Y’all. I am SORRY.

I apologize to you, dear readers, and to my super awesome co-hostess and friend, Cole, that I am just now publishing this blog post. I stink as a hostess, do I not? This week has kicked my butt and I am just now getting time to sit down at my computer.

Please be sure to visit Cole and when you do, tell her I will do better in the future, mmmkay?

This week’s topic is:

What are your secret single behaviors? What do you do that you would be embarrassed to have a man (or anyone, really) see you do?

A little background on this week’s question: if you are SATC (Sex & the City) fans, you might remember an episode that talked about this very topic. Basically, the girls were talking about things they did that they would never want men to see them do.

We all have secret single behaviors, right?

Number One:

I shave my face (a la Caroline Manzo). You see, I’m quite hairy and I have the joy of sporting a little bit of a moustache. Thanks, Dad! I simply cannot have that, so I have a little tiny electric razor that I use once a week to clear up any stray hairs.

I also have recently been the proud owner of a chin hair. OH MAH GOSH. You better bet that bad boy got ripped out as soon as I noticed it.

Number Two:

Never will I ever go to the bathroom with the door open. No. Just no. No one needs to see you make your ugly face when the food you ate last night just won’t make its exit out of your body. NO. Do everyone a favor and close that door.

(The exception to this rule is Cooper, who unfortunately has little respect for my closed door rule.)

Number Three:

Sometimes when I’m driving alone in my car, I put on sad music, sing really loudly, and cry. What? You don’t do that? I mean, sometimes you just want to cry.

(I highly recommend Fix You by Coldplay as tear inducing music.)

I should point out that while I say these are secret single behaviors, my husband has seen me do #1. I just can’t keep it from him any longer.

Other bonus entries:

Making tuna fish and eating it on top of Doritos
Eating spaghetti, as every time I eat it my shirt looks as though someone has shot me in the chest.
Popping pimples. Ga-ross.
Clipping your toenails. No one wants to be near your flying toenails, sister. Clip ‘em in the bathroom and then sweep them up, PLEASE.

How about you? What are your secret single behaviors?

Please remember to link to your blog post, not your blog. Be sure to visit the other participants when you have time! Please and thank you.

3 On Thursday: Guilty Pleasures

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Wed, 02 May 2012 19:07:00 +0000

Hey friends! It is that time again. Thanks so much for linking up with Cole and I. We think you are super duper awesome, and we are grateful for your readership!

Be sure to visit my co-hostess with the mostess, Cole. She is entering a new phase of life with some exciting happenings, and I hope you will wish her well!

This week's question is:

What are your 3 guilty pleasures?

Well, if you watched my husband's vlog, the answer to that question is scarfs and nail polish. Ha! My answers are a little different...

Starbucks. I love it so. My drink of choice is either the Double Chocolate Chip Frappacino or the Trenta unsweetened Black Iced Tea.

Sephora (also Ulta) is my happy place. I'm not kidding. I walk into the store and instantly I feel less stressed. Of course I love to buy makeup, but just browsing and swatching makes me happy.

My husband was right about one thing - nail polish is definitely a guilty pleasure. I have way too many bottles of polish. I polish my nails at least twice a week. It's just something I do to feel pretty and unwind after a hard day.

Of course, these are all guilty pleasures because my husband would not approve. Haha!

What are your guilty pleasures?

3 On Thursday: Where You’d Love to Live

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 01:31:00 +0000

Hey guys! Welcome back for our fourth edition of 3 On Thursday. Cole and I are so happy you guys are linking up. Thanks so much for reading our blogs and participating.

Please be sure to visit my super awesome co-host, Cole at All The Small Stuff.

This week’s question is:

Sometimes it's fun to envision packing up and moving to a new city/state. Where are three places that you'd consider living?

Jason and I have been pretty lucky to have the opportunity to travel when he was in the Navy. Had I not met and married him, I feel sure I would never have packed up and moved to Washington State! Still, I loved living there for the time period (2004-2008) we were there.

Mt. Rainer, Washington

We had the opportunity to be stationed in Hawaii in 2008, but we turned it down in favor of Charleston, SC. I kind of wish I could go back and change that. Hawaii sounds amazing!

I love to have a beach house and live on the beach! Maybe during our retirement? My pick would be Edisto Island, SC.

Edisto Island, SC, 2011

How about you? Where would you want to live if you had the choice?

Interview with the Husband

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:48:00 +0000

So my dear friend, Susan (who doesn’t blog, boo!) suggested to me the other day that I do a vlog with Jason. The idea itself had been marinating in my brain for some time, so the other day when Jason came home I jumped on him with the idea.

“Hey! You’re going to be on my blog!”

Needless to say, he wasn’t exactly enthused, but since he’s a trooper he agreed. I told him I was going to ask him some questions about our marriage/me and he was to be “honest but not mean.” He had no idea what I was going to ask him. I wanted this to be impromptu and honest.

Well, honest he was. Some of the things he said we are little risqué, but since I don’t know how to edit videos (is there a class on that? some sort of software for Windows?) you get his answers in their entirety.

The video is a little long, and for that I apologize. Still, it’s worth the watch! I myself think it is absolutely hilarious.

Next week I’ll have my interview to share with you. I figured turnabout is fair play so I let Jason turn the tables and interview me.

Let me know what you think in the comments!

Weekend Wrap Up

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 02:16:00 +0000

I cannot believe it is already Monday! I swear, since I became an adult, weekends come so much faster. I wonder if it (seems to, anyway) goes by so quickly because I have to go to work on Monday?

Here’s something I’ve always wondered – no snark or disrespect intended – do SAHM/W feel the same way about Mondays as their working counterparts? Again, that isn’t a dig at all – I think if I didn’t work, Monday would probably be just another day.

Fridays are always a fun day. It doesn’t matter how much I am dragging all week or how little sleep I get on Thursday nights, on Friday I always have tons of energy. Plus it is casual Friday at work, so that’s always good times!

This Friday I took casual Friday up a level and wore my slippers to work. Ha!

I’m trying to embrace my curly/wavy/funky hair and wear it natural more. I still think it looks better straight, though.

