Project Mommyhood

What I've been stalking this week!

2012-01-07T09:10:00.007-05:00

Ah-choo!

gesundheit

Really, you have to love those Mid-winter colds, that take residence for a week or so, and make smelling, or tasting your food, quite a bit difficult....and the biggest bummer, is that Father Winter either is on vacation to Bermuda, or has been taken hostage by one of the three other seasons, as it will be in the Mid to upper 50's this weekend, and feel more like March, than January....Drat....Maybe a little fresh air and sunshine will blast this cold to the moon....

and just for the record, will not be contributing to any ransom demands to return father winter to us....sorry....

pinterest.com via ediblecrafts.craftsgossip.com

Anyway...I had to just start this post with this Fantastic image I just pinned.....You can't not love Pinterest! These Monster Cupcakes are so flipping cool! I can't stand it! Might have to snag a Monster Themed Party this year for Noah's 4th Birthday!

Besides Pinterest...which is a daily......okay to be honest...hourly stalk.....

Here are the other places I've been this week! MUST go See

Probably my new Most Favorite Family and Lifestyle Photographer Ever! The inspiration just oozes from her blog! Let's just say I Pin a lot! Simplicity Photography

Always a treat for my senses....the amazing and tasty Cheeky Kitchen

Another one of my favorite places to go....A hard read, yes, a sometimes tearful read...absolutely...an important read, about a mother trying to navigate this world after the loss of her beautiful son, and the importance of educating and funding research for childhood cancer....without a doubt! Rockstar Ronan

I hope everyone has an Amazing first weekend of the New Year! I'm going to be stuffing my pockets with tissues...and taking the boys to the Park today....This weather is insane...but you will definitely not hear me complain!

See you all on Monday, with what I'm realizing about parenting two children!

In The Kitchen: Red Leaf Salad With Creamy Buttermilk Dressing

2012-01-06T09:41:00.002-05:00

Now if you have noticed....which I have to admit I didn't, until it was so graciously pointed out to me recently, that I have a Carb problem....well, I don't think it's a problem, but my nutritionist at the Y, does, my thighs do, and well....those adorable size 6 hot pants that I haven't been able to wear since 2007 do as well. It finally hit me, that maybe my love affair with carbohydrates, is bordering on stalking charges, when I saw that ALL of my In the Kitchen Recipes thus far have some sort of Carb lovingly included....But Lord they are so stinking good, how could I NOT share? right? Or so I keep telling myself....

I decided this week in honor of a New Year, my New (though somehow repetitive) Resolutions....and my size 6 Hot Pants, I would share a recipe that doesn't involve carbohydrates.....it wasn't until after I made this amazing dish, that I looked at the nutrition label on the Buttermilk Carton....and low and behold.....there it was.....sigh.....Well at least the Dark Red Leaf Lettuce counteracts those carbs.....or so I hope.....

Next Recipe I promise.....or I think I will......

In any case, this amazingly easy, and amazingly tasty Red Leaf Salad with Creamy Buttermilk Salad takes no more than 5 minutes to prepare, and is so good....I devour every last bite....and sometimes even lick the plate.....sometimes....

Red Leaf Salad with Creamy Buttermilk Dressing

Salad

1 Small Head Red Leaf Lettuce, torn into Pieces

1/2 Cup Red Onion sliced into Quarter Slices ( I like Larger slices, you could also chop)

(optional) 1/2 c. Cooked Bacon crumbled

Dressing

1/2 C. Buttermilk

1/2 C. SourCream

1/2 C. Mayo

1/2 Tsp Onion Powder

1/2 Tsp Garlic Powder

1/4 Tsp Salt

1/4 Tsp Pepper

Combine Salad Ingredients together in a large bowl

In second bowl, combine Dressing Ingredients, whisking until smooth. Store in Refrigerator until ready to serve. Place some of the salad onto a plate, and drizzle with 2 Tbs of the dressing on top of the salad. top with some fresh cracked pepper.

A New Year's Resolution Giveaway!

2012-01-03T11:54:00.004-05:00

Happy Happy 2012...

Today, mainly because I'm only 3 days behind.....

and because I'm so Pumped with my New Years Resolutions......

SO pumped!

I thought what could be better than sharing two of my Resolution tools with a "New Years Resolution style Giveaway".....

I want to give one lucky reader 2 Fabulous Resolution tools!

My two biggest resolutions this year are to finally kick those last stubborn 30 pregnancy pounds.......

and become somewhat more organized......Now this resolution has been up on my list for the last decade or so.....and every year, I swear it will be my year....

well I'm feeling 2012 will be my year.....and I feel it will be your year too!

So to aide me.....and one of you lucky readers, I'm giving away

A Year Subscription to Self Magazine! I love Self Magazine, because it focuses on Total Well-Being. It gives advice on everything from Fitness and nutrition, to beauty and style. It understands that to sustain a healthy lifestyle, you need to have the mind, body and spirit all in sync. A fabulous tool to help get into fighting resolution form!

The School Years Organizer from Mom Agenda! My husband is so excited to think that Noah's artwork, preschool report cards and his first school pictures will no longer just be migrating around our Kitchen island....they will finally have a home! This Portfolio has folders for each school year from Pre-K all the way to 12th grade. To make keeping and storing those important mementos easy and organized.....such a concept...organization....

To win Both of these Fabulous "New Year's Resolution Tools" All you need to do is leave a comment answering this question!

"What is your New Years Resolution?"

Are you wanting to shed some pounds or get organized like me? Are you wanting to help out your community more by volunteering? Is your resolution to have some more "you time" or finish that novel you've been trying to read all last year.....whatever it may be, just leave a comment with your resolution. You can leave your resolutions until 11:59 PM EST Jan. 9th

I will chose at random the winner on Jan 10th.

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T07:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Happy New Years Eve! It seems like only a short time ago, we were saying goodbye to 2010...and looking forward to all that 2011 would show us in her 365 days.....I've been so blessed to say that she has shown me so many more happy days, than sad.....Good times, than bad.....and has blessed me with another year to spend enjoying being a wife and mother.....

I thank you all for spending the year with me.....especially as I've been trying to find my balance....You've stood by, and I am so grateful....

I wish you all a wonderful and blessed New Year....I wish you strength in times of trial....I wish you laughter in times of joy....and I wish you love and comfort and peace.....and I look so forward to continuing this journey with you in the coming year!

Happy New Year!

Lesley

I thought I'd share what I am drooling over this final weekend of 2011!

Some amazing culinary delights at White On Rice Couple!

One of my Newest Photographer Crushes Andy and Jenna Photodesign

Feeding My Inner Nester at Nesting Place

Always a good place to land for a spell The Macs

Mr Sweet Eyes

2011-12-30T08:04:00.006-05:00

I think God new exactly what he was doing when he designed my children.....especially when he designed Mr. Stinkeroo here....

He gave him all the orneriness that one little baby body could handle....then he added a bit more for good measure.....because, well God has a sense of humor kind of like my husband's.

Now to offset being such a corker.....God gave him the best defense mechanism he could conjour.....one, he knew would work 99 times out of 100....oh, he outdid himself, when he gave my baby the Biggest pair of Brown Eyes any boy could have....and if that wasn't enough, he decided to frame them with long, luxurious lashes, that make me cry......

God knew these eyes would aid him throughout his life.....in getting out many a sticky situation....

Think Puss in Boots....Sometimes I swear I even hear music....

I'm onto you, Mr. Sweet Eyes....you and your secret weapon....

though it is still quite up for debate, on whether I will able to harden myself to the affects those Big, Chocolate Brown Babies have when directed my way.....

I hear from the man of steel who co-parents with me, that I've gone soft.....but really.....how could anyone not be affected.....at least that's what I keep telling myself.....

I might need to add anti-sweet Eye Training to my list of Resolutions for 2012....

Maybe if I look at his nose when I scold.....

or turn him around, and talk to the back of his head.....

Maybe I should carry a pair of baby sunglasses with me, then, when he's decided that unloading a bag of flour on the floor sounded like a great idea.....I can just plop those puppies on...and be immune to their gaze, which can reduce me to a pile of mommy mush....

Ah, who am I kidding? I'm writing this post not 10 minutes after fishing out one of my bras from the toilet.....

sweet eyes 25.......mom 0

In The Kitchen: Fried Apple Fritters

2011-12-28T07:00:00.003-05:00

I've spent the better part of the last 2 days, working diligently to clean up the toy, wrapping paper, and packing peanut explosion that detonated in my living room on Sunday morning...

It is definitely, you can say, my LEAST favorite part of the holiday season.....though playing chicken in a badly designed parking lot with a crazed, last minute Christmas Eve shopper, ranks right up there too....

I realized today, that I needed something to turn my post Christmas blues around....and what better way, then completely changing directions.....and instead of cleaning up a mess.....I'm going to make one!

I brought out my Grandma's old handwritten cookbook....the one with the yellowed, dog-eared pages.....but with recipes that will make my husband drool from half a world away, my sons clean their plate, and I bet would even tame the craziest of Christmas shoppers.....

These Beauties....with their golden brown color....and glistening with their dusting Cinnamon and sugar has renewed my Holiday Spirit, my faith in my fellow man.....and completely made me forget my new years resolution of .......what was it again?

Must not have been important.....

Fried Apple Fritters

1 Egg

2/3 c. milk

1 t. veg. oil

1 c. all-purpose flour

1/4 c. plus 2 Tbs Sugar, divided

1 tsp. Baking Powder

1/8 tsp. Salt

5 Apples, (Granny Smith work Really well)

Peeled, Cored and Thickly sliced.....note I said Thickly

(too thin, and they will fall apart)

1/2 tsp Cinnamon

Vegetable Oil for Deep Frying

Directions

1. Combine Egg, Milk, and oil. Mix until blended, then set aside. In a separate Bowl, Mix Flour, the 2 Tbs of Sugar, Baking Powder and salt. Pour Dry Mix into Egg Mixture., and Blend until Smooth.

2. Heat oil in deep sided skillet....I highly recommend investing in a Cast Iron Skillet! Heat oil to 365 Degrees

3. Dip Apple Slices into Batter, throughly coating both sides. Deep fry 1-2 minutes on one side, then flip, making sure both sides get nice and evenly browned. Drain, then sprinkle with 1/4 C. Sugar and Cinnamon.

4. Eat alone....or.....serve with Vanilla Icecream

Must Have Monday: Valhalla Brooklyn

2011-12-26T13:11:00.005-05:00

Having spent a few years of my pre-baby life, surrounded by gorgeous Designer Handbags, it was only a matter of time, before my personal taste in handbags went from beer level....to champagne....though I drooled daily over the amazingly beautiful bags, bearing the labels of Chloé, Burberry and Marc Jacobs, I just couldn't quite bring myself to open up my 4 year old Coach Bag and upgrade....

Fast forward 4 years later....and my champagne taste, though watered down....and usually leaning towards the newest and greatest Diaper Bag, I still have an oversized soft spot for those gorgeous leather creations, that would pay my car payment for about 6 months....

My Beer Budget, and My Soft Spot have found something they both can covet and I'm in full hearted agreement, on the drool worthy creations coming from Valhalla Brooklyn.

Hand Made, High quality leather handbags.....that ....get ready, are under $400......Can you stand it? I can't either.....

I am determined to be sporting the lovely Larch Bag that sells for $319 (picture 2 and 4)....Sigh......

Hands down Style Points....and Large enough for all my stuff and the kids stuff? Double Sigh.....

Please, don't just take my word on it, you can drool over all the amazing creations yourself......

Valhalla is sold in a few Small Boutiques, and on Etsy.

Baking

2011-12-21T07:00:00.000-05:00

How can you tell when the Christmas Season is in full swing at our house?

When two boys channel their inner Cake Boss meets The Swedish Chef....

My mini Culinary Masters....know the ins and outs of Holiday Baking.....

Rule 1) Who needs measuring? A REAL Baker just Feels the recipe.....

Rule 2.....Taste Testing is a must....for quality control purposes....

Rule 3.....Live by the advice of the incomparable Ms Julia Child

“The only real stumbling block is fear of failure. In cooking you've got to have a what-the-hell attitude.”

In The Kitchen: Sausage Wontons

2011-11-22T08:28:00.003-05:00

What do you get when mix Italian, Tex-Mex and Asian Cuisine.....and put them together in one small, delectable morsel?

Only probably one of the most amazing appetizers to have tickled my taste buds in a longggg time!

I'm so in game mode, with getting ready for the onslaught of Holiday Shindigs......and my 2nd Annual Dirty Santa Party is going to be my hit of the season......so I'm already firing up the kitchen, to make sure the food is as amazing as the Holiday Festivities....

and taking a cue from Brad Paisley....who so eloquently says

"It's like we're all livin' in a big ol' cup

Just Fire up the blender, mix it all up"

I only had time to take two Photos of this amazing Dish....as My mouth just couldn't wait to devour every last one......

Sausage Wontons

1 lb Italian Sausage (casings removed)

3/4 c. Salsa (I like mine Medium)

1/2 c. shredded Monterrey Jack Cheese

1 c. Shredded Cheddar Cheese

2 oz Diced green chilies

olive oil

24 Wonton Skins

Sour Cream

1. In Large Skillet, brown sausage over medium heat, breaking up the large pieces, so that it is crumbly. When sausage is done, remove with slotted spoon and drain remaining grease. Discard grease from skillet, then return the sausage.

2. Add salsa, cheese, and green chilies to the sausage, and simmer until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Turn off heat, and let cool to room temperature

3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees, Brush 24 mini muffin cups with olive oil. Press 1 wonton wrapper into each muffin cup. Fill each prepared cup with a full Tablespoon of Sausage mixture.

4. Bake Wontons for 1o minutes at 350 degrees, until edges of wonton wrapper begin to brown. Then Transfer the Wontons from the muffin tin, to a baking sheet. Return wontons to oven, and bake an additional 8 minutes.

Serve with a dollop of Sour cream!

REVIEW: Melt Buttery Spread!

2011-11-15T09:01:00.006-05:00

I want to start by saying.....

I LOVE Butter.....I love how it makes EVERYTHING you put it on...taste better.....Whoever said it's better with butter...sure as heck wasn't lying.....

I'm a Paula Deen Groupie.....

I become just a little bit more than giddy when I see her bring out her favorite ingredient....and create what are in my opinion....culinary masterpieces (I know Anthony Bourdain and I could go round and round on that one)

There's just one little pesky downside to all that buttery goodness.....It's not the healthiest of food items.....

Way to be a pooper at the party....

There is a NEW and exciting Guest at the Butter Party though....and it has renewed my excitement with being able to endulge in my Butter obsession....without so much of the unhealthy side effects.....I'd like to introduce you to Melt!

Melt is not Butter.....and it is not Margarine that has all those hydrogenated oils....

Melt is certified 95% organic, Gluten Free and Contains those "Good Fats" that unfortunately Butter Doesn't have.

Melt is a Butter Substitute that is made using Virgin Coconut Oil, Flax Seed Oil, Palm Oil and Canola Oil, "healthy Cooking Oils" which has an amazing 20% less calories than Butter.....

I've been slathering Melt on my Biscuits....and Toast....and anything I can slather it on.....I've baked with Melt, Sauteed with Melt....and eaten it straight from the tub.....It has a slight Coconut taste to it, which butter obviously doesn't have....but you certainly don't even notice it once you cook with it....and I don't mind having a little "taste" with my butter anyway.

Recently as you remember I made My AMAZING Toasted Almond Cupcakes with Caramel Frosting.....They turned out so moist, and so delicious...Melt did not alter the quality of the recipe at all....and with something that just looking at it, adds pounds to my hips...it's nice to know I was able to reduce the calories a little bit....and add some added organic ingredients!

You can purchase Melt on their Website, or at Select King Soopers, Fred Meyers or Whole Foods Stores. You can locate a retail location close to you, by checking out their store locator page.

My Mama is coming.....

2011-11-11T09:31:00.007-05:00

and to say the least....I'm a tad bit excited about it!!!

My mom, by the way, didn't she look fetching in her Dorothy Hamill inspired Bob?

She's always been on with the trends with regards to her hairstyles....

well...except for the time....I believe it was 1992.....a disastrous event that occurred at salon, with a very....shall we say innnterresstting....name, that would have been better suited for an Adult toy Shop, than a hair salon....you would have thought that might be a clue.....

My poor mother went in that fateful afternoon a brunette....and emerged....Bozo the Clown....or maybe they were going for a street walker look.....either way...it was a Flaming red mega disaster....and to me and my sister....quite funny....

To say the least, her new hair color lasted about as long as the salon did....

but, my mom was a good sport, and even now will laugh about the infamous "G-spot" episode.....it's one of the many traits about her that I admire so much...

Growing up, I thought my mom was the smartest, the prettiest, the most stylish....though there were "the Sweat pant years".....but I chalk that up to a momentary reverse mid-life crisis.....

In many ways I still feel that way about my mom.....I admire her intelligence, her independence, her ability to speak her mind......and her ability to laugh....

