The Mommy Awards

I knew this day would arrive ...

2008-12-15T08:27:00.000-08:00

It has happened, my baby is entering a new phase of alertness and activity and my nice peaceful moments I have spent cuddling him to the glow of my monitor are coming to an end. (he can't keep his hands off the keyboard and there are just too many typos)

I just don't have the time to keep this up right now. (sniff, sniff)

So, the Mommy Awards are going to sleep for a season - unless someone out there would like to join in and come up with some weekly questions. I think I could continue to provide the "artwork" since it is all on my computer, but that would be it for right now. So, anyone interested in leading some Mommy discussions???

If you are up to it, please let me know and I will add you to the blog.

utahjenny at gmail dot com

Let us not end things here, yet, I have one more award to present. I read over the grueling accounts left by Julie and Tia and the winner was the practically cut off hand of Julie's husband - a word of advice to us all - KNOW WHERE YOUR NEAREST HOSPITAL IS LOCATED!!! And yes, Utah County can be VERY confusing to get around in - what a way to learn.

So, congratualations Julie - you win:

Thanks for playing everyone -it has been so fun for me to read your stories.

I Had to Share This News Story - My Jaw is Still on the Floor

2008-12-05T11:00:00.000-08:00

This doesn't have much to do with being a "Nurse", but it is the story of a couple on their way to the hospital to have a baby. In the midst of very heavy traffic and very regular contractions they were given a ticket!!! Crazy ...

New Topic

2008-12-02T10:53:00.000-08:00

It's time to pull out more Mommy Stories.

I thought I would do something Christmas related, but we have plenty of time for that. Since I have spent a lot of time being Nurse to sick children, husband and myself for that matter - let's talk about it.

This has been one of those years. We are actually not too bad, but it seems we are catching every little thing that comes our way. Thankfully, when I say little, I do mean little. We haven't been really ill - just full of a lot of little ickies.

This week it was the stomach flu, and it lasted all of maybe 8 hours maximum. If you are going to get something, why not something that is so short in duration!

Whew!

Of course, what I feel terrible about is that we probably did our part to share it with many others (very unintentially) - so sorry!

So, what are your "Mom Nurse" stories.

What are some of the worst or scariest moments you have encountered in caring for your family. What are some funny times?

There are a few that I have already shared through my blog:

My baby and the case of the red poop

The Boy and his GARGANTUAN Tonsils

Sick Mom vs. Healthy 3yo Boy

Sick Little Red Riding Hood

Stitches for The Boy

WOW - I don't have any sick posts for my husband or Thing 2 - I'll have to get on that!!!

Anyhow, share your stories - it will be worth a little laugh or a little sympathy - I am here for you all!

A Few Thanksgiving Funnies

2008-11-26T19:09:00.000-08:00

This scene is from Everybody Loves Raymond:

The Turkey Song (by Adam Sandler)

And the Birther Award goes to Aimee

2008-11-25T18:08:00.000-08:00

Yes, my sister-in-law gets it this time, although we ALL deserve this one. I loved reading over all the stories (and Charity THANKS for sharing that beautiful story - I will NEVER be able to hear that story too many times, as long as I have some Kleenex nearby).

So, to all of us who have and will bring babies into our families CONGRATULATIONS, we all deserve hugs and pats on the back and high fives and while we are at it, diamonds and manicures and trips to Hawaii!!!

I hope you have a great Thanksgiving everyone, I am not doing a new topic because I think everyone will be busy, as we should be. And for those of you going shopping on Friday - I'll pray for your safety ;)

I've been waiting for this one ...

2008-11-18T07:52:00.000-08:00

This week's topic is about that very moment that makes many of us mothers ... (ummm, no, not conception - we're not going there) We are talking about BIRTH!!!

As much as I love elephants - I am so glad we don't give birth to 200 pound babies!

I know several pregnant people and I was waiting for everyone who has participated in this blog to actually get those babies OUT before opening up the forum to birth stories. Some are incredible and some are horrific, we didn't want to talk about those just before some of you gave birth.

This week I want to know what you went through to get your little one(s) here. And since each birth is so different from any other, if you have multiples, please share them all. Some of you have had natural deliveries, some of you c-sections, some have adopted. Whatever it took to get your little ones in your life, it was all a beautiful miracle and each and every one deserves to be celebrated. We ARE NOT going to focus on methods and comparing one to another, and if there happened to be any comments in that direction, they will QUICKLY be deleted. But, I know you ladies are all so nice you won't go there.

Every birth is a miracle, and that is what we want to celebrate!

Just think - one of you will get to proudly claim "The Birther" award.

So pull out those stories and share - and congratulations to all our recently birthed mommy friends - we are so glad the little ones made it safe and sound!

To start off the birth stories - we'll do a fictional one. It's from one of my favorite movies of all time, "Big Fish." I was pulled right into it in the first two minutes with the birth scene you will see in the trailer below (watch very closely at about 20 seconds into the clip). Warning: If you blink, you will miss it!

That one brought tears to my eyes - if only all deliveries were that quick!

Can't wait to hear your stories.

Just For Fun:

2008-11-13T12:07:00.000-08:00

I think we have all seen this, but it is a classic and I still laugh so hard I almost cry.

Take a minute and relish in the calling that is motherhood:

If you haven't seen this before, sit back, grab a tissue and - ohhhhh - enjoy!

And just for fun - here is her version for Dads:

Hee hee!

New Topic - Next Week

2008-11-12T07:54:00.001-08:00

I am getting over the FLU!

My brain is in a fog.

And I am just flat out tired.

And a funny lady calling herself MomBabe made me laugh at my flu battle with

THIS FUNNY POST!

Please enjoy and come back next week for a new topic.

And still, feel free to post anything about potty training.

And The Mommy Award goes to:

2008-11-11T09:17:00.000-08:00

AMBER!!!

Way to go -we totally sympathize!!!

