Let's talk about change.

Isn't it crazy to think about how you used to be? I mean really think back to the way you thought and acted five, ten, twenty years ago. It's a little bewildering right? I look back at how I thought and acted as a kid in high school and I'm kind of in disbelief and yea..slightly embarassed at times. I thought some crazy stuff, I acted in some crazy ways ( let's put it this way: my senior picture is me as a blonde..enough said). I used to think I had everything figured out, I thought I knew who I was and how I felt but my thoughts and opinions have changed repeatedly over the years. Don't get me wrong I still have my personal beliefs and morals that have remained solid...I'm mostly talking about thoughts and feelings you have while growing up, while finding yourself.

I remember being a lot more trusting of myself and others. I'm not sure if that's just simply the illusion of being bulletproof that all youth have or the fact that I really didn't know much about the world. I remember being more outgoing, confident and carefree. While some of those traits are still there, just slightly buried I think they've just been replaced by the more mature adult side of myself that I've grown into.

That's what it's about really...growing. I think the most you grow as a person is when you become a parent. You don't realize how much your thoughts and actions change until you start looking back at them. I think that's natural though, you suddenly find yourself in charge of this tiny, fragile, helpless human and it's not only your job to help them grow physically, emotionally, and spiritually but it's your responsibility. It's literally all on you to help this tiny little being adapt and grow in this ever-changing world. It can be so daunting and I think it's only natural that we find ourselves growing and changing right along with them.

I was holding my two-year old little munchkin on my lap last night, and I kissed the top of her little head as she played on my phone and I thought about how before I got pregnant I swore I'd never let her even touch a phone until she was six. That was before she hit terrible twos, teething, and tantrums. That was before balancing a grocery list, coupons, grocery cart, and a screaming toddler. Soothing her by letting her play on my phone so I could have just fifteen minutes of calm while we careened down the isles of Walmart trying to get everything done is one of the latest mommy sins I've adapted into my mommy arsenal. It works and hey...I don't knock it because sometimes that's what life is about.

Sometimes it's about going back on those things you used to think and feel to adapt to this fast-changing world. Sometimes it's giving in on a cell phone, sometimes it's having to ask someone for help, sometimes it's having to be the bad guy, sometimes it's admitting you were wrong. Life is all about change and I think if we go into it thinking with our hearts and minds open the easier it will be. Yes, we're going to make mistakes...LOTS of mistakes ( senior picture remember) but that's the beauty in life, you can learn from them. You can grow from them and while you might feel a little guilty about going back on a certain way you used to think try not to be so hard on yourself. You're doing your best, and look....you're only human. Life wouldn't be fun if we all stuck to a road map, life is all about getting stuck in ditches and finding out what works for someone else might not work for us and that's ok because we need to find our own paths and we need to accept that fact towards others too.

Whatever you're holding onto from your old self, whatever negative thoughts, feelings or mistakes you might have harbored from your old life and your old self just give them up. Recognize that you're a human and you're growing. Try to love yourself like you love that little human you're helping to grow and learn. Move on from mistakes and recognize that faults make us stronger. Changing our old thoughts and opinions means we're growing. Loving and accepting others' faults, mistakes and changes means you're a decent human being. We shouldn't be so embarassed about the way we once were or the thoughts we once held. We need to focus instead on our future and our now. Next time you think back to some of those old choices you made and feelings you had I hope you give yourself the grace to let them simply go, and let yourself instead be happy with the person you are now and not dissapointed in the person you once were. Life is about change and changing with it means we're alive and growing...it's a good thing.

Oils to avoid during pregnancy

Essential Oils That Should Be Avoided 

During Pregnancy 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

One of my biggest pet peeves is when people say things like "Oh it's naturally based so its got to be gentle" or "We use only natural ingredients so our stuff is 100% safe".  That statement just simply isn't true. Just because something comes from nature doesn't mean it's safe. Poison Ivy is found in nature, poisonous snakes are found in nature, there are countless poisonous herbs and berries that are highly toxic and yes....found in nature. God gave us oodles of healing herbs and tools, but he also put a lot of other really harmful stuff out there too and it's our job to educate ourselves on which is which. 

Now don't get me wrong..I get the statement that they're trying to make. I understand that they mean to say we're a safer alternative than those harmful chemical-laden companies and yes for the most part I agree. However sometimes even those "natural" products containing safe, natural ingredients should be avoided sometimes....such as when you're pregnant. Essential oils are not excluded from this.

Essential oils are a FANTASTIC way to naturally treat and heal a variety of things. Essential oils are amazing, however during pregnancy there are some that should be avoided. The jury is still out on a lot of the facts with essential oils and pregnancy mainly because there just isn't much research done on the topic however these are the most commonly known and warned against.

Let me also say, I only condone using essential oils that are 100% pure, tested, and safe. For that reason I recommend Spark Naturals. No, they are not the only pure EO company out there, but they are the only ones I trust during my pregnancy and know to be safe and pure. Also, like always you should consult your doctor if you ever have any questions or concerns with using essential oils. I am not a doctor, this is not medical advice, I'm simply a second time mommy who wanted to share my list of oils I avoid during pregnancy. Alright so...without further ado..here we go:

Aniseed (Pimpinella anisum)
This oil is primarily trans-anethole which has been known to cause dermatitis in some individuals as well as producing estrogen-like reactions in the body. This oil is also not recommended for individuals with endometriosis or estrogen-dependant cancers.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Can irritate sensitive skin, also has emmenagogue properties which stimulate blood flow to the pelvic region.

