Spectacle.

June 18, 2013

Today while my 3 year old Bitzy was jamming to the music and story time at our AWESOME library, my 2 year old Brother was having a 100% epic meltdown as I was nursing my 4 month old Nonny in the Ergo carrier. During this “event” I noticed a few things as I was literally holding Brothers mouth closed and loudly whispering in his ear to “RELAX” while trying to hush the baby who was also crying.

Here are my observations that I noted through the sweat drops that were literally pouring down my face:

1. Mamas with one child stared at me like I was a crazy, sweaty, insane, mean mommy who could not control her children.
2. Mamas with two children stared at me with a bit of pity but still looked at me like I was insane and who could not control her children.
3. Mamas with three children stared at me with a “Carry On, Warrior” fist bump.
4. Mamas with four of children or more didn’t even notice.

And yet again, I am encouraged to always, always, always help, encourage and LOVE mommies of all children and give them a solid high five no matter what.

This Mama stuff is not for the weak.

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By Molly 2 Comments » Categories: bitzy, brother, Confessions., Crazycakes, Family., homemaking, Little Stories, Nonny, Positivity, Random.

Save {part 9}.

June 13, 2013

Friends, I have the couponing fire again. It was stagnant as I was in pregnancy misery (have I mentioned how much a H-A-T-E being pregnant? Well, I do).

Now, I’m back in the game and it feels oh so good.

I really, really, really want you guys to do this. Like, really. I find it startling how few people take advantage of The Walmarts price matching policy. It’s like free money people. Do you get that? All you do is go to a register, give them your item and give them the price match. According to the price matching policy you DO NOT have to show the ad. Granted, if it’s a crazy amount off (more than 50%), they may ask to see the ad, but most matches will be a dollar or two off and they won’t flinch to give you the price match.

The matches I use are in the paper, I just learn about them from online. For example, Annie’s Organic Mac and Cheese is $1 from Kroger so I say “$1 Price Match from Kroger.” Everything you match has to be in your area. Publix always has awesome prices, but  I can’t match because we don’t have one. Make sense?

I know that many of you (or most if we’re honest), hate The Walmart. I will admit that it has a few flaws, but overall with this policy you honestly just can’t find a better deal on groceries.

Let me give you the scoop on my trip a few weeks ago. Hopefully it will inspire you!

Strawberries: Normal price: $2.48lb Price Match: $1.00lb

Blueberries: Normal price: $2.98lb Price Match: $1.49lb

Red Grapes: Normal price: $1.98lb Price Match: $.99lb

12 Almay Deodorant: $2.24 (no match)

3 Covergirl Eyeshadow: $3.14 (no match)

Hair Elastics: $2.17 (no match)

Colgate Kid Toothbrush: Normal price: $2.28 Price Match: $1.00

Natural Peanut Butter: $2.38 (no match)

4 packages Huggies Wipes: $1.97 (no match)

Bananas: Normal price: $.52lb Price Match: $.25lb

Gala Apples: Normal price: $3.19lb Price Match: $.99lb

2 Bags of Lettuce: Normal price: $2.24 Price Match: $1.00 per bag

Hellmans Lite Mayo: Normal price: $2.98 Price Match: $1.98

2 Secret Deodorant: $2.47 (no match)

Suave Kids Shampoo: Normal price: $2.24 Price Match: $1.00

11 Pounds of Amish Farms All Natural, No Hormone Chicken Tenders: Normal price: $2.48lb Price Match: $1.48lb

Before Price Matching and coupons these groceries would have cost $123.18. 

After price matching the total was $92.87.

So, just by matching I saved $30.31. Then with my awesome coupons my total before tax was….wait for it….

$20.23!

That’s right! All of the non-produce/meat items were FREE, plus I had an overage on many of them to help pay for the other items.

Isn’t that nuts? 

All this can be yours with planning and  a wee bit of work!

You CAN do this!

 

 

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By Molly 0 Comments » Categories: Family., homemaking, Little Savings, Little Stories, money, Random.

More?

June 13, 2013

One question that we’ve been getting a lot of these days is “Are you guys done having kids?”

This is a toughy.

We just don’t know.

Maybe? Probably? Possibly?

Again, we just don’t know. 

There are days that we think that we are for sure done. And others that we’re not so sure.

The other night was particuarly rough with Nonny waking up like several times to nurse, Bitzy had 2 different accidents in her bed and Brother was partying in his room at 3:00am like it was 1999.

Zach said at 4:20am, “If I ever mention having another kid punch me in the face.” (That is a direct quote).

But then there are magical days where everyone is rested, happy and awesome in general and we think, “Hmmm…one more would really be great.”

So this morning I was reading to all three of my sweethearts in our favorite “big white chair” and there were smiles all around. We were laughing, snuggling and having so much fun.

I said, “Oh guys, I just love you all so much. Do you know that? Do you know how much Mama loves you?”

Brother: “DIS MUCH, TO VA OON AH BATCH!”

Bitzy: “OH MAMA! I LOVE YOU TOO WITH MY WHOLE HEART!”

Nonny: “MMMMM, OOOOOO, AAAAA!”

Bitzy: “YA KNOW MAMA, I THINK WE NEED ONE MORE BABY. MAYBE A LITTLE BOY BABY SO THAT BROTHER WON’T BE LONELY.”

Me: Oh really, does that sound good?

Bitzy: YEAH, ACTUALLY I THINK TWINS SOUND THE BEST. YUP, TWINS FOR SURE! I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE TWO TINY BABIES SOMEDAY!”

Me: Oh my! Don’t you think that would be a lot of work?

Bitzy: NO MAMA. DON’T WORRY, I’M THREE AND I’LL TAKE CARE OF THEM. YOU DON’T WORRY ABOUT IT. OKAY MAMA? DON’T YOU WORRY ABOUT A THING SWEETIE PIE DELICIOUS. I’LL BE THE BEST BIG SISTER EVER! YOU CAN JUST RELAX. ACTUALLY, YOU TAKE CARE OF BROTHER BECAUSE HE’S A WILD CHILD AND I’LL TAKE CARE OF THE BABIES. SOUND LIKE A PLAN STAN?”

Me: Well in that case! Bring on the babies!

Have a great day friends!

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By Molly 0 Comments » Categories: bitzy, brother, Family., homemaking, Little Stories, Random.

Save {part 8}.

June 11, 2013

Let’s talk about couponing, shall we?

With the pregnancy and birth of my sweet little Nonny I have changed my approach to couponing and price matching, maybe this will help you guys too.

You see, before, I would comb through the Sunday paper every week and write down all the best deals, clip all the coupons, organize them and then go for one big couponing trip once a week.

With this method I built a large stockpile that basically fed us throughout my pregnancy and for the last few months. I just cannot even tell you what a blessing having a good stockpile is. There are no last minute trips to the store, or emergency trips for diapers, wipes, shampoo, soap, etc. It’s so nice to have all of that neatly organized in the basement.

HA. Who are we kidding? Neatly organized is VERY STRONG, but still, it’s there if I need it.

Anyway, throughout pregnancy I relied on price matching for meat, fruit and veggies. I did very little couponing.

Now that baby Nonny is 3 months old and I’m settling into this Mama to 3 tiny people thing, I’m getting back into my couponing groove. It just looks very different now.

Here’s the way I’m working it.

Every week I go to a few different websites to see the deals (I’ll post the sites that I use at the end of the post). I’m most interested in price matching fruit, veggies and meat.

After I have my list of matches, I go to the “freebie” or “under $1 section” and see what great deals they have.

So last week as I was looking and there was a $4 off any Almay cosmetic coupon. Turns out that Almay considers deodorant a cosmetic. Therefore the $2.24 deodorant has a $1.76 overage on each one with the coupon. Upon reading this I immediately went to ebay and purchased 40 coupons for around $8.00.

That means that when I purchase 40 deodorants I will receive $70.40 in FREE MONEY, plus I’ll have 40 Almay deodorants. With the overage I will buy meat. However, if I wanted the cash they would give it to me. Do you get that? They could give me 40 FREE deodorants and $70.40 for taking it out of the store.

This, my friends, is the power of the coupon.

However, I would never have known this information had it not been for the couponing blogs that I read.

So basically what I’m doing nowadays is price matching for produce and meat and only couponing for things that we don’t have a stock pile for and freebies.

I spend about an hour looking at the websites and ordering coupons and about an hour at the store.

Here’s what I got after planning and shopping for 2 hours.

