One of My Favorites!

You should see Landen and Amelia when this song plays! It's a family favorite.

*Update* The kids and I watched/listened to this like three times this afternoon. Then I got off here and came back to post. I totally forgot my humps was on the end. I'm to lazy to find another right now. Excuse that part of the clip. =) Mommy Brain!

It's time to move..

... when it's 0 degree's out and the windchill is -20. How much longer till summer again?

I'm a mother..

Just because I complain doesn't mean I don't love it!

God gave me a great gift and I do embrace it daily.

Running on empty

I know God won't give me anything I can't handle, but right when I feel like I just can't take anymore something else gets thrown at me and I realize I have to handle more - however it really is hard.

I'm realizing the emotions of pregnancy are already coming at me full force. I don't feel like I had that exploding sense of not being able to control my emotions with Amelia as I did with Landen. Maybe this is a boy? Okay, lets not get started on that phony bologny I already know I will be hearing far to much of that again this time and I don't believe it.

So as my brain is literally fluttering around in happy, sad, laugh, cry mode - I'm sure it'll balance out - just when is what I'm asking. The nausea is coming and going, but the constant feel of being sick all over has taken hold of my body for good. Ugh, it's just not fun. Thank you Jesus for giving woman hormones to forget this part of pregnancy, because I don't know how I'd do it otherwise. I've decided that being pregnant with two toddlers is worse than no children and one child. Yes, it's definitely the worse. I can't stand to even think of how many weeks I have left of feeling like this. I know what I tell others - just remember that baby is growing in there because your sick, but honestly that's hard for me to grasp this time. All that keeps me focused is that my sister gets married in February and I should be better by then. Now if I look at that in a weeks - well I might as well faint - but if I look at the big picture I think her wedding is practically here so I can deal with it.

Amelia -- I think -- is teething. She woke up last night at about 3:00 am throwing up and has been doing it all day long with a lovely fever. Poor thing - she keeps locking her jaw and biting so I'm really hoping that's it. I really didn't mean it when I said - I don't want to go anywhere for Christmas. Well part of me didn't mean it!

Aren't I just a joy to be around lately? Winter isn't helping at all -- the older I get, the harder winter gets on me. I think I'll go with Kurt's grandpa to Texas for now on - live with the elderly to keep my arthritis from flaring up. Ha ha ha!

On another pregnancy note, I need to find out exactly how many weeks I am. I knew but my memory is like scrambled eggs up there and I seriously don't remember anything right now. *Teri still thinking of what I was going to tell you about that diaper*. The kids have been clued to A Child is Born the book - they love the pictures, even the ones that don't look so much like a baby. It's precious! I'm going to post pictures of the growing belly but I'm going to wait awhile. Right now I'm so bloated from water that it'd be stupid. I also want to do a weekly baby picture - we'll see how that goes though. I have my reasons for doing that - not enough energy to go into it though.

God Bless!

Girlie Girl!

I definitely have a girlie girl for a daughter.

This past weekend Amelia decided she wanted to wear a necklace and of course she didn't have one - so I got into my old Caboodle (remember those things?) and found one for her. She wore it almost all day and the next day to church. Now she keeps pointing up at the caboodle wanting her "pretty" and her hair clips are her "pretty", she looks in the mirror and she's "pretty". I love it! She also loves shoes, her own shoes too. She will get them all out and want them put on, her favorites are definitely the red ones - it's adorable. Today she brought me her dress and said "pretty" as she tried to put it on.

I love my pretty!

The Snow Globe

I was sitting reading my children some books and looked outside and seriously felt like our house was sitting inside a snow globe. It's gorgeous outside, snow is coming down heavy and filling the streets and ground with snow. No where to go but to sit in my nice blanket and watch the snow fall. It's lovely.

Most of my readers know I'm big on Ecological Breast Feeding and believe in the way it works. I do have to admit on cheating a bit with Amelia when we gave her that stupid pacifier for awhile (which I will never do again with any of my children - I hate pacifiers.) Putting my beliefs aside, I still would never use anything other than natural family planning. Instead of going into my own post about EBF and NFP, check out Kate Wickers great post about it and Sheila Kippleys new book (she has great books, I can't wait to read this one). Happy Reading. I'm off to sit in my snow globe!

The Energy Is Decreasing!

That is my excuse for not posting in a week; my energy is seriously being drained from my body before I even get out of bed. It's funny how I really forget how tired I am during that first trimester. It's all I can do to just make it around the house let alone actually get anything done. So far it hasn't been that bad except I've been doing too much because we've been so busy. I need to remind myself to stop and take it easy, but that's hard for me. I don't want things to be messy, I want to get things done that need to be done, do what I need to do and more. I keep going and going and that's not how the body works. Today was the first day I actually puked, sorry for that, but it's part of pregnancy. I'll keep chugging along because I know it's worth it. Just bare with me for awhile.

Exciting News During Our Advent Season!

Human Life is sacred -- from its very inception it reveals the creating hand of God. - Pope John XXIII

We're going to have a baby!! We're due the second week in August and found out yesterday, even though I have been wondering for a couple of weeks now. The bloating has began, my shirts are having a hard time fitting. Landen is excited and "wants to grow a baby too" - I told him to ask his dad about that one. Ha ha. He has been showing me how big our baby bean is and told me he'll change the "pee" diapers when the baby is born, but not the poop because it stinks. Amelia has no clue and Kurt and I are super excited! I finally get to start reading Prayerfully Expecting from Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle, so many wonderful things in this "Nine- Month Novena for Mothers To Be."

And So I Wonder. . .

Is it really worth getting them dressed up to take Christmas pictures? Will I get a good one? If not I can always fall back on the comical aspect of pictures and go with this one!

Or this one.

Or just let the three year old have the camera and go with it! Have fun with those Christmas pictures, I am sure to look back and get a good laugh out of these and the many others. *Note my shirt, ha ha ha.. I'm lucky!!!! =)

Technology Challenged Perhaps

It really is winter when I haven't been out of the house in five days, yes this is correct. Some of you may think I'm a freak but I really cannot stand the cold weather. No wonder we're a bit crabby in this house, without fresh air things start getting to you.