Potty training has always been a struggle for me. Our first was actually the easiest, she found out Santa had a special prize just for her if she was potty trained by Christmas. She was an over night success right after Thanksgiving and has never had a problem since.

However, we have more children and the second was much more stubborn. Plus her potty training window coincided with the birth of her brother and things had to take a back seat. And even when things seemed to be going well, she would still have her moments. But she is in first grade now and things seem to be fine.

Then we have her younger brother - right around his 3rd birthday, he started pooping in the toilet - just out of the blue. I tried to work with him, but I was also very pregnant and pretty miserable, so, it all kind of went to the wayside. Drat - we are still trying to find some motivation, but can't quite get through to him yet!

And as for the baby - not even a thought yet - thank heavens.

I just have to say how glad I was about the polls - I was happy to see that most kids potty train in their 3's (even if some of us would like to see it happen in their 2's). And as for those of you who responded that potty training was months of agony - I am probably totally with you. Good thing there are some good books out there for advice and help - I hope you all have been able to find some good support on the subject - it can be a frustrating one.

And sorry I didn't get this out yesterday, but I have been under the influence of the evil dreaded flu! Ick!

Potty Training Help ??? Some Things I Found

2008-11-06T17:15:00.000-08:00

Let's start off with a laugh:

Potty Training Anime Style!
(this is soooooo wrong)

This site seems to cover everything -

Potty Training Concepts

Ideas
Charts
Expert Advice
Lots More

For a News Story on Potty Training Boot Camps
Click Here

Here's Another Informative Site

And I liked THIS ARTICLE

Hope these are helpful!

New Topic - Potty Training (sigh)

2008-11-04T10:06:00.000-08:00

Yep - it's time for this most favorite topic of mommy-ing EVER!

Potty Training

I have very little to say on the matter other than the first one was the easiest (thanks to involvement from Santa) and it's been downhill from there.

So, this week is for venting or celebrating about potty training.

Laugh - cry - do what you gotta do.

And ... helpful hints and suggestions will be GREATLY appreciated!

The Best Costume Designer Goes To:

2008-11-03T15:42:00.000-08:00

MY MOM!!!

I wasn't sure what to do with the award this week - I was beginning to feel like a freak of nature ... especially when my sister-in-law called me a freak of nature - since no one seemed to be excited about the topic. I really do start thinking about costumes in July and I get totally excited about them. And since it brings so much satisfaction into my life, I'll keep to my freakish ways. Owing that I got them from my dear mom - she deserves this award. Wasn't that costume great??? I am so glad my friend Zombette had this picture handy - thank you.

And thanks Mom for the great costumes over the years.

And to everyone - I am loving them all, I have been checking out your blogs and some of you I actually saw in person. They are all very cute and I think everyone did a great job costuming the little ones this year.

Now time to get ready for Thanksgiving!

Do you need a little Mommy lift today?

2008-11-03T08:09:00.001-08:00

This article made me cry and hug my little sweetie more. It's perfect.

http://forums.parenting.com/blogs/parenting-post/posts/important-parenting-lessons-courtesy-very-stuffy-nose

The Costume Parade

2008-10-30T09:01:00.000-07:00

That's me in the ET costume, with my friend Zombette and her little sister

Cute little trick or treaters

I think she's too cute to be scary, try as she might

And she is just too darling

Scary

trying to be scary, but way too cute

we love spidey

really - just too cute

Aren't they cute?

Love the little witch

Bat Man - ready to fly

Go Spidey

Here's some of our friends and their cousins

Sleeping Beauty and a very cute witch

The Frog King

Bat Boy

Little Red Riding Hood

Mary Poppins

Some Great Sites for Moms (or anyone, really)

2008-10-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

The Pioneer Woman - if you haven't discovered her yet, you are missing out!

Family Fun Magazine - ALWAYS brimming with GREAT ideas.

Knack Parenting - this is my friends' magazine on contemporary parenting.

5 Minutes for Mom - motivation to do what we need to do!

Fresh Mommy - takes a beautiful snapshot of life and offers some fun ideas, too.

Elsa Beauty -tips on hair, make-up and anything beautiful, by a mom, for moms.

Little Momma and Company - great cooking ideas with kids, fun crafts, too.

Her Cup Overfloweth - The new host of Muffin Tin Monday - a very fun thing to do.

Flip Flops and Applesauce - very fun ideas of things to do with the kids.

If you have any favorite sites - add them to the comments and I will get them on the list!

Mommy Award Winners

2008-10-30T00:26:00.000-07:00

1. Best Diaper Change went to Kirsten
2. Best Class Mom went to Diane
3. Best Laundry Services went to Julie
4. Best Blusher went to Zombette
5. Best Reader went to Chera
6. Best Accountant went to Kamee
7. Best Socialite went to Amber
8. Best Tidy-Up-Er went to Tia
9. Best Sports Fan went to Chera
10. The Award for Costume Design went to My Mom!
11. The Potty Trainer award went to Amber
12. The Birther Award went to Aimee
13. The Nurse Award went to Julie

Just a Little Housekeeping

2008-10-30T00:07:00.000-07:00

Couldn't resist, saw the flower and had to go with it. Don't you all change the furniture around in your homes from time to time - I've got to do the same!

Everything should still be here (except the polls - have to start over) and then a few more items!

I am hoping you will all be willing to share your halloween costumes - at least your children's halloween costumes - I'll be adding ours in tomorrow (now that they are done)!

Okay - so I am a bit of a slacker!!! (New topic included)

2008-10-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

So, the last topic was not too popular - I am hoping that is because sports, in itself, is not too popular amongst you all. And I am hoping Chera will cut me some slack for not awarding her the Best Sports Fan in a timely manner! But I have been holed up in my bat cave lately sewing, sewing, sewing. (we'll get to that in a minute).

Anyhow, congratulations Chera - you have won the:

Aren't you glad I didn't word it the way they did in Grease and call it the Athletic Supporter Award??? Hee hee. I absolutely love your plan of taking time to read a good book while hubby watches a game - sounds like a great arrangement!

