Where Do You Run?

God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling. (Psalms 46:1-3 NKJV)

Little Bit is officially 13 months old now and I just can’t believe how fast time is going. Everyone constantly asks if we are going to have another, and I keep thinking Little Bit is such a baby…are you crazy?! She is so animated now and full of life and curiosity. She is an absolute joy to watch as she discovers new things and tries to keep us with her big sister. The thing that is just completely cracking me up now is when she gets scared of something…like the garage opening or closing or the dogs barking…she looks like one of the Flintstones. You know the part where they stay in place for a minute with their feet moving and the body stuck in place before they run off? It is the funniest thing. I have tried my hardest to catch it on film…but after the second time you start to feel guilty for startling her just for the sake of a video! So, I gave up on that one!

More importantly than what she looks like when she gets startled or scared…is where she goes when she is scared. She runs immediately with her arms lifted up in the air, grabs my legs, and waits for me to pick her up. It is the best feeling in the world for me. I snatch her up and she nuzzles into my neck with both arms around me. Little Bit knows that no matter what it is in the world, her mama will keep her safe. She is the same way when she is hurt. She runs to mama. I’m sure your little one does the same thing. Can you think of anything in the world that you wouldn’t try to protect her from?

Now, where does a mama go when they are scared or hurt? Where does a mama go when they need comfort? I know where I should go, but I have to admit that I often forget and don’t do it. Now, my feelings would probably be hurt if Little Bit didn’t come running to me. I wonder if God is the same way? Does his feelings get hurt when I do my little Flintstone run and head the opposite direction of His comforting arms? Probably. So, here I am again…again…learning that I can’t do it all. Imagine that!? I do have Someone to go to when I need comforting or encouragement. I just have to run that way.

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30 NKJV)

Mama Drama Rule #29: When you’re in need of encouragement, rest, comfort, or security, make sure you run the Right Way! God is waiting there with His arms open wide.

Coupon Update: There is a coupon class in McDonough, Georgia on (as of now, if there is enough interest) on September 19th. It is ten dollars & the class lasts for 2-3 hours, and from what I understand you leave with all kinds of goodies! Just being on this lady's email list has been great! She sends all kinds of neat "saving opportunities". If you are interested, please let me know ASAP!

A Snapshot of Perfection is Only That!

Don't you just love going into blogs, tv shows, and articles where you see these snapshots of peoples' lives? It exhibits the perfect family, the perfect moments, and the perfect way it should be. I find myself often saying, "I want a kitchen like that." (kitchens are a touchy subject right now in our house!). "I want my house organized like that." "I want to be a mama like that." I'm learning that life isn't really like that. Those are actually snapshots of that perfect moment...and there are actually perfect moments...just no perfect families, no perfect ways...life is just not that way! Our kids wear us down at times. Our house is in chaos at times. We get tired of being tired at times. Our husbands make us roll our eyes at times. Our to do lists overwhelm us at times. All in all, things can seem completely imperfect and we long for those perfect snapshots that we see.



I was just visiting one of my favorite blogs, Melissa Hester. She is one of my heroes and my version of a Christian/Martha Stuart/Paula Dean/supermom...did you get all of the slashes??? She is a combination of all that and more. As I was reading one of her comments that a reader had left, it really hurt my heart for that reader. She said something to the effect of...I wish I had a family like that. It's "flawless & perfect"...I "long for a life like that"...

Well, we all LONG for a life that is flawless and perfect, but that's not found in this earthly world of ours. Our "perfect" will be heaven. I believe that the author of this particular blog would even be one of the first people to tell you...life looks perfect in a snapshot. She works to add pieces of perfection to her world and the world of her kids by adding "loveliness" as she calls it, but it still isn't always perfect and how you plan for it to go. She shares with us ways to make it memorable and special...not perfect and flawless. I try to work toward the same goals. I often "steal" a lot of ideas that she shares and our lives are enriched because of it!

I think planning for perfection is the wrong route to go. The imperfections and flawlessness is what makes it even more special! Plan for a memory. Work out of love. Live for the moment rather than living for what you want. All of those wonderful cliche's work so well! When our friends and families and even some of us are being so effected by the economy and the sadness of the world, it is our opportunity to share some of our Christian love in whatever ways we can. If that is baking cookies, bake cookies. If that is sending a note, send a note. If that is being a mom with a positive heart, be positive. If it is being a supportive and smiling wife, smile and support! When you look at the snapshots of another families' "perfect" life or even "over the fence" at the neighbor's "perfect" life, remember you don't see it all...and their life is not perfect either...it's filled with as much mama drama as we have in our lives!

Mama Drama Rule #28: Remember, don't compare yourself to your neighbor. Their yard may only look better because they fertilize it with... a lot of...poop* (*I altered the last word, but feel free to add your own!) Focus on your own "yard" and work for it to be as wonderful and special as you can...not as perfect as you can!

Oh the Drama of Red Balloons on a Rainy Day

Friday was "B" day for LaLa at preschool. She was so excited that she had thought of taking balloons for her class for show & tell. She was just so animated and cute as she "practiced" her showing and her telling. We woke up Friday to an very wet day! When I woke up the girls, I told them it was a good sleepy day. I just wanted to climb back into bed and listen to the rain. It had rained all night, and the torrential downpour that morning didn't seem that it was ever going to let up. LaLa said, "balloons make everyone happy even on rainy days!"

We rushed off to preschool with the balloons in the back. Several times, she asked, "mama, are the balloons okay?" I'd assure her they were just fine. We make our way with several helium balloons, a backpack, and a three year old into the foyer of the school only to find that her red helium balloons were now dragging on the floor! LaLa exclaimed, "what happened to my balloons? they aren't floating anymore." Then, after thinking a minute, she said, "i guess they didn't like the rain and decided to go back to bed too! My friends will just have to get sleeping balloons on a rainy day."

The mama worry in me couldn't let it go. I thought the balloons may perk up once they dried off, but I didn't want her to have "sleeping" balloons for show and tell. So, off I went to Publix (which is very expensive where balloons are concerned) to buy another 8 balloons. This time they were just the green latex balloons, which I had the balloon lady put into two bags to ensure they would stay dry. The balloon lady told me that the helium will shrink when the balloons get cold, but they would expand when they warm back up. Now, I have had A LOT of schooling! AND, I do not remember anybody teaching me that in any of my schooling! It would have been very helpful on this rainy, wet, stressful day trying to make my three year old's show and tell on B day happy!

I arrived at the school, signed in, and proceeded to take the green FLOATING balloons to her classroom. It was during snack time. LaLa ran to me and threw her arms around my legs saying, "Mama, you brought me balloons that are awake! My heart is just so happy!" Well, that made my excursion on a wet and gloomy day very worth it...even the ridiculous amount of money I had spent on balloons! By the way, the red Mylar balloons were still "sleeping".

By the time I got home, I had forty five minutes before we had to load back up and go get LaLa. It was just one of those days! As Little Bit and I waited in the car pool, we start to see LaLa's little class coming out of the door under the awning on such a rainy day with two floating and "awake" balloons each. As soon as LaLa saw me she said, "mama, the balloons woke up. Now, we have two!" Oh well! At least there were happy children on a rainy day....even if this mama was exhausted and wondering how I possibly missed the helium lesson growing up!

Mama Drama Rule #27: Just accept that we, as mamas, will do the craziest things to ensure our children's happiness...even if in the long run, it didn't even matter in the first place!

Project: Cute Halloween Shirt

Hi, Friends, here's some more of my monogram madness...

