Michaels FREE Valentines Card Making Party for Kids

Parents in the Joplin area, Michaels craft store is hosting a FREE Valentine card making party for 3 year olds and up! Bring the kids, play with all the pretty Michaels card supplies and take home a free card for each child. They get to decorate it themselves, which should be tons of fun!

Michaels in Joplin, MO
1:00-3:00PM Sunday Feb 13, 2011

Click here for more details.

To find a Michaels store in your area go to Michaels.com, click on Locate a store, then click on Store events.

What's For Dinner?

Appetizer: Homemade egg rolls
Main event: Honey mustard roasted chicken (my dad's secret basting sauce) and potatoes au gratin (using my SIL's delicious recipe).

Mmm.. eggrolls.

sweet and tangy chicken

Creamy cheesy potatoes

Finger lickin good :) LOL

Our cutie seemed to enjoy it too...

Oh No, We're Out of.... Everything.

That was my thought as I went to cook dinner today. Yes, I know, way to plan, right?

Well, I called Hubby (he has the car) and he said, No problem, I'll leave work for a quick minute and pick up a few things. Yay! Crisis averted.
So we do the quick hello/goodbye when he brings us a few shopping bags in record time (wonderful man!). And it's not until he's on his way back to work and I'm unpacking the shopping that I realize something.
Some men have particular ideas about what 'a few things' are.
See, when I see the pantry empty and say I'll get a few things, I mean the essentials (in my head): some fruit/veggies, milk, eggs, rice and meat & some kind of munchable like cheerios for Baby Boy's two handled snack cup. That will get us by until we have time for a detailed shopping trip. Here's what I found myself staring at after stripping off the shopping bags:

Why yes, that's a big box of mac and cheese.
And pork chops.
It made me smile! Hey, we've got food :)

Alrighty then.

Did you catch that part about the car? Yay for transportation! We've recently been blessed by a family member with a car! We're so thankful for the wonderful friends who took time out to take me and Baby Boy to stores. They are so awesome! But it's good to have our own car once again. It's one that I can't drive yet (this girl needs some serious skills before attempting a 5 shift)  but now my sweet man doesn't have to worry about how the weather will affect his motorcycle ride to work.

I hope you have a beautiful, fun filled weekend!

Baby Wearing

After talking with a friend the other day I realized just how much baby wearing has become a part of my life. I thought I'd share.

Since Baby Boy was born, Hubby and I have been learning about attachment parenting and finding that it's definitely more our style. We're both comfortable with the idea of keeping our children close and secure with baby wearing.

The Samoan culture I grew up in was definitely pro attachment parenting, although without the convenience of wraps and slings. From infants to about 4 years in some cases, a child is held almost constantly and there are no negative affects that I saw or experienced. It actually seems to help young children feel safer and confident in themselves once they are too old to be carried. Almost everyone in Samoa practices attachment parenting and I was an attached child (if that's even a term) although I never knew the official terms. It is simply the way most Samoan children are raised. My sweet mom made a sling for me out of some spare fabric (hand sewn!) when Baby Boy was born, and little did I know that it would spark an active interest in me to apply attachment parenting.


Spring 2008.
Going to my very first check up after having Baby Boy. That's the sling my mom made! Isn't it lovely?

In the elevator at the doctor's office. I loved that sling, and constantly found ways to show off that I could get things done and still hold my baby.
Yes, yes, I'm strange. But you already knew that.

Winter 2009
Practicing how to wrap for an overseas trek. Baby Boy was a lap child and having him safely wrapped in front of me was such a huge relief during all the plane rides.

This is the wrong way to wear a wrap! Wearing it incorrectly had my back aching in less than 5 minutes and I had to take it off pronto. We didn't go anywhere, I was practicing (badly).

The striped wrap is a jersey/t-shirt like fabric I found on the WalMart clearance rack. I was so excited! I had been stalking keeping an eye on the fabric clearance for material with the right amount of give.

Summer 2010.
The photos below were taken just the other night as we headed out for a walk.
We like to take walks, especially in the evening. Baby Boy loves running around and I like that he has a healthy way to burn off the last of his energy before bed.