Anyhow I am starting the new topic now because it totally relates to my activities of the past few days that will all come to fruition on FRIDAY - yes, Halloween. (And Amber, we will be doing your suggestion next week - stay tuned).

So, what have I been sewing you ask? (maybe you didn't, but I'll pretend you did) Halloween Costumes, of course. This is absolutely, hands down, one of my favorite mommy jobs - clothing the kids up right for Halloween. I love to let them figure out what they want to be and then I get to figure out how to make it happen. It's a challenge I enjoy and have just a bit too much fun making it happen.

I ~~think~~ know that I get this from my mom. She created some spectacular things back in the day. But the all-time winner was this, when I was in 5th grade. There is a picture of me in it somewhere - but who knows where, so I will show you the pattern she used, and she is so good, it actually looked just like picture from McCall's.

I was definitely the hit of the school parade and I even got more candy than my friends because the costume really was that cool!

Okay - so are you all busy getting ready for Halloween, or have you been ready for a while?

Are you busy sewing or shopping? Do you take turns each year, one year you will buy, one year you will create? Or do you get someone else to do it for you? Do you enjoy the process or is it just me? What are your kids going to be for Halloween this year? What is the favorite costume creation you have ever made? What is one of your favorite costumes you have ever worn?

I am just a bit curious to know how you all handle the Halloween Costume Creating and I would LOVE to hear and SEE your ideas. You should all post them on your blogs so I can check them out, then I will put the pictures here, if you will allow, so everyone can take a peek! Seriously, lets have a little Halloween Costume Parade right here on the Mommy Awards. You won't have to pass out candy, I promise.

This Week's Topic: Sports

2008-10-21T08:21:00.000-07:00

Let me start off by saying this is about Professional Sports specifically. (We will be doing Soccer Moms/Hockey Moms later.)

I guess I am in a sporty mood - the World Series starts tomorrow and I love Baseball. I love the World Series. And tomorrow the Phillies take on the Rays - Rays having the home field advantage, but I am still cheering for the Phillies. Why? This is why!

This has led me to wonder what role sports play in your homes. Is is something your family enjoys together, is it something that takes you apart, is it something that doesn't even really come up at all?

Fortunately, I love baseball - so this is a fun time in our family. Bert and I both enjoy watching the games together and since there will possibly be 7 games - that is a lot of time for us to just sit back, relax and enjoy each other's company.

I also enjoy basketball - professional and college are very fun to watch. They are fast-paced and exciting. The NCAA tournaments and NBA playoffs are all something that I can definitely be wrangled into watching.

Basketball is even more fun when you have David Archuleta performing!!!

Unfortunately, I hate football - so the sports season that we are moving into will not be increasing family togetherness. I don't mind if Bert watches a game, and I can support his love for the Steelers, but I really just can't sit down and watch with him. I don't get the game, I don't like seeing grown men running around hitting each other. The only thing I love about football is that instead of a lengthy 7 games series (like with baseball and basketball) it all culminates in one, single, solitary game - the Superbowl. That part is really nice!

And I have a theory about Football. I really don't think most women like it, even if they say they do to their "man". The only reason I can say this is that I have gone to football games, for a man, not for me. I have watched a Superbowl or two, for a man, not for me. I have pretended to be interested in the game, for a man, not for me. Well, no more of that. Bert knows I love him, so my true feelings can come out - I hate football. Am I alone in this or does anyone out there feel the same? (If you can't come out and say it, but you really do feel the same - the polls on the side are anonymous.)

Anyhow, I guess my question to you all this week is about the role sports play in your homes. Do you love them, hate them, enjoy them? Are they a source of family togetherness or do they seem to take you away from each other? Or, do they hardly even exist in your world?

Always love to get your input!

We Have a New Mommy Award to Present to:

2008-10-20T12:38:00.000-07:00

Tia L.

Way to go - you are the Tidy-Up Mom of the Week.

Now that I am wrapping things up, I am wondering why I didn't ask you all some of your tips to make cleaning a more enjoyable and/or productive activity.

So, I think I will revisit this topic soon. I am looking to get all the tips I can get.

And we just need to let Tia enjoy her award - hee hee!

So, I found a lot of comfort in your responses last week - I was so glad to hear that I am not the only person that feels "okay" about the whole cleaning thing. I love the result, but the actual process is not too exciting to me. And for those of you who responded "great", would you mind emailing me so that I can know who you are - I think I need to spend more time with you so that some of your energy can rub off on me! And more of us think our homes are half clean, half needing more attention - that sounds like me, too. I long to have a home that is tidy all the time, but haven't figured that one out yet. Working on it, though.

Now, as far as the actual jobs - there were some winners amongst the favorite jobs: almost everyone prefers vacuuming and making beds - hmmmm - can we say instant gratification? Those are my favorites. And as for the least favorites - again, some agreement: scrubbing the toilet and cleaning out the fridge. As much as you get instant gratification from the toilet scrubbing, it still is not a fun process. And the fridge thing - it's so depressing to through out all that food you let go to waste. Bummer.

Anyhow, this was fun, and I really do want to know who answered "great" about housekeeping. And I want to send hugs to those who answered "hopeless".

Take care ladies!

Should I Ask Her For Help?

2008-10-16T20:30:00.001-07:00

So, I have been debating whether or not to ask my friend for a hand -

Here she is:

Do you think she would be willing to get those animals in my back yard to come in and help with the cleaning?

She's pretty good at being a fairytale princess (see for yourself) - I want to see just how good she really is!

New Topic - Tidying Up

2008-10-14T06:18:00.000-07:00

Ahhh - don't we all feel this way!

Or not ...

I definitely can relate to her waking up, perusing the scene and deducing, "Hmmmm, this won't do."

Unfortunately, my efforts to round up the rat in my backyard, the mean old scrub jays in my oak trees and the spiders outside my backdoor, have all been in vain. I am pretty sure I not an actual fairytale princess, so I am on my own to make sure the tidying up happens.