Birch (Betula lenta)
This oil has high concentration of methyl salicylate, which should be avoided by both pregnant women and anyone with epilepsy.

Calamus (Acorus calamus)
Contains a compound called asorone which can cause convulsions and hallucinations. Asorone is considered to be carcinogenic.

Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora)
This oil is classed as a convulsant and neurotoxin. Overdosing can cause convulsions and vomiting. Individuals with epilepsy and asthma should not use this oil either.

Cassia (Cinnamomum cassia)
This oil is known for being a dermal irritant, dermal sensitizer and a mucus membrane irritant.

Cinnamon Bark (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
This oil is both a strong sensitizer and an irritant. It should not be used in any skin care products or massage blends.

Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)
This oil can in some cases induce uterine contractions and bleeding, is also an oestrogenic. Also avoid this oil while drinking as it can cause a narcotic affect when mixed with alcohol.

Clove (Eugenia caryophyllata)
It may cause skin irritation and irritate mucus membranes.Individuals with kidney and liver conditions should avoid this oil as well.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
Like Aniseed it contains high amounts of trans-anethole which has been known to cause dermatitis in some individuals as well as producing estrogen-like reactions in the body. This oil is also not recommended for individuals with endometriosis, estrogen-dependant cancers, or women breastfeeding.

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)
This oil contains pinocamphone which gives off toxic affects. This oil should also be avoided by people suffering from epilepsy.

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Has been known to cause skin irritations.

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
This oil is toxic, causes irritations, and produces narcotic effects on both the brain and the nervous system. Under no circumstances should this oil be used by a pregnant woman.

Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
This oil is a known as a skin and mucus membrane irritant.

Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)
This is a highly toxic, poisonous, abortifacient oil. Under no circumstances should this oil be used during pregnancy.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Just like Basil, this oil has emmenagogue properties which stimulate blood flow to the pelvic region and act as a uterine stimulant.

Sage (Salvia officinalis)
This oil is classified as an oral toxin, and in large doses can cause convulsions. This oil should not be used by individuals suffering from epilepsy or high blood pressure.

Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)
This oil can cause convulsions and epileptic-like attacks, and even small doses can be lethal. Under no circumstances should be used by a pregnant woman.

Terragon (Artemisia dracunculus)
This oil can be moderately toxic due to the methyl chavicol in the oil, and should be avoided during pregnancy. This oil should not be given to young children.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Known skin and mucus membrane irritant. Breastfeeding women, and children should also avoid this oil.

Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanoides)
Recommended to use cautiously during pregnancy.

White Fir (Abies alba)
Can cause skin irritation, use cautiously.

Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens)
Just like with Birch this oil has high concentration of methyl salicylate, which should be avoided by both pregnant women and anyone with epilepsy. Additionally, because this oil is an anti-coagulant it may increase the effect of pharmaceutical blood thinners.

Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
This oil contains an extremely high amount of thujone which is a convulsant and neurotoxin. Under no circumstances should this oil be used by a pregnant woman.


Alright, well there it is. My list of essential oils to avoid during pregnancy. Since finding out I'm pregnant I'm having to look over all of my labels to make sure the face washes, masks, lotions, etc that I'm using contain none of these oils. I use Perfectly Posh products which although they are naturally based they still have products I have to avoid while pregnant..like their Wakey Wakey skin stick that has Rosemary essential oil in it. It's not hard you guys...I promise, just give your products a quick label check. After you've done that I think you've totally earned a nap, ooohh or maybe a foot massage, yes...opt for the foot massage. Feel free to message me with any questions and like I said earlier...this is a guide, consult your doctors. Good? Good. Love you guys!

DIY Laundry Detergent

Alright so if you haven't tried THIS incredible soap from Perfectly Posh do yourself a favor and try it now. 

Like...right now...I'll wait. Here's why:

1. INCREDIBLE citrus scent 

2. Organic soap base

3. SLS and Phthalate free fragrance

4. Lathers well and moisturizes luxuriously 

5. It's less than $10 for a HUGE bar! 

6. You can make the most heavenly scented laundry detergent EVER!

How you ask? Well let me show you, it's a lot more easier than you might have thought. 

You'll Need:

* One Perfectly Posh Chatter Chunk Bar 

* 1 1/2 Cups of Borax
* 1 1/2 Cups of Arm & Hammer Washing Soda
* 1/2 Cup of Baking Soda ( not pictured..sorry, but I honestly just use store brand) 
* Ninja or other chopping/grating equipment

Step One:

Take out a grater and well...grate the soap. This is the "hardest" part of the whole recipe, it can get a little tiring but the bar grates fairly well. You should end up with about 3 cups ( using a fairly large grater as pictured) I wouldn't stress if yours ends up being slightly more or less. 

Step Two:

Take the shreds and put them into your Ninja or other chopping device and pulverize them until they are as close to a powder as you can get. I usually can get a pretty good almost powder quality using the ninja for a few seconds. The photo is obviously the before lol 

Step Three:

Put your now freshly pulverized bar in a bowl and then in another separate bowl mix together the Borax, Washing Soda, and Baking Soda. Combine the powders thoroughly. How AMAZING does your house smell right now??

