Pretty much the best spinach & artichoke dip you'll ever eat....

This dip is amazing. Every time I've made it, usually for large gatherings since it's a pretty big side dish, it has been raved over. I like to use Wheat Thins for dipping, haven't tried anything else because I think it tastes best. Let me know if you try something better. I just made this for a Christmas party a few weeks ago & forgot to take a picture of the finished product, sorry!! It really does look appetizing, too. Yum. I tried Applebee's Spinach & Artichoke dip & was very disappointed. Enjoy!!

Spinach & Artichoke Dip

1 pkg (8 oz) cream cheese (softened)

1 cup mayo (NOT miracle whip)

1 pkg Knorr veg dip & soup mix

1 pkg frozen spinach, thawed & drained

1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, strained & chopped

3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 c parmesan cheese

Combine all the ingredients except parmesan. Pour into 2 qt shallow baking dish, smooth & flatten with spatula. Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top. Bake @ 350 for 30 mins.

The only thing I can suggest is to cut down on the parmesan. I only seem to use about 1/4 of a cup, there's just ALOT. It will bubble & brown on the top but it turns out just perfect.

Finally...the winner is announced!

Soooo sorry it's taken me 6 days to announce the winner. I've been super duper busy, as I'm sure many of you will understand with the holidays & all. Plus, I've been workin like every day, it seems! haha!

Anyway, now to the point....

The winner of the World's Best Origami book is.....

#4 who said....

Morgan said...

How neat!!! I just watched a documentary not too long ago on origami....they did some crazy stuff!!

I follow you on GFC :o)

Congrats Morgan!!!!

I have emailed you & will need a response within 48 hrs or the prize will have to go to someone else :)

Usually I post a webcam pic of the winner on random.org but my webcam is having technical difficulties so I'm skipping it this time :)

Thanks to all of you for entering & for being an awesome follower!!

2 days left to enter! VERY low entry!

Click here to enter!!

I have very low entries for this giveaway & need alot more!! 

For the next 2 days (giveaway ends on 12/20 at 10pm)

I am offering 3 EXTRA entries to anyone who sends someone over to enter the Origami Book Giveaway.

Make sure your friend mentions your name!!

Then come back here & leave 3 separate comments as extra entries to win!!

It would make a fabulous & unique Christmas gift!

Thank you & GOOD LUCK!!

Ohhhh CSN, dreams do come true!

CSN is unlike alot of online websites. 

First of all, there are 200+ stores within CSN stores. I don't know any other site like that.

Second, they have pretty much the fastest shipping I've ever experience. We're talkin 2-3 days here peeps.

And third, they have almost anything you could be needing/wanting/or whatever!

The items range from unique toys for your little ones all the way to coffee tables.

For real, if you have kids, go over & check out their ginormous toy selection, it's very impressive!

I'm a fan, you should be too!

*Winner Winner!*

Winner Winner Of the Calabasas Candy Package!

Issss....

Lucky # 24

domesticbliss said...  coffee marshmallows!!

 

Congrats DomesticBliss!

You have been emailed & have 48 hrs to respond.

Thank you to all who participated!

"World's Best Origami" Book Review & Giveaway!

Remember folding paper into a hand-held fortune teller, paper airplane or secret note square? Whether a fortune teller novice or a seasoned paper-folding expert, the new book World's Best Origami (ISBN: 9781615640539, Alpha Books, November 2010, $19.95) challenges readers with more than 100 of the most unique and best-loved origami patterns ever created.

Professional origami artist, Nick Robinson, guides readers through the process of folding paper. Projects are rated from beginner to advanced and include everything from the traditional swan and poppy box to truly amazing pieces such as a geodetic tower and a jet plane! Each diagram is clearly displayed with easy-to-understand folding instructions for a perfect outcome every time. 

The book teaches readers how to:

-          Choose the best paper for the project

-     Make basic folds and perfect creases

-     Follow clear and simple folding instructions for a successful project outcome

-          Gain an understanding  of origami symbols

 My Opinion:

I was very impressed with the size of the book, especially for the price.

I loved how each origami fold is rated so you know which ones are good to start with & which are a challenge.

I found the book very intriguing. I've always had an interest in origami so I'm very excited to receive this book!

I tried a couple of the simpler folds to start out & did great! I can't wait to do more.

