unconcious mutterings...

Free association is described as a "psychonanalytic procedure in which a person is encouraged to give free rein to his or her thoughts and feelings, verbalizing whatever comes into the mind without monitoring its content." Over time, this technique is supposed to help bring forth repressed thoughts and feelings that the person can then work through to gain a better sense of self.

That's an admirable goal, but for the purposes of this excercise, we're just hoping to have a little fun with the technique. Each week I'll post ten words to which you can respond to with the first thing that comes to mind.

"Rules are, there are no rules." There are no right or wrong answers. Don't limit yourself to one word responses; just say everything that pops into your head.


I say ... and you think ... ?

Spit it out ::
Shadow ::
Database ::
Expression ::
Boss ::
Baby ::
Mystic ::
Kate ::
Boobies ::
Raid ::

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oh the class parties being planned...

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pirate gold chocolate coin controversy

if anyone has recieved the email being circulated regarding the tainted gold chocolate coins feel free to check out the following sites and stories...



of course my first verification is always snopes...i love love love snopes.com!!!

http://www.snopes.com/food/warnings/coins.asp

but i also found the following very informative story from webmd.com:


"Halloween Chocolate Coins Safe in U.S.
Sherwood Brands Says Pirate's Gold Chocolate Coin Recall Due to Melamine Only Affected Canada
By Miranda Hitti
WebMD Health News

Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MDOct. 31, 2008 -- If you've gotten an email warning you about Halloween candy -- and chocolate coins, in particular -- tainted with melamine, here's the truth about that rumor.

On Oct. 8, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency warned consumers in Canada not to eat, distribute, or sell certain packages of Sherwood Brands Pirate's Gold Milk Chocolate Coins in Canada because of melamine, a chemical that artificially makes milk appear to have more protein.

In China, melamine-tainted milk has been linked to the deaths of four babies and illness in tens of thousands of other children.

The Sherwood Brands chocolate coin warning only applies to Canada, and only to Sherwood Brands Pirate's Gold Milk Chocolate Coins sold in 840-gram containers containing 240 pieces per container with the UPC code 0 36077 11240 7 and the lot code 1928S1. Those chocolates were sold in Canadian Costco stores and various dollar and bulk stores, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

"This was an insolated situation in Canada only. These coins were not sold or shipped into the U.S. market," states a Sherwood Brands news release.

Sherwood Brands also notes that it "has not received any chocolate in the U.S. from China" since the melamine risk arose, and that all of its products shipped to Canada and the U.S. are tested for melamine before being shipped.

And if you've heard rumors about Cadbury's chocolate and melamine, know that Cadbury took several products off the market in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Australia in September, but it says Cadbury's chocolate is safe in the U.S. and other countries.

The FDA hasn't warned about melamine risk in any Halloween candies. But the FDA has advised consumers not to eat these other products because of possible melamine contamination:

Koala's March Crème filled Cookies
YILI Brand Sour Milk Drink
YILI Brand Pure Milk Drink
Blue Cat Flavored Drinks
White Rabbit Candies
Mr. Brown Mandehling Blend Instant Coffee (3-in-1)
Mr. Brown Arabica Instant Coffee (3-in-1)
Mr. Brown Blue Mountain Blend Instant Coffee (3-in-1)
Mr. Brown Caramel Macchiato Instant Coffee (3-in-1)
Mr. Brown French Vanilla Instant Coffee (3-in-1)
Mr. Brown Mandheling Blend instant Coffee (2-in-1)
Mr. Brown Milk Tea (3-in-1)
Infant formula manufactured in China"

unconscious mutterings

say what you think...

Free association is described as a "psychonanalytic procedure in which a person is encouraged to give free rein to his or her thoughts and feelings, verbalizing whatever comes into the mind without monitoring its content." Over time, this technique is supposed to help bring forth repressed thoughts and feelings that the person can then work through to gain a better sense of self.

That's an admirable goal, but for the purposes of this excercise, we're just hoping to have a little fun with the technique. Each week I'll post ten words to which you can respond to with the first thing that comes to mind.

"Rules are, there are no rules." There are no right or wrong answers. Don't limit yourself to one word responses; just say everything that pops into your head

1. In love ::


2. Be my guest ::


3. Number one ::


4. Swallowed whole ::


5. 50 percent ::


6. Made in ::


7. Supplement ::


8. Right for ::


9. Endless ::


10. Ceramic ::

green skin...

With the change of seasons it has become quite apparent I need to begin researching skincare products...AGAIN!!! Every season is literally a new season with my skin. At thrity two years of age one would think I would be past the point of "breaking-out" HA! No such luck. After consulting with a few girlfriends I recently learned this phenomenon is rapidly spreading. I have more blemishes now then I ever did in highschool.

After many years of trying every product on the market, I recently realized I have "sensitive skin," all these years i thought I was "oily." With this new found knowledge I decided to look for more natural products, if my skin is sensitive why the heck would I want to put harsh chemicals on it.

Check out the following four products I tested and rated, though some were not right for me the natural, organic, or plant based formulas are worth checking out and may I add, many of the products are pocketbook friendly ;).



Aubrey Organics was my first test run, I love these products! Not only do they have an awesome mission statement but they actually practice it, creating a 100% natural, organic product line. The clean is a fresh feeling with no residue. Check them out at Aubrey Organics. Aubrey Organics is also a "BDIH - Certified Natural Cosmetics" and "Leaping Bunny – Cruelty Free" certified company, which I totally love

Yet summer came, as did the skin change so off to the next product.



Arbonne Skincare, this product line was introduced to me a few months ago by a girlfriend who has recently become a consultant. I checked out the website, really liked the information given to me regarding the company's mission on being "botanically based" and the rest is skincare testing history. I like their facial cleanser line, however what I can not do with out is the anti-aging line for the eyes, did I forget to mention that along with the blemishes I am now beginning to get wrinkles!?!?! Arbonne creams, lotions and potions are unlike any I have tried at this point. I can apply makeup after applying the creams and I do not look like a raccoon by dinner. Not only are they light, they come in pump style containers that dispense precise amounts and do not allow air to degrade the product before it can be used up. Venture over to Arbonne to see what's new.



Although my basic skincare needs change often, the one thing I am always looking for is a good spot blemish fighter, and I can say, hands down the Burts Bees Blemish Stick is unreal!!! Burts Bees is a company anyone can be proud to use. The company's beliefs are based on nature, family, community and sustainabilty. What more can you ask for from a world known bodycare line? The entire line is HOT and planet friendly!!!



Now, drum roll please, for the TOP skincare line I am currently using...Oeco. A few weeks back Posh Mama ran a giveaway for a new acne skincare line based on organic products as well as synthetic ingredients. Now, as you have seen I have tried them ALL, from clearisil to proactive with no great results. I began using this product the week before my "cycle" so, as many are aware, the WORST skincare time of the month. No worries, this product went right to work. Wash your face in the morning and evening with the wash, use the acne treatment in the morning and the lotion before bed and I was amazed to see how quickly the spots went away. Plus the feel and scent are truly unlike any other product I have used. Check out Oeco's philosophy and give them a try for yourself.

