Library Time: Toddler Challenge

With Munchkin in school in the mornings, Peanut and I have a little time to kill. On Monday, we headed to the library. While we went to get books for Advent, I thought it would be a good time to let Peanut play. He had a blast exploring, before finding the train table. He definitely had a lot of fun, and was very interested in the books that we brought home. Now that the weather is getting iffy, I have a feeling that we'll be spending more mornings at the library.

One Rookie Mom Toddler Challenge done!

Into The Winter

Although the season doesn't officially start until December 21, December always seemed more winter than autumn to me. Now that November is ending, I'm looking forward to the winter ahead. So just as I did back in September, here are some things that plan to do this winter in addition to the holiday activities I talked about on Friday.

Build a snowman - Usually we just take advantage of the wonderful snowmen that have been around us, but this year, with our back yard, I'm hoping that we'll get in a few good ones.

Drink hot chocolate by the fire - Munchkin was a fan of hot chocolate last year, and Peanut's love of chocolate milk makes me think that he will be too.

Go sledding - We've not done this before, now to just find a small hill.

Make snow angels - Something that we have done before, but this year Peanut can participate.

Have a snowball fight - I'm not sure why I've never thought of this before, but it should be a lot of fun.

Go to the children's museum - We are big fans, especially when the weather gets terrible.

Go to the natural history museum - This is something that I've been meaning to do for a long time, and I think that the boys would really love it.

Family movie afternoon - I fear that we'll be stuck inside a lot this winter.

What kind of winter activities do you do?

A Crafty First Birthday

Two weeks ago, I talked about how I had been making some Pintrest inspired gifts. Well, today I gave two of the gifts at my niece's first birthday party.

The onsies I originally saw on Baby Rabies. I wasn't great at controlling the glue on either (that's why there is a splotch on the "e" in Love), and I didn't make the red dark enough on the Joy, but I think that they both came out very well.

I got the tutus from Simply Real Moms, and I love the way that they came out. Since these were a surprise, I used Peanut as a model, and had to guess what the difference would be. The red is a little longer than the purple, but both are nice a poofy.

The rest of my projects are Christmas gifts, so I'll be keeping them a secret until then.

Getting Ready for December

The end of the month is upon us. The turkey is carved and Santa arrived during the parade. It is time to start looking towards Christmas, and how to celebrate the lead up. I already talked about Advent, and I don't want to go crazy since I still want a relatively simple holiday, but there are some traditions that I am looking forward to doing.

Get a Christmas Tree - Ever since Munchkin could walk, he loved to run around the tree lot as we picked out a tree. There is something about being surrounded by all those trees and picking out the perfect one which is a great way to start the anticipation of the holidays.

Decorating - Last year, our elf decorated one night and the boys loved it. I'm thinking that while they are little, I will let the elf take care of the decorations.

Visiting Santa - There is a mall not too far from us which has a great Santa. We've gone every year and I'm looking forward to continuing that tradition.

Decorating a Gingerbread House - So far only Munchkin has done this, but maybe Peanut can help this year.

Baking Christmas Cookies - We started this tradition last year, taking advantage of my in-laws new and open kitchen. And while this year, our kitchen is big enough for this, we'll probably go to my in-laws once again. Also, I anticipate another helper, or maybe two.

Look at Christmas Lights - There are a couple of neighborhoods not that far from us which have some amazingly decorated houses. We skipped this last year since the weather never worked out for us, but I'm hoping that we'll have better luck this year.

Holiday Fondue Party - This is also something that we've been doing for a while, and it is only getting more fun as our friends have babies.

Christmas Eve - I'm not sure yet exactly what, but I want to start a new tradition this year. My family was never big on Christmas Eve, we celebrated more on Christmas and Boxing Day, so when Hubby and I started dating, we always spent Christmas Eve with his family. That tradition continued until very recently when my in-laws decided not to make the trip down. Since Christmas is such a busy day for us, we really can't get up to them and expect to get home at a reasonable time, so the past few years we've been on our own. This year, I want to figure out something to make the night for us, like a special dinner or maybe having hot chocolate by the tree. I have a little time to figure it out.

Along with maybe a few art projects, I think that this sounds like a perfect December for us. How do you plan on spending December?