Today the kids and I go dressed and ventured out in the freezing cold, first to find that my cell phone was missing. Where was it; in the coat I wore - hmm - last Saturday. Why do I have a cell phone when I never use it? I really need to think about this one a little more closely. You know when you see all those people with their fancy phones, all the gadgets and you are basically still carrying the phone that won't even fit in your purse... that's me. Okay, I'm not that bad - we do have a phone that takes pictures, do I know how to use it - not so much. You won't find me texting while driving because I don't even know how to use my texting option on my phone. Wow, I'm starting to sound like a true technology freak or something.

Anyway.. so we headed out. It was exhausting, Landen thought he had to skate on any road we were near because it of course had ice and "mom I'm a hockey player". Okay, whatever - just don't kill yourself. It was nice to make it to Adoration and just get out for awhile. I need to note to myself - getting a little cold isn't going to kill me and fresh air does make you feel better. We have plans for this entire weekend and next week - so no hibernating for me.

Kurt is deer hunting again this weekend - crazy - when the wind chill is negative degrees I really don't see the fun or the point in it. Whatever though - it must be a guy thing because I know far to many people out there right now and none of them are having any luck. Call it quits and go out next year.

Tomorrow we're going to my parents parish for Mass and my family is putting on a Our Lady of Guadalupe celebration/feast. It's going to be fun and delicious! My mom is getting the authentic Mexican salsa and chips, making Mexican rice, beans and tacos. A pinata for the kids and possibly a story or play. Someone was supposed to convince my siblings to put it on, but they were chickening out. More on that later - if I remember my camera; pictures.

I'm off to go play pretend hockey with the man of the house right now. Amelia is sick of it and I'm the next best in line. Have a blessed weekend.

Meme - Six Things That Make Me Happy

Doesn't this meme come in just the right time. Two people tagged me for this - Sharon and Jen so I suppose I should play along. I do have a lot to be happy about.

According to the rules, I have to post six things that make me really happy... and pass it on to give six more people a reason to be thankful!

Six things that make me happy:
6. My husband and children. Just being with them and looking at them makes me happy.
5. The Catholic church; if I'm struggling to find the truth I know she'll guide me in the right direction. That I was able to spend 1/2 hour in Adoration today.
4. The sunshine that's shinning in right now make me warm.
3. That I'm getting a giraffe purse and I have been wanting one for a long time.
2. We're going to give to Toys for Tots this year. We've been blessed with so much that we're giving it to kids that need it more than us. It's nice to be able to give.
1. My brothers, sisters, mom and dad. There is nothing like close family.

I don't know who to tag so if you want to play along do.

Advent is a time to be happy

I've been quite the downer when it comes to posting. I guess I just haven't been all that perky lately, things make me irritated. I've been thinking about it a lot today (I guess because the kids are both taking naps at the same time for once) and it's advent; I need to get my act together. I'm going to get more into the spirit and start being thankful. Not saying I'm not going to be grumpy, but it will pass.

I've decided to delicate some of the Christmas things to my husband, I feel too stressed to decide who is getting what and on and on. There is just too much materialism in our Christmas and I really would like to do away with that. How do you do that though when most of the family is all about that? It makes it really hard. I'm thinking of asking my Grandma to make a Mary Doll for Amelia, even if it isn't for Christmas. I can't find one and my grandma is really good at sewing I think it might be better than one I would purchase and my friend is going to take some pictures of theirs for me to send.

Our Christmas tree has been setting quite the mood, it's really lovely. Landen and I made our Advent wreath and I really like it since this is our first one. I got the Advent Calender in the mail today - it's going to be so much fun. The kids and I are going to take part in that when they wake up. One day day behind, that's okay. I found the advent wreath for my blog, that made me happy. =) I'm really looking forward to getting my Christmas Photo Cards this year to send out. They were shipped a couple of days ago so as soon as I get them and get stamps I'm going to be sending cards good and early this year. I even picked out some angels from church to pray for and send cards too. =)

Well I'm off to make some coffee, my warming mouse is only keeping my hand warm and I'm freezing! Have a great day. Be sure to enter for some adorable shoes and an awesome smart-e-bear on my review site. I have lots of holiday giveaways coming that you don't want to miss out on.

Worth the Delay

Thank you so much for all the thoughts and prayers from everyone regarding Landen. He is doing a lot better. Kurt talked to him about when you feel like that saying "I'm smarter than you pee" and even though we had both said something similar to him that didn't work, this worked. He continued to do his "I have to pee and poop" the rest of Wednesday and then a little bit on Thanksgiving but we haven't had anything since. I have heard him say "I'm smart" a few times but nothing to be alarmed about. I talked to the Doctor and nurse Friday and decided to not go forward with the voiding test (that's when they insert a catheter into is penis, shoot dye up into is cavity and then let it out) since he's acting fine. I'm not sure what was going on, but all seems to be better now. I'm still wondering if it had something to do with him being sick and maybe he wasn't fully recovered? Let's hope so!

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! We had a busy one, but it was nice. =)

We put our Christmas tree, lights and everything else up on Friday. It makes the house so cozy with the tree up. This year all the break able decorations are on the top; definitely a tree that looks like children live here. =) Landen and I made an advent wreath and Kurt read the blessing last night and we lit the first candle. It's lovely! This is our first year doing the advent wreath and I'm super excited about it. I also ordered an Advent Calender for the kids and everyday you get to read a little song and bible verse and hang it on the tree. I'm hoping it arrives today so we don't have to do too many catch up days.

We got a lot of snow last night; more than I enjoy. The roads are covered and it's going to be hard to get out of the drive way. Yuck! Landen has been wearing his hat, gloves and snow boots all day. He's ready for a snowball fight.

Oh and just to let everyone know, cloth diaper month is over and I have a lot of contests for Christmas related gifts coming up. One almost every single day. Check out Momma In Flip Flops2 to get in on this great stuff. =)

Doctor Visit Update

Thank you everyone for your prayers and encouragement for us. Keep those prayers coming because here's the update.