This day, though, Baby Boy had spent a hot day outdoors and had gotten slightly overheated. The entire afternoon I was giving him sippy cup after sippy cup of fluids to rehydrate my sluggish boy. When it was time for our walk, I hesitated, thinking, what's the point of letting him sweat out all the water that had just been replaced in his system?

I was about to cancel our walk when Baby Boy tiredly tugged me over to the linen closet where his wrap is kept. I was surprised he remembered it. We hadn't used the wrap for a while. 

What a smart little guy, I thought. Now we didn't have to give up our walk, and I didn't have to lug both him and the stroller up and down the stairs. 

Photos were a last minute decision so forgive the angles. Click on images for a larger view.

Same wrap that we took on our overseas trip.

This tibetan carry is my favorite at the moment. Baby Boy is nearly 40 pounds and this particular style of wrapping the fabric evenly distributes his weight and supports both his back and mine, so there is no strain, even while taking the stairs. He was quite comfortable, waving and chatting to everyone we passed, while taking swigs of his juice.

I'm working on teaching myself to sew and hopefully will be confident enough to make myself a fabric carrier when we have another child. I'd love to try them all!

Where to find information:
There are so many wonderful sources out there for homemade wraps/carriers! Etsy.com is full of people selling them, as is blogger. Thebabywearer.com is also a great resource for someone curious about free patterns to make their own carrier. I know I'll be using a lot of suggestions from there to form my own machine sewn wrap. Wrapyourbaby.com and youtube.com have been a huge help for me with their free videos and photo tutorials on tying different carries. I recently stumbled on Cuddle Wraps and am in the process of ordering one for my sister (I'm going to be an aunt again! Yay!) through amazingly helpful Christina who makes them. I just love the fact that attachment parenting is 'catching on', not just because it makes it easier to buy well made wraps and such, but also because I think attached kiddos are so happy! Not that other children aren't, but I love seeing the security children express when raised the attached way. There I go, making up my own terms again, but by now you understand what I'm saying. Hubby and I love it! And are excited to continue raising our family this way for many more beautiful years to come.

I joke about being a baby wearing grandparent someday, but I'm totally serious. If my grown children don't mind my toting my grandkids around in a baby wrap on my day to babysit, I will rock that fabric swathed around me! If it doesn't suit my children's style, I won't sweat it, just pull out the stroller and off we go to spend some grandparent/grandchild quality time. The thing is, it's just a preference. Other people may prefer not to participate in attachment parenting, but it doesn't mean either preference is wrong. As long as children are happy and well cared for, that's all that matters.

What things have you learned about raising your family that you've unexpectedly come to love?

Note: I don't receive any type of compensation from the above mentioned sites. I'm simply sharing the resources I've found personally helpful. Enjoy!

Taco Beef and Rice

Technically, it's Leftover Night and I'm not supposed to cook, but I (technically) took last night off from cooking. So, because Hubby was a good sport and made his own dinner after a long day of work, I'm whipping up a quick and easy meal of ground beef and rice. Well, hey, I figured he was basically thrown for a loop since he can expect to cook for himself on Thursdays and not Wednesdays, but he handled it manfully. I can make brown gravy, but wanted to do something a little different. I saw that Homemade Mamas posted this recipe for homemade taco seasoning and thought Yes! That's dinner! Hubby loves Mexican food so this is especially for my wonderful man! I'm so interested in homemade spice mixes after my recent foray with an allspice substitute.
What are you having for dinner?

Spa Night: Brightening Mask

Here I am with my mom, who was such an amazing good sport during her recent visit. She got a crash course in homemade relaxation! It was tons of fun and we got amazing results. I've used the mask pictured here before, but never posted the recipe, so here it is, a homemade brightening mask.

Brightening Mask

-1/4 cup plain yogurt (ooh, homemade yogurt comes in handy!)

-2 Tbs honey

-1/2 tsp turmeric

-flour

STEP 1: In a small bowl, combine yogurt, honey and turmeric until well combined.

STEP 2: Add a teaspoon of flour at a time, stirring after each, to form a thick spreadable paste. Think facial masks you buy in the store and go for that consistency, like thick mayonnaise.