Sweet Thanks

Thanksgiving is my mother's holiday. As Munchkin said the other day, it isn't dinner, it's a feast. She makes two full dinners, a turkey dinner and a ham dinner, with all the sides that you expect from both and then some more. For the past few years, I've assisted with dessert. Before Munchkin was mobile, I would make multiple pies from scratch. With two very active children, I have not been able to do that. This year, I had a helper.

I still did not make the number of pies that I used to, we stuck to one pumpkin pie and two corn breads. But Munchkin was thrilled to be helping, he's been talking about making the pie for weeks. In fact, he got very upset last week when we bought a pie to have for dessert, because he was going to make one.

The corn bread is new this year, not something that my mother has ever served before. We'll see if it is something that we'll make again. Although I do like the idea of starting this as a new tradition for us.

And as fall is quickly coming to an end (as evidenced by the snow we had), I was glad to do two more items from our fall list as well as one of my simple goals.

Wordless Wednesday: Thanksgiving Prep

Taking Care of Me

Four years ago, I talked about cleaning up my beauty routine. Over the years, I've switched a lot of my products. I've had problems finding a shampoo and conditioner that I really like, but I've been using Pai on my face for a while now. It works well for me, and I absolutely love it. I often use these to give myself mini-facials, and I think it has helped my skin be clearer than it has ever been.

This past weekend, I got a long, overdue haircut. It felt nice to take the time for me, and was a great reminder that I need to take that time for myself more often.

And while things like this are not as "clean" as I would like, sometimes it is worth it.

Gifts Of Baby Showers Past

Munchkin and I recently attended a baby shower for his first teacher, from back when we were doing a mommy and me program when he was Peanut's age. It was a cute shower, and brought to mind last year when we celebrated my niece's coming arrival. While I loved all the items that I gave, it was probably not the most practical gift. My sister-in-law is a former reading teacher, and I got distracted and blew a lot of my budget on books (not that that was a bad idea).

Clothes - Having two boys, I don't often get to shop for girl clothing, so this was something that I found hard to resist. Especially the Sleeping Beauty tutu that I found at Target, as Aurora was always my favorite princess.

Toys - Sophie the Giraffe was such a huge hit with both my boys, that "they" gave this as a gift to their new cousin. The Bright Starts Flutter and Link Friend was so loved by Peanut, that the boys gave one to her as well. If I had to pick on toy for a new baby, this would probably be it.

Aiden and Anais - It is not a big secret among my friends and family that I am a big fan of Aiden and Anais. I wish that I had found them before Munchkin was born, but something that I found so very useful with Peanut. I was thrilled to see the swaddle blankets, dream blanket and sleepsack on the registry.

Avent - She had asked for Soothies and Avent Natural Bottles. Munchkin and Peanut both loved Avent Sippy Cups, so we gave one of them too.

Books - In addition to staples such as Goodnight Moon and Five Little Monkeys, I had found a new twist on the classics Sense & Sensibility, Romeo & Juliet and Alice in Wonderland. Indestructibles have been a favorite of the boys, and Yummy is a book that Munchkin has come back to over and over again.

If I could go back in time, I would probably do things a little differently, but I do not regret giving any of these gifts. What gifts have you given for baby showers?

*Amazon links are affiliate.

Week End Reading - 23 Nov 14

Things are getting busy as we gear up to Thanksgiving this week, and the Christmas season right after.

10 Things Your Mom Never Told You

To The Mom Nursing A Toddler

How to Simplify the Holidays Without Feeling Like a Scrooge

Missing the Dishwasher

When we moved last summer, it was an amazing upgrade for us. The place is bigger, we have a backyard, and the boys absolutely love it. One thing that is missing is a dishwasher. I don't think I realized how much I used our dishwasher until we didn't have one. And while I try to have the sink cleared every night before bed, we use a lot of dishes throughout the day. Washing dishes all day long is not exactly fun, but neither is the huge mess that so very quickly builds up if you fall even a little bit behind.

So I'm getting into a rhythm, and I'm getting better at keeping up with the dishes, but I still really miss my dishwasher. Is there an appliance that you can't imagine living without, or one that you miss?

Dishwasher by brownpau, on Flickr

The NaBloPoMo Choice

As the month goes on, I am finding it harder and harder to write every night. I often have to choose between getting things done around the house (I have not been picking up as much as usual), or writing.