Just wanted to post a shirt that I worked on last night. It has an applique with the three letters spelling out the word "BOO". These are appliqued using an embroidery machine so they won't peel like most appliques...they are actually appliqued to the shirt by the machine! The fabric for the applique is orange and black spiders with silly eyes...LaLa said, "these spiders are looking at me with their crazy eyes." Then, she proceeded to make similar crazy eyes. Silly girl! I tried it on her, and she said she needed a matching bow. She's definitely been trained right, huh?! Black shirts are hard to find so I was so excited to find long sleeve ones! I have white long sleeve shirts too!

I have several different Halloween fabrics...so if you have an idea, let me know!

Tell me the size and color you would like, and I'll search to see if I can find it! I'll have to check the availability of the sizes and colors! As long as I can continue to get such a great deal on these shirts, I can offer them at a low price to you! The long sleeve applique shirt is 15.00. I might can do short sleeve too if you'd prefer...just check with me. Add a monogram or name for free! I don't mind shipping/mailing, if you don't mind paying for it!:)

Another option is if you just want the applique, and YOU want to sew them on or iron them on with "stitch witch"(won't stand up as well as being embroidered on...the more you wash), but it will serve the purpose for some cute pictures and compliments for a few wears. I'll make you the applique "BOO" for 8 dollars.

As I get time, I will be adding lots of accessories as possibilities! I'm experimenting with embroidered bows, bows to match the appliqued shirt, etc. I'm also working on apple shirts for my girls for the apple orchard, a pumpkin shirt, some college football stuff, etc.... so I'll keep you posted on my projects!

If you are want to try to embroider it with your machine, I'll be glad to give you advice or directions on how to...

Now, I'm off to try to clean my house, wash my dogs, do laundry...I'd rather be playing with my projects!

My "to do" List is All WRONG!

I have to clean my house. Since school starting and all of the busy activities of life, it has definitely gone by the wayside. I have to get our desk organized…it’s a pile right now! I think there is a desk there somewhere. I have someone coming to give me cheap remodeling advice on my kitchen this evening (Keep your fingers crossed!) I need to organize my coupons especially the five other Sunday papers I got last night. I have a hundred projects I’m either in the middle of and can’t get finished or ones that I really want to start! I have two little girls that I need to take care of and give attention to. I have two little dogs vying for attention to…they really could use baths. The list goes on and on.

Now, I have A LOT to do today, and I got started rather early this morning. Then, I thought, I’m doing everything on my “to do” list but what I really need to be doing! Can you imagine not talking to your child or your best friend for the entire week? Even with my long list I am betting I will still talk to my girls today. I will probably talk to my mom or a friend or two on the phone. However, I have not actually sat down and spent time with God. Maybe this isn’t something you do regularly…it’s honestly one of the first things that seems to be forgotten in the busy day of this mama. I wouldn’t go days without talking to my best friend and taking time for God needs to be the same way. He has given me so much…two beautiful children and a comfortable home and good health and the list goes on, and I give Him so little in return. He has blessed me. He asks that we spend time with him…reading the Bible, praying to Him, and living like Him. If you’ve never spent time with Him, I really encourage you to try it a week. It makes a lot of a difference. This peace comes over you, and you will be able to tell when you aren’t making your relationship with God a priority. Try a devotional book…maybe even one for mamas if the Bible is overwhelming to you as you start!

Although there are so many things on our “to do” lists, I need to make sure I’m making my relationship with HIM a priority!

"God, who has called you into fellowship (AKA relationship) with His son Jesus Christ our Lord is faithful." - I Cor. 1:9

Mama Drama Rule #27: Just as we wouldn’t go days without talking to our children or our friend, God is our Father and our Friend. He doesn’t want us to go days without spending time with Him! And, He doesn’t want us to just come to Him when we have problems. Make sure your priorities are straight on your mama “to do” list.

An Extra Special Dinner! A Wiggle Party

*This is my first attempt at a collage for blogger...so hopefully, I will get better at it!

We take any excuse for a party that we can in our house. We've had an extra hard time getting back to reality and on track this week, and we really missed our girls over our little vacation...so we really thought it would be fun to have an impromptu dinner party for our little family.

Have you ever heard of the Wiggles? Well, if you haven't, be glad because those little songs are catchy and stick in your head! And, after a while, the blue wiggle, Anthony, even starts to look kinda cute! My husband jokes about my secret love affair for Anthony. It's a joke, of course! My Little Bit is also becoming a big fan. She will stop in her tracks if she hears the wiggles on tv or the cd player. We often play music while we cook or during the day (to avoid too much tv time) and the Wiggles are definitely my girls' number one pick!

Our SPROUT station has been counting down until the "Wiggly Waffles" started on their station, which incorporates the Wiggles hosting a two hourish breakfast time with wiggling, learning, singing, and dancing. It is all my LaLa has talked about for weeks. "Mommy, will the wiggles come on tomorrow?" "Mommy, do you think the wiggles can just come to our house for dinner? We could have wiggly waffles. That's their favorites!" The last comment inspired my dinner party idea!

LaLa, Little Bit, and I made waffles. I knew I had a waffle maker for a good reason! We made fruit salad...yummy, yummy! Fruit salad was a great dish if you have little hands that want to help! We had bacon...remember all that free bacon! I also had sausage cocktails that I cut the ends to be Henry the Octopus...my husband and LaLa ate ALL of these before we even started dinner! We also had Rosy tea to drink and hash brown casserole (from the song, Hot Potato, Hot Potato!). LaLa and I had extra programs from a wiggles concert that we glued to scrapbook paper for place mats and we found balloons left over from a recent birthday party that were perfect wiggly colors.

It was a lot of fun! After dinner, LaLa said, "Now, it's time for a Wiggly Dance Party!" And, that is exactly what we did! We went in the living room and danced with the wiggles...even Little Bit! It's crazy how a throw together party made such a memory...to all of us! Honestly, even Hubby and I had a blast! It certainly perked up our week! My sweet hubby took pictures of our wiggly party because he said "Tammy, this is too cool. You have to blog it!" So, thanks to Robert, I have pictures to share! Blogging is becoming a family affair!

Mama Drama Rule #26: Make even the smallest things in your children's lives a memory. It doesn't have to be time consuming or expensive...just a little different than the usual and extra special! I know even now as an adult those are the things that I remember most!

Per Request...I'm adding an addendum to this post! Here's some simple ideas for your next extra special dinner. I'd love to hear yours or hear your little one's response to these! It seems to be a list kind of week!

1. make a meal into a smiley face

2. use cookie cutters for sandwiches or cheese slices

3. Decorate with a bouquet of flowers you pick out together or some balloons

4. Dress up for a "tea" party

5. make dinner a theme (turn pancakes into waffles for Easter) (turn dinner into a jack-o-lantern face!) (dora party with a map to dinner...roll up tortilla shells as 'the map', make a path...with vegies and sing dora's song, etc)

6. if all else fails...google an idea!

Making Summer Memories

Summer Fun can be found in the most unexpected places! My girls love to cut grass with their daddy on his John Deere or with their Grandaddy (aka Gumpy) on his super duper lawn mower. We stopped by to say hello to my parents, and LaLa could just not get out of the car fast enough once she realized her Gumpy was cutting the grass without her. In her mind, nobody can accomplish this particular task without the help of LaLa! She was already on there and strapped in before I could even get Little Bit out of her car seat! I turned the corner and saw LaLa and Gumpy giggling like crazy little kids going around and around. It just made my heart happy. In this moment, LaLa would not have been happier if she would have been riding the teacups in Disney World! It made her day, and it made her laugh!

When I ran over there with my camera, they stopped real fast like they were little kids in trouble! I had to tell them to do it again so I could catch it on camera. LaLa got off and couldn't walk straight! Silly, silly!