Step Four:

Combine the mixtures together and begin stirring so everything is as mixed together as it can be. Then pour it into an air-sealed container and you're DONE! woohoo! Way to go! You now have your very own batch of homemade laundry detergent. You use 2 Tablespoons per laundry load. I stick an old measuring spoon right on top of the detergent so it's right there. 

Optional:

I always have some small little pieces of the soap stuck to my Ninja whenever I'm through and instead of just rinsing it down the drain I add water to the container and get loose as much of it as I can. I then add that water to another sealing container and use it as a fabric scent booster. I sometimes will also add 2-3 drops of Wild Orange essential oil to the watery mixture for even more citrus scent.

 I add 1/2 cup to the rinse cycle or you can dip a towel in it and throw it in the dryer with the freshly laundered clothes.

These are the finished products:

Ps- Your house smells HEAVENLY when you use this detergent

Also if you decide to use the Wild Orange essential oil 

you can use coupon code "Bubble" to save 10% off your order! 

Linking up at 

Blissful And Domestic

Serenity Now

I am in love.

I know what you're thinking, I can totally see into those pretty little heads of yours ( I know..I know...I can't wait for my thin mints to arrive either!). You're thinking...Nickie....didn't you make a whole post about how much you dislike MLM companies? Yes, yes I did. Then I found one that was so different and wonderful that I changed my mind. Well, at least when it comes to this one.

I'm sure by now you've noticed the cute little banner on the side of the page, and thought what in the world is Perfectly Posh? Well sit down and pull up a chair buttercup.

What is Perfectly Posh?

Perfectly Posh is a relatively new company with spa and pampering products that are paraben-free, paraffin-free, free of sulfates including SLS, cruelty free and do NOT test on animals. When I heard those words I was basically sold then I also found out that they are fragranced only with the highest quality essential oils and fine phthalate-free fragrances. They even use natural enzymes and vitamin E to preserve the life and look of these awesome pampering products. Sold!

What products are offered?

There are ooodles upon oodles of pampering products from lotions to scrubs, cuticle cream, hair masks and everything in between. What really amazed me is how well they work and how INCREDIBLE they smell. I can't stop sniffing myself and sorry...you wont be able to either! These are a few of my favorites:

1. The Tree Hugger
This is a deep cleaning, D Tox scrub that has sea salts, strawberry seeds, coconut shreds, and a detoxifying blend of soothing essential oils. It scrubs and detoxes while nourishing the new layer with energizing vitamin C, rich jojoba and sunflower oil. Plus it smells like coconuts and strawberries.




2. The Caffeinator
This little baby is a moisturizing shea butter stick infused with tightening and brightening caffeine. You just rub this around your eye area and watch as the caffeine gets to work and tightens and brightens the skin. AKA: 8 hours of sleep fake-it stick.




3. The Stripper
This is a D Toxing mud mask that aggressively absorbs and removes free-radicals from skin. This puppy slows moisture removal with triglycerides and vanilla essential oil. With continued use supports cleaner, brighter skin, fewer black heads and blemishes, and improved elasticity. SIGN ME UP NOW am I right?



4.Sweet Young Thing
It's an anti-aging serum that is loaded with a sophisticated blend of CoQ10, natural cell-generating oils, and powerful peptides. This stuff is creamy and smells to me like a magnolia/jasmine smell. It is literally heaven in a bottle. When I put it on Hubby even noticed my skin looked great.

Ok Nickie, I am loving the products but c'mon MLM.....I've been hurt real bad sister. 

I feel you guys read on...

What makes them different?

I was so excited to join this company because they are SO different from all the other big name MLM companies that I've tried before. They are LOW KEY and encourage their consultants to be themselves, wear what makes them happy and comfortable, have fun, don't stress, and pamper themselves just as much as they pamper their customers.

Customers are treated like what they actually are: women who deserved to be pampered not a potential number or a sales slip. Unlike the other guys we are encouraged to share products not pressure women into joining our "army". They also pay commission on everything you buy, there is no "wholesale vs retail". You simply sell the products and they send you a check. They do bonus items, half off deals, hostess perks, and contests all the time to score some extra goodies. You're not pressured to have product on hand and consultants are encouraged to uplift and help out their fellow consultant sisters.

The price to become a consultant is only $99.00 ( plus local tax/shipping) and I signed up in January so my kit came with DOUBLE the amount of products! It was worth it to join up just for the amount of goodies alone! Another great thing about being a consultant is that this is a relatively new company so the market is WIDE OPEN! There are a million opportunities to expand and develop a market in your area! If you want more info about joining you can read about it HERE and message me either here or on my Facebook Page and I will answer any questions. PS - You can still get the double kit promotion all the way until February 6th!

I can literally go on and on, but I'll stop here and continue with the info...

What does this mean for us, your loyal readers?