I think I'm looking forward to hearing her laughter most.....

I find as I am raising my own two children...how many times I end up saying or doing something, that....in essence is my mother.....

I guess, you can call that a wonderful legacy, if your children unconsciously pass on the knowledge and wisdom to their children, that you showered onto them....

Though I hope my kids don't pick up some of my traits.....like my propensity to live in chaos.....the fact that I procrastinate, and fly by the seat of my pants......all traits by the way that I did NOT get from my mom......

Hmm....it does looks like she did pass on her good hair sense though....look who else is sporting the Dorothy Hamill Bob?

In the Kitchen: Toasted Almond Cupcakes with Caramel Frosting

2011-11-10T08:14:00.003-05:00

If you had to ask me what I think the absolute Perfect Dessert is...

I would have to say the Cupcake...I'm sure I will be getting many a culinary expert rolling their eyes at me, but really why can't it be?

Cupcakes come in the perfect individual sizes, as to NOT over indulge, unless you swipe say 2 or 3...

Cupcakes can take on and transform into just about any flavor combination you can possibly think up....PB and J, Tiramisu, Key Lime......

The Best Thing about Cupcakes....and what I think makes them so perfect....is that cupcakes can transcend generations.....Now you can find some very Grown up Cup Cakes, that even the stodgiest of culinary palates would approve of!

Like this Little Bite of Perfection....Toasted Almond topped with Sweet and Velvety Caramel Frosting, and Topped with just the right amount of crunch with the Almond Garnish....it is so not your Preschooler's Cupcake for sure, though mine gave me a sticky 2 thumbs up!

This recipe comes courtesy of Betty Crocker, because Betty knows her cupcakes!

Oh, and a heads up! I will be giving away one of the special ingredients included in this recipe Tomorrow! so Stay Tuned!

Toasted Almond Cupcakes with Caramel Frosting

Cupcakes

1 1/2 cups sliced almonds
1 box white cake mix
1 1/4 cups water
1/2 cup applesauce
3 eggs
1 teaspoon almond extract

Caramel Frosting

1/2 cup butter*
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup milk
2 cups powdered sugar

1. Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pans). Place paper baking cup in each of 24 regular-size muffin cups. In shallow pan, bake almonds 6 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Cool 15 minutes. Reserve 1 cup almonds for garnish.

2. In food processor, grind remaining almonds until finely ground. In large bowl, beat cake mix, water, oil, eggs and almond extract with electric mixer on low speed 30 seconds. Beat on medium speed 2 minutes, scraping bowl occasionally. (Batter will be lumpy.) Fold in ground almonds. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.

3. Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes. Remove from pan to cooling rack. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.

4 In 2-quart saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low; boil and stir 2 minutes. Stir in milk. Heat to boiling. Remove from heat. Cool to lukewarm, about 30 minutes.

5. Gradually stir powdered sugar into brown sugar mixture. Place saucepan of frosting in bowl of cold water. Beat with spoon until smooth and spreadable. If frosting becomes too stiff, stir in additional milk, 1 teaspoon at a time. Frost a few cupcakes at a time with 1 tablespoon frosting each; sprinkle reserved almonds lightly onto frosting. Store loosely covered at room temperature.

* I used Melt Buttery Spread in place of regular Butter in this recipe. Melt is an organic Omega-3 rich gluten free butter alternative.

Our Family, A Photo Story

2011-11-08T07:40:00.007-05:00

I count myself as being one lucky duck.....

My wonderful husband humors me on so many things, like spending an afternoon helping me choose new throw pillows for our bedroom, or gritting through the Real Housewives of Atlanta Marathon, on his Saturday Afternoon, even though I know he would rather be doing something more productive and manly....like golfing.....or fishing......

He really is such a guy, and I try really hard to reciprocate his manly sacrifices, by in turn watching a Dirty Jobs Marathon, or spending an afternoon at Lowes checking out the newest and greatest in Power Tools....

Our Yearly Family Portraits, usually always begins with again, him humoring me....by seeming completely interested in the coordinating, but not "matchy matchy" wardrobe choices I've chosen

He does an amazing job, of being warm and friendly with the Photographer, and smiling his brightest smile for the camera, though in between takes, I see his gaze wander longingly to the golf course that happens to be just across the way.....

He does a wonderful job of helping me wrangle two very wiggly, toddlers, who have the attention span of a gnat, and all without a single complaint, or even the hint of a sigh

By the middle of our shoot, I begin to notice.......

He's enjoying himself.....with the only longing gazes being directed towards his family....thoughts of long drives and tee boxes long forgotten...

or just forgotten....

I love my husband.....for humoring me, on my Girly T.V. marathons, shopping trips, and endless chatter about kids, and friends, and what I saw in the latest issue of Parents Magazine....

But I love him most, because after all is said and done, he gets just as excited, or even more so, about our family portraits....than I do.

He understands how quickly time goes by, how right before our eyes, our boys are growing and changing, and how this moment, right now that we are in, will be gone in a blink of an eye...

He understands how important these memories are for me, with the last 6 years having all our wonderful and joyous occasions being interwoven with my fight to win over Cancer....

He understands, because his choice to serve our country, keeps him away from his family for long stretches of time, and having these beautiful images of us together, and happy, helps keep us close even when he's in a distant and unfriendly place....

I can't thank him enough...for humoring me!

I have to thank Erica Mahan Photography, for taking such Amazing Photographs, that I will cherish for a lifetime....If you are in the Philadelphia or South Jersey Area, I highly recommend her!

Time does go by so fast, and we never know what tomorrow may hold for us....or what changes God has in store....but I know I will have these amazing images to hold close...and continue to bring life to the memories I will hold in my heart....

I'm going to end with this.....

“If you have not had family pictures taken within the past 3 years, promise me right now that tomorrow morning, you will find someone to do it. I don’t care if it’s a neighbor, I don’t care if it’s a portrait studio, I don’t care if it’s a tripod and a remote. Just do it. We have no guarantees in life, but at least we can have the photos to prove that we were here, we were together, and we were happy.”

Pinkletoes Photography

In the Kitchen: Breakfast Pizza

2011-11-03T13:55:00.002-04:00

In my humble opinion, there are really only a handful of things in this world....that when paired together, makes the heavens part, and the angels sing....

Cookie dough and Vanilla Ice Cream

A Deep Fryer and Oreo Cookies

Butter and Paula Deen

and

Pizza and Breakfast......

I could eat pizza almost every single day of my life....and the same could definitely be said for Breakfast foods....and thank goodness my very cute, but extremely picky 3 year old could agree with me on that point.

Luckily, someone, somewhere was so extremely brilliant....and came up with the idea of putting eggs, cheese, sausage and potatoes on top of a pizza....I hold that momentous occasion up there with the creation of the light bulb...and the Snuggie.....

This Breakfast pizza, is a) extremely easy to make, b) is uber budget friendly, and c) 99% of the time, everyone in the house will love it, morning, noon or for a Wednesday night dinner.

Behold....the wonderous-ness that is....

Breakfast Pizza

8 oz Tube refrigerated crescent rolls

1 lb ground breakfast sausage, browned/drained

1 c. frozen diced potatoes, thawed

1 c. shredded cheddar cheese

5 eggs

1/4 milk

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

Directions

1. Separate Crescent rolls into triangles, arrange triangles on ungreased cookie sheet, Pressing over bottom and up sides to form the crust. Make sure you close the creases.

2. Spoon cooked sausage over prepared crust. Sprinkle with potatoes and cheese.

3. In separate bowl, combine eggs, milk, salt and pepper. Pour egg mixture over cheese and sausage.

4. Bake at a 375 degree oven for 25-30 minutes, until eggs have fully set.

5. Cut into squares, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese!

Makes 6-8 servings

You are so very welcome!

On Tuesday....

2011-10-04T09:41:00.001-04:00

A little insight into a very non-typical Tuesday Morning....

After the usual Morning Send Off.....where one very brave Three Year Old...goes off to Conquer the World of Preschool....his weapon of choice, his well loved Blankie in Hand....

it still gets to me....seeing him wave from the bus window......I still don't think I'm ready....

when he's 25, I still don't think I'll be ready.....

Enjoy some quality time with one very snuggly pre-toddler, who smells of a combination of maple syrup and clean laundry.....which probably means I should probably check my laundry basket to see if my underwear is stuck to a towel.....or if my husbands jeans smell like they should be slathered in butter....

Try for the 1 millionth time to become a dog whisperer.....and explain why I don't need help changing diapers.....and hopefully understand the extreme hatred of all things squirrel related....

If anyone has some insight....or the number to a good pet therapist....it would be greatly appreciated.

Begin the annual transformation of the house from Summer....To Autumn.......by getting my hands dirty....and praying to the gardening Gods.....that I will this time, be blessed with even a hint of a green thumb......all the while chanting "I will not kill the plants....." I'll let you know how that turns out!

Tomorrow should prove to be a very interesting Wednesday.....

It's the day I perform my civic Duty....

and show up for jury duty....

I can honestly say, it's taken me 14 years for me to finally get summoned....and I was a little nervous to get that ominous card in the mail.....

And though, I have absolutely no idea yet, what I'll do if I do get chosen....as Jury duty isn't one of those things that seems to be, family friendly......

I'm actually excited to possibly get a chance to actually go inside the courts....and see first hand how our judicial system works....

Wonder if I can borrow a certain Brave Boy's Blankie......

In The Kitchen: Black Bean Burrito With Pico De Gallo

2011-09-02T07:00:00.000-04:00

Can I just start by saying......I could eat this every single day of my life.....literally....if I was stuck on a deserted Island, as long as there were Tomatoes, Onions, Peppers, Cilantro...Beans.....and an unlimited supply of Tortillas and Cheese....

I would be in culinary heaven....

Having lived in Phoenix for 5 years, where Mexican food has nothing to do with your local Taco Bell Drive Thru....but has more to do with The Amazing Flavors that come from the Mexican Culture.....

I have to say, moving to the East Coast....I am so very homesick for anything that resembles the bold authentic recipes I am used too.....

4 1/2 years later....I'm still searching.....

Instead of pining away ....or spending a fortune on cross country delivery....I've begun to experiment on my own....and try and recreate those flavors and dishes I love...

I happend to have Some Amazing Ripe Tomatoes and Peppers waiting for me in my garden.....and I thought....what a Perfect day to make a fresh batch of Pico De Gallo....

and Some hearty and delicious Black Bean Burritos to go with it.....

These Two Recipes are So Fast....and So Simple that it even works on those busy Kid Crazy days.....when you want a fast, filling...and Healthy lunch......

Pico De Gallo

1 Large Tomato Seeded and Chopped

1 Purple Onion Chopped

1 Large Banana Pepper Seeded and Chopped

2 cloves Garlic Minced

1/4 C. Fresh Cilantro Chopped

Juice of Two Limes

Salt and Pepper to Taste

Mix all Ingredients together in a large bowl.

And There You Have it! Pico is best eaten within a day of it's creation.....It doesn't keep well after that....though I don't think anyone will have a problem finishing it off!

Now you'll need your Pico De Gallo for the Super Delicioso Black Bean Burritos....

Black Bean Burrito

1 tsp minced garlic

1 15 oz can black beans drained and rinsed

1 tsp ground coriander

1/2 c. sour cream

1/2 c. Pico De Gallo

4-67 inch Flour Tortillas

1 c. grated Monterey Jack Cheese

In a large Saucepan, combine garlic, beans, coriander, sour cream, and Pico De Gallo Cook over Medium heat, about 5 minutes, until thoroughly heated.

Meanwhile, sprinkle tortillas with water and place between 2 damp paper towels. Heat in Microwave for 30 seconds.

Divide Bean Mixture between tortillas, sprinkle with Cheese, roll up and serve with more of that amazing Pico De Gallo on the Side

I'm thinking....I may not need that Deserted Island....or a Fed Ex Account after all......

*Burp*

Potty Training is the Pits

2011-09-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

I officially have to say.....I HATE potty training....

I loathe it.....

I have no idea how any of us adults walk around without wearing adult sized diapers....

I think my parents were geniuses.....or magicians.....

because I HAVE no idea how they did it.....

My mom always relays the story that I was such a hard child to potty train....and then on my third birthday....I just decided I'd sit on the potty....and go.....no more diapers....

Yeah.....either time has dulled her memory on what actually happened....or she's had one too many glasses of wine, because I can't for the life of me see that any toddler could just one day say...."okay....I'd rather wipe my own tush, than have you do it"....

With Noah....for the last year...

I've bribed

I've cajoled

I've begged

I've pleaded

I've threatened....

I've thrown a mini peepee party in the bathroom, with party horns and confetti.

I've allowed him to have his favorite blow pops at 9 AM because he used the potty.

I've been at this so long, that yesterday while on the phone with my husband, I mentioned how we were out of Tinkle Paper.....

He asked where in Target do you find that?

My Absolute favorite....is now Mr. Smarty Pants, has learned that he can use the potty as a means of prolonging bedtime.....I can say no to Drinks, 5 extra books, or a late night snack....but when he says he has to potty...be it once or for the 13 hundredth time.....I'll let him go.....

The only thing right now that is keeping me from throwing in the towel and saying....go ahead...be the only kid in 5th grade to wear Diapers...if they even make them that size.....is that I will have a moment, where the clouds will part, and the sun shines....as I did yesterday, when Noah actually ran into the bathroom, moved his little stool, climbed on....and proceeded to pee on his foot....but.....

he did go on his own...

Then this morning....as he's running by me.....I catch a whiff of what he's packing, and realize we are back to square one......

sigh

Potty training is the bane of my existence....it has given me 3, no 4 gray hairs.....right in front mind you.....

and has made me a nervous wreck as Preschool starts....next week....

and we are no where near Undies Ready.....

Though I do have a bunch of super adorable Lightening McQueen Briefs waiting for him in his drawer.....

If there is any advice that perhaps you don't find in any parenting book....

and doesn't involve Cheerios, m and ms....or kitchen timers....

I will forever be grateful....

I'm running out of wine......and hair dye......

Goodnight Irene

2011-08-30T08:11:00.007-04:00

What a Wild and Wooly Weekend we had on the Eastern Seaboard.....With the Fury that was Irene...barreling down on us.....

She gave it her all, I have to give her that, though I'm so extremely grateful that in my particular neck of the woods, The Power stayed on, Flooding was kept to a minimum....and only two decent sized tree limbs in our yard, marked that she had been here.....

Though at one point, during the height of the storm, I truly felt as if the worst was going to happen....and wondered if I should have high tailed it to higher ground.....instead of trying to be the tough one, and stick it out....

My wonderful Husband, as usual had the pleasure of missing all of the good stuff......Blizzard, Deployed. Hospital stays, Deployed, Earthquake.....TDY....and Now Hurricane......you guessed it...gone....

Though This time, The entire Squadron was left to us spouses...as our lovey's in Uniform, had to fly those massive planes out of harms way.....but I have to say, we held our own! With the wonderful help of The Few Fellas who were left to hold down the fort....All us ladies put on our games faces and showed our husbands exactly what we are made of....and that is that they married some tough chicks....

Really tough chicks!

Saturday Morning, was spent shoring up all loose ends, putting anything and everything that could be used against us in the garage, and making sure the sandbags were in place in case our creek decided to invade the basement.....couldn't let that happen without a good fight.....

But Saturday Afternoon, as the skies grew darker, and the rain began to arrive....we decided to play a little...

okay a lot.....

Those boys needed to get their run on, before we snuggled in under a mound of blankets, eating our Hurricane rations of Chocolate Chip cookies, Rice Crispy Treats....and watching a marathon of All Things Animated......

But Miss Irene, kept her destruction of my neighborhood to a minimum, and as I picked up those two branches, moved the sandbags back...and brought out our patio furniture again, I felt I could actually find a few positive things that we could glean from Irene......

Not only do I not need to water my lawn for the next month, but Irene also allowed me a good solid 36 hours straight to devote to potty training....something I desperately needed....

hence all that naked tushy......

Though we made it out, with only a few hairs out of place, I'm more than aware of the massive devastation that Irene left in her wake. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of those who lost homes, possessions....and even loved ones.....

I think it's time to say...Goodnight Irene......Goodnight.....

In The Kitchen: Tortellini Soup

2011-08-26T15:53:00.002-04:00

So if you've ever wondered what I would do to prepare for a hurricane.....

not that I can imagine you would wonder, but if it one day crossed your mind while folding the laundry....or while sitting in the dentists chair....I have an answer for you...

I make Tortellini Soup....

Sounds perfectly logical doesn't it?

At least I know while Irene is doing her dirty work outside my door....I'll be hunkered down...comforting myself with a fabulous bowl of Tortellini soup......

I highly recommend putting it on your hurricane preparedness list...right before Batteries...and right after water.....