Our Memorable Summer Moments 2009...
according to my little family:
1. Cutting the Grass with Daddy and Gumpy
2. Our Vegetable Garden
3. Going and Cheering for Daddy in his Triathlons
4. Beach Trips!
5. Little Bit starting to walk & her big Birthday!
6. LaLa's Soccer Games
7. Grilling out & eating outside
8. Fireworks & Fun on the Fourth
9. Bubbles & Chalk Hopscotch with Nana & Daddy Gene
10. Going on walks & "nature hunts" with Mama
11. Going on "trips" with MiMi shopping & to the park
12. Playing Games with Aunt J

Mama Drama Rule #25: There is nothing like a child's laughter to brighten your day! When you get crazy and frustrated, stop, take a break, and get on the floor with your little one. Tickle them and make silly faces until they do that great big belly laugh! It will surely make you forget your frustrations!

Project: Embroidery Stuff for Baby!

Monogram Madness...

Wow! We are being bombarded with some beautiful baby boys! We've had two friends have baby boys in the last four days...Samuel and Preston. This would make four boys so far this year, and we have two friends due with boys in the next couple months! Maybe they'll rub off on us because we obviously just have girls! We're so happy for our friends, and both of their boys are just absolutely adorable! Even though this family doesn't know anything about little boys, we know cute babies when we see them!

I've tried to get creative with baby gifts lately! I love to get unique stuff so I thought I would try to the same for these wonderful friends of ours in celebration of their new baby boys! I made these today for baby Preston. It was so much fun, and I was so happy with them! I'll include baby Samuel's sometime soon too! He has two older brothers already so I am sure they have plenty of little boy stuff so I am going to try to be really creative for him...something unique since he's the third!

See examples in pictures...

Onesies- Single Letter (10), Name/Monogram (12)

Bib-Single Letter (6), Name/Monogram (8)

Cloth Diaper~thick-Single Letter (5), Name/Monogram (7)

Let me know if you have any ideas! I'll be glad to help you create a baby gift or cute stuff for your own little one!

Forgive and Forget- the Love of a Child!

I know I have mentioned before that we can learn a lot from our kids, but I still become amazed at how many "little" lessons I learn from them daily. If we watch closely, their innocence gives us so many life lessons. Today, I took both of my girls to this thing called "open gym" at a kid's play area. They had the opportunity to play on jungle gym structures and gymnastic type of things. LaLa saw a little boy that was trying so hard to do several of the tasks. She followed him around...a complete stranger...and explained it to him and cheered him on the entire way.

I couldn't have been prouder, and I realized there a lot of little opportunities where I could be doing the same thing! At my daughter's birthday party, one of the girls received a green ball. Later, when another child started playing with it, LaLa just had a melt down. Now, I know she hadn't fallen desperately in love with this little green ball so quickly, but she was seriously upset with this little boy! In her little mind, this little boy had violated some sort of kid code by playing with her new green ball.

She eventually calmed down and became distracted by something else! Days later, my daughter was still talking about this little boy. She asked, "Can he come over and play? Can I write him a letter? Where does he live?" The questions just continued. I was thinking, What is her obsession with this little boy?! A friend of mine pointed out how funny it is that she had become so attached to this particular child after she was so upset about this incident at the party!

Kids forget and forgive. They take each other openly and honestly without any barriers. When they don't like something, you better believe they'll let you know! When they do like it, they tell you that too! I want a friend like that! Actually, I am blessed to have a few like that, but I really want to be like that...and wouldn't mind if all my friends were like that! (Colossians 3:13-14)

Love is an act of endless forgiveness, a tender look with becomes a habit.-Peter Ustinov

Mama Drama Rule #24: Show the same unconditional love that small children show to each other by focusing on what people do right rather all the little things they do wrong!

Coupon Update- I am still collecting, filing, and organizing coupons from the smart saver, red plum, sunday papers, and anywhere else I can find them! Hopefully, when I get a good solid collection, I will be ready to go! I'm still diving into hotcouponworld.com and coupon blogs! I'll keep you posted! I have discovered the penny mystery item at publix...can't go wrong there!:)

Project Update- About to post baby projects that I've been working on! I have a dozen projects buzzing in my head this week! I saw so many neat little things in Florida that I actually started making a list of things I wanted to try to make or copy!

You can learn a lot about life from a triathlon!

I'm relieved to say...Robert amazingly accomplished his triathlon. He did it all in two short hours. He came out of that water jumping up and down and cheering and then ran on to the next phase. I think he was just as relieved that part was completed! As the swimmers got out of the water and ran to their transition spots, there were volunteers waiting to spray them with vinegar to take out the sting of all their jelly fish bites from the ocean. That was just one indication to me where I thought these people were committed and a tad bit crazy! That, and their bikes probably cost more than my car! It was interesting to watch to say the least.

I observed ten items from the triathlon that I believe us mamas can completely learn and associate with...

1. We often get "stung" by jellyfish and other creatures along the way that try to get us off our course. You have to just push them off, yell out at the sting, and keep going....at least until your feet touch again!

2. We can be the most anxious before we even start a daunting task! Starting is usually the hardest part...so, just remember to jump in, get your feet wet, and give it a good, dedicated try! You might be surprised at the results!

3. Utilize the people in our lives that are supporting us, cheering us on, giving us water to get through, or even spraying us with vinegar. We hear enough critiques in this world about what we are not doing and should be doing! Focus on the supporters!

4. Be a supporter! There are people out there with your same goals. They are running the race beside you. If we are one of the ones supporting and encouraging, you'll be amazed at how it will come back to you when you really need it!

5. Transition time is vital! We mamas know this first hand! Everything has to have a place and get put back in its place to eliminate serious time wasters! It's easier said than done, but it's every mamas goal!

6. Enjoy the moment because it will be over as fast as it started! As Hubby was riding his bike, he told us it was just incredible--the views, the excitement, the other racers. It would have been easy to dismiss these thoughts because he was so focused on finishing, but I think reflecting and enjoying these moments made it even more memorable! How often I do that as a mama?! I'm so focused on getting to practices and games that I miss the moments of my LaLa playing soccer and being a team! I'm so focused on Little Bit climbing into everything that I miss enjoying her inquisitive nature and the sneaky smile she sends me before she does it!

7. Some of these athletes' equipment was unbelievable, as well as their bodies! As you look around, you may notice people that look a little more equipped or better at the job. Don't let it intimidate you! You just do the best you can and keep training until you get better and better!

8. Keep hydrated! I would see all the athletes drinking bottles and bottles of water and eating these power bars. If I run myself too thin, I am not staying hydrated. Or, if I lose focus and my walk with God becomes on the back burner, I can feel myself getting dehydrated. Or, if Hubby and I are going to different directions, I can feel our relationship getting dehydrated. We have to focus some time on each other and re-communicate, and then we feel hydrated again.

9. Focus on the finish line. You can't get anywhere without a mission or a goal. I love the mamas that make a mission statement for their family. It seems like it would keep you focused! I love the concept of finish lines too! It makes me think of us being in this world working toward the race to our "heavenly" finish line...crossing it and God cheering for us...high fives and all!

10. CELEBRATE! This is my favorite! When you, your children, your hubby, or someone you love has accomplishments, tries a new adventure, or has done a good job, it's time to celebrate! The triathlon hosted a catered lunch that was amazing, live bands, free drinks, etc. They wanted the athletes and their families to be proud and relish in the experience. After, Robert and I went to lay by the pool. Celebrate!

I think it is the first time in over three years (since my three year old was born!) that I have had the opportunity to relax by the pool! I read, enjoyed the music, and treasured the time with Robert...which fell asleep by the pool after all he did! After several hours, we took naps, got dressed and went out to the Baytown Wharf. We had an incredible dinner with some friends and had to snatch our girls some treasures to bring back. Everything we saw or did, we both commented, "oh, our girls would like that!"

As we are packing up today and cleaning the condo, we are anxious to make the long drive and see our girls. We have random lists coming in our heads of all the activities and to do's of the week...as reality starts to set in. We are trying to soak up being able to leisurely walk around, the peace and the quiet, and God's majestic ocean. We both feel rejuvenated, closer, proud of this accomplishment, and able to go back home and be even better parents!

