First, here is the winner from the nursing cover giveaway. I used random.org, but don't know how to capture the picture...so I copied and pasted the results, and here they are:
True Random Number Generator Min: 1 Max: 19 Result: 13 Powered by RANDOM.ORG
Number 13 is Laura of The Bignell Family. So come on over, Laura and learn the next step to getting your new nursing cover. Congratulations, chica! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Now I have not one, but two more giveaways for you all! Crazy, huh? The ladies offering the prizes for you today are sponsors of the Frazier Field Swap. If you missed out on the most recent swap, shed not a tear...there will be another in November! You can follow the Frazier Field Swap blog to stay informed.
First up is Myla of Pursenickety. She is offering one lucky person a pair of her sunglasses. Here's how to win.
For each entry, be sure to leave a separate comment. Mandatory entry: Head to her blog, choose a pair of sunglasses, and come back to tell me which you chose.
Additional Optional Entries: (worth one entry unless otherwise stated) Follow my blog publicly (not required...stick around only if you like what you read). Add my button to your blog Tweet the giveaway with a link Blog about the giveaway with a link to this post (2 entries) Join my Blog Frog Community Start/participate a discussion in my Blog Frog Community
Next up is Kelly of Bella Be-jeweled. She has some really unique stuff, and wants to offer one lucky person a gift certificate for $20.00. Again...how to win:
For each entry, be sure to leave a separate comment. Mandatory entry: Head to her blog (via text link), look around , and come back to tell me what you would get with your certificate.
Additional Optional Entries: (worth one entry unless otherwise stated) Follow my blog publicly (not required...stick around only if you like what you read). Add my button to your blog Tweet the giveaway with a link Blog about the giveaway with a link to this post (2 entries) Join my Blog Frog Community Start/participate a discussion in my Blog Frog Community
A huge thank you to these two wonderful women for offering these prizes. Now get started! Oh...be sure to tell me for which one you are entering with each comment...you CAN enter for both!!
I was not compensated in any way, monetarily or otherwise to host these giveaways. I consider it a great opportunity to support these women.
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I'm a woman, and therefore reserve the right to be as fickle as they come. No offense. I know that's a generalization...blah, blah, blah. But seriously. This is the end of the blog, then the blog goes private, then suddenly it's back to public. Ah. I'm like the wind.
The thing is...I'm having a hard time pulling it all together into one place. I have a new blog that I have been using (though not as diligently as I should) for photography, and I had thought it would be an okay place to blog personal things too. Somehow, though, it just doesn't feel right.
This blog, my first blog, just feels right. Like that comfy old pair of jeans that fits just right. The pair you refuse to throw out even as the backside become threadbare. Yes. Just like that. So, I don't know what this means. I don't know if I'll move it all over here and blog photography, personal, and everything else in between. Or if I'll keep this place as the sounding board for the myriad of things that clutter my head. Whatever it is remains to be seen, and I'm not going to stress myself out about it. In the recent (and irritating at the time of utterance) words of my husband "I'm just going to go with the flow."
I'm hitchin' a ride on the Keely train again today. I know she has a new button, but I'm a rebel. I like the old one because it links back to her blog. So maybe I'm not a rebel so much as I am lazy and I just don't have the energy to cut/copy the new button and create a link too. You can play along by simply answering the following questions in a post of your own and linking it up to Keely's blog. Go ahead...give it a try.
1. What's your favorite Easter candy? Toss up between the two most disgustingly awesome candies ever. Cadburry Creme Eggs, or Marshmallow Peeps. I'd have to go with the Creme Egg. I could go for one right now.
2. Who do you think is cleaner..men or women? This is a loaded question. Honestly I think it depends on the person. I have seen absolute slobs from both categories. I think my husband and I are equally matched in the clean department.
3. Which do you prefer..wordy blog posts or ones with pictures? My answer is not a definite one or the other. In general, I like the posts that are not ultra long, however...when it is well written and keeps my attention, then I like it. Pictures are always great, whether the post is long or short.
4. Were you popular in highschool? I was in this strange sort of limbo land. I had friends from the "cool crowd," and ones from the "not so cool crowd." I honestly felt like I could relate to the uncool kids better than my other friends. Not sure what that makes me. After all this time, still trying to figure out where I belong :)
5. What's your bra size? All I'm going to say to this, is that after nursing my two little ones for over a year each...my breasts could now be featured on the front cover of National Geographic. How's that for a mental image?
6. How many states have you lived in? Four. California, Arizona, Massachusettes, back to Arizona, Colorado, and back to Arizona...in that order.
7. What's one blog you read every day? I don't know that there is one blog that I read every day. There are several that I read each time they post, but it's not daily usually. I know this is all in an effort to get me to name drop. Just look at the blogs I have listed on the right side of my blog. I really love them all. They are the ones I frequent.
8. Peanut butter or Nutella? It took me forever to try Nutella, and I do think it's tasty...but I have to go with good ol' peanut butter. Love it in my oatmeal.