About the Author: Nick Robinson (London, England, UK) is a professional origami artist and author who has been folding paper for 30 years. A member of the British Origami Society who edits its magazine and maintains its website, Nick has written over 30 books on origami, as well as numerous articles, and done several commercial and charitable origami commissions involving origami and paper art over the last 20 years. Nick has created several hundred original designs and teaches origami in schools, arts centers, and many other venues. 

BUY IT

World's Best Origami is sold for $19.95

WIN IT

Alpha Books has been soo very generous to offer one of my lucky readers a copy of this fabulous World's Best Origami book!

  *Mandatory*- You must be a Google Follower to participate. If you are one, leave a comment saying you already follow & gain an entry.

• 'Like' Everyday Mama on FB 

•  Leave a comment saying why you'd like to win this giveaway

• Follow Everyday Mama on Twitter

• Post this giveaway on any giveaway linky & leave comment reference (+3 entries)

• Blog about this giveaway & leave link (+2 entries)

Contest open to US readers 18+
Contest ends Dec 20th at 10pm EST.
Winner will be chosen via random.org & emailed.
Please make sure your email is available.
If after 48 hrs, there is no response, a new winner will be chosen. 

Alpha Books, a member of Penguin Group (USA) Inc., publishes high- quality lifestyle and reference books in 30 different categories. The Complete Idiot's Guides®, Alpha Teach Yourself in 24 Hours, At Your Fingertips-- as well as other series and stand-alone titles -- provide helpful how-to information and general knowledge in an easily accessible manner.

All I want for Christmas is

Well the stomach bug that visited this house & tortured me & my youngest has gone away but it lasted way too long! I was sick for a good 36 hrs (hey, whatever happened to stomach bugs lasting 24??) Luckily, Noah only had it for 12 hrs but it was miserable for the poor lil guy. I was glad that no one else caught it or it would have cost me my Thanksgiving holiday. I did end up getting 3 days off in a row because of it though...not sure if that's good or bad. Got to use some of my sick time though! Haha.

So I didn't do any of the crazy black friday junk. I just DON'T. Dont' care, that is. I have much more important things to do at 4am...like sleep in my nice cozy bed that I just bought some warrrrrm flannel sheets for last night! Yummm. I haven't had flannel sheets since I was a teenager, I'm psyched. Such a difference from the crispy stuff when it's cold out.

I've gotten the kids most of their presents. I'm just kinda wingin' it. I worked yesterday on Black Friday at Walmart but didn't come in until 9am so I figured most of the good stuff was gone. Boy was I wrong (kinda. Maybe I should have gotten their earlier for a $20 scanner/printer because mine just broke!!). Right there smack in front of the pharmacy was 2 remaining 12" Boys Bikes for only $29!! I was so psyched. I've been needing to get Chris a bike (he still rides a metal red tricycle fit for a 2 yr old) but I haven't had the extra $60-$90 for one. I couldn't believe it was so cheap & I even got my 20% discount! Scoooore.

I still need to find a "big" present for Noah but he really doesn't want anything & it's frustrating. Also, his birthday is 8 days before Christmas so I'm wondering how the heck I'm gonna get enough presents for Christmas, let alone his birthday. Luckily he's only turning 2 because I'm clueless & he won't even care what he gets. He pretty much just loves TRUCKS & well....you can only have so many trucks!

And mama? Well, I've got a few things on my list but I don't think anyone will get them for me this year. Guess it can stay there! Oh well. My biggest wishes....

1. Ugg boots :) And probably some skinny jeans or leggings to pair with em.
2. A netbook/laptop. I'm not sure which is better or whatever but I"d just like something I can take where I go.
3. A baby GIRL! :) Guess no one can help me on that one....
4. Oh & maybe some new clothes.

That's pretty much it...I'm not too big into wanting things these days. I just like to see my boys happy & entertained! LOL

Happy Thanksgiving!! And a little announcement....

Yummmm.

Today was fabulous. Hope yours was too!!

We spent the day with Nana & Papa.

I cooked some green bean casserole that I've been craving & ate way too much of it.

We watched Harry & The Hendersons, played Wii Bowling & had a relaxing day.

I'm so very thankful for my family, small as it is. I love my kids soooo very much.

I'm thankful for my job that gives me the means to buy food & clothing & toys for my boys.

Oh & I wanted to finally announce....

I'm expecting again!!

Very very unexpected indeed but still happening. Yes, I'm still kinda in shock just a little bit.