Tortellini Soup

1 lb. Italian Sausage, Casings Removed

1 onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, diced

6 c. Beef Broth

1 16.5 oz can Diced Tomatoes, drained

1 16.5 oz can Tomato Sauce

1/2 c. GOOD Dry Red Wine

1 Zucchini sliced and quartered

1 Carrot Sliced

1 Green Bell Pepper Diced

16 oz bag Frozen Cheese Tortellini

Grated Parmesan Cheese

1. In Skillet, Brown Sausage...when sausage is browned, add onion and garlic and saute 5 minutes until soft.

2. In Stock Pot, add Beef broth, Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce, Red Wine, Zucchini, Carrot, Pepper and Sausage Mixture. Bring to Boil, then lower temperature to med/low...simmering for 60-90 minutes.

3. Add Tortellini, and cook an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through

4. Serve with Crusty Bread, and top with Grated Parmesan Cheese

In all seriousness though, my thoughts and prayers are with all those who are braving Irene with me this coming weekend.....may she veer a little more to the East.....

Strollers, Style School....and Punk Rock

2011-08-23T21:20:00.008-04:00

This Post is brought to you by the letter S.....

Saturday, Strollers, Step and Repeats, Style School, 77kids....well it does start with s.......

Let's just say, while Daddy is away, mommy and the boys, like to go play! And this weekend, we went and played in the Big Apple....which luckily for us, is a hop skip and a short train ride from our suburban oasis in South Jersey.....

Though, I have to throw it out there, that Penn Station needs to work on being a little more ....stroller friendly? As my posse and I commenced the disembarking of our NJ transit train on Track 8 of NY Penn Station.....the left front wheel of my expensive yet cumbersome double jogging stroller.....disengaged itself...and fell between the train and platform....to the track below....

after few NY style expletives

and some blank stares from any and all NJ Transit workers...on whether said wheel could be retrieved.......

my posse and I made the 5 short blocks....and 1 long block trek to our destination the Fabulous 77kids Style School held at the Metropolitan Pavilian

.....1 wheel short....but still on time.....

because not even a three wheeled stroller, could keep me from our mission!

Our First Stop....the Step and Repeat....my gorgeous friend Angela...looks so put together...while I'm a wind blown mess......and Though Noah is obviously thrilled with the papparazzi worthy attention....Ryan would obviously rather be doing anything else.....

Now why I didn't get any pictures of the amazing wine tasting hosted by Cameron Hughes Wines....probably because I was too busy enjoying the Moscato......in a word amazing.....

But I did get a pic of Noah having the time of his life at the Play Doh Table.....though, if you remember the picture from last weeks Play Doh incident.....

It was a fabulous event with some awesome vendors....from the cool Kids Clothing Swap hosted by Zulily to a Yummy Applesauce tasting from Motts....

LandsEnd was on hand with a killer Back to School set up, and Mom Agenda was showcasing their perfect planners for busy moms...

Advil set up an insanely fun Photo Booth...that Noah wanted a 3rd, 4th and 5th go at.....as well as stocking us up on must have Advil products for infants and children.....

Remington, provided some gorgeous hair makeovers.....and the seriously Punk Chic 77kids area.....had a to die for Goody Table....and even put the urban back into my suburban boys, by giving them some super cool punk mohawks.......

All that Fabulousness....ending with a over the top Swag Bag.....made me all but forget the infamous wheel incident.....

Let's just say, we left our mark on the Big City.....

But more importantly, the Style School, definitely left it's Punk Rock Mark on us!

Rock ON!

Photo Friday: Like Mother Like Son

2011-08-19T08:50:00.009-04:00

Maybe it's the Chubby Cheeks......or the glazed look in our eyes.....or perhaps its the fact that we both have a propensity to have our pictures taken while sporting smeared something all over our faces.....though I know what was on his face was edible....

not sure what was on mine...was.......

but after having a three year old who is is an exact miniature version of his father...down to his funny big toe....and his love of mooning me.....

it is so nice to know....that I have a child that takes after me.....even a little bit.....

Now do you have a messy photo somewhere? If you do, go over to the newly started Project Mommyhood Photo Friday Group on Flickr, and upload your "MESSY" photos......I will choose a group of finalists on Monday, and 1 will win a fun prize!!! It's not going to be anything HUGE like a new car....or $300 gift card....but I do promise, it will be fun!

I can't wait to see what you all bring....

plus, I think it will make me feel better...that my offspring and I are not the only ones who walk around with a snack on our faces.....

Happy Friday!

A Week in Review

2011-08-15T13:40:00.002-04:00

Sunday:

Learned that Even in August....the Atlantic can still take your breath away! Figured out that Wave Jumping is a totally rad past time.....and that you really can get sand everywhere.....

Monday:

Finds out what happens when you leave two boys alone for an afternoon with their dad.....and playdough..... promptly leaves for another Grande Java Chip Frappachino......

Tuesday:

Found out what happens when a Three year old attempts to dress themselves.....something missing? .....nah.......

Wednesday:

Though not as fabulous as a naked baby butt.....but there really is nothing better than sitting outside.....two children tucked in....glass of wine in hand.....decompressing while watching a beautiful sunset......

while hubby is still cleaning up playdough from two days before.....

Thursday: Inevitably a certain 13 month old's Best Friend, got lost for a few hours, after taking a raging pool party in our front yard.....really, the monkey in question, exhausted from hours of water play, decided to take a few hour long siesta under the neighbor's tree....it is still a mystery how he got there....and he's not talking.

Friday: learned you can give a child a bath, and do laundry at the same time.....also learned what the maximum liquid capacity of a diaper is......

Saturday:

Three Year old, decided that he no longer wishes to be the next Jack Sparrow.....but rather become the next Cake Boss.....and realizes....he can make one mean batch of brownies.....

A Giveaway: Fresh Produce

2011-08-10T08:03:00.008-04:00

If you had asked me 6 years ago when I lived my life in high heels and adorable twenty something business attire, that I would excited to do a Fresh Produce Review......I would have probably laughed....a lot.....because 6 years ago, I was still under the mindset that style and comfortability were mutually exclusive, and if lumped together....sounded better suited for car commercial than fashion......fashion was meant to be ....lets's just say NOT so comfortable....but that was the price you paid to look fantastic.....

I have to humbly admit, that mindset also extended to Fresh Produce.....6 years ago, when I was wearing those beautiful, though so not comfortable clothes, while managing at Nordstrom, I was familiar with the brand, as Nordstrom has carried Fresh Produce since 1988. I have to say, I associated Fresh Produce solely with the Snow Birds who would abandon their homes in the north....for the warm winters in Phoenix, where I resided.

I was so wrong....on all accounts.

Becoming a mom, and a full time, stay at home mom, has opened my eyes to clothing choices that allow me to do crazy things like catch children....without ripping a hole in pantyhose, or breaking a heel. And, I now find myself searching out like a bloodhound brands that focus in on the real need of women needing clothing that is flattering, but also feels amazing on.

Fresh Produce, has taken their line, and have created pieces that are so flattering, but also so easy to wear. This is especially true with their ME line. The pieces in the ME line are fashion forward, but keep true to the Fresh Produce idea of year round sensibility and costal comfort...

I was so excited that I was sent the the Morocco Soleil dress in Sunrise, and the Pintuck Tank Dress in Truffle.

The Morocco Soleil Dress is so right on trend, with it's fitted lycra top, and cotton voile skirt. The shape will make women of any size feel feminine and stylish. And the color, I have to say the sunrise is amazing...never thought I'd love that color, but it is my go too summer date night dress!

The Pintuck dress, is the perfect daytime, playdate, run out of the house dress. It is breezy and soft, and with the pintucks around the front and back, it gives the dress a sassy, updated and modern style. Add a belt around your hips, for a completely different, but equally as sassy summer look.

my 27 year old self is very ashamed......that's all I have to say!

now you too can have your own Sassy and Comfortable summer Piece from Fresh Produce,

WIN: A PINTUCK TANK DRESS!

TO ENTER:

Visit Fresh Produce and tell me which item you'd love to add to your summer wardrobe! There are so many stylish and comfortable pieces to choose from!

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Follow Project Mommyhood Publicly.

2. Follow Project Mommyhood and Fresh Produce on Twitter

3. Subscribe to Project Mommyhood via RSS or Email

4. Like Fresh Produce on Facebook

5. Like Project Mommyhood on Facebook

6. Vote for me on Top Baby Blogs! Button is in left Sidebar!

Contest Ends August 20th 11:59 EST.

I want to give a huge thank you to Fresh Produce for their generosity in the review dresses that were sent, as well as the giveaway prize.

And a Big Thank you to my very sweet, and super attractive husband for taking these pictures of me....you will always be my favorite photographer.

In The Kitchen: Margarita Cupcakes

2011-08-08T07:24:00.006-04:00

Last Friday was a day that was not only circled in bright pink on my calendar, but also was adorned with 20 gold stars and a BIG hastily drawn smiley face....that if you look at it just so, kind of resembles Burt Reynolds.....

That particular square on the calendar deserved such bling and celebration, as it was my monthly night to step away from my full time job as Wife, Mother, Personal Chef, Personal Assistant, Janitor, Lawn Maintenance Manager, and Chauffeur, and play Bunco.....

or in the Case of August....the 3rd Annual Drunko.....

It is a night of guaranteed fun, most likely some competitive spirit....and someone might even pee their pants if it hits A+ status.....

It is motley crew this Bunco Group I belong too.......it's made up of both military and non military wives.....mothers and non mothers, working moms and SAHM's.....we are aged anywhere from 24 to 48....and have come from all over the country to this little corner of south jersey.....

and become friends....comrades....and support system.....

So this last Friday night took a rowdy group of 12 ladies......a summer poolside evening.....4 husbands acting as our handsome and ever vigilant bartenders....(I never had an empty drink) .....

and a down and dirty game of Bunco....

and we had ourselves one heck of a good time.....

I don't know of much that could taste more of summertime and crazy poolside Bunco than Muy Delicioso Margarita Cupcakes that are Fuera de este mundo....(out of this world)

I love making mine in mini cupcake size, because a) smaller is easier to handle when you are in the middle of a Bunco round....you can just cram the whole thing in, and keep your roll going, without missing a beat, and b) they are just so darn cute!

recipe adapted from Hostess With The Mostess and The Kitchen is my Playground

Ingredients

Cupcakes
1 box white Cake Mix
8 oz liquid margarita mix
2 oz tequila
1 oz grand marnier
3 egg whites
2 Tbs vegetable oil
1 Tbs grated lime zest

Margarita Buttercream Frosting

1/2 lb. (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 c. confectioners' sugar
3 T. fresh lime juice
1 T. Triple Sec
1 T. Cuervo Gold tequila
2 T. lime zest
1/16 to 1/8 tsp. salt, to taste

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 and prepare muffin cups

2. Combine margarita mix, Tequila and Grand Marnier in bowl.

3. In large bowl combine cake mix, egg whites, lime zest, vegetable oil, and margarita mixture. mix until smooth.

4. Spoon batter into muffin pans, making sure to fill each 2/3 full

5. Bake 20-24 minutes or until toothpick come out clean

Icing

1. In large bowl, beat butter until light and fluffy about 1 to 1 minute 30 seconds.

2. Add confectioners sugar 1/4 cup at a time, beating after each addition for just a few seconds, until all 2 cups are added. If you feel your icing is still not stiff enough, add more confectioners sugar 1 Tbs at at time, until you reach desired consistency.

3. Increase mixer to medium speed for a few minutes to make sure everything is combined. Turn mixer to low, while adding the remaining ingredients, starting with salt. Beat on low speed for a few minutes until fluffy. adjust salt to taste.

8 Spread icing on cupcakes that have been removed from oven and cooled completely on wire rack.

Now, you don't need a Boozey Summer night, with a bunch of crazy Bunco Chicks........

I think next time, I'll make them when I'm home alone, with nothing but me and my Real Houswives marathon...and a snoring dog laying next to me.....

now that's a party!

and next month's Bunco Theme......Gangsta....."Fo Real"

How Cowboys Celebrate Birthdays

2011-08-06T09:44:00.000-04:00

I don't know too many Buckeroos that Get to relive their first Birthday a second time, but if we were going to relive it, we were going big or going home! Since The Air Force called Daddy away for The Bugster's Actual Birthday, there was no better time or place then the Ohio Farm to throw the Rootin-ist Tootin-ist First Birthday Bash This side of the Mississippi....

The following is a instruction guide on how to throw yer-self a Rough and Rowdy Cowboy Worthy Shindig....

First you just need to find the perfect cowpoke invitation, letting everyone know to bring their appetites and spurs....for a ho-down to beat the band.

Our invitation came Via Pony Express from Tinyprints. And just so it wouldn't take forever for the mail coach to deliver our RSVP's....guests could reply directly on the website...

we'll I'll be flipped.....ain't that somethin....

Then you rope yerself a location that can hold all that rowdiness! Nothin worse than spot too small, in case anyone wants to break out into some impromptu square dancin....

Rustle up 25 of your best pals, to fill that big ole space....though I wish we could have sent the stage coach out to bring in the rest of our favorite people....it just takes too darn long!

Aren't they a handsome crowd?

Then you have to make sure your dressed the part, a pair of bibs, barefeet and a sheriff's badge are all you need to complete the perfect cowpoke ensemble...

and a gigantic lollipop for the perfect accessory and pop of color

Besides having a wagon-load of tasty vittles, .....

and for the record, I would have taken pictures of all the amazing fare of hamburgers and hotdogs, homemade lemonade, more fruit than a fruit stand......and the best coleslaw in the entire world....

but I was stuffing my face......

You also need the peace de resistance....the Biggest, Baddest, Cowboy Cake anyone has ever seen! Ryan's Amazing Cake was created by Creme de la Creme Cakery.....

I take my hat off to her!

The Cake Destruction of course is the highlight of any Cowboy First Birthday Party.....The messier, the better, and since you are hosting it in a Cowboy worthy local....it won't matter how much cake gets on the floor!

After the culmination of the Cake Smashing.....with full bellies, and full hearts, it's time to have some good all american, ole-fashioned fun! A Good Natured Corn Hole Competition....including some razzing on both sides of the line......more sugar.......water.......

and company......

that's all you need.....

You'll know you've succeeded in your quest to creating a Cowboy worthy First Birthday, if the cowpoke of honor ends his day plum tuckered out.....

I think it was an all out success

and no one squatted on their spurs!

Blackberries!

2011-08-03T11:07:00.004-04:00

What do you get when you mix 90 acres of certified organic farmland, my two dirt loving boys, and a group of the sassiest local Philly Bloggers?

An all out Blackberry Picking Bonanza ~ and a certified Mess!

The Boys and I met up with some fellow members of Philly Social Media Moms, and headed out to Longview Center for Agriculture to learn about sustainable farming, enjoy some straight from the vine tastings, pick gallons of the juiciest and sweetest Blackberries....

and then end our experience with a fresh, and refreshing Peach Slushie....and filling up on the amazing local organic products in the market.....Everything from Maple Syrup and out of this world Strawberry Jam, to Whole Bean Coffee, Pasta Sauces and even Beauty Products...

It was an absolutely perfect day to channel my inner farmer, and also my inner foodie, and have a complete (no pun intended) growing experience....

Our "Tour Farmer" took the crew around and gave us such an education on sustainable growing practices, as well as the mission of the farm, and how all the different plants not only taste amazing, even straight off the vine, but also have their own unique eco-function, that helps keep this farm growing and prospering.

and the orchard......though it's bounty is still not quite ripe.....it makes me yearn for one of those crisp fall days....when I promise we will be back to fill our baskets with more apples then we would know what to do with.

The amazing thing about Longview, is that it is a complete experience. It is an experience for all 5 senses....and you walk away with not only a full belly, but also a full sense of spirit and knowledge.....to know where your produce comes from, how it benefits not only you, but the environment....

and then there were the Blackberries.....oh the Blackberries....the Biggest, Juiciest and messiest berries I think I've ever had....and they boys....oh the boys, who ate 3 for every 1 we picked...

It was a mouth watering homage to summer, that literally was written all over a certain someones little face....

Longview Center for Agriculture (formally Willow Creek Orchards) serves as a center for farm based education, and holds weekly classes on everything from flower arranging to cheese making (yes please) and on August 20th will be hosting a Mater and Tater Festival.....which should quite the experience!

The Longview Center for Agriculture is located at

3215 Stump Hall Road, Collegeville, PA

610-584-8202

Hours of Operation are

Monday – Friday, 9 am – 6:30 pm
Saturday 9am-5pm
Sunday 10am-4pm

Roamin Holiday

2011-07-29T22:05:00.004-04:00

We came, we saw, we conquered. Almost 2 weeks of rest and relaxation in the heart of the midwestern countryside, where the corn and stars are as plentiful as the internet and cell phone service is spotty. It was my definition of the perfect vacation, sitting on a white porch swing, watching the world go by, with no emails to answer, no traffic to fight....I think we could count on two hands the total number of cars that passed down our road, the entirety of our vacation.