Mama Drama Rule #23: You treasure your life and your children more...when you have a little bit of time to spend away from them!

Crazy or Committed?

"A Journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."

~I don't know the author, but this is Robert's favorite quote!

Just a quick post for today! We're enjoying our time in Florida and praying for Robert's big triathlon tomorrow. He has to be up in the morning bright and early! The triathlon involves .5 mile swim...in the ocean...and 20 mile bike and 4 mile run. Let me point out that the weather has been kind of wild lately due to tropical storms. Right now, you look out on the beach at a yellow flag. For someone that is a great swimmer, but not a regular swimmer in the ocean, this can be an even bigger challenge! Now, I can't figure out why anyone in their right mind would voluntarily want to do something like this, but he has trained for an entire year to accomplish this feat. I'll be cheering him on in the morning...praying he doesn't drown or get eaten by anything in the ocean...and crosses the finish line alive and well! So, Crazy or Committed? We'll just have to see! Good luck, Hubby!

Mama Drama Rule #22: If we have to decide if what we are doing is crazy or committed, we might need to consider if we should be committed because we are crazy!

A Sincere Thank YOU!

LaLa has completed her very first soccer season. The teams are having a celebration Friday evening. Each child will receive a soccer trophy from the church's recreation league. Then, they continue to have a team celebration with pizza and cupcakes. The parents all went in together to present the children with gifts and the coach a gift. Can you imagine coaching eight little 3-5 year old children on how to master the concept of soccer?! He did a marvelous job with his encouragement and patience. Each child enjoyed himself and felt an included part of the team.

I ordered little cinch sport style back packs and embroidered the kids' names on them. They were from Oriental Trading Company, and they turned out really cute and sturdy, especially for the price! Then, I added little soccer whistles...making the grand total for the kids' gifts 25 dollars-a little more than 3 dollars per child. Then, Charlotte and I went on a hunt to find wonderful little "movie" items to add to his soccer bucket and his movie theater gift card. A mother of one of the children on the team is also adding a certificate for a free house cleaning from her business! I hope this coach really enjoys his gifts, and he knows that he made a positive difference in our children's lives!

Have you ever heard the statement, "It takes a village to raise a child"? Well, I have found in my three and a half years of being a mama that it is definitely a true statement! So many individuals impact the lives of our children. It is a huge responsibility as mamas to ensure that these individuals are impacting them in a positive way, and when we are blessed to have someone take their time and love to impact our children, we definitely need to let them know how much we appreciate it!

Concentrate on making your village a place of security and individuals that love and cherish your children! It is easy to take on that "super" mama role and try to do it all on your own. It's a lonely route! When I first became a mama, I thought a mama was suppose to be able to do everything for her child. I slowly realized the hard way that God designed raising a child to be a group effort! Of course, you have the biggest impact and responsibility, but treasure and utilize all the others that are a part of that village! Many of them have something valuable to share with your child(ren)!

Mama Drama Rule # 21: Consider the teachers, the lunchroom workers, grandparents, friends, relatives, church workers, etc. that make up our VILLAGE. Thank God for them, and remember to tell them thank you! They are impacting the most important and impressionable people we have in our lives--our children!

Bring home the bacon! My first coupon experience!

Update...

Just wanted to send an update of my FIRST coupon experience! A friend of mine has a blog: http://timandbethanysjourneyforcaroline.blogspot.com/ She has been "tutoring" me on how to be a coupon queen like her! She completely inspires me with her couponing and budgeting! Let me point out though that her little Caroline is always dressed ADORABLE! She can always find the deals though! I did have my husband do the "deed" of checking out because I was scared how this was really going to work! He's brave, especially when he thinks he will get a deal! Although the manager did have to come out to verify the coupons, it worked great. The check out guy said, "This can't be right. How are you getting the bacon for free, and it says I owe you money?!" The second time around I kinda figured out the overage concept and added a carton of milk...and still did not pay anything! It was amazing!

Coupons, coupons, coupons

I've been a little obsessed lately with blogs, articles, and friends that are using and saving using coupons. They are spending a fortune at the grocery store and coming out actually spending a few dollars. I get so frustrated every week after I finish my grocery shopping at how much money I spend, and I plan our menus according to what is on sale! I have decided this is definitely an area that I can save us money...resulting in more money for cute things for my girls and fun stuff to do!

I guess I have been talking quite a lot about this without realizing it! I picked LaLa up from preschool today and told her that we had to run by the store because we were making her soccer coach a special gift from the team for the soccer celebration Friday. She said, "oh, mama, i will probably need a toy too, but I forgot my coupon at home!" I couldn't help but laugh...and totally got suckered into letting her get a toy at the dollar store...without the non-existing coupon!

A new friend is helping me with my coupon obsession, and I am going to take a class soon! Coupon classes, who knew?! I'm so overwhelmed by the entire concept, but I'm determined and inspired so I'll keep you posted! I heard today how to get free bacon from Publix. We'll see if it works! One website that the friend told me about is http://www.hotcouponworld.com/. It's a little intimidating so you may need to do like I am and spend some time exploring when the little ones are in bed! Good Luck!

This is just part of the latest of this mama's drama! My hubby and I are also leaving our two sweet girls for four days with my parents while my hubby is in a triathlon in Florida! It's one of the first times we have left them both, and I am a nervous, nervous mama! I'll keep you posted...I know, I know, we mamas are desperate for a break and dream of a vacation...and then we get crazy nervous when we actually get one!

Mama Drama Rule #20- Always save money in areas that you can. A little effort to save money is totally worth it because money saved in one area is more money that can be spent by mama in another area!

Project- I finished the little "sizzles" soccer team's bags for the end of season gifts! I'll try to post them tomorrow before we leave for the beach!

Love Letters

Hi, friends,

I finished my LOVE letter to my girls! By the way, I know you can see their real names! I don't mind sharing their names...I just include their nicknames in the blog so they can't one day GOOGLE themselves and find it...or their friends! I save everything...including things I write about them to give them....one day!

LaLa asked me to read hers. I got to about #23 and she said, "okay, i just have so much to love. i need some chocolate milk now!" Everybody needs to hear that they have things to love about them!

A NOTEworthy Expression of Love

My grandmother (Nannie) sends every member of her family a card on their birthday. It amazes me every year when she remembers my birthday and the birthdays of my little family. The first year that I was married, my husband was included as well. Now, that is no little feat when you consider who is in her “family”. As of my last count, her family includes five daughters, five son-in-laws, eleven grandchildren, six grandchildren-in-laws, and nine great grandchildren. That’s a total of twenty-seven birthdays to remember, cards to purchase, personal notes to write, envelopes to stuff and address, and stamps to lick—not to mention a small fortune in postage! However, each year I receive the card, read the message, put it on the bulletin board, and then I put it away to save. Now, there are very few emails that have ever meant enough to me to display and save!

My other grandmother used to give me books and would always include a letter or note. Now, that she has passed away, I will often accidently come across a book or cookbook and read her letters. It is almost like she is still here. They are precious treasures that I am so glad she took the time to include. Between these written words that my grandmothers made a priority to bless me with, they have made me feel loved even when miles and years have separated us.

It’s so exciting to receive a letter in the mail! It breaks the monotony of the usual contents within the mailbox including bills, junk mail, sales ads, magazines, and such. There is just something about a handwritten letter, note, or card. You know there was an effort that went behind it. Honestly, I usually feel guilty when I receive one! In all honesty, it’s rather difficult to take the time to purchase a card or put the thought into writing a letter. However, that is the treasured part of the letter—the thought put behind it! I often have very good intentions of writing a letter or sending a card. Unfortunately, at times, I will buy the card or write the letter and never send it…the brain lapses that come with “mamahood”! If it means so much to me though, it would definitely mean something to my loved ones. Thus, it is something I should work on doing more frequently and consistently!