We headed to the doctor at 1:30pm this afternoon. I woke Landen up out of a dead sleep with screaming because he was still tired but it was the only way to do it without him trying to go pee before we left and we needed another urine sample. We got there and Landen peed right away, thank goodness. We also had to get blood drawn and this was the first time he has ever been pricked. He did good, he just started blowing air out like he was doing Lamaze or something. It was kind of funny. He did really good and I was so proud of him. We went back up and they actually got us in right away, which was very surprising. We talked to the doctor and basically I told her the same things I said before and she checked him all over and started saying different things we could do. I told her I wanted to wait to see if the UA came back positive and go from there. The tests weren't back so we had to wait and wait. Finally she came back and said the UA was completely fine and she had to wait for the blood test and the kidney function that she ran. Again we waited, and let me tell you - having two kids in a little room with NO children activities is very hard. We waited and the CNA comes in a long time later and says "you're still here?" I was not very happy about that, but I said "yes, we're still waiting for results". The doctor game back and says "well I've been on the phone with all kinds of people"; my heart about jumped out of my chest. I was thinking the worst, why else would she be on the phone? Well they have no idea what's going on, everything came back okay, so another doctor comes in and tells us we're going to do an xray and a bladder scan and we had a long talk; which isn't worth going into. We head to xray and got that done, then head over to the hospital to get the bladder scan done. It was okay, but I felt like one of the nurses was incompetent and I could have done a way better job, the other was great. Reminds me why "I just stay home with my kids"... yeah.. not a laughing matter when you say that to the crabby run down momma. Ha ha!Turns out all the rest of the tests came back okay and we still have no idea what's going on. So now, we are going to wait through the holiday and the weekend to see what happens. They said that whatever is going is not life threatening so that's good, and of course if he's in horrible pain we will take him to the emergency room, but we wait. If things don't clear up we go into more invasive tests, which I don't want to do, but will. We finally got home after 5:00pm tonight. It was a long visit.

I feel really frustrated and nervous about the entire situation. I really wanted it to show bacteria in his urine and now we really don't know anything, except it gets to sit on my nerves and make me feel icky. I don't want anything to be wrong with him. It scares me and it's going to be a long, long holiday weekend. Thanks again for your thoughts and prayers, we all appreciate them. I will keep you updated. Have a great Thanksgiving!

Crabby Mom - Beware!

That's the sign I feel I need to start wearing around, seriously. Don't aggravate me because I'm on edge. Alright, I'm not going to fly off the handle but I am NOT feeling my regular happy little self. It's been a not very good week so far and lack of sleep is making me insane.

Of course everyone knows that Kurt was gone deer hunting all weekend last week. That made me exhausted even though I had fun with my sisters and family. It just throws us for a loop and I didn't get hardly any sleep because it's really hard to get two little kids to sleep when they're cranky alone. One cries and the other wakes up. I'm very thankful Kurt helps with getting them to bed.

Monday I took Landen to the Doctor to find out that he was probably "playing" the pee game. I wasn't very happy that I paid for someone to tell me stupid stuff I already knew and that nothing was wrong. Well it's not getting better but worse if anything. The poor little guy knows it's not working right, can't sleep and actually peed his pants last night that he hasn't done in months and months. By the way, he's been potty trained for nearly a year so that's not part of the problem. I'm waiting for eight o'clock now to try to get in for another UA test. I can't go much longer with this and neither can he.

I wrote one of the sponsors for my Review blog to send a winner their prize when I actually had it. I felt so embarrassed and bad for the irresponsibility. He was very understanding, but I hate doing things like that.

The Mary Doll I really, really wanted to get Amelia for Christmas they no longer make. That makes me sad because I wanted to get it last year and didn't because she was only a few months old. Now she'll never get one. =(

For some reason the last month or so I've been getting acne. I used to get it on my back years ago and it's back along with on my face. I can't stand it.. I'm thinking of trying that proactive stuff? I feel like a pimple face.

So, as you can see I'm crabby, irritable and in serious need of a really long nap. I must take care of my babies though and I have to say - my resolution for FAMILIA was to be more Christ like to my children and despite being a total crab apple I've been doing great.

It's now breakfast time. A few prayers for the Dr. visit would be nice. I hope he does have a UTI so we can get on an antibiotic and be done with this because he's not playing.

WW: The Cutest Rocker Around

Hockey Fun & More

Kurt was gone all weekend deer hunting, unfortunately he didn't get a deer because now he will be going again in a couple of weeks and I can't stress enough how much I hate when he's gone. It turns our life upside down.

While he was gone some of my sisters, the kids and I went to a hockey game my sister won tickets for. It was a lot of fun and strange not having Kurt there (considering he's the hockey nut in this family). Landen was chanting and having so much fun; Amelia was in love with the pretzel cheese (see below) and we all got our picture taken with the armadillo. I hope we can go again.

The girls with the armadillo - Mikyla, Landen, Savannah, Armadillo, Me, Sara, Amelia & Maggie. Aren't we cute?

Amelia in love with the pretzel cheese; pretty much all she cared about!

Landen getting ready to throw is chuck a puck!

On a yucky note, I took Landen to the Doctor today. All weekend and nights he's been doing the - "I have to pee" and then doesn't have to go a lot of the time. He just says - "it won't come out." I really thought he was acting because it seemed at very convenient times he wanted to go (right when we were in the car, church, bedtime, etc.) but I ended up deciding to take him in because I didn't want him to be having a UTI and suffering. All the tests came back okay.. so... either the kid is faking it and we're going to have to work on it or he has more going on, in which we are going to wait awhile and see what happens. With Kurt being gone things have been kind of crazy here so I'm hoping he's getting into that stage and just being difficult - I hate for something to be wrong. I also think that peeing is something I can't take away or stop him from doing. Like if he wants a drink or to watch tv when it's bedtime I can say no, but peeing I can't really say no too (well I can, but you know what I mean). So, that's what we dealt with today.

Now I must go order some Christmas gifts and get going on the laundry! =)

Butterfly Award

Jennifer from My Musing gave me this beautiful award and I'm thankful that she enjoys my blog! I hope many others do because I love to keep up with my blog - when I have time! Be sure to stop by Jennifers blog, she has a great Catholic blog and you can learn a lot.

Here are the rules before I get to my list that deserves this award! I believe some of you have already received this, but I don't care. If you deserve it to me, I will award it to you again. =) I feel like I have a lot in common with these woman, especially our Faith which is very important to me.

1. Pick people and pass this award to them.

2. Then contact them and let them know that you have chosen them and their blog for the award.

3. Also link back to the person who gave you the award.

*Sharon from The Birds Nest - One of the very first blogs I started reading. I love everything about her site. We have a lot in common and I feel like I've known her forever.