It was a vacation, where I was able to bring out my inner cowgirl, and remember why old trucks, small towns, and the notion of work hard and playing harder, hold such a special place in my heart.

My In-laws purchased an amazing little 1890's Farm, that though worn and calloused as the hands of the generations of farmers who have lived in her, with a little spit and polish, I know she will truly shine.

There was nothing better than sitting every morning, on the porch swing, that over looks the small grape orchard, and the acres of corn beyond, that waves in the breeze like a rolling green ocean, as far as the eye can see.....It was a quiet spot to get lost in your thoughts....

and realize, I can survive without internet service.......who knew?

It was a vacation where we made our own fun, of romping through an apple orchard, exploring what secrets the Big Old Barn holds, joy riding on granny and paw's riding lawn mower, and generally getting into good old-fashioned mischief....the kind you find yourself talking about when you are in your 30's....

the kind I talk about, now that I'm in my 30's....

It was the quality time, we all were starving for. After only seeing The Husband a total of 2 weeks over the last 3 months, we drank in every second, and didn't think once about if and when he would be leaving again...

It was the vacation we pinned the new Sheriff in town, and had a first birthday celebration, any young cowboy would be proud of.....

We laughed till we cried.....and even cried till we laughed, and some of us even brought out our inner BraveHeart and trudged off to seize the day....

In the buff......

It was a vacation that even though the days seemed to go slow....ended much too soon....

and Here I am, back in my own kitchen, missing the melt in your mouth doughnuts from Brumbaughs, that white porch swing, that little farmhouse with no air conditioning,

and I can even say, I even miss no internet......

Even with missing all the wonderful things that make me long to live away from the hustle and bustle that is my everyday life....

I have to say.....

It's nice to be home

Artistic Expression

2011-07-14T06:56:00.006-04:00

I started and deleted this post a 100 times this morning....I am in no way an accomplished writer....heck I put an ellipsis after just about every sentence, and I know my 11th grade English teacher would be cringing in her pea green, squeaky desk chair right now if she knew. I'm even a less accomplished writer when I'm stressed, sleep deprived....or I've eaten an entire pint of Ben and Jerry's.....which I think this post can be the result of all three.....

So if, you decide to continue reading, please be forewarned, I'm in no way responsible for the lack of coherence, and over use of ellipses, sentence fragments and incomplete thoughts....remember it's coming from the brain of a woman who is running on all four cylinders while holding a candle that happens to be burning at both ends.....

This week has been a whirlwind.....one of those weeks that you absolutely can't wait for the sun to go down, because its the first time, you can actually say the only thing you have to do is go to sleep....and even then, I've been dreaming of the 2000 other things I have to do tomorrow....which I guess is today.....

I've never been the absolute best multi-tasker, if I ever have a future job interview, I'm not sure it would be at the top of my best attributes list, though I think I should clarify, I'm not a good multi-tasker with all the things I keep piling on my schedule....

I'm come from the house of Yes I can.......when I probably should be saying....Let me Check

Earlier this week, I was busy, frazzled, hot, sweaty and getting to be a little short tempered....I had done all I could do, and was about to just call in Friday a few days early.....and not care that the rest of the world still needed Wednesday and Thursday...

When my hero of the day, the mailman came flying in his gleaming boxed truck, and saved me from another day of failing miserably at multi-tasking,......and becoming 2 steps away from a mini-mommy meltdown....by sticking a package on our doorstep.....and then as quickly as he came.....

driving off into the sunset....probably to save another frazzled, overly busy mommy....

Inside this well wrapped package addressed to the Birthday Boy were what would turn this mommys frown upside down, and throw both my to-do lists, and ideas of multi-tasking out the window...

staring up at me from the nest of packing peanuts and bubble wrap were 2 Paint Brushes and 4 Pots of paint from G.G.....(otherwise known as Granny with a gold star)

Though at first, I had to cringe, as giving paints as a gift to anyone under the age of 20....is along the same lines as giving a kid a drum set for his birthday......there really should also be a bottle of Advil and an apology note....for the headache they soon will cause.....

But, when I saw the Excitement on 2 little faces peering up at me from below as I pulled out the paints, my thoughts quickly changed from "O GOD MESS".....to "YES YES YES"......or maybe it was an "Eh....why not".......

So we ventured outside under the afternoon shade, and I sat and watched (and maybe refereed a little) two boys work the canvas like a seasoned pro......

With hands, Feet, Brushes and Even Diapers......they put their heart and soul into their work.....and created two very fine pieces of art.....and I may have once or twice indulged the urge to put my fingers in and make a swirl or two

and I got to have an afternoon, where I put all my "To Do" lists in the junk drawer....where they probably belong.....

and did what I really should be doing....which is having fun with my kids.....

Amazing how some washable (GO G.G) paint, some old cardboard, and 40 totally messy toes can remind you of what's important, and why I gave up a super Busy Full time job in the first place.....

Thanks Mr. Mail Man.....and Thank you GG.......Today, I'm thinking Pottery?

Scenes From a Cake Smashing

2011-07-11T08:51:00.004-04:00

Last Weekend my Baby celebrated his very first birthday....and to say the least I cried a little.

A year ago, when I was still chilling in my uber-chic hosptial gown and holding the most precious thing in the whole world.....I never even thought about how fast this year would go.....

though I probably should have had some idea....with the last three years with my first born......those could win the Indy 500 with how fast they've flown.....oh there go the tears again....

It was only a short year ago, that I was so, so, so very large.....I swore my doctor had lied to me, as a cruel joke, and that I was going to giving birth to at least 2 babies.......if not more. My daily routine consisted of waddling behind a rambunctious 2 year old, trying to figure out a new and better way to try and put on shoes....if only I could see my feet.....and swearing up and down this is my LAST pregnancy.....EVER

and then I met him....the boy who I have a feeling will be my shadow......who I will be kicking out the door to go hang with his friends, because he'd rather hang with his cooler than cool mom....and the one who will probably be living at home, much longer than he should......

and the one who made me rethink my promise that he would be my last pregnancy EVER. Though I'm not sure the hubster is going along with that one......

So to my chagrin....this year has come....and my baby has turned the big 0-1.....sigh

The hubster is off again....flying those not so friendly skies, the BIG celebration is just going to have to wait till he gets home....and let me tell you it is going to be the shindig to beat all shindigs.....with cowboy boots, big barns....and BBQ........

But this week, we still need to celebrate my wee-man's special day.....and what better way than an old fashioned cake smashing. My Baby, my Camera and I went to a fabulous little spot....that I swear could be the inspiration for Christopher Robin and all his friends in The Hundred Acre Wood......

and had a wonderfully messy time......

My sweet, sweet boy......who has made this family complete....who solidified my love for having sons.....and has made every day so much brighter, when you gift me with one of your 1000 watt smiles, that reach all the way to your big brown eyes......

and thank you for having mommy's eyes.....I was starting to feel a little out numbered.....

You are my special gift.....my special boy.....

and I will love you forever and a day........

I wish you so much for your birthday.....but most of all I wish you love, and happiness and peace of spirit.....all of which you give to me.....

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

2011-07-09T14:48:00.004-04:00

HI Friends.....What have you been up to this fine weekend? Oh, That sounds absolutely fantastic.......Me? I'm so glad you asked.....I've had a busy busy morning photographing this cutie-patootie.....squishy tushy pants......for his first Birthday.......but before I finish taking the remainder of the icing out of my hair....

I just HAD to thank you Everyone who shared your best "parenting" advice with me.....my neighbor stopped me in the cul-de-sac this morning, and informed me that I was being a little sexist in labeling it "mom" advice....I humbly apologize.....

But you all shared some fabulous advice.....many of which I think I've heard spoken to me over a pork chop dinner or two.......

But alas....Only 1 fabulous entry can win....and I left the choosing up to Random.org, because My three year old would probably take the number and run....and the sniff sniff 1 year old would eat it.....

so the lucky winner of the only books I find myself reading these days......

And the Winner is

#68

Laurie who was Wonderful in Subscribing to Project Mommyhood through her Email! :-)

And I'm just throwing this out there.....if anyone who happens to read this far down....can tell me how to save a screen shot of a webpage on a Mac....and then open it as a jpeg....I would be eternally grateful....

In The Kitchen: Caprese Pasta Salad

2011-07-08T07:00:00.003-04:00

The hubster and I have this favorite little Italian restaurant that we love to go to.....which in New Jersey, Italian restaurants are like Starbucks, or Mommy Bloggers, there seems to be one on every corner.....so finding one that you can call your absolute favorite...takes a lot of leg work, and Pasta eating....

This place, is a little hole in the wall, tucked in an almost run down strip mall, next door to a computer repair store that's closed 6 out of 7 days a week, and a dry cleaners that has been around since the before the Eisenhower Administration....If you didn't know it was there, you wouldn't know it was there....

And let me tell you, the inside is just as unimpressive as the outside. The decor is Welcome Back Kotter meets Kid N Play.....and you wouldn't be surprised if the attire of choice was a velour track suit and gold chains....and I'm not talking about the ladies.....

But the Food is out of this world, as good as in any 5 star Italian restaurant in Manhattan, and definitely could have a face off with the likes of Mario Batali or Giada De Laurentiis.

I am well and truly addicted.....and it definitely justifies the extra hour a week I must spend on the eliptical.....

This mouth watering, pasta dish reminds me of all the amazing flavors that come out of that little kitchen in that out of the way, italian eatry, and this one won't make you have to run to the gym the next day, to work off the guilt....

though it did help me work my way to a food hangover on the 4th.....oy.....

It is the absolute perfect pasta salad for summer, and only needs a warm night, a patio set....and maybe some of those citronella candles to keep the 'squiteers away.....

Caprese Pasta Salad

1 lb Cherry Tomatoes, halved

2 tsp. dried oregano

3 Cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp salt

1/4 c. olive oil

1 16 oz package rotini pasta

1/3 c. olive oil

2 tbs white wine vinegar

1/2 tsp cracked black pepper

8 oz mozzarella balls or cubed mozzarella

1/2 c. snipped fresh basil

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees, you will arrange your tomato halves on a foil lined baking sheet, cut half facing up. Drizzle tomatoes with 1/4 c. of olive oil, and sprinkle with oregano, salt, and minced garlic. Roast tomatoes for 20-25 minutes until they are a tad shriveled

Try not to eat too many of the delectable things when they come out of the oven

2. while tomatoes are roasting, boil the pasta in salted water and drain when pasta is al dente. Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/3 c. olive oil and the white wine vinegar and pepper. Toss in with the cook pasta. Cool off pasta to at least room temperature....otherwise it will start to melt the mozzarella when you add it

3. Add the tomatoes and make sure you add all the drippings from the pan (that's the good stuff)....also add the mozzarella and the basil...toss to combine....you can serve at room temperature, but I prefer it cold....so best to put in the fridge for a good 2-3 hours before serving....then give one final toss....

Then all thats left is to eat more than your fair share....and no velour track suits are required....

A Banner Fourth

2011-07-06T09:38:00.004-04:00

Though You will notice that once any holiday rolls around, it inevitably becomes my favorite....but the 4th always holds an extra special place in my patriotic little heart....

so much so that I prayed extra hard last year when I so BIG and So CUMBERSOME and SO Pregnant...that the Bug Man would really want to have fireworks on his birthday every year, though he obviously was perfectly happy in his current rental space, and waited another very long and very hot three days.

This year, we celebrated with a go with the flow, fly by the seat of our pants strategy.....where the wind took us.....we went....With the Hubs off flying the not so friendly skies, and working hard to help keep our freedoms free......there wasn't much need for anything structured

Go figure, the Military man is the more structured of us.....the poor man has to live with a disorganized, forgetful free spirit....who's mantra is "why make the bed, when it gets messed up again in a few hours?".....But I'm slowly becoming a convert.....

I've even made the bed all week....though it's only Wednesday....just saying

So this fourth was me and the wee ones....dressing up in our red-white and blue, and seeing what South Jersey has to offer us.....

and we certainly weren't disappointed.

We opened our celebration with a jaunt to our local Fourth of July Parade.....where the lines of Boy Scouts, High school marching bands, police Bag-Pipers, and local patriots, took me back to all the wonderful small town 4th of July parades of my youth.....

though I don't remember ever seeing a mummer in our Small town Parades.....a Philadelphia region tradition....and I need to find out where I can snag that hat

We followed the Parade up with a scrumptious celebratory feast with all the fixings, including probably the most amazing pasta salad in the world.......

And of course......we had to finish off the night with the peace de resistance.......and took in an awesome show of pyrotechnic ingenuity.....

It was an almost perfect day, you can tell by how much dirt and chocolate ends up on the face of the wee-ones (and if it was really a banner day, even on mine) .......with only missing one very tall, and very handsome thing that would have been the absolute cherry on top....

I hope you all had a wonderful, blessed and safe Holiday.....

and now onto my next favorite holiday......Labor Day

Wish You Were Here

2011-07-04T07:00:00.001-04:00

As the Boys and I get ready for today's Festivities of finding the absolute perfect spot in which to watch the annual 4th of July Parade, eating way more hotdogs than my scale would be happy with, and watch as the sky lights up, and twinkles in the eyes of a three year old...

we will be holding a spot, saving a plate and taking it all in for one person who is working so hard to make sure we are able to celebrate and enjoy our Nations Independence....

The Wild Blue Yonder has called once again.....and Uncle Sam and Lady Liberty are bosses that don't usually give holidays off......

So my amazing, wonderful Airman.......We wish you were here....

But I'll make sure to eat an extra hot dog for you

And to all of you My friends.....may you have a happy and safe 4th...

I walked through a county courthouse square,
On a park bench an old man was sitting there.
I said, "Your old courthouse is kinda run down."
He said, "Naw, it'll do for our little town."
I said, "Your flagpole has leaned a little bit,
And that's a Ragged Old Flag you got hanging on it.

He said, "Have a seat", and I sat down.
"Is this the first time you've been to our little town?"
I said, "I think it is." He said, "I don't like to brag,
But we're kinda proud of that Ragged Old Flag."

"You see, we got a little hole in that flag there
When Washington took it across the Delaware.
And it got powder-burned the night Francis Scott Key
Sat watching it writing _Oh Say Can You See_.
And it got a bad rip in New Orleans
With Packingham and Jackson tuggin' at its seams."

"And it almost fell at the Alamo
Beside the Texas flag, but she waved on through.
She got cut with a sword at Chancellorsville
And she got cut again at Shiloh Hill.
There was Robert E. Lee, Beauregard, and Bragg,
And the south wind blew hard on that Ragged Old Flag."

"On Flanders Field in World War I
She got a big hole from a Bertha gun.
She turned blood red in World War II
She hung limp and low by the time it was through.
She was in Korea and Vietnam.
She went where she was sent by her Uncle Sam."

"She waved from our ships upon the briny foam,
And now they've about quit waving her back here at home.
In her own good land she's been abused --
She's been burned, dishonored, denied and refused."

"And the government for which she stands
Is scandalized throughout the land.
And she's getting threadbare and wearing thin,
But she's in good shape for the shape she's in.
'Cause she's been through the fire before
And I believe she can take a whole lot more."

"So we raise her up every morning,
Take her down every night.
We don't let her touch the ground
And we fold her up right.
On second thought I DO like to brag,
'Cause I'm mighty proud of that Ragged Old Flag."

Written by Johnny Cash

What To Expect: A Giveaway

2011-07-01T07:00:00.001-04:00

I remember the first thing that the husband and I excitedly did....when we first found out we were pregnant with our first child.....besides stare at the plus sign for a good 20 minutes to see if it would change.....

We headed straight to Barnes and Nobles and bought "What to Expect When You're Expecting".....as we had NO idea what to expect over the next 40 weeks of our lives. It lived on my bedside table, and became our window into all the changes that we both could and couldn't see happening....and helped me get answers to questions I may have......(okay DEFINITELY) was too embarrassed to ask my doctor about.....ie anything pooping related.....

After Noah was born, my nicely dogeared "What to Expect When You're Expecting".....was replaced by a Shiny New Copy of "What to Expect the First Year".....which helped us navigate everything from the umbilical cord falling off.....to is my child still normal if he's not quite walking yet at 12 months....(I admit I was worried at first)

Now I'm firmly engrossed in both "What to Expect the 2nd Year" and "What to Expect The Toddler Years"....it is my insiders guide to the mind of a toddler.....and helping me wade through the world of tantrums, potty training....and having 2 under the age of 4......

and having 2 under the age of 4 has left little to no time to even open a book......but thanks to both WhattoExpect.com....and the What to Expect App for the Iphone.....if I don't know the answer....it is never more than a click away....

You can access their site by clicking on the What To Expect Button on my sidebar

Giveaway

I am so excited that WhatToExpect.com and I are teaming up to give to one lucky reader a copy of each....

What to Expect When You're Expecting

What to Expect the First Year

What to Expect The Second Year

TO ENTER:

Leave a Comment on this post, answering this question:

"What is your best advice your mom gave you"

It's really that easy......