For help, I have turned to FlyLady to at least give me some pep and motivation, and her system really works. I still have a long way to go, but we are getting there. If you haven't visited her site - it's definitely worth a look. And her book, "Sink Reflections" is marvelous.

So, what motivates you to tidy up after all the people in your lives? How do you attack the work, how much do you assign out? (My oldest just turned 8 and I have heard stories of people having kids do their own laundry when they turn 8 - I am torn - she can't even reach the buttons on the machine. She puts her laundry away, but I don't know when to expect her to do it all.) How do you keep a smile on your face while your three year old is completely destroying a room while you are busy cleaning another?

Love to hear your success and your horror stories -

One of my successes (which is why I am posting this today): After three months of having bedrooms unsettled due to changing everyone around before the baby was born, WE ARE ALL SETTLED!!! Yesterday it finally happened - we all have an organized, happy place to rest our heads each night with clothes neatly placed in drawers and closets, toys packed in bins and books aligned on the shelves. Ahhhhhhhh, I'm drinking it in!

Of course, what would life be like without the horror stories: One day as I was slaving away on laundry in the basement, I came up to find my two sweet little girls (then only 1 and 2 years old) covered in flour, not to mention, the floor and kitchen counters were also covered. I probably didn't react so well to this situation, although I am pretty sure I didn't rip their heads off, since they still have them.

Anyhow, love to hear your cleaning woes and ahhhhhs.

Wahoo - Our Winner is:

2008-10-13T08:23:00.000-07:00

Amber

You are the social planner of the year! Way to go! :)

Quick little personal story - just this last week I received an email from Amber about a boutique she was having. I quickly responded that I was sorry I couldn't make it because I had a big family event taking place on Saturday afternoon. Well - her boutique was on a Thursday afternoon, and it was all very clear in the email - see why we don't leave the calendaring up to me in our home! Yikes! Amber seems to have things running very well - so good job! (All of you who responded seemed to have some very nice ideas to make things run smoothly).

I am working on the color coding actually and this is what I have right now:

(note: yes there is a big yellow sunshine on No School Days - I'm as bad as the kids - no I am worse!)

Here are a few more cool calendars I have found:

FlyLady has a cool one - Check it out Here.

Target sells one by Real Simple - it's color coded!

I found this beauty on Etsy - it's lovely.

And this one, at the Quilted Bear Boutique website was kind of fun, too! (not very useful, but fun.)

My sil has a cool one by Post-it that has all sorts of great color coding ideas - couldn't find a picture but she bought it at Walmart.

This Melissa and Doug one looks GREAT for the kids.

And just to wrap it all up - ladies really are the social planners - most of you are the ones to keep track of things in your families. And most of you are able to rely on both your memory and the calendar - way to go. And most of us are bustling with activity - and for the one who answered that if one more thing is added to their calendar she will burst - we send our love your way! Good luck!

Again - thanks for playing, I appreciate the good ideas I get from you all.

Happy Mothering!

New Topic - Social Planner

2008-10-07T07:24:00.000-07:00

This scene is from one of the funniest movies EVER! (IMHO)

(Aaahhhhh - really, if you haven't seen this movie - you have missed out!)

Seeing this segment leads me to ask everyone - who is the social planner in your family? Is it a shared responsibility? Is it in danger if left in somebody's hands? Is it something you enjoy? Do you keep your social planner full? Do you prefer to keep it to a minimum?

When I was first married, it seemed natural that I would keep track of that sort of stuff. However, after several miscommunications (or lack thereof) we quickly realized, as did all our family members, that I was not the one for this job. I was very good at double booking us or just forgetting things all together. Not a great way to make a good impression on your new in laws!

So, to save face for me, Bert pretty much took charge and now it is a joint venture. Every Monday night we sit down as a family and go over everything we have for the week. He can keep track of all sorts of things in his head - I live by the calendar! If I don't see it, it pretty much doesn't exist in my world.

Sharing the responsibility and making sure we communicate these things on a regular basis has helped us tremendously. We don't doublebook anymore and we make it to everything we say we are going to make it to.

What about you? Especially as we are heading into the holidays, how have you learned to keep track of all the events in your busy lives? I don't know what we will do when our kids morph into teens and start having all sorts of other activities to attend - YIKES! I can barely keep track of things now. I will have to find a great calendar system for a busy family. What do you all do? Love to hear your ideas, and I will be posting great ideas I find this week - hoping to learn a lot!

And Our Accountant Winner is ...

2008-10-06T08:16:00.000-07:00

Kamee

Holy Cow - with comments like "I love it", she deserves to win. It doesn't hurt that she actually worked for tax people! Anyhow, let me just say that I am totally impressed from the responses. I am glad there are people out there that love it. I do it, but I don't love it.

Perhaps it's due to an experience I had a few years ago. I probably shouldn't tell this, but I think my Father-in-law knows that I love him, and I know that he loves me - so it's all good! In all fairness, there is one thing you need to know about my father-in-law before reading this story - he is a business man that can totally remove emotion from the situation. It is a great quality for him and has helped him achieve great success in his life. I, on the other hand, am an emotional creature, this is what happens when you put the two of us together to work on taxes:

A few years ago we sold a duplex we owned and the taxes the following year were a little bit trickier than what I was used to. So, I went to my Father-in-law for help (no, I don't have People). Our second daughter was just a month old at the time and we all (me, Bert, the two little girls) went up to his dad's to get this all sorted out.

I'm a pretty normal mom, I get very distracted when I hear my baby crying and that was the case this day. Bert was trying to take care of the little ones, but something happened and the baby was crying. I went to go and check on her and ended up getting chewed out by my father in law for not paying attention when he was trying to help me. Ugh! it was awful, I started crying right there in front of everyone! We did end up getting the taxes completed and all was well, but that was not a fun day. (And I can look back on it all now and just laugh!)

This is what comes to mind every year when I open up the tax books. Someday I am really going to need to get "People". Or, maybe someday I will like all this stuff, but for now I just concentrate on getting it done.