That afternoon, Jason and I picked up Cooper from daycare together, and we headed out to do something fun. On Friday, we headed to a local park to play and walk the track.

SO. MUCH. FUN!

Later we decided to go to the Golden Corral – it was actually my first time. I was totally overwhelmed, but it was paradise for kids. I’m a little weird about buffets but I would go back simply for the kid-friendly atmosphere.

Saturday was super low-key. We literally stayed at home all day in our pajamas. Check the boy rocking his pjs with a belt.

Also he had a small hole in the toe of his Children’s Place stretchies. He messed with that hole until his whole foot fit through the hole. The sad thing is that this has happened to quite a few of our CP pajamas.

We were hardcore with potty training this weekend, and he did SO WELL! He wet his pullup once on Saturday and Sunday, both times after his nap. I am so proud of this boy! Unfortunately he isn’t doing quite as well at daycare.

We celebrated his success on Saturday with popsicles on the deck.

Sunday morning I decided to play the role of a good wife and jump out of the bed at 7:00 a.m. with Cooper. How about Jason came downstairs at 8:00 a.m.? Butthead, when I give you the opportunity to sleep in you should take it! My butt would have stayed in the bed until noon.

We took Cooper to my parent’s house after his nap and Jason and I went out for a date. Date nights are so glamorous – we went to the mall, Carrabbas for dinner, and Kroger to shop for some groceries.

How was your weekend? Did you do anything special?

Guest Post: Spring Nail Favs!

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:44:00 +0000

Hey guys! I’m guesting post over at La Vita e Bella today for the lovely AMP while she is away in sunny San Francisco.

I’m sharing a vlog with some of my favorite nail polish shades for spring – you definitely won’t want to miss it! Please click on over and check it out.

For your viewing pleasure, here are some recent NOTD (Nail of the Day) pictures.

Essie Flirt with Kiss nail appliques – I do not recommend this brand! They were peeling off by the next day.

Julep Blake and Sally Hansen nail appliques – these lasted much longer than the Kiss brand. These were my Easter nails – the stickers have little peeps!

China Glaze Fast Track & OPI A Roll in the Hague

Nails Inc Portobello

China Glaze Yellow Polka Dot Bikini. In person this is much more of a highlighter yellow, and it applied extremely streaky.

I’m linking up to Vicki and Tara for The Nail Files!

Thank you, friends! Happy Friday!

3 On Thursday: Books

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 07:25:00 +0000

Hey friends! I’m so excited to be back here again for 3 On Thursday. Cole and I appreciate y’all linking up with us so very much! If you have any suggestions for future topics or things we could do to improve the linky, please let us know! If we use one of your ideas, you may just get a special sursy in the mail from moi.

As always, please make sure you link to your specific blog post, not to your entire blog. The purpose of this is just to make things easier if someone comes to visit you later in the week. Please link back to Cole and I in your post (or use our button – just copy and paste the coding above). Try to visit some of the other participants as well. Please & thank you!

This week’s question is courtesy of my fantabulous co-hostess, Cole. Isn’t she the best? I love her to pieces.

What three books are most important to you? What books do you re-read most frequently?

I love to read. Love, love, love. I read anywhere from 1-3 books a week. It used to be more, pre-Cooper. I read every day during lunch and every night before I go to sleep. I read when I’m waiting, in the bath, and during nap times. I love to read!

I got my Kindle in 2010 and I haven’t looked back! I never thought I could make the switch to e-reading but now holding a book just feels so bizarre to me.

I’m crazy passionate about reading, in case the above didn’t clue you in. I started reading when I was very young, and was reading chapter books in elementary school. Reading has just always been a part of my life, and I credit my writing skills, creativity, and imagination to reading.

A few months back I went on a crazy rant on Twitter about my love of books. Specifically, the Harry Potter series. I could read this series over and over.

Y’all, I really and truly believe JK Rowling is a genius. I think she did something phenomenal for the world, and that is to revive our youth’s (and their parents!) love of reading. I cannot tell you how happy it always made me to see so many people standing in line for the release of a new HP book. The truly great thing about the Harry Potter books is that it is all imaginative. These books force children to use their imagination, because there is just nothing comparable in the real world.

I was seriously sad when this series ended. I spent years loosing myself in Hogwarts, and having to say goodbye was really hard for me. I know – some of you are thinking I’m crazy, but the book lovers reading this will understand.

Another one of my favorite books is The Hunger Games.

I really don’t think this series is for children. I think kids should be pre-teen or above before reading it just because of the violent subject matter. But again, it forces you to use your imagination and also to think about some serious subjects. Famine, control, death, war… it’s all there. The real question that goes through your mind is what if? What if I lived in this world?

I think every Southern girl (or wannabe Southern girl!) should read Gone With the Wind. The book – not the movie! I read this in 7th grade (mostly for the points – did you have a program like that at your school?)

I’m reading 50 Shades of Grey right now because everyone and their mother has been talking about it on Twitter. It is straight up erotica! I’m halfway in and I’m waiting for a plot…

As for books I like to re-read, I re-read pretty much all my books. I have read some of my favorites 20 times! I get lost in books no matter how many times I’ve read the book before.

Some of my other favorite authors are:

Ilona Andrews
Meg Cabot
Rachel Caine
Jude Deveraux
Julie Garwood
Emily Giffin
Beth Harbison
Charlaine Harris
Kim Harrison
Rachel Hawkins
CC Hunter
Richelle Mead
Karen Marie Moning
Carrie Ryan

I can’t wait to hear about some of your favorite books and authors. I hope you will link up!

Photo Dump

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 10:16:00 +0000

Yeah, I know. Just yesterday I was saying I hate “photo dump'” and here I am using it. This will truly be a random post!

I got two new cell phone cases recently, both from Etsy. The top is from ToGildTheLily and the bottom is from RosiePosieDesigns.

If you see me out and about, check my hands/arms for color. Chances are I have some sort of makeup smeared on my hands/arms. I swatch makeup everywhere I go that has testers. This is the Stila Dream In Full Color palette.