Well not too awful much. No I will not be harassing or pushing anyone to join or buy something, that's not why we're here and I hope you guys know and love me better than that. But I will post some Perfectly Posh stuff occasionally when I think you guys might be interested or whenever I get really excited about something. Which...let's face it..I'm a tad bit obsessive when it comes to things I fall in love with. So if I do go a little overboard please forgive me. I'm thankful that I found Perfectly Posh, it was an accident that I stumbled onto their Facebook page posts and I will be forever grateful. I think their products are amazing and I honestly really just want to share them with you guys. I do plan on doing a giveaway or two in the next few months with both Perfectly Posh and Spark Naturals so stay tuned for that. 

Well that's about all. I just wanted to keep you all updated and caught up in the know. 

5 Easy And Fun Ways To Mentally Unwind

I don't know about you guys but it seems like I'm still running around like crazy even though the "hustle and bustle" season is supposed to be over. We have weddings, baby showers, doctor appointments, job responsibilities, munchkin duties, and a million other things that have me running around and exhausted all.day.long.

 I have so much going on in my crazy brain that even when I do get a few minutes to myself it's hard to relax and "power down". Instead of recharging, I'm mentally going through my calendar, to-do list and hopping from one thing to another. That got me thinking and I began digging around the internet in a search to find some ways to really relax. Some ways to mentally unwind. Without further ado, here is my top five favorites:





1. Visit Pinterest and go to the art category. Snuggle up on the couch and take time to scroll through the various works. Don't try mentally placing them in your home or picking which ones you'd buy...this is a mental escape remember. Just simply look and enjoy them. Let yourself wind down looking at the pieces from paintings to photographs and everything in between. Artist: Scott Naismith

2. Plan a pretend vacation. Visit Carnival and chose which restaurants you'd visit and which spa packages you'd want. Cruise not your thing? Plan a Gatlinburg mountain getaway or a Yellowstone vacation. Have fun with it....pretend you can only pick one restaurant to eat at or one show to see, which one would you chose? Which geyser would you be MOST excited to see and which trails would be on your "never ever attempt" list? Which vacation spot would Aunt Shirley be most excited about? Which one would the Hubs be most excited about? The point is to take your mind off real life and have a little fun pretending.


3. Do you consider yourself a fashionista? No?Well...me neither, but I do like visiting Polyvore. It's a neat little site that lets you design outfit sets and create fashion looks with almost any article of clothing out there. It's a fun way to spend some time and come up with an outfit look for that office party or playdate. If you're not feeling particularly creative you can always browse the creations of others and find some chic new looks. It's sort of like the Pinterest of fashion. Made by vintagenerd8 

4. If you like reading half as much as I do try out Goodreads. You can rate your recent ( and older) reads in as little ( star ratings) or as much detail as you like. You can also take quizzes, chat with other book lovers, ask authors questions, and the best....find your next favorite book with their in-depth recommendations list. I LOVE to visit this site and just add books to my virtual "to read" bookshelf. It's nice to have the list handy whenever I do have the time to visit a bookstore or buy one online.




5. Print out some Adult Coloring Pages ( NO...not THAT kind of adult, get your minds out of the gutter!) sharpen some colored pencils and go make something pretty. These pages are easy to print out and within minutes you can be relaxing and letting your inner child be free.

So there you go, those are my favorites. What are some things that help you mentally unwind? What are your favorites? 

Things They Don't Tell You About When You Have A Toddler

If you're anything like me, the minute you found out about your new bundle of joy you began your research. Ok...let's be honest, I began the research months and months before I even began thinking about peeing on a stick. I knew the general issues I would be facing, things to watch out for in her first few months, and what to expect at all of her doctor's appointments. I was pretty prepared for that first year. I was wielding information from moms, books, websites, doctors, and blogs like a well honed mommy sword. I (mostly) knew my stuff. Then the first year went by and we entered into toddler-hood.

I don't know if you're aware or not, but the information after that first year just drops off into nothing land. I imagine that's because no one has the time to write down their horror stories  advice or tips on dealing with things, and upcoming issues because they're too tired. Or too busy wrangling those little monkey-grubby-fingered-tornadoes cherubs. I can't count the number of posts that I began to write and got sidetracked by chasing, cleaning, feeding, teaching, and well you get the point...

So without further ado, here is a quick list of things I had on my mind and wanted to jot down for those mamas with those sweet little nine or five months old. Read this now and take heed my friend.

1. Take your baby everywhere and cherish it. Cherish it when you can still walk around Target while your little one snoozes in the stroller because it will end, and it will end very, very quickly. Before you know it you will be bribing your child with anything you can get your hands on so they'll be quiet enough to allow you to ( literally) run and grab the bare basics you need for dinner. You might even get so desperate that you will PAY someone to watch your kid so you can just have twenty measly little quiet minutes to yourself at the store. It isn't pretty my friends. They will scream, they will throw things, they will hit, and it is not pretty. I've been told that this stage will pass soon, but it is no re-assurance. You're in the trenches mama.


2. They are fast. Unbelievably fast. I am shocked that there is not a toddler Olympics or some other sort of athletic event for the little squirrels. When you work on cleaning up one mess they have five others. As soon as you snatch up the blocks that she just toted down the hallway to you, you return back to the room and boom....pots and pans in the middle of the floor. How? There are locks on the door, you didn't hear pots and pans clanging, and she can't lift that....she can't. Oh yes, she can. I hope you liked the Ocean's Eleven movies because congratulations...you are living in one. They are quick, they are sneaky, and they can do things you never imagined. Don't blink, don't sit down, and don't turn your back.....you should be fine though, they're like this for only.....ok....maybe think of investing in a Keurig.