Skincare is subjective and always changing so take a chance on some new products, you never know what you may find. Remember to look for organic, natural, plant based products to be friendlier to your skin and our earth. You really don't have to crack your piggy bank to have beautiful, healthy skin.

Have a fabulous week!!!

take out the take-out...

Vacation time is upon us!!! The packing, the reservations, the bank account being depleted...oh joy!

This week I thought it would be a fabulous idea to share some ideas on eating healthy and inexpensively while on the road.

Most of the time while vacationing with the family we tend to hit the drive thru for a quick "cheap" fill. However you can save more money while treating you family to healthier options by finding local fare to nosh on.

No matter where your holiday takes you, be it Bali or Baltimore, there are supermarkets. The best option for healthy eating is to stay in a place that includes a kitchen-ette, giving you the option of purchasing organic foods and making your own meals. Although it maybe more of "everyday" life than a vaction for mama and daddy, you know what your babies are eating.

An even better option as far as snacks are concerned, is to hit a local farmers market. Every region is known for a specific speciality. Jersey tomatoes, California avocados, etc. Not only do you get to eat fresh foods, you have the awesome opportunity to expose your kids to actual local customs. Many markets sell produce from local, small town farmers resulting in less expensive fruits and veggies and food containing little to no pesticides.

Though purchasing meals to make and fresh produce requires alot more work than snatching a bite through the drive thu, you will be saving money, feeding your family healthier meals and even doing a small part to be earth friendly by bypassing untold amounts of paper and plastic packaging waste.

Have a fabulous week!!!

spend a little...save the world!!!

In keeping with Suzi's awesome freecycle story theme, I thought this week would be a fabulous time to toss tips regarding recycling perfectly good items.

Every person, whether they are a mama or not, understands how quickly we out grow or simply become tired of items in todays "throw away society." This is especially true when it comes to childrens toys, clothes and even the decor in our homes.

Being a mama of four myself I stored items for the longest time, hoping to reuse them or give them to friends. However, being a mama of four has also taught me that I need to watch my pennies. With this new found knowledge I began checking out ways to help others find awesome, barely used items for an extremely reasonable price and in return I made a little money to put toward those new items my babies were growing into. The fabulous thing about the internet is that no matter what end of the spectrum you are on, the tosser or the catcher, there are many places you can check out to find a bargin or to make a little extra cash and recycle something rather than add to our already overflowing landfills with items that are still be produced...thus the adage "One persons trash is another person's treasure."

A few good sites to check out are ebay, craigslist, and as Suzi mentioned...freecycle. Click the links to read the particulars regarding buying and selling with these options, but i have a few fabulous tips to help you be successful at recycling awesome finds.

Tips for sellers to get the job done quickly:

* Be honest! If an item has a scratch put that in the ad, you will save yourself alot of time if you list any and all imperfections, how old the item is, how long it was used, the original selling price, etc. The more information the better.

* Take lots of picture. Details, details, details ladies.

* Make the shipping cost clear. Another time saver, many people looking for a deal will add the cost of shipping into the overall price of an item. For large or bulky items consider having the buyer pick them up, it may take longer to find a buyer but you wont have to charge crazy prices for shipping or look all over then world for and unusual size/ shaped box. ALSO when you meet someone, for eveyone's safety go with another person and meet in a public area, do you really want a stranger coming into your home where your babies are.

* Clean up!!! No one wants to spend their hard earned money on a bouncy seat with stains on it, now matter how great a deal it is!!!

Tips for buyers to snag a fab price:

* Search! Try all three of the sites recommended and feel free to recommend your own (I love to find a great deal!)

* Pick up. As with a seller, if you are looking for a new crib search in your local area first can you imagine what it would cost to ship something like that across the country. IMPORTANT - make sure you go with another person and meet in a public area, safety first ladies

* Combine. If you see an item you love check out the sellers other options, chances are you can find a few things and save on the shipping by combining them into one package and many times if you are purchasing quanity the seller will offer an incentive discount.

Now if you are a saver...grab your digital camera and hit the basement my friend!!! You never know what treasures you may be hoarding. For the buyers out there, just remember, anything you can buy second hand instead of brand new is helping save our enviroment by keeping it our of the landfill and cutting production of more "junk." What is the shelf life of one of those plastic jungle gyms anyway?

Don't forget all it takes is one small change to save the planet!!!

Have a fabulous week!!!

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water conservation...

The heat of the summer is already upon us and luckily for the east coast the weather has been quite mild, however we are getting forcasts for heat and humidty in the very near future.

Water is an extremely funny thing. During the hot summers months many places are drought prone with their rivers, lakes and reservoirs drying up and are warned to conserve their water usage, but even in areas that are flood prone, as has been widely in the news recently, though these areas are now being inundated with water they are also warned to conserve their fresh water due to the contamination from the overflow of spillways and sewers. I thought this week would be a fabulous time to throw out some hot little tips for using water wisely...and maybe we can save a little money for our gas tanks.

First tip - lawn waterings, we spend so much money keeping our little patch of heaven lush and green it is unthinkable to have it turn brown and dusty, if you cruise across the grass and leave footprints this is a good sign you really need to plump up those blades with a good soaking water, not just a quick spray with the hose but a nice sprinkler visit for a least thirty minutes per area. The best time to water is actually in the evenings after the sun has gone down, mornings are a good choice also, but when the sun gets hot the water can be evaporated so try to go with evenings when the cool down and dew can work with you.

Tip two - Although it seems faster and easier to spray off your patios and walkways with the garden hose opt instead for a push broom, it takes a little more work but think of the water you will save and the fabulous work out you will receive in return.

Tip three - Along with the grass, check with your local nursery or online to find the best plants for your area, whether you have droughts or an abundance of water if you choose native plants they tend to fare better and require less maintenance.

Tip four - This tip may seem like common sense to most people, yet in my house I feel myself repeating it almost every morning to my darling husband...only run you dishawasher or clothes washer when they are totally full and if you have a water-saver cycle, use it. Don't forget to re-adjust the water level with every load to match the size of the actual load AND many of the newer dishwashers do not require you to pre-rinse dishes before you pop then into the washer.

Tip five - If you or you husband can do it fabulous, otherwise enlist the help of a plumber to regularly check your toilets, faucets, and pipes for leaks, and if you find one have it fixed as soon as possible.

Tip six - Check into water-saving shower heads, toilets and faucet aerators which can also help cut your water usage. Our local water company advertises that they will actually send you a shower head for free or a low price if you can not afford to buy a new one.

Tip seven - Though many newer toilets are low-flow, if you have an older one look into placing something inside the tank to cut down on the amount of water that needs to be replaced with each flush. You can use almost anything, a brick sealed in a plastic bag works well, however as long as it does not float you are cool.

Tip eight - such a no brainer, yet again between four kids and my husband i hear these words crossing my lips at least 5 times a day..."Turn OFF the tap while brushing your teeth!"