Warning: lots of Face of the Day (FOTD) and Outfit of the Day (OOTD) pictures ahead. Do you follow me on Instagram? I have details of what I’m wearing there. Find me at andrearhouse. I’ll add them below if I remember… but if it is missing, email me or check Instagram.

Target sunnies and Miss Trish sandals that are several years old. White jeans are from Kmart. Coral top is Old Navy, and coral lipstick/gloss is Sonia Kashuk.

My dress is from Lane Bryant. I can’t remember what makeup I’m wearing – I think the Stila palette I referenced above, and the lips are NYX.

Low key eyes because I had an eye appointment that day. Susan, my eye are tightlined! I’m wearing the same NYX gloss as above.

This was my attempt at more of a natural look.

I’m trying out the Garnier BB cream here, which is a foundation, tinted moisturizer, primer, and brightener in one. I loved it this day, but I used it last week and it turned me orange. I think I have the wrong shade.

I’m wearing my Lane Bryant animal print dress again, this time with leggings and Issac Mizrahi for Target sandals that are at least 6 years old.

Polka dot top is from Lane Bryant. Nails are the yellow from the China Glaze Electro Pop collection. The wedges are from Payless, and they should still be in stores.

Now for some pics of my boy.

Looking for lizards.

Wrecking complete havoc at the Cracker Barrel. Seriously – he was being a terror.

I went to the consignment store and picked up a Mr. Potato Head for Cooper. I went to check out, and they bought out this huge box of accessories. I paid $7 and got every Disney Mr. Potato accessory known to man. Fireman Mickey, Space Mickey, Minnie, Safari Mickey…. the list goes on and on. Total score!

I had to dress him up like a golfer during the Masters.

The kid has style!

Well, I think that’s enough for today. Hope you enjoyed my truly random post!

Randoms

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 09:43:00 +0000

I was going to entitle this post “Brain Dump/iPhone Photo Dump” but I always think that sounds a little gross. Agree/disagree?

So, I mentioned yesterday we were the victims of identity theft. We had been putting off getting our taxes done because I was convinced that we were going to owe money. Why rush to pay the government? So I made an appointment with our tax preparer for last Monday. Long story short, we were pleasantly surprised by the outcome. Apparently our home in Charleston, which we rent out at a loss, is a huge asset to us tax-wise. So we actually walked away with a refund, which was nice!

Outfit of the Day/Makeup of the Day and Wallaby Darned post tax appointment

Tuesday morning, I got a call from our tax preparing stating she was unable to complete our e-file because someone had already filed taxes using Jason’s social security number. AWESOME. After hours on hold with the IRS, we were told we had likely been victims of identity theft. We had to mail in our tax returns, along with a statement stating we believed we were victims of identity theft. Apparently once they receive our returns, they have 90 days to assign us a investigator. Then, once the investigation is complete, they will process our return. So I’m assuming we’ll receive our money sometime next year. <eye roll>

We were told we have to file a police report, alert Social Security, put an alert on our credit reports, file a complaint with the State Attorney General, and contact the FTC. Which is all a little frustrating considering the IRS will give us no information to actually tell these people except someone else filed with Jason’s SSN.

Since this happened, I’ve learned it has become quite common in the past few years. It could be several things. One, someone could have made a simple error when entering their own SSN. We’re hoping this is the case. Two, EINs (issued to immigrants) apparently closely match some SSNs, and it has become a problem that the numbers are either closely matching or identical. Or it could have truly been fraud, and someone could have access to his SSN. I’ve ran our credit reports and no one has opened accounts in our name so far, thank goodness.

I’d appreciate your prayers that this is resolved quickly, if you don’t mind!

The Saturday before Easter we took Cooper to the zoo in Columbia. It was an absolute madhouse! It was so crowded that I actually wanted to just pack up and leave. I hate going to the zoo when it is like that because people act like idiots and crowd the exhibits, which means my tiny 2 year old saw absolutely nothing.

My boy is obsessed with penguins. Funny – he actually thinks Angry Birds are penguins, and he asks to play “penguins” all the time on my phone. He wanted to stay at the penguin exhibit for hours!

Clearly Jason was being a fantastic photographer this day. Sorry, Mom!

Momma and baby giraffe

Cooper takes his fanning duties very seriously.

Cute koala

Carousel with cousin Lauren

Precious!

I was going to add in some more random pictures, but I think I’ll save those for a different day. What’s new with you guys?

Easter Recap

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 01:07:00 +0000

Sorry I’ve been somewhat MIA in the blog world the past few weeks. We found out last week we were the victims of identity theft, so we’ve been pretty consumed with trying to figure out what we need to do to fix things and protect ourselves. FUN TIMES!

I never did catch you guys up with our Easter happenings, so I thought it was past time for an Easter post. Sorry this is late for you guys who have already moved on.

I introduced the idea of Easter early to Cooper. I did not get too much into the resurrection of Christ simply because I think he is too young to really understand. We did talk a little about Jesus being reborn, though. I focused this year on who/what is the Easter Bunny (because I knew he would be seeing him) and egg/egg hunting/Easter baskets. Although – I think I did a poor job of explaining the purpose of the Easter Bunny, because, honestly, I’m not too sure of that myself.

Anyway, I did a practice egg hunt a few days before his daycare egg hunt and I’m so glad I did. Apparently someone mowed a 1 year old over while screaming “gimme my egg!” (I mean really – do you expect two year olds to be polite about egg hunting when the adults are standing back and just letting them run amuck?!)

Here he is on his practice run. Why yes, he is wearing a Halloween short-all in March. I paid big money for that sucker and it still fits, so wear it he will.

If you read my Dear (Fill in the Blank) post, you remember my rant about Easter candy. Here’s a pic of me filling eggs for his daycare party. I decided to gift rubber balls, stickers, and plastic bugs for the boys.

The company my dad works for, SCE&G, always has the best holiday parties for kids through the year. Easter was no exception. They had a wonderful luncheon, and then the Easter Bunny met with the kids, followed by egg hunting. He did very well with egg hunting, I’m proud to say. No screaming or stealing eggs from other children on this particular day. Ha!