3 Loaves of Whole Wheat White Bunny Bread: Price Matched at $1.00 piece

2 Pounds of Strawberries: Price Matched at $.99 apiece

2 Cartons of Blueberries: Price Matched at $1.49 apiece

2 Cantaloupes: Price Matched at $1.00 apiece

Bananas: Price Matched at $.29 per pound

15 Softsoap Hand Soaps: Price Matched at $.97 apiece

20 Bags of Steamfresh Veggies: Price Matched at $1.00 apiece

4 Bags of Red and Green Grapes: Price Matched at $.97 per pound

4 Bags of Mixed Green Lettuce: Price Matched at $1.00 apiece

10 Boxes of Annies Organic Mac & Cheese: Price Matched at $1.00 apiece

4 Pounds of Boneless Pork Chops: Price Matched at $1.97lb.

20 Bottles of Colgate Mouthwash: Price Matched at $1.99 apiece.

With coupons and price matching I got much of these items FOR FREE and paid only $42.00!

This is without all the extensive work and time it takes to go through the paper and coupon, remember.

You can do this friends. You are a crazy person if you’re paying full price for groceries!!!! CRAZY. 

Just give it a shot. You will not be disappointed!

PS: I use The Krazy Coupon Lady and I Heart The Mart. 

PPS: I know all of you OCD people are going crazy because my mouthwashes were not in a perfect row for the picture. You know who you are! 

 

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By Molly 5 Comments » Categories: homemaking, Little Savings, Little Stories, money, Random.

Friends.

June 11, 2013

 

Bitzy was only 9 months old when I became pregnant with Brother. That’s right. I had just lost my last few pounds of baby weight and I was feeling more like myself.

My Bitzy was sleeping through the night, I had figured out nursing, I was really feeling very comfortable with our sweet little family of three.

And then, those double lines hit yet again.

I was actually in a Target bathroom when I found out Brother was in my belly.

Classy, I know.

At the time, I really didn’t get what having babies only 18.5 months apart would mean. I didn’t understand the stress, messiness, and pure JOY it would be to watch them grow and become best friends.

All I knew in that Target bathroom was that I would get to have another baby. I would get to love and cherish another tiny little person. I was overjoyed to say the least…surprised yes, but still so excited.

And then Brother was born. My sweet, laidback, precious son.

At first it was tricky and very stressful if we’re going to be honest. But little by little, we worked together and got the hang of it.

And it’s not always easy. Now that they are 2 and 3, there’s lots and lots of fighting, arguing, hitting, wrestling, yelling and crying.

But there’s lotsa love too.

My babies are crazy over one another.

In fact, this afternoon my little Brother Bear was having a very difficult time obeying and Bitzy turned into a little Mama. It was really the first time that I’ve seen her in a “Big Sister” role. She took him by the arm and said, “You are not obeying Mommy. Don’t you know you’re going to get a consquence? You need to listen and stop being so wiggly woggliy!”

Then he replies, “O-TAY SISSY. SAWWRY MAMA. I GIVE YOU.”

She’s like a little miracle worker with him.

Later when he was in time-out (are you noticing a theme here with sweet Brother Bear?), she said, “I MISS MY BEST FRIEND. I DON’T LIKE PLAYING WITHOUT HIM. HE MAKES EVERYTHING SO MUCH FUN.”

I mean seriously people. Is that the sweetest thing ever?

I guess the best things in life are sometimes really hard and stressful…but then they give us the biggest rewards.

Hopefully when little Nonny is old enough to play they will all be in love.

Happy Tuesday Friends!

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By Molly 1 Comment » Categories: bitzy, brother, Family., Little Stories, Nonny, Positivity, Random.

UppedTheAnte.

May 31, 2013

As a Mama to 3 little ones I’ve seen and experienced a lot of really gross stuff.

Like, really gross stuff.

But today I think my tiny baby Nonny upped the ante.

We were at gymnastics watching Bitzy when my Nonny got super fussy. I knew she was hungry so as I was talking to a daddy who was beside me I attempted to feed her with a blanket over us, which means I’m awkwardly trying to chat while trying to not expose my entire breast to a sort-of stranger.

As I was feeding her I felt her tummy rumble and the next thing I know there is baby poop (breastfed poppy, think yellow mustard), all over my hands, pants, and as if this wasn’t gross enough, it began dripping on my feet and into my flip flops.

Yes, I’m serious. This actually did happen.

This is also about the time that class was dismissed (of course). I asked the dad that I had been talking with to ask Bitzy to come upstairs to me.

The problem is that my Bitzy has quite an active gag reflex.

I got a blanket on the floor to try and change Nonny I realized that I have 89 packs of wipes in the van but ZERO packs in the actual diaper bag. I mean, why should I?

So, luckily I had to blankets with me. I used them to clean us up. And by some miracle of Jesus I did actually have another outfit for her. Call me prepared.

Meanwhile Bitzy is standing over me coughing her brains out and gagging. In between gags she would say, “CAN (gag) WE (gag) BOUNCE AT THE (gag) BOUNCY HOUSE (gag)?”

I wasn’t sure how to accurately express to her how absolutely impossible it would be for me to go to the bouncy house with BABY POOP BETWEEN MY TOES. So I said, “No baby, let’s just go to Lolly’s and get Brother, OK?”

Thank Jesus she obeyed and didn’t push me.

After an insane morning with lotsa crying from Brother and then the poopy debacle, I wasn’t in a great place to argue.

But alas, just when I think I have reached my limit, they push me yet again.

When we left Lolly’s to go home to nap, about 10 minutes away, both Nonny and Brother were loudly crying.

As to not be drowned out Bitzy starts screaming, “CAN’T WE ALL JUST BE STILL FOR A MINUTE! I NEED TO LISTEN TO MY MUSIC FOR MY BALLET RECITAL AT THE ROYAL BALL WITH PRINCE CHARMING! YOU ALL NEED TO OBEY ME!”

Happy place, happy place, happy place. 

When we got home I immediately put Nonny to sleep and then easily put down my wacky son who has been possessed this week. His new favorite thing is biting. So there’s that.

Then it was time for Bitzy. She’s always the hardest and most time consuming to get down for a nap.

But today, I think she could see the doneness in my eyes.

She went right to sleep without a fight.

Finally, this dirty, poopy Mama got a shower and it never felt so good.

I’m in the trenches friends and somedays it’s really, really stinky down here. 

Tell me that I’m not alone. Pretty please. Or as Brother would say, “PEETTY PEAS WIT SWUGAR ON TAP?”

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By Molly 5 Comments » Categories: bitzy, brother, homemaking, Little Stories, Random.

WildChild.

May 30, 2013

 

This is my baby REALLY enjoying his 2nd birthday ice cream sundae a few days ago! 

I think we have well established that I love my babies. Right? I mean, I love them more than anything in the world. Really, I do. Please don’t let my screaming, “Brother, come back here!” Or, “OK, TIME OUT!” fool you. I’m sure my neighbors think I’m a mean Mommy because my baby boy apparently goes deaf every time he enters the out of doors.

That’s right. I’ve got a runner.

Let me back up.

It all began innocently enough when I went into Brothers room one bright sunny morning. I was chipper and ready for a super fun day. When I entered his room he was sitting on top of his changing table reading books like it was the most normal place in the world to sit.

After I grabbed him, held him and rocked him because I was so freaked out that my baby could have fallen and gotten hurt I saw the twinkle in his eye.

You boy moms, you know the twinkle that I speak of.

It’s like the Pokey Little Puppy feeling frisky. I just had a feeling that my very own little one was going to have a Pokey Little Puppy kind of day.

Before breakfast we had normal amounts of meltdowns, not sharing, being OBSESSED with exploring the bathroom (which absolutely drives me nuts), ya know, normal stuff.

Then after breakfast we cleaned up and geared up to visit my friend who just had a baby a few weeks ago.

I was feeling great about my mothering as I had explained why we were delivering food and how Jesus wants us to love others.

Pride always comes before the fall ya know. 

After I loaded up the car with the food, bags, snacks, water, etc., I opened the van door and told Bitzy and Brother to get in their seat while baby Nonny and I went to let out the dogs. I was gone approximately one minute. When I got back to the van I was greeted by a little boy holding a pumpkin muffin in each hand and several other muffins that had been tasted and stepped on.

I am not proud of what happened next.

I basically freaked out.

Not in a yelling kind of way. More like a huffing, puffing and completely frustrated kind of way.

I mean, there was 9 (3 were saved) pumpkin muffins smashed ALL OVER MY VAN. I mean, all over. Like the steering wheel, the seats, his car seat, his shoes, his shorts, the diaper bag. It was everywhere.

For one thing I was really sad that I had made these muffins for my friend and now they were ruined, but also, the mess. The completely yucky mess that was all over my car. Did I mention is was ALL OVER? Well, it was.

I honestly thought that I was going to cry. Baby Nonny was screaming, the mess was overwhelming and I was pouring sweat.

An ironic twist in this little story is I had a book sitting in the seat entitled, “Loving the Little Years” that is now completely smeared and covered with Pumpkin Muffins. Ha. Irony at it’s best.

After it was all clean and I was a sweaty wreck I told them I was sorry for being so upset and asked their forgiveness.

So at this point, everyone is okay. We’re shaken, but still intact.