So, any of you braver than I am with the whole bra question? Really, that's just one tid bit that I don't feel like shouting from the rooftops...or putting in a blog post ;) Regardless, you can answer any or all of the questions right here in the comments if you decide not to do a post of your own.
Recently I have read many posts which give advice on the "how to's" of blogging. Don't fret, this is not one of them (though I do have some thougts on the matter). I actually like reading those posts. Oftentimes they offer some helpful tips on how to improve things. Who doesn't want to improve? I especially like it when it comes from the author of a blog I truly enjoy. It's like free advice on how to become better received.
There is, however, one thing I don't like about some of these posts that I have read. I don't want to be told about what I should or shouldn't blog. I already have my own parameters. For example, (with this minor exception) I will not blog about my husband's ex-wife. Off limits...for me. Does that mean I will think poorly of another blogger who does chose to write about that topic? Absolutely not. In fact, I quite enjoy it at times because I can certainly relate to some of the situations. Some people are very religious, and like to express it openly for all to read. Again, not necessarliy my comfort zone, but not going to turn me away either. Often there are some very thought provoking posts on the subject...and it doesn't matter what religion it is, or how they write the post. If it's not for me, I skip it. No harm no foul.
I love my blog. I love my readers. I love my avid commenters! I want to be able to write whatever I feel, and not have to think about whether I may be offending someone. Isn't that what blogging is? A space of our very own to share our thoughts? What fun would it be if we were all cookie cutters of eachother, spitting out the same tired thoughts on the same tired subjects? I would lose interest in no time.
One of the many wonders of blogging is all the different personalities behind the blogs. Some I turn to and I know I will always get a laugh. Some usually leave me thinking of something in a way I hadn't before...and others are just plain fun. Do I love every post, every time? No. That would just be impossible. So, on those posts, I take a pass and come back again another day.
If you are anything like I am, and you have worried about your posts and what others might think...I say stop it. It's your blog. Your space. Make it yours. Give it a life by breathing into it your voice...whatever that may be. When you write what's in your heart, it will allow others to really connect on a different level. Some of my favorite blogs are unabashed about sharing anything and everything. Let's be clear, I am not talking about this tired old line about blogging boldly. I am simply saying don't censor based on what you think others may like or not. You will never please the entirety of the masses...but those who do connect will enjoy it all the more. I certainly do.
...with my new blog design that is! So in love actually that I have decided to spread some of it to a fellow blogging buddy. One of my followers (old faithful or brand new) will have the chance to win the exact same package I got from Jenna at Bloggy Blog Designz. Spectacular...is how I would describe my experience with them. Amazing...the job they did. Jenna is super fast, super patient, and super competent! This design far exceeded my expectations. It is everything I knew I wanted and everything I had no idea I wanted all rolled into one.
So, as for my contest (not giveaway, and I will explain the distinction). Because I like her so much, and I want to spread my holiday good cheer, I will be paying for half of the package that I got (you will get everything you see on my blog...in your own design of course). Jenna graciously agreed to give the other half away for free. This is all about spreading the love, so only my followers will have their chance at this one (applies to new and old).
Rules are: 1. You must do a blog post about the contest with a link back to my blog and Bloggy Blog Designz (you should comment to let me know you have done that). 2. You have to refer others this way! (explained below) 3. The person with the most referrals by the contest end date, will win! That simple.
Now, what qualifies as a referral? Simply having people come over and comment on this post. Be sure that they USE YOUR NAME (or I won't know who sent them and where to count it). If they decide to follow it will count as two referrals for you. New followers will have the chance to win too by following these same rules. That is why this is a contest, and not just a giveaway...there is an actual tangible way to win, rather than just a random draw. So hurry up and get started. The contest will begin now and end January 1st.
Maybe, just maybe I will throw in a runner up prize just to be a little cheeky. Have fun and good luck.
Well, I am. So it should be no surprise that I have been sitting on these awards. I have recently been given a few new awards and I'm plumb tickled (I don't really say plumb tickled in case you were wondering, it just came out, and I am leaving it). Nicole of the Young Mama Blog gifted me with these two awards, and Heidi at From 3 to 5 also gave me the Sweet Award a while back:
With the Happy 101 and the Lemonade Stand, there are instructions to list things about yourself. I did that here. Please be sure to go show Nicole and Heidi some support and visit their blog. We all like a little lovin'. If you are a follower who is new to my blog as of January, then I am giving you both of these awards. I appreciate you!
Shell from Things I Can't Say blessed me with the Kreativ Blogger Award. Thank you, Shell. If you haven't checked her out yet, please do so...and tell her I said hi! This award stipulates that I share 7 new things and then pass it on to (7) other bloggers. As for 7 things about me: 1. My favorite veggie is the artichoke. 2. I used to pray for small boobs when I was young (what?) 3. I once pooped my pants when I was 7 and couldn't climb down from the tree I was in fast enough to make it to the bathroom (I'm digging deep here). 4. I love the smell of new car tires...like in the store, I generally don't make a habit of sniffing the tires on the actual vehicle. 5. I love a good oatmeal stout. 6. I am currently pondering whether we need a new an addition to our family (yikes). 7. I blush super easily. As in...a cute boy says hello and my face immediately flushes an obvious shade of red. I am passing this award to Melis at The Zoo Keeper's Diary, not only is she creative, but she writes so stinkin' well. Her posts are always a pleasure to read. I know it says 7, but...please cut me a break, there are some crazy numbers going on with these things, and I really want to get the post done, and the awards passed to others.