*Cassie from Blessed Catholic Life - Cassie is so inspirational and has a wonderful Catholic blog.

*Lerin from Beautfil Chaos - I haven't been reading her blog for that long, but I always find it uplifting, encouraging and faith filled.

*Heather from We're Just getting Started - I love how she puts it all out there and isn't afraid to speak the truth.

*Jennifer from The Pfaffl house - The girl who made me start blogging, the girl that told me we were supposed to be friends, and a true friend that I'm blessed to know. Even though she doesn't blog regularly *wink, wink* she is deserving!

*Ellen from Thrifty & Chic Mom - I started reading because of her thrifty posts and then I found out she's a Catholic mom who I can totally relate to. I'm blessed to have met you and looking forward to a Catholic mom blog soon!?? =)

*Rebecca at Rebecca's Rendezvous - How can she not have an awesome site, she's my sister! I'm very excited that she's blogging and I can keep up with her a little more.

*Kate Wicker at Momopoly - Very inspirational, encouraging and amazing. I love her site and even though I've been very behind on reading; Congratulations on your pregnancy!

WW: Possible Family Christmas Picture?

Cold In The Hood * update *

I'm pretty sure if I stepped out of this 'room' in our house I could see my breath. It's freezing in here! Our furnace went out sometime on Sunday and even though the repair man was here yesterday morning the part won't come in until sometime today. One of Kurt's co-workers brought by some space heaters so we could keep warm and of course last night it got colder than it has all fall. We're all bundled up in here, but I want my furnace back. If it doesn't get fixed soon I'm out of here.

* Well it's fixed, thank goodness. I seriously was ready to start crying, I hate being cold. Now just a matter of time for this house to warm up. Warm soup is on the stove, coffee in the maker, the sound of a running furnace, and my kids singing 'my guardian angel is watching over me'.. ahh.. the good life. *

Tweet, Tweet - I'm Twittering

I finally joined the many other people and started Twittering. I wasn't going to, but I'm thinking it will be good exposure for Momma In Flip Flops2. I'm learning the ropes but it doesn't seem as great as everyone makes it sound. Maybe I'm just not that 'into' it yet! I have been making updates, and learning the rules of tweeting and all that jazz. If you twitter, feel free to follow me. My tweet name is: mommainflipflop! Happy Tweeting!

Babywearing Week & Guest Post

As you may have read below it's International Babywearing Week and I love babywearing! I have a guest post up over at my friend Ellen's fabulous blog - Thrifty & Chic Mom. Don't forget to enter her contest for a Beco Butterfly Carrier either.

The Freedom of Choice Act

Do you know what FOCA is? I certainly did not until the day after the presidential election and it seems a lot of things came known to me after that. We get a beautiful newsletter in our bulletins about once a month on Sundays called Life Matters. I believe I've brought some things up from it before. However, I was so glad to get this one all about FOCA because it really made me even more aware of what it was all about. It showed how different it really is compared to Roe v. Wade.

For those of you who don't know FOCA is "The Freedom of Choice Act," which Senator Obama has promised Planned Parenthood would be the first thing he would sign as President is dangerous legislation and it must be exposed."

The "Freedom of Choice Act": Most Radical Abortion Legislation In U.S. History"
The Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) would eliminate every restriction on abortion nationwide.

1. FOCA will invalidate laws to protect a woman from unsafe abortion clinics and to ensure that she is informed about abortion.
2. FOCA will require taxpayers to pay for abortions
3. FOCA will require states to allow "partial-birth" and other late-term abortions.
4. FOCA will require states to allow abortions by non-physicians
5. FOCA will bar laws protecting a right of conscientious objection to abortion
6. FOCA will deny parents an opportunity to be involved in their minor daughter's abortion decision.

If you would like to read this article from Life Matters just let me know and I'll copy and send it to you. You can also read more here. After reading all of this it really makes me sad, the unborn really need our prayers, and we need to pray that this doesn't get passed. Click below to sign the fight FOCA petition.

Help me out - Catholic Mommy's

I've been looking for Catholic Christmas gifts for Landen and Amelia. I've been finding tons of things but it's starting to get a bit overwhelming. I don't know what's a big hit, so I thought I would ask those of you that read this that are Catholic. Do your kids have something that's faithful that they really love? After getting that CD I thought it'd be best to just ask others what they're kids really like and go from there. I really want to get Amelia a Mary doll, but I'm not sure if she's still to young only being 15 months. I like the Jesus dolls too. What about DVD's, certain books? I want them geared towards their ages right now (3 and 1), so many things I've heard of are for older kids. I'd love any input, please! It's getting closer and closer and I need to get on it.

The little model!

I had to get a picture of Amelia in this diaper for a company and even though I don't like to show stuff that has to do with reviews before the review, this picture makes me laugh. This is the face you get when someone is sick of pictures. Ha ha ha!

On a sad note, we've started in with round two. Landen started getting sick on Monday and is just laying around today. He's really snotty and running a fever. Oooh... hopefully he starts getting perkier soon.

She's my baby pack!

It's International Babywearing Week and jumping in on the babywearing posts. To start off Steph at Adventures in Babywearing has a really fun Mr. Linky that you can see all kinds of babywearing posts from different babywearing moms. You can also enter for the chance to win a Pop Nest Sling or a Sparrow Hatchling Sling from Nonny & Boo! Don't forget to join the Babywearing Blog Roll while you're at it.

I've been babywearing since Amelia was born and she's 15 months now. I remember wanting to babywear when Landen was born, but it was so intimidating to me. My mom gave me a Snuggli and a hotsling, but they didn't fit correctly and I easily gave up. Before Amelia was born I was determined to try it again, as I had met my friend Teri who was a babywearer and had really gotten into reading blogs from Stephanie and Sharon who were babywearing and it looked amazing. Now I know so many great momma's that babywear!!! Anyway, Amelia was born and I still didn't have any type of carrier. Thankfully the midwife that was at my birth gave me a Moby type wrap (that her daughter made - thanks again Becca.) I was still intimidated but I tried it. I was so scared, I thought Amelia was going to fall out, or that she quit breathing and yes I had her off instantly. After that day it was history, I wore her all the time. She loved it, my son got attention, she wasn't left on the ground or in her seat and we were all happy. Enjoy my pictures of my different carriers!