I am SOO hoping for a girl this time. Not that I couldn't have 3 amazing little guys around here but for once, I'd like to have some pink stuff laying around & someone to play Barbies with :) (I mean, so I don't have to do it alone, HA)

I'm due July 10th & will keep everyone updated on the little bean in the belly. So far, the morning sickness is the biggest pain in my butt & I can't wait til it's over!!

Another giveaway coming soon....stay tuned!!

Oh & if you haven't entered, please go enter my Calabassas Candy Giveaway! Perfect for a Christmas gift, ends Dec 1st!!

Calabasas Candy Review & Giveaway

I was browsing Etsy.com & came across this gem of a shop.

Unique, HANDmade candies & truffles. Yuuuuum.

So I contacted Cheri of Calabasas Candy & asked if I could plleeeeease sample some of her delish merchandise. She agreed & BOY was it amazing.

She sent me a nice bag full of Lavendar Caramels, soo good!! I received them wrapped up so pretty, with a ribbon tying them closed.

Cheri makes all these candies by herself! Here's an excerpt from her etsy profile...

My name is Cheri mother of two and married to my
wonderful husband! I'm a self taught artist who has always loved art and cooking. In my first business I combined the two and started out my career as a caterer specializing in hors d' overes. After catering, I just concentrated on art and became a designer of gift items and jewelry for many years.

Last year I retired from designing and returned to my other love which is cooking. I started making candies as gifts for friends and family. When I gave some to the school counselor, she said that I had missed my calling and should make candies for a living. Well, I decided to listen to her, but did'nt know where I would sell them. My daughter told me about Etsy and set up a shop for me. I really love selling on Etsy and all the wonderful customers and friends I have made. Fellow sellers and customers have been so helpful and encouraging along the way. Thank you so much for visting my shop!

 I'm telling you, these would make fabulous Christmas gifts....

Yeah, I bet you're craving some now, aren't you??

BUY IT:

Prices start at just $5 and go up from there, so many treats to choose from!

WIN IT:

Yes, Cheri has been SO generous as to give away

1 bag of marshmallows

1/4 lb caramel bar

1/4 lb nougat bar

A $22 value all gift wrapped!

You can eat it all yourself or give it as a unique & tasty gift.

Wayyyys to win....

((You must be a public follower to participate in this giveaway, thank you!))

**Mandatory Entry- Head over to Calabasas Candy etsy shop & come back here to let me know what  you'd like to try the most

Additional entries:

• Like Everyday Mama on Facebook
• Follow Everyday Mama on twitter
• Favorite Calabasas Candy on Etsy
•  Blog about this giveaway & leave me a link to it (+3 entries)
• Send a friend over to follow me, make sure they mention your name! (+3 entries)
• Follow me via GFC
• Vote for me on Top Mommy Blogs (+1 entry daily)
• Tweet this giveaway however you like & leave link to tweet (+1 entry daily) 

Must be 18 yrs or older to participate, US only.

Giveaway ends Dec 1st at 10pm EST. Winner will drawn via random.org & emailed. 

If there is no response within 48 hrs, a new winner will be drawn.

Please make sure your email is visible & available to me. 

The rain just keeps falling....

More shocking news to my life.

i still can't share....too many people that I know read this. hehe! (thanks for reading!)

im just wondering where the "off" switch is for all the stress that keeps falling into my life.

i dont know what i would do without my mom, i really have no idea. she keeps me grounded & takes better care of me than anyone else.

i need her more than ever right now.

anyway....

i'm off work tomorrow & the next day, thank goodness!!

i've had some type of throat/chest cold goin on & it keeps gettin worse everyday i have to be at work talkin to customers. i keep having coughing fits & have to leave the customer standing to go drink some water...makes me feel stupid, lol.

tomorrow, chris has to go get fillings! i cant believe it. i dont know why, we brush his teeth very well. and leonel has never ever had a cavity (he's 23) & i only got them after pregnancies (when i was 19). so its odd that he has 2 cavities already! i hope he's not too scared & it doesnt hurt. they aren't giving any type of cooky gas or novocaine...so we'll see!

im having a very hard time coming up with things to say on here. my life has taken a drastic turn & most things, i dont particularly want to go into detail about for now. maybe later, i will. sorry for the fans im losing. please stick around!

Love always!!

Another CSN review!!

I <3 CSN stores! They have the most amazing variety, it's almost impossible to narrow down just what you might want. Their customer service is impeccable & I'm all around impressed.

I did a review for CSN just last month & they have given me the awesome opportunity to do another so of course I jumped on it!