STEP 3: Apply evenly over freshly washed face, massaging into skin. Let dry for 10-15 minutes as flour tightens the mask.

STEP 4: When dry, remove the mask by scrubbing with a warm, moist washcloth. This is an extra polishing step, removing dead skin cells. Rinse well and apply your favorite toner and a gentle moisturizer. 

Enjoy your brightened, smooth as silk skin!

FUN FACTS:

-The use of turmeric in facial masks has shown improvement in psoriasis and inflammatory skin conditions, evening out skin tone and promoting healing of open blemishes. Awesome, right? And there are a whole world of amazing things it does for your body when used regularly in cooking.

-Honey is one of my favorite at home antibacterials and skin softening agents!

-Yogurt is full of healthy bacteria and is another gentle softener.

-Use this mask once a week for gradual, brightening results. 

Don't forget to take time for yourself this week! Here's hoping you're able to grab a relaxing moment. Happy pampering!

Enjoying My Wonderful Guests

I've been wonderfully busy with family that have come to visit! I'm having a marvelous time and Baby Boy is eating up the attention, loving every minute of it. So, forgive the lack of posting, but I'm off relaxing in the pool and enjoying lovely foot massages, all very much appreciated after the previous weeks of detail cleaning. The weather here is gorgeous! Tomorrow's Spa Night, so don't forget to take the time to pamper yourself this week. You will be much happier for it! Later then :)

Cotham's

Our Saturday trek to Cotham's in Scott, AR. This little place has been featured on the Food Network and Travel Channel for it's Hubcap Burger, a ridiculously huge beef burger served with all the fixings.

As Hubby so lovingly commented last night on skype, Baby Boy and I are losing our tans. Can't wait to get back to the swimming pool and be a little lazy after these crazy weeks.

Bro and the infamous Hubcap Burger.

It was smaller than on the TV shows, which was a little of a disappointment for my photo. You can order it with up to 4 patties.

A few details that made up the relaxed, old timey general store ambiance.

Tiny wicker/wire baskets for sweeteners...

Gingham curtains framed with a plastic pine Christmas garland and Christmas lights...

And tons of quaint antique fixtures like this real telephone on the walls....

Overall, a very enjoyable visit :)

I Love My Daddy

Presented this to Hubby on Father's Day and didn't get around to posting it here.

A virtual photo card from Baby Boy to his Dad:

I love my daddy.

I love my daddy because he takes me on new adventures!

Daddy holds my hand when I'm a little afraid....

And to keep me safe when we're out for a walk.

I love my daddy.

I love spending time with my daddy.

Whether it's just to be together......

Or to talk about our day.

Daddy's always ready to spend time hanging out...

Or help me read my special wishes that come in the mail....

And even play the funny face game.

My daddy gives the biggest and warmest hugs!

But mostly, I love my daddy..... because he's Daddy.

And I'm his little boy.

Happy Father's Day, Daddy! Mama and I love and miss you!

Wishing a Happy (belated) Father's Day to all the wonderful daddies out there! Especially the original: Mama's dad and Baby Boy's Papa. Alofa atu....

Early Bird Gets the Pillow

Baby Boy climbs out of his crib and comes sneaking into my room every morning. In the wee small hours, in virtual dark, he navigates his way around various packing materials, down the cold hallway, past the laundry room and into the master bedroom. All while half asleep. My morning snuggler arrives as early as 6 AM some days, scooching under the covers and inadvertently waking me by trying to fit his shaggy head onto my pillow. I know I will probably regret letting him do this for 3 weeks, but I can't help it. I love the gentle surprise of my baby boy's kiss on my cheek, his sleep-slurred little voice whispering "Night night, Mama", pulling my arm over him as he curls himself into a soft ball and nestles onto my pillow's corner. I smile softly, not quite awake myself, watching as he almost instantly falls back asleep. I close my eyes and listen to his little snores, hoping for a bit more sleep before my alarm rings. Those are the good mornings. The mornings rosy colored memories are made of. In reality, most mornings, Baby Boy arrives wide awake and (non too gently) demanding food or drink. "Mama! Ache up, Mama! Peas ache up, Mama! I eat! I hunry. Peas!". Needless to say, I'm not too fond of growth spurts right now, but I'll take all the slow snuggly mornings I can get.