Let’s see…how many ways are you “connected” to people. Off the top of my head, I came up with facebook, MySpace, twitter, blogs, emails, texts, phone calls, mail, cell phones, etc... Now, consider, which one you use the least? It is probably the one that means the most. Reflect on how much correspondence that you save from the others? Letters, cards, and notes are probably the ones that are treasured by the most of us. In today’s world, we are used to things being quick, easy, and almost effortless. What did we do before cell phones, email, and televisions? We had no choice but connect to people!

My husband once gave me a wonderful Christmas present—100 things he loves about me. Now, he hates to write anything. My birthday and anniversary cards usually have a couple words and his signature so this particular gift was even more of a treasure. We could learn a lot from my grandmothers! The effort behind the action is what demonstrates the love, and that’s what is treasured and will always be treasured.

I encourage you to sit down and take the time to pour out a sincere letter or card to three people. Most importantly, I’ll remind you not to follow my example and never mail them! Let the people that you care about know that you care about them by writing it down and taking the time and effort. One day, this may give them a sweet memory of how much you cared about them.

Speaking of that, I have thank you notes that I should have mailed out….in JULY!

Mama Drama Rule #19-Make a point to leave a “written” trail of love that can be treasured by those you love!

Project- I am “stealing” my hubby’s great idea and writing my girls both a letter of 100 things I love about them! I want them to know that there are so many things I loved about them…even at their young ages of 1 and 3! I’ll add the pictures as soon as I finish!

It's Been My Pleasure Serving You...

It's my pleasure...

We have a restaurant in Georgia called Chick-fil-a. I'm stating this fact because someone actually asked me what it was when I wrote it in a past posting. If you do not know what it is, I encourage you to stop by one day and try it out! I, personally, can't imagine what someone would do without a Chick-fil-a! It was founded by a man named Truett Cathy on Christian principles. Now, locally, we have chick-fil-as and Truetts. They are both the same concept and the same franchise. I believe one of their "trademarks" is the statement, "It's my pleasure or it's been my pleasure serving you." Their employees respond with this statement consistently. My daughter, LaLa was given one of their "hats" today at the restaurant. For the rest of the day, she would "cook" for me and say, "It was my pleasure, mama" as she would give me the "food".

That statement made me think. What an awesome attitude for a company to have as they "serve" their customers! Hmmm...how often do I say that when I am "serving" my family as wife or mama? Honestly, if I truly thought about it, I probably say that or give off that attitude for strangers and people outside of my family more than for my own little crew! I think a lot of it has to do with 'recognition' of the action or task that you are doing for someone. If I volunteer in the community or at church, I often get sincere appreciation or some acknowledgement that I served. I quickly reply with a genuine attitude of "it's been my pleasure...". However, as a mama, we are rarely acknowledged or appreciated. It can be a job that is often unrecognized and completely thankless at times.

If you are a stay at home mom, a great example of this is the attitude given when people ask your occupation. They will often consider that being a mama is not a job at all or say, "oh, you just stay at home." Control your need to cause them bodily harm. More than likely, they wouldn't be able to walk a day in your shoes. Regardless, if you work or stay at home as a mama, very few people know what all you do and how much you do except for YOU! Although usually as mamas, we find our appreciation in the little things our children do--a hug, a smile, a kind act, or a special drawing. Little ones...and even teenagers.. can rarely verbalize or understand what all you are doing as a mama. One day, when they have kids of their own, they will realize it. That's when you can genuinely reply, "It was my pleasure."

For now, we have a huge responsibility each day as mamas. We are molding and shaping the lives of little people. They need us...even when they think they don't. And, rarely, does the job of mama end when they're 18. It is a job that is never ending and often unappreciated, but it is a job that we should be thankful for and dedicated to. So, when I'm up at three in the morning with one of the girls or shuttling them to an activity or making them a meal, I may not get a thank you, but rather than wait for the acknowledgement and appreciation, I am going to try my best to remember to genuinely say and feel, "It's been my pleasure serving you."

--Thank you Chick-fil-a for setting such an example!

Mama Drama Rule #18- A mama's job is one of complete servitude. Our children are made up of all the small contributions that we invest into them day after day and minute after minute. Make sure they know you enjoy and treasure the job like no other!

Bags...bags...bags...and more to come!

Monogram Madness! Give a Bag some Personality! Embroider it!

I hope everyone is having a great Monday! My girls and I are being attacked brutally by allergies. I barely have a voice! My hubby and LaLa think it is quite funny that chatty mama can only croak out "her commands" as "queen mama"! Hubby and I are suppose to go out of town for several days the end of this week (more on that later!) without the kids! First time...serious mama drama! My mama (aka...mimi and mafia mama) and my "adopted" sister (aka...actually my cousin that grew up with us, psycho sis--meant with love:), and mini mafia mama) are managing the mama front while we are gone! With my known control issues, it is sure to be quite interesting! God bless them for even trying to manage this crazy chaos!

Remember, I said I was "bag" crazy lately! It all started with LaLa's "soccer celebration". I went on a search for sporty (cheap) (but still sturdy) bags that I could embroider for the soccer team, "The Sizzles". I ordered them, and I'm hoping they will be in today or tomorrow! I also ordered little trick or treat bags for LaLa's preschool class to embroider (and extras if you want one!). This mama is seriously planning ahead! I just love the fall and all the holidays so it's more getting excited than planning ahead!

LaLa came up to me yesterday with her little ballet bag, and said, "Mama, wouldn't this just be beautiful with my name on it?" I've created a little mini monogram monster! Also, if you find a bag you want embroidered, I can usually do it for $5-7 according to the size, material, and name! The pink and green bag is stephen joseph's quilted bags. I just did two of these. One was for my Little Bit and one was for a friend! They are expensive little bags (25-30 a piece), but they last forever and you can throw them in the washing machine!

Then, I found these cute bags the other day. (bags with bow and mini backpacks) Now, these are not sturdy bags. Imagine the "going green" kind of material from the grocery store bags. They are great, though, for little ones to take to nursery or restaurant toys, going on a trip to grandma's, etc.. I also made one for our "library books" to return to hang on the hook by the door. This way library books go right back in the bag. We just grab it on the way out instead of searching for them when they're due! It looks nice and organized too!

I'm only selling these for $6.00 (for a letter or monogram) and $7.00 (for a name). I have been using these for "gift bags". I'm working on one now for a sweet girl at church that's expecting. I'm putting the baby's name on the bag and filling it with "baby stuff". Cute and personal...and so far...the gift is less than $20! I'll post a pic when I'm all done!

I found this cute blog the other day called southern charm. The author said one true southern tradition is to put our monogram on everything! Well, I guess my girls and I are really, really southern!:)

Happy Monday!
Tammy

PERFECTION

My hubby and I teach a 3 year old Awana's class on Sunday nights. It's a neat organization. It is almost like a boy/girl scout from a Christian perspective and inspiration. You learn Bible lessons and Bible verses and earn badges for your vest. It's quite entertaining so far. We usually have eight students. One of them is our three year old daughter, LaLa.

Tonight, we did a "puppet" show to visually show the little people what sin is. The puppets did sinful actions (wouldn't share, didn't obey, wasn't kind, etc). Whenever the puppets would "sin", one of the kids would mark on their cut out hearts with chalk to show that sin makes our heart yucky. Then, to represent Jesus dying on the cross and paying the price for our sins, the kids erased the chalk from their hearts. I really thought the kids were getting the concept and into the lesson. I was thinking..."Yeah! "They understand the concept." It's a difficult lesson for adults much less little ones.