Life has also been very busy, with a new addition for a good friend, as well as all the normal chores that have to get done at the holidays with two children.

Tonight, I'm picking things. I have to go pick up some gifts, and I am not sure at what time I'll get home. So I'm calling an early blog night tonight, and heading out.

Hopefully, I'll be all refreshed for writing this weekend.

One Week

We are one week away from Thanksgiving, and there is still so much to do.

I have to find a corn bread recipe for Munchkin and I to make together.

I have to gather the ingredients for the desserts to make next week.

But tonight I'm taking some time for myself, having a little pamper time. Watching a little tv and heading to bed a little early.

Good night, internet.

Wordless Wednesday: Dessert

Getting Ready for Advent

It's getting to be that time of the year again, Thanksgiving is approaching much faster than I am comfortable with, and the Christmas season right behind it. Like last year, while I don't officially start the "holiday season" until Thanksgiving is over, I do need to start preparing now.

The boys are still very young, although Munchkin is old enough to know and remember Christmas and has already started talking about it. I am once again going with a simple holiday season, focusing more on our time together and happy memories. I don't want us to be so busy that we don't enjoy ourselves.

For advent calenders, I plan on finding the chocolate calendar again as that was a huge hit last year, as well as the Santa beard calendar. While I would love to do a huge activity based calendar, I think that the boys are really too young to get much out of it.

Last year, I talked about wanting to do a book based calendar, and I still love the idea. I am hoping to get books from the library and having a new story every night as part of our bedtime routine.

I want to make (or get) an advent wreath, which is something that Munchkin and I did at church last year and loved. I am also going to use the Truth in the Tinsel again, although probably on a modified schedule.

As December gets closer, I will talk more about our holiday traditions, both old and new.

Coming Back to the Bags

Back before Peanut was born, I was in desperate need of a new diaper bag. I was having a hard time deciding, but I ended up getting both the timi & leslie messenger bag as well as the Skip*Hop Grand Central. Early on, when I needed to be carrying a lot, I mostly used the Grand Central, saving the messenger bag for shorter trips. But as I needed less for Peanut, and Munchkin potty trained, the Grand Central has mostly been used for long trips (like visits to the in-laws), and the messenger bag has been my go to.

After nearly two years, both bags are broken. The Grand Central caught on something and tore one of the outer pockets, completely my fault, but still disappointing. It is still usable, but not always the most convenient bag for me. Just before Halloween, the cross body strap broke on my messenger bag, making it completely unusable.

Both bags served me well, and were well worth getting, but they weren't perfect. What I want is a bag that is loved like this bag is loved. A bag that I keep coming back to just because. In my search for a solution, I came across the Storksak Bobby, and I think that it could be that bag. If only it wasn't so cost prohibitive. (Although to be completely fair, I've thought that with every bag that I've ever gotten, not just diaper bags, I am notoriously fickle when it comes to bags.) I will probably end up replacing the broken strap for my messenger bag, but with Christmas coming up, a girl can dream.

*Amazon links are affiliate

Week End Reading - 16 Nov 14

I haven't gotten Lollipop yet, but I have been spending a lot of time reading up on it. I did do a little other reading as well, and as I get used to writing every night, I'm hoping to get to even more.

Come Back to Me

Dear Good Samaritan: You Save Christmas Every Year

Enough Moments

Halfway There

Here we are half way through the month and so far so good, even though writing every night has definitely taken it's toll on my evenings. While I have ideas for upcoming posts that I am working on, there have been some nights where I have really struggled to find something to write.

Spending this much time with my blog has also made me think more about the redesign that I've been talking about for a long time. Sites like Baby Rabies and Mama's Losin' It have both recently gone through redesigns that look great. I look at these sites, and it makes me think how I might want to change things around here. One major change I'm considering is making the change to Wordpress, although I am not completely sold since Blogger is working for me. The thing that I like the least about Blogger is the comment system, and I am not sure that is reason enough to change it all.

As the month goes on, I'll see how I feel.

The Evil of Pintrest

I feel like I've fallen down a rabbit hole. Pintrest has sucked me in, and now my time is not my own. I've been working on a few projects as an attempt at being a frugal gift giver (as the gift giving season is quickly approaching). I have to admit that some of these projects are coming out pretty well.