This is the first day I ever wore my baby! I look back on this and a few other photos when I was first starting out and don't know how I ever wore her like that. I didn't have it on correctly. Oh well! this is the moby like wrap my friend made. Gotta love the pink.

This is my Cuddling Baby Mei Tai I bought once I new she could fit easily in one- by far one of my favorite carriers when the child is a bit older. It's so easy to tuck away and bring everywhere!

My Rockin' Baby Hotsling. I love the fabric and how it's reversible to be red on the other side. It's absolutely gorgeous! I like this carrier for quick things, but with how big Amelia is now my shoulder starts to hurt after awhile. I can't wait to try it on an infant!

My sleepy wrap. Once again I don't use this that often with Amelia being older, however it's really nice and stretchy and for me easy to nurse in! It's so comfy. Amelia is actually nursing in this photo.

The Beco Butterfly I'm all about wearing on the back. It's so easy to put on and if you're going to wear a bigger child for a long time it's really nice, just like a backpack - a baby pack! It's really pretty too!

So, that's all of them. I have heard so many great things about ring slings I would like to try one eventually! I really have no idea what I would do if I didn't babywear. It's a blessing to be able to keep your child next to you all the time, they love it and it really makes your life easier. Read all my babywearing posts here and thanks for stopping by!

The New Look!

How do you all like my new header? Oh and don't forget my new button that you can link to me with. I think they look great! I entered to win a new header at the Bloggy Carnival from Kelli at Country Mommie and I won. I was estatic and love the new look. Kelli was great to work with and really wanted to make sure I got what I wanted. She was fun, easy to work with and very nice. If you're looking for a new look, check her out!

I hate the news

I just have to say... the news is annoying, depressing and I really don't know why I waste my time watching. If I hear the word Obama one more time I'm going to scream!

Bringing a smile to your face!

Before I get off of here and do my regular things.

That kids music CD is doing works. I had to share these! There seems to be more, the more we listen to it, but right now I only have 1/2 of a functioning brain.

Amelia was up at 1:15am asking for Jesus (gee-z).

Landen - "Mom, there are three persons in God and it's called the Trinity"

Amelia - " Jesus, Jesus (gee-z, gee-z)" as she marches around the house with her fist in the air.

Landen - "Jesus is in my heart and my legs"

Plunging in with my Time and Talents

I believe I mentioned awhile ago that I was going to join some of the groups at our church. Well I got the paper and it still sat in the diaper bag a good three weeks. I turned it in and got the ball rolling. I joined our Pro-life group and got asked to hand out the pamphlets for voting two weeks ago. I'm not sure what else is involved, but there will be meetings and I definitely have some ideas I'd like to bring up, so I'm excited about that.

I also joined our Elizabeth Ministry's and comes to find out, I will once again be the only young person in the group. Or so that's what the lady told me. Not much is involved with this anymore she said, but I feel this is a good place for me to start with helping out. As I'm being pulled further away from La Leche League I'm getting closer into our Church which is what's more important and being there for the woman of our Parish. The beginning of the year there will be a small initiation into the program and a blessing ceremony. Hmmfph.. should be interesting. I'm anxious though and hope it all goes well. I can't wait to be able to say more about this. =) I also think maybe this is just one step of me getting closer to the Catholic Mother's League. One day I feel like I really want to dive in and the next not, so I'm just letting God guide me and I know if it's what I really am supposed to do, it will present itself in a different manner.

I'm thinking too that maybe there needs to be some new young blood into these groups that's why there isn't much to it anymore. Not that these woman aren't doing an okay job, but there could definitely be more.

Both my babies finally are waking up. It was a long night once again and I should have taken a nap with them, however the phone kept ringing.

Sad with Hope

I will admit that my heart sank after realizing Barack Obama was voted as our new President. It made me sick and sad at the same time. Lots of nice posts I have read but I don't feel like saying anything nice really. Instead as I'm going through my regular reads I found this from Lerin at Beautiful Chaos, mostly written by Fr. Frank Pavone, National Director, Priests for Life. It made me smile and think there is hope. Someday (hopefully soon) the unborn will have a right to live.

WW: Better Late Than Never

A little more Halloween fun!

Music CD for Kids

I have been thinking for awhile now that I really want to get more Catholic things in our house for our children. It's just not as convenient as just picking up something here or there, but I really want to make more of a effort. It's really important and I want those sorts of things not to be rare, but my kids to be immersed in their faith in all areas. Ellen told me about this music CD - Kids Sing For Jesus (Catholic Songs for Little Ones) by The Rennas and this is the best CD I have ever had for the kids. Landen and Amelia love it, they sing, they dance and they go around the house shouting - Jesus loves me. After only hearing the songs a few times they know the words and Landen said to me a couple of days ago - Mom, Jesus is in my heart. I know I tell him this a lot but just another great way to instill their faith in them. I know a lot of my readers are Catholic and this would make a great Christmas gift. I wanted to share since I wouldn't have known about it if Ellen wouldn't have shared it with me. You can listen to snippets of the entire CD on the website here.

Back to my regular schedule posting.. I hope!

It's been one of those weeks, you know the ones where you literally want to pull your hair out?

Lets see, where did it all go wrong. Amelia got hit in the head with a plastic bat last Thursday. Total accident on Landen's part, they were playing so sweet outside and in a splint second he pulled the bat back and she took a bigger/smaller step and got hit. Literally that think puffed up in the matter of seconds. My heart was racing, Landen was screaming, Amelia was screaming in half shock. We got some ice on it and she was a lot better, she just has a horribly ugly black, blue and yellow bruise on half of her forehead.

Halloween was fun! We went to Kurt's work and did the whole trick or treating thing. Landen loved it this year and figured it out quite quickly. Amelia just wanted to bite through candy. We came home and with it being so warm we sat out side handing out candy for awhile. Landen was yelling - trick or treaters, candy this way. It was hilarious, he had more fun handing out candy then he did getting it.