This Beautiful Blogger Award was given to me by Becky of In the Trenches, Shandal at My Life in 3D Again, please go give them some love. And, ladies, thanks for thinking of me! You're the best. This one has the very same rules as the one above. So re-read it if you feel you are being jipped. I am going to pass this one on to Sonora at Twinfinity..I am a very big fan of hers, and Allison at Life of a Tater Tot Mom...she's so down to earth, you feel like you are reading an old friend's thoughts.
The circle of friends award was given to me by Shandal at My Life in 3D since I am a fellow P90Xer...and yes, Shandal...you are a great support where that is concerned, so thank you so much. I think the BEST thing about this award is that there are no rules. NONE. But I want to pass it on anyway. So I am giving this one to Drea at Peanut Butter Jelly Days, Heidi at From 3 to 5, Shell at Things I Can't Say, Melis at The Zoo Keeper's Diary, Becky at In the Trenches, Kate at Kate's Life, Liz at Harmony Song, Keely at MannLand5, Amanda at Outnumbered by Testosterone, Nicole at A New Normal, Sonora at Twinfinity and Just a Mom at Mommy Molecules. I think you are all wonderful, and you most always make me laugh, smile or cry!
Finally, this Best Blog Award was bestowed upon me by Shelly at Picture Perfect Embossing. Once again, if I can kindly ask you to go visit her blog and show her some support, I would be so grateful. Thank you Shelly, for giving me this fun award. Now, with it I am supposed to pass it on to 15 (gulp) other bloggers! Holy cow. Um, yeah, I just can't make time for all those links, so here's the deal...
I am going to do my own version of what others have done. Instead of saying, if you are a follower, or if you are reading this, etc...I am going to say, if your blog is less than 6 months old, then scoop this one up! There you have it.
Okay, you all asked, and my husband answered. One of the qualifiers to get him to do this was that I could in no way edit what he wrote. So this is all him, without any meddling from me. I didn't say, however, that I wouldn't add my two cents if I felt it warranted. Just saying...and if my two cents does show up anywhere, it will be in orange. Now, on to your questions and his answers.
Melis of The Zookeeper's Diary asked: If your wife could have any profession BESIDES being a SAHM, what would you want it to be? And why? And do you read her blog? What do you think of it?And finally, would you ever consider moving your family to where I live and buying the house next-door so we can all be IRL friends? Is that weird?
Any profession – A photographer seeing as she has an eye and a passion for it.
Do I read her Blog? – Are you all kidding?…hardly ever, but I don’t need to…I live it everyday.
What do I think of her blog? – I have always thought her to possess a true gift when it comes to that of the written form…On the occasion when I curl up with a cup of coffee and my computer to catch up on the latest prose of “Arizonamamma,” she confirms my thoughts.
Would I consider moving to be your neighbors and is that weird? – I know you are joking…
Keely from MannLand5 wanted to know: What made you fall in love with your wife? How did you 2 meet?Will you have more kids? :-) What do all do for fun as a family? What do you think your wife's best physical feature is? What do you do for a living?
What made me fall in love with your wife? – her independence, beauty, charm and her complete acceptance of me.
How did we meet? -We worked together on an outside sales team.
Will we have more kids? – I can’t answer this one on my own…AZMAMMA has a pretty big stake in this answer as well…however, if it were up to me I think that there will be no more children conceived.
What do we all do for fun as a family? – Every Saturday morning we get up just as the sun is about to rise in the East…saying East is silly…doesn’t it always rise in the East? Anyway, we ALL get up just before the sun rises…we bring plenty of water, lunch and our trimming shears…we hike 13 miles (AZMAMMA and I take turns pulling our two youngest children in the wagon, they certainly couldn’t make the trek on their own) to the llama farm and we sneak into their grazing area….On even days AZMAMMA lasso’s three of these creatures while I teach the children how to shave cool designs into their fur….on odd days, we switch places…The kids find this absolutely hysterical and the llamas, well they don’t seem to mind one bit either….On the way home we usually dig 2 random holes with a large baking spoon (I don’t find this particular activity “fun” at all, but the rest of the family does and sometimes we gotta do what we gotta do). (If you all think this is serious, then you haven't been reading my blog for very long...I would never let anyone use my baking spoon to dig holes).