I've been admiring their gorgeous drop leaf tables they have. C'mon, tell me they aren't to die for! I'm in desperate need for a new table but I dunno if I can scrounge up the cash anytime in the near future. *sigh*

As you may remember, while choosing what I would get for my last review, I won a gift card for CSN from another blog! How awesome.

I got an amazing new diaper bag & let me be honest, had a little mix-up with CSN. They sent me the same print, same brand but wrong "style" of Skip Hop diaper bag. But you know what, CSN stores made the exchange policy the simplest I've ever seen. They sent me the correct bag right away & I got it in 2 days! They had UPS pick-up the incorrect bag for no charge. Like I said, impeccable service!

Isn't it so cute???

And.....

Their shipping is super quick! Everything I ordered came within a few days. No other site has ever done that!

I can't say enough about CSN! Head on over & visit their site of over 200+ stores!

The Skinny Jean Dilemma

So I bought my first pair of skinny jeans about a month or so ago & have to say, I absolutely love those things.

I think it's sooo comfy to wear pants that gather at the ankle, feels so streamlined.

I never thought I'd enjoy a pair but I guess I put my foot in my mouth on that one I do now.

So during the summer & now into early fall, I still wear my flip flops with them. 

(No I'm not one of those who pairs them with a pair of clunky sneakers (EEEK!)

 

But in the winter, what do you wear with a pair of skinny jeans?

Oh & besides boots. I'm too cheap to buy those things. I have one pair I got on sale...so it's a possibility.

But what about when I don't *want* to wear boots?

Would ballet flats suffice? LOL I sound so intelligent tonight, not sure what's up with all the proper grammar here.

I need advice! This is for the fashion impaired. I don't dress horribly but I'm not the biggest fashionista. I have to think long & hard to put together an outfit while buying it, maybe it's just because I don't have all the moolah to throw around for a fantastic ensemble. {Who knows.}

Anyway, does anyone know? Leave this girl a comment & help her out!

Much appreciated!

Sorry I've been MIA....

Sorry I've been quiet lately. Alot of crap is going on in my life lately & honestly, I can't even bring myself to blog about my feelings. Please stay a loyal fan, I don't wanna lose anyone. Promise I can be alot more exciting :) 

A quick note...

Goin to do my Walk For Life tomorrow a few towns away, I'm pretty excited. I raised $125!! That's way more than I expected to raise so I'm glad I can contribute to such a great cause. I get free breakfast, then do an hour of walking around a local park, then a free lunch & free shirts & prizes! Sounds like fun to me! I'm goin by myself too so it will be nice to get away for a little while.

Also....

I've ALMOST lost 10 lbs total now! I fell off the wagon for a few weeks & just wasn't goin anywhere on my scale. BUT I didn't go up & that's all that matters! I just hit an even 130 yesterday & hope to get down to 125 at least, then we will see from there! 

And a quickie of cuteness....

Noah's new favorite phrase (he's 22 months) is "I don't want it mommy! I don't want it!" He says this anytime I dare serve him the wrong type of what he wanted or maybe even in the wrong bowl or cup. Ha! He even falls on the floor with a pathetic whimper. But before he does this, he pushes the cup and/or bowl away & yells, "No! I don't want it, Mommy!!" It's so cute, I have to turn away so he doesn't see me giggling. That lil guy is the most talkative babe I've ever known, I love it!

Until next time.... Stick around!!!

I'm a WINNER! & new Stride giveaway winner announced!

I'm SOOOO excited!!

All I have to say is peeps, ALWAYS check your spam folder!!

For some reason, my WINNER email went to my spam folder!

Had I not checked it, I would have been oh so sad. :( This made my week!!
A $40 giftcard to CSNstores.com!
40 free dollars?? Hecks yes.

PLUS I'm still waiting for the item I want to stop being OUT OF STOCK for my review for CSN, yep, I have a $35 giftcard just waiting around...so NOW I have $75 total! Isn't that just amazing?? Maybe I can win another giveaway before my item gets to the warehouse again...

I'm so so tickled pink, it's kinda ridiculous. :D

OH yes & btw...I have now chosen a new winner for the Stride Everyday Panty giveaway...

The new winner is JAMIE.

Jamie, you have been emailed & must reply within 48 hrs or the prize will be forfeited....again. I would hate to re-draw! haha!

Goodnight my readers!!

Winner of the Stride Everyday Panties is....