Saturday Amelia slowly started getting sick. By the end of the night she was throwing up and all I could/can think of is that it's those molars coming it. She had that horrible poop they get. Saturday night was not fun, her and I were up most of the night. Sunday wasn't much better except she decided she wasn't going to eat, but she was still nursing a little so I thought it was okay. Monday came and little miss sunshine decided she wasn't going to nurse or eat. That kind of freaks me out, but at least she wasn't puking so much. Today it seems like she wants to nurse more but she's so plugged she can't. I don't know really what it is, but at least she'll eat, oh and her nasty fever is pretty much gone. Things are looking up! However, nursing is the only way she falls asleep and that has been a challenge, she's been in the mei tai mostly because that's the only other way she'll sleep. It's exhausting, I take nursing her to sleep for granted because when you can't/she won't it really stinks. On that same note, my boobs could not hurt any worse. I had to wake up in the night and pump because they were exploding and had to pump several times yesterday. Not pleasant... exploding boobs are NOT FUN.

Amelia has thrush again to top it off. I can't even get going on this because it makes me mad. We've done everything and I still have the medicine from before so I'm going to use it even thought it might not be as strong. Arghh!

So, embarrassing as this is I'm going to tell you all. I finally went to the Dr. yesterday and got my warts froze off (or at least I hope they fall off). I have a couple of the plantar ones and then one on my knee that just appeared this summer and is growing at rapid force and one on my toe. Sick! I hate them, hate them and they are quite embarrassing. I had tried to freeze them myself but it wasn't working, so I decided to go this way instead. Anyway, why I bring this disgusting issue to my blog. Well, the Doctor is pretty Holistic is seems like in some ways and she told me that if you put duct tape on warts for 3 weeks or so they'll fall off. No freezing or any of it. So if you have a wart put duct tape on it - the all purpose solution to everything!

In other news.. well there isn't any other news except I have to start thinking Christmas gifts and I don't want too. I love the thought of Christmas music, decorating, etc but the finding gifts thing.... not so much. Well I certainly hope to get back to blogging regularly (here). I won a blog header makeover at the Blog Carnival so hopefully I'll have a new look to show off soon.

Where have I been you ask?

Well... a few different reasons why I haven't been keeping up on this here blog this last week!

1. I've been working hard on Momma In Flip Flops2, taking up a lot of time. Thinking it might be time to add on a second mom. Getting ready for the big Cloth Diaper month in November. Don't miss it!

2. The Bloggy Carnival is in full swing and seriously once you start entering the contests, you get addicted... very, very addicted. Just one more I say... and then there are 5 more up on my task bar to enter. Yep... serious addiction. Don't miss out, it ends Friday!

3. I'm making our own cloth napkins, not a lot of work, but it does take time. Landen and Amelia have been helping, and no they are not perfectly square. They'll work though. Cream with red stitching. I'm going to make some more with different stitching too.

4. Attempting to keep up with the necessary things to get done around here. I made it through Landen and Amelia's dressers to discover we need to buy another tote for clothing that's too small. Almost finished with my clothes. Have you ever noticed that woman have so many clothes because we are so many different sizes? Pre pregnancy weight, just pregant, big pregnant, post pregnant, post pregnant still to fat to fit into pre pregnant clothes, regular clothes. Yep.. we need a lot of clothes!

5. Getting ready for Halloween. Pumpkins carved and Halloween costumes done! No I didn't make them. LOL!! Landen's did need a few things done to it since it was a cheapo one from Walmart and Amelia's crown had to be made smaller. I know, I know, she was going to be a witch. Well I fell in love with this princess costume when it went on clearance. Whatever, she's my first girl. Next year she WILL be a lion from the costume Landen used. Hee,hee. Enjoy pictures!

That's the main things that have been keeping me away! I'll be back to my regular scheduling posting have the bloggy carnival and whatever else we have coming up. =)

Love Being a Mom

Oh yes, I love being a mom! This video has got to give some of you a good ol' smile. I can't take credit for finding this. I first saw it on Right here in this moment blog and had to let me readers view it. Enjoy being a mom!!! Have a blessed weekend.

Examples

Yesterday we made our regular trip to story time at the library. I have to admit I do get sick of going every single week, but it's almost over and the kids love it. Amelia is already singing and loving the Tick Tock song, I think she looks forward to it more than Landen and she isn't even to the 18 month age that they start the kids at. It's just so cute!

Well I was surprised to have a local Children's Music place do the 45 minute story time. What they do is incorporate music into your child's life and it was geared towards children of that age. I absolutely loved it and so did Landen and Amelia. We sang, did all kinds of music with shakers, danced and I loved how the teacher kept instructing how parents are children's number 1 role models so if we're just standing there then they aren't going to want to participate. I know for myself at story time I get totally into it, we have so much fun and sing really loud. However, I never really pay attention to the other parents, until yesterday. The instructor kept saying it over and over - if you don't do it your kids won't and as I'm looking around people were just sitting there, intimidated to sing loudly and dance around. It just made me think about how people are so on that whole 'social' thing and I don't agree that your kids have to be around other kids to develop social skills and things. My kids are very social, but I think I'm pretty social. I'm not afraid to talk and jabber, or get down and do all the fun things even if I look like a fool. I know everyone is different, but have people ever thought maybe they aren't that social, that's why they're children are that way? Just like with manners - we always say please and thank you along with other things and we get asked, how come Landen is already on that, do you really get on him. No, not really - we use them and it's just natural. I know this could get into this big lengthy post, but we are the number one examples in everything, not just faith, but socialization too. =)

I loved the music for the kids and how she explained how music touches your whole body and then she was saying how you remember all these songs and you thing of that time when you listened to that. It's so true, there are tons of songs I listened to in college and they have no appeal to me now, I actually dislike them. That's for another time.. but I never thought of music that way. We listen to it all the time and it makes me want to try harder to find good stuff, not just my kids but for me too. =)

How Cute Is That!

Landen woke up last night (as usual) and called for his Mommy. Is just depends who he wants and no he hardly ever sleeps through the night. Who does? I don't! Anyway.. so he calls for me and I go in and lay down with him. He looks at me and goes "I went to sleep and we didn't say prayers" (he fell asleep on the couch) so he started telling me who he wanted to pray for (half asleep) and during our Hail Mary prayer he starts snoring. If that doesn't bring a smile to a mothers face at 2:30 in the morning, her son waking up because he forgot to says his prayers. Aww!

WW: The Munchkins

Don't you love when you grab the camera and aren't expecting anything and it turns out so cute? This picture captures them just exactly how they are. Landen is always cheesy and Amelia is just along for the ride. Love it!