Then, I take my friend her food and we had a visit. The kiddos played and we had a great time. My baby boy still had the fleck of crazy in his eyes, but he did great at her house. Little did I know he was gearing up for the great escape.

After we had lunch and were heading home I knew that all three of my little miracles were exhausted. They are quite obvious about it with Nonny screaming her brains out, Brother whining and Bitzy zoning out. So when we pulled into our garage Bitzy says “I’M GONNA PEE PEE IN MY PANTIES! I HAVE TO RUN FOR IT!” So, I let her out and she runs into the potty. Then, get out Brother and Nonny.

Normally when we pull into the garage I immediately shut the garage door behind us so Brother doesn’t run out. But today I didn’t because I needed to grab the mail. So, when I got them out I asked Brother if he wanted to get the mail with me. He enthusiastically said, “YES MAMA. WE GET MAIL. IT FUN!” After we got the mail and began walking into our house he started running into the neighbors yard.

He’s done this many times. It’s not his first transgression. You see, the neighbors have a trampoline. Which, as you may know, is like the holy grail for a newly 2 year old boy. So he sprinted, straight into their yard, climbed up into the trampoline and started jumping.

Just to recap, Bitzy is inside going potty and I’m holding my 3 month old while my baby boy has ran away from me and is jumping on my neighbors trampoline.

Remember that whole frisky thing?

So I do what any other tired Mama would do, I yelled, “Brother, do you want to go to time-out? Come here right now?” in my most stern Mama voice.

Hahahahahahaha! Are you kidding me? He was in trampoline bliss, he wasn’t biting. Plus, I was way up on my driveway and he was 300 feet away jumping for his life.

Finally, I just called Zach because when I have a major disciple problem, it’s his department. I said, “Brother, your Daddy is on the phone and you’re in big trouble. You better get down!” Shockingly, he did! It was a miracle. Granted, he immediately laid in the grass thrashing and crying, but still, at least he was out. I mean, come on people, it’s not like I’m going to climb up in there while holding a tiny baby. I’m not that crazy.

While he did get down, he wasn’t moving. He pulled one of those limp body tantrums. You know the ones I speak of. So again, mother of the year over here just drug him. That’s right. With my tiny baby in my left arm (football hold), I literally drug my 35 pound son up the hill with him saying “THIS FUN!” the entire time.

When we got in the house I put him in time out and all the sudden it wasn’t so fun anymore. Interesting how that works.

Then it was time for a glorious nap, because let’s face, I was on the brink.

He slept for almost four hours today, so clearly the kid was exhausted which equals acting crazy.

When I went to get him from nap, he was sitting in the middle drawer of his changing table. That’s right folks. Perfectly normal, right?

My dilemma here is that I really don’t want to squash the “boy-ness” of him. I want him to be all boy, to be wild and wonderful and funny and silly. I really do. It’s just the apparent loss of hearing that he encounters when I say something that he doesn’t want to hear that really gets me.

All of you “boy moms” with multiple sons really have my respect. I can’t imagine having more of him.

However, the other side is the sweetness. Ah, the child slays me.  He’s gotta be the sweetest little thing ever. After all of his transgressions today he pats me on the cheek and says, “I SOWWRY MOMMY! I GIVE YOU!” How could I possibly resist him?!

Love my baby boy always and forever….even when he’s frisky.

 

 

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By Molly 6 Comments » Categories: brother, Family., Little Stories, Random.

Settle.

May 24, 2013

My peeps. Precious right? 

I read a hand full of blogs every day. I find blogs to be so intriguing, to peer into someones world. I read a couple of hippy blogs, because I’m part hippy ya know, with my babywearing, breastfeeding, baby food making self. On the other hand, a read a few Jesus lovin’ blogs and then a few basic “life” blogs.

But of course, I have some favorites. My most favorite ever is a blog by Jen Hatmaker. She’s delightful, wise and very funny. She loves Jesus in a way that I truly admire. Everyone, everywhere should read and love this blog.

Another favorite is Momastary. While I don’t agree with much of her theology, she loves Jesus and so do I, so the rest is a whole lotta details. And she’s funny. Very, very funny.

There are more that I love, but sometimes, Mommy Blogs of all shapes and sizes strike a cord within my mommy heart.

You see, as I have said many times, I truly believe that I was created to care, teach and love my children. When my babies leave the nest, if I end up being a writer, singer, songwriter, artist, teacher, whatever it is, I still believe that my purpose in life is to raise kind, wise, holy, and caring children. And that’s enough for me. In fact, this will be no small feat. I am humbled by the opportunity.

And I get that it’s overwhelming.

SO OVERWHELMING.

Just the laundry alone is shocking.

Not to mention the dusting, vacuuming. sweeping, mopping..and toilets. So.Many.Toilets.

And the organizing. Forget about it. Organizing at this point in my life is a sham. There’s just no way. I’m trying to forgive myself for this. I mean, lets face it, I’m not a natural organizer, it is very difficult for me. NOTE: Organization shouldn’t be confused with cleaning or tidiness. Many people have sad, “You’re so organized, look at your clean house.” No, no my peeps. To be clean, is not to be organized.

I have a deep need inside my soul for this house to be clean. Not spotless or perfect, but clean. I don’t clean while my littles are awake so there is a very small window of time for me to do my bidding. I do this more for my mental health than anything if we’re honest with ourselves. I just can’t handle living in a messy/dirty house.

Disorgnaized, yes. But dirty, oh no, no, no.

So, I do have that going for me.

But I digress.

(Can you tell that I’m completely overwhelmed with cleaning? Well, I am).

Back to my point.

Raising children is not for the weak of heart. To be honest, the past year has been very challenging for me personally. Learning how to parent toddlers who are very strong willed, argumentative, creative, wild and hilarious has been tough. We’ve had many more good days, than bad days, but I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you that there have been nights where I tell Zach that I truly feel like I didn’t give them my best that day. Days where I honest to goodness thought if they told me “no” one more time I may very well lose it. But the bad days propel me to do better the next day.

I refuse to let bad days become our normal.

I guess what I’m trying to say is it seems that the whole wide world is settling. Many mommies I know and love are absolutely delightful and precious in a million ways, but I wonder if many of us are following the current trend of “good enough.”

Now don’t get me wrong. The whole “perfect mother” nonsense is ridiculous. All these senseless mommy wars about whats best for kids is just kind of old. Public school? Great. Homeschool? Awesome. Breast Milk? Wonderful. Formula? Terrific. It just makes me kind of tired when mommies fight each other over silly issues. If I’ve said it once, I’ll says it again, “I DON’T CARE WHAT YOU DO WITH YOUR CHILDREN. PLEASE DO NOT BEAT THEM, BUT HONESTLY I WILL NOT JUDGE YOU  ABOUT ANYTHING – EVER, BECAUSE I’VE NEVER WALKED IN YOUR SHOES!”

What I’m concerned about is believing the lie that we can settle for less. While perfectionism is silly, we can at least strive to be the best we can be. I’ll be the first to admit that some days I fail terribly in every single area and sometimes good is enough. But that’s not the goal.

That’s not my heartbeat. I don’t want to settle for less than the absolute best I can be for my babies.

When Oprah began the movement years ago to focus on ourselves and “me time” and “be true to ourselves” somehow that translated to settling in every other area.

If you’re single, then by all means, focus on becoming the best verison of yourself! But if you’re married, then guess what? It’s not all about you anymore. And if you have kids? Ha! It’ll never be about you again.

And that’s more than okay. That’s how God designed it.

So I challenge myself and you today not to settle. If today ends up being a “good enough” day, then forgive yourself and get on with it. Tomorrow strive for a better day. But don’t get comfortable in the good enough.

We were created for excellence, by an Excellent God. Celebrate and try again. And always remember the wise words of Winston Churchill, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.”

Keep trying friends, they are worth it. 

Happy Friday!

 

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By Molly 0 Comments » Categories: bitzy, brother, Family., homemaking, Little Stories, Nonny, Positivity, Random.

Conversations {part 9}.

May 22, 2013

 

 

Remember me? Hi! I’m your long lost friend Molly. In order to make up my absence, I have a classic Bitzy story for you.

Bitzy: “MAMA! WHAT IS THAT SMELL? IS DADDY HOME? I CAN SMELL DADDY!”

Me: “Um, no. Daddy isn’t home. What does it smell like?

Bitzy: “IT’S EVERYWHERE, IT’S ALL OVER THE PLACE! I CAN SMELL MY DADDY COMING! I HAVE A SUPERPOWER!”

Me: “Well, he’ll be home soon and you can tell him all about it!”

Bitzy: “WAIT, I THINK I JUST SMELL YOU MAMA. I SOLVED THE INVESTIGATION MYSTERY! WHY DO YOU SMELL LIKE DADDY?”

Me: “Oh! I was out of shampoo in the shower so I just used Daddy’s. No biggie.”