The winner of the Stride Everyday Panty giveaway is....

(taken with my webcam, sorry! easiest method is the way to go)

lucky #3 was 'Heather' who said she is now following me on GFC

CONGRATS Heather!! 

Thank you for participating & becoming a loyal Everyday reader!

I'm on my way to notify you now, you have 48 hrs to respond or I will re-draw a winner.

{{EDIT!! I cannot notify you because I am not able to view your profile so you must contact me within 48 hrs to attain your prize. If not, I will re-draw. Thank you.}}

Thanks! Much loves to all who entered!

Weight loss, pre-school, & job updates. Yikes!

Hello Everyday Followers!

Just wanna post a little something to keep you up to date on us over here in O-Hi-O.

Mannn oh man I'm sore tonight. Did my taebo 2 days in a row, usually I take a break in between....but after the 600 calorie Dunkin Donut pumpkin muffin today, I just had to. Who knew they were 600 calories??

Seriously. I should have just gotten the donut I wanted. Sheesh.

(There's only 340 cal in the donut, fyi.)

Sooo...I've lost 8 whole pounds!! And I'm suuuuper excited to share that with my bloggy followers!

You can keep up with my weight loss by checkin out my little widget on my sidebar, it updates automatically when I weigh-in. 

And if you haven't checked out my Fitness Pal, you should. And make sure you add Luvr4ula as a friend when you do!

Lots of little changes lately that kind of get under my skin, I'm not a fan of life changes. Little changes are cool like what I eat for dinner every night or what I watch on TV. But when it comes down to every day life like jobs & houses & cars....no thanks. I'd rather just leaves things as they lie & deal with it. I'm not sure why....just always afraid for what will happen if it's the wrong decision. 

Leonel changed jobs & now works 12 1/2 hr midnights...no fun. It seriously has complicated my brain with confusing nonsense like who will watch the kids what days, when they get dropped off at the sitters, who picks them up, when he works, when he must sleep, when he has school, when I work, when Chris goes to preschool....oh my. I feel like I'll never make sense of it!! I feel much better gettin that off my chest :D

I got my Walmart "myshare" bonus which we get every 4 months, it's very nice. Probably the only positive of Walmart. hehe. So now I can just spend more money on bills! 

Oh but I did score a George Foreman grill, oh yeahhh.

Isn't it a beauty? This was my bonus money splurge. I've been wanting one since forever & they were on sale at wally-world so why not??

Chris loves preschool! I'm a bad mommy & messed up the school ending time on his 3rd day so he was waiting 30 minutes past the end of school. Hey, cut me a break, I never take him or pick him up so it's a little hard to remember! :-/ I also forgot that show & tell was last Friday. :-X Yeah....

Here's hoping to a better week! 2 more days of work & then my 8 straight days are over (for a week) & I get to have a couple days off. Score.

Even though I'm writing this on Sat. night, I'm gonna hook it up with the Sunday hop. 

Hello visitors, browse around my blog as long as ya like & I hope you'll follow :)

{While you're here, check out my current giveaway for the Stride Everyday Panties!}

CSN stores review coming soon....

If you haven't ever visited CSN stores, you must!

200+ stores within a store is more like it! There is a store for anything you may desire! Discounted prices, some have free shipping, I'm hooked! 

I keep dreaming of this amazing modern bedding when I fall into my own bed at night. Beautiful, luxurious prints for any budget & any taste.

This one is just warm & chocolately....looks so cozy...

Yum.

Or this one.....

Wowwwww. I love green/brown so this is just amazing.

Visit CSN stores to find pretty much anything you desire for an awesome price!!

Review & Giveaway coming soon....

Stride Everyday Panty Review & Giveaway!

I was contacted by Stride Everyday to review their amazing new panties! Panties with technology, I say. Genius! When I first got them in the mail, I couldn't wait to give them a try. I don't have urinary incontinence but I still wanted to review them, they are high quality undies! The outer feel of the sport bikini reminds me of a swimsuit bottom, but not as thick. Now I won't go into the nitty gritty details about what it does for you, not sure you wanna hear it from me so...Check out the facts...

Here is the story behind the panties, created by Wendy Spencer!