Just when we thought the kids were really getting it, one child told me that Jesus didn't need to die on the cross for her sins because she doesn't sin. She said, "I don't sin that hurts Jesus. I'm perfect. My daddy told me so." Yep, that was my daughter. Thanks Robert! I'll let him explain that one.

Mama Drama Rule #18: Be careful what you tell your children! They take you very seriously!

Project coming soon! I have gone "bag" crazy lately. I found cute, reasonable bags at Big Lots and Hobby Lobby! They are clearing them out before seasonal changes! They are perfect for embroidery! These are great for church nursery or to make cute gift sets in! I also spent A LOT of time at Hobby Lobby Saturday buying seasonal fabric! I'm so excited to do sewing and embroidery projects for the fall!

Is There an Echo in Here?

Echoes have been on my mind quite a bit lately for so many reasons. First, my kids are both obsessed with echoes. As soon as they figure out that their voice echoes, they will continuously do it and smile…until I acknowledge their talent of echoing or give a good old fashion mama look to stop. The place that it drives me the craziest is the foyer of our church. Of course, as you can imagine, it draws quite a bit of attention. Echoes have also just driven me nuts lately because my LaLa and Little Bit are little echoes in and of themselves! If I say or do something, you can just about guarantee that one of them will repeat it or mimic it. And, they also echo one another….constantly.

Periodically, we have movie night. We make it a really big deal! We make popcorn, eat dinner on blankets in the living room…in our jammies…and settle in for a movie. It’s one of our loved traditions. Tonight, it was Kung Fu Panda. My daughter gets very excited about movie night. After school today, we went to pick up our movie night supplies. We went in Kroger (they have dollar movies) to choose our movie. My kiddos were touching the touch screen just as I would make some progress on the machine. Frustrated, I put Little Bit down and tried to block her in with my legs spread cowboy style while she and LaLa pointed at pictures and letters on the machine. (I’m sure it all looked quite entertaining.) Well, I was just about finished, and LaLa yells “PeeeeeePeeeeeee” ! “EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEmergencY!” Now, I know that it rarely an actual emergency with LaLa, and I was almost done with this machine so I told LaLa just to hold it for a few more seconds. Please know that there were people waiting behind us too.

As soon as you tell a three year old to “hold” it, they literally grab themselves and HOLD it! I’ve explained that this is not necessary, and obviously, she took none of it to heart! I tried to ignore it as she continuously grabbed herself chanting “peeee peeee, peeeee peeeee, peeeee peeee.” Next thing I know, Little Bit grabs herself (like her big sister) and starts doing the same pee dance yelling “EEEEEE EEEE, EEEEE, EEEEE”. I even had to stop for a moment because this was new for my one year old and quite funny….for a second. You could tell the people that had kids from the people that didn’t. I had looks from what is wrong with your kids to pure pity to genuine amusement! Finally, I scanned my card, grabbed our movies, and my little echoes and we all ran for the potty. One simple task turned out to be quite an ordeal, but we survived and accomplished our mission!

My kids have picked up on this concept of echoing quite innocently, but if you think about it, we do this as adults quite often unintentionally. We tend to “echo” who we spend our time around. If they are positive and uplifting, then, usually, we are too. If they have positive habits, then we will more than likely pick up on those same habits. We are almost unconsciously “inspired”…by others, but the same thing can be said for the opposite spectrum of that. Negative behaviors tend to echo negative associations. If you think about it, we have all been on that “negative” side. How many times have we mamas been in a bad mood or stressed and it becomes contagious? It creates an echo effect!

A Chinese Proverb says, “A bad word whispered will echo a hundred miles”. If you replace “word” with “deed” or “attitude” or “mood” or any of the such, the same truth is still evident. I have to be even extra cautious lately because I could become “echoed” at any moment. What about all the times that I am echoed and don’t even realize it? Could it be the time I gossiped? Could it be the time I lost my patience with my kids, my husband, or the cell phone lady that didn’t know what she was doing? Could it be the time that I missed an opportunity to say I love you or thank you? I usually don’t even realize who my echo touches.

Mama Drama Rule #17: In everything you say and in everything you do, imagine you are being echoed loudly by your loved ones….would you be saying and doing the same things? If not, watch out for that echo. Its reach is farther than you may think.

You are my Sunshine..or "SONshine"...

A couple weeks ago, my kids and I were doing our grocery shopping. I was very frustrated with the long lines and my kiddos refusing to stay in the buggy and touching EVERYTHING. LaLa turned to me and said, “Mama, are you shining?” Looking down at my shirt and wiping my face…thinking I must have a sticker or something on me to ensue this question, I said, “Am I shining where, LaLa?” She said, “Mama, we’re suppose to shine for Jesus all the time.” Hmmm…good point, LaLa, and good accountability, huh? My guess this was recently a topic in Sunday School or Children’s Church. It definitely stuck with her!

She has consistently asked me the same question over the last couple weeks. It seems every time I get frustrated…there is LaLa to ask me the same question, “Mama, are you shining for Jesus?”Today, I asked her how she is shining. She responded, “Well, today, I shined for Jesus every time I smiled.” Wow, I think Jesus is trying to tell me something lately! I could do a lot more smiling and a lot more shining.

“Let your light shine in front of others. Then they will see the good things you do. And they will praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

Mama Drama Rule # 16: The truth can come to you in all different ways…just be careful to really listen for it…even when it is annoying!

Desperate Times calls for Desperate Measures

Dear Teacher,

You may have noticed that my child today had an odd scent that followed her. Well, you see, it can be easily explained. Although you just saw my beautiful little girl as she walked in with her two pigtails placed just right with precious white ribbon and her uniform pressed just so and that huge grin when she walked in your door, there was a great deal more that occurred this morning.

We have been very diligent about laying out her uniform together the night before and establishing a positive morning routine...you know just the way we are supposed to. Well, things were going just fine this morning. I fixed her hair. I put on her navy knee high socks. I started to put on her little white peter pan shirt, and that's where it stopped. She started squirming and whining saying, "it's too itchy." I explained, "LaLa, this is the same shirt you wore last Wednesday. It is not itchy." Well, I thought surely she would eventually finish getting dressed. Nope, she stayed in her pigtails, Dora panties, navy knee highs, and white shoes. We ate breakfast, checked her backpack, got in the car (I'm serious). By this point, I'm really starting to sweat it. I am going into an all out battle in the parking lot or worse...take her in half naked (I wouldn't really do this, but it did pass through my mind).

I tried to prep her the entire 25 minute drive. "LaLa, you don't want to miss out on preschool." "LaLa, you don't want to go in without your clothes on"--which she responded, "Oh, I don't mind, mommy". We got to school, and this mama was still playing it cool. It was like a game of chicken waiting to see who was going to give in first. I unbuckled her sister's carseat, got my umbrella ready, and went to get LaLa out of the car...still half naked." She found a box of Bounce dryer sheets that I had just bought the day before and had somehow (by the Grace of God) fallen out of the bags in unloading the car. She said, "Mama, what's this?" I said, "Oh, LaLa, these are magic smelly sheets that make you run fast and take the itchiness out of your clothes. You just rub it all over."

So, you see, teacher, it was desperate measures and a last minute stroke of genius. She took out a dryer sheet and rubbed it all over her body. I dressed her there in the car outside of the school building. She, then, rubbed that dryer sheet all over her clothes. Then, with a great smile, she said, "Mama, I had better put this in a safe place so I know I have it if I get itchy again. That way I don't have to get naked at school." Then, she shoved it right down her shirt.

I know, teacher, that she smells mighty strong, but there was no other way really. I hope you won't mind. I know after I walked her in, received a great big hug and kiss, and a quick wave bye and climbed in my car, I could still smell that smell. Victory and Bounce "outdoor fresh" sheets had never smelled so sweet...or made me smile so big.