3. They poop way more now, I think....my days just kind of go from one poopy diaper to another, but I'm fairly certain I'm elbow deep in more poop now than I have been before. Stock up on diapers.

4. They're a lot more expressive now which is great, except when they are sick. Instead of just fussing they are also screaming, crying, kicking, hitting, yelling, throwing, and just overall miserable. You will do ANYTHING to make them happy from buying all the singing DVDs, sugar-free all natural popsicles you can get your hands on to playing peek-a-boo until you want to hit yourself in the head with a blunt object......whatever will make them happy. Get yourself some good essential oils and study up on aromatherapy....or alcohol....I'm totally not judging you on this one.


5. Have you heard the old expression " A dog will make a liar out of you"? Basically if you teach a dog a trick and brag about it he'll make a liar out of you when you try to show that trick off...well that is especially true with toddlers. I have spent hours upon hours teaching her where her nose, head, and tummy is. She can hold up one finger when I ask her how old she is and give high fives. She says hey, momma, dadda, doggy, uh-oh and dances. She can do all of these with me, whenever I ask...unless anyone else is looking. I can ask her a million times until I'm blue in the face and she just looks at me like I'm a crazy person if there's another person in the room. She will act like she's never heard one word you've said and the minute you're alone...boom. Einstein again.

6. You won't be able to be around your kid-less friends without wanting to hit them in the face at least once in a twenty minute conversation. This one might just be me, but when I start hearing about how tired you are or how upset you are that you're having to miss the opening showing of Catching Fire I have mentally stabbed you five times...and stolen your movie tickets. I get that you have a tough job and it can be tiring, but c'mon man....I've had seven hours of sleep in the past two days and I NEVER ESCAPE my boss. You're tired, I'm tired, he's tired, they're tired, stop whining about it unless you're willing to bring some margaritas over and induce some sleep if you get what I mean. Oh and about the movie thing.....Hubby and I saw a movie on our anniversary which was the first time we had been to a theater in two years. I am not kidding.

7. They bring your "I'm going to be that hot fashionable mom" thing crashing to the ground. Then they stomp
on it and pour grape juice all over it. Maybe you've managed it while they were still tiny little things you toted and snuggled all day. The tiny little lumps that could be put on couches and never rolled around or even moved, so wonderful and easy...but then they grow up. They become toddlers who wipe their nose on your new shirt. No sooner have you changed from your new shirt into one of your old ones they smear their peanut butter covered hands on you. If it's not one things it's another. Don't bother styling your hair because chasing them around....well everything...will make your styled locks look like they've been fried by an electrical socket. Nails? Forget about it. Shaving? Oh please....the little tots might be styled to the nines, but you will look like a homeless vagrant....it helps to just avoid mirrors on some days. Ask me how I know....



There was something else.....something important....ah well...I'm too tired...you'll figure it out mama.

And this is how you know you're officially a mom.

Yesterday was mine and Hubby's three year wedding anniversary, though we've been together for a whopping ten years.TEN...crazy right? Anywho...it was a nice day, he got me six more essential oils I've been wanting, and a new wallet, and I got him an assortment of hunting paraphernalia. My lovely sister watched Munchkin while we went out to dinner, and later we decided to stop at Target.

I realized when we walked in that it was actually the first time we had went shopping together in a store without our little angel. It was crazy how excited I was. We were taking our time looking at everything and spending time just standing and comparing things which I know to people who don't have kids might seem really weird, but to those of you who do...you totally know what I'm talking about.

Usually our shopping trip goes like this:

3:00 - At the house
Me: " Alright, I've packed everything in her diaper bag that we could need...are you ready? I have a list...it's only a few things, we shouldn't be long."
Hubby: " Yep I'm ready, I'll get Munchkin in the car....she'll be fine."

3:15 - Arrive at store
Me: " Ok sweetie...let's sit you in the cart."
Munch: "UUUHHHH UUHHHHH" * kicks feet, cries* MOOOMMMMAAAAA
Hubby: " Ok...no big deal, I'll hold her."
Me: * brave smile * " Alright...no harm done...happy girl ok?"
Munch: * claps hands and acts happy *

3:25 - Shopping for a grand total of ten minutes
Munch: * cries and rolls in Hubby's arms like an alligator demanding to be put down *
Hubby: " No sweetheart, it's ok...here...have a snack." * bribes with Lucky Charms*
Munch: * eats a bite and resolves to sit still for the moment* 
Me: * getting a little worried *  " Hey babe...which one of these did we like last time? "
* picks up two, trying to compare labels*

3:27 - Same isle
Munch: * starts screaming and throwing snacks *
Me: " Let me hold her...look want some juice?" * grab munchkin who is still fussing*
Hubby: " I don't know...I don't care....just grab something"
Me: " Maybe she wants a toy...hand me a toy"
Hubby: " There is no toy"
Me: " oh crap...I forgot them on the counter"
Munchkin: * fussing and irritated we're standing in one place for too long*
Me: " I just can't decide between this one and this one"
Hubby: " Then we'll come back to the isle in a minute, we need to keep moving...what's next?"
Me: " I don't know..where is the list?"
Munchkin: * suspiciously quiet*
Me: " I think she pooped..."
Hubby: "ok...I'll change her you grab whatever is left"

3:31 - Checking out and trying to distract Munchkin with everything in the arsenal
Me: "We're almost done sweetheart..almost going home."
Munchkin:  * crying and throwing whatever she can get her hands on*
Hubby: " I'll pay for everything, take her outside..see if that helps."