WENDY’S STORY
One thing to know about me – I love a good challenge! When a friend dared me to run a marathon, I thought, “Sure – why not?” So I ran that marathon, and then did another, and then another. I continued running through my pregnancy, enjoying the opportunity to stay active. But after the birth of my son, like many other women out there, I was shocked to realize I had stress incontinence. The “embarrassing” problem of always worrying about what might happen if you laugh too hard, or sneeze unexpectedly. So I looked for a solution to the issue, but was disappointed that there were really no good options out there. Sure, you could use pantiliners, but they’re pretty uncomfortable and are definitely not an environmentally friendly option. There was no way I was going to use pantiliners every day! I wanted something functional, that would still allow me to feel sexy. And so the STRIDE solution was born. We’ve created sexy, practical, and panties that help women deal with the issue of light leaks – without anything being disposable. So let’s take light leaks out of the closet and toss the embarrassment to the curb. After all, this happens to 1 in 3 women from various ages and ethnicities!!
I always questioned why feminine products were disposable...how is that a good thing? The more women I talk to about coughing, jumping, laughing, sneezing, everyone has a story and everyone has a “leak”, so why are we keeping this issue a secret? Women have been told to hide this forever, but I think it’s time to talk about it and embrace that part of being a woman. Let’s shake up this category, let’s laugh about being a woman and all the little issues we deal with on a daily basis. Let’s embrace being part of a woman and celebrate our stories
So, the search began. Wendy and her team worked with a strong R&D partner to design the patented fabric technology and permanently built it into the panty’s gusset. The patented technology is revolutionary in its super-absorbent ability to wick moisture from the top layer, absorb and deodorize…so you and your clothes stay dry.

There are 4 different styles to choose from, I chose the Sport bikini to review & I LOVE it.

My Thoughts....

These are definitely true to their size, fits me like a glove.

They are comfortable & breathable.

Worth the price.

A very unique idea!

(You should) BUY it:

Head on over to StrideEveryday & grab yourself a pair of these panties- ranging from $14.99 to $24.99 a pair. 

Special promo code for my readers- Use "MAMA23" to get 30% off orders that are $35 or more.

WIN it! 

 Stride is so generous, they are willing to give away a pair of these fabulous undies to one of my Everyday Mama followers!

 To enter:

You must be a public GFC follower to participate in this & any giveaway (private doesn't count)

Please remember, if it says that an entry is worth +2, you must leave a separate comment for each.

Winner will be chosen with random.org randomizer on Sept 30th at 10pm. 

US readers only, 18+. Please make sure I can easily locate your email or leave in comment. 

Mandatory Entry: (must be completed for others to count): Head over to Stride & return, telling me in a comment which panty you would choose if you won!

• Be a GFC follower of Everyday Mama (+1 entry)
• "Like" Everyday Mama on Facebook (+2 entries)
• Follow Everyday Mama on Twitter (+1 entry)
• Blog about this giveaway & link me to it (+3 entries)
• Vote for me on Top Mommy Blogs, located on sidebar (+1 entry daily)
•  Send a friend over to follow me via GFC, make sure they mention that you sent them! (+3 entries per friend)
• Tweet about this giveaway (+1 entry daily) 

Use this tweet: #Win a pair of Stride Everyday panties @Luvr4ula, ends 9/30! http://tiny.cc/hf5ft

Good luck!!

Truth #6- Something I hope I never have to do....

Something I Hope I Never Have to Do

 (30 days of truth, hosted by the Young Retiree)

Doesn't even take me 10 seconds to think of what I would say I hope I never have to do. I hope that never in my life, I have to bury one of my beautiful children. I just cannot imagine how difficult & absolutely heartbreaking that must be to endure.

 

I watch the news, read stories, surf the web & hear horrendous stories of parents losing their children to some of the most terrible things. It kills me. I cry every time as I'm sure millions of other mothers do. No one wants to ever even imagine that they themselves could lose their own child. It's unfathomable to me, impossible. Although I know it's not....in my own mind, I pray to God that it is.

I do still believe that every little thing happens for a reason....but finding that reason when an innocent child is killed....is so very hard. I don't think that my mortal mind can do so. Only Jesus can answer why.

 

I hurt for every mother who has had to lose their baby...I don't know what I would do if I had to go through it. Numbness & pain is all I can think.

This I hope to NEVER do.

Truth #5- Something I hope to do in my lifetime.

Something I hope to do in my lifetime.

(30 days of truth, hosted by The Young Retiree)

This one is pretty tough because I feel like I haven't accomplished very much in my life compared to what I WANT to accomplish. I started out married life & children pretty early & didn't get to experience alot of things that most do.