Well I am off to shut the tap off while I brush my teeth, remember all it takes it one small change to make a big difference!

Have a fabuolus week!!!

unconcious mutterings

Free association is described as a "psychonanalytic procedure in which a person is encouraged to give free rein to his or her thoughts and feelings, verbalizing whatever comes into the mind without monitoring its content." Over time, this technique is supposed to help bring forth repressed thoughts and feelings that the person can then work through to gain a better sense of self.

That's an admirable goal, but for the purposes of this excercise, we're just hoping to have a little fun with the technique. Each week I'll post ten words to which you can respond to with the first thing that comes to mind.

"Rules are, there are no rules." There are no right or wrong answers. Don't limit yourself to one word responses; just say everything that pops into your head.

1. Intimidated ::


2. Brush ::


3. Masquerade ::


4. Procedure ::


5. Tattoos ::


6. Square ::


7. Tuck ::


8. Boyfriend ::


9. Badass ::


10. Thousand ::

too beautiful to not read...

She jumped up as soon as she saw the surgeon come out of the operating room. She said: 'How is my little boy? Is he going to be all right? When can I see him?'
The surgeon said, 'I'm sorry. We did all we could, but your boy didn't make it.'

Sally said, 'Why do little children get cancer? Doesn't God care any more? Where were you, God, when my son needed you?'

The surgeon asked, 'Would you like some time alone with your son? One of the nurses will be out in a few minutes, before he's transported to the university.'

Sally asked the nurse to stay with her while she said good bye to son. She ran her fingers lovingly through his thick red curly hair. 'Would you like a lock of his hair?' the nurse asked. Sally nodded yes. The nurse cut a lock of the boy's hair, put it in a plastic bag and handed it to Sally.

The mother said, 'It was Jimmy's idea to donate his body to the University for Study. He said it might help somebody else. 'I said no at first, but Jimmy said, 'Mom, I won't be using it after I die. Maybe it will help some other little boy spend one more day with his Mom.' She went on, 'My Jimmy had a heart of gold. Always thinking of someone else. Always wanting to help others if he could.'

Sally walked out of Children's Mercy Hospital for the last time, after spending most of the last six months there. She put the bag with Jimmy's belongings on the seat beside her in the car.

The drive home was difficult. It was even harder to enter the empty house. She carried Jimmy's belongings, and the plastic bag with the lock of his hair to her son's room.

She started placing the model cars and other personal things back in his room exactly where he had always kept them. She lay down across his bed and, hugging his pillow, cried herself to sleep.

It was around midnight when Sally awoke. Lying beside her on the bed was a folded letter. The letter said :

'Dear Mom,

I know you're going to miss me; but don't think that I will ever forget you, or stop loving you, just 'cause I'm not around to say 'I Love You'. I will always love you, Mom, even more with each day. Someday we will see each other again. Until then, if you want to adopt a little boy so you won't be so lonely, that's okay with me. He can have my room and old stuff to play with. But, if you decide to get a girl instead, she probably wouldn't like the same things us boys do. You'll have to buy her dolls and stuff girls like, you know.
Don't be sad thinking about me. This really is a neat place. Grandma and Grandpa met me as soon as I got here and showed me around some, but it will take a long time to see everything. The angels are so cool. I love to watch them fly. And, you know what? Jesus doesn't look like any of his pictures. Yet, when I saw Him, I knew it was Him. Jesus himself took me to see GOD! And guess what, Mom? I got to sit on God's knee and talk to Him, like I was somebody important. That's when I told Him that I wanted to write you a letter, to tell you good bye and everything. But I already knew that wasn't allowed. Well, you know what Mom? God handed me some paper and His own personal pen to write you this letter I think Gabriel is the name of the angel who is going to drop this letter off to you. God said for me to give you the answer to one of the questions you asked Him where was He when I needed him?' 'God said He was in the same place with me, as when His son Jesus was on the cross. He was right there, as He always is with all His children.

Oh, by the way, Mom, no one else can see what I've written except you. To everyone else this is just a blank piece of paper. Isn't that cool? I have to give God His pen back now He needs it to write some more names in the Book of Life. To night I get to sit at the table with Jesus for supper. I'm sure the food will be great.

Oh, I almost forgot to tell you. I don't hurt anymore the cancer is all gone. I'm glad because I couldn't stand that pain anymore and God couldn't stand to see me hurt so much, either. That's when He sent The Angel of Mercy to come get me. The Angel said I was a Special Delivery! How about that?

Signed with Love from God, Jesus & Me.

clean me!!!

Wash your hands!!! How many times have you told your kids that? From the time my kids wake up in the morning until they go to bed at night i am constantly reminding them to sanitize themselves. Why is it so hard to remember to do so after using the potty for a three year old?!?!

Well for starters the faucet is impossible for such little fingers to manuver. To remedy this prediciment I have started looking into hand sanitizers, you know, the waterless kind that you simply squirt on and rub in. Though not a thorough cleansing it does the job until I can start the dryer and make the trek from the basement up to help them do it properly.

Sadly though I have seen the news reports of kids becoming deathly sick from ingesting commercial products due to the alcohol they are made from, and I also get concerned because if you are killing bacteria (a good thing right?) and humans are made from and actually thrive on bacteria what else are we actually killing?

I found a fabulous recipe for an all natural hand sanitizer that you can tweak to suit your own preferences, remember this is not to take the place of regular handwashing but it does help out in those situations where you need a quick clean.

What you need to get started:

100% pure aloe vera gel
witch hazel
tea tree oil
peppermint oil

Then to create it just:

Add 1 cup of pure aloe vera gel into a bowl

Slowly mix in 1-2 teaspoons of Witch Hazel. (you do not want the consistency of the gel to become too thin)

Add 3-4 drops of tea tree essential oil, and 3-4 drops of peppermint essential oil.

Slowly stir ingredients together.

(If you find the consistency to be too thin, add more aloe vera gel a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency)

Store in any desired container and use as you would any other hand sanitizer

*The ingredients in this mixture are safe and natural to use on your body. witch hazel, tea tree oil and peppermint all have antiseptic and astringent properties to them, which make them great for killing germs and also healing small cuts and wounds. The aloe vera gel will help soothe skin and keep skin from drying out


**Tips & warnings
You can add other scented essential oils to the mixture for a more pleasant scent such as lavender oil or rose oil and if you find the tea tree oil and peppermint oil scent to strong, use lesser amounts

Witch hazel and tea tree oil can cause excessive dryness in people with sensitive skin, if you find this occurring, limit the use of your sanitizer to a few times a day

I send my kids to school with a small container in their backpacks and keep pumps in each bathroom.

Stay fresh and have a fabulous week!!!

Unconscious Mutterings

Free association is described as a "psychonanalytic procedure in which a person is encouraged to give free rein to his or her thoughts and feelings, verbalizing whatever comes into the mind without monitoring its content." Over time, this technique is supposed to help bring forth repressed thoughts and feelings that the person can then work through to gain a better sense of self.