The setting for the party was so beautiful. SCE&G owns a cabin on the lake in North Augusta, SC and the view is spectacular!

Hanging out with Mommy & Papa before the festivities began. Doesn’t he look cute in his SheSheMade shirt?

So much fun!

Cooper was absolutely obsessed with the idea of the Easter Bunny. When we finally took him to the mall to have his picture taken with the Bunny, he was less than thrilled. Doesn’t he look excited?

On Easter Sunday, my dad’s side of the family came to my house for lunch. We grilled hamburgers and hot dogs, and then we went outside for the kids to hunt eggs. My child was on the move and these were the only good pictures I got.

Easter was so much fun! I’m so happy to have a child I can share all these amazing traditions and beliefs with.

How was your Easter?

Don’t forget to link up with Cole & I this Thursday for 3 On Thursday. This week’s question is:

What three books are most important to you? What books do you re-read most frequently?

3 On Thursday: Spring Must Haves

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 14:27:00 +0000

Hey guys! Sorry this is going up late today. I have had the craziest, most stressful week ever - but more on that in another post!

Please make sure you visit my co-hostess with the mostess, Cole at All The Small Stuff! She is super fab and I love her so. If you don't already follow Cole, make sure you check out her blog for pics of her adorable pups, recipes, and her new book club!

Please remember that this is a “few rules” linky, so please post about the weekly topic in order to link up. Be sure to link to your specific blog post and not your blog. Finally - please do us a favor and visit some of the other ladies to see their answers!

This week's question:

Share what three of your Spring "must haves" are. Do you always get a new pair of sandals? Splurge on the newest seasonal fashions? Is it not Spring without a pedicure or highlights?

It isn't spring to me without new & bright nail polish! I'm loving the China Glaze Electro Pop collection. I'm wearing the yellow on my nails right now!

Spring, to me, means it is time to bust out the sundresses and maxi dresses/skirts. I love this skirt from Old Navy!

Coral is the it color for spring and I can't get enough of it in my makeup shades! I'm loving this kit from Sephora. I have the blush you see pictured, and it is divine!

What are your must-haves for spring? Link up!

Mommylogues!

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 12:31:00 +0000

One thing I’ve learned since I got pregnant and became a mother is that there are just some things people don’t want to tell you. There are gross side effects of pregnancy that never get talked about. Moms don’t warn you that your little one will one day make you wish for the most powerful birth control on the planet. No one ever tells you that although you will love your child, on some days you just plain won’t like them. I didn’t read in my pregnancy books that I’d want to drop kick my husband in the balls just for being completely oblivious when Cooper cries out in the middle of the night.

It’s true, and for some reason we don’t talk about it. In this age of Twitter, Facebook, and blogs it seems that there are still some topics that are off limits. Why? Because we’re afraid of judgment, I think. Because it isn’t polite. Maybe because we’re afraid of the answers.

Well, I for one think these topics shouldn’t be off limits. With all this in mind, I contacted two of my friends, Lis from Beach Bum and Baby and Michelle from Stuttering Shell. I told them that I wanted to start a vlog series where we could interview one another with questions about the “taboo” topics of motherhood and pregnancy. I wanted to ask the off limits questions, and share them with our readers. Lis and Michelle were totally on board, and thus the Mommylogues was born!

Here’s how it will work:

Mommylogues vlogs will be posted twice a month, date TBD. (We’ll let you know in advance!) Michelle, Lis, or I will be responsible for coming up with 5 interview questions. We’ll vlog our answers, post our vlogs for you to watch, and then ask you to participate with your own vlogs. Sound good? We sure do hope so!

Here are this week’s questions:

What was one thing you were totally unprepared for in regards to pregnancy?
People say "your life totally changes when you have children." Do you think that is true? How so?
How has having children affected your marriage?
Have you experienced any judgment from other mothers? If so, in regards to what?
Has your sex life changed since you had children? Is it better or worse?
Bonus question: Ask your husband question number 5. Does he agree with your answer?

And here’s my vlog!

If you think the questions are lame, it is totally my fault. I came up with them for this round, and I think I was a little more tame than I should have been. If you have suggestions for questions, leave them in the comments!

We hope you will participate! Please vlog your answer and link up! The linky will be up for a week, so feel free to participate at any time in the coming week.

Please be sure to visit my awesome co-hosts, Lis and Michelle!

3 On Thursday: Lottery Edition

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 04:01:00 +0000

Hey friends! I am so glad you are here today for 3 On Thursday! Please be sure to visit my co-host, Cole.

This is a “few rules” linky, so please remember that you must post about the topic at hand in order to link up. Be sure to link to your specific blog post and not your blog. And please do us a favor and visit some of the other ladies to see their answers!

Thank you!

Today’s question is:

With the recent MegaMillions hoopla, there's been a lot of dreaming about what we'd do with all that money. What are three things on your "if I won the lottery" list?

My dreams of winning the MegaMillions were dashed, but that doesn’t mean I didn’t plan out what I would do with that money. After paying off my house, bills, saving for retirement, yada yada yada I would:

Quit my job. I enjoy what I do and I am very thankful for my job, but if I won the lottery I would quit my job and stay at home with Cooper.

Buy a beach house on Edisto Island, South Carolina. I love Edisto – it’s the perfect beach town. It is isolated, small, it hasn’t turned into a tourist trap like other beaches. It’s the perfect place to have a weekend getaway!

Take a child-free vacation to Hawaii. Of course I’d stay at the top of the line hotel and shop until I dropped. Maybe I’d even leave the hubs at home and fly out a few of my bloggy besties for a girl retreat!

What would you do if you won the lottery?

Please link up! I can’t wait to read your answers!

To Donate or Not to Donate?

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 14:58:00 +0000

Have I told you guys about my husband's disastrous attempt to donate plasma? First let me make it clear we aren't destitute nor is he in need of money for crack cocaine (which was my response when he told me he wanted to donate plasma). Apparently he did this about 10 years ago and thought it was an easy way to make money (again, husband, we aren't hurting for money!) (not that we have a money tree or anything) (well, we didn't win the lottery) (ok, maybe we could use some money....)