3:32 - Taking outside does not help

3:34 - On the way back home, Munchkin still fussing 
Me: " We forgot the tea bags"
Hubby: " screw it"


Yep...that's basically how it goes now. I longingly remember the days where she used to sit in her car seat and was perfectly content with watching people quietly. I've been told it gets better, but I remain skeptical. All I can say is that you know you're a mom when shopping at Target with your Hubby is the highlight of your anniversary. 

Truths

It wasn't too long ago that the awesome ladies from Rants From Mommyland made an awesome post about " What I say vs What I actually mean" and I couldn't help but add a few more:


What I Say: 
" Aw, babe I'm sorry you had a hard day."

What I Mean:
" Really?!? I just changed my nineteenth poopy diaper and haven't gotten to sit down for more than three minutes all day. Oh and I managed to wash clothes, clean the house, and set something out for supper but please....go on about your "hard" job."



What I Say:
" Does my hair look ok?"

What I mean:
" I haven't shampooed my hair in two days....ok three....can you tell? Alright...just how noticeable is it?" 

What I Say: 
" THAT is going to be an awesome movie, I can't wait to see it."

What I mean:
" I can't wait for half a year to go by so I can finally rent it from RedBox."



What I Say:
"  Hey.....did she make a noise?"

What I mean:
" I totally heard her make a noise, and I'm pretty sure you did too so I'm going to call attention to her next noise because I'm fairly certain you'll go put her paci in if I do."



 
What I Say:
" Do you think she would benefit from some socialization?"

What I mean:
" I need some socialization with another adult or mama is going to lose her mind."





What I Say: 
" We need to get a few things at the grocery store before we can cook tonight."

What I mean:
" I don't feel like cooking, and I know you hate grocery shopping so I think we're going to end up at Olive Garden."

Thanks Tuesday...You Were A Douche

It is 8:07 as I type this out, so it totally counts as a blog post for today. I had to go into work this morning and while I was there I developed a migraine that made me want to literally shoot myself in the face to end the pain. It was the type of migraine that went past minor irritation to light and sound, and instead was making me gag and the room spin just from the shear pain of it. I came home shaking, and spent the afternoon crying and trying to go to sleep to make it all go away.

I woke up at about six and miraculously the pain was all gone, and everything was right in the world again. Hubby needed to go to the store so we packed up munchkin and headed out. It wasn't until we were at the store when we realized we had completely forgotten the diaper bag. The only thing she had was a bottle that we made right before we left. Fear set in immediately and although we only planned to be gone for less than an hour we were panic stricken.

Hubby began practically throwing things into the shopping cart, and I was doing everything I could think of to distract her. We were practically running through the isles like we were on Supermarket Sweep and when we were about half way done with our list she began to get fussy. She didn't want the bottle and she was starting to get louder so I picked her up and held her on my front chest facing me which seemed to make her happy.

It was then that I noticed that the whole front part of my shirt had a big, round wet mark on it. It literally covered my whole front like she peed on me. Apparently her bottle had overturned in the car seat and soaked her butt which I then held to my chest. Awesome.

So there I was having to hold the wet butt baby to me because of the huge wet mark on me, and try to entertain her through the store without letting people see because of course you know their going to think she peed on me. Then I'll be that mom whose walking around with pee on her and before you know it I'LL be on People Of Walmart.com.

I kept waiting for someone we knew to come by and ask to hold her, but that didn't happen thank God. We wrapped up the trip with no further incident and vowed to never forget the bag again. Never in my life have I depended so much on one little bag. I think they should invent a button that beeps when you leave the house without it. Yep....my next invention....don't steal that America, I know where you live.

I heart your faces ladies!

Made at Wordle

Well, apparently yesterday was International Woman's Day and I had no idea about it until about 11:50 last night. So I wrote this post and am posting it the day after so...Happy Belated International Woman's Day.

I first want to give thanks and honor to of the amazing women that I have in my life who encourage and uplift me daily. I want to thank them not just for the support, but also for being a source of wisdom and guidance.I also want to thank all of my amazing readers, and supporters of this site....I love you, like really creepily love you all. And no, I am not winning an Oscar...I just wanted to give a quick shout out of thanks.

Secondly I began to wonder exactly what International Women's Day was all about. It wasn't technically "Honor Women Day" or "Respect The Women Day". It sort of sounded like " Mother's Day" so I'm fairly certain I was suppose to get a gift.

I made this list completely up did a ton of research and if your spouse is confused about the holiday just tell them this:

The following is entitled to all women and MUST be done or someone will pay the pied piper...I assure you. And it wont be me because I'm poor and I don't even know the going rate of a piper is, much less a pied one.

1. The Woman must be granted a day of no diaper duty. period. If you have to come home from work to change a diaper then so be it pal.

2. The Woman is allowed to get out of a speeding ticket, no wearing of a low-cut shirt necessary. I'm looking at you patrolmen....