While I won't share specifics yet, I would hate to ruin the surprise, here are a few sites that I've been inspired by.

Baby Rabies
Mod Podge Rocks
Simply Real Moms

Still Singing Along

The other day I was driving home from drop off, when Stay by Lisa Leob came on the radio. Even though I have next to no voice at the moment, I couldn't help but sing along, taking me right back to high school. I don't know what it was about the lyrics that spoke to me back then when life seemed especially angsty and drama-filled.

High school was a very volatile time, as I am sure that it was for a lot of people. With the break-ups, make-ups and changing friendships, everything seemed to be vitally important and the absolute end of the world. Honestly, I can't think of a relationship at that time that this song fit perfectly, although I thought that it had been written for me.

And now, twenty years after it came out, when I hear this song I am still that high school girl freaking out over what's his name and changing friendships. I am still that college student having issues with her boyfriend. I am still that young woman in her twenties, not sure where she is going in life.

There are a few songs that just need to be belted when heard, and Stay is one of them. I remember countless drives with girlfriends blasting this song into the night. I remember a karaoke bachelorette party, our entire group singing at the top of our lungs even though we were taking time out from singing to eat cake.

Karaoke about seven weeks pregnant and trying to keep that secret. Fun times.

So while this song might not fit my life now, it will always hold a special place in my karaoke (or car or shower) repertoire.

Linking up with Mama Kat
6. What was your favorite song when you were 16 years old…is it still a favorite?

Wordless Wednesday: Brother Giggles

Going to the Zoo: Toddler Challenge

Activity 37 of the Rookie Moms Activities is going to the zoo. We are lucky enough to live relatively close to the Bronx Zoo, and we've actually had a membership for the past couple of years. We love going to the zoo and since there was no school today, we figured that it would be a good time to go. The weather was perfect, although it was very crowded, and not the usual quiet afternoon that we usually experience mid-week.

Peanut is a huge fan of the zoo, and in the past couple of trips has started to actually notice the animals. He especially loves the petting zoo (the full children's zoo has been closed this past year for renovations although I am sure that he would love that as well). Today there was no petting zoo as it is closed for the season, but Peanut was happy enough seeing the animals that were out, and were very active in the warm fall weather. He was thrilled with the deer, giraffes, zebras and flamingos. I wasn't able to get pictures today, as I was by myself and still not feeling 100%. (Photos from our trip to Boo at the Zoo at the end of October.)

This is probably one of the last trips for us before the end of the year, and I am so glad that we were able to make it today.

Start of the Cold Season

I woke up this morning with a sore throat, stuffy nose and just generally feeling crummy. I don't get sick days. Munchkin still had school. I still had to take care of Peanut. Luckily, I didn't feel so terrible that I couldn't function, but there was a bit more tv watching than usual today. I am about to finish my tea, then taking NyQuil (for the first time in years), and then on to bed.

Tomorrow is another day. With no school. Send more tea.

Photo by Elke Sisco on Flickr

Week End Reading - 7 Nov 14

I've been reading a lot less this week, between posting every day (yay!), and getting an invitation to Google Inbox (be still my geeky heart), but here are two things that I read this week.

Dear Mom - Your Sacrifice Did Not Go Unnoticed

Things That Make Me Happy

Here's hoping that next week is a bit more productive (or that I get upgraded to Lollipop!)

It's Saturday Night

It's Saturday night, and life is very different than it was six years ago.

Six years ago, I would be out. Either with friends or my husband. Or both.

Six years ago, I would be up late, and not worried about getting up early in the morning.

Six years ago, I would be dressed with heels, dancing into the night.

It's Saturday night, and I am home watching Doctor Who before I go back to cleaning up after dinner.

It's Saturday night, and I am wearing pjs and slippers before I head to bed so that I'm not too tired when I get woken at 5:30 tomorrow by someone who wants to nurse.

And while six years ago I thought that everything was perfect, it's Saturday night and I wouldn't change a thing.

Four Simple Goals (Before 2015)

Last year, I wrote about my four simple goals. I know how busy this time of year can get, so I like the focus that this project gives. Just four items that are important to you. I am definitely trying to live simpler, more in the moment as opposed to for the moment, and I am hoping that doing this again will help me with that.

The rules are the same as last year (as explained by a beautiful mess), goals should be simple, personal and activity oriented. Choose a reward for each accomplishment and blog about the results.