Extra Entries:

1) Follow Project Mommyhood the Blog (must be publicly)

2) Follow Project Mommyhood either by RSS or Email

3) Follow Project Mommyhood on Twitter

4) Follow What to Expect on Facebook

5) Follow What to Expect on Twitter

Lots and lots of chances to win.....

Contest runs until Friday July 8th at 11:59 PST

Winner has 24 hours to contact me before a new winner is chosen

In The Kitchen: Banana Bread

2011-06-29T07:00:00.002-04:00

There are 101 reasons I think I love Banana Bread....once I slather softened butter on a big thick slice, make it 102....

Not only was it probably the easiest A I ever received in all my years of school...as the first baking project in 7th grade Home Ec Class...

It is the perfect Go to gift idea for when your neighbor has had knee surgery, or it's the end of the year and you still feel the need to bribe your child's teacher.

Baking a loaf or 5 always makes the kitchen smell amazing, and makes me long for crisp Fall Afternoons.....

Banana Bread is cheap....

Banana Bread is versatile.....throw in some nuts....or if you really want to get all bra-burning crazy, add some chocolate chips ( that will get the tongues wagging)

....and in this day and age, it's the only way on this green earth, my 3 year old will get near Bananas....

Plus Banana Bread is kind of miraculous in it's own way. I mean, who in their right mind would think that anything good could come from mushy, brown bananas that really look like they would be better served tossed in the trash than in my Kitchen Aid Stand mixer.

Behold....probably the easiest and by far (in my humble opinion) the BEST Banana Bread Recipe known to man.....

Banana Bread

Ingredients

2 c. all purpose flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1/4 tsp. salt

1/2 c. butter

2 eggs, beaten

2 1/3 c mashed overripe bananas

optional:

1/2 c. chopped walnuts

1/2 c. chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a 9 x 5 in. loaf pan

2. In large bowl, combine flour, salt and baking soda. In a separate bowl, you are going to want to cream the butter and brown sugar. To the Butter Mixture, you will add the 2 eggs and the mashed bananas. stir until well blended.

3. Add the Banana Mixture to the Flour Mixture and stir until blended. Add Walnuts or Chocolate chips at this time. Pour Batter into prepared loaf pan

4. Bake in preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, until inserting a toothpick into the center comes out clean. Cool for at least 10 minutes before placing on wire rack.

Best served warm....with a big ole slather of butter......the guilt can come later

The Proof...

2011-06-27T08:21:00.007-04:00

Is written on his face.....

That the Bakery at our local Weekend Farmers Market....really does have the BEST chocolate Frosted Donuts this side of the Mississippi.....

I swear he's like....."Donut? What donut? I didn't see any donuts"

Not to mention....

The Biggest Radishes I've EVER seen......and I normally HATE radishes

Super sweet Honey Sticks....that bring a sparkle to my 3 year olds Big Blue Eyes....

The Truck of my Dreams.......This purple Beauty has to deal with my drool every Saturday....see...I think over there on the left...you can see some left over drool from last week.....

and where did he come from? .....I think I'll Bag him up and take him home with me......(you can even see the last of the donut situation happening behind him.....yummmmmm)

How was your weekend?

Growing Up

2011-06-24T08:09:00.005-04:00

I know it's been since Monday, that I've had a new post up, but trying to find a moment to sit and write was a little hard to come by.....between getting myself stuck while trying to teach my 3 year old the finer points of the sit and spin, burning dinner (twice) and trying to get in as much time with the husband before he leaves for the wild brown yonder again .....well, you get the idea.....

And I promise to go into detail one day on the sit and spin incident.....my pride still needs a few days to recover.

This week was also marked the last day of the first year of preschool for my big, little kid....and I fully admit I turned into that totally annoying, overly excited, camera wielding mama....

the one I promised back when I was 17 I was NEVER going to become.....

I hang my head in shame.....

It was such a proud and yet sad moment, as I finally had to let go of thinking of my first born as a "baby" and embrace the fact that he has entered the age of preschool.....

Noah Now....

Noah Then....

Lord, if it's this hard for me now at the age of three....what am I going to do when he actually hits elementary school...

Even with me having an wee internal mommy struggle while watching him standing with his class, I was so proud of him as he went up to receive the award for "BEST HELPER" in class.....

I think is a pretty special award to get.....and much better than the awards I would receive which would be "WORST DANCER"....or "MOST ENTHUSIASTIC" (but annoying)

I have to admit too though, I thought he also should have received "SNAPPIEST DRESSER" just saying.....

And....do I get a bad mark on my mommy report card for actually thinking it's sweet that he's the smallest one in his class? I actually found it endearing that he was the little peanut down in front!

I think My neighbor, the shrink would say it was helping me in my mental transition of seeing my son as a baby....to a growing boy....

Whether it's just my propensity to love things that are cute and small....or a psychological need to keep my 3 year old a baby a while longer....

My Baby is growing up....

and I will be there for all these milestones...front and center...with my camera ready!

* Adorable Mustache Love Shirt: Finley and Oliver

What a Perfect Day Looks Like

2011-06-20T10:54:00.011-04:00

This is what a Perfect Day Looks like, One of being together, when we thought we would be celebrating Father's Day via Skype or a long distance telephone call. Instead my Mommy heart swells.....to see my three favorite guys, doing what guys like to do.....going fishing...

I have to guilitly admit too, that I was extra thrilled that Dad was home, because I don't have the first clue how to tie a lure, or where to cast to get the best fish.....I can fudge being a guy with the best of them.....though I know it pales in comparison to the real deal (I'll never even begin to figure out the art of peeing while standing up, and I continue to throw like a girl).....and I'm happy that I wasn't the one teach a fascinated three year old the finer points of baiting a hook.....

Instead, I got to do what I love to do.....sit back, and capture my amazing, and beautiful family with my trusty lens...

I asked The Husband what he wanted to do for Father's Day....even though I was covertly trying to figure out how I was going to get him, his golf bag and his golf shoes in one place, without giving him too many hints that he was going golfing....But my tall, dark and studly man....gave me an easy out and also probably the the best brownie point answer I think he could give....that all he wanted for Father's Day, was to spend it with his family.....

So the golf bag stayed down in the man cave....and the shoes got replaced by the tackle box....

and it really did end up being the perfect day......and dad didn't have to worry about his slice...

FootPrints

Author: Unknown

"Walk a little Slower Daddy" said a child so small.

"I'm following in your footsteps

and I don't want to fall."

Sometimes your steps are very fast,

Sometimes they're hard to see;

So walk a little slower, Daddy,

For you are leading me.

Someday when I'm all grown up,

You're what I want to be;

Then I will have a little child

Who'll want to follow me.

And I would want to lead just right

and know that I was true.

So, walk a little slower, Daddy,

For I must follow you.

To Die For Triple Chocolate Cookies

2011-06-17T08:45:00.003-04:00

Chocolate......That amazing word that conjurs many a happy memory, and makes me yearn for nothing more than the latest episode of the "Real Housewives Series" and something warm, gooey and rich. Chocolate has helped me through everything from late night cram sessions in collegs ( thanks to a VERY large stash of Reese's Cups) to the latest escapade pulled off by Super Noah and his side kick Wonder Ryan....usually a Big Bowl of Ben and Jerry's Half Baked....or a walk by handful of chocolate chips from the pantry.

The delectable goodness that is chocolate, has at times ruled my life ....usually during that time of the month....and also is a major accessory to the crime of me gaining a whopping 75 lbs with each pregnancy. It is friend as well as foe.....I am whether good or bad, exposing all who are around me to my self-described addiction....

I'm finishing off my 5th one of these absolutely AHMAZZING Cookies as I write this post. Now granted I don't ever really need a reason to make chocolate cookies....the fact that today is one day closer to the weekend works for me....but this particular batch of chocolatey heaven is made especially for Noah's Teachers and Bus Drivers as a BIG thank you f0r making his transition to preschool sooo easy. We doubled the recipe so that there were plenty for not only our gift recipients, but also plenty for us to enjoy.

Even though the fact that these cookies contain three versions of my favorite food group (and YES chocolate is a food group), Noah being able to get his wee hand dirty, and have an amazing time playing "baker" with mommy....and putting his own personal stamp on his gift to his teachers, meant everything....

This is a super easy recipe, and I promise you will be licking not only the bowl, but the spoon, the cookie sheet....and maybe even the countertop if there are any leftover blobs of dough.....

To Die For Tripe Chocolate Cookies

Ingredients

2/3 C. Butter Softened

2/3 C. Shortening

1 C. Granulated Sugar

1 C. Packed Brown Sugar

1 tsp. Baking Soda

1/2 tsp. salt

2 eggs

2 tsp vanilla

1/3 c. unsweetened Cocoa Powder

3 c. flour

1 1/2 c. semi sweet chocolate morsels

1 c. chopped walnuts

1/2 c. milk chocolate pieces

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. With Stand Mixer or in large mixing bowl, beat butter and shortening for 30 seconds, until smooth. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar, baking soda and salt. Beat to combine. You may need to scrape the sides of the bowls periodically.

Next Beat in the Eggs and vanilla, until combined. Then beat in cocoa powder and the flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until it is hard to mix. The last 1/2 cup you may need to add and combine by hand. Stir in Chocolate morsels, walnuts and chocolate pieces until well combined.

Measure out a 1/4 c. size ball of dough and drop onto ungreased cookie sheet. Press each cookie to create a 1/4 in. round. (These cookies do not flatten on their own) Bake for 12-14 minutes , then cool 2 minutes on cookie sheet before transferring to wire rack to finish cooling.

makes 24 cookies

All you need to finish off these amazing morsels of goodness is a BIG tall and preferably Ice Cold Glass of Milk!

Why I'm not a Perfect Mom

2011-06-15T08:45:00.003-04:00

(Reason 1265 I'm not a Perfect Mom, I love taking and posting pictures like this of my kiddos)

I had a totally different post in mind today, but after this morning's breakfast routine, I found myself wanting to steer today's post in a new direction...

Why I am not a member of the "Perfect Mom Club"....

Now I'm not sure if the reason for me airing my "mommy dirty laundry" is to just express it out loud, and get it off my chest, or to maybe get some validation that I'm not the only one who is denied membership of being a Perfect Mom....

This morning was a PERFECT example of my far from perfect status...

Did I give my child Chocolate pudding at breakfast....as a bribe for him to eat his fruit? Guilty as charged.....

Have I used Elmo and Dora as unpaid babysitters a few times, so I could fold a load of laundry or empty the dishwasher? I have.....

Have I succumbed to a fit of laughter in front of my son, when I should have been discipling him for covering with an entire bag of flour.....I bow my head in shame....

Have I lost my temper a time or two, and yelled when I should have counted to 10......10 times.....YES YES YES.....

After having forgotten to refill the diapers in the diaper bag, have I stuffed my sons pants with T.P. in a poor attempt at being McGyver? You Can Read That Story HERE

Do I try EVERY Day to be the best mom and wife I can? Absolutely!

Do I Take the "Rule" book of good parenting, and stuff it under my living room couch some days? Some Days I wish I could Burn it

Do I really want to be a member of an exclusive club that says that unless I do everything by the book, I won't raise a healthy, happy and well rounded child? Perfection is overrated anyway

I could list 1000 things that I know would secure my permanent ban from ever joining the "Perfect Mom's Club"....though I'm thinking the people that are members are either A) Stepford Wives which is just plain creepy....or B) it's something a kin to the Loch Ness Monster....and it's out there yet no one really can prove they've seen it.....

Even with doing some things that I know may bring a frown among the other mom's at the playground ie: the pudding for breakfast incident.....but it WAS sugar free...I'm sure I would be hard pressed to find one amongst them that hasn't pulled a similar stunt a time or two...maybe it was giving into a tantrum in the checkout line of Target....just to be able to pay and go....the toy from the $1 bin...was so worth a moment of sanity.......

Parenting like marriage is a marathon not a sprint......Wish I had been philosophical enough to come up with that one, but mine are more along the lines of Parenting is like opening up a baby's diaper...you never know what you are going to get.....see another example....I like diaper humor....stepford mom's don't like diaper humor.....

I feel it's taking each situation as it comes....and I think NOT being perfect allows for fun, and spontaneity, and being honest and human....and showing our children, that yes mommy does make mistakes. Mommy is sorry for yelling, or sometimes we do eat dessert first......

It's life...life isn't perfect...and I think on many occasions the things we as moms read, lend itself to our putting ourselves down, and doubting our worth as effective parents...when in reality we should embrace the fact that we are learning just as much as our kids are.

So The Perfect Mom's can have their club.....I'd much rather hang out with the bunch of hooligans and rag-a-muffins that aren't perfect....

who's with me?

Use The Force, Lil Wee Walker, Use The Force

2011-06-13T07:59:00.004-04:00

Who knew that the weekends of a Stay At Home Mom, could end up being SO darn busy?!? Especially with my other half, still halfway around the world, flying the Wild Brown Yonder. I can't begin to tell you how extremely excited I was to look in my date timer, and realize I had NOTHING this weekend....no photo shoots, no play dates, no mommy-dates....nothing,but flying by the seat of our pants....

which is how I like to roll anyway!!!

All those extra things that fill up my days, just kind of snuck up on me, like the 5 lbs that smiled and waved up at me this morning as I stood on my bathroom scale. Once when I was a new mom, of one tiny baby boy, and I had just transitioned from a Full Time Career....to this new Full Time Career, I really wanted to find things to do that would give me the "busy" fix that my job had given me. NOW 3 years and 2 kiddos later, I'm kind of thinking I made that decision on my new mommy high....NOW I long for a day when only having one trip in the car is an amazing feat!

This weekend was spent doing a lot of sitting in the front yard.....watching my wee-walker navigate his way on his newly mobile legs...Beaming at his ability now to not only make a full 90 degree turn without falling, but is also muy Graceful with regards to bending and picking up his favorite worm rattle.....all the while staying up on his little feet.....

Now, my pre-baby, Via Spiga self would be like...."huh?" You really want to spend a FULL morning doing nothing but watching an 11 month old and 3 year old play in the front yard.....

My post-baby, now self would reply...."um...yeah, Don't knock it till you try it"......

It was the BEST day ever, just to sit with my Mucho Grande Iced Coffee....and watch a 3 year old clad in nothing but his Luvs...and his 11 month old shadow enjoy a beautiful saturday morning....

I'm thinking I might have to pencil in more of these "Do Nothing" days.....sometimes filling the date book, isn't all it's cracked up to be....when you find you are missing the best things about being a stay at home mom.

Summertime, and Snotty Noses

2011-06-10T13:01:00.004-04:00

Happy Friday.....

Happy Hot Summer Days.......

Not so happy House full of Snotty Noses, Goopy Eyes, and of course the ever present smell of Vicks Vapor Rub. It was with a heavy heart, that I had to cancel our date with the lake this week, and instead have an Elmo Potty Marathon on the couch....Not exactly the way we wanted to kick off the first week of Summer like days......but as usual in our house, we never seem to go along with convention.

SO, to honor the thought of our naked toes buried in the sand, and little legs slathered in sunscreen, I'm reminiscing about our fabulous inaugural trip to the lake last week.....when the sun was bright....the water was already warm.....and there was not a runny nose in sight!

Welcome Back!!!

2011-06-09T09:37:00.004-04:00

Insert: Theme to "Welcome Back Kotter"

It's hard to believe how fast the last 11 months have gone, within a blink of an eye so much has changed and grown....so much so, that I found myself with little to NO time to devote to writing all the amazing (and sometimes trying) things I was experiencing.....so this poor blog became a weed filled, neglected space, which with the expert hands of Smitten Blog Design, will once again be a place of joy, beauty and life.

I'm changing up my blog...as I found I was having a really hard time finding my place in the blogosphere.....figuring out what kind of writer I wanted to be. It's one of those things, like when you heart tells you one thing, but your head tells you something else? Like when you KNOW you shouldn't date THAT guy....but you do anyway? (Yeah, in a previous life, I married THAT guy). I finally won whatever internal battle I was having, and am finally going to just stick with writing and sharing about the things I love!

My Family

Photography

and ANYTHING Food!

I'm finding that finding myself as a blog writer.....has been a similar journey as I'm trying to find myself as a mother of 2 boys, a military wife.....and a budding professional photographer......

These last 11 months, I think I should entitle "The Year of Discovery".....

I hope you will continue this journey with me!

A New Look.....

2011-04-22T15:44:00.004-04:00

I feel like that awful friend that moved away...and didn't forward their new address...

I really did drop off the face of the blogging world....but all for the greater good...as transitioning from a parent of 1 crazy toddler....to 1 crazy toddler and a busy busy baby has been more difficult for me than I thought, so I've needed the last four months to learn how to juggle not only a baby on my hip, while fixing a PB and J....but also a new fledgling Photography business....as well as continuing to be a military wife, supporting my husband during our 4th deployment.....