I'm going to cheat & name a few things I'd really love to do....not sure if I'll be able to but I'm gonna try at least.

1. Be the best Christian I can be & prepare myself for heaven! This is something my immature mind didn't really understand even a couple years ago, even after I was baptized at 18. I'm glad that I'm maturing more now & wanna be the best I can be. I am working on it more now than ever, dropping bad habits one at a time.

2. I want to go to school for SOMEthing....like I've mentioned before, I'm very very indecisive. I change my mind monthly as to what I'd like to go to school for. I just never seem to be able to find my perfect fit. The one thing I'd love to do is almost unreachable, especially at this point in my life. Maybe one day.

3. I want to speak Spanish fluently. This has always been a random dream of mine, to be able to speak a foreign language as if it were my native language. I just think it's a great skill to have.

Of course I could name mannnnnyy other things I'd love to be able to do, these are just a few that I think about the most. And these are purely ME, not in relation to my husband or kids. After all, this challenge is about ME and my truths, not what I want to see them accomplish. Selfish? Naw, this is my blog after all. Haha!

 I will be participating in a Walk For Life for a local organization on Oct 9th. I'm looking for all the sponsors I can get to put towards this organization. It provides women with education about abortion, post-abortion counseling, free pregnancy tests & more. You don't have to live near me to contribute. Please contact me if you'd like to donate to this wonderful pro-life cause.

(Day 3) Something I must forgive myself for....

*Something I have to forgive myself for*

(30 days of truth- hosted by The Young Retiree)

I just found this 30 Days Of Truth meme from The Young Retiree last night while browsing blogs & wanted to jump on. It's day 3 today but if you wanna participate, jump in whenever you like. She has amazing prompts to start with daily.

My mama raised me to think clearly & thoroughly before making important decisions that could change my life. I think I have taken it to the extreme by being overly cautious & therefore becoming pretty much the most indecisive person you'll probably ever meet. I eat the same things at restaurants because I don't wanna have to make a decision & have it be the wrong one. I compare prices so much on makeup & face cream that it takes me 20 minutes to decide & then end up changing my mind again & putting it back on the shelf before walking out. 

Maybe this stems from never being "rich" or with lots of excess money. Ever since I've been married, we've struggled with money. It's a struggle I've grown to accept because I fear it may never change. Better to accept it & live with it than to be surprised day after day, year after year that it hasn't changed. I can only hope.

Back to my point...even after all the things my mom taught me, I was still so very stupid as a teenager. I hurt my mom. Alot. It's the worst years I can remember & I try to just forget. I have asked God for forgiveness so I know that I'm forgiven but it still hurts me to know just how much I disappointed her.

She raised me from age 10 on as a single mom & I put so much stress on her. At 14, I was getting into so much trouble (with boys especially) that I was sent away to live with a friend 2 hours away. It was only going to be a month but turned into a year, mainly because I just wanted to stay & had a best friend to hang out with. Of course, I missed my mom like crazy but was too stupid to admit it. It was for the best that I was sent there.

I went through a "goth" phase, if you could call it that. Dressed in black, painted my  nails black, cutting myself, writing depressing poetry, anorexia...you name it. I don't know why I tortured myself so much. I'll never figure that out. My mom never understood but always loved me & was there to hear me when I cried to her.

We ended up moving to the area where my friend lived who I was staying with & right across the street is where I met my husband...we were 15 & still so stupid. Got into trouble & did things I know I shouldn't have but I didn't care. I didn't care what my mom had to say, she didn't know anything, right?? Wrong.

The day that I will never forget is 2 months after my 18th birthday, I told her I was pregnant. It was the hardest thing I've ever had to tell my mom. I knew it would break her heart. I know that getting pregnant is nothing compared to some of the things that could have happened to me but everyone knows that your life changes so drastically when a baby comes. I wasn't ready, we weren't ready....but we had been so stupid.

Sometimes I wonder what would have been different had we waited & had children later. I love them both so dearly & would never ever have considered abortion or adoption. What would our lives be like? Would my husband & I have gotten married? Would we still be together? Would I have gone to college? Would I be working at Walmart? Answers I will never know.

I must forgive myself for hurting her. I know I am forgiven but forgetting it is hard. <3 you Mom & I hope that you know I'm sorry that I hurt you. I'm not so stupid anymore.

Almay One-Coat Nourishing Mascara Review

Finally a mascara that actually does what it promises!

This stuff is fantastic. No lie.