Before we reach 2015, I plan to:

1. Decorate for the holidays - In our last place, we would have our tree, but that was really it as far as decorations go. This year, with the new layout and the fact that Munchkin is older and more interested, I want to do more. I want this time of year to be magic, and the boys to grow up remembering the joy that decorations can bring.
2. Practice photography - I am actually very excited about this one. I have a dslr camera that I don't really know how to use, and would love to figure out how to take great pictures. And as we approach the Christmas card season, I really want to get some new photos of the boys, and of all four of us (with the help of my tripod).
3. Cook/bake with Munchkin - Munchkin is starting to be interested in what I'm cooking for dinner. As of now, he helps me fill the slow cooker and is pretty excited that he "cooked dinner". I want to continue that as well as let him help with some other things like breads, pies, cakes.
4. Read a book for fun - I know I had this one last year, but I have not been reading as much as I would like, and I'm hoping that this will give me the push I need to spend that time on myself and unwind.

Are You Ready?

While there were a few years back when I was in high school and college where it meant cheerleading, cool Saturday afternoons and pep rallies, in general football has a different meaning for my family.

Soccer.

We have a family history of playing as well as having a history of watching. While we dabble a little with the Premier League, the team that we really cheer for is the national team. This past summer, we watched our team in the World Cup, very excited that Brazil wasn't too far from us in time zones. That did not go so well for us.

Oh well, there is always 2018.

Linking up with Mama Kat

3.) Write a blog post inspired by the word: football

Wordless Wednesday: Toddler Slides

Thoughts On Staying Private in a Social Media World

This blog is currently not linked to my real name. When I first set it up, I wasn't sure where I was going to take it (and I'm still not sure where I am headed), so I didn't tell anyone I know about. Even now, only one IRL friend has ever seen this blog. But while I have so carefully tried to keep my real life separate from here, so many of the bloggers that I follow do use their real names. I am beginning to wonder if that is something that I should do as well.

We are definitely in a social media world, even more so than just a few years ago. And as life gets increasingly more public, I'm finding it hard to navigate the world that I have set up.

I am not good at Facebook. I have created a Facebook page for this blog, but I am not very good at keeping it updated and have not been able to grow it at all. I am trying to be better, but with no interaction, I am not as motivated to update. Although, I am sure that a big part of the problem is that I'm not updating.

I have also created a Google+ page because I was trying to keep my personal page separate, but now I'm not sure that was the best option. It seems that most people link to their personal page.

I'm late to the Bloglovin train, but I have signed up. I'm still working on figuring that one out.

And Twitter. I am the worst at Twitter. Mostly because I refuse to put it on my phone, since I know that I would just check it all day long, and I have children to raise.

I seem to barely have the time to use social media for personal use, I am clearly no good at using it for this blog. Part of the problem for me is that I am not always telling stories that are mine to share. Do I use my real name, and forever tie these stories to my family? I have to admit that I have been tempted, but I'm not sure that I am ready to take that step. How do you handle social media? Do you use your real name, or are you attempting to be anonymous?

Photo by Anonymous Account

The Rookie Mom Challenge Part Two: Before They're Two

Last year, Peanut and I took the Rookie Mom Challenge, and while we came no where near completing all fifty-two challenges, we did enjoy our time together. The Rookie Moms have recently posted a list of activities for before they turn two. Peanut and I have a little less than four months until that happens, and we are going to try to complete as many as possible.

Some things we have already done, such as sitting in boxes, but there are quite a few that I am looking forward to trying.

Let the fun begin.

Currently

Making: Plans for Thanksgiving Day baking
Cooking: Pasta sauce in the slow cooker.
Drinking: More water, but probably not enough.
Reading: Lots of board books, as Peanut is now very interested in reading.
Wanting: The King's Curse, but waiting to get it.
Looking: At a mess that I don't feel like cleaning up.
Playing: With lots of Mega Bloks.
Sewing: Still nothing.
Wishing: That I would win the Mega Millions.
Enjoying: The cooler weather with two outdoor boys.
Waiting: To pick Munchkin up from a birthday party.
Liking: Big smiles on little faces.
Wondering: Why my dvr keeps saying that it will record something, and then not record it.
Loving: Morning snuggles.
Hoping: That both boys keep their sense of wonder for as long as possible.
Marveling: At how LONG the boys are getting.
Needing: To unpack my cold weather shoes.
Smelling: Fallen leaves, wet from yesterday's rain.
Wearing: A sweater. It's a little chilly.
Following: The boys as they explore large piles of leaves and other autumn wonders.
Noticing: How much Peanut likes to sing and dance, be it with Mickey Mouse, or even just the radio.
Knowing: That this will be a long month with lots of posts to write.
Thinking: That I should start working on getting photos for our Christmas cards now.
Feeling: Cold, and not particularly happy that it won't be warming up again.
Bookmarking: Possible Christmas gifts.
Opening: Boxes with fall and winter clothes.
Giggling: With a silly, dancing toddler