But Spring has Sprung.....

and soon the new and improved Project Mommyhood will too! I'm so excited about our new look, and hopefully a beautiful and vibrant new outlook on what Project Mommyhood is....as my view on motherhood as grown and changed :-)

So stay tuned...it won't be long!

Deck the Halls {Wordless Wednesday}

2010-12-08T08:07:00.006-05:00

The Top 5 Signs I'm a Sleep Deprived Mama

2010-12-03T07:43:00.003-05:00

It's been one of those week....where I'm still trying to figure out what day it was 3 days ago, the Baby has decided that 2 AM Infomercials are considered MUST see TV, and I am still trying to recover from my Turkey/Tryptophan overdose on Thanksgiving...with Yesterday Culminating in a day where I and it seems everyone around me has decided that I just really need

A NAP.....

1) Scooped Coffee Creamer into the Baby Bottle, at 4:30 AM while attempting to multitask, by making a bottle for the Buggster, and a necessary cup of Java for me...

2) At my bi-monthly Mom's Time Out...I was heralded as the bravest one in the bunch for daring to wear flip-flops on a 38 degree morning....little did they know, that I had put them on to run out and start the car, COMPLETELY forgetting to change shoes....wore them the rest of the morning....

3) In calling my husband's cell phone, suddenly realizing that I called MY cell phone and not his, when I answered my own call.....

4) Realizing when making dinner, that I needed to take a drive to the Grocery Store to procure more milk, as in my morning haze had placed the Milk in the Pantry...while noticing that the Chips were in the Fridge.

5) After convincing my husband for the 20th time, that I WAS going to stay up to watch the latest episode of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills...I promptly fell asleep before the end of Wheel of Fortune.....

Three Weeks and Counting

2010-12-01T08:45:00.003-05:00

I've been a neglectful blogger these days, but not for lack of heart or willingness or a major case of writer's block....

It's that time again, where The Project Mommyhood Family is getting ready for another one of it's bi-annual deployments, where my Amazing Airman, flies across the wild blue yonder to continue is duty to country....

He is leaving right before Christmas this year, so we are having to pack both literally and figuratively months worth of things into the next three weeks......and unfortunately my cherished moments to reflect, reach-out and write....have gotten pushed to the back of the closet, along with my flip flops, sun-tan lotion and those skinny jeans I STILL can't fit one butt cheek into....

I WILL be back regularly....It may not be this week....It may not be next....but this poor neglected blog, which is one more step towards mutiny, will get the love and support it needs...

my family just needs it a little more right now!

XOXO

77Kids: Wishing For Snow and Giving Big! Event and Giveaway (Closed)

2010-11-15T14:01:00.016-05:00

The Boys and I spent a FABULOUS Monday morning at the 77kids new Cherry Hill Location, kicking off the Holiday Season, and learning about an AMAZING way that through them, I can help Give Back through their Magical Holiday Window Event and Wish-4-Snow!

It was a fantastic breakfast Kickoff, where myself and 3 other local mom-bloggers were able get a first look at the New, and CRAZY-fun, kid interactive Holiday Window display, check out the adorable and affordable new clothing collections, and see all the added value that 77kids offers patrons.

It was my first time in 77kids, and I can't tell you how cool I think this store is. From the peepholes in the dressing rooms, to the activity stations throughout the store, everything is kid friendly, and kid accessible. Noah's FAVORITE part was the touch screen live feed video monitor/prize card reader. After scanning his card, he was able to check out the scrumptious prize counter and pick out a goodie for himself....(I want one)!

77kids also has a killer Holiday window display, that even has an interactive "ski race" that kids (or adults) can try!

Check out the rest of the photos from this fun and fabulous event on the P.M Flickr page!

This event was such a fun and kid friendly way to get involved, and learn about the Wonderful Holiday driven mission 77kids is initiating this year!

It is the Goal of 77kids to have visitors/customers create 100,000 snowflakes between November 15 and December 14th. If they reach this goal, they will donate and ADDITIONAL $25,000 to the Children's Hospitals ABOVE the donations already raised.

How You can Help Give BIG to Help Some Amazing Local Children's Hospitals:

IN STORE:

Visit a 77Kids Location and

~ Donate 77 Cents OR more towards a local Children's Hospital

~ Write your name/wish on a snowflake, that will be placeed on the "Blizzard Wall" in the store

~ Receive a "You Done Good" Bumper sticker which will direct you to the "Wish-4-Snow" Microsite.

ONLINE:

Visit the 77kids Microsite

Once you create a snowflake online, you will be eligable to win a $77 gift card from 77kids. One Gift card will be given away daily. You also will be entered to WIN the GRAND PRIZE:

An AMAZING Block Party for you and 77 Friends! Including a Snow Machine!

I've made 5 snowflakes so far! It takes only 30 seconds to do, and it's amazing how 30 seconds can benefit in such a big way!

AND

ONE Lucky Project Mommyhood Reader will Win a $50 77kids Gift Card, to help kick off their Holiday Shopping!

Mandatory Entry:

create a snowflake on the 77kids microsite

Extra Entries:

a) Follow 77kids on either Facebook or Twitter

b) Tweet about the 77kids Wish-4-Snow Initiative (use hash tag #77kids)

c) Post F.B. Status Update about Wish-4-Snow Initiative (with link)

d) make another snowflake on the 77kids microsite (you can enter up to 5 times with a snowflake entry, including mandatory first entry)

Giveway Runs until December, 6th at 11:59 PM PST.

Winner has 24 hours to respond with info, before new winner is chosen.

Where Have You Been?

2010-10-18T09:52:00.004-04:00

The sales associate at my favorite "guilty pleasure" store loudly asked that of me the other day, when I walked in for the first time in about...oh 2 months....

I'm realizing it's been about that long since I've been here as well....as I logged on this morning, I could almost hear my blog squeal in delight....and ask...."Where Have You Been?".....

I sheepishly shrug my shoulders....and say.....

This.....

and this.....

and these.....

oh and this.....

Life has kept me so extremely busy, between starting my own photography business, and being a mom to 2 bouncy boys, and a military wife..I suddenly realized, that I had to re prioritize my life....and unfortunately Project Mommyhood got stuck on the bottom of the list.....but I think I'm at a place, where I can re commit....and re launch....

So.....now the question should be...

Where am I going now?

Stay tuned.....

Giveaway: Baby Legs

2010-09-10T06:00:00.003-04:00

Labor Day Weekend is now behind us, the kiddos are back in school.....mornings have a bit of bite in the air....and it's seems to me to be the perfect time to think about....

Leg Warmers.....what?

Leg Warmers are SO not just for 6 year old ballerinas....or wanna be Olivia Newton John Circa 1982....oh no, leg warmers and especially Baby Legs...are a total MUST have item for your baby or tot.

heck, if they made super cute matching mommy legs, you might actually see me sporting some while in line at the Grocery Store, or chilling at Story Time at the Library....I mean come on....Stylish and Functional?

I ADORE my BabyLegs......and I only wish I had bought 50 pair plus stock in the company when Noah was born.

Soft, cute, practical....reminds me somewhat of my Hubs....maybe that's why I love them so much....

I get all excited knowing that I won't have to pull down pants when changing Buggies Diaper....plus...his chubby little legs just look so darn cute in his blue and orange stripes....

Noah too looks pretty freaking cute sporting his cool kid legs....the perfect thing to wear while running around the front yard in his red boxer briefs....

Now not only do BabyLegs make those to die for Leg warmers for Girls and Boys of almost every size....but they also make fun, funky and totally baby-licious socks and tights for wee ones too. Noah is one of those funny kids that hates the ridges at the toes of his socks.....you know the one....

I bet you have one at your house too....

these socks are magic....I actually kissed them....really...

I did....

you know you'd do it too.....

WIN IT

I am so very excited that BabyLegs is offering

one very lucky reader a Grab Bag of leg warmers!

Boy, Girl or Gender Neutral.

Sorry, no Mommy leg size...I already asked....

Mandatory Entry!

You must do 1 of the following!

(must put valid email address with entry)

You must "Like" BabyLegs Facebook Page

Follow BabyLegs on Twitter

Join the BabyLegs Forum

Additional Entries

1. Do any of the other above possible mandatory entries

2. Follow Project Mommyhood on Facebook

3. Follow Project Mommyhood on Twitter and tweet this:

@babylegs and @prjctmommyhood are giving away a Grab Bag of BabyLegs Leg Warmers! Enter now!

http://bit.ly/bSj7Nw

4. Vote for Project Mommyhood on Top Baby Blogs

Button on sidebar

Contest Runs until Sept 25th at 11:59 PM PST

Open to US residents Only

Winner has 48 hours to reply with information before new winner is chosen

...With Baby Legs

2010-09-08T05:18:00.008-04:00

September seems to be my month for beginnings....

This Blog was born in September, Noah Baby Boutique was created in September...and The Wee Bugster was lovingly conceived in September...Must be that seasonal change that gets my creativity buzzing....

the mornings are a little crisper, the leaves are just beginning to hint at the changes to come, and my husband breathes a little easier as my need for pedicures drops considerably.....

You can tell it's September

Because I'm at it Again...

I'm making the Leap...With Baby Legs...into the world of Portrait and Lifestyle Photography.

I think, I may need to go to group.....

as if I'm not busy enough with a 2 year old, a 2 month old, a not quite hobby-not quite business, and a blog....

heck....I attended Super Woman School.....though I dropped out after the first year, as I realized my butt is not attractive in the spandex uniform, and I may be able to know what mess my children are making behind a closed door, but I can't for the life of me see where I put my car keys...

But even Super Woman had an alter ego as a photographer....or was that Super Man.....

Just call me Clark Kent......or Lois Lane......

I'm so excited about this new journey I am embarking on...and as you can see, the Wee Man is pretty freaking excited too....

and in honor of my leap...with Baby Legs, he decided to sport his own....

and if you LOVE his adorable leg attire, stay tuned for later this week, as I'll be giving away a grab bag of Baby Legs to a lucky reader.....

Check out Lesley Worley Photography, and you can Book a Session if you live in the Camden or Burlington Counties in New Jersey.

I Heart September.....

The Evolution of a Blog

2010-09-02T17:12:00.003-04:00

This week marks 2 years since I began this blogging journey...

that's 24 months, whatever 365 times 2 is days....and I don't even want to figure out how many hours, since I was crazy enough to start writing about motherhood....especially since I had no clue....

I still have no clue.....I just fake it a little better.

Looking back on the hundreds of posts I've written, I've seen how this blog has evolved.....how I've tried to find my blogging identity, and in many ways feel I am STILL trying to find my blogging identity, and what I'm finding out is, I actually am still trying to figure out my mommy identity as well...

I feel like I've learned a lot in the last 24 months...in both in how to be a good blogger, but more importantly on how to be a good mother...

I've raised a baby into toddler.....

with only 2 trips to the ER...which I hear is actually on the good side

dealt with the pain of going through a miscarriage....

navigated through deployments and life as a single parent......

and have been so blessed to become pregnant again, and deliver an amazing, happy and healthy baby boy....

Two years...

and what I found interesting, and kind of funny is that I can actually say I'm somewhat in the same place I was two years ago, give or take a few months....sleepless nights, days filled with bottles, and diapers and yearning for a nap...

the more things change, the more they stay the same....or do they?

I'm finding that as this journey winds through days, weeks and months, I'm fascinated by realizing some very important facts....

That parenting a new baby is like riding a bicycle.....or a horse.....just without a helmet or a saddle.....

Just because one baby didn't deal in projectile spit up....doesn't mean the next one isn't a world champ at it....

Loving a Second Baby....comes just as easy as Loving the First....and your heart Really is big enough for both of them.....

It IS possible to find you time......even if it's at an hour when most people are leaving the bars...

and who knew that just being in the same room with your significant other, without any kids in the room, could be such a turn on?.....

These last 2 years have had some High Highs.....and some Low Lows....but it wouldn't be as rewarding if it didn't now would it?

I'm excited to see how the next 2 years go.....or grow......I'm hoping that somewhere in there comes potty training, preschool, solid foods....and a real vacation.....

and you sure as heck know....I'll be writing about it.....

Stay Little

2010-08-31T06:28:00.002-04:00

Buggie,

This week marks the 8th week of your little life, and it's so extremely hard for mommy to think that 8 weeks have already flown by. Just in these lasts two months, I've seen how much you've changed, and grown, and are turning into your very own little person.

and by the way, did anyone ever tell you it's so not cool for you to already be able to scoot across your bedroom floor at 8 weeks? Oh, you didn't get that memo? Well, it's not....you need to stay little....

for a little while longer....or a lot while longer. Or until I'm finally ready for you to get big.

I look at your older brother, and am completely in shock at the fact that two years have passed already....he obviously didn't get the memo either....

Buggie, Mommy is trying really hard to savor every moment, and store them away for when you are 6 feet 2 and you would much rather snuggle with your girlfriend, than your mama.

I adore you my precious one...I love your chubby legs, and your soft skin....and that little kissey spot on the back of your neck....I love to hear you make that sigh of contentment, when you are full, and could spend hours watching you sleep....

and I do love to see you growing and changing, and just now starting to discover your new world....

but just for a little while longer.....could you just stay little?

its in the memo....thanks

your

mama

Giveaway: Boon's Grass Countertop Drying Rack (closed)

2010-08-27T06:00:00.005-04:00

There are things that I conviently have forgotten about since the toddler transitioned from bottles to sippy cups....things, that I suddenly am remembering now that I am washing, drying and sterilizing baby bottles again....

what a pain in the tush it can be....

The Husband and I are big on the Dr. Brown's Bottles....which I love, except for trying to wash and dry all those parts that come with them....when Noah was a baby, I did the towel on the counter bit, which not only looked kind of tacky when having people over, but it also ended up taking up counter space that I could be using to mess more dishes up with....plus, inevitably the towel gets wet, and gross...and I think you get my drift.

Oh, how I love progress. Some Genius over at Boon Inc., must have heard the plight of millions of moms who were tired of the towel dry method with their bottles....and came up with...

insert angelic singing here...

The Boon Grass Countertop Drying Rack. It is the answer to my bottle washing prayers. Modern and Stylish, the grass doesn't take up tons of counterspace, and is designed to accomodate not only all those crazy Dr. Brown Bottle parts, but also allows me to stick Toddler Spoons, sippy cup lids and even pacifiers on it's sassy green blades.

The design is fantastic. The two part system allows water to drain into the bottom tray so that the utensils have the ability to air dry completely. No sitting on damp towels, and keeps countertops clean and dry.

The Grass Countertop Drying Rack is BPA, PVC and Phthalate Free which makes it baby and environmentally friendly, and it is super easy to clean, with both parts dishwasher safe.

Fashionable and Functional, I've been so pleased with using my Grass Drying Rack, that I'm putting it at the top of my list of gifts to give for expecting mommies.

WIN IT

I'm super excited to giveaway to one reader their very own

Grass Countertop Drying Rack

Mandatory Entry

Go to Boon Inc's Website and tell me at least

one other product you think you would LOVE!

(Please make sure you leave a valid email address)

Extra Entries

1. Follow Boon on Facebook

2. Follow Project Mommyhood on Facebook

3. Follow Boon on Twitter

4. Follow Project Mommyhood on Twitter

5. Tweet This: Win it! @BoonInc and @prjctmommyhood are giving away a modern Grass Countertop Drying Rack! Enter now! http://bit.ly/bIMaCo

5. Follow the Boon Inc. Blog

6. Vote for Project Mommyhood at Top Baby Blogs

(Button on Sidebar)

Contest Runs until 11:59 PST on Sept 10th.

Winner has 48 hours to respond with Info before new winner is chosen

The Kiddie-Piller and the Toddler

2010-08-25T07:00:00.002-04:00

Losing my $10 and the last pack of my Strawberry Bubble Yum, on the dare of how long it would take the kids to have a melt down on our 10 hour drive to Ohio, was totally worth seeing the utter joy in my sons face as he felt the wind in his short blond locks, and the adrenaline rush of flying around on the "Kiddie-piller".....

and snapping the facial expression of the little guy sitting in front of him....priceless....

Watching Noah experience the amazing feeling of being whipped and jostled around at 60 mph..."Kiddie-piller" speed for the first time, made my mushy mommy heart swell with pride.

Watching my little 34 inch peanut standing in line, his little hand holding that of his cousins....I had to admit, I was worried of how he would do...

Would he be scared?

Can they stop the ride if he gets too freaked out?

Am I big enough to tackle the tough as nails looking guy in charge of the thing if he wouldn't stop the ride?

Would my peanut be traumatized for the rest of his life? Having anxiety attacks at the mere thought of a roller coaster?

I stood with my hands on the camera, and my eyes on the cars as they made the first slow...

in retrospect...very small.....

climb....before turning and making the first

and only

"Kiddie-Piller" sized drop......

as soon as his car came whipping around the bend in front of me, I knew I had NOTHING to be nervous about. The absolute joy and excitement he had on his face was something I will never forget, even if I hadn't taken the 600 pictures of the 5 Times he had to ride the "Kiddie-piller" that day....