I have the hardest time finding GOOD mascara & by that I mean the kind that doesn't clump, isn't dry as soon as you open it, goes on easily & is a little bit nourishing too! This product packs it all in one little tube.

The last mascara I bought was a joke. Let's just say I won't be purchasing from Rimmel ever again. Nevertheless, I used it for at least 5 months & finally it got so terrible (if that was even possible), I had to buy a new tube & happily toss this old one.

I searched the makeup aisle at Walmart looking for something affordable (I'm sorry but I don't pay $10 for mascara!) & hoping for something decent.

What I found was my new fav mascara, I don't think I will be buying anything else!

The brush is thick but small: Perfect!

There is a perfect amount of mascara on the brush & it glides on like butter. 

Not a single clump. NONE.

It is the best mascara I've found to coat the lower lashes, they look great!

You really do only need one coat but I still apply two to my top lashes because it's habit.

I'm in love.

BUY IT:

Sells for around $6 at Walmart.

Horizon Organic Milk Boxes Review

I was given a chance to review Horizon Organic Milk Boxes (like the on-the-go ones) by BzzAgent & I have to say...

I give it a BIG thumbs up!!

I've always been in favor of organic milk & eggs because of the hormones that are in regular products. Come on, there's proof in the puddin' people. However, I have a hard time affording these items.

Horizon isn't terribly priced but obviously higher than a plain ol' gallon of milk.

The coolest thing I liked about the milk boxes is that they are shelf stable so they don't even have to be refrigerated! I put them in there anyway but hey, road trips?? Perfect!

They come in 3 different flavors- vanilla, chocolate & strawberry! We sampled chocolate & strawberry & the boys LOVED them!! In face, since there are only 3 boxes in a pack, they fought over the last one!

Horizon was founded in 1991 & was the very first company to supply ORGANIC milk nationally! Now that's cool.

BUY IT:

They retail for apx $3.89 (at my local Walmart) for a 3 pack

DISCOUNT!!

The first person to comment on this post that they LOVE organic milk & would love some awesome coupons,  I will send my stockpile of coupons to you! Pretty sure I have 4 of them, each $1.50 off! 

Or if a couple people reply, I guess I will split them up to be fair :)

My Opinion

They are slightly expensive for me to buy regularly & I find it a better deal just to buy a carton of their milk instead.

They have a great tasting milk that children LOVE. (mine sure did!)

Organic is always better!

BzzAgent provided me with the coupons to try out this review. I was not paid to write this review or influenced in any way, it is completely honest. 

On a side note, my oldest lil guy is starting preschool tomorrow :) I'm so nervous but excited for him. I'm not sure why I'm even nervous, he's used to being away from me because of work & he's used to other kids at daycare....so I know he'll be fine. I just hope he behaves & makes some new friends.

I'm also super sad because I won't even be able to drop him off. I have to work instead...stupid job. I <3 you baby boy big boy, I know you'll do fine but it doesn't keep a mama from worryin her little heart out! What will I do when it's Kindergarten time??

Wow, it's September!

Guess I've been taking a little blog vacation. I'm a little bummed lately, just nothing exciting to talk about...blahh kind of thing. But I'll get over it!

I'm excited for the fall weather coming, I just hope that we actually have a "autumn" this year, we usually seem to have about a week of nice pretty fall weather & then BAM, freezing cold weather. So unfair! I have several things on my to-do list for fall this year that I haven't done previous years...

1. Visit Whitehouse Fruit Farm for their fall festitivites! Everyone around here goes & I've never been, lots of cute things for the kids to do. They also have the best donuts, like ever.

2. Our new-ish local corn maze that's about 5 minutes from my house. I don't know when they started this but I just noticed it last year & never went. So I'm really really hoping to head there this year! They have 2 different mazes, one is for younger kids & the other apparently takes up to an hour to get through?? I mean, check this thing out!

Do you see how it says 'Safari' in the middle? Awesome!

3. I wanna buy some FALL decorations! My house is so poorly decorated, it's kinda pathetic. Like seriously, the only rooms in the house that have ANYthing on the walls is basically the kids rooms....I just never have the extra moolah to fork over for decor, more worried about food on the table, know what I mean?? Walmart JUST put out their fall decor today as I stood in my pharmacy cubicle right across the aisle watching them, looks so cute & festive!

Yay for fall!! Who else is excited???

I have another giveaway coming up soon so STAY TUNED!