Here We Go

I've not been at all good about posting, but I've decided to jump into the deep end of the pool and participate in NaBloPoMo. I know that we are gearing up to the busiest time of the year, but that is all the more reason to record what is going on in our lives right now, especially while the boys are still so small. We are a young family, in a new home, building new traditions. I'm hoping that writing things out will not only give me something wonderful to look back on, but will help me to focus on what matters now.

So here we go.

An Autumn Update

I've been quiet on the posting, but things have been pretty busy around here. We've been working on our fall bucket list, and while there are definitely things that we missed (I'm looking at you, decorating pumpkins), we've made some great progress.

I've already talked about picking our pumpkins, which also allowed the boys to play on the tractor. We attended a local costume parade, and the plethora of fall birthdays in Munchkin's class means that there is no shortage of costume parties.

Boo at the Zoo is happily becoming an annual tradition for us, and it allowed the boys to spend time in a hey maze, and Peanut to feed some animals (with an assist from Munchkin, who has decided that he doesn't like the animals tickling his hands).

And finally, Peter Pan and Captain Hook took some time out from trick or treating tonight to play in a very large pile of leaves.

I am really enjoying this season.

In a Sea of Orange

In the past week, we've gone pumpkin picking twice. First, while visiting my husband's grandmother, and second a little closer to home. Peanut was thrilled with both trips, and Munchkin is very much looking forward to when we carve and decorate. We are slowly, but surely, working out way through our fall list.

Linking up with Mama Kat

5.) Show us your pumpkin patch.

Into The Fall

I just found the Back to Blogging Challenge by The SITS Girls, but I loved the Day 1 challenge. I am a list maker. In the past few years I've become very digital, but I had a physical planner up to the point that it no longer fit into my diaper bag (those are stories for another time). So with this new season and fresh start, here is some of what we plan to do this autumn, in no particular order.

Pumpkin picking at the farm - This isn't something that I did growing up, but we've been doing it every year since Munchkin was born. I love it, Munchkin loves it, and now that Peanut is a little older, I'm sure that he'll love it too.

Hey rides and mazes - I think that the boys will get a kick out of this.

Carving and decorating pumpkins - We haven't really decorated pumpkins before, but now that we have a bit more room, this could be a wonderful activity for the boys.

Playing on a tractor - The farm that we usually go to pick pumpkins has tractors set up for people to play on.

Feeding animals at the petting zoo or farm - I think that Peanut would love the animals now that he is old enough to actually participate.

Boo at the Zoo - We've been doing this for a couple of years now, and it really is a fun family weekend activity.

Costume parades and parties - Our fall is filling up quickly with these Halloween-type activities

Trick or treating - Munchkin went for the first time last year, and he is definitely looking forward to going again this year.

Playing in the leaves - Both boys seem to love playing with leaves.

Baking pies - I am not a fan of cooking, but I love to bake. This is a fun season to bake in.

Family movie night - Planning on taking full advantage of our Netflix account.

Family game night - I'm almost embarrassed that we haven't done this before, but I am looking forward to getting to play with the entire family.

Making Thanksgiving desserts - Thanksgiving is my mother's holiday, and she always makes a feast. I try to bring a variety of desserts, and maybe Munchkin can "help" me with the baking this year.

What are you and your family planning on doing this fall?

Preschoolers in the Mist

Tuesday was the start of fall. A new season. A fresh start. And while things around here might no longer feel like summer, the leaves have not yet started to change, and we aren't overrun by pumpkins. Yet.