That's an admirable goal, but for the purposes of this excercise, we're just hoping to have a little fun with the technique. Each week I'll post ten words to which you can respond to with the first thing that comes to mind.

"Rules are, there are no rules." There are no right or wrong answers. Don't limit yourself to one word responses; just say everything that pops into your head.

1. Notification ::


2. Cheat ::


3. Top Ten ::


4. Draft ::


5. Unbelievable ::


6. Cheap ::


7. Spontaneous ::


8. Harass ::


9. Lipstick ::


10. Transpire ::

unconscious mutterings

fair trade clothing

A few weeks back I did an article on the importance of organic clothing, I should have mentioned the importance
"fair trade" plays in the garment industry. Many of the organic lines coincide with free trade but i never really understood what it was or it's importance until I started researching for my own boutique.

Fair Trade guarantees a minimum price for producers so they can earn a decent, living wage and break the cycle of exploitation and poverty. It has been defined by the four Fair Trade Organizations as "a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers, especially in the South. Fair Trade organizations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising, and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade."
~make trade fair

The four organizations involved are known by their initials as FINE:

Fairtrade Labelling Organisations International (FLO) whose main responsibility is to collect data and ensure the audit of all Fairtrade-labelled products from the producer to the sales floor.

International Federation for Alternative Trade (IFAT) is a global network of Fair Trade organizations that work to improve the livelihoods and wellbeing of the poor people in developing countries, and to change the unfair structures of international trade.

Network of European World shops (NEWS!) NEWS co-ordinates the co-operation between World Shops all over Western Europe.

and finally

European Fair Trade Association (EFTA) was established in 1987, and is an association of 12 Fair Trade importers in 9 European countries, they facilitate co-operation and co-ordination between their members in the areas of trading with suppliers in the south, advocacy and campaigns work, monitoring of fair trade and marketing fair trade products.

Now that I have covered the technicalities , I would love to tell you in plain speak why fair trade is important to all of us:

Fair price: farmers group receive a minimum price and an additional premium for certified organic products.


Fair labor conditions: workers enjoy freedom of association, safe working conditions, and living wages. Forced child labor is strictly prohibited!


Direct trade: importers purchase from Fair Trade groups as directly as possible, eliminating unnecessary middlemen and empowering farmers to develop the business capacity necessary to compete in the global marketplace.


Democratic and transparent organizations: Fair Trade farmers and farm workers decide democratically how to invest revenues.


Community development: Fair Trade farmers and workers invest earnings in social and business development projects like scholarships, quality improvement trainings, and organic certification.


Environmental sustainability: harmful chemicals and GMOs are strictly prohibited in favor of environmentally sustainable farming methods that protect farmers’ health and preserve valuable ecosystems for future generations

Check out the Fair Trade Association for some great information and check out Make Trade Fair and sign the petition that "represents the voices of millions of people around the world who are calling for decision makers to make trade fair."

Have a fabulous week!!!

i say...you think

Free association is described as a "psychonanalytic procedure in which a person is encouraged to give free rein to his or her thoughts and feelings, verbalizing whatever comes into the mind without monitoring its content." Over time, this technique is supposed to help bring forth repressed thoughts and feelings that the person can then work through to gain a better sense of self.

That's an admirable goal, but for the purposes of this excercise, we're just hoping to have a little fun with the technique. Each week I'll post ten words to which you can respond to with the first thing that comes to mind.

"Rules are, there are no rules." There are no right or wrong answers. Don't limit yourself to one word responses; just say everything that pops into your head.

1. Loneliness ::


2. Traffic ::


3. Chaos ::


4. Burp ::


5. 500 ::


6. Movie ::


7. Coma ::


8. Bark ::


9. Stare ::


10. Angelina ::

Unconscious Mutterings

WOW! Is it just me or did this school year just fly by?!?!? Posh baby two just finished her first year of pre-school and posh baby one finished the third grade with flying colors and the joyous sounds of, "Mom...there's nothing to do" now resonate in my brain.

What is a parent to do when trying to keep her charges occupied, out of trouble and enjoying their time? Two years ago we tried summer camps, however it was exhausting keeping up with the schedules comparable to the school year. Last summer we moved to the shore house and had a great time but still felt like we were lacking something. So this year we are planning a few activities around giving back to our community. Don't get me wrong, we are still going to have "lazy time" and beach time but this year we are having "awareness" time also.

As a matter of fact our little town of Yardley is hosted it's annual clean up of Lake Afton. This adorable little lake is the setting of perfect surburbia, in the winter anyone who is anyone can be caught ice skating there, and in the summer people sit at the outdoor tables of starbucks to watch the ducks and geese paddle away. Posh baby one and I will be headed down to help with the efforts, not that it is all that dirty; leaves and such, but it's a nice way to get together with neighbors and show how much we care about the wefare of our town and the people, wildlife and nature involved in it.



A community activity we utilize around here is the Delaware River Towpath, you may have seen me mention riding into town with the girls in my trailer along this beautiful path that stretches from about Easton, PA down through Bristol, PA. This path was vital to the commerce of eastern PA for many years and groups have made it their mission to restore it to be enjoyed again however with the recent flooding of the Delaware River the path needs constant maintenance by all who use it so darling husband and posh babies and I will be spending time fixing up and triming as we go along on our weekly rides. It's little things that are not even organized, may not even be noticed, that teach you children what family, community and pride are.



Another great service that we have begun being involved with is at our church, a food pantry. At mass once a month we are asked to bring non-perisables to donate and though many stop here, we also, every Tuesday give bags of groceries to the poor as well as serve a dinner in the church hall on Sunday evenings. Posh baby one and I head over tuesday afternoons to prepare the bags for distribution.

Check out you local churches and community center for activities in your area, it's a great way to keep kids busy, help your community and teach valuable lessons.

i say, you think...

1. Purchase ::


2. Squeaky clean ::


3. Blended ::


4. Wednesday ::


5. Function ::


6. Look down ::


7. July? ::


8. Raspberry ::


9. Assertive ::


10. Cracker ::

greener dressing

What do you think of when you hear "dressing green"? Do visions of brown, scratchy, unflattering items dance in your head? Well think again...

Dressing organically has never been more easy or stylish...the fashion team has highlighted many different items and lines of hot, organic clothes but why bother buying organic?

Well to begin with conventionally-grown cotton occupies less than 10% of the world's farmland, but uses 25% of the world's chemical pesticides and the EPA considers 7 of the top 15 pesticides used, much of which ends up in our lakes, streams, and rivers, on cotton as known carcinogens! A 2000 USDA study revealed that eighty-four million pounds of pesticides were sprayed on cotton in the U.S.A, ranking it second behind corn, YES that popular side dish many eat, and cotton is also a food crop; cottonseed oil is used in many processed and snack foods and cottonseed is used in cattle feed. During processing, cotton is subjected to chlorine bleach, heavy metal dyes and formaldehyde resins (used for "easy care treatments".)