Bitzy: “NO! THAT’S MY DADDY’S!!! DID HE GIVE YOU PERMISSION! THAT’S NOT NICE TO TAKE DADDY’S STUFF MAMA! POOR LITTLE DADDY!”

Me: “Well, Daddy and I share lots of stuff, so I’m sure he didn’t mind.”

Bitzy: “BUT NOW YOU SMELL LIKE DADDY! I WANT YOU TO SMELL LIKE MY MOMMY, NOT MY DADDY!”

Me: “OK, I’ll take another shower later so I will smell like Mommy again. Is that OK?”

Bitzy: “YES, PLEASE HURRY! NOW YOU SMELL LIKE A SWEATING WARTHOG IN THE AFRICAN PLAINS!”

Me: “Is that what Daddy smells like?”

Bitzy: “NO, DADDY JUST SMELLS LIKE A GIRAFFES TONGUE SILLY MAMA!”

Me: “Of course he does! Stinky ole Daddy!”

Bitzy: “I LOVE MY STINKY DADDY SO MUCH. MAMA, I NEED TO TALK YOU ABOUT SOMETHING IMPORTANT. NEXT TIME YOU WANT TO SMELL LIKE A RHINO’S POOPY, DO NOT PUT ON DADDY’S SHAMPOO. THAT’S ONLY FOR DADDY. GOT IT MAMA?”

Me: “Yup, I got it. I really don’t want to smell like an animal, so I’ll put on Mama’s shampoo instead. Is that a good deal?”

Bitzy: “GOOD DEAL. I WANT MY MAMA TO SMELL LIKE ME! MAMA DID YOU KNOW THAT I SMELL LIKE LOLLY POPS AND BANANA POPSICLES?”

Me: “Wow Really! I want to smell like you!”

BITZY: “YOU CAN SILLY MAMA. NOW GO TAKE A SHOWER AND WASH OFF DADDY. YOU ARE A SUPER STINKY PANTS! I’LL BABYSIT BROTHER AND NONNY WHILE YOU WASH OFF THE YUCKY STINKY OF THE ZOO.”

Never a dull moment!!!! Have a great day folks!!!!

 

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By Molly 1 Comment » Categories: bitzy, Family., Little Stories, Random.

Cake.

April 22, 2013

It was confirmed long, long ago that I am a true sugar addict.

Perhaps it was when I was climbing  the counter tops at 5 years old to get cookies from the cookie jar, or when I would hide my Halloween candy under my bed and steal my brothers, one piece at time so that he would never notice. Or maybe when I would eat half gallons of frozen yogurt in high school just to see if I could without getting sick. (I never got sick once. I amaze even myself).

The problem is that pesky Weight Watchers hates sugar.  Apparently, eating food with no nutritional value is frowned upon in dieting. Imagine my horror!

I’ve been searching for a way to lose this baby weight that will allow me to eat a bag of jelly beans a day, but alas, it ain’t happening (much to my dismay).

Anyway, if you’ll remember my main squeezes in the sugar department are candy. Sure, I love desserts, cakes, pies, etc., buy my real jam is the pure sugar kinda candy. Oranges slices, jelly beans, skittles, you get the idea. Now, don’t get me wrong. I’ve never, and I mean never, turned down chocolate. It’s a very close second to gummy worms and other sugary substances.

But one exception to my love for candy is icing. Oh, how I love icing. I think I would take a can of icing over a pack of marshmallows. I say this with great reverence, as to not hurt the feelings of marshmallows everywhere. I still love you marshmallows! I do! And let’s face it, after I eat the icing I’ll be ready for you.

There is no end to my want/love/need for sugar. Believe me, I’ve tried to find the end, and it just doesn’t exist. I can eat, eat, eat it all.

This brings me to a very important subject. In my quest to eat large quantities of sugar and still lose weight I have gotten creative. You see, for years I have made pumpkin muffins using only Spice Cake Mix and a can of pumpkin. No other ingredients. They are awesome. I make them all the time. When I’m really trying to lose weight I will even lose the icing on top.

I’ve even used yellow cake mix and it is great too.

So, last week Zach was out of town for work….

(Can we just take a minute and acknowledge the fact that I took care of a 3 year old, a 22 month old and a newborn for a week without Zach and we all made it out alive…and even smiling. God’s grace is deep and wide friends). 

…And I hadn’t been to the grocery store in over a week. This means that I had demolished anything remotely resembling sugar. All I could find in the pantry, cabinets, and stockpile that I thought could possibly be made into something edible was a box of Devils Food Cake Mix and a can of pumpkin.

I was desperate.

So, I gave it a whirl.

And friends, I’m here to tell you, for a quantity of sugar over quality of sugar kinda gal like me, it was awesome.

They are like chocolate cupcakes, but much thicker and more muffin-like.

And…completely delicious.

Today I tried the pumpkin with Milk Chocolate Cake Mix and while it was still great, I think the darker the chocolate the better.  You honest to goodness can not taste the pumpkin. It’s like a miracle. You lose the oil and eggs and still get a chocolate cupcake!!!!!

If I were a great chef blogger I would have taken great pictures, but alas, you get what you get and you don’t pitch a fit around these parts.

It’s easy peasy.

1. Chocolate Cake Mix (again, Spice Cake Mix and Yellow Cake Mix gives you Pumpkin Muffins that are delicious).

2. Can of Pumpkin (NOT Pumpkin Pie Mix).

Directions: Mix them together until smooth. Spoon into greased muffin pan and make in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 12ish minutes.

Voila!

Healthy(ish) chocolate cupcake/muffins!

Happy Monday Friends!

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By Molly 0 Comments » Categories: Crazycakes, food, Little Stories, Random., Weight Watchers

Love.Always.Wins.

April 19, 2013

It certainly seems like the world has gone crazy, eh?

I’m sure that many generations (if not all) have said the same thing. But friends, it seems a wee bit crazier now? Malls, movie theaters, marathons aren’t safe. I mean, what’s next? It honest to goodness make me never want to leave the house.

But friends, here’s the GOOD NEWS. Regardless of how nutzo this world is, I have a Forever Hope. A Hope that makes the world a bit more bearable, despite the craziness.

You see, I know that this world is not my home. My home is in Heaven with Jesus.

Now before you click off this blog thinking I’m a coo-koo radical, please know that I am, in fact, a radical. Not so much the gun carrying kind, or the political kind, or even the kind that wants to sell off everything I own and live off the land kind.

The Jesus kind.

In fact, the more I learn about the character of Jesus, the more I realize that really and truly, nothing else matters but L-O-V-E.

In fact, we have a brand spanking new family motto.

It’s “Love Always Wins.”

Like, always.

This is, of course, very hard to live out on a day to day basis. For example, the other day a car was behind me and honked at me several times. There were clearly cars coming, so I couldn’t pull out. My first, second and third (3 honks) instinct was to become frustrated and angry, because “Hello lady, can’t you see that I can’t go anywhere!!!” But, I’m trying to retrain my brain to love, love, love, love, love no matter what. So, after huffing and puffing at her I took the time and energy to think it through. Here’s a glimpse into what my “old” and “new” brain would be thinking during this incident. (Take in mind that while this conversation with myself is going I’m singing The B-I-B-L-E to my babies in their carsets while driving).

Old Molly: “I mean seriously lady, can’t you see that I can’t go. What’s your problem?!”

New Molly: “Deep Breath. I wonder what her day has been like to make her be in such a hurry? I hope that everything is okay.”

Old Molly: “Why does she think her time is more valuable than mine? I bet she doesn’t have a newborn screaming to the top of her lungs in her car like I do in mine. Freaking relax lady!”

New Molly: “Lord,  please surround her today with your LOVE and let her feel your presence all day long moving in her most tedious tasks.”

See? It’s quite a retraining isn’t? This is going on all day long in my head. From the most mundane task to the most challenging.

The hardest part? Loving those darn enemies. No silly, not the lady behind me in line is hardly my enemy. I’m talking about those pesky bombers in Boston. And the abortionist that murdered hundreds, if not thousands, of babies and did unspeakable acts to the innocent and the madmen that go into schools and kill children.

Yup, I count them my enemies.

That retraining is the hardest. But the bottom line is that God calls us to LOVE. Not just the easy to love, but even those who cause the worst sort of heartbreak.

I’m trying to imagine a life where I judge no one and love everyone. No blame, no negativity, no harsh words or attitudes, only LOVE.

Granted, I know that this is impossible. I am very far from perfect, but gosh darnit, I wanna try. I really do.

More than my retraining, I want to instill this forever love into my babies. I want their instinct to be love. Always to love.

So friend, maybe just for a minute, give it a shot. Rather than focusing on the negative, give that person the benefit of the doubt and LOVE.

There is plenty of hate friends. Let us love one another, because HE (the King of Kings and Lord of Lords) knows that loving first makes us better and more importantly, points people to the ultimate LOVE, Jesus.