So, to you all that actually like this stuff - Way to go - I am beyond impressed. Maybe I'll have to come get pep talks from you when tax season hits next year.

Anyhow, looks like, in general, women are the main ones to take care of financial business in the home - way to go ladies! And even better, the majority of you are confident in your skills. I am very impressed and even a little more hopeful, "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can!"

Thanks for playing!

Most Boring Topic EVER!

2008-09-30T07:37:00.001-07:00

So, what do you do when you are really wanting to generate some good discussion and provide meaningful feedback to moms who are in need of support and friendship? If you are me, you pick the most boring topic that could be introduced! What am I thinking? I'll tell you what I am thinking, I am celebrating the fact that I actually made progress in this area this week - due mostly to the 3 hour nap The King took yesterday!

I have been trying to get the bills all caught up for weeks now, we had The King in July and have been coasting, getting the essentials taken care of (food, gas, electricity, phone, internet), but doctor bills and car registration and some other odds and ends have been piling up to dangerous heights and I have been dreading dealing with all the numbers and figures, mostly because I just didn't feel like I had the brain power to make sure it all worked.

So, Yay Me! The doctor bills are ALL taken care of - whew! And the car registration should happen today, since it is the last day of the month. Please feel free to check up on me to make sure I get it done.

Anyhow, this is one aspect of motherhood that is so absolutely BORING! I hate balancing the checkbook, I hate doing taxes, I hate keeping up on all the bills, but it needs to be done. This week I am not even looking for stories, just some encouragement and/or tips and/or ANYTHING AT ALL in reference to how you keep up on all this *stuff* (that's the nice word, I have other words I would be happy to use instead).

If I don't get help, this could end up happening to our dog!

Tell me how you do it ladies!

I'm counting on you!

The Mommy Award Goes To :

2008-09-29T08:44:00.001-07:00

Chera F.

Big Surprise! Hee hee. She's definitely a reader, in fact she has become my own personal library. Thanks to her I have had many good reads lately. So, her darling, lucky children will have lots of great reading moments with their mommy over the years. Funny thing - this really was a random draw. Anyhow, thanks for the book suggestions, we have a little list ready for our next trip to the public library - yes, we go there, too.

And the results show that most of us read about 5-10 books with our kids each day, and we like for those to be funny books. And most of us are willing and ready to read anything we can get our hands on. (Here in blogger land, I was pretty sure we would mostly be readers - that's what we do.) I was actually one of the pickier ones, but I am sure if you look at my goodreads list you will wonder about that - (those are books she was actually picky about choosing?) Yikes!

Anyhow, keep on reading, it is one of the best things we can do for our own minds and the minds of our children. It's a great way to learn and be entertained, hopefully this next generation will continue to open their imaginations to books.

Here are some websites/blogs devoted to Children's Literature:

http://www.cynthialeitichsmith.com/lit_resources/literacy.html

http://planetesme.blogspot.com/

http://www.clairesbooklist.com/

http://dadtalk.typepad.com/book_buds_kidlit_reviews/

New Topic - Favorite Books to read to Kids

2008-09-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

These are some of my all time favorite books to read to the kids (but that list could go on and on and on). These books are fun to read because they have great little stories, fabulous illustrations and a fun cadence. I have to admit, I love to read Olivia because I get to act like a little spoiled drama queen - what fun! I love to read Click Clack Moo, because I just like to say that over and over again. And then there is Mr. Brown Can Moo - all of those sounds are so fun to create, sometimes we can't stop making the sounds.

This week is simple - I just want to know what books you love to read to children. Which ones put a smile on your face or are tender enough to make you hug your child in even closer while you read. Which ones do you remember your mom or dad reading to you when you were a child.

Reading books is one of the great joys of motherhood - it is a special time to just spend with your child enjoying a wonderful little story and message and instilling a love of reading in a new generation. So, share your favorite stories here, I hope to get some new book recommendations to read with my own little ones!

Happy Mothering!

And The Best Blusher Award Goes To ...

2008-09-22T06:24:00.000-07:00

Zombette!!!

(no, that's not her real name - it's her married name - hee hee)

I was hoping Bert had that one - he would have been so proud to receive a Mommy Award! Joking - I am actually very glad that someone besides myself shared an experience and I'm even gladder (probably not a word) that I get to give it to one of me dearest, oldest friends (I'm not saying she's old - because then I would say the same about myself - not gonna happen). Thanks for playing dear! And thanks for not leaving the party when your cute little lady bug decided to show the world her spicy side. A little breather, however, can be a very helpful tool for us all.

Anyhow, I am really hoping that those of us that have embarrassing moments are not in the minority - but if we are, please make sure you are always kind to us when you see us out in public. Let's remember to be patient with those that are in the middle of something exasperating and to be friendly to those who are laughing at themselves. Being reduced to feeling like an idiot is never fun, but finding a way to laugh at it it helps tremendously (and having someone laugh with you actually helps - it makes you feel more like a comedian than just a crazy lady)!

Yeah- enough rambling - just fyi - it looks like those of us who do have embarrassing moments are able to look at them for their rich content and figure they will spice up our blogs. So, the humiliation can bring us some blogging attention. It's a trade off, your dignity for a lot of comments on your blog - take your pick!

Tune in tomorrow - I still can't decide on the new topic. I had it all figured out until I attended that really cute baby shower at Chera's - got the wheels turning in another direction.

That said - Happy Mothering Everyone!

Not Judging Others

2008-09-17T10:42:00.000-07:00

With this topic of experiencing embarrassing moments - I thought I would share a link to a beautiful post I just read today by one of my favorite bloggers.

You can find it here: http://accordingtolei.blogspot.com/

Look for the post titled "Judging Others"

It's worth reading, she is very sweet and very insightful!

And next time we find someone in one of those situations, let's remember to either laugh WITH them (if they are laughing) or put our arm around them and let them know they aren't alone (if they are NOT laughing)!