Organic cotton is a return to safe, sustainable practices. It is grown with natural fertilizers and free from toxic chemicals. Organic cotton fields must be pesticide-free for at least three years to be certified organic, and the cotton must be processed according to international organic standards. Farmers rely on crop rotation to replenish and maintain soil fertility and botanical or biological means are used to control pests and weeds. .

People with allergies and chemical sensitivity especially benefit from organic cotton clothing because conventional cotton may retain harmful toxic residues, even for those who don't have sensitive skin, organic cotton will just feel better against your skin.

Check out some of these hot lines for baby and childrens clothing made of organic cotton: Misha Lulu, Speesees and Sckoon
Bamboo is another eco-friendly material mainly because it's naturally pest-resistant, requires little water and is amazingly regenerative.

This amazing material contains a natural element called "bamboo kun" which is a natural antibiotic that protects the wearer from nasty germs as well as body odor, caused by bacteria living in our armpits. The fiber is also biodegradable and comfortable. Fabric made of bamboo is silky smooth and because it naturally "wicks" away perspiration, it doesn't have to be washed as frequently as clothes made of polyester.

Some lines that are using bamboo include: Sprout kids clothing, New Balance and again Misha Lulu

With all this talk about eco-friendly, organic clothing we can not overlook, hemp. Hemp cloth is claimed to be warmer, softer, and stronger than cotton, and only gets better with age. Hemp, also has few enemy weeds or insects so it needs no pesticides and leaves the soil in better shape than it was originally (an acre of land planted with hemp can yield about two to three times more fiber than the same area planted with cotton.) Although industrial hemp cannot be grown legally in the U.S., forcing all hemp-wear manufacturers to seek suppliers from other countries.

My experience with clothing lines made of hemp is limited so far but doing recent research i came across some cute lines: Mountains of the moon and Sweetgrass

Some of these lines are available for sale at pretty little pumpkins and many of the other hot little boutiques from some of the POSHEST mamas online!

mamas dealing with addiction

my name is heather, you may recognize me from my saturday posts on easy ways to go green. i have been a posh mama since almost the beginning, i have a four fabulous kids, manage a home, work at a funeral home, own a hip little childrens boutique, and i am married to and alcoholic/ addict.

my life has been insane for the last few years, and although it took a LONG time for me to ask for help, apparently most of my family and friends knew what was going on.

i have begun this group, mamas dealing with addiction, to help other women, as well as myself, deal with what having a loved one with addiction does to US!

and yes...i attend al-anon meetings and i love them, however, honestly, with all that goes on in my daily life i can rarely make it.

please join me on what i hope to be a healing journey and if you know someone or think you know someone who is dealing with addiction please let them know about this group.

hot little hand sanitizer recipe...

item you will need:

100% pure aloe vera gel
witch hazel
tea tree oil
peppermint oil


add 1 cup of pure aloe vera gel into a bowl

slowly mix in 1-2 teaspoons of Witch Hazel. (you do not want the consistency of the gel to become too thin)

add 3-4 drops of tea tree essential oil, and 3-4 drops of peppermint essential oil.

slowly stir ingredients together.

(if you find the consistency to be too thin, add more aloe vera gel a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency)

store in any desired container and use as you would any other hand sanitizer

*the ingredients in this mixture are safe and natural to use on your body. witch hazel, tea tree oil and peppermint all have antiseptic and astringent properties to them, which make them great for killing germs and also healing small cuts and wounds. The aloe vera gel will help soothe skin and keep skin from drying out


**tips & warnings
you can add other scented essential oils to the mixture for a more pleasant scent such as lavender oil or rose oil and if you find the tea tree oil and peppermint oil scent to strong, use lesser amounts

witch hazel and tea tree oil can cause excessive dryness in people with sensitive skin, if you find this occurring, limit the use of your sanitizer to a few times a day

i say, you think...

1. Referral ::


2. Indiana ::


3. Foil ::


4. Horizon ::


5. Event ::


6. Sailing ::


7. Footage ::


8. Sunday ::


9. Breathtaking ::


10. Dude! ::

Unconscious Mutterings

FDA warns consumers about raw red tomatoes

checkout this article on the tomato warnings...

FDA warns consumers about raw red tomatoes

bug off!!!!

Tis the season...uuuggghhhh! We have already begun being harassed by mosquitoes, ticks and ants to name a few, I love being outside with my family from dawn to dusk but how can we survive the pesky pests without poisoning ourselves?

Not only do synthetic repellents contaminate the earth, they cause harm to people, especially the delicate skin of babies and children. If repellents are killing bugs what are they doing to the person applying them? Which is worse though, chemicals leaching into my babies blood stream or the threat of west nile virus, lyme disease, or worse?

Check out these awesome ideas for some natural deterrents and even some things to avoid that will actually attract those buggers.

The number one most wanted offender...the MOSQUITO.

These natural products will effectively repel mosquitoes, but they require more frequent reapplication (at least every 2 hours) and higher concentrations then traditional DEET. Try making your own natural mosquito repellant with essential oils. Simply put a few drops of any of the following essential oils in a handful of the carrier oil (mosquitoes are obsessive about keeping their wings grease-free) and spread it on you. Some oils, like tea tree oil, olive oil, almond or jojoba can be applied straight on to your skin. NEVER use STRAIGHT essential oils on your skin.

Citronella Oil
Lemon Eucalyptus Oil
Cinnamon Oil
Castor Oil
Rosemary Oil
Lemongrass Oil
Cedar Oil
Peppermint Oil
Clove Oil
Geranium Oil
Possibly Oils from Verbena, Pennyroyal, Lavender, Pine, Cajeput, Basil, Thyme, Allspice, Soybean, and Garlic

If you already have mosquito bites, try a little tea tree oil directly on the bites. It is a great remedy.

Also try these ideas for while outdoors:

Stay in the breeze. Mosquitoes can fly only eight m.p.h., so it doesn't take much to waft them away and
the more we sweat, breathe and agitate, the more Mosquitoes we will attract and from a farther distance.

Choose a high sunny location. Mosquitoes dehydrates easily.

Wear long, loose-fitting clothing. White masks your silhouette in the open, blue and red are the
worst; mosquitoes mistake it for flowering plants from which they draw food.

STAY AWAY FROM...

Dark Clothing- Many mosquitoes use vision to locate hosts from a distance. Dark clothes and
foliage are initial attractants

Carbon Dioxide- You give off more carbon dioxide when you are hot or have been exercising. A
burning candle or other fire is another source of carbon dioxide.

Floral or Fruity Fragrances

Moisture





The number two offender...the TICK.

There really is not as much offered for tick repellents, however some great ideas for tick control and tick bite prevention are:

Tuck in your socks to keep those stinky critters from crawling up and hiding, also put on some light colored clothing, the light clothing again masks you.

Mowing your lawn will help get rid of ticks, ticks prefer to stay stealth in high, thick grass so they can hijack a ride on unsuspecting traffic.