Try it.

I dare you.

 

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By Molly 2 Comments » Categories: bitzy, Family., homemaking, Jesus, Little Stories, Positivity, Random.

New.

April 12, 2013

 New life is an amazing thing.

It offers fresh perspective and an appreciation of the miracle of life.

You see, my Nonny? She saved me from the misery of pregnancy and plunged me into wonderfulness of newborn baby bliss and has completely stolen my heart.

In fact, I’m completely enamored with her. So much so that I am finding it very difficult to put her down.

Like, ever.

Which is a good thing since she’s VERY addicted to me too.

Today Bitzy was at her Lolly’s, Brother was napping and I was snuggled with my new little lady. For the first time in a few hours I laid her down for a few minutes to change the laundry and do a few other chores. These things took me about 15 minutes to complete.

After those things I really could have mopped my floors, dusted, ebayed or done a bunch of other things, but I’m telling ya’ll, it’s like the child has a magnet attached to her. I seriously missed holding her and couldn’t stand to not hold her for one more minute!

As you can imagine when Bitzy and Brother are awake, it’s ummmm….how you say? Loud and crazy chaos. There’s lots of “MINE!” “NO!” “BOOK!” “MELMO!” “OUCH, BOO, HE HIT ME!”

You get the picture.

So, when I’m holding my baby, it’s more like protecting her from an overly enthusiastic 3 year old Bitzy who is in love with her new baby sister and would paw her to death if I’d let her. And Brother has a new hobby: Hitting, throwing books, toys, and even himself as he plunges himself on ground in utter despair. Apparently being 22 months old is like being on a roller coaster.

It’s like I’m in a zone defense with my tiny little fragile baby while these two little maniacs run circles around me needing everything from water to snacks to dresses to books to fixing.

Now that I’m 7 weeks in, I’ve dealt with double mastitis and a serious kidney infection that sent me to the ER and now, finally, finally, finally I’m feeling good and more like myself.

I’ve had an enormous amount of help from my Mama and Lolly (Zach’s mom), making our transition much easier. In fact, all of their help has allowed me to really appreciate my newest miracle.

To really revel in her ya know? To study her face. To notice how the little tiny dots on her nose change everyday.

And to appreciate this little life that God has entrusted to Zach and I.

And most of all to remember that in a heartbeat this tiny little thing will be a big girl that’s twirling around the living room like her big sissy.

Time just goes by too fast, ya know?

So for today, in this moment, I’m gonna soak every single bit of my sweetheart in.

Spit up, blowouts and all.

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By Molly 1 Comment » Categories: bitzy, brother, Confessions., Crazycakes, Family., Random.

Crazytown.

March 25, 2013

Hello friends, I have a big announcement.

I have moved from Louisville, KY to Crazytown, USA.

It’s a place where sippy cups and plastic plates abound and spit up is aplenty.

There is lots of yelling. Happy yelling, sad yelling, hurt yelling and yelling just because you feel like yelling.

There’s a whole lotta books, Goldfish and pacis here in Crazytown.

Well, and timeouts.

But you know what? This place I live is the best place in the whole wide world. 

These 3 little people that are 3 and under demand my every moment 24 hours a day, but they are so magical.

Truly, they are. Sure, they are exhausting and I am often baffled at the never ending question of “WHY ARE YOU CRYING AGAIN?” But the hugs, kisses and cuddles outweigh the craziness by a million miles.

The best part? With all of my heart I know that I was created to be a Mommy and a wife.

I know that God has crafted my Mommy heart to be exactly what my sweet ones need to grow and succeed and to light up the world.

And that truth is what makes my stay in Crazytown make sense.

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By Molly 1 Comment » Categories: bitzy, brother, Crazycakes, Family., Random.

Lefty.

March 23, 2013

The above picture was just taken in my bathroom. It has not been altered in any way.

Just in case you are not familiar with pumping milk from your postpartum breasts, let me help you out in understanding this picture.

You see, it’s the tale of two bottles. These two bottles were pumped in 7 minutes. One bottle contains the milk of Molly the Jersey Cow and the other, well, it contains the milk of the Molly Little Engine That Could.

It’s quite unfortunate that one of my breasts could feed a third world country and the other couldn’t keep a stray cat fed and happy.

I’m not sure why my supply feels the need to be OVERLY productive on the left and barely there on the right. It’s been this way with all three of my little miracles. Eventually I phase out my right breast completely and let my little lefty shine, shine, shine.

I’m not ashamed of this strange and wonderful fact about my body. It helps keep me humble. I get to identify with those who overproduce and those who under-produce.  It’s a gift, right?

Look me, all choosing joy! Ha!

(Was this too much information?).

Happy Weekend Everyone!

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By Molly 2 Comments » Categories: Confessions., Crazycakes, Family., Little Stories, Random.

Gymnastics.

March 21, 2013

First let me say that I know that I really and truly MUST write a post about how we’re doing around here as a family of 5. I know that in 20 years when I read all of these I’ll really need a reminder of the messy and magical chaos that is my life right now.

I know, I know, I know.

But for now, I simply must tell you this little story before I forget.

You see, my Bitzy is a little gymnast. Sure, she’s a space cadet gymnast who spends a lot of time staring at the ceiling rather than listening, but still yet, a tiny and perfect gymnast.

See? Here’s proof.

Precious, right?

Today she completed her second session and will begin her third next week.

Anyway, after her class as I was putting her down for a nap and rocking her (yes, she’s 3 and I still rock her before naps and bedtime, don’t judge me), I asked her if she was excited to see her friend Soley next week. Here’s how our conversation went.

Me: “Are you so excited to start your new class next week and see your friend Soley again?”

Bitzy: “Yes! Can we see her tomorrow?”

Me: “Well, our class isn’t until next week, but maybe when we see her we can ask if she wants to have a playdate with you.”

Bitzy: “Oh, that would be great. I would love that Mama! Actually, instead of class can we just have a playdate?”

Me: “No way! You don’t want miss your class do you? You can have class and a playdate.”

Bitzy: “Well Mama, I’m kinda scared of my class.”

Me: “Why in the world are you scared? You love gymnastics don’t you?”

Bitzy: “I’m scared of the trapeze and jumping off the balance beam, but I’m most scared of the crocodiles that live under the blocks. Also the monkeys are super scary.”

Me: “You silly girl, there are no animals that live at gymnastics!”

Bitzy: “Actually Mama, yes they do live there and I’m their favorite friend, but I really don’t want to live in the swamp like they ask me to. Do I have to live in the swamp?”

Me: “No baby, you live here. You never have to live in a swamp.”

Bitzy: “Oh good. I was really worried. Swamps are yucky and dark. I’ve been praying to Jesus every night to please not make me live in the swamp with the crocodiles!”

Me: “Jesus will never make you live with the crocodiles. Now that you know that you’re safe do you like gymnastics again?”

Bitzy: “Well, not really because now I have to pray that Jesus will save me from the polar bears that live under the trampolines. Do you think He will?”

Me: “I think so. Just pray really hard!”

Ah, my crazy and creative girl gets me every time.

 

 

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By Molly 0 Comments » Categories: bitzy, Crazycakes, Random.

Rocking.

February 28, 2013

Today my beautiful new Valentine is 2 weeks old. She’s brand new! Or “fresh from heaven” as Bitzy likes to say. She is proving to be a very good baby so far. Although she loves to be held 99% of the time and wants to eat constantly, she isn’t crying much so I’m a happy Mama.

As you may know, these newborn days are fleeting, so I’m trying with all my might to soak them up.

So today while Brother and Bitzy spent the day with their sweet Lolly, I rocked and rocked and rocked some more with this precious child.

Even though we do not have not a piece of fruit left in the house and I must go to the store.

Even though the chores are plenty all over the house from bills to pay to scrubbing toilets.

Even though my hair has really seen better days.

Even though _____________ (a zillion other things).

In light of all these chores and responsibilities, we rocked.

Why?

Because this poem rings in my ears and reminds me that rocking my baby is my most important job today.

Song for a Fifth Child

    by Ruth Hulburt Hamilton

Mother, oh Mother, come shake out your cloth,
Empty the dustpan, poison the moth,
Hang out the washing and butter the bread,
Sew on a button and make up a bed.
Where is the mother whose house is so shocking?
She’s up in the nursery, blissfully rocking.

Oh, I’ve grown shiftless as Little Boy Blue
(Lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).
Dishes are waiting and bills are past due
(Pat-a-cake, darling, and peek, peekaboo).
The shopping’s not done and there’s nothing for stew
And out in the yard there’s a hullabaloo
But I’m playing Kanga and this is my Roo.
Look! Aren’t her eyes the most wonderful hue?
(Lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).