What do I think my wife’s best physical feature is? – AZMAMMA was very blessed when it comes to her ‘4th point of contact,” her rear end. This, in my humble opinion, is her best physical feature….****This is where I must put my disclaimer, I am sure that ALL of you were hoping for some romantic answer like the beautiful sparkle in her eyes when she is truly happy, or the curls in her hair when she styles it my favorite way…maybe you even wanted me to answer with the color of her lips after she has had a glass of wine…but what can I say? I am an ass man and even after two children that shit ROCKS!!!!(Sorry, there should have been a disclaimer regarding the PG13 language...this is the only spot though).
What do I do for a living? – I work in a sales management job for ADP
Dondi at Confessions of a Housewife asked: Westpoint. Did you like it, was it worth it...I wanna know. West Point is one of those places that is wonderful to be from and not be at…but looking back, in a warped demented type of way, I did enjoy it. I certainly took it seriously and internalized the discipline. Was it worth it? Yes, I would not go back and do it any differently
Liz from Harmonysong wanted to know: Most favorite (material) gift you have ever given Mamma? I would have to say the amethyst heart and chain that I got for her on her 1st Mother’s Day. (I can't resist...I have to explain a little more why this one is so great. It has amethyst which is Addyson's birthstone, and a tiny bit of diamond, which is mine...it was the most perfect Mother's Day gift ever...very thoughtful).
Julie of The Peanut Gallery kindly asked: What is the weirdest thing that your lovely wife has done since you've known her? I can choose only one?…That hardly seems fair as many situations I find myself in with her are weird, not to mention all the stories I have heard of the weird antics of this person…and they are weird because she makes them so. I have struggled with this one and I thought, could it be the time that she clucked like a rooster as she was following behind a group of people? Could it be the time that she dissected a water dog while bored on a fishing trip? Could it be the time she shouted a reminder out of the car window as I trekked through the busy supermarket parking lot, “Don’t forget your hemorrhoid cream!”…No, these are all weird, but I gotta say one of her finest moments occurred on this blog. Her post about peeing while she laughs was a little uncomfortable for me. Many of you may disagree, but the whole time I was reading that rather strange post, I couldn’t help but be mortified. I mean I kept thinking to myself, “Why is she sharing this with the whole blog reading world? Hell, I didn’t even know that she was stricken with this rather strange condition!”….NOW THAT’S JUST WEIRD! (To save you the trouble you can read the post here...it's not as bad as he says...I never claimed to pee when I laugh).
Kate of Kate's Life wants to know: 1) What does your wife do or say that just makes you melt? 2) What do you love the most about her? 3) Do you have a nickname for her? 4) Is there a limit to how many questions I can ask?
OK KATE IT’S FINALLY YOUR TURN…..
What does AZMAMMA say that makes me melt? – You wanna (bow-chicka-bow-bow)…?(Kate, I never say bow chicka bow bow...not ever).
What do I love most about her? – The wonderful mother that she is…
Do I have a nickname for her? – No I do not.
Is there a limit to how many questions you can ask? – you just reached it…
Desert Rose asked: Seeing how AZ Mamma and I are fellow Arizonans...just what is it that she likes to do around these parts?
She likes to spend time with her family in Phoenix…she is extremely close to her family
His sister Melissa asked: Andy, if you were stranded on a island with one of your siblings, which one would you rather it be and why? Seeing as how this was asked by one of my siblings I can’t, in good conscience, answer this. A very fine gentlemen recently advised me to steer clear of offending any one of my siblings, because if you do it may permanently damage a relationship no matter how many “I’m sorry’s” you try to throw at said situation…
Drea of Peanut Butter Jelly Days asked: Honestly, what do you think of your wife blogging? do you think it has taken too much time from everyday things, or do you see it as a good outlet for her?
Honestly what do I think of my wife blogging? – She enjoys it…I say blog away
Do I think that it has taken too much time from everyday things or do I see it as a good outlet for her? Sometimes I feel it interferes with our time together…She never lets it interfere with the childrens' time…but when I ask her if I can get some of her time she obliges…As far as a good outlet for her – sure, I guess so.
Scott of This Daddy's Blog asked: Being a sports fan the best event I have ever been to was the Army-Navy game many years ago at the Meadowlands since you were part of that tradition, besides that what is the best sporting event you have ever attended? Back when I was 12 my Dad took me to a rodeo. I thought that the rodeo was pretty cool, but the idea that pops and I got to spend some time together – that was truly spectacular. He is one of two men that I truly idolize in life…(His dad really is a wonderful man, and though this may make it seem so, was not absent from Andy's life...he did travel a lot in the military, but Andy just treasures any and all time with his dad).
Heide of From 3 to 5 asked: Do you love Seinfeld as much as AZ Mamma? What is your favorite TV show?What is your favortie thing to do in your free time? Did you contribute to Addyson and Colton's name selection? Az Mamma is quirky about the sheets, what is your quirk? Do you leave the seat up? What is your favorite room in your house? Are you originally from AZ? If not what brought you there? If you are from there is there any where else you would like to live? Can the AZ Mamma come visit me?