But fall is a great season to be outside. The air is a little cooler, but not so cold that everyone is bundled up to the point of not being able to move. So in fall, we spend more time outside. Eventually, we'll make it to the pumpkins, the orchards, and the yellow, orange and red trees for miles. But on Tuesday, we headed to the zoo.

And if this is what the boys think of when they think of the beginning of fall, I will not be upset.

Linking up with Mama Kat

1.) The first day of Fall is September 23rd, take a photo and share what the first day of Fall looks like in your next of the woods.

Wordless Wednesday: Breastfeeding Around Us

Feeding Baby Part 1: Breastfeeding Supplies

This post has been a long time coming, as I basically have been breastfeeding for the past fifty-one months, with the exception of the nine months I was pregnant with Peanut. As this is World Breastfeeding Week, I figure that this is as good a time as any. Here are some items that I have found the most useful, especially in the beginning.

Nursing Pillow - I personally use the Boppy, and it works great for me. I'm still using the same pillow that I got as a shower gift for Munckin, although I did get new covers this time around. We brought it to the hospital for both boys, our friends and family used it to hold the boys, both boys used it to help them learn how to sit, and of course for nursing. When Peanut first came home we would use the Boppy to help Munchkin hold him. It is definitely one of my most used baby product hands down.

Nursing Bras - Hands down my favorite brand was Bravado. Before Munchkin was born, I went to a maternity store and was fitted for nursing bras. I cannot remember what brands I ended up with, but they were just ok. I had a sleeping bra and two daytime bras, and I do not at all regret getting them, I am so glad that I went and got fitted. I don't remember when I discovered Bravado, but I was much happier once I did. I had a Body Silk Seamless and an Allure bra and I loved how they fit and how easy it was to nurse in them. Towards the end of my pregnancy with Peanut, I got the Original Nursing Bra to use for sleeping and around the house.

Nursing Cover - With Munchkin, I had a Bebe Au Lait nursing cover, and it worked for us. I was not all that comfortable, so I wasn't nursing in public all that often. If I was at someone's house, I would excuse myself to another room. We only had to use the cover a handful of times before he was just too big to tolerate it. Peanut couldn't stand the cover from the beginning, and I had much better luck just using an Aden and Anais blanket.

Shower Hug - I didn't find this in time for Munchkin, but it was a godsend with Peanut. In the early days of nursing, my nipples were so sensitive that I couldn't even stand for the water in the shower to hit them. With Munchkin, I literally held a washcloth over my breasts, but that was not even a little convenient, and didn't always work. I used this with Peanut, and it saved me. Time in the shower was so much more limited, and I didn't want to waste a second. This was worth every penny.

Breast Shells - Again, something that I don't think that I could have lived without in the early days. I personally used the Avent Comfort Breast Shells. I wore them when I was engorged around the house as well as wearing them while nursing. With Munchkin, I only had a single breast pump, and I wore it while pumping.

Nipple Cream - I didn't use this as much with Munchkin, and looking back I wish that I had. With Peanut I used Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Nipple Butter. I kept it on my nightstand and it definitely worked for me.

Breast Pads - There are a lot of options here, and I found them completely necessary for the first few months. This time I used the Avent Day and Avent Night pads. I was not completely happy that they aren't very environmentally friendly, but the convenience factor was huge for me and it was definitely worth my sanity. I considered using Bamboobies to mix into the rotation, but by the time I got around to it, I wasn't using the pads as often and it didn't seem worth it to spend the money.

Avent Breastcare Essentials Set - This was filled with great useful things, and it made a convenient place to store some other items as well. I definitely used the cold packs a lot more than I used them warm, but I was so happy to have them. And I really liked the breastpads, buying more packages to replace what I used.