Jenny

New Topic - Embarrassing Moments in Mommy-ing

2008-09-16T05:57:00.000-07:00

We all have them - those moments your kids say something that make you just want to crawl under a rock. The times when your parents find out just how much fast food is really consumed in your home, the times certain personal items are pulled out of your purse into public view, the times a Sunday School teacher is informed that mommy and daddy said they don't ever want to have any more kids. Ugh!

These little moments happen quite often, yet always seem to make us shudder just a bit, bow our blushing head and hope that our memories won't serve any of us well. Kids will say whatever comes to mind, whether good or bad. And some of these embarrassing moments happen even before our kids talk (but can still be attributed to them) ... leaking breasts, a laugh or sneeze that leads to leaking in other places, falling asleep in church meetings in your sleep deprived state.

Aahhhh, the joys of motherhood!

My sister sent this to me last week as she was reminded of something that recently happened to Bert, a proud parenting moment for him! This story just about had me crying, I was laughing so hard. This mom had one of those moments and it was a goodie:

A 3-year-old tells all from his mother's restroom stall. By Shannon Popkin

My little guy, Cade, is quite a talker. He loves to communicate and does it quite well. He talks to people constantly, whether we're in the library, the grocery store or at a drive-thru window. People often comment on how clearly he speaks for a just-turned-3-year-old. And you never have to ask him to turn up the volume. It's always fully cranked. There've been several embarrassing times that I've wished the meaning of his words would have been masked by a not-so-audible voice, but never have I wished this more than last week at Costco. Halfway, through our shopping trip, nature called, so I took Cade with me into the rest-room. If you'd been one of the ladies in the rest-room that evening, this is what you would have heard coming from the second to the last stall:

'Mommy, are you gonna go potty? Oh! Why are you putting toiwet paper on the potty, Mommy? Oh! You gonna sit down on da toiwet paper now? Mommy, what are you doing? Mommy, are you gonna go stinkies on the potty?'

At this point I started mentally counting how many women had been in the bathroom when I walked in. Several stalls were full ... 4? 5? Maybe we couldwait until they all left before I had to make my debut out of this stall and reveal my identity

Cade continued, 'Mommy, you ARE going stinkies aren't you? Oh, datsa good girl, Mommy! Are you gonna get some candy for going stinkies on the potty? Let me see doze stinkies, Mommy! Oh.. Mommy! I'm trying to see in dere Oh! I see dem. Dat is a very good girl, Mommy. You are gonna get some candy!'

I heard a few faint chuckles coming from the stalls on either side of me. Where is a screaming newborn when you need her? Good grief. This was really getting embarrassing. I was definitely waiting a long time before exiting.

Trying to divert him, I said, 'Why don't you look in Mommy's purse and see if you can find some candy we'll both have some!'

' No, I'm trying to see doze more stinkies. Oh! Mommy!' He started to gag at this point. 'Uh oh, Mommy I fink I'm gonna frow up.Mommy, doze stinkies are making me frow up!! Dat is so gross!!'

As the gags be came louder, so did the chuckles outside my stall. I quickly flushed the toilet in hopes of changing the subject. I began to reason with myself: OK. There are four other toilets. If I count four flushes, I can be reasonably assured that those who overheard this embarrassing monologue will be long gone.

'Mommy! Would you get off the potty, now? Iwant you to be done going stinkies! Get up! Get up!' Hegrunted as he tried to pull me off. Now I could hearfull-blown laughter. I bent down to count the feet outside my door.

'Oh, are you wooking under dere, Mommy? You wooking under da door? What were you wooking at, Mommy? You wooking at the wady's feet?'

More laughter. I stood inside the locked door and tried to assess the situation.

'Mommy, it's time to wash our hands, now. We have to go out now, Mommy.' He started pounding onthe door. 'Mommy, don't you want to wash your hands? I want to go out!!'

I saw that my 'wait'em out' plan was unraveling. I sheepishly opened the door, and found standing outside my stall, twenty to thirty ladies crowded around the stall, all smiling and starting to applaud. My first thought was complete embarrassment, then I thought, 'Where's the fine print on the'motherhood contract' where I signed away every bit of my dignity and privacy?'

But as my little boy gave me a big, cheeky grin while he rubbed bubbly soap between his chubby little hands, I thought, I'd sign it all away again, just to be known as Mommy to this little fellow.

(Shannon Popkin is a freelance writer and mother of three. She lives with her family in Grand Rapids , Michigan, where she no longer uses public restrooms.)

Most likely, none of us can top that, but I think we can all agree, that signing away our dignity is a small price to pay to have these beautiful children in our lives. However, I have to admit, I am dying to hear your stories about the things your kids say that make you blush!

I'll share one that happened to Bert at the fair last week in the comments! He'd be so honored to receive a Mommy Award! ;)

And This Week's Mommy Award Goes To....

2008-09-15T08:44:00.000-07:00

JULIE W.!!!

Congrats on having the best laundry services around - or at least getting your name drawn out of a hat!!! But I have seen your clothes and you and your family always look nice and clean. Good job and thanks for sharing your laundry woes. Maybe we can all take a little lesson from Julie and start using Borax in the laundry. Now I think I will get back to my laundry - we didn't get it all done last week and I have a mini Mt. Washmore I better tackle before it gets out of control.

And just so you all know - most of us use Tide, Bounce, and Spray and Wash. Most of us Don't use Borax, but maybe that will change now, and we're tackling 4-6 loads a week - not too bad. And, for the record, 3 of us totally want the new front loading washer/dryer sets (although I think that number is probably higher - unless you all already have them!!!).

Check back tomorrow for the new topic - this is based on an email I just received from my sister and an experience we had at the fair recently! Can't wait to share!

Anyone Have These?

2008-09-12T08:05:00.001-07:00

I have to admit if there is one thing out there I have been wanting, wanting, wanting (yes, I am panting slightly), it would be these:

Aren't they lovely? I like so many things about them:

First, the looks - how fun would it be to do laundry in a machine you actually feel compelled to wax and buff? (I am that shallow -that looks come FIRST when I think of a washer and dryer.)