Do I love Seinfeld as much as AZMAMMA? Does she even like that show? Hahahaha….I like that show, is it as much as her? Not sure :-)
AZ MAMMA is quirky about the sheets…Holy S**t she IS quirky about the sheets! I don’t have quite the breadth of quirks that she does.
Do I leave the seat up? Only on purpose.(No he doesn't...he's very good about it).
What is my favorite room in the house? Our eat-in kitchen…some of the most scrumptious things in the entire world are created in that space just awaiting my consumption…but more importantly, AZMAMMA and I both agree that sitting down as a family for dinner is extremely important. Over the last five years some of my most cherished memories are those that were shared and created while we have broken bread over dinner…
Am I originally from AZ? Nope, my Dad was a career Marine so I don’t have an original home…I ended up in AZ after my short stint in the Army came to a conclusion. I found my first corporate career in PHX.
Can the AZ MAMMA come and visit you? See one of my first answers – AZMAMMA is extremely independent and does not need to ask my permission. In fact, many may say that AZMAMMA wears the pants in the family, so you may be better off asking her this question.
Lula Lola asked: If time and money weren't a factor, how would you spend the next year? And, what's he think is the coolest thing about you?
If money were not a factor how would I spend the next year? I would want to travel to Australia, Ireland, Brazil, Hawaii and Iceland… I would also like to spend several weeks with our out of state family.
Coolest thing about her? She puts up with me.
Sheila of My Crazy Life asked: Why do men start projects and then never totally complete them? Is this a question for me? If it is, my answer would be that we get distracted by women…
Abby of Murdocks Mama wanted to know: What kind of vehicles do you own? What is your favorite household chore to do/help with? What is your favorite meal that your wife makes?
What kind of vehicles do we own? We own a Ford Expedition (Our second vehicle is one issued to him through work...it's a Mercury).
What is my favorite household chore to do/help with? While I do not consider this a chore, it is a task that needs to be done -- Giving our two young children a bath and getting them ready for bed, followed up by reading them 3 stories.(He does this every night! Every.single.night.)
My favorite meal? Salmon Scallopini or Stuffed Pork Tenderloin. (Irony of this is I don't make these that often, and neither has been a Tasty Tuesday feature...yet).
That's it! This is Mamma again, and I just want to give a huge thank you to my husband for being (mostly) a good sport about this. Can I let you all in on a little secret? I did mention this idea to him in a passive way, but I never actually got his consent before I drove forward with it. He was thrilled, let me tell you! He thinks I am bound and determined to have him start a blog. In any case, I think he did a great job. Thanks again, Andy for taking the better part of an evening to get these answered. I love you!
I have been operating almost on autopilot this entire day. Nearly numb waiting for news...but praying for news like THIS. I am elated, which probably only scratches the surface of the joy MckMama and her family must feel.
I am amazed by her story, and how it has affected so many people all over the world. Crazy...this thing called blogging. Mckmama (for the very few of you who have not read her blog) is an inspiration to so many. Inspiring even in the most mundane day to day details, let alone how she has handled the situation with her youngest son, Stellan.
If I am being totally honest (and that is what I aim to be 100% of the time), she was the reason I started my blog. Not because I wanted to be like her, but because I would read her posts, and find myself with things swimming in my head. These things, aka thoughts, needed an outlet. This is mine. It matters not to me whether I have one million readers or one. I write these posts for me, and for my family...and anyone who cares to read. However, I have gotten a little off the beaten path here.
Back to what this post was all about to begin with...Mckmama. Through her blog, and with her amazing story, I have been inspired. Inspired in more ways than just to begin a blog. On a very personal level, she has inspired in me a deeper faith in God. Even if this story had had a different outcome, mine would still be the same. For that I believe a sincere thank you is in order. So...thank you, Jennifer. Your one life has touched so many.
Jeni of Frasier Fields Swap is an Arizona blogger and she is hosting a Swap on February 27th in Mesa. A swap is a great and inexpensive way to trade in some of your old stuff. To participate, you will need to drop off at least three items. They are accepting them between Thursday and Saturday, and must be there before 9am on Saturday. In addition to the items people bring, Jeni has some great spnosors lined up, who will be there with their wares. They are listed on her blog...so go have a peek. There will also be breakfast. You can click the button in this post to head over to her blog and learn all about the swap. She explains in great detail what it is, and what you can expect. It looks like a lot of fun to me! Aside from that, it's a great way to support a fellow blogger and meet in real life ;)
Here are just a few details:
Location: Fraser Fields Historic District on the front lawn of: 213 N Fraser Dr W. Mesa AZ 85203
Cost: There is a 3-item minimum to participate and a $10 participation fee. Drop off your items Thursday thru Saturday before 9am
Please RSVP either by emailing. or with Pay Pal (you can access this on her blog)
At the very least, please head over to her blog to read more about it. I know you must have some things you would like to get out of your house, right? Don't we all?
I recently put together a new website for my photography. I love it...mostly. However, there are a few things that don't sit 100% well with me. I can't quite pinpoint what they are, only that there is something...off.