Ahh! You get what I mean.

Anyway. He heard about a local plasma donation center, and he went to donate without telling me beforehand. He donated with no problems, and came home and said "I made $40 today!" I asked him to please not go back - the center is in a questionable area of town, and I've been by there before and seen some less than desirable characters loitering out front. He told me he wouldn't. Fast forward two weeks or so, and I'm at home with Cooper when I get a phone call from Jason.

Whispers: Ummm... I'm ok but I need you to come and get me.
Andrea:What?!
Jason: I donated plasma and I passed out twice. I think I hit my head.
Andrea: What do you mean you donated plasma?! I told you not to go back there!
Jason: They won't let me leave because I passed out.
Andrea: You passed out because you are a --
Jason: I gotta go; here they come!

(I later found out phones are not allowed in the plasma donation center.)
(And you don't allow my husband to call when he passes out???)
(If they would have let him drive home and something would have happened I would have sued their asses.)

And he hangs up on me. I commence to call him back about 40 times and he does not answer. I was FURIOUS, y'all. Worried about Jason, mad that he did something I asked him not to do, sick that in doing so he hurt himself, pissed because I had to take Cooper to a sketchy part of town late, mad because I was going to inconvenience my parents and have to ask for their help... I was ON FIRE.

I called my mom to ask for help. I explained what happened and asked her and my dad to come meet me at the plasma center so one of them could drive Jason's car home. My mom had to leave work and go and get my dad from the gym, and then they had to drive 45 minutes to meet me at the plasma center.

I packed Cooper up and headed to the plasma center. It was closed when we arrived, and I had to bang on the door for 15 minutes until someone came and opened up. I asked to see Jason and they wouldn't let me back to see him (!). Finally a (doctor?) (nurse?) (blood technician?) came out and told me he had donated, stood up, and passed out. They got him up and took him to lay down. He tried to get up and passed out again. At this point he was on his second bag of fluids and according to the (nurse?) was feeling better. I sat in the waiting room with Cooper, and a homeless man stood outside the window and made obscene gestures at me for 20 minutes.

Finally they released Jason and around that time, my parents arrived and we all headed home.

A very frosty ride home, I should state...

I suppose I should add a disclaimer that I'm not against donating plasma -- if your intentions are pure. If you want to donate because there is a need and it will help someone, great! If you are like my husband and want to donate to make money, not so good. In his case, the negatives far outweighed the potential benefits.$40 is not worth getting mugged in the parking lot.

My husband is such a drama queen - he has told this story to everyone he knows as his "near death experience." The other day he came home and told me about a classmate of his that passed out in class and was taken to the hospital by an ambulance.

"Honey, I know exactly how (that guy) feels! I, too, have been on the brink of death!"

I think I sprained my eyes rolling them.

Dear (Fill in the Blank)

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:12:00 +0000

Dear Parent(s):

Let’s chat for a minute, shall we? Could you please explain to me why you feel the need to send completely unhealthy and unnecessary candy to daycare whenever our children have a party? For Valentine’s Day, you gifted my child pixi sticks. For Easter, he got Nerds. Why, for the love of Elmo, WHY? Do you enjoy your child running throughout your house, decimating potted plants and tearing off his diaper whilst singing the lyrics to Old McDonald? Do you enjoy the tantrums that occur when you determine that enough is enough and tear the candy from his or her sticky hands? Please consider sending a healthy snack next time. I certainly don’t need to eat 5 pounds of M&Ms and Reese’s Pieces.

My butt thanks you.

Dear Daycare:

I’m not fooled by your sign up sheets for the Easter (or Halloween, or Christmas, or Valentine’s Day) party. My child does not drink Sprite, nor should any of the other 2 year olds in the classroom. Nor does he desire “Flaming Hot Cheetos” or "Cool Ranch Doritos”. I’m also certain Cooper did not request chocolate covered doughnuts for dessert. What happened to fruit trays? Ham sandwiches?

I’ve got my eye on you.

Dear Target:

You know I love you and your holiday themed goodies. I’m all about the Easter decorations, but seriously? $1 for 6 plastic eggs? At that price, and Easter egg hunt would cost me about $100. I’ll just mosey on down to Wal-Mart, where I can get a pack of 75 eggs for $4.

Thanks anyway!

Dear Driver,

When you are driving through a parking lot and you see arrows pointing both up and down, that means you can drive both ways through the lot. Therefore, you driving right down the middle of the aisle and then acting all offended because I *dare* drive towards you to *gasp* park means you are a complete moron. Move over!

Dear Driver #2,

Don’t pull up to the pump and park. Pull up to the pump and get gas, sure. But when there is a line for gas, don’t pull up, go inside for 10 minutes, and then come outside to fill up your tank. I don’t care if you are buying $40 of MegaMillions tickets. You weren’t going to win anyway. I shall shank your tires.

I wish I was kidding.

Dear Manager,

When I ask to speak with you because my service was poor and my food was burnt, the correct response to my complaint is not “Well, no one else has had anything negative to say today!”

Seriously? I have something negative to say. Trust me, I will be saying it to all my friends and family.

Who do you want to write to today?

Introducing...

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:15:00 +0000

Hey friends! I have some exciting news for you today.

When I told you guys that I was canceling 2 On Tuesday indefinitely, I heard from so many of you who said you would miss it and that you hoped I would reconsider. I did a lot of thinking about why 2 On Tuesday wasn't as "successful" as I hoped it would be, and honestly, a lot of that was because of me. Truly, I did not have the time to dedicate to a linky party, and I decided if I was going to bring it back that I would need to bring on a co-host to help me stay organized, return comments, and basically keep my head straight.

So, friends, please let me introduce you to my co-host, Cole from All The Small Stuff! Cole is no stranger to linky parties - she hosts the popular Tuesdays at the Table, which is a great tool for finding new and yummy recipes. Cole is a very good friend of mine, and she has come up with some super fabulous questions for the month of April. There is one difference - the linky will now take place on Thursday, and will be called 3 On Thursday.