Second, the energy efficiency - loving the idea of using less water and getting cleaner clothes!

Third, the storage - isn't this the best idea for a laundry room, a CONVENIENT place to store all your detergents and fabric softeners, not to mention a Christmas decoration or two?

Fourth, the technology - no more dials - just buttons that beep and chirp to let you know what is going on.

But, we have no need to purchase anything at this time - our current set seems to be plugging along just fine - for which I am mostly grateful. But the part of me that really wants, wants, wants the new set wonders what might need to happen to expedite the acquisition of a new set. That's when the following came to mind: (I must be having a Seinfeld week...)

Yes, this is what I do while I am driving the kids to school - they are all jabbering away in the back seats and I can just go to wherever my thoughts desire. I don't need Calgon to take me away honey, my old Honda Odyssey does just fine!

So, what do you think? Anyone up for a quick trip to Lowe's?

Air Your Dirty Laundry and Get This Week's Award!

2008-09-08T22:12:00.000-07:00

Alas this lovely laundry room isn't mine, but one can only hope. Mine is in a basement, so I am already coveting the large windows - I think I'll get over it! This is the perfect picture to introduce this week's not-so-perfect topic.

This week's award is all about the never ending chore of laundry. Just doing laundry is worthy of all sorts of praise and applause - and you all probably don't get that. Hopefully you get a thank you or two along the way - but who's counting? So, this week - let's take credit for our work with the laundry.

If any of you are familiar with FlyLady, you might have heard the term - Mt. Washmore - that's the formation that builds in our laundry rooms when we put it off for too long. Or, it can instanteously appear at the end of a wonderful vacation. Some of us might have Mt. Washmore building right now, or we might have everything all nicely sorted and going through the machines as we speak. I am right in the middle. We were getting into a good rhythm and then my baby decided he needed me to hold him all day yesterday. So, I held my baby (not too hard of a decision for me) and neglected the laundry and the piles are a little higher than I like, but we'll get to them.

What are your laundry thoughts? Do you love doing laundry, do you despise it? How many loads do you do a week? Have you had any disasters, like dryers catching on fire, or our personal family favorite, the drain backing up and flooding the basement? Let's just get it all out there (dirty laundry and all) and celebrate each others triumphs over the piles! (even if we don't necessarily feel triumphant) You love it, you hate it - whatever the case, tell me about it! Sing your praises - now might be your only chance :)

Results From Last Week!

2008-09-08T12:06:00.000-07:00

Well - I had my little guy pick a name out of the hat and it looks like "The Best Class Mom" award goes to Diane (and from the look of things she has been a busy Class Mom). So, congratulations to you and to everyone for taking time to work with kids!

As far as how you like to help in the classroom - Most of us like to help with Field Trips. I must agree, it is so cute to accompany a group of Kindergartners to a farm - they are just so stinkin' cute! The other favorite areas to help were: Reading with the kids, Bulletin Boards, Decorating for the Holidays, Planning Parties and Bringing Treats! Lucky KIDS! And aren't we lucky to be able to go play with them.

Shameless Plea for Participation ...

2008-09-04T21:17:00.000-07:00

So far I am the only one with any class mom stories ... which is funny because I know there are more stories out there! This week is even a real prize that will be given to a random draw winner - but so far it's between me and me!!! So, all we are looking for is little nominations of any kind, tell us if you brought cupcakes or helped clean desks after school or watched the kids at recess. And if you haven't been involved yet because your kids are little, tell me what you remember a mom doing for you when you were in school.

I know you can think of something - you're a mom and mom's can think of 20 things all at once!

Let's celebrate moms in the classroom (whether at home or school). It's a fun place to be!

I'm looking for anyone but myself to contribute since I already have one of these CD's and I love it and I really don't need another one and I really want to give one away.

You know you want to ...

Come on ...

You can do it ...

You're almost there ...

Just click on "mommies sharing"...

Anyone can do it - no google account needed ...

Love ya'll!!!

New Award Topic - Best Class Mom!

2008-09-02T07:49:00.000-07:00

Image found at http://www.bbbskw.org/ - thanks!

As school is starting, we find ourselves getting involved with our children's classes. So this award is for those who help out in any class, in any way. I have several friends that homeschool and being a "Class Mom" takes on even more significance. I can't wait to hear your stories about helping out children.

I have been a teacher and a classroom mom, so I have seen from both perspectives how important it is for parent's to be involved in their children's education. Da, da, da, da.... (scary music) this is my big Soapbox topic .... In my opinion, this is what makes Utah schools successful. We have some of THE LOWEST spending in the nation, but our scores are some of the highest. I think that a lot of that can be accredited to the involvement of families in their children's lives. As that demographic factor changes, I think you will see Utah's scores slide down significantly. (okay - I'm off my soapbox now).

Now, for those of you who haven't been in the classroom yet, think back to when you were a kid. Was there a mom that came in often to read? Was there a mom who taught you the Hokey Pokey? What about the mom that was always out in the playground making sure kids were safe? There are so many ways moms can help out in the classroom, where would we be without them?

One example of a Class Mom that comes to mind is (Warning - this is an extreme example) my Sister-in-law Linsey. She is either incredible or crazy, still wondering about that one, but man she can pull off some GREAT class parties. (Linsey - you know I think the world of you :) ) Imagine turning the classroom into a train, providing the children beautiful tickets and taking them to the north pole to meet Santa (yes, a recreation of the Polar Express). Don't ask how many hours she spent planning that one, none of us can count that high. Then, she did a fun Candyland themed Valentine's Day party which inspired me to do THIS for my daughter's Kindergarten Field Day last spring.

There are so many ways we can help out in our children's education - I would love to hear what you do, even if it isn't in a formal classroom, even if it isn't an incredible class party. I would love to hear the stories of things you have done or things you remember from your youth ... what did your mom do for you (or grandma or aunt or best friend's mom - there's so many we can turn to on this topic).