It would be wonderful to have some feedback! Actually, I'd appreciate feedback both on my site, and my blog. What's great? What could be better?
My website is here: Shannon K. Photography and my blog is here Shannon K. Photography Blog.
After looking at each, maybe you could leave the feedback on the blog?? Thank you!
Bloggy Blog Designz is having a super Holiday Giveaway!!! They are giving away blog designs and all kinds of goodies. Plus ALL entrants will receive 25% off their purchase through the end of the year! Be sure to check out their website for more information, or to enter yourself. Take a look at their portfolio and packages to see what you want for Christmas ;) With 14 giveaways in all and a 25% discount, everyone is a winner! http://www.bloggyblogdesignz.com/
I don't know about you...but I would love for my blog to have a new look. I have seen some super designs by Bloggy Blog, and I am crossing my fingers that I get my chance. Anyway, what are you waiting for? Get over there and enter this giveaway!
For all you breastfeeding moms, or soon to be breastfeeding moms, or friends of breastfeeding moms...this one is for you! Cami from Covers by Camilla has offered a free nursing cover to one of my lucky readers. Cami is a sponsor a local swap that's this Saturday the 27th. Be sure to check out http://www.fraserfields.blogspot.com/ for more details. I have to say, I have a nursing cover that was given to me by my mother in law and I love it. It is not your ordinary little cover that you just drape over baby. It is just like Cami's, and I couldn't have done without it.
Each nursing cover is sewn by Cami personally and includes the following features:
lightweight cotton fabric keeps you and your baby cool
rounded boning in neckline allows eye contact between you and your baby
adjustable neck strap held securely in place with D-rings so your baby can't pull the cover down
pocket in right corner to store nursing pads or other small items
wash cloth in left corner for wiping up small messes
generous size accomodates big babies and provides full coverage for you
Here's how to win: (Separate comment for each entry please) Mandatory entry: Head over to Cami's blog and look under the shop tab. Come back and comment to let me know which cover you would choose.
Optional Entries: Follow my blog through the google follower widgit...comment
Head to my Blog Frog community and start/participate in a discussion for two entries...comment twice
Tweet with a link to this post for one entry...comment
Blog about it with a link for one entry...comment
Oh yes...and I feel compelled to mention that if you have been here for previous giveaways, there is often a little twist. I'll keep you in suspense over what that may be!
That's it. The contest will start now, and end Thursday of next week (March 4th). Good luck!
I was not compensated in any way shape or form for this giveaway. I am hosting this item because I believe in its usefulness and want to support a fellow mother in her efforts to earn extra income for her family.
Reef flip flops are my must haves. I practically live in them for most of the year. They are the most comfortable pair of flip flops I have ever worn. No initial hurting between the toes, the soles feel as if you are walking on a cloud...and they are pretty cute too. I have three pair, one of which dates back to my college years. They last that long.
You want a pair don't you? Come on...who wouldn't? Well, you are in luck. I am going to give you the chance to win some. All you have to do is come and participate in my community at the Blog Frog. Help me build it up and get it going.
So, in order to win...all you have to do is be the person with the most participations or starts to discussions there. The rules:
Minimum of three contributions, by way of adding your two cents to exsisting discussions or starting one of your own.
Discussion participation starts from this date, and will continue for at least one week. I will be sure to let you know for certain the actual end date. BUT...I hope that you will enjoy it so much, that you will continue to return even after the contest ends.
Then, comment here to let me know you are entering so I can be sure to add up how much you participated. You don't need to comment for every time you add to the discussions...just comment to let me know you are participating. You can just comment now, then head over.
You do not have to be a member of my community (though I would love it if you were), and you most certainly do not have to follow my blog. Please only do that if you like some of the other posts you see.
I happen to love the Blog Frog. It is the most interactive and fun community I have encountered thus far, and I really want to give my community a recharge. What do you say...will you help me?
P.S. This is not a sponsored post, and the picture of the flip flops is one I copied from a google search. P.S.S. Melissa G. You can play too! You don't have to have a blog ;)
Well, it was bound to happen, I suppose. I have not dedicated much time at all in the past several months to posting on this blog. Is it any wonder with all the endeavors I seem to pile on?
Writing is certainly an outlet which I enjoy immensely, so I am not giving it up entirely. I am simply shifting focus. I have dived head long into photography, and of my free time, it occupies about 90%. Part of this will be a blog centered around my journey in the photography world.
All are welcome to come and join me as I wander (sometimes aimlessly) down this path. You'll find my blog here.
For all of my family and friends (all like 3 of you!) who like to read about the every day happenings, I will still be updating on our life there as well. So please...be sure to bookmark the new site address!
For the rest of you I've "met" along the way, I certainly would like to hear from you on the new blog, but I won't have a "follow" widget, because frankly, Scarlett, I don't give a damn! :)
So Keely has a sister, Kassi. Who knew? Maybe you did, but I didn't, and I suppose that this is what this is all about. Getting to know eachother just a little bit better. These questions were originally posted by Kassi, but then Keely snakedthem, turned them into a little blog hop of sorts. Since my well of thoughts is tapped out tonight, I am playing along.