Weekend Brekkie: All Stirred Up Pancakes

Pancakes are fun to make when you have a cheerful little helper to mix the batter!

He stirred the entire time. Haha! I told Baby Boy he could stop and he said "No stop. I cookin."

Well-stirred pancakes sizzling away :)

Mmmm..... serve hot with jelly or butter for a weekend treat.

Aaahhh.... sweet rewards.

Yay! It's Saturday! We're heading out to have some fun (away from the house!). Enjoy your family time!

Project List

So, I've had this list of projects for a while, but have only now decided to post them here on the blog sidebar. I have a few completed and will post photos of those projects as the days go by. I'll be linking the items in the list to their respective posts as I get them done. I actually have one to post today. Yay! Here's to learning and bettering myself, my home and family throughout 2010!

Peaceful Space Inspiration

Now that I am no longer surrounded by the clutter that comes with moving from a house to a little apartment, I can focus on making our rooms conducive to relaxing. It's going to take lots of planning and a little ingenuity, but I'm excited about it! I'm hoping to have at least the beginning of projects to show for it when next week rolls around. Here's a little peek, though:

Living room inspiration: Peacock color palette with Polynesian patterns.

I have a vague idea of how to implement this, and I really hope it all comes together! I'm nervous about it though because everything might not work as a whole, but oh well. There's only one way to find out, right?

Tapa designs. I love the traditional designs of my culture, but I'd like to create my personal interpretation of them using traditional shapes and one of my favorite palettes: peacock colors.

Guest bathroom inspiration: Maroon powder room. Elegant and feminine. I'm thinking luxury and velvet like these drapes below. The femininity will hopefully be balanced with the deep strong maroon color. That's what I want, anyway. We shall see what we can come up with.

The cottage look above isn't me, but I adore the idea of personalizing the area around the mirror by draping some fabric. It adds a feminine touch too, I think. I don't know how I would do this, but I love it.

Master bedroom inspiration: Resort Spa. I imagine teal like the ocean and tan like the South Pacific sand; a peaceful, light space with soft colors of the ocean incorporated throughout the room. I want to feel like I'm on a getaway at a fabulous, relaxing spa resort while staying away from nautical or overdone seashell themes.

I love the thought of sheer curtains at every corner of the bed. So luxurious and resort-ish, isn't it? And it also makes me think of the sea breeze playing with the sheer fabric and the tropical sunlight shining through. We don't own a canopy or four poster bed, but I would like to use this somehow.

The combination of bamboo runner and candles is so lovely and relaxing.

These baskets remind me of honey colored wood that I saw everywhere on the island where I grew up. The gorgeous natural polished wood was crafted into supporting pillars in family meeting houses, or traditional tiny wooden benches that were used as pillows by the older generations of islanders. It just makes me think of home.

Master bath inspiration: Spa massage room. 

I see bamboo, tropical flowers and aromatherapy. 

I doubt I'll be able to afford a bamboo piece like this, let alone have the space to put it up in our little bathroom, but the clean lines and beautiful bamboo wood grain is inspiring. And I do need some sort of storage. Right now the only place to put things is in the double cabinet beneath the small sink.

Our master bath suffers from lack of towel storage as well. I like this idea...maybe not in a basket, though.

This, as well as the other candle/bamboo runner photo in the bedroom inspiration is the sense of calm and pampering and tropics that I would like to have in the bed and bathroom.

Whew! I love having all this together so I'll have a visual reference as I work on adding these touches to each room. Our toddler's room is the only one that is on track with it's theme, which is Learning Playroom. It definitely needs tweaking, but it has everything he needs, unlike the rest of the rooms. So, I decided to focus on slowly bringing the rest of the apartment along before I do anymore to the nursery. After all, the adult spaces need to be inviting too! We are not allowed to paint, which makes it even harder to add personality on a budget. At least I can look back at this and refocus once I get going. It's easy to get lost in a redesign, no matter how small it is, but now I'll have my inspiration post to help me get back on track. Don't forget to check out tonight's Spa Night post on a homemade acne spot treatment!