I’d say I need a vacation if my kid weren’t such a trip

Being a stay-at-home mommy to a 3 year old, while rewarding, is more challenging than anything else.  Luckily for me I’ve always had a lot of patience.  Or at least I thought I did, until Alivia turned 3 and started to prove me wrong.  And while there are days I’d like to curl up in a ball, suck my thumb, and cry myself to sleep, most days I try to see the humor in things.  I try to step out of my body as if I were an outsider watching us on TV.  I try to imagine the genre we’d fit it into on each particular day.  For instance, one day on my way upstairs to see what Alivia was doing, I found Vaseline all over her face, neck, clothes and, yep, in her hair.  It was awesome having to scurry to clean her up as we had plans to go out.  Yes, I’m being facetious.  On that day, I’d say we were a comedy; the two of us!  See, I can be easy going.  While “the episode” was rather inconvenient, who wouldn’t have laughed at the sight of their toddler all greased up with that “deer in headlights” expression on their face while mommy repeatedly asked “why would you do this?” as if it could be rationalized.  Seriously?  Of course, I’d take those days over serious ones any time.  In fact, days like those are a break from what seems to be the norm these days.  The norm being Livi doing something she’s not supposed to and mommy having to put her in her room.  If you read, Crying, and whining, and tantrums, oh my, I’m sure you know exactly what I’m talking about.  It’s been a struggle for the both of us lately. 

Crying, and Whining, and Tantrums, Oh My!

It donned on me, while I rinsed off dishes to put in the dishwasher, that I just asked my 3 year old if she was going to cry every day for the rest of her life as if she were capable of answering it honestly.  Or as if it were a fair question to ask a child that age.  

At the time, I'm sure she thought she was answering honestly as she mumbled what I thought sounded like a "yes", but I can't be sure since it got lost in the high pitch sounds of what resembled a puppy cry.  This is what it sounded like when Alivia started to whine.  Between her crying, and whining for what seemed to be the one millionth time that day, I thought I was going to lose it!  Mind you, I haven't been feeling well.  I have been fighting a sinus infection that spread through the house like a forest fire and even still, I mustered up the patience to make a silly game out of asking her not to run around the kitchen island near the hot stove.  I would physically redirect her every time she would get near the stove, turning her around and pushing her off towards her dad who would do the same thing as she approached the other side of the island.  All of a sudden, before the hubby and I knew it, she was crying and acting like her moody little self.  You can imagine my patience, at this time, was dwindling, and quickly.  I still demonstrated control when I demanded she go to her room in a relaxed and eager voice as if I were asking a waiter for the dessert menu. I can't deny that I was eager for her to go to her room so that I could enjoy some peace and quiet.  I don't know what I was thinking.  No sooner than we closed the door to her bedroom was she in full out tantrum mode.  Screaming, kicking, crying, whining, etc.! 

Easy peasy cookie cupcakes!

About 2 months ago, I made a promise to myself I would start cooking more often.  Initially, I had intended to make more dinners.  I never imagined, in a million years, I would have the time or courage to start baking as well!  Over the past few weeks, I've baked a number of yummy desserts including Banana Coconut Muffins, Peppermint Biscotti with Chocolate Drizzle, Coffee Cake Cheesecake (post still to come) and, most recently, Cookie Cupcakes! 

Do you miss them being babies & my July sponsor giveaway!

When Alivia was born, I asked my sister who has two children (one was 15 at the time and other was 13) if she missed them being babies.  She answered without hesitance “no”.  In disbelief I asked “really”?  I was both surprised and enlightened by her answer!  After briefly explaining the things she was enjoying about my niece and nephew’s current ages, she went on to say that she thought of childhood as a temporary place for the child to become their true selves, the adult person they always had been just hadn’t grown into yet.  I had to think about it for a few minutes to really grasp the concept, but I was intrigued by the idea.  Could it possibly be true? 

Vacationing in Cape Cod, MA

It’s nice to be home from vacation but only for dependable and fast internet access so I am able to do what I love: BLOG.  Otherwise, I rather be basking in the sun under a clear blue sky with nothing to worry about other than sun protection.  Alivia and I had such a wonderful 3 day vacation in West Yarmouth.  We couldn’t have asked for better weather.  And unlike previous years, the ocean was exceptionally warm and inviting.  Even better than warm ocean water and sunshine was Alivia accomplishing some HUGE milestones!  After struggling with her for 2 Summers, I finally got her to walk on the sand!  It took some serious persistence and a thick skin when she began to melt down, but I stayed strong and was relieved to have it pay off!  Of course, I knew I wouldn’t be able to get her to do it  with bare feet so I came prepared with water shoes.  And when her shoes filled up with sand, I was pleasantly surprised it only took a little distraction and some mild coaxing to keep her from obsessing over it.  In no time at all my baby was playing in the sand comfortably!  She even, for the first time, played in the ocean water (something else I had been struggling with getting her to do)!  It was amazing watching her enjoy activities that once had her running for dry land, a shower, or my arms.  And if that’s not enough, on the very last day of our vacation, my sister handed her a water bottle and she drank out of it like a PRO!   What?!  It was as if the milestones kept being thrown at my baby but she continued to hit them right out of the park!  I was so proud of her!