The cleaning and scrubbing will wait till tomorrow,
For children grow up, as I’ve learned to my sorrow.
So quiet down, cobwebs. Dust go to sleep.
I’m rocking my baby and babies don’t keep.

So excuse me while I go rock some more.

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By Molly 1 Comment » Categories: Confessions., Family., homemaking, Little Stories, New Baby, Nonny, Positivity

Nonny.

February 19, 2013

My perfect Valentine joined the world on February 14, 2013 at 5:20pm.

I hope to write her birth story sooner than later and to share with you how our sweet Nonny is adjusting.

To say that we’re thrilled is quite the understatement.

Wanna see this beauty?

I cannot seem to stop staring at her.

Just like her Brother and Sister did at a mere 5 days old she wants to nurse every 1.5-2 hours. It seems to be a trend around here. She also hates to be laid down. Although just this morning I put her tiny little self in the swing and she seems to like it!!!! This is very good news!

Bitzy and Brother are doing great! Especially Brother. I was so worried that with him being so little (20 months) he would be very lost without all of Mommy’s attention, but he seems pretty untraumatized by it all. Bitzy on the other hand is showing a few signs of attention seeking, but nothing major. I’m hoping to take her on a “date” later to give her some one-on-one attention. I’m hoping that will help.

Am I tired? Um, yes. More like exhausted.

Am I happy? Overjoyed actually.

Am I blessed?  Beyond my wildest dreams.

Am I about to break out into hives thinking about next week when Zach goes back to work and my Mama leaves and I’m all alone for 10 hours a day? I’m shaking in my slippers over here. But we’ll save that anxiety attack for another day.

Am I gonna savor every precious moment with my Valentine? You better believe it.

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By Molly 2 Comments » Categories: bitzy, brother, Little Stories, New Baby, Nonny, Random., Zach.

Letter {nonny}.

February 11, 2013

My darling girl,

As I sit and feel you stretching and wiggling in my womb I wonder if I will miss you being inside of me once you are in my arms. I wonder if your hair will be “yellow or black” as Bitzy says. I wonder if you’ll be a good sleeper (like Brother) or a not-so-great sleeper (like Bitzy).

I wonder lots of things about your these days.

Mostly I wonder if you’ll ever know how much I love you.

I wonder if somehow the stress of this pregnancy and my caring for your brother and sister has somehow effected your little heart. I wonder if all my complaints about my back hurting and how uncomfortable I have been has somehow settled in your spirit. I hope not.

I hope that you know how cherished you are already. How amazed I am that our Creator God has been so carefully knitting you together, making you absolutely perfect in every single way.

Because darling, it is amazing. The miracle of you, I mean. You are amazing. Even before I meet you face to face I know that you are. Wanna know how I know?

Because God made you.

He made you perfectly perfect from His perfect hands. He made you lovely, beautiful, kind and good because you are made in His image. And HE is perfect.

But honey, never forgot that you are joining a family who is no where near perfect, but we are full of love. Full of laughter and most of all, full of faith. Faith in a loving God and the desire to honor Him.

So, I know that you’ll be just fine. We all will be.

I must admit that I’ve been very nervous about you joining our little clan. Having 3 babies close together in age is not for the faint of heart, but oh the joy it brings. Just today Bitzy and Brother sat in a rocking chair together “reading” a book and they giggled and giggled. In such a short time you’ll be joining them as well. My heart swells just to imagine the scene.

So baby girl, when you read this I want to you know beyond a shadow of a doubt how highly anticipated you have been. How treasured you are and mostly how loved you are already.

I just can’t wait to meet you.

Love you always and forever,

Mama

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By Molly 0 Comments » Categories: bitzy, brother, Family., Little Stories, New Baby, Random.

Capture.

February 4, 2013

From the very beginning of my journey into motherhood I have willingly tried to be present. As in, I don’t talk on the phone or do computer things when my babies are awake.  I don’t do major cleaning when they are awake. I don’t put them in a stroller and take them shopping with me for hours at time.  I just don’t. This doesn’t make me awesome or anything, but it’s my way. I truly believe that God has given me an urgency to be present and available to them. For me to grasp and understand that time is slippery and will pass right through our fingers without a nod unless we willfully and willingly  pay attention and cherish every moment.

I truly hope and pray that I respect the gift of our time together. This stay-at-home Mama gig is my dream come true after all.  Heaven forbid that I take it for granted.

However, this is easier said than done.  And admittedly, in this season of a strong willed 3 three year old, hoping to capture every moment isn’t exactly easy peasy. She’s a handful, that one. In fact, last month when everyone was sick and I was seriously struggling with pregnancy and managing a household full of sick people I probably would have thrown this computer out the window if someone suggested I “cherish” the moments.

Ain’t nobody got time to cherish the moments when the moments are full of crying and whining and time-outs!

But in the midst of the chaos that surrounds this house much of the time, I am in awe of our miraculous little lives. How incredible these little ones are and how blessed I am to witness it all, day in and day out.

Yesterday, Zach and I sat and watched in awe as Brother, who has been talking like crazy lately and it’s just downright adorable, began saying new words and putting together phrases. I love being with him every day to see how much he’s growing and changing. He even looked into Zach’s eyes and said, “I love you Daddy!” just as clear as day. It’s just precious.

Even as I try my hardest to be present, to take pictures, to be here, I still forget things.  There are so many moments that happen on a daily basis that I want to freeze, but alas, they pass by.

Moments like my Bitzy running around the house in her “Butterfly Dress” (her baby sister’s 6 month dress that barely covers her bottom), sporting her tiara and her “Clickedy Clack” dress-up Princess Aurora shoes, singing “THIS LITTLE LIGHT ON MINEY, I’M GONNA LET IT SHINY. THIS LITTLE LIGHT ON MINEY, I’M GONNA LET IT SHINY, LET IT SHINY, SHINY, SHINY!”

Or when Brother Bear is running around and I say, “Show me your funny face”, and he’ll flash me a great big smile and give me the cutest little silly face. Or when I say, “I need a cuddle!” and he’ll run up to me and throw his arms around my neck and plant a kiss on my lips.

These moments that happen throughout the day, everyday, I just want to freeze in time. They are fleeting unfortunately, and I know that.

It’s sad that regardless of my effort to capture/freeze/contain these precious little moments, time still steals them away.

But I’m going to keep trying. I’m going to solider on and try to remember every word, smile and bedtime snuggle. And try, try, try to remember that even when my sweet Bitzy gets overtaken by “The Crazy,” that someday, I’ll miss all this.

The greatest news of all? In 2 weeks or so, I get to start a new journey with a brand new little life.

And for that, I am beyond thankful.

Blessed indeed.

 

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By Molly 0 Comments » Categories: bitzy, brother, Crazycakes, Family., homemaking, Little Stories, New Baby, Random.

MiniVan.

January 29, 2013

Allow me to introduce you to my friend and yours, Black Betty Bambalam.

You see, this car is just a car like any other. It’s easily replaceable and still has a solid place in the “just stuff” category. However, let it be known that Zach and I LOVE this car. We bought it over 4 years ago and it was our first major purchase as a married couple. We truly have loved this vehicle and have held onto it as long as possible. She has beautifully accommodated our growing family and kept millions (perhaps billions) of Goldfish safe and sound, buried into the seats where no man has gone before. She’s also seen her fair share of half chewed chicken nuggies if we’re honest.

But now, seeing as how it’s an impossibility to put two convertible carseats and an infant seat into the backseat of Black Betty we’re bidding her goodbye.

Nothing like waiting ’til the last minute at 38 weeks pregnant! 

Now, we will welcome a new-to-us member of our family. Her name is yet to be determined. We’ve gotta get to know her first.

Yup, we’re joining the minivan club. Happily of course!

The Goldfish are pumped too.

To be honest, I have no qualms about driving a mini-van. I could care less how cool or uncool I look (clearly, since I’ve worn the same yoga pants every day for 3 months straight), but, I am so used to having my babies at arms length from me in the car. Now, they’ll be so far away from me! I don’t like that!

Any mini-van owners have any advice for how to transition best (for me and babies) from an SUV/car to a mini-van?  I know that I’ll love the roominess, I’m more concerned about  how to give Bitzy and Brother their water cups and snacks on the interstate without killing us all.

So there you have it.  I am a mini-van Mommy and I’m proud of it!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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By Molly 0 Comments » Categories: Family., Little Stories, Random.

Mixed Bag {review & giveaway}.

January 23, 2013

Congratulations Ashley and Rachel!!!! You are the winners!!!!! An email is coming your way!  (You may wanna go play Power Ball tonight since you’re lucky!).

Sometimes friends, luck is on our side.

And in my case, it certainly was when Mixed Bag Designs contacted yours truly to do a review and giveaway! I happily said yes, and I have been enjoying several products from this great company since.

The interesting thing about Mixed Bag Designs is not only are they an online retailer, but more importantly, they do school fundraisers! Wouldn’t you rather your kid sell things of use like bags, purses and cups than candles and fudge?