Palmerosa as well as Rose Geranium oils can be applied to your dog's collar or combined with a moisturizing lotion like cocoa butter or aloe, and applied to your skin as well to help prevent tick infestations.

Most UN-wanted criminal number three is the ANT.

Try these simple, homemade remedies to keep ants at bay, but remember to keep them away from kids. Although these deterrents are natural some are not for human consumption.

Keep ants from crawling up a picnic table by standing each leg in a small pan of water.

To kill ants, use a paste of equal parts of borax and confectioner sugar.

Leave a few tea bags of mint tea near areas where the ants seem most active. Dry, crushed mint leaves, mint essential oils or cloves also work as ant deterrents.


HOT TIP...

Use banana peels to repel fleas.

Check out some great planting ideas for around your home and yard to keep bugs at bay.

Basil - plant close to the house and it will repel mosquitoes.
Lavender - plant around the house to repel flies and mosquitoes.
Castor Bean Plant - plant in pots within the house; replant outdoors to repel mozzies.
Scented Geraniums - plant in pots and the garden to repel mosquitoes
Citrosa Plants - plant in pots and the garden to repel mosquitoes
Lemon Thyme - plant in pots to repel mosquitoes
Citronella Grass - plant in pots to repel mosquitoes
Common Marigold - plant in pots and the garden to repel mosquitoes
Thai Lemon Grass - (Cymbopogon citratus) is an effective mosquito repellent.
Rosemary - powdered Rosemary leaves are used as a flea and tick repellent
Chamomile - repels mosquitoes
Citriodora - repels mosquitoes

But the BEST tip to repel troublesome insects and even the pesky husband...FRESH GARLIC!!! This miracle spice comes up with every bit of research I do for deterrents so chomp away.

Good luck and enjoy the great outdoors in a FABULOUS, healthy way!!!

$10.00 coupon code

pretty little pumpkins

is offering $10.00 off on any order that includes an ah goo baby plush pad!!!

just use coupon code "ahgoo" during checkout

to celebrate ah goo baby plush pads being featured on NBC's Today Show!!!

check out the buzz here:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/24774588#24774588

and stop by pretty little pumpkins to pick up your very own plush pad soon...

a composting we shall go...

The weather on the east coast has gone from dismal to BEAUTIFUL in a matter of twenty four hours so the kids and I are off to our next outdoor, going green project...a COMPOST PILE!!!

Now although you are thinking, "Wow, what a GLAMOROUS task!" it really is a dirty job...HA!

When I was growing up we always had a compost pile in our yard and thought it quite strange when friends threw things into their regular trash like coffee grounds and banana peels. What were they thinking? Now that we have our own yard and some time to do things that involve our own kids I thought this would be a perfect way to teach them about recycling some of our own kitchen waste, being kind to our planet by re-using the materials we have put into the pile to feed our newly planted fruits, veggies, herbs (thank for the tips Suzi!) and flowers instead of processed poisons and maybe even throw in a little lesson to teach them (and my darling husband) about reducing waste.

My father still tends to his pile and I must say, his flowers are beautiful and they NEVER use chemicals in their beds, or yard for that matter. So i am taking some of the recipe from his wise ways as well as some research I have done online...the miracle that is the internet!!!

Take note mamas, I DO NOT have all the time in the world to work on this so I am paring it down to fit into our everyday lifestyle, as to not have it become a chore that gets forgotten because of the hassel.

The first step is to talk location: The best is a level, well-drained, area, if you a re in a warm area you will want to put it in a shady spot so the pile will not dry out too quickly. You will also want to keep it on dirt, not a patio or asphalt as to promote natural help from earthworms...they LOVE this stuff! Unless you are using a premade composter, a great option but I cannot see spending money on something I can do for free. Most important is to make the location accessible, will you really use it if you have to trek across the town to get to it?

After you have the perfect place picked, next you have to build a little "shelter" for it. From what I have read and what dear old dad tells me the ideal is a 3 sided box of sorts to make it easy to turn if you wish but also to take out the material when you want to use it. We are going with wood, we have a fireplace so we have tons of logs crying out for a home, and a bonus is that the logs will eventually become compost themselves...always thinking!

Time to start our pile!!! The two basic ingredients that make up compost are green garden debris (grass clippings or old plants and kitchen waste) and brown garden debris (dry leaves). Green ingredients are high in nitrogen, adding too many greens can make the pile smell bad and brown materials are high in carbon. Compost piles with a balance of one part green to two part brown materials break down fastest. The easiest way to create this balance is to add one layer of green material to the pile then top it with two layers of brown material, then mix them together. (I learned to add some finished compost or garden soil to help jump start the microbial activity in the pile.)

Now that we have the "mix" it is important to check the moisture level, with the right moisture level should feel like a damp, wrung-out sponge. Too much moisture can cause temperatures to fall within the pile (and make it smell). Too little moisture slows down the decomposition rate and keeps the pile from heating up. Check the moisture level once a week and adjust it if necessary by adding water to increase moisture or more browns to help dry the pile out.

The last step is to turn the pile once a week to move new additions from the outside of the pile in, this also keeps the pile from compacting, reducing airflow and slowing down decomposition.

Thats' it girls!!! You should have ready to use compost in about two months.

Remember though, NEVER add animal waste, meats, oils, dairy, diseased plants, weeds that have gone to seed, or plants treated with pesticides or herbicides to your compost.

memorial day sale!!!

get your red, white and blue on at pretty little pumpkins!!!

from now thru tues may 27, 2008 save 10% off EVERY purchase of $100.00 or more...including sale and clearance items!!!

just use code "may25" at the checkout

stop by and check out the hot new things and the fab sales!!!


prettylittlepumpkins.com

forwards

we all get TONS of forwards everyday and if you don't like them, by all means delete them or skip over.

though sometimes God sends these chain letters to us for a reason.

my life of late has been UNREAL and the emotions my children and myself are experiencing have been like a roller coaster...i don't forward most of the things i receive, but what i do, and what i have posted to this blog have helped me and my children in ways some of you may understand, many will not.

if you have an open mind keep reading this blog if not then please, by all means close the window...but know no matter how meaningless the words maybe to you...

one stupid forward maybe all it takes to change someones day, week or even life.

have a FABULOUS weekend!!! and please use this day as what it is meant for, a memorial of some FABULOUS men and women.

reason, season or lifetime

People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person.

When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you
have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this
person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.

Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon
in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life.


It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.

thank God

I AM THANKFUL:

FOR THE WIFE
WHO SAYS IT'S HOT DOGS TONIGHT,
BECAUSE SHE IS HOME WITH ME,
AND NOT OUT WITH SOMEONE ELSE.

FOR THE HUSBAND
WHO IS ON THE SOFA
BEING A COUCH POTATO,
BECAUSE HE IS HOME WITH ME
AND NOT OUT AT THE BARS.

FOR THE TEENAGER
WHO IS COMPLAINING ABOUT DOING DISHES
BECAUSE IT MEANS SHE IS AT HOME,
NOT ON THE STREETS.