The Sweet Life

2010-08-23T16:11:00.004-04:00

A picture is worth a thousand words, and I've decided that this picture truly expresses how my last week went....in a way NO words could accurately describe......

I can never get enough of our trips to Ohio and I think I can honestly say I might even take playing in corn fields, stuffing my face with Texas Tenderloins and drowning myself in Lemonade Shakeups over lying on a white sand beach somewhere drinking Mai Tai's and getting a sunburn....

I am not ashamed to admit that I am so very lucky....not only am I blessed with my super sexy, generous and loving Hubs, but he brought with him, his lovely, wonderful, amazing, funny....did I say amazing family. I could not have dreamt up a better family (besides my own) to have my children be a part of....

and spending 5 days with them, always makes me want kiss city/suburban life goodbye forever....and fall in love with living the country life.....

and this time was no exception...

This last week has, as usual been a fabulous, fantastic and utterly exhausting vacation, full of my three favorite F words....Family, Food and Fair.....I've laughed until I've cried, gained about 5 lbs, and lost $10 and my bubble yum on a dare. I've stepped in pig poo, cow poo and I think something else I think might be some sort of poo.....

and even though I'm so very happy to be home where I can sleep in my own bed....

and oh, how I missed decent water pressure.....

There is something to be said about well water that leaves your hair so soft, towns where everyone is on a first name basis, and summer nights where all you hear are the crickets and the occasional lowing of a cow..

There was always a free shoulder for Ryan to lay his head on, a free hand for Noah to hold, and someone to share a good laugh or my funnel cake with.......

finding the last bit of powdered sugar on my shirt this afternoon as I am unpacking, is just another reminder of how I devoured this entire last week, and HOW sweet enjoying your family can really be.

...to be continued...

Project Mommyhood Pick: Wren Willow

2010-08-20T06:00:00.000-04:00

Want your toddler to be the coolest kid at the playground, or your baby to be the talk of mommy group? All you need is to check out Wren Willow and their amazing line of original hand drawn and dyed Tees' for babies, kids, adults and even for your fave pooch.

All of Wren Willow's funky items are drawn, dyed and screen printed by the owner/designer who is inspired by her daughter and the shop's namesake. Wren Willow uses water based Eco Friendly dyes and they try to use organic tees whenever possible.

Find Wren Willow at their Etsy shop!

Also Find them on Twitter and Facebook

Hittin The Road

2010-08-18T02:00:00.000-04:00

As I write this....It is WAY too early in the morning, and I'm trying to multi task by blogging and combing the rats nest out of my hair, while slurping down my LARGE sized Dunkin Donuts Iced Coffee...

Extra Cream and Sugar....

It is time for the FAM to hit the road....burn rubber...and doing whatever else people do when driving at 2:00 AM....when in my opinion, no self respecting person should be awake.

I think the idea of the early departure...is the hope that the chit-lins will be sawing logs during the majority of the drive.....

I'm taking bets though on how quickly the first melt down will happen.....

The pot is up to $10.....and my last pack of strawberry bubble yum

Aside from the drive that will test the limits of my sanity....the trip is going to be one amazing time.

We're taking ourselves out of the city....and planting us smack dab in the heart of midwestern farm country.....a place where this Oklahoma Born....and Small Town Colorado raised girl can get back to her roots....

There will be County Fairs, Corn fields....cow poo....and my all time fave....the Demo Derby....

If I survive the drive back in one piece...I'm sure I will have Many Stories...and Tons of pictures to share....

and maybe even $10 bucks and a pack of strawberry bubble yum richer!

Monday...And Mary Poppins

2010-08-15T16:58:00.011-04:00

It will be 36 hours until my husband unceremoniously pokes me in the side to get me up and at 'em for our fabulous trip to Ohio....

To say I am not a morning person, would be putting it lightly...I may be much more agreeable to the early departure time, if he lovingly leaves a large Dunkin Donuts Iced Coffee and a bagel with cream cheese by the bed......

Today, we had our introductory visit from the Pet Sitter, who will be taking care of our Three Furry Children, while we are away. This is the first time that we've chosen a pet sitter, over boarding the furry ones at a kennel....and at first I was a little worried about how this might work out....

I've decided it was the Mary Poppins of Dog Sitters, that was standing on my front stoop today....and I couldn't be happier....she had all three eating out of her hand...and I have a strange feeling that they will end up being better for her, then they EVER are for us....

makes me wonder if she watches kids too.....

Now, that I've checked that off the list, I now need to actually start packing....but as usual, my self diagnosed condition of procrastination has flared up....and I've spent the majority of the afternoon....on the front lawn,.....enjoying the breeze ....and playing....

because Playing is SO much more fun than Packing.....

Makes me wonder if Mary Poppins does packing too?

Letting Go...and Whipping it Out.....

2010-08-12T07:00:00.003-04:00

I know what you are thinking, because I have had the very same thought a time or two.

"You have a 2 year old. Didn't you Whip that puppy out in Public with him?"

My answer to that question is once....

kind of....

in a very awkward....for both of us kind of way....

The traumatizing experience happend on a train ride from South Jersey to NYC.....I had the fabulous idea to feed Noah right before we drove to the station, in the HOPES that he wouldn't be hungry in the short hour ride up to the city....

Yeah, HE totally wasn't picking up, what I was throwin down.....if you get my drift....

I think we made it a whole 15 minutes before the little ham-hock was letting the entire train know that he was STARVING.....

That led to one majorly awkward moment of trying to get him to latch,

2 Strange voyeuristic type neighbors,

and by the end of it a super sassy tee-shirt with a very large, strategic leak spot...right on the front.....

I told myself. NEVER. AGAIN.....

I spent the next 7 months, feeding at home, taking smaller trips, pumping and storing.....all to avoid whipping out the boob in any kind of public setting. It was my inexperience, at being a mother I think in general, that allowed me to feel Exposed, vulnerable...and even a little embarrassed at the idea of breast feeding in public.

Fast Forward 2 years later.....

I'm older.....

Somewhat Wiser.....

and I think when I get right down to it.....

I Just don't give two hoots...

Check it....

Time: 2:30 in the Afternoon

Place: Playdate at the Park....

The time had come to either continue on the path I had been on, and bring out the bottle I had made sure to bring on our outing, or it was time to put on my big girl panties, throw caution to the wind...and do what millions of other mommies are fearlessly doing.....

All I can say is,

My Second attempt at Public Breast Feeding, went MUCH better than the first.....

a) I had My super Snazzy...uber chic Hooter Hider.....to keep those peeping Toms at bay....

b) and probably most importantly, I was more Relaxed. I think since I wasn't getting all flumoxed at the idea of maybe a nip slip here or there.....Wee Man wasn't either....

Plus, by attempting public breastfeeding in a location FULL of other moms, who most likely are or have been in the same situation.....no one gave a second thought to the mom on the bench with the uber-chic hooter hider...

I told The Hubs, that now I feel amazingly free, even more comfortable in my woman-ness....

He later filled me in that he became just a little worried that feeling all this womanly freedom, I would next tell him that I wanted to stop shaving all together and move the family into a tee-pee....

Yeah, not so much.....

Will I make public Breast feeding a common occurance.....I'm not sure...We'll take it one day

and one Boob at a time.....

The Passing of the Manly Torch

2010-08-11T06:58:00.002-04:00

A Day in the Life...

2010-08-10T07:00:00.002-04:00

Of my little Fashion Models....

This is how our Photo Shoot went.....

If you live, or have ever lived in the mountains, you will completely understand this analogy....

Our photoshoot was like the weather in Colorado.....it changes on a dime......

but always ends up beautiful.....

Beautiful Creatures CD { Review and Giveaway}

2010-08-06T07:00:00.000-04:00

As a mom of a toddler....I'm learning that to find music that we both don't mind listening to in the car can be...shall we say somewhat of a challenge. I'm not really one that enjoys listening to the cute, but somewhat tone deaf Elmo belt out Tony Bennett Tunes.....and I'm also not the type of mom that wants my son to recite the words to Bad Romance.......

Where does that leave me? Besides resorting to subjecting my children to my own very bad singing....I'm blessed to have found a fun, kid friendly but mom approved album called Beautiful Creatures.

Beautiful Creatures was formed in South Africa in 2004, to help fill a need for fun and educational childrens music that was also "parent friendly" Since it's inception, Beautiful Creatures has become a HUGE household name in South Africa with CD's, clothing, toys and a TV show in the works....now they have crossed the pond and American Parents are seeing what has made it such a major hit back at home.....

Noah was a sucker for the catchy beats...and would routinely find him trying out some new dance move to "Imvubu The Happiest Hippo".....I not only find the tunes catchy, but I also am found of the global and enviromental messages that the songs are about.....

I was super excited to see that Beautiful Creatures is Available on iTunes, so I was able to download the album to the iPod. Now we can jam out to "Lorenzo the Luckiest Lizard" while on our daily walks....

Check Beautiful Creatures out for yourself on iTunes or their Website. They are also available on Facebook and Twitter.

WIN IT

One Lucky Winner will Receive a Copy of the Beautiful Creatures CD!

TO ENTER:

Leave a Comment With Why You Would Want the CD

You must leave an Email Address unless it is available on your public profile

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Fan Beautiful Creatures on Facebook

2. Fan Beautiful Creatures on Twitter

3. Fan Project Mommyhood on Twitter

4. Tweet Giveaway (2 Entries)

5. Fan Project Mommyhood on Facebook (2 Entries)

6. VOTE for Project Mommyhood on Top Baby Blogs (Button on Sidebar)

Giveaway runs until August 16th @ 11:59 PST

Open to All US and Interntional Residents

Winner has 48 Hours to Reply before new winner is chosen!

I'm Invited To The BlogHer Pity Party....

2010-08-05T08:42:00.003-04:00

I really feel I have been doing a good job of not turning a very attractive shade of green, over the fact that I am not attending BlogHer this year.....especially over the fact that had I attended....it would only cost me a whopping $14.50 in train fair to get my sassy tuckus up to the Big Apple to party with my fellow bloggy-istas.....I know I know.....

I really didn't feel like coming home after an amazing weekend of Bloggy Goodness....to find myself in the midst of divorce....as I'm not sure the Hubster is quite ready to tackle the challenge of a toddler and a newborn alone yet.....The men, just aren't as tough as we women folk are.....

So instead of doing the BlogHer thing this year....I'm having even more fun being a part of the the Blogher'10 Pity Party sponsored by Tina at Life Without Pink and Lori at Mommyfriend!!!

Here are the Top 5 Reasons I so WISH I was at Blogher'10:

1. Getting to Feel like I've made the Big Time by holding that Blogher' Ticket

2. Spending a Childless weekend in the City that Never Sleeps (though I probably would)

3. Meeting the women behind the reason my husband has to talk to the back of my head...

4. The Opportunity to Get my name and Blog Brand out there!!!

5. The New Wardrobe.....I mean....seriously.......a MUST!

Here are the 5 Reasons I tell Myself....Blogher...who needs it!

1. Having that same feeling as I did my freshman year of highschool

2. Having to leave a party early to go pump

3. Husband calling every hour because he doesn't know where the baby Tylenol is

4. Meeting one of my Fave Bloggers....and then calling her by another bloggers name

5. Calling the husband every hour because I'm worried about why the kids need baby Tylenol.

Soooooo.....As other amazing Bloggy Mamas are having an AMAZING time...schmoozing it up, letting their hair down, and partying like it's 1999 (cuz that's when most of us were wild and crazy....and I KNOW there's gonna be a beer bong....or foam party there somewhere)

I secretly know they are green with envy at my watching Phineas and Pferb in my pjs.....folding my 5th load of laundry....and fishing bath toys out of the toilet.....

It's all about the Mustache.....

2010-08-04T07:00:00.006-04:00

So yesterday, while wee man and I were having some personal time aka "Boob time"....he let me in on a little secret....that secretly, he wants to be like this guy.....

and I don't blame him....the perfectly tousled coif...the piercing blue eyes, the dimples you can lose your Tic Tac in.....and he can rock the 80's jeans and Hawaiian shirt like nobody's bizness....

Now, I totally didn't think too much of wee-man's admission, until I checked on him after his afternoon nap.....and found him....like this....

I think he totally pulled it off don't you? Nothing says Cooler than Cool than a Killer Mustachio. Makes a guy feel like he can take on the world....even if it's just his little part of it....

I will totally be Higgins to his Magnum P.I......

then again....I do tend to think looks more like Sherlock Holmes rather than Sexy Tommy Selleck.....but I won't burst his bubble....

He is so stinking cool, that he has even inspired his very own line of "Baby Mustachio" onesies.

Available now at Noah Baby Boutique.

Now, if wearing stylin Mustache couture isn't enough,
How about rocking your own Snazzy Stache, that also happens to taste muy delicioso....

Check out this super cute Chocolate Mustache Lollipop tutorial from VO Knits....

or this super yummy and funk-i-licious Apple Mustache Lollipop Tutorial

from A Beautiful Mess.....talk about being THE coolest kid in the neighborhood!!!

All this Mustache Talks....almost makes me wish I was a man...almost....

because a stache just isn't as cool on us ladies.......

But what is cool? Being a Top Baby Blog!!!

Help me reach my goal of being in the top 10 by voting for me!!!

(just click that handy button below...or the sassy button on my sidebar)

Farm Fresh Babies.....

2010-08-02T08:04:00.002-04:00

What has to be one of THE best parts of summertime here in New Jersey? The AMAZING local Weekend farmers markets....

Nothing is better than hitting the pavement on a hot Saturday Morning, Iced Dunkin Coffee in hand....checking out all the fabulous edible delights our local farmers, bakers and cheesemongers have in store for us! Now I totally realize that it is probably a sacrilige to have a Dunkin Donut Coffee at such an event....next time I'll make sure to hide it with a uber chic cozee from etsy....

Not only do the sights and smells make my Wanna Be a Food Network Star .....heart skip a beat....but I also hope that it may help Mr. Picky Pants get more into the spirit of eating fruits and vegetables.....most likely wishful thinking on my part....

Now if getting out of the house for a morning, and allowing your five senses to have stimulation overload wasn't enough "Good Stuff".....then getting a better deal....on better produce.....in a WAY better atmosphere should seal the deal for anyone stuck in that which is the grocery store produce section....

To put it this way: If I can become a farmer's market junkie....then it is so not for just Foodies or Health Nuts anymore.....

Oh My Birth Announcements....

2010-07-30T12:14:00.004-04:00

Who knew that picking out the PERFECT birth announcement could be such a monumental decision....I think that it can almost be considered harder than picking out wedding invitations, choosing your next president or the ever important....bangs or no bangs dilemma.....(my vote is for no bangs...)

So, since indecisiveness is my new middle name....next to Queen post pregnancy hormones, Miss caffine-aholic...and Senorita leaky boobs.....I am asking for your help... with the announcements...not the leaky boobs...though I'm sure that will be the topic of a poll question at a later date...

Here are my Top 4 Baby Announcement Choices......I'm putting the Poll at the bottom.....Let me know which one you think is the Coolest...Trendiest....hey, you'd like this on your fridge one out of the bunch......

You have no idea how much I and my leaky boobs appreciate this.....

Choice A:

Choice B:

Choice C:

Choice D:

Brothers....

2010-07-28T07:00:00.002-04:00

Nursery Sneak Peek...

2010-07-26T07:00:00.006-04:00

Meet Ralph! He belonged to the Hubster when he was a wee tot!

Poor Ryan...Here he is just celebrating his 2 week Birthday, and I STILL haven't gotten his nursery finished. It's getting there....If you checked out my previous post on those super adorable Birth Date Prints from Almost Sunday Designs, you know that I am working on it....

It is turning out to be one FABULOUSLY Baby Chic Nursery though....and done on one heck of a tight budget no less....Who knew the hubster and I could be Thrifty, Crafty and Design Savvy at the same time....To date we have spent a total of $175 on The Bugster's Super Hip Baby Pad.

Using Craigslist finds, like the amazing vintage dresser we scored for $50...(just needed a good sanding, paint and new hardware) and using pieces from our own childhoods....which were a) FREE and b) helped our parents declutter their attics and garages.....really allowed us to spend our money on other important items...like the Super Sweet Double stroller that I fell in love with.

Here is a sneak peek of how it's going.......The goal is, that once The Hubs comes home this week, we can knock this puppy out, and maybe, just Maybe it will be COOL enough to send to one of my guilty pleasures: Project Nursery. Wouldn't that just be the shiz-nit!

Ryan's Great Grandfather made these adorable toy cars

I LUV this adorable bedding and crib! A HUGE thank you again to Operation Homefront for donating all of it for us!

Fabulous Photo Designed on Picnik and Printed on Snapfish! With Frame cost a whopping $15

Adore this dresser. $50 on Craigslist, A new coat of paint, some funky hardware and Voila!!!