3. The Woman is allowed one free dessert from any restaurant of her choice.

4. The Woman is granted a puppy or kitten of her choice for the day, and the kids/and or Hubby shall clean the doodies up.

5. The Woman shall be entitled to an hour long free massage, by a tall handsome muscular professional masseuse.

I don't know about ya'll but I think these rules should take effect immediately and guaranteed by law. Yup, I said it. I'm totally willing to bend on the speeding ticket thing if I can trade it for free coffee all day. That is all. Happy Belated International Women's Day Ladies! 

Munchkin's Pierced Ears and Random Google Findings

I did it people...I got my little munchkin's ears pierced! We went to Claires, and there was actually another mom with a 7 month old baby there so I felt really good about not being the only one. Munchkin was cool with the lady messing with her ears, and marking them.When the lady pierced them she honestly did not cry for more than two minutes. I think she was surprised more than anything. I couldn't do it though, Hubby had to hold her. I was standing behind him shaking and gripping onto the chair for fear of passing out. It went so smoothly that I felt sort of embarrassed over how much of a big deal I made it out to be...oh well. So if you are a momma and worried about getting your little one's ears pierced, don't be. It honestly is not bad, I promise.

Yesterday I also peeked at my google stats to see what people search for that brings them to my site. There were the obvious ones...nickie bubble, life bubble nickie, funny nickie ( thanks for that by the way). Then there were the not so obvious ones:

1. How to be like Edward Cullen  
 brought three people to my site
At first this one really stumped me, I mean how in the world could someone...much less three someones....find my blog from that? I'm not even remotely like Edward Cullen, I'm from the south, I love sunshine, I interact with people daily, and I don't think if I was a vampire that I would have issues drinking blood from bad people, they totally had it coming. THEN I remembered that THIS POST was titled Just Like Edward Cullen and then it sort of all made sense. Robert Pattinson and I are now practically cast mates in the play of life...feel free to tweet that quote.



 2. Nickie's Bubble Idiot
brought one person to my site
First I was like....rude. Then I googled it just out of curiosity to see if there was some sort of hate site for me or something because, yes...I am that paranoid. What it brought me to was  THIS POST about idiot customer dealings and I was like...awww ok. All is well in the world, though I'm sure there are people who do think I'm an idiot and that's ok, the world needs people with bad taste.

3. What to write on a death wreath
brought one person to my site
I felt really, really horrible about this one. All I could picture were bereaved people trying to find words of sympathy or loss and being led to my crazy post HERE and hearing all about my winter wreath murdering itself. I felt really bad, but Hubby did make me feel a little better pointing out that maybe I made them just a tiny bit happy and possibly brought a smile to their face. I really hope so, if not again...I apologize. 

Date ideas...now that you have a baby

Just because you have a little one doesn't mean that you can't have any fun together. Here is a list of some date night ideas you can try tonight....no baby sitter required! Just be sure to schedule it nowhere near bedtime, trust me on that one.


1. Have dinner at home and head out to your local video game arcade at the mall or if you're super lucky...a fair. This is a great idea because there's already lots of noise and the baby will be amazed at all the lights and sounds. Be sure to bring the stroller so you and Hubby can have your hands free to challenge each other in Skee-ball. When you're finished head to your local ice cream shop for a quick treat before heading home. If baby is in a great mood enjoy eating them outside and if not...take it home, no biggie.

2. Catch a movie together. No...Seriously. The Bump sponsors a Bring Your Baby Matinee all over the country in various theaters. The lights are brighter and the volume is lower plus it's breastfeeding friendly and crying babies are welcomed. After the movie if baby is cooperating take a stroll together and talk...while burning off some of those popcorn calories.

3. Have a double-date night at home. Invite a few other couples and ask them to bring either their favorite dessert and/or wine and enjoy those tasty treats while competing against each other playing board games. I know what you're thinking...board games? Seriously? Yes my friends, I am serious because there are some new games on the market geared towards adults and aimed at ensuring a good time. Here are a few of my favs: Battle of the Sexes, Apples to Apples, What's yours like?, and Scene It?

4. Do a lot for a short time. Let me explain....first find out where a local flea market/jockey lot is and spend the morning looking at all the cool things for sale. Make it a challenge by only having ten bucks a piece and whoever finds the coolest item gets a day of no diaper changing duty or a ten minute foot massage. When that's done head over to a place where you can get food to-go and eat lunch at the park. Baby is sure to love the sunshine and you guys don't have to worry if she gets fussy. The last stop is to hit up the bowling alley and bowl one, maybe two games depending on baby's mood. Loser has to cook dinner

5. Discover your local art or history museum. Be sure to go mid-day and mid-week when there are bound to be some school groups. You wont feel bad if the little one starts fussing and you get to take in some culture together. If your munchkin is still in a good mood pop on over to your local paint-your-own pottery place and design your own works of art. They're usually small so nobody will mind if little one cries plus you can also do some cute pottery artwork with your little guy or girl like this if they're in the mood.


Well, there you go....5 date night ideas that are made for you guys and the baby. The main thing is to keep it relaxed, have fun, and never, ever, ever, never, ever, ever stop being romantic with each other.