FOR THE TAXES I PAY (?)
BECAUSE IT MEANS
I AM EMPLOYED .

FOR THE MESS TO CLEAN AFTER A PARTY
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE
BEEN SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS.

FOR THE CLOTHES THAT FIT A LITTLE TOO SNUG
BECAUSE IT MEANS
I HAVE ENOUGH TO EAT. !

FOR MY SHADOW THAT WATCHES ME WORK
BECAUSE IT MEANS
I AM OUT IN THE SUNSHINE

FOR A LAWN THAT NEEDS MOWING,
WINDOWS THAT NEED CLEANING,
AND GUTTERS THAT NEED FIXING
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE A HOME .

FOR ALL THE COMPLAINING
I HEAR ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT
BECAUSE IT MEANS
WE HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH..

FOR THE PARKING SPOT
I FIND AT THE FAR END OF THE PARKING LOT
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM CAPABLE OF WALKING
AND I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH TRANSPORTATION ..

FOR MY HUGE HEATING BILL
BECAUSE IT MEANS
I AM WARM.

FOR THE LADY BEHIND ME IN CHURCH
WHO SINGS OFF KEY BECAUSE IT MEANS
I CAN HEAR.

FOR THE PILE OF LAUNDRY AND IRONING
BECAUSE IT MEANS
I HAVE CLOTHES TO WEAR.

FOR WEARINESS AND ACHING MUSCLES
AT THE END OF THE DAY
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN
CAPABLE OF WORKING HARD.

FOR THE ALARM THAT GOES OFF
IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM ALIVE.

MyHotComments

pennsbury senior prom!!!

for those of you in the know, pennsbury high school hosted it's FABULOUS, extravaganza, just ask artist JOHN MAYER who actually performed there a few years ago, of a senior prom last night!!!

one of the ONLY schools left in the entire country to host this gala still AT the high school, it is the highlight of ALL lower bucks county.

i graduated in 1994 and a good friend of mine decided a limo would NOT do for his date, himself and two friends so they rented a helicopter and landed on the football field and the rest is now world known history.

below is an article written in the trentonian newspaper regarding the fanfare that has become a small town prom...

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Posted on Sun, May 18, 2008 Zoom + | Zoom -
A 'PROM'inent night at Pennsbury High
By Sulaiman Abdur-Rahman
FALLS TWP., Pa. — Sporting a multi-colored springtime dress, Amber Mazzocchi flipped burgers on a grill set up on a truck-towed float that chugged along at snail’s pace.

Joined by 15 others, Mazzocchi’s entourage hooted and waved to the thousands who lined the parking lots and grass fields of Pennsbury High yesterday in awe of the school’s annual spectacle — senior prom.

Perhaps it’s this flair and red-carpet treatment that prompted Reader’s Digest in 2004 to honor Pennsbury as host of America’s No. 1 prom.

“There’s no other prom like this in the nation,” a tuxedo-wearing Mike Ostro said while Mazzocchi was grilling the beef patties. “It’s the experience. You have to go all out.”

Advertisement
And going “all out” for Pennsbury’s senior prom is a longtime school district tradition that always excites the community. School officials say the prom gets bigger every year, but the truth is that the gala hasn’t changed much in the five years since I attended the prom as a student.

The 2003 senior prom had a Hollywood theme, which is comparable to yesterday’s theme of “Big Scenes from the TV Screen.”

The inside of the school’s east campus was transformed into a virtual studio with artwork ranging from an “American Idol” stage set to the painted figures of the six Mighty Morphin Power Rangers.

The decorative designs were the fruit of several months of labor from student and parent volunteers who worked tirelessly since January to put on the big dance. More than 1,200 prom attendees hit the dance floor yesterday in the school’s gym with popular rock and hip-hop music blazing from the speakers.

But as exquisite as the inside always is, the highlight of Pennsbury’s senior prom is always the ways in which students arrive to the red carpet.



Students strolled through in fire trucks, trolleys, Hummers, stretch Lincoln Navigators, unmarked police vehicles — and one couple exited from a Hearse.

Then you had Stephen Sek, who escorted his date, Sarah Eppolito, in a paramedic stretcher. The idea spawned from the fact that Sek is a “big fan” of the TV show Scrubs and that Eppolito’s dad works at Temple University Hospital.

The theme song to “SpongeBob SquarePants” blasted from the truck-hauled “homemade pineapple” that pumped out bubbles through a pipe. The pineapple vehicle carried a group of 10 prom-goers.

“It took 2½ months to make,” said Melanie Perlstein, who was decked out in a zebra-colored dress.

The guys and girls created the apparatus because “it’s what we wanted the whole year,” said Joe Parrell. “This is the completion of our awesome year.”

Shawn Johnson and Jenna Harris revved their engines as the couple rode alongside each other in their ATVs. “I’m having a lot of fun already,” Johnson said while his engine boomed with his ATV halted in the slowing-moving queue to the red carpet. “And this is just the parade.”

It’s nice to return to my alma mater to see familiar faces at the prom that, in addition to being recognized by Reader’s Digest, was profiled in the 2002 book “Wonderland: A Year in the Life of an American High School.”

“I think each year brings its own uniqueness,” Pennsbury Principal David Bowman said amid the cacophony of color and noise and excitement. “This is my fifth prom, and this is the best I seen. All of America really needs to learn about this prom and this community.”

Sulaiman Abdur-Rahman is a Trentonian reporter. Reach him at sabdur-rahman@trentonian.com.


PS...the HEARSE...MY COUSIN!!!!!

Unconscious Mutterings

I say ... and you think ... ?

1. Concentration ::


2. Relocated ::


3. Clot ::


4. Joints ::


5. Satellite ::


6. Money back ::


7. Kittens ::


8. Shady ::


9. Drain ::


10. Stroke ::

Welcome to the 2008 edition of getting to know your friends

Change all the answers so they apply to you. The theory is that you will learn a lot of little things about your friends that you might not have known!

1. What time did you get up this morning? 8:30a

2. Diamonds or pearls? pearls


3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? NO IDEA


4. What is your favorite TV show? ghost whisperer


5. What do you usually have for breakfast? special k and coffee


6. What is your middle name? ann...a product of the 70's

7. What food do you dislike? not much


8. What is your favorite CD at the moment? no time


9. What time is it right now? 11:40p



10. Favorite sandwich? turkey ruebens


11. What characteristic do you dislike? liars


12. Favorite item of clothing? jeans



13. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you Go? any place warm and sunny

Where's #14?

15. Where would you retire to? anyplace warm and sunny



16. What was your most recent memorable birthday? the big 30

Where's #17?

18. Furthest place you are sending this? the internet is endless


19. When is your birthday? april 21


20. Morning person or a night person? NIGHT

Where's #21 & 22?


23. Pets? 2 kitty cats and soon a puppy


24. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share with your friends? NO i am NOT pregnant again!!!