Babywearing Quotes To Share

We did some great shopping today; got some amazing deals and of course Amelia was riding in style in the Beco baby carrier. I just have to add two funny quotes I heard from people, along with the regular "look at that" and stares from people that have obviously never seen a child being carried in a carrier before. If you don't want to get noticed, don't wear your baby in the mall! =)

"Look at that monkey" - from a little girl. Her parents had to tell us sorry for staring and as they were walking away - "It's a monkey." Ha ha!

"It's a backpack... it's a babypack" - a family thought it was quite neat to see a baby on your back! It was like they wanted to come up and try her on for themselves!

These made me laugh today so I thought I'd share!

I really do have the sweetest children

I know we all think we have the cutest, sweetest, greatest kids and that's how it's supposed to be, but in my biased opinion I really do think I have the sweetest kids ever!!!

Does this picture not melt your heart? They kiss all the time because they love eachother and no I didn't tell them to kiss! Awww!

Super Andrea

Because I have nothing better to do... really! Wouldn't I look hot as a blond? Or a brown/blond? And ... I know you love my spandex. =) Check out my Super Andrea video here and make one for yourself while your at it! Ha ha ha ha! Thanks to Kristen from An Ordinary Life for showing me this one. Hee,hee!!!

She's Walking

Amelia is finally walking... right at 15 months she decides to just take off and now is walking everywhere instead of crawling. Only 5 months later than her brother, but what do they say - all kids are different, right? She's so cute, you forget how cute they are when they're taking those awkward steps getting wherever they need to go. =) So, what do I do now about her getting on top of the table and chairs? It never ends! In other exciting news, the girl is talking so much more, and you know what she wants a lot better. Fun, fun!

Photo Phun

I saw this on Sharon and Mandy's blog and thought - "oh how cute, I'll just see what our picture is." I was laughing so hard I had to participate.

6th Folder: August/September 2006. Yes we're trying to stay organized and get these on a disc. Ha ha ha!!


Landen wearing my old nasty broken sunglasses! He's just over a year old.. doesn't he look goofy? Oh I just love my family!!!!!!!!!!

Respect Life Month

October is Respect Life month and I've been wanting to write something on my blog about it but haven't known exactly what I want to write. It sometimes seems like I'm playing a broken record when I'm constantly talking about it and I have the same readers that I do - but oh well I guess!

Today though I felt happy and sad at the same time while fighting the battle to end Abortion. See, today was the day that so many (or so little) took part in the Life Chain across the USA and Canada. I've been meaning to take part in this many times before but have always made an excuse (sadly) or I didn't know about it because nobody told me. Today my family went to do our part - Kurt, Landen, Amelia and I! I was so proud of Kurt for being there, so proud of the kids for being so well behaved and Landen actually held the sign sometimes. "Pray to End Abortion" - "God is Prolife" we stood as silently as we could, some in prayer, spreading out as far as we could (which wasn't far), with some rude nasty comments from passing cars that were greeted with a smile and many honking horns from supporters that I just wanted to say - "Please stop and stand with us." It made me happy and mad at myself for not making a commitment in the past to do this, but know now I won't make an excuse anymore. It also makes me sad how it can be asked, and made public and so few people respond. I told Kurt today and I know it's not like this for everyone - but is there really things more important? Can you not take 1 hour out of your Sunday to stand together on such an important issue? I'm not pointing fingers and I will not judge any one's heart but I wish someone would have told me sooner how powerful this message could be if just more people were together. What does it say when only a handful of people are trying to spread the message? I know it says something, but on another hand it also says very little. I just wish I could have scooped up more people myself, spoken to more people's hearts and gotten them there. I also think it's sad when almost everyone there is elderly and only a couple of families.. common, show what your saying when your saying "life" these precious gifts.

I signed up to join our Pro-Life committee last week and one of the ladies about started crying - "Praise be to God" - a young woman joining. I know God has been telling me for a couple of years to get active in this and finally I listen, but it just about brought tears to my eyes. Will I be the only young one in this group? That's fine, but what's wrong with our young people, what does that say when only elderly are taking the time? Sure, maybe people don't have time, but I'm sick of hearing not have time for important issue. Sure, don't have time for donuts or something, but important things? Once again, not judging anyone just a bit mad at myself in wanting to make more of a difference and just now trying. God will defeat this evil, but we can't just stand around doing nothing about it.

Please, if you only have something negative to say about this post, please refrain... I don't have the heart to hear it right now. =( This is my blog and this is how I feel right now.

A little music please

La la la la la la... guess what I'm ddddoooiiiinnngggg today? Going to pick up my double jogging stroller. That's right, you read it correctly.. we're finally going to get one and it doesn't require me to drive across the state or to spend a million trillion dollars. My friend Teri is getting one more to her liking and she's going to sell me hers. La la la la la... I even had a dream about it last night. I'm excited, no more pulling the wagon up and down those hills or worse running with the wagon! Tomorrow it's supposed to be super nice and you can bet we're gonna be out ... maybe we'll try the dog trail thing we haven't tried. Here's a picture of it! Thank you, Thank you Teri!! You're awesome!

My sister has a Blog!

My sister Rebecca got a name picked and has her first blog up and going. Check her out at Rebecca's Rendezvous and welcome her to the blogging world!

Gonna Freak Out

I think it's hilarious when you find out what you say a lot when your kids start telling you!

I've heard this more than enough times today....

"Dad is going to freak out.... because"
..we got Sleeping Beauty
..my bear is dry
..his sandals are on my hands
..the door handle fell off...

Oh and believe me there is more. Ahhh... what else do I say? =)
No, the freak out is freaking out in a good way... most of the time!

WW: Combine Time

Landen had the best time riding the combine at my parents house. The only talk we have here lately is combine/tractor/farming talk. Today we found all these tractor combine books at the library and Landen has to sit and show one of his friends how that's grandpa's tractor but grandma drives it and Uncle Kevin if Grandpa says. Oh my gosh, the kid remembers and thinks he knows it all. "When are we going to ride combine again." Times likes this I really wish we lived closer!

My kind of commercial

I know this commercial is old but I saw it again and it always makes me smile! Enjoy. =)

Oh The Stink

Dumb Cubs got swept, second straight year.... no more baseball. =(

Now I must begin my suffering of Hockey.... HELP!!!!!