Here’s a great video that showcases one of their grocery bags. I LOVE MINE.

Pretty cool, eh?

Mixed Bag Designs was founded in 2008 by two mothers living in the San Francisco Bay Area who had a lot of experience with fundraising for their children’s schools. They had realized that most of the products out there for school fundraisers weren’t really useful in our day to day lives. How much cookie dough and wrapping paper can one person really need? They felt that if they could offer something that people would actually use, it would in turn help raise fundraising profits. Hence, they started with reusable grocery bags and it just took off from there.
Since they first entered the fundraising market, it has been the fastest growing part of the business. Mixed Bag Designs has helped thousands of organizations across the country meet their fundraising goals for their important causes while spreading colorful and fun style. This company is young enough to be refreshingly different, yet experienced enough to understand how to handle many different types of fundraising opportunities. They take pride in their commitment to make your fundraising experience successful and enjoyable.

Forget paper or plastic, these reusable bags are green and gorgeous! I truly love these products. The prints and colors make me happy. The fact that they are helping the environment makes me happy. Helping out local communities and fundraisers makes me happy.

See? Happiness.

Here are the items that I chose to review….

1. TL190 Pink Paisley Cold Tumbler 20oz

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. EB166 Navy/Green Flower Dry Erase Board

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I have been writing our weekly memory verses on this board every week. It’s wonderful!

3. HE177 Pink/Green Swirl Hold Everything

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As you can see, the back of our SUV is a very stressful and messy place. Do not focus on the mess, but on the bag please.

4. TB100 Damask Big Travel Bag

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bitzy is a natural model, don’t ya think?!

5. NG100 Damask Insulated Grocery Store Bag

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LOVE these products!

6. WL212 Green Croc Zip Lunch Tote

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

So, here’s the skinny: I LOVE THIS STUFF. The colors are bold and fabulous. Even though I’m not an environmental activist I still like to do my part to keep God’s creation as lovely as possible, so I love that these products are made from recycled material. And more than anything I love that schools can sell these products that are practical rather than crap that no one actually wants/uses.

Out of all of these products my most favorite is Number 5, the Damask Insulated Grocery Store Bag. I keep it in the trunk of the car and when I go to the store I put all of my cold/freezer items inside. Easy Peasy. It’s cute, fun and very practical!

Ya know what else is happy? Mixed Bag Designs is giving 2 lucky readers a $50 gift card to their online store! Amazing!!!!

Leaving a comment on this post is all you have to do to enter! Of course, for those over achievers, you can gain one extra entry by tweeting this:

Mixed Bag Designs is giving away 2 $50 gift cards! @littlestories http://littlestorieseverywhere.com/mixed-bag-review-giveaway/

Just tweet it and come back here to leave ONE ADDITIONAL comment on this post letting me know that you tweeted and what your twitter name is. Any comments that don’t follow these rules will be deleted.

This giveaway closes at 11:00pm EST WEDNESDAY JANUARY 30TH. The winner will be announced the next day.

Good luck!

Disclosure: Mixed Bag Designs has provided this package to me and is covering the cost of this giveaway today.  All opinions and words herein are my own.

 

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By Molly 38 Comments » Categories: Giveaway, Little Savings, Little Stories, Random.

Funkytown.

January 23, 2013

So today is my birthday. It’s true.

Another beautiful year has come and gone. As I’ve said so many times before, time is so tricky. So many things have happened since last year, but at the same time, it has flown by. I’m sure that most of you can identify with this.

There is just something about birthdays that feel like a fresh start. For me, my “new beginning” isn’t ever New Years.  I become much more reflective around my birthday.

For one thing, the older I get the more thankful I am for one more year.

I’m not lamenting my age at all, nope, not one bit.

I know how many people would have loved to have had another birthday, but they did not.

May I never, ever take one single day for granted.

Which leads me to a confession.

If you haven’t noticed, for the past month or two I’ve been to an awful place called, “Funkytown.” And not in a good way.

Pregnancy is hard, plus the mix of having 2 sick toddlers for 2 months has been very difficult.

These past couple months has seriously made me doubt myself as a Mama. I’ve been so tired and emotional that I just haven’t felt like myself at all.

In fact, a few weeks ago we went out with my in-laws to dinner. We have barely left the house in over a month because of sickness so it was truly a treat. While there, we ran into a friend.

She also has 2 little ones and is “in the trenches” as I am. I found myself complaining about the sickness and my exhaustion. I heard these negative words come out of my mouth and I barely recognized myself.

Thankfully over the past few weeks my sweet littles have returned to their normal hilarious selves. I just cannot express the difference between my sick little people and my healthy people.

On Facebook people talk about how much they love the cuddles of their sickies. Not so around here!!! My sweethearts do not cuddle when they’re sick. They just cry.

Like, all day. Everyday.

Until they are better.

Does this help explain why after 2 months of crying I was ready for the looney bin?

Granted, this is no excuse for my negativity. In fact, I’m quite ashamed of myself for becoming so beat down from the crying.

But now, the sunshine has returned.

Everyone is still challenging, but at least they are smiling.

Bitzy’s new thing is saying, “OKAY, OKAY, OKAY MAMA. MAMA, MAMA, MAMA. HERE’S YOUR CHANCE. YOU CAN LISTEN TO ME AND MAKE A GOOD CHOICE. I NEED YOU TO LISTEN.” Then she’ll proceed to tell me what “choices” she’s going to give me.

For example my “chance” tonight when I asked her what she wanted for dinner she replied, “MAMA, I NEED SOME CHOCOLATE BALL SOUP! WITH SOME SPRINKLES. OKAY MAMA? DOES THAT SOUND LIKE A GOOD CHANCE FOR A GOOD CHOICE?”

So basically, SHE’S BAAAAAAACCCCCCCCKKKKKK!!!!

HA!

And my sweet Brother Bear is too. Granted he’s still fussy and demanding and has started throwing toys like a normal 19 month old toddler boy, but at least (thank Jesus in heaven) he’s not crying 24 hours a day.

So friends, I’ve packed my bags from funkytown and I’m back to my happy self. In fact, I’m feeling really good. This little baby girl will join in 3-4 weeks and now I’m not totally panicky about that fact, but yet, excited.

Thanks for hanging in there with me.

May this next year be the the best yet!

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By Molly 0 Comments » Categories: bitzy, brother, Crazycakes, Family., Little Stories, Random.

Three {bitzy}.

January 19, 2013

This is your “Say Cheese” Smile!

Beautiful Bitzy,

You my darling girl turned three a few weeks ago and my oh my, what a celebration we have had! In fact, after 3 parties, the most sugar you’ve ever had in your life and ton of gifts, we are all partied out! You see, your Mama believes in celebrating life to the fullest and that every year should be greatly celebrated…so, we truly partied ’til we dropped!

In some ways, it feels like three years have flown by with you. But in others, I truly feel like you’ve been with me forever and ever. I barely remember life without you. Perhaps it’s because you’ve always been a part of me. A missing piece. Now, with you in my arms, I’m more complete.

You continue to amaze me with your creativity and brilliant mind. I know that I’m biased, as I should be, I’m your Mama afterall, but really and truly you do amaze me with your vocabulary and use of complex ideas.

Just yesterday you said, “TO TELL YOU THE TRUTH MAMA MY BABY IS A WILD MAN. HE’S SO ADORABLE AND PRECIOUS. BUT WHEN HE GRABS MY STUFF IT HURTS MY FEELINGS. CAN YOU JUST HOLD HIM AND MAKE HIM TAKE A BREAK FROM MY TOYS? I THINK HE NEEDS A BOOK. MAYBE PETER RABBIT. HE’S SO TINY, HE PROBABLY JUST NEEDS A BOOK AND SOME SNUGGLES FROM HIS MAMA WHILE I PLAY WITH MY STUFF. DON’T YA THINK MAMA? I REALLY WISH THAT HE COULD LEARN TO NEVER, EVER TOUCH MY STUFF AGAIN!”

I mean you turned 3 two seconds ago and you’ve already figured out how to convince me to keep your Brother away from you and your stuff while you play. You’re quite convincing actually. We call you the “great negotiator.” Your daddy claims that you get that honestly…from your Mama!

This is the first time you saw your princess cake for your party! You were amazed! Lolly made it just for you!

You are also playful. And energetic. And kind. And funny. And beautiful. And charming. And mine.

Mine.

My girl.

My firstborn.

You, my love, made me a Mama. And that will always be an incredible bond that we have.

I am so proud of you love. So proud!

We all dressed up for your “Royal Tea Party!” It was so much fun!

I never, ever want you to forget that every single day of your life, even when you were in my tummy and even before, when you were a mere dream in our hearts, that you have been prayed for. Every.Single.Day.