25. What did you want to be when you were little? a vet

26. How are you today? EXHAUSTED


27. What is your favorite flower? daisies

28. What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to? i like any friday the 13th's


29. What are you listening to right now? family guy


30. What was the last thing you ate? reese's peanut butter cup sundae



31. Do you wish on stars? always



32. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? In my house, if I were a crayon, I’d be naked and broken under a piece of furniture


33. How is the weather right now? Cold and rainy


34. Last person you spoke to on the phone? my husband

35. Favorite soft drink? fresca

36. Favorite restaurant? john henry's

37. Hair color? dark brown


38. what was your favorite toy as a child? my bike



39. Summer or winter? Summer


41. Chocolate or Vanilla? vanilla



42. Coffee or tea? depends on the time of day



43. Do you want your friends to email you back? Well that is just a dumb question…



44. When was the last time you cried? wed


45. What is under your bed? GIANT dust bunnies

46. What did you do last night? laundry

47. What are you afraid of? robbers


48. Salty or sweet? Both if it’s PMS time, otherwise I try to avoid them


49. How many keys on your key ring? 2 – car and house


50. How many years at your current job? almost 10


51. Favorite day of the week? Friday


52. Do you make friends easily? yup...very chatty


53. How many people will you send this to? check my blog



54. How many will respond? ?



55. Do you like finding out all this stuff about your friends? again very chatty ;)

HOT shopping totes!!!!

i am ALL about making it easy to be earth friendly and i love, love, love the idea of re-usable shopping totes for going to the market or even to target. with that in mind know that i have spent well over $50.00 on the darn things because i keep leaving them in my car and i always buy more at the checkout!!!

well i recently found an answer to my "memory" prayers!!! i have a friend melanie, of bags by melanie who creates BEAUTIFUL shopping totes. check these babies out...you will NEVER forget these?

not only do they have a lot more style than those basic (but still GREAT) bags...check out the features:



there are two handles 30" long, so they are long enough that you can toss them over your shoulder...those of you with small children REALLY grasp the importance of this when you are fumbling with a toddler, purse and keys it is not the easiest thing to have a bag of groceries in the crook of your arm



the size is UNREAL!!! they are VERY close to the size of an actual brown paper bag. in all the different types of totes i have tried i have never found one this large. the bag measures 16" long by 11" across and are 6" wide with a flat bottom, check out just a sampling of what we popped into this baby...

but the BEST feature of this bag is although she has many to choose from you can have her custom make one just for you!!! how AWESOME is that?!?!? i am the ONLY mama in yardley with a rocking black with pink skulls tote!!!



check out melanies shop on etsy at bags by melanie

and don't forget to stop by pretty little pumpkins for new items and sales all the time!!!

"When you do the common things in life in an uncommon
way, you will command the attention of the world."


--George Washington Carver

I say ... and you think ... ?

Free association is described as a "psychonanalytic procedure in which a person is encouraged to give free rein to his or her thoughts and feelings, verbalizing whatever comes into the mind without monitoring its content." Over time, this technique is supposed to help bring forth repressed thoughts and feelings that the person can then work through to gain a better sense of self.

That's an admirable goal, but for the purposes of this excercise, we're just hoping to have a little fun with the technique. Each week I'll post ten words to which you can respond to with the first thing that comes to mind.

1. Track ::


2. Snake ::


3. Assignment ::


4. Blockbuster ::


5. Bombastic ::


6. Adventure ::


7. First time ::


8. Aged ::


9. Grip ::


10. Shortcut ::

Unconscious Mutterings

quote

All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother.

-Abraham Lincoln

An ounce of mother is worth a pound of clergy.

-Spanish Proverb

they're here!!!!

the new misha lulu is here!!!

come check it all out at pretty little pumpkins

happy mama's day!

It's almost here! The LOVELIEST day of the year. No I am not talking about Christmas...I am talking about the the one day every year when daddy gets up with the pumpkins, throws together a special breakfast and everyone stays nice and quiet so mama can sleep in...until 8 or so!!!

What do you all do for the blessed occasion?

My family all gathers together for brunch made by all the boys at my parents home. FABULOUS!!! The boys cook, serve and clean up as well as chase kiddies while us girls sit around chatting...oh the joy!

As for the gifts we stay away from cut flowers, candy and even jewelry...not that those are not three of my favorite things, especially the jewelry, but i prefer to give things for a beautiful spring holiday that will grow and flourish as well as provide memories each year. Two years ago my mother in-law had a beautiful weeping cherry tree planted in my front yard for me...YES, I was getting one for that specific spot anyway ;)

So if you a lucky enought to have sunny weather this mother's day (we are not on the east coast) try these little tips for after your hike/ picnic that Suzi suggested:

Check into giving potted plants, a great alternative to taking the lives of innocent little flowers being cut down in their prime!!! A few weeks back I wrote an article on bringing plants into your home and workplace so I have re-listed some great ones here again:

Gerber daisy

Bamboo palm

Spider plant

Areca palm

Reed palm

Dwarf date palm

Boston fern

Janet Craig dracaena

English ivy

Australian sword fern

Peace Lily

Rubber plant

Weeping fig

I actually went to the florist yesterday and picked up nine, yes you read correctly we have mamas, grand-mamas, god-mamas & special aunts; in my opinion whether you gave birth or not, if you take care of a child in any capacity you deserve a mother's day gift, nine little peace lillies. I must say the lillies and the adorable pots I picked out for each one came to about $15.00 a piece. I was shocked that what I consider to be such a thoughtful, generous gift was so inexpensive.

Now my own little pumpkins are giving me a day outside, my FAVORITE. When the weather gets nice again, the kids and I are going back out to plant more "kid-friendly" plants. Baby #1 even made me some "coupons" good to be used for digging, weeding, raking leaves and such (he's 9 so of course he HAD to tell me early;) ) We have used up all of our planting area for this year so I went out and bought recycled, re-usable pots to make little container gardens for our patio. The girls love the LOUD flowers like marigolds and daisies so that's what we will get...LOT'S of color!

Whatever you give, receive or do for mothers day, just knowing a child makes you the luckiest, most blessed person "in the galaxy!" I thank my babies everyday for choosing me to be their mama, they always laugh, but really there wouldn't be a mother's day without those precious little devils.

Have a FABULOUS mama's day and week and hug every baby, whether 1 second or 100 years old extra tight!!!

some of the things in my purse...

what do you keep in your purse...are you surprised to see what's actually living in there?

check out this beautiful hand crafted bag designed by pamela robinson of unique handbags using a variety of different fabrics, there are also custom designs girls.

here is the beautiful custom designed bag that's waiting to be shipped to the winner!



check out the link for ORGANIZED MOMS...you can earn up to TEN entries !

*a winner will be chosen by random drawing sunday may 11th 2008 and notified by email

DON'T FORGET TO PRETTY LITTLE PUMPKINS WHEN YOU POST!!!

new misha lulu

we have developed quite a following here at pretty little pumpkins for a HOT line!!!

misha lulu

check us out in the next few days...new items are on their way as we speak!!!

pretty little pumpkins