Project Mommyhood Pick: Adorable Birth Date Print

2010-07-24T07:00:00.000-04:00

All I can say is, absolutely ADORABLE. When I saw this totally unique and special Birthdate Print from Almost Sunday Designs, I HAD to have one of my own. Actually, I had to have 2....one for both my boys.

These Fabulous Prints would make an unbelievable Shower gift....or mark your own lil one's special day by placing it on your nursery wall. Each print is completely customized to your liking...down to your specific color choices, making it a totally one of a kind piece.

Price runs $20 for an 8 x 10 print or $26 for an 11 x 14 inch print.

Check out Almost Sunday's other amazing original wall art, mobiles and paper goods.

OMG....I'm not sure I'm ready!

2010-07-22T13:38:00.000-04:00

I'm not ready....

I'm not prepared...

It can't be time yet....

Time for Daddy to head back to flying the wild blue yonder.....and me to finally get enough gumption to do this parenting thing of two kids....Gulp ...By Myself!!!

So, logically, I TOTALLY understand that it is physically, and mentally possible to handle a toddler and a newborn.....with only the three dogs as my backup. However, I'm so, and I mean SO not ready fledge...I like having my co-parent here to help tackle a child, change a diaper, fix a meal, and allow me the occasional nap....

Do you think the United States Air Force would listen to a new mommy's unattractive whining, and maybe an foot stomp and pouty lip for extra effect? Yeah, I didn't think so either. In their minds, national security tends to oveshadow my personal apprehension on parenting issues....drat....

Today....is our first day of Project Solo Parent...and as of 1:00, we've done I would say pretty well. I'm trying to take the day in 30 minute incriments.....I've allowed myself to win the SO NOT PARENT of the YEAR award by letting my son do nothing but watch movies, eat chocolate pudding....and hang out in a diaper......

I'm allowing ALL housework to cease until further notice...which hopefully will be tomorrow, when I feel a little more confident in my skills.......

I've only experienced 1 moment of a slight panic attack.....when I had 2 crying children, who both wanted breakfast at the EXACT same time....and unfortunately duct taping the baby to my boob, just was not an option. I had to make the not so pleasant, executive decision to let one of them cry it out....test one....passed (It wasn't what I would call pretty, but we made it through)

I woke up this morning, after 4 1/2 hours of sleep, reminding myself that millions of other parent have been and ARE able to do this parenting of multiple children thing....then I remembered in the hospital, I also tried to remind myself that millions of women also gave birth without having the joys of an epidural.....3 epidurals later, I told myself they were freaking crazy....

HOWEVER,

As much as I HATE to admit it...this baptism by fire....of being truly a Solo parent for 5 days, while hubby is flying overseas......will probably be the absolute BEST thing for me....kind of like trying to learn to swim...and your dad just throws you in.....or jumping out of a plane for the first time....It's about overcoming fears.....and sometimes, you just have to hit it head on, without a security net, though I do hope I have a parachute....

Come Monday....We'll see if I've survived this parenting boot camp...

The Quest for Meow Meow

2010-07-21T07:00:00.000-04:00

Does the title have you going there?

Let's just say, that one boy's Meow Meow...is another boy's woobie, Lovie, Blankie, foo-fie or George....for us...it's meow meow....the uber loved....uber important...all consuming blue blanket with the lion head stuck to the top....

It must travel with us at all times...dine with us, play with us in the sandbox...and even at times suddenly and without warning, end up in the bath with us. It must never be cleaned (heaven forbid) and it must taste test all food before the toddler does...to make sure it is palatable of course.

I've always heard that as a parent, it is SUPER important to procure a second, identical, favorite lovey, just in case the first one ends up missing, or taking an extended cruise of the bahamas with other loveys.....fabulous idea....however at the time your child is born, you have NO idea what soft thing they will become attached too.

OUR particular Meow Meow of choice, became discontinued by target about a year ago.....who what have thought right?......So low and behold.....the other day when suddenly Meow Meow could not be found....The World was ending, 2012 came 2 years early, and I'm sure that Noah was thinking one of the dogs had eaten his favorite friend. Oh the agony.....24 hours later, Meow Meow was found, IN his potty chair....(luckily we haven't really begun potty training yet)

Those CRAZY, INSANE....Mama needs a drink....48 hours got me on an internet quest to find a 2nd Meow Meow....to help curtail, or eliminate any possible Meow Meow losings in the future. The Quest was long....and arduous, and finally led me to EBAY, where the ONLY 2 Identical Meow Meows I could find were going selling for almost $40 a piece.....I think we paid all of $10 for the first one....My College Econ Teacher was so right.......that stinking law of Supply and Demand.....

I have to say, Daddy and I really debated on if we were out of our MINDS to even consider paying that much for a woobie with a head on it.....and then, we remembered the past 48 hours, and quickly put in our bid.....

I am beginning to realize......that when it comes to certain things (like sanity) and our children.....price really isn't an issue......

Amy Adele - A Very Special Giveaway { CLOSED }

2010-07-19T07:00:00.005-04:00

I like to think that this giveaway is in honor of Baby Ryan!

It started out with wanting something special to send as a thank you to all those amazing friends and family who were sending gifts for the new baby to be....

and ended with me being now totally hooked on Amy Adele....

Needing a special Baby shower gift? Wanting to create a unique and special invite for your Child's Birthday party? How about wanting something functional and durable to label your child's toys with?

Amy Adele has the COOLEST and probably one of the most unique companies out there for everything from stationary and invitations, to personalized calling cards, labels and clothing. All designed by the uber talented Amy Adele.

I was extremely honored to have Amy Adele send Noah a set of 30 custom waterproof labels, to help us keep track of anything he takes out of the house...I can't tell you how handy they've been at the beach, helping us NOT lose his shovels and pails....

Ryan too got something special from Amy Adele, they sent him a fabulous set of Personalized Cards, which we've used as our thank you notes for all the amazing Baby gifts we've received.

Not only are Amy's products unique, custom and quality, but also they are also a green company, with ALL paper products produced on 100% post consumer recycled paper.

WIN IT

Amy Adele is Generously giving to one LUCKY winner $25 worth of Amy Adele Product!

To Enter

Head over to Amy Adele, and then tell me what you'd spend your $25 on!!!

Must Leave valid Email Address with comment or have email listed in profile

EXTRA Entries

1. Follow Project Mommyhood Publicly

2. Follow Project Mommyhood on Twitter and Tweet This Giveaway!

3. "LIKE" Project Mommyhood on Facebook

4. Grab the Project Mommyhood Button!!

5. Vote for Us on Top Baby Blogs

Contest will run until July 31st at 11:59 PST

Winner will be chosen by Random.org and has 48 hours to reply to winning email before new winner is chosen!

Open to US and Canada Residents only

Winners, Must Reads....and Fat Baby Cheeks

2010-07-16T07:00:00.002-04:00

First off....Can I say I LOVE...just how many entered to win one of my FAVE items for Summer

The Triple Bottle Lunch Bag from SKIP HOP!!!

I won't go to the park/Beach or Zoo without it!

The winner has been chosen with Random.org

and the winner is

MANEY

Congratulations!

ALSO!!!

I have found some new blogs that I ABSOLUTELY adore!!!

YOU HAVE to Check out These MUST READS

Laundry Hurts My Feelings

The Mama Dramalogues

Smart and Trendy Moms

The Crazy Baby Mama

Not Quite Supermom

and of course......The Buggie....

I just want to kiss these cheeks all day......

This is the Story....Of a Baby

2010-07-15T10:12:00.004-04:00

Who is so well and truly loved....

I cannot believe that today marks the little guy's First Week Birthday.....Already the time is flying by....and I'm trying really hard, between sleep deprived nites....and busy days with a toddler to soak it all in....

Ryan is such an amazing baby....I feel so blessed that he is turning out to be as easy (if not easier) than his brother was.....He's a fabulous sleeper, veracious eater....and a world champ pooper to be sure....

I can't seem to get enough of the smell of his baby skin....or how soft the hair on the back of his head is. It's so crazy to me, that even though Noah is only 2 years old, I've found I've forgotten what he was like in that first week...maybe it was due to living off 4 hours of sleep a night....but, It's nice to be with Ryan, and suddenly have a Deja vu moment...and feel like I can relive those moments I had with Noah....

The Day of Ryan's Birth, ended up being an Extra Special, and in the end, a bittersweet day. Ryan entered the world at 2:53 PM, and his Great Grandfather (Hubby's Grandfather) passed away four hours later, at the grand old age of 92. It's hard not to think of how amazing, and unique that is, and how Ryan was able to help take away some of the sadness that we all are feeling at the loss of a wonderful man.

So to give a short rundown of the weeks events....

8 hours of labor

3 (yes 3) epidural attempts

7 Minutes of Pushing

2 nights in Hospital Hotel

3 Wake Up Calls per night

3 (depending on how many visitors we get) outfit changes per day

6 Daily phone calls from Grand parents

1 Devoted, and Loving older Brother

and 2 Very tired...but very happy Parents.....

Our fabulous new family of 4....

Baby Love!

2010-07-13T07:00:00.000-04:00

I am well and truly in LOVE.....all over again!

I'd like to introduce to you ...

Ryan Thomas

Who graced us with his birth this last Thursday, July 8th!

The cravings for Chocolate Croissants did a baby good, as he weighed in at 8 lbs 6 ozs

and is 21 1/2 inches long!

The Story of his birth is an amazing tale...one which I will update to you very soon once I get reacclimated to little sleep...and coffee.....

I will say, I went into the hospital a little nervous if I would be able to feel that instant LOVE, that I felt with Noah, but came out feeling like I actually love both of them even more than I ever thought possible!

The Time Has Come.....

2010-07-06T13:14:00.004-04:00

YEAH!

Just in time too....as I was seriously beginning to think I was going to have my own zipcode.....

Had my 39 week apointment today, and am thrilled that I am going to be going in tomorrow night to be induced....

We will be welcoming our sweet bugster sometime on Thursday, and I couldn't be more thrilled. Of course, now I realize how much I still have not done....and you would think with this being my second go round, I'd be a little ahead of the game.....

Still need to pack my bag, get the bassinet ready, finish any last minute nesting duties...
shave my legs one last time....
maybe even get a pre-labor pedicure.....

So the next time you hear from me, we will be a happy, healthy family of 4.......

Showered with Love!

2010-07-02T07:00:00.002-04:00

Sunday, June 27th was a truly a wonderful day to Celebrate!

I am so very blessed to have amazing friends who showered Daddy, Noah, Buggie and Me with so much love!

It truly was an amazing Summer Shower!

A True Family Affair with Husbands and Kids invited to join in the festivites

There were Hamburgers out on the grill....and Kids running in the sprinkler.....

It was exactly how I wanted to celebrate the upcomong arrival of our Buggie!

I want to THANK everyone who came....and even those who couldn't be here....sent beautiful well wishes....

Our newest little guy was truly spoiled in both gifts and with friends.....

My Hostesses had me change halfway through the party into this ensemble....

The shirt reads

"It's all fun and games until someone gets pregnant"

Sunny With a Chance of Meltdown!

2010-06-30T08:03:00.005-04:00

Summertime....and the livin is EASY.....

There are many things that I LOVE about my transition from a career woman...to a stay at home mommy....being able to go to the lake on a Tuesday Morning....is definitely high up there on the list. While throngs of commuters were hitting the roads into the city for another day of being cooped up in an airconditoned office, Noah and I were headed the opposite way, where fun and relaxation awaited....Just being able to enjoy the beautiful Summer weather...with my favorite 2 year old makes giving up the nice paycheck...and snazzy wardrobe.....totally worthwhile....

The great thing about our first lake trip of the summer? a) because it's a lake, I was not confused with a beached whale.....and b) a 2 year old is much more engaged in beachy activities than a 1 year old was last year....ie. sand was not considered an edible substance this year....

The only hitch on our fabulous day out at the lake? Someone did NOT want to get his picture taken next to his girlfriend.....so much for that fabulous artistic shot.....models can be so demanding......and moody.....

Next time......He'll be ready for his closeup!

Summertime,
And the livin' is easy
Fish are jumpin'
And the cotton is high

Your daddy's rich
And your mamma's good lookin'
So hush little baby
Don't you cry

Skip Hop { Review & Giveaway }

2010-06-28T07:00:00.008-04:00

Shopping with a 2 year old.....could be considered the definition of insanity.....

Looking for the perfect item to keep this 2 year old's sippy cups and juice cold while at the beach/zoo/park or pool....I sometimes think the search for the holy grail would be a little easier.....

When one site can take away the insanity of trying to shop with a toddler....and provide me with the best products on the market....the sun is shining a bit brighter....and mommy can spend more time....at the zoo/beach/pool or park.....

I've been a fan of CSN stores for awhile now...and have recently been introduced to probably my fave store of theirs EVER, BabyCribsPlus.com. If you are looking to furnish a nursery, find that perfect baby gift, or locate the Holy Grail of insulated Bottle holders....you HAVE to check this site out!

BabyCribsPlus.com was gracious enough to allow me to try out the Triple Bottle Lunch Bag from Skip Hop. I adore Skip Hop...as my go to diaper bag is their Duo Deluxe Bag, and my love for them continues once I tried out the Triple Bottle Lunch Bag.

This bag is cool enough that the hubby doesn't mind carrying it....has these great adjustable straps that can turn the bag from a shoulder bag to backpack in a snap. It is extremely durable and super easy to clean...especially after our last trip, which resulted in an "icecream incident of mass proportions"

The best part of the whole thing? It keeps his beverages cold.....Flipping Crazy! No more warm juice boxes....or yucky hot milk.....ewwww....

The Size is perfect as it's large enough to carry an entire Toddler approved lunch, plus my water bottle.....but is small enough that I can fit it across my Big Belly and not feel like I'm carrying a big bag.

WIN IT!!!

BabyCribsPlus.com is Giving to one lucky winner MY FAVE new product...the Triple Bottle Lunch Bag from Skip Hop!

*In Light Blue, Black or Red*

How awesome are they?

To Enter:

Mandatory Entry: Visit BabyCribsPlus.com and look around. Come back and tell me which Item you would LOVE to have!

Extra Entries:

1. Follow Project Mommyhood Publicly

2. Grab The Project Mommyhood Button

3. Follow Prjctmommyhood on Twitter

4. Follow Project Mommyhood on Facebook

5. Vote for Me on Top Baby Blogs (Button top Sidebar)

Contest Ends on July 14th at 11:59 PM PST

Open to US and Canadian Residents!

Winner Must provide Valid Email address with entry unless posted in profile.

Winner has 48 hours to reply with address before new winner is chosen.

Mr Independent OR Letting Go To Early?

2010-06-24T09:43:00.001-04:00

Growing up, my mother always called me fearless.....saying I liked to go where Angels feared to tread....Growing up in a Ski Town in Colorado, there was never a shortage of hills to climb, runs to ski, jumps to take or woods to explore...and she was more than happy to let me spread my wings and be the adventurer I loved being...I think city living has turned me soft....I can't remember the last exploration I've done beyond trying to make my way through the throngs of other women at the last Nordstrom Shoe Sale....

Hearing how I independent I was as a child....It totally doesn't surprise me that Noah has fallen too far from this tree. From the moment he was walking on only 2 legs, he was off figuring out new things to do....ie: going mach 30 down the stairs on his tummy.....or figuring out that he can fit through the doggy door....thus figuring out he can go out into the fenced backyard anytime he wishes....

I've always thought my allowing him to be independent...and adventerous was not such a bad thing....but a fellow mommy at Chick-Fil-A recently made me wonder...am I letting him be TOO independent?

After a Five star meal of chicken nuggets and chocolate milk...Noah was having a killer time utilizing every inch of the Play structure.....granted....I totally realize that it is NOT designed for 2 year olds....but after the first time he made it all the way up....and all the way down...I realized he was so good to go.....

As I was sitting there Buddha Belly and all another mom came in with her toddler....where she promptly and consistently kept him contained to the toddler area....When she noticed Noah come flying down the slide she asked me

"How old is he?"

"He just turned 2"

"Oh, wow....my son is almost 3"

"That's great" I reply

"I don't think I'd have the guts to let my son up there by himself....seems dangerous"

Now I'm sure there are a billion and one ways to take that comment....I chose to take it as the "wow your brave to let your two year old do that.....are you nuts?" Well maybe not the nuts part...but I did take that she wasn't sure all my parental faculties were there.

I've had days to think about it, since the encounter.....and I've realized....it's okay.....I'm okay....Noah is DEFINITELY okay......It's not as if I'm sticking him in a boat...letting him sail the world by himself at 2.....I'm letting him spread his wings a little more everyday.....but Mama is still in control....So what if I let him take flying leaps of the couch, I make sure there are pillows on the floor...I guess I just want him to adventerous, and confident...just call him the Indiana Jones of the Toddler Set....okay, maybe not quite THAT adventerous....but you get the picture

and if he ever does get stuck in the play structure.....me and my big buddha belly will just have to go up and get him.....