Sound good? I hope so! Please come back and participate on Thursday! This week's question comes from Cole, and is the following:

With the recent MegaMillions hoopla, there's been a lot of dreaming about what we'd do with all that money. What are three things on your "if I won the lottery" list?

I am also very excited about another project I have coming your way. I'm teaming up with two of my favorite bloggers and tweeters, Michelle from Stuttering Shell and Lis from Beach Bum and Baby. We'll be bringing you a vlog series that we're calling the Mommylogues.

Mommylogues will ask all the questions about pregnancy and motherhood that no one wants to ask or answer. We'll be taking about the best and worst of pregnancy, worst parenting moments, relationship woes, and sex. Yes, sex. We're going there.

We'll have more details for you later this week, hopefully!

I really hope you guys will participate!

I also wanted to let you know that Cole is hosting a Flip Flop Swap! You can find more information here.

MeMe time!

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 07:09:00 +0000

MeMes are great for days when you lack blogging inspiration, like today. Won't you play along?

I give you money and send you into the grocery store to pick up 5 items. You can only pick one thing from the following departments. What do you pick?

Produce: Bananas

Bakery: Chocolate doughnuts

Meat: Fresh salmon

Frozen Foods: Asparagus

Dairy: Coffee creamer

Let's say we're heading out for a weekend getaway. You're only allowed to bring 3 articles of clothing with you. So, what's in your bag?

I’d skip the trip. Seriously, there is no way I could only pack three things. If I absolutely had to, I would pack two dressings and leggings.

If I was to listen in on your conversations throughout the day, what 5 phrases or words would I be most likely to hear?

"This is Andrea; how may I help you?"
"No, Cooper. Don't touch/eat that!"
"Babe, can you get me a glass of water?" (I say this to Jason every.single.night before bed.)
"Hey, girl!" (I say this is everyone... even boys.)
"Gimme a kiss!" (Said to Cooper. Jason wishes I would say it more to him.)

What three things do you find yourself doing every single day? What things would put you in a bad mood if you didn’t get to do them?

Every day I drink some sort of caffinated beverage - either coffee or an ice cold Pepsi. I check my emails, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. I also read for at least 30 minutes before bed.

If you had a three hour block where no one was around, what 5 things might we find you doing?

Take a nap.
Take a nap.
Take a nap.
Wander the aisles of Target.
Take a nap.

You are headed to the zoo, but it looks like it might start raining. What three exhibits do you rush to see first?

I love the lions, sea lions, and monkeys.

What four (live) television shows do you wish would gift you free tickets?

Oprah, which I know is no longer on the air. I wish I could have been to her Favorite Things show!
Dancing with the Stars
So You Think You Can Dance
American Idol

If someone offered to buy you a triple dipper ice cream cone, what three flavors would you choose?

I’d pick rocky road, chocolate, and strawberry.

Imagine you lost your purse at a retail store. When you go to pick it up, the cashier asks you to name five things that are inside it to prove it is yours. What do you say?

Fruit snacks for Cooper
Coach wristlet stuffed with all my discount cards
Coupon organizer with absolutely no coupons in it
Makeup pouch with about 10 lipsticks and 12 lip glosses
Various nail polish bottles and a small container of polish remover

Imagine you are at a job fair. You’re asked what careers you would like to pursue. Assuming you had the talents for said careers, how would you respond? (List four.)

Makeup Artist
Guidance Counselor
Personal Shopper
Stay At Home Mom

If you could speak with your 16 year old self, what four things would you say?

I’d say that size 12 is not fat. I’d say that the things you agonize about now won’t matter one bit in a couple of years. I’d tell myself that yes, there is a man out there that will love you just as you are. Lastly, I’d tell myself to always think about the future consequences of your actions, because you could be paying those consequences for years.

Rest in Peace, beloved iPhone

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 18:55:00 +0000

What a week! Oh yeah... it's only Wednesday.

So Monday was a normal day. Busy day at work, very stressful, and I was glad for the clock to hit 5 and head home. I picked up groceries, picked up Cooper, and headed home.

My very sweet husband helped me unload the car and reached inside the passenger side of my car to grab my iPhone... and then this happened.

I'm not kidding when I say my heart just sank to my knees.

It's no secret that I'm a *bit* attached to my phone. I'm on it all the time. It's just so much fun. Whispers: I even sleep with it. (No joke. I use it as my alarm and keep it in the bed with me.)

So I was a tad upset when that up there went down. Poor hubs... he genuinely didn't mean to do it, and he felt bad that it happened. (I know this because he didn't even b&m when I told him how much our deductible was.)

Thankfully (thankfully?) I have insurance, which honestly is a rip off. Y'all with TMobile or AT&T have got it made, from what I've heard. Verizon doesn't handle its own insurance - it runs through an outside company. If you have insurance, you pay what you originally paid Verizon for a new phone. (For my 32G, that was $199.). If you don't have insurance, you'd pay the retail value of a new iPhone (which is something ridiculous like $600.) I will say that I called and made my claim on Monday at 5:30, and I had a new phone by Tuesday at 5:30. And the silver lining is that they don't make the iPhone 4 anymore, so I got upgraded to the 4s. Yay Siri!

I wish I could rename her. She shall be called henceforth Princess Counseula Banana Hammock.

Anywhoodles, I realized exactly how attached I am to my phone when I was not able to use it for 24 hours. I could use it, I suppose, if I did not mind getting glass shards in my thumbs and ears.

I confess I did use it... a little. Totally worth the tweezer time.

The process of transferring to a new phone was painless, except for the fact that I lost the pictures on my phone. They are on my computer, but I miss being able to thumb through all my old pictures on my phone. I know I could transfer them, but it seems like a giant pain in the butt.

Anyone else ever shattered their iPhone screen? Have your broken it beyond repair? Did it bother you to be unplugged for awhile?

FTC Guidelines & Blogger Endorsements

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:28:00 +0000

I, like any other blogger, have at some point in time considered blogging for money. Here’s a little insight into my thought process on this topic:

I love blogging. Why shouldn’t I make a little extra cash while doing what I love?

I spend so much time on the internet. Making some money would justify all the time I spend online.

$100 a month would be great fun money!