Currently

Making: Lunches.
Cooking: Side dishes for the (new) barbecue dinners.
Drinking: Water, but still a little too much soda.
Reading: Nothing interesting, looking for something good (and the time to read it)
Wanting: A baby monitor so that we can be outside after the boys are in bed.
Looking: Forward.
Playing: In the backyard.
Sewing: Still nothing, still can't really sew.
Wishing: That we were all unpacked.
Enjoying: The weather, and spending a little more time outside.
Waiting: For the dryer to finish.
Liking: That both boys are thrilled with simple summer things, like playing ball and ice cream for dessert.
Wondering: When Peanut will sleep through the night.
Loving: That when one boy hugs me, the other has to as well.
Hoping: That we will be able to do all that we wanted to this summer.
Marveling: How fast this summer is going.
Needing: An outdoor table so that we can take advantage of the nice weather while it is here.
Smelling: The fresh air coming through the window.
Wearing: Shorts and a tee, seems to be my summer uniform this year.
Following: Peanut as he throws balls into bushes.
Noticing: The curl that's starting at the back of Peanut's head.
Knowing: That while there is so much to do, not all of it matters.
Thinking: That they are growing too fast.
Feeling: Tired, but happy.
Bookmarking: Activities and crafts to try to do with Munchkin.
Opening: Boxes, trying to find missing items.
Giggling: While playing on the grass.

Getting Back To Things

Before I moved, I figured that I would throw a Fourth of July barbecue/party in our new backyard. I had convinced myself that I would be completely unpacked, organized and company ready a week after moving day.

Here I am almost a month later, and we are still living out of boxes. There is so much for us to do before I feel comfortable having people over, some painting projects that didn't get finished before we moved in, some furniture that we still need, as well as the unpacking that has to be finished. I almost want to go back in time two months and laugh at myself for thinking that this would be so easy.

But life goes on, and summer has been pretty good to us. The weather has been nice, and we've been busy. Now is the time that I need to start getting back into a routine, as everything has been thrown off for a while now. I almost feel like I'm treading water, and need a fresh start to move forward. And I want to move forward before I loose this time. The boys will only be little for short while, even Munchkin is starting to seem so big to me, and I want to actually feel like I am here with them, not just around them.

What kind of changes do you make when you need fresh start?

Moving

I've been packing for what seems like forever now, but today is the big move. So I am sitting by a window waiting for the cable company to set up my internet, and my husband to bring the rest of our things. All the while trying to figure out who is going to pick up the children. Having been in our last place since before Munchkin was born, I had forgotten how much it is not fun to move. I didn't realize how miserable it was with children.

But I'm still here, and I hope that I will be fully up and running sooner rather than later.

Currently

About six months ago, I saw these posts popping up in my Feedly. While I haven't noticed them as much recently, I think that it is a very interesting idea. I'm borrowing this list from my friend Kristin.

Making: Lists. Lots of lists. To-do lists. Shopping lists.
Cooking: Very little. We are in desperate need of a grocery trip.
Drinking: Trying very hard to drink more water.
Reading: The Execution of Noa P. Singleton by Elizabeth Silver. It's pretty cool to be reading this, as I used to live with Liz years ago, which seems like another life.
Wanting: A new laptop/netbook. I really want to be able to move around while working, and my current Chromebook is dying (and considering that it was just a prototype, I'm impressed it lasted as long as it did). Not sure if I would do better with a full laptop or if another Chromebook/netbook would be enough, but either way, I'm not looking forward to being stuck at my desktop in the near future.
Looking: At a mess that I just don't want to clean.
Playing: In the playground, now that it's not so bitter cold and before it gets oppressively hot.
Sewing: Nothing right now. Nothing for the past twenty or so years. Not sure if I will be any time in the near future either.
Wishing: For time to stand still.
Enjoying: Lots of cuddles and kisses(!) from Peanut.
Waiting: For Peanut's baby babble to start changing to English.
Liking: Munchkin's occasional joy at helping out with cleaning up and laundry.
Wondering: What life, or even just the summer, holds for us.
Loving: Watching the boys play together and how much they love it.
Hoping: That Peanut starts sleeping a little longer at night, meaning that I can sleep a little longer at night.
Marveling: At the pure joy of blowing dandelions, something that I haven't done in years and Munchkin is just doing for the first time.
Needing: To get organized. We have some big changes coming up soon (including a move), and we are nowhere near ready yet.
Smelling: Spring. Fresh-cut grass, newly bloomed flowers. All the pollen in the world...
Wearing: Jeans and a t-shirt, while carrying a light sweatshirt. I love this kind of weather.
Following: Two little boys as they explore everything around them.
Noticing: That even though he's still basically bald, Peanut's hair is starting to come in. Very blond.
Knowing: That there is much to do, but time with the boys is fleeting.
Thinking: That I should head off to bed, but there is so much to do.
Feeling: So very blessed for everything that we have.
Bookmarking: Crafts to do with the boys that