Thank you for your understanding,
A sincere and desperate mama!
Tammy

Mama Drama Rule #15: When you get in a desperate situation with your kiddos, be creative...sometimes that's the only thing that will work!

Do you like your husband?

Well...
on most days, my answer would invariably change two to three times. Do I like him? Hmmm…you mean on a regular basis or this second? Do I love him? Always. Like and love are two very different things. I call him a groundhog baby for multiple reasons. First, he was born on groundhog’s day. Second, the groundhog either sees his shadow or doesn’t…one extreme or the other. Well, that’s my hubby. He is either wonderfully happy or not so pleasant to be around (I’m trying to be nice!)…He is either completely obsessed with working out (he has been training for triathlons for the last year…I know, crazy) or not working out at all (He just decided one day last August that he was going to be in triathlons. I laughed. He has always been fit, but as I had babies, he had enjoyed the pregnancy cravings right along with me. Well, for the last year, he has gotten up at 4 or 4:30 am and gone to work out. Then, sometimes, he even works out again at night, and I’m not talking working out like a normal person. He swims over .5 mile…bikes over 20 miles…and runs over 5 miles regularly. Plus, he has lost over 20 lbs. with his obsession. I get winded going to the mailbox. Seriously, I like to do the “fun” working out, but I am sporadic and…um, well, normal. He went from one extreme to the other.

So, my groundhog hubby has his very likeable moments to his “now, what was I thinking when I married him” moments probably like the rest of his. His tendencies just seem more extreme than most. Now, when you mix kids, jobs, and responsibilities in the mix…an explosion is inevitable here and there! Most days, you go through your to do lists, handle the mama drama, take care of the mess and stress of the kids, and you are both working side by side but not really being together. I think we get to the point quite often.

Well, we went out on our date, which mostly included errands. We did get to see a movie and eat dinner, and we didn’t have to rush. At first as we were running errands, we discussed the “have to’s” that we just haven’t gotten around to telling each other. Then, as the day went on, we actually started talking to one another about the nothing kinds of stuff. We were sitting at dinner, and I was thinking, “ya know, he’s funny. I have been laughing so hard. I am thoroughly enjoying his company, and heck, I even like him.” I think at first he was surprised when I told him what I was thinking…because his response was “you mean there are times when you don’t like me?” He was joking because he knows there are many, but for these few hours we got to be just Tammy and Robert…nobody’s employee, nobody’s mommy or daddy, no imminent to do’s or catastrophes…just us.

Favorite Quotes

Joyce Brothers-“My husband and I have never considered divorce…murder sometimes, but never divorce.”

Friedrick Nietzsche-“It is not a lack of love, but a lack of friendship that makes unhappy marriages.”

Lyndon B. Johnson- “Only two things are necessary to keep one's wife happy. One is to let her think she is having her own way, the other, to let her have it.”

Mama Drama Rule #14: As crazy as it sounds, if it seems you are disliking your hubby more than liking him, some time away to remember who you are may be just what you need. Then, at least when those dislike moments happen, you can look back and remember there was a fleeting moment when you did like him!:)

Grandparent Goof II

I'm back to share the second phase of the Grandparent Goof. I warned my mom that I was sharing this story today. The first thing she said was, "oh, no, people will think I'm awful!" She's not. She's actually completely wonderful. She says exactly what she is thinking. That is the part that gets her in trouble! When she calls my hubby's cell phone, he has put her in his phone as Mafia Mama, and the name has kinda stuck. What she says goes in our family! My daughter has managed to wrap both of my parents around her little finger. She knows how to just pitifully suggest something...just how she needs to go to the park, a particular toy, or to eat at a specific place...they just melt in her hands. Now, I try the same tactics, and I fail miserably!

My mom came over several days to help me get ready for Little Bit's birthday party a few weeks ago. We'd do a couple things everyday to avoid having a lot to do last minute. With a 1 year old and a 3 year old underfoot, the only way to get things accomplished is doing a little here and there. My mom and I both have strong opinions on how to do certain things. My mom did something...it was something silly like how she was cutting a cucumber, and I came over redoing it a different way! It's not on purpose. It's a fault by nature! I didn't even realize I was doing it, and my mom said, "Tammy, you keep redoing everything I'm doing." I laughed and jokingly said, "You just have to do it the right way." She said, "Tammy (probably my entire four names knowing her!), I'm about sick of you. You keep it up and I'm going home!" She then came up and booty bumped me out of the way and took my knife to do the cutting how she pleased. The whole episode was quite innocent and quick. I didn't think anything about it, yet little years were listening unnoticed!

A few hours later, my mom (Mimi) said, "LaLa, come show me where these books go." LaLa turned around, put her hands on her hips, and said "Mimi, you might need to go home. I'm about sick of you." My mom's jaw dropped out of shock! I died laughing to the point I had to sit on the floor. Once I could speak, I told my mom that I was so glad you she taught my daughter such wonderful things! My mom turned to LaLa and said, "LaLa, that's not nice. You hurt Mimi's feelings." I was trying very hard to compose myself because I could seriously see her one day telling someone at church, her teacher, or a friend that she was sick of them. I was explaining to LaLa that it was true. My mom said, "So, LaLa, what do you say when you hurt someone's feelings?" My sweet daughter turned around, put her cupped hand up to her cheek, and said, "Mimi, you'll just have to cry me a tear." Then, she turned and walked out of the room! This is another one of my mom's infamous sayings!

My mom felt so badly for LaLa picking up on these "Mafia Mamaisms" from her Mimi! It's fine when Mimi says them! It's what makes her Mafia Mama, but it has a totally different effect when it comes out of a sweet and sassy three year old's mouth! Fortunately, I haven't heard her repeat these anymore after this event, but it was absolutely hilarious! Now, my theory is: even if she repeats anything I say and it's horrible....I'll just blame it on her Mimi!

Mama Drama Rule #13: We mamas never know when our little ones are using their BIG ears to listen to every little thing that we and our families say! So, be careful what you say...it will probably be repeated before it's over with!

Grandparent Goofs I

We are very fortunate to have two sets of wonderful grandparents. My parents live very close and are an intricate part in keeping my sanity with their help and support. My hubby's parents live a couple hours away, but they come down regularly and go out of their way to stay in close touch. They are all so dedicated and adore the girls...honestly, they spoil them rotten! My girls somehow know that both sets of grandparents will do anything at anytime for their grandbabies. I don't know how grandkids learn this so young!

My hubby's parents spent this weekend with us. We had a fun-filled time going to LaLa's soccer game, grilling out, and hubby and I even took advantage of their visit and went on a wonderful date...without kids! Now, they are way too nice to ever say this, but many people have told me that I am a little OCD when it comes to leaving my kids with...anyone. I make lists, important information, etc.. I have really improved and do not do this as severely as I used to. So, for my hubby's parents...I set out the girl's jammies, their dinners, snacks they could have, their cups for dinner, explained bedtime routines, etc..

When we came back, LaLa was laying on the couch with her grandparents and about ready for bed. I volunteered to get her ready for bed, and I asked her grandparents where her jammies were. Her granddad came around the corner with Little Bit's jammies saying "Now, these can't be LaLa's...where would hers be?" Then, the story began unfolding.

They bathed Little Bit off, and began putting on her jammies. LaLa said, "Nana, let me look at her jammies." Nana said, "oh, they're winnie the pooh." LaLa emphasized, "No, Nana, turn her around and let me get a good look at her." Her grandparents kind of laughed at the three year old's mature reaction of getting a critical look at these particular jammies. LaLa said in response to Nana turning Little Bit around to show her off, "Hmmm...that just doesn't seem right. I have jammies just like that. That seems weird." Her response was written off as a random, crazy thing my 3 year old says...which happens often with her imagination! Her granddad went on upstairs to put a sleepy Little Bit to bed. Come to find out, the Grandparents actually put LaLa's jammies on Little Bit...keep in mind Little Bit wears 9-12 months and LaLa wears 3 or 4T.