Others bloggers do it; why shouldn’t I?

I’ve had three paid posts in the past six months: here, here, and here. Each paid in a range from $40-$75. (One I still haven’t been paid for, actually.) (Hmmmm…)

I’ve been very selective about what I put on my blog. For the sponsored posts I’ve done, I’ve agreed to complete them because the subject matter fit my blog. There have been campaigns I’ve been approached about that just didn’t make sense for me or my readers. (I’m talking about you, needlepoint belts, and you, clothing boutique that clothes sizes 2-10.) Before my blog makeover, I didn’t indicate on my blog I was even open to advertising, and yet I still got an average of 10 emails a month asking for text links, free reviews, or product mentions.

I don’t think advertising/sponsorship is bad. That isn’t what this post is about. What this post is about is what you should know if you decide to open up your blog to sponsored posts, reviews, or advertising.

FTC Guidelines clearly state that “material connections between advertisers and endorsers must be disclosed.” The post of a blogger who receives cash or in-kind payment is considered an endorsement. In other words, if you receive something for free from a company in return for a review, you must disclose this relationship. If you receive cash from a company to write what is considered a sponsored post, you must disclose this relationship. This doesn’t just include your blog – if you are being paid to tweet about something (or post a Facebook status) you must inform your readers of your intentions.

There have been a slew of agencies pop up online recently who aim to connect bloggers with review opportunities. However, what you find when you sign up for these companies (I’m talking about you, Blogvertise) is that what they really want is for you to put a text link in a blog post. If you are not familiar with this type of post, it is where you insert a hyperlink (where you click on a word and it takes you to a website) into a post. It could be an everyday, routine blog post. Or the company could ask you to write about log cabins in Romania and insert three text links (they give you the URLs they want to link to) within your post.

I, personally, don’t care for and will not write these posts. I’m not going to slam you if you do – it just isn’t for me. What I will say is that I’ve been asked repeatedly to do these types of posts, and every time I am asked to do so I am instructed by the agency not to add a disclosure statement to the bottom of my post.

Let’s review really quick: if you receive compensation (goods or money) for writing something, YOU MUST DISCLOSE THE RELATIONSHIP. Period.

So these companies are not only asking you to be untruthful to your readers but they are knowingly asking you to do something that is in violation of the FTC Guidelines. It isn’t fair to your readers, and it isn’t fair to you – because you are the one taking ownership of what you are doing by posting it on your blog.

So what happens if you don’t include a disclosure statement?

Well, I’m not sure. I don’t think you are going to get arrested by any means. Chances are you’ll do it and nothing will happen. Well, except possibly damaging your relationship with your readers and ruining future advertising opportunities with reputable companies that might come your way.

My advice? Avoid such agencies. Heck, avoid text linking opportunities. If someone asks you to write a post and says they don’t want you to add a disclosure statement, run far far away.

If you do decide to go the sponsored post route, seek out a reputable advertising agency. I’ve worked with The Clever Network and with SITS with good results. The Clever Network includes a disclosure statement for you to use in the contract you sign prior to writing your post.

I hope this helps. I’ve certainly not an expert on the subject by any means, and I’m not trying to present myself as one. If you have any questions, feel free to ask and I will seek out someone who is smarter than me to answer.

Disclosure: I was not paid to write this post. I’ve not getting any kind of referral credit from the companies/agencies I mentioned in this post. In fact, I purposely didn’t link to them so you would know I’m not trying to get you to sign up for anything. I am in no way getting compensated for this post. The opinions are all my own.

Colors From The Capitol

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 02:21:00 +0000

So, who is planning on going to see The Hunger Games tonight or this weekend? I will either be seeing it Sunday or early next week, and I am so excited! It is no secret that I love, love, love The Hunger Game series and I am very excited to see if the movie will do the book justice.

As you all know, I am very much a nail polish addict, and when I heard that China Glaze was coming out with a polish collection to coincide with the movie, I knew I would snatch every single one right off the shelves.

Source

The polishes did not disappoint. I received them in late February, and I’ve been wanting to share them with you every since.

I present the Colors From The Capitol vlog! I’ll share with you the tie between the polishes and the books (each polish correlates with one of the Districts!) and show you swatches.

As promised in the vlog, here are more detailed pictures.

Sorry for the picture quality. I can’t find my Rebel power cord, so I had to use my iPhone.

Dress Me Up

Smoke and Ashes

I was not able to swatch all the polishes yet, but this blog has great swatches if you’d like to see what they actually look like on the nail.

What do you think? Will you buy any of these polishes? Are you looking forward to the release of the movie?

Linking up for The Nail Files! Click the button to visit the host.

2012 Goals–Checking In

noreply@blogger.com (AndreaLeigh) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 11:00:00 +0000

I thought it would be fun to check in on my 2012 goals – or in other words, make you laugh until you pee your pants. Sorry, Shawn… I suck at life.

I originally divided my goals into categories, in case you were wondering. The black italicized are my original comments. The red is what I’m writing today.

HOME

1. Hang pictures/etc. on the walls.

Four pictures were hung on the walls of the living room… so yay me? Or really, yay husband. I just supervised.

2. Decorate the dining room. Purchase a new light fixture for the dining room.

No progess.

3. Paint the downstairs bathroom.

The turquoise swatch I painted in July is still going strong.

4. Decorate the playroom.

If by decorate you mean throw all the toys in the room and let Cooper do his worst, then yes. Complete.

When I showed my husband this list, he laughed at my goals. “Goals? Those aren’t goals. They are to-do lists.” WHATEVER, HUSBAND. I haven’t gotten it done in 6 months so to me it is a goal.

Let’s review how much I procrastinate, shall we? When we first moved in, I painted a swatch of turquoise paint on the downstairs bathroom wall to see if I liked the color. That was in July. That swatch is still in the bathroom. I even purchased the paint and supplies, and I still haven’t moved farther than that swatch.

ORGANIZATION

5. Get craft supplies organized.

Negative.

6. Get papers/filing organized and keep it that way!

Jason started on this but now I must go behind him and undo what he has done.