1. How old are you? I am 33...but recently told someone at the gym that I was 31. I was serious. I wasn't lying. Not intentionally. Then later, when recounting the story to my friend R, she asked why I said I was 31. It was only then that it dawned on me that I totally forgot my own age. Sigh. I suppose it's all downhill from there.
2.Where are you from and where do you live now? If by from, this means where I was born, then the answer is San Diego. If it means where did I grow up, then the answer is Arizona which is where I am now. I bet you're happy to have that mystery solved! 3. What music have you been diggin lately? When my car stereo isn't taken over by toddler tunes, I go between classic rock and country. I am lovin' Antebellum's Need You Now. 4. Favorite food(s)? Is this a joke? Like many others, I love Mexican food. Come on, you can't grow up in Arizona, and not like Mexican food. I also really like sushi. Oh, and pretty much any sort of dessert.
5. Single,married, divorced? Hitched. 5 years this coming March. Best years of my life so far ;) 6. Kids? If so, how many and how old? My step-son will be 11 in February. My daughter will turn 3 the same month, and my son will be 2 next August. 7. What are 3 blogs you read daily? Yours, yours and hers. Really? Come on. No way am I going to list just three. There are some great reads out there. I happen to like quite a few of them. 8. What is your favorite Christmas/Holiday tradition? I love Christmas. We have mostly always spent it with my Dad's side of the family. We all get together both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. In my own home, my husband and I started our tradition of decorating the weekend after Thanksgiving. I love it. 9. Lastly, if you're a blogger, how long have you been blogging and if you don't have one..how long have you been reading blogs? Funny thing, like Keely, I started out reading MckMama's blog. I had heard of blogging, but never stepped foot into bloggy land until MckMama's. I was captivated with the story of her son. Plus she is just interesting. Then, she would link (more often than I wish were possible) to other blogs of families fighting for a child's life. Finally I had to stop going to check them out. Breaks my heart. So I stuck with reading hers, and thought about doing one of my own. Okay, I am going to share more here than required. Please don't judge how ridiculous this bit of information is...just rack it up as yet one more reason to call me crazy. I was afraid to start my own blog. It seemed that all the blogs I had been reading had some tragedy going on. Either the tragedy was the reason they blogged, or it happened after they started what was to be a normal, run of the mill, talk about anything and everything blog. I was superstitious. I didn't want to be one of those tragedies (By the way, if you are one of those blogs, don't be offended. I am not at all saying blogging isn't a great place to get support. I would want the support it lends. I just had this totally unrealistic fear that I might bring it on myself). I decided to hike up my panties and get the hell over it. Here I've been since October of this year.
What about you? Will you share in a post or here in the comments?
Having started my blog in October of this year, I never thought it would be such an awesome outlet for me. Never would I have counted on *meeting* some seriously fun and friendly people. So when people name me to receive these little awards of recognition, I'm thrilled. They are so much fun. Here are a couple I have gotten recently.
Jenna at The Neuff, Shandal at My Life in 3D Tyler at Just Another Day in Our Paradise all gave me this Happy 101 award. Thank you all for thinking of me! This one says you must list ten things that make you happy, and then pass it on to ten others. Ten things that make me happy: 1. Sweet lovin from my babies 2. An earnest compliment from my husband 3. My family 4. A good book 5. Being cozied up in p.j's on the couch when it's raining outside 6. Cooking...and eating! 7. Jeans that fit just right 8. Working out 9. Taking a great picture 10. The smell of the desert after the rain I am going to pass this on to Elizabeth at Our Journey through Life, the Molly at The Snyder 5, Tammy at My Thoughts in Color, Becky at In the Trenches, Elizabeth at Confessions of a Working Mom, Megan at All a Bunch of Momsense, Rudy Family Rukus, Liz at Harmony Song, Keely at MannLand5, and finally last but in no way least, Melis at The Zookeeper's Diary.
The next one I got is A Sweet Award from Mindi at part of me. Mindi's blog is a lot of fun, and filled with some awesome crafts you can do together with kids. Thank you Mindi for choosing me. With this award, you must thank the giver, link to their blog, list five things about yourself and then pass it on to five more people.
Hmmm...5 things about me: 1. I can waterski slalom 2. I love to camp, fish and shoot a gun 3. My first kiss was with a boy named Ari...he was 17 and I was 15 4. When I workout, I don't just do cardio...I lift weights. I can bench press three sets of fifteen at 135lbs (but I am so not a behemoth...just strong). 5. I drive an Expedition...and it is such a mom car. By mom car, I mean loaded with crumbs, toys, books, strollers...you get the idea.
So now to pass this one on as well. Humph. All this linking is making me need a glass of wine! Here goes: Nancy at If Evolution Really Works, Heidi at From 3 to 5, Drea at Peanut Butter Jelly Days, Amy at The Adventures of JAMC, and Amy at Mommy of the Year.