The Candid Photograph

What’s the difference between an okay photograph and one that makes you want to keep looking at it for hours? 

In my experience, I’d have to say camera settings, proper exposure, focus, and perspective.  To me, the least important contributing factor is the subject.  When you can make even the most mundane look exciting, fresh, and appealing than you my friend have just crossed over from being a so so photographer to an exceptional one! 

Does your child respect their things?

Are you teaching your kids to respect their things?  I think it’s an important lesson to teach and one they should most definitely learn.  What got me to thinking about this topic?  Good question.  I was recently having  a conversation with another mom who happened to mention having to buy a new kindle for their tot.  When I asked why (assuming there was something wrong with the product), she shocked me with her answer.  She went on to say that her little one had thrown and stepped on it multiple times, brushing the statement off casually as if that’s what toddlers do.  My immediate thought was “really”?  You’ve got to be kidding me.  Am I on candid camera?  Where are the video cameras at?

Are images/graphics in blog posts that important?

When it comes to posts, what kind of images and/or graphics do you find most appealing?  What makes you want to share a post across your social networks?  Take a minute to think about it. For me, not only does the topic have to interest me but the images and/or graphics have to grab my attention!  There are many things that contribute to a great image/graphic including: subject, size, proportions, the inclusion of text (when appropriate), exposure, clarity, perspective, vibrance, and color palette.  I try to keep all of these things in mind when drafting my own posts.  Writing comes naturally to me and while photographs and graphic design may too, they still take me longer to prepare and finalize.  It's definitely worth it but let me tell you why.

Simple and Inexpensive Toys are Sometimes the Best Kind!

Some of the best toys are the ones that happen to be simple, the least inexpensive, and keep my little one entertained for hours.  Do you find this to be true?  

It seems like I'm always concerned with purchasing educational, highly rated and recommended, or consumer reviewed toys when it comes to my toddler.  And although a lot of these purchases end up being smart purchases in that my little one plays with them often, there are some that just sit in the toy box collecting dust leaving me questioning why. What's more is that most of the time these toys are among the most expensive purchases and I can't help to think  - what a waste.

Our Vacation in St. Petersburg, FL

Being that I just returned from my blog break, I am doing a lot of catching up.  Trying to sort through my emails has been such a time consuming task that I haven't been able to think about topics to blog about.  To me, it's not all that important anyway.  I much rather maintain my social relationships by responding to emails, visiting blogs, and returning the love with follow backs!  With that said, if you emailed me and still haven't received a response, you should expect to see something soon!

This Mama Needs a Week Off!

So here’s the deal!  Starting tomorrow, I’ll be taking a week off from blogging to spend some much needed time with family!  The hubby was able to get some time off and we have some exciting outings planned for the entire week!  I hope to have some wonderful pictures to share with you when I get back. 

Since I promised the family a blog free vacation, I just want to say “THANK YOU” for any comments you may leave while I’m away and I apologize in advance for not being able to respond to them personally.  And although I’m looking forward to this break, my bloggy site and all of you will be missed terribly!  As much as blogging can be hard work, time consuming, and a PIA (pain in the a#@) at times, I actually love doing it and I’m quite certain I’ll go through some blogging and social relations withdrawal!  Don’t worry about me though, I plan on checking my email at night.  The family has got to allow me a fix otherwise it’s just plain cruel!

Bull Ride? None for me thanks!

We went to a local carnival this past weekend and wouldn’t you know they had a bull ride!  It didn’t take long for it to get the ol’ hubby’s attention and before I knew it, he was holding on for dear life!  I’m so happy I had my camera with me (can’t believe I was actually debating on whether to bring it)!  The expressions I caught on camera were priceless!  While I was snapping away, his sister was timing him to see how long he could stay on!  It was a freaking riot!  Alivia watched with what could only have been confusion !  I don’t think she knew what to make of it!   Bull Ride? None for me thanks!  I sure had a heck of a time watching my husband on it though!  I even busted his chops a little when he fell off.  Accused him of having (how can I say this nicely) girl parts if you know what I’m saying!  Of course, who am I to talk?  I didn’t even have the courage to try!  It’s amazing how much of a wimp I’ve become in my old age!  If it were 1o years ago, I would have been riding that thing like there was no tomorrow!  Okay, okay, I have to give the hubby props!  Go baby!