7. Set up a filing & bill paying system.

That’s on the list for this week.

8. Set up a family calendar.

Well, I hung it on the side of the fridge, so I’m counting this one as complete. Go me!

9. Create a home organization and meal planning binder.

No.

10. Make a running list of pantry/freezer items.

Not at all.

11. Organize/clean garage.

Ditto.

12. Organize the master closet and keep it that way!

Ha.

13. Do laundry 2x a week. Fold as soon as it comes out of the dryer and put it away.

Girl, please.

14. Prepare breakfast/lunches at night.

I’m going to count this as halfway met because Jason does pack his lunch (or I make him lunches when I cook) daily.

15. Put together Cooper’s and my outfits each night (including accessories) before I go to bed.

What a joke.

My garage is a place where things go to die. Roaches, ants, and broken electronics are never seen again. It will be a miracle if I pull this one off.

HEALTH/BEAUTY

16. Cook/eat at home at least 5 nights per week.

Some weeks yes, some weeks no.

17. Take breakfast/lunch to work instead of eating out – at least 3-4 days per week.

Big fail at this one.

18. Lose 40 pounds in 2012.

I’m ignoring you, goal #18.

19. Take better care of my skin.

Yes!

20. Keep my nails painted at all times.

Totally happening.

We eat out… a lot. Like a shameful amount of money is spent on eating out. I’m embarrassed to say how much. Which is why my butt looks like cottage cheese, I’m guessing.

I’m getting the wrinkles, y’all. Must avoid old lady lines in forehead.

Jason laughed at #20…. but I feel polished when my nails are polished. (Hah.)

COOPER

21. Organize Cooper’s closet. Put outgrown clothes & shoes in bins.

I bought the bins. Does that count?

22. Create a “lesson plan” for Cooper. Focus on one topic per week. Spend time each day on that topic.

If by lesson plan you mean Dora and Diego, then yes. Check that one off my list.

23. Do one craft project with Cooper per week.

He’s really enjoying those crayons I bought him.

24. If weather allows, spend time outside with Cooper each day.

This one is on hold until the pollen passes us by. Even stepping outside sends me into an asthma fit.

25. Do one family activity together per week (park, zoo, Monkey Joe’s, etc).

Hmmm. Halfway complete? We haven’t ventured outside much because of the weather but we do play at CFA, McDonald's, or Monkey Joe’s at least once a week.

26. Create a meal plan for Cooper. Introduce new & healthy foods.

No.

27. Create a chore chart for Cooper.

Nope.

28. Set limits on TV watching for Cooper. Watch 2 shows per day (1 hr of TV).

For the most part, yes, although he does watch more on the weekends.

29. Read a bible story to Cooper each night.

We were doing well on this, but he’s in a stage where he won’t sit still for books right now.

I know #22 sounds like I don’t teach my kid, but I really need to focus more on specific topics to feel like he’s learning something from me.

Coops has turned into quite the picky eater, and I must expand his current palette of fruit snacks and Cliff bars into something slightly healthier.

We have a tendency to hibernate on weekends, so #25 will force us to get out of the house and do something productive as a family.

#28 – Cooper is capable of picking up his toys, filling up the pups food bowl, and helping me unload the silverware out of the dishwasher. I figure this will be a fun way to teach him age-appropriate responsibility.

FINANCES

30. Really work on only buying what I NEED and not what I want.

Yeah, not so much.

31. Discuss purchases with Jason.

No. Total fail.

Jason busted a gut when he read these. “52 goals and only 2 are about money?!” Well, husband, they are an important 2, no?

FAMILY

32. Have a family meeting one time per week to check in and discuss goals/schedule/finances/etc.

We haven’t done this formally, no.

33. Do a weekly devotional with Jason.

No.

34. Have one date night (out) per month. Have one date night (in) per week.

I think we’ve been out alone about 4 times in 2012.

35. Take Cooper to visit his great-grandparents at least once a month.

No. Ugh. Must do better!

36. Be more “in the moment” when I’m with my family.

I’ve actually gotten worse since I wrote this, I think. I blame Instagram and Draw Something. Dear Andrea, you don’t constantly need to be connected to your phone.

37. Do a small act of love/encouragement for Jason per week.

No. Does sex count though? Then… no.

38. Compromise more in my marriage.

Jason says no, I say yes. Compromise: still in progress.

#36 – aka put the dang phone down and stop tweeting during family time. The end.

SPIRITUAL

39. Spend time in prayer each day. Pray for others as much as I pray for myself.

Work in progress.

40. Join a church!

No.

41. Read a devotional daily.

Must do better.

#39 – I’ve noticed lately my prayers are 90% me and 10% others. Me thinks I need to worry about others as much as I worry about myself. Self, it is not all about you.

BLOG

42. Blog at least 4 times per week.

Not quite, but I was close in both January and February.

43. Create a Facebook fan page for my blog.

Complete. Have you “liked” My Chihuahua Bites yet?

44. Set aside time each week to return comments. Be better about responding to blog email.

Working on this one.

45. Explore ways to monetize my blog.

Eh. On the fence about whether or not I’m going to follow through with this one.

Are y’all laughing at #44? I promise to try harder!

FRIENDS

46. Send 4 handwritten notes per month to friends.

No. Although I’m doing decently with birthday presents.

47. Get involved in some sort of women’s group.

No.

48. Put myself out there when it comes to friendships.

I’m trying! I have discovered Voxer and it has been a great way to communicate with several blog/Twitter friends.

I am so shy when it comes to friendships. Friendships are a little like dating, I think, and it involves making that crucial leap from “we should get together one day!” to “hey, want to go for coffee on Thursday?” I need to work on putting myself out there more when it comes to friendships.

OTHER

49. Take more pictures of Cooper!

I take lots of pictures with my iPhone, but I rarely bust out the big camera.

50. Create photo books of Cooper’s first and second year.

No.

51. Participate in project 365.

I made it one day. Seriously. One day!

52. Learn to use Picnik.

Since it is closing, this one is a big FAIL.

So there you go. I think I need to read through this weekly to remind myself of what I want to work on.

How are you doing with your 2012 goals?