And for those of you that need some inspiration as to how to help out in your child's classroom - I am in charge of the Classroom Volunteers for my kids' school and found these articles, they are EXTREMELY helpful in my planning:

Article #1

Article #2

Article #3

I think that's about it -

OH YEAH - My Brother-in-law Lamar (yes Linsey's husband) has a CD out titled Classroom Pop, vol. 1. This OLD POST of mine tells a little more about the CD - you'll want one. I think I'll give away a copy of his CD to The Best Class Mom winner this week. And, I am assuming I will have to do a drawing again - so don't worry if you don't think you have an incredible story, share the story you have, whatever it is. Or share your mom's story and if you win, you can give her the CD and then she'll probably give it back to you saying, "You can use this more than me" - aren't moms wonderful that way?

Happy helping everyone! and Happy Sharing!

Results From Last Week!

2008-08-31T21:30:00.000-07:00

Well, that was fun. Who doesn't like to share poopy war stories. When it came down to it, each of your stories had enough ickiness that I really couldn't choose - so I drew a winner from among you all and (drum roll please) KIRSTEN - YOU WIN THE BEST DIAPER CHANGE AWARD! Doesn't that feel good? I hope so - you deserve it! And I hope the stains came out of your blouse!

And for a prize - I will send you some coupons for diapers!!! :) That's why we need some sponsors - my prizes stink!

As for the polls - just to sum everything up:
Most of us are in "The Thick of It" , with several diapering more than one kid (that's me).
Most of us have Helpful Hubbies and to the ONE person who said their hubby had changed maybe two diapers - we all send our sympathy!
Most of us buy Huggies.
and Most of us are changing 4-6 diapers a day, not too bad! (I'm about twice that!!!)

Thanks for playing and keep it up - there will be a new topic on Tuesday! I am posting the winner a bit early (normally it will be on Mondays) because I will be out of town on Monday visiting my Grandma.

Remember - if the topic doesn't necessarily apply to you, you can always tell something about someone else. And, if they win, well, all the better - you won an award for them!

Happy Mothering Everyone!
Good night.

He Got Me Again!

2008-08-28T12:26:00.000-07:00

This is a view of my shirt today ... RIGHT before I got in the shower and threw my clothes in the laundry. Man he's good!

After seeing this photo online, I need to work on those triceps - Yikes!

Best Diaper Change Award

2008-08-26T07:33:00.000-07:00

(image found at http://www.cookiemag.com/ - thanks)

Let's get started! In her book, "I Am a Mother", Jane Clayson Johnson stated that there is no award for Best Diaper Change ... Well, today there is. I want to hear your stories about diaper changes. We had a whopper on Saturday and it took two of us. Our littlest (not quite 2 months old) is battling a little constipation and we never know when the floodgates are going to open. So, in the middle of our Wedding Marathon, we stopped home for a bit and had the little guy up on his changing table getting a fresh diaper change. I was aware that he was starting to grunt - that's when it starts. The diaper is open and stuff starts coming out. We weren't sure if he was done, so my husband starts to wipe down the mess. Sure enough ... he gets it! And while he's a little disturbed by what has just happened, I get the sprinkler. This little guy got us both in a matter of seconds. What a stinker. But, it all was cleaned up soon (thanks to having 2 of us involved) and the diaper was changed - Wahoo!

What are your diaper change war stories? How have you dealt with little "sprinklers"? Bring on your worst stories - they are so entertaining. And in this case, the worst will definitely receive the award for the best.

Oh dear, there's that familiar smell - gotta go!

Introducing ... The Mommy Awards!

2008-08-25T10:19:00.000-07:00

I have just read a book about Motherhood that I found particularly uplifting and inspiring. It is by Jane Clayson Johnson and it is called, "I Am a Mother". If you don't know her story, it is unique in its significance, although, something so many of us can relate to. Jane Clayson was hosting a national morning news show and had just been offered a big promotion. She had also just married and was desirous to start a family. So, she turned down the great job offer, quit her television journalism altogether and became a Mom!

There is a part of her book that spoke to me the other night (quite literally - which is why I am doing this). It is this excerpt from the first chapter I'd like to share:

"I know what I gave up so that I could be a mother during this season of my life. But I also know what I gave it up for. I traded in fancy lunches in fancy restaurants for rice cereal and bunny-shaped macaroni and cheese. There's no one to do my hair and makeup anymore. Some mornings I'm lucky to squeeze in a shower. When I get up at 4:00 am these days, it's not to be chauffeured to a television studio. Instead, you'll find me huddled near a nightlight, lulling a little baby (or two!) back to sleep. No more pats on the back for booking exclusive interviews. They don't give awards for best diaper change of the day. And I don't get a paycheck that can be cashed at any bank. Now my compensation comes in packages money can't buy."

"Indeed, every mother who prayerfully chooses her own path in life -- no matter where that path leads -- does not have to apologize for being a mother. As she loves her children, as she sacrifices -- in her own way and within her own capabilities -- she will be led by the Savior and buoyed up by his loving care as she works to rear 'the offspring' of God (Acts 17: 28). In this, she will have acquired true success."

My hope is to bring mothers together and celebrate our true successes. Each day we do little things, big things, mundane things and marvelous things, whether we realize it or not at the time, these are true successes. Perhaps when Jane wrote this book there was no award for "Best Diaper Change", but today there is!

Let's have fun, nominating ourselves, our mothers, our sisters, our neighbors, whomever comes to mind as we explore the daily functions of mothering.

Marvelous to Mundane Mommy Awards will be given on Mondays. So, you can start each Tuesday checking out the topic of the week and then making nominations in the comment section. Each weekly topic will have polls, stories and hopefully, LOTS of great comments from you - we love to hear each others stories. And, quite honestly, we all love to tell our stories (isn't that why we are all out here blogging?).

Check in each Tuesday for the new topic, share with us and check back on Monday to see who gets "The Mommy Award of the Week".