Does your Child Stutter?

Over the last month I've noticed my little one, Alivia, stuttering quite a bit.  At first I didn't think anything of it, but as it started to worsen and become more frequent I grew concerned.  In order to establish whether she had control over it, I would remind her to take her time and think about what she wanted to say before she said it.  This seemed to help.  When I reminded her, she would pause for a good 5 - 10 seconds and then out her statement would come stutter free!  This eased my mind a bit.  Of course, being a first time parent, over protective, and a worry wart of sorts, I put a call into her Pediatrician anyway.

Intermittent Exotropia: Considering Surgery

It's been awhile since I blogged about Alivia's Intermittent Exotropia.  If you missed my last update, Back to Patching, feel free to catch up.  Additionally, I have a page dedicated to all of our Intermittent Exotropia updates (including resources) so if you haven't checked it out already, have at it! 

Nature Photography & Alvin and the Chipmunks

My little one, Alivia, has taken a liking to Alvin and the Chipmunks!  She is obsessed with their movies (they have 3 out)!  After she went to bed last night, and while I should have been drafting Wednesday’s post, I was entranced with Alvin and the Chipmunks the Squeakquel.  Just when I thought I was the only one, I looked over at the hubby to find him laughing his butt off when, yeah, he should have been doing something else as well (homework)!  It was a nice and much needed break for the both of us! 

Spot the Differences (a game for Friday)!

Take a look to the right of this post.  See anything different?  Yes, that poll is new!  Since I constantly wonder obsess about what topics interest my readers the most, I thought what better way to find out than a poll!  If you have time, I’d greatly appreciate your participation.  I’m very curious to see the results at the end of the week!  More importantly, I can’t wait to start publishing content that will appeal to you personally!

Now onto the fun stuff!  If you’re here for my Spot the Differences game, than you’re in luck!  Yep, I have another one for you today.  This time with 8 differences.  Think you’re up for the challenge?  All you have to do is click on the OPEN NEW WINDOW text below to view it at it’s original LARGER size!  Oh, and don’t forget to drop me a comment.  My favorite part is finding out how many you get!  If you get stumped, no worries.  Just click on the answer key.  No cheating though!  Good Luck!

Just images!

Okay, I’m going to be honest, sometimes (and only when I'm lost for words which let's face it isn't often if you know me well), I actually like Wordless Wednesday and will use it as an intermission (so to speak) between blog posts.  It's the only time I feel like I can get away with not having anything to say, share, or contribute!  I'm sure as a blogger, you can relate knowing the challenge of coming up with interesting content to post every day of the week.  So, being that I haven't taken advantage of a Wordless Wednesday in quite some time, I'm using this Thursday as my intermission.  Nothing to say really.  No points to make. Nothing exciting or new to share.  No tips or tutorials.  No freebies.  Just images.  Now that I can do!

FREE set of 5 digital Polaroids & Frames!

While the hubby was cleaning out the trunk of his car, he came across some old photos of when he was younger.  I couldn't wait to get my hands on them to be reminded of just how adorable he was.  As I was looking through them I was delighted to find some great Polaroids and bordered photographs in his collection.  They were distressed and discolored and I absolutely loved them!  I couldn't help myself, my brain immediately switched into art mode.  I chose my favorite Polaroids and bordered images and scanned them to my computer.  I opened them in Photoshop, made a few adjustments, and created digital templates.  I am so happy with how they turned out but even more excited to present this NEW set of Vintage Polaroids and Frames to all of you!  I hope you'll love them as much as I do!  Oh, and did I mention they are FREE?  That's right.  So go ahead and download the entire set!  All I ask in return is, if used on your website, credit with a link back to my site would be absolutely fabulous and much appreciated!

Am I a horrible person for finding beauty in Boston?

I was in Boston on Saturday for a hair appointment.  It's not often I get into the city so it's easy to forget how beautiful it can be especially on a warm and sunny Spring day!  For the first time since last year, I got to sport my open toe sandals and pretty pedicured toes!  It was a good day.  A much needed "ME" day and I looked forward to the next two hours I would have to relax in a chair and have someone make me pretty!  With that said, I walked the streets of Boston with a smile on my face.  That is of course, until I got to Boylston Street.

Wordless, who me?

Not completely wordless, but close. 

Looking over at my little one makes me think of how great it is to be a kid.  When all it takes are little things like a pink hat or animal print sneakers to make you smile, to make you happy, to make you love life!  There is no confusion, fuss, chaos, stress, worry, responsibility.  Just SIMPLICITY!  I wish it could always be like this for her.