As I walked in to check on my sleeping Little Bit, she is sleeping so peacefully in a shirt that swallowed her whole and shorts that went past her little ankles. It was quite funny! What was even funnier is LaLa had figured it out the whole time.

Mama Drama Rule #12: I love grandparent goofs! They're cute and funny...However, it's not so cute and funny if a mama makes the same goof. Your husband would be wondering what you'd been drinking!

Just wait, my mama's grandparent goof coming up tomorrow!

Project: Embroidered Sibling Shirts

More Monogram Madness!

These are awful picture qualities because of the lighting..or lack of, but I was determined to finally get these online! Baby Ava's onesie has a matching bow like the one the baby is wearing on the shirt. These shirts are for a friend of mine, Pepper, and her two kiddos. They are two of my favorite kiddos...excluding mine own of course! We were trying to figure out how to make "sibling" shirts in a kind of football theme. A lot of the unique boy shirts are not very boyish...so this is what we came up with that would be appropriate for both! Caleb's shirt says, "Big Brother on top, 09 (the year she was born), and Team Ava." Ava's shirt says "Baby Sister, a pic of a little girl, and I'm Caleb's biggest fan." Their names are on the back of the shirt in a jersey style. I've decided that making 2 sided shirts are not my favorite things to embroider! It totally worked, but it wasn't easy to do both sides! I'd love to hear any tricks if anyone has any! I'm hoping Pepper will send me pictures of the two kiddos so I can show them off in their outfits...they'll be in the mail to you next week! You can't help to love embroidering! It makes anything more personal and shows so much personality!

Happy Monogramming!

Tammy

A Mama's Embarrassing Moment...Don't let them catch you with your pants down!

I was talking on the phone recently as both of my children were pulling on my pants and my legs to get my attention. I made the remark that my girls were making me lose my focus in my conversation because my pants were literally starting to fall down. I don’t know what it is about being on the phone that totally attracts children to need your immediate attention. They were completely preoccupied prior to the phone ringing!

My friend said, “oh no, I have you beat on that!” She told me this story, and I laughed so hard that I thought I was going to wet my pants! I asked her permission to share this story because it is just hilarious! I hope I can tell it as well as she did!

She was recently at Chick-fil-a with her two little girls (a 3 and 1 year old). She always dresses super cute, and I can just see her wearing the outfit she described… a summery cotton skirt and a cute t-shirt. It was “cow” appreciation day (free meals for people who dress up as cows) so the place was extra packed. She picked up her cutie of a one year old and had her on one hip. With the other hand, she grabbed the tray that was piled full of food. She thought she was balancing the two pretty well! Just then, her three year old became very upset about something and came over desperately trying to get her mama’s attention! My friend was pretty coordinated and tried to handle the upset three year old, balance her full tray, and hold the squirming one year old. Well, I guess her three year old was just not completely satisfied and grabbed on to mama’s skirt trying to get her attention once again. Just then, my poor friend’s skirt was left pulled down by her little girl. So, there she was…baby on one hip, full tray in the other, everyone looking at the upset preschooler (and her in turn) and her skirt down by her ankles! She said she couldn’t figure out what to do first…fuss at her preschooler, put down the baby (but then she’d have to bend over!), or walk over and put her tray down…in order to pull her skirt back up!

This story just cracked me up, and I am so glad she let me share it! At least my kids haven’t managed to do that yet in public…but I wouldn’t put it passed them…I’ll just have to steer away from wearing loose pants!

Mama Drama Rule #12: When you feel like your kids have embarrassed you so badly that you just might cry…remember that one day you’ll be retelling it and laughing hysterically! It will completely make it less traumatic!

Project: I'm still working on those sibling shirts! They're almost done, and I'm hoping to finish them up this weekend! Hopefully, they'll be up by Sunday...or Monday! First week of school has made this mama really far behind this week!

A Fairy Princess Party ~ It's Mama's Party Too!

We love birthday parties in our family! Well, maybe I love birthday parties the most…or at least as much as my children! I feel like my girls’ birthday parties are a celebration that they are in my life, that they are a blessing for being born, and an opportunity to celebrate everyone that has helped me raise and impact the lives of my children.

We ended up doing an enchanted fairy princess garden theme. Sounds too much for a one year olds party…but it turned out absolutely wonderful!

My goal with birthday parties is to do as many “memory makers” as possible. I think that the little things are what matter most! We were definitely on a strict budget this year, but it still managed to be special, unique and memorable. Please feel free to “steal” any ideas! I often see ideas out there and tweak them just enough to fit our needs! The concept for any mama is to work smarter not harder!

I have found that birthday celebrations are even more relaxing and special if parents of the other children don’t have to be super vigilant of their kids. So, I try to make sure that I have enough activities to keep every age of kid busy and enthusiastic. This means putting out exersaucers or extra high chairs or pack and plays and such so even the parent can talk and eat in peace. After all, I want them to enjoy the party as much as the kiddos! I also make sure that everything is childproof to ensure that they can roam freely. Also, enlist someone to help you! My mama was a great deal of help..see, we need our mamas at any age!

I love having dinner for our guests so it gives everyone an excuse to relax and enjoy a meal on us! I usually make my girls cakes, but I caved this time and bought her birthday cake. (I made her cake for her actual birthday, which relieved a small bit of the guilt!) I got a great deal! The petit fors (2 dozen), the cupcakes (I had to make the fondant frilly flower petals ~found on http://www.wilton.com/), and the three-tiered cake for under 100 dollars! It took a lot of looking and asking everyone for advice! I even got laughed at from two bakeries when I presented my “ideas” and my budget!

Top TEN Things that I loved that I will definitely do again and recommend…

1. Bought “take and toss” store brand sippy cups and made “paper wraps” with scrapbook paper with the kids’ names on them.
2. Fondant-It’s grown up play dough! I need so much more practice, but it was a blast!
3. Petit Fors-they were a hit! I just thought they were sweet and tiny like my Little Bit, but had many, many comments on them!
4. Made my girls’ outfits. I saved a lot of money going this route!
5. Had someone write down who gave what so I don’t have to remember and can send a personal thank you.
6. Had someone else take pictures for me!
7. Had a wonderful family member dress up as a fairy to “play” with the kids and “decorate” them with tattoos and face painting. So many teenagers that love kids would love to do this for just a little bit of “bribery”!
8. Had an easy buffet of food that didn’t take much fussing over, was inexpensive to serve a lot of people. (Teriyaki Chicken breasts served with pineapple rings, baked potato bar, an iceberg salad, veggie and fruit tray
9. Had easy toddler food for little ones-with all the gerber snacks, peas, carrots, diced potatoes
10. Had lots of pictures of the year & tried to include pictures of the guests with the birthday girl throughout the year. I had pictures and music on the television scrolling through (just learned that I can use my husband’s WII for this! At least it has I use that I can enjoy now!). I had pictures from her first day and every month of her first life. It was so reminiscent for me to see how much my baby had grown! Pictures are an easy and cheap decoration that can be saved and used later for photo albums and scrapbooks!
    
11. One more, I can’t help myself! I actually got all the plates, plastic ware and decorations from the DOLLAR STORE! If you shop around long enough at different stores, you will inevitably find something you’ll love…or at least can change it just enough to make it perfect…but cheap!
    
    Your children’s birthdays are just as much for you as they are from them! I would even go as far as to say we mamas deserve a present too. After all, it was us who provided them with transport into this world, and it’s us who loves them day by day. So, celebrate!

Mama Drama Rule #11: Kiss your little one and make memories that they’ll never forget! With a little bit of planning and a lot of hard work, you can be frugal and create an unforgettable day!