We thank God for you and pray you’ll continue to be playful, optimistic, gentle, kind, funny and mostly that you’ll learn to love God the most. More than anything else in all the lands, you’ll love Him best.

In fact, every day for as long as I can remember this is my prayer for you, “Jesus, thank you for my baby girl. I praise you because You made her so fearfully and wonderfully. I humbly ask that you’ll keep SIDS away. Please keep accident, injury, death and disease away. Please keep evil away and people that would harm her. But most of all, please let her love you the most. More than anything in the whole wide world, let her love, serve and follow you Lord.”

This simple prayer has been prayed over you and whispered in your ears everyday.

Because you sweetheart, are worth praying for. You are absolutely, in every way, loved by so many, but mostly by a God who truly does love you “the most.”

You are always moving so fast it’s hard to get a good picture! I hope that you will always be as carefree and playful as you are now!

Never, ever, ever forget that you, my beautiful, were bought at a price. Did you know that? Did you know that the King of King and Lord of Lords died so that you can LIVE. He sure did. This is something to cling to, to savor and to enjoy darling.

Happy Birthday Sweet Baby.

I love you more than you’ll ever know,

Mama

 

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By Molly 0 Comments » Categories: bitzy, Family., Little Stories, Random.

Weaning.

January 17, 2013

Only seconds after Brother was born I nursed him.

It you know me personally or have followed this blog for long you may already know that I’m an advocate for breastfeeding.

Of course I am.

Most everyone is.

Even if you don’t actually participate in the act of breastfeeding you still probably realize that “breast is best.”

It’s better for mommy and baby and I although I had a few bumps along the way with breastfeeding my babies, it’s been a magical experience.

You see, now for the first time in 3 years I am not breastfeeding any babies at all.

That’s right. My boobies have freedom.

Well, for about 4 weeks (give or take).

I know that 4 weeks doesn’t sound like long, but boy oh boy are we living it up while we can.

In fact, this weekend Zach and I are actually having an overnight date! We have only had one ever when Bitzy was 17 months and I wasn’t breastfeeding her overnight. Now that Brother is weaned at 19 months we can go again.

Are we wild and crazy or what? We will probably shake the town down with our craziness! (actually we’ll probably eat dinner at 6:00pm and be in bed at 9:00pm and sleep until 10:00am the next morning, but at least we’ll be alone!).

So just to break it down for you, I nursed Bitzy until she was a little over 3 years old and Brother until he was 19 months. I plan to nurse sweet baby Nonny (baby in belly) until she won’t let me anymore.

I am very proud that, together, we made it for as long as we did.

I have heard people say things like, “Oh gross! I can’t believe that you’re nursing your toddler!” And, “Will you nurse ’til she’s 12?” And my personal favorite, “You are doing them any favors by continuing to breastfeed. You’re doing it for you, not for them.”

Maybe you are one of these people.

And honestly, I ain’t mad at ya. When I hear people say things like this I immediately know that…

1. You have never experienced a similar breastfeeding relationship.

2. You have misinformation.

3. You are judging me based on what you do not understand.

I’m not the girl who is going to post articles on Facebook and Twitter about the benefits of extended breastfeeding. Why? Because just because it worked for my family doesn’t mean that I think you’re a bad person if you don’t do it. And I don’t expect you to “get it.”

In fact, I never planned to nurse Bitzy for 3 years. My goal was to never use formula (and by God’s grace formula has never touched the lips of my children) and to nurse them both for at least one year.

That’s it. That was my whole plan. I have no agenda. I’m not a member of the Le Leche League. Nope, I’m just a mommy who God has given a whole lotta milk to and I am able to feed my babies with it. I will never tell you that you’re a bad mommy if you don’t breastfeed. However, if you need support I will gladly help if I can.

Again, by God’s grace in addition to tandem nursing both Bitzy and Brother I was able to donate over 6,000 ounces of breastmilk to a national milk bank to help babies in the NICU.

Friends, that’s a lotta milk.

I’m proud of that. It wasn’t fun pumping like a mad woman. But I’m glad that I did and I hope to again.

Back to my original plan of nursing for only a year, when Bitzy was 9 months old, I got pregnant with Brother. I continued nursing and assumed that she would wean eventually in the pregnancy (like the other 75% of children do). Nope, as you know my girl isn’t a quitter!

Then when Brother was born my milk was like sweet nectar apparently and she was in milk drunk heaven.  She was so excited to have good old full fat milk back in her belly (in case you don’t know, in pregnancy milk production decreases significantly in pregnancy and for most women, it completely depletes until the new baby is born).

So, I tandem breastfed. It was tricky sometimes, but overall, it was totally doable. I would recommend trying it to anyone.

While I’m thankful for the break, I was planning on and hoping to tandem feed baby Nonny and Brother, but my little wild man weaned himself at 19 months. He was done and it was easy peasy to wean him.

Weaning Bitzy was much more challenging. You see, she was an addict. Not just to the milk, but to Mama. So, weaning was a much longer process. I tried for over 6 months to gently wean her and finally it clicked. But again, it was very gradual.

I’m nervous that when Nonny comes Bitzy will want to rejoin in the milk fun. Again, an addict is an addict. I’m going to stay strong and not let her nurse if she wants to because weaning her was so long and dramatic!

So, that’s my journey in a nutshell.

I love breastfeeding. I love extended breastfeeding. I’m excited to do it all over again.

I’ve had many women privately ask me about my journey and I have tried to offer support and advice, and I am still very willing to! As I said, each breastfeeding relationship is different and requires different approaches, methods and techniques. It’s not a cookie cutter act. So, if you are struggling please let me know and I will try to help. I am only an expert for my own children though! And YOU are the expert of your child. Don’t forget that!

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By Molly 2 Comments » Categories: bitzy, brother, Family., homemaking, Little Stories, New Baby

eBay {part 3}.

January 14, 2013

There have been countless numbers of you beautiful people who have shared with me that you too, have begun a journey with eBay to sell your junk and make extra cash.

Can I tell you how amazing that is? Can I tell you what joy that brings to me? I mean, seriously, I am so encouraged to know that maybe, just maybe, I was a small part of challenging you to simplify and earn extra money.

I am so extremely excited to tell you that over the past 3-4 months I’ve sold almost $2,000 worth of clothes and shoes from our closets. Most of it has been $.99-$5.99 at a time. There have been very few high dollar items ($40 or more). Little by little we have ticked away at cleaning out our closets and getting rid of stuff.

And honestly? We haven’t scratched the surface. We still have way too much stuff and even after donating bag after bag to Goodwill and selling so much on eBay we are still in need of simplifying further.

Are you?

If you are annoyed by your closet, your attic, basement, etc., I really encourage you to clean it out and donate your stuff or sell it. It’s such a wonderful feeling!

Here are a few tips from me, a normal Stay at Home Mama (not an eBay store) to help get rid of your crap.

1. Price your items low. Sometimes the thing that you think will sell for $10 will only go for $1.99 and you’ll be sad. Here’s some perspective. That “beloved” item has been in the back of your closet for 2 years. Even though you keep saying you’ll wear it, you never do. It’s better to have $1.99 in your pocket than have that piece crowding up your already too full closet.

2. Charge for Shipping. It’s true that “Free Shipping” items go faster. However, I pad my shipping fees just a bit to help offset the cost of the mailers and the eBay fees. For example, if I sell a kids shirt for $2.99 that weighs 6oz. That would cost me around $1.84 to ship. The mailer is around $.34 each. So, I’ll charge between $3.50-$3.99 for shipping. So, after eBay takes their “cut” I’ll make around $3.64 on a shirt that’s been in a box in the basement for a year. Not a bad deal.

3. eBay gives sellers 50 Free Listings Per Month. This means that you get to list 50 items of junk per month, for free. After you exceed 50 you have to pay “listing fees.” Those fees of $.25-$3.00 can get pricey. So, make it your goal this month to list up to 50 items. Anything from a baby onesie to a fancy purse that you were given 5 years ago are options.

4. There are a lot of crazy people out there. I’ve stuck with clothes and shoes as I said, but if you have anything that is a collectible and/or weird item, it’s very possible that some crazyhead will have to have it and it will sell. So, give it a shot! List it and see what happens! On the same note, not all eBay buyers are nice, in fact, some are quite rude. And, that’s OK. If you have any issues with a buyer who doesn’t like the item you sold them, won’t pay, etc., just “kill ‘em with kindness” and take the high road. That positive feedback percentage goes a long, long way.

5. Sell your best stuff and give the rest away. As I said, I have sold a ton of stuff on eBay, but I have given away a lot of stuff too. Stuff that’s in good shape, but not great. Donate it! Bless other people and get the tax write off while you’re at it! Either way, you are still getting rid of stuff!!!!

Anyway, as always, I’m here to answer questions and be your eBay cheerleader!!!! Go sell something people!!!!

 

By Molly 0 Comments » Categories: Little Savings, money, Random.
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