I wanna wear woolly tights too...

Oh how fall has come entirely too soon. Summer just started and we're definitely back in the full swing of fall. It's chilly here... Amelia is wearing woolly tights, we're in sweatshirts and jeans. This is not my kind of weather... I always think fall is my favorite but summer is definitely what I love the most. I love those hot days where you have to worry about sun screen and trying to keep cool. I would way rather try to keep cool that try to keep warm.. mostly because I never get warm. The trees are all starting to turn, they look so beautiful. I'm anxious to get some great pictures to maybe fill Christmas cards with... I always say that and it never happens.

Landen and I pulled all our fall/Halloween decorations out from the basement today. He's been having fun running around the house screaming at the pumpkins. We put up orange lights and a few little sticky things.. we don't have much but it's still fun to have a little change. I bought some mums for outside, as my other flowers are slowly dying off. I love color and need it as long as possible. This last week we made a butterfly garden.. well the start of one. We made a corner fence in our front yard and I planted two butterfly bushes and will be adding more plants that attract butterflies next year. I can't wait!!! It's going to be gorgeous and anything to attract more butterflies and hummingbirds the better. =)

We finally made it to Children's Adoration again this month. Over the summer we missed a lot because we either had plans or I forgot. Oops! It was really nice even though Amelia insists on climbing the stairs to get to the alter. She's quite the frisky little thing and was making everyone laugh. Unfortunately it seems that our Children's Adoration group is getting smaller. Things that I love never seem to attract other people, sadly. On that same note - I was actually able to sit through the entire mass last week thanks to my wonderful husband who took Amelia out. Oh my goodness it was great. Father spoke right to my heart about Stewardship and I went into today to get the sheets that I had thrown out before. Right now I'm going to sign up to make a dish when there is a funeral and help with the pro-life committee. I'm not sure how much I can do with the pro-life but I felt like I wanted to do that two years in a row so I'm going to take the plunge and do it. I know the lady in charge pretty well and she knows how I am with my kids so the things I can't make I'm sure she'll understand. Plus I have some good idea's I need to get out there!!! And as for giving more money - I think we need to be more giving in that way so I'm going to start trying.

Since this is more or less a post of my thoughts - I've decided to stop concentrating so much with La Leche League. I'm the only one doing the work for the enrichment meetings so I'm going to collect all my information and hand it over to the leaders at the next meeting. I said I wasn't going to be a leader so I need to quit acting like one or something. I will be glad to help but I'm not going to take it on myself anymore. I really hope that we're able to do some of the things we've thought of because they'd be so great!

Just a reminder... I have a Mei Tai giveaway this week on my review blog. Enter if you haven't already. This week has been slow over there - I didn't schedule some things in for review and then some didn't fall through, but I've got new things going up at least three times a week until mid November so check back often. I'm excited because A LOT of places have been e-mailing me for reviews now; it took awhile but it's taking off. I also submitted my info to the girls at Simple to start working with them. If I get picked; which who knows as I bet a lot of people submit I'm going to quit Props N' Pans. I like doing reviews for them but I won't be able to hand three and I'd much rather review for Simple. =)

Have a great weekend!

WW: Scenary

I'm really not one to take pictures of the scenery without someone in it and if I do - I always end up deleting it before it even gets downloaded. I've had this one for awhile now and something about it I love. It reminds me of Deer season, the corn just getting ripe in the background, the sky is peaceful.. I just really like it a lot! Taken at my in laws house when Landen was running in and out of the tree's.

We Are One Body

I first heard this song at our church when I was pregnant with Landen and every single time it makes me cry. It starts before any of the words and I get tears in my eyes. I wanted to share it because I really like it. This choir does a good job with it, but I like the more upbeat version our church sings a bit better.

And it's back . . .

The dreaded thrush is back along with colds from the stupidest weather ever. Luckily I caught the thrush early on Amelia and we got to the Doctor the next day and things are looking better. I've now caught it though and we're both taking Nystatin again (because they won't give me Diflucan) in 1 1/2 months. I really hope this isn't going to be a regular occurring thing we catch.

I also bought Poly-vi-sol for Amelia to start taking. When I asked the Doctor what her thoughts were, she agreed that putting her on something would be a good idea since she does seem to catch anything and everything, unlike her brother. I put Landen on those Fl intones vitamins when he quit nursing and was planning on doing the same with Amelia but I guess she'll just get mommy milk and a vitamin to help her out. I hope it makes a difference.

Another note about the thrush, Amelia face broke out again (all over her left cheek) right when the thrush came back. The Doctors keep telling me that it's not thrush, just dry skin... but seriously the Nystatin took care of it last time and the cream seems to be taking care of it again. Plus I really don't think it's a coincidence. Last time it was HORRIBLE and the thrush was really bad, but now both aren't that bad cause we caught it earily. So anyway, she has to be getting thrush on her cheek, it's almost moist there because she favors that side with eating... mom's definitely know best when it comes to their kids, so I guess I'll just have to do what I thinks best for it. Anyone's kid ever get thrush on their face?

Me, A Reality Star

Today I was told I'd be cute for this "Mom Reality" show trying to launch on Bravo. Ha ha ha!

Am I supposed to take this as a compliment? The conversation was a compliment but I'm not sure what kind of Reality Star I'd be. I surely wouldn't want to be considered the same as some of those crazy loons. lol!

Anyway... if I ever get the erge to be on a reality series I know I might have a better chance than I thought I would have had before. Just don't ask me to meet Flavor Flav (however you spell it.) Ha ha ha!!

Awards

Thanks to Cassie at A Blessed Life for this award - I would give this award to you if you hadn't already recieved it!

This awards meaning: "this blog makes us close."

I have definitely made some great friends from blogs and the rules state to give this to eight people that you think are deserving. However, I hate when these awards state a certain amount of people that you have to give them too because you shouldn't have to give an award to a certain amount of people, so I'm breaking the rules and giving it to however many people I want.

I'd like to give this award to three people I feel very close to just because of blogging!

Jen - The Pfaffl House - Hasn't been able to post much because of her illness but she's been in our prayers always.

Sharon - The Birds Nest

Kate - Blessed Cathlic Life