Top 15 list of the BEST things you can do for a new mommy

Yay! Your friend had a baby, you visited her in the hospital and now they are home. You want to help her out and show her some love, but where do you start and what do you do? Well here ya go....





1. Pray for her
Pray in all the ways that you can think to pray for her. Pray for strength, guidance, confidence, patience, and wisdom. Pray for her and the little one. Remind her how God watched that little one in her womb for so long keeping it safe and he will continue to watch over the little one and her for now and forever.

 



2. Bring her Flowers
It doesn't matter if you get a beautiful arrangement like the one on the left or just a $ 5.99 bouquet from Walmart. Flowers make people feel loved, and special which that new mommy needs and deserves right now.








3. Clean
This one is tricky because it really depends on how well you know the mommy and how comfortable you are cleaning her home. If it's something that would be acceptable do it, don't ask. She will feel obligated to tell you no even though the dishes are piling up and there are three inches of dirt on the floor. Don't ask, just get the broom and do it.






4. Magazines or Books
If you know what she likes then definitely buy those, but throw in some parenting magazines too. She's a new mom, and she is about to have a ton of late night feedings where she could use something new to read and help her relax. If she isn't a magazine person and you know she has an e-reader go for the gift card so she can pick out a new book.




5. Food Gift Cards
I would not recommend cooking for her because 1. Your tastes might not be theirs 2. They might not want to re-heat and de-frost meals plus have them piling up in the freezer. 3. It's a tiny bit awkward to ask someone what they want you to cook for them. I would recommend getting a gift card to their favorite fast food place. They can always send someone out to get the food, and you know they will enjoy it. There are exceptions of course, but in my experience this it what works.





6. Little Things
If you're at the store and you're wanting to treat your new mommy friend just pick up some baby lotion or a nice cup of Starbucks ( if she is drinking coffee...some mommies don't while breastfeeding so make sure to check). Stick to things that you know she loves, and will use such as baby wipes, baby lotion, baby-safe sanitizing wipes, lotion for mom, soft socks, etc.




7. Don't forget about Dad
There's a whole ton of attention on the new baby and a lot on mom, but sometimes dad gets the short straw. New dads need cigars. There are only a few times in a man's life where his friends should get him cigars and this is one of the better reasons. Even if he doesn't smoke, no guy can ever turn down a celebration cigar with his buddies to congratulate him on his new baby...all else fails he can keep it as a memento.






8. Walk the dogs
Her new life is hard enough adjusting to all these new changes without having to worry about who is going to walk Fido. Take the dogs for a stroll, or give them a bath for her. If the dogs are barking like crazy and keeping the baby up, maybe offer to take the little guy ( the dog...not baby) for a few nights to let everyone get some rest.

9. Offer your time
Head over to her house and let her go take a nap, soak in a bath or heck...both! Make sure you respect her feelings with this...if she doesn't feel comfortable napping and leaving you with the baby let her paint her nails or browse pinterest while you hold the baby near her. Either way just make sure she knows you are here solely to give her some " me-time".

 10. Take out the siblings
If this isn't her first rodeo ask her if you can take the older kiddos out so she can bond with the new baby and catch up on some sleep. Depending on age you can take the little munchkins out to a zoo, museum, park, bowling alley or community pool to just name a few. To earn a million best friend points pick up a small treat for her like a cookie on your way back home.

 11. Be her friend
It's hard sometimes to remember that this is still your friend, and not just " a new mom". Head over to her house and talk, just simply talk. Try not to spend too much time fawning over the baby and ask HER how she is feeling and doing. Talk to her about anything she wants to talk about and really listen. Sometimes new mommies just need to vent, gossip about the newest celebrity news or maybe blather about the color of their baby's poop and they need their friend to listen.







12. Compliment her
Tell her she is beautiful even if she is in stained pajamas, and a shirt that you are fairly certain you can see her holey bra peeking through. Tell her she is beautiful because she is. She just gave another human being the gift of life so she is the most gorgeous, person in the whole world. End of story.









13. Offer to be her chauffeur
When she is comfortable going out, drive her around to run some errands and offer to stay in the car with the baby. Maybe offer to go visit some daycare centers if she wants to go that route or try out a new mommy group with her.






 


14. Give them a date
Give this one some time, but offer to watch the little one while they go eat out somewhere nice and take in a movie. If they feel uncomfortable suggest that you watch the baby at the house while they are home and let them watch a movie in their room alone or take the baby on a short stroll for some "mommy and daddy time".








15. Don't abandon her
It's easy to invite her to dinner with the girls and tell her it's totally fine to take the baby, but think of it her way. It's late, it's a nice place, and the baby can be fussy. Instead get the group to opt in for a brunch somewhere low-key, and close to the new mom's home. Talk about grown up things, and offer to hold the baby while she eats.

Crapfest.

My Hubby is out of town, my in-laws are visiting, munchkin is teething and I'm now sick. Awesome. I must have been Hilter in another life to get this crap hitting all at once. I promise to post something funny or great tomorrow...maybe. I apparently picked out the hardest sewing pattern ever and my mother-in-law and granny-in-law who have over 50 years experience argued over how to put it together almost all day. Literally they said it was beyond hard and they wouldn't have even attempted to do it, so I got pretty confused about the whole process, but I did make a dress. It was made with just leftover fabric and it was my first time ever sewing, but I think I did ok.