To all of you whom I forwarded these, either enjoy reading your blog, love that you are such an active commenter to mine, or both! Thank you.
Last week...Monday to be precise...we took a little jaunt to Sedona. Not just any day trip...a most auspicious occasion. We were going to meet some very special people. One person, in particular for me. Several months ago, she and I began commenting on each other's blogs...she had no clue about the email response thing, so I gave her a little schooling. Then, we began to email each other almost daily, and sometimes multiple times a day. Through our interactions a friendship emerged. We'd joke about stalking each other all the time, and finally I bit the bullet and said we should try to meet in person some time. Well, could you imagine my surprise when she said she and her family were actually coming here?!? Do you know who I am talking about? Hint: nuts. Peanuts to be precise.
Does she look familiar to you? Well, to those that read her blog, she will. To others, you will think I am off my rocker (pft, that's nothing new). Yes, this is Julie of The Peanut Gallery...exit here. Again, if you read her blog, you will know that her family just took a trip to our neck of the woods. Of course, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to finally meet her in person. The funny thing is, I have felt for some time now like I already know her. By that I mean, I feel like we have been friends for years. There is a realness and an honesty to her that, unfortunately, you don't find all that often. Or at least not as often as I wish. On some level, Julie and I have connected and formed a real friendship. I have blogging to thank for that. Without it, I never would have met her. That ...I simply couldn't imagine.
With our men behind the lenses, we set out to document our encounter. This is one of the first photos we took. The next one had Julie making bunny ears over my head. Maybe she has a copy and will be gracious enough to share it. I, however, will not.
Our girls realized that this was a day like no other, and that it was cause for a real celebration. So...there was dancing in the streets. Come on every guy grab a girl...
All the children (at least those not passed out on the sidewalk ) got along famously. The Desert Dwellers, and The Peanut Gallery were all fast friends. We spent the afternoon frolicking, eating ice cream, causing near attacks in the hearts of shop owners and generally soaking up all we could of each other in a very short amount of time.
S-Girl is the sweetest little girl ever. Truly. All of Julie's children are warm, open, and intelligent. Given Julie's recent toilet incident, you may have misgivings about her parenting...but rest assured, these kids are loved beyond measure, and it shows.
The littlest ones were just worn out.
Yet, they were troopers nonetheless.
Before we barely had a chance to say hello, we were already saying goodbye. Julie may be none too pleased with me for posting this photo. But I happen to love it. She is every bit as fun in person as she seems to be on her blog. Her nature is friendly, open, honest and just plain old hilarious! She is infectious, and I am afraid I have caught the "Julie bug." She's a vibrant, beautiful woman, and I am blessed to call her friend.
This award is thanks to Speaking from the Crib. I was thrilled to get it from her because, well, I think she is freakin hilarious. I mean it...H-I-L-A-R-I-O-U-S. Very rarely do I laugh out loud when reading blogs...at least not really loud. But hers is one for sure that I just can't wait to read because I am certain to be highly entertained. So a huge thank you to her, as this was a pretty stellar compliment.
The rules for this award are...
1. Each Superior Scribbler I name today must in turn pass The Award on to 5 most-deserving bloggy friends. 2. Each Superior Scribbler must link to the author and name of the blog from whom he/she has received The Award. 3. Each Superior Scribbler must display The Award on his/her blog. 4. Each Superior Scribbler must post these rules on his/her blog.
I know it says to pass it on to 5 blogs, but I don't feel inclined to do that. I really would rather just pay it forward to 2 tonight. Not because I am greedy and selfish. Just because I only have 2. So there you have it.
Crazy Baby Mama is another hilarious woman who is absolutely worth your time to read. Actually, I shouldn't speak for you, she is worth my time to read...which oh by the way, is on short supply these days. Crazy Baby Mama, this one's for you!
Amanda at Martinis or Diaper Genies is teetering on the edge of mommyhood and singlehood (kiss off spell check), and I can well relate. I remember those days with a sort of wistfulness. But alas, that is no longer my reality. So Amanda, here's to you.
Contest Update: It's not too late to win a blog makeover... read about it here. Heidi from 3 to 5 has five points! Mindi of Part of Me has two points, and Elizabeth of Our Journey Through Life has two points. The contest ends January 1st. I can't wait for one of you lucky ones to be able to work with Jenna at Bloggy Blog Designz. Start getting your new blog look ideas together ;)
I wish I could say I am done with my Christmas shopping, alas it is not to be. I still have a couple last things to get, but I am super close. Fortunately I have wrapped as I have gone, so that part is not looming.
We did take our gifts to the family we adopted (through the Salvation Army) on Sunday. I hope they wait until Christmas to open them, and I hope they like what they received. Seeing the look on the eight year old's face made everything worth it. She looked so happy to be toting the gifts into to her house from my car. Before leaving, she gave me the biggest hug and it struck me that she is a complete stranger... that I will, more than likely, never see her again. But I touched her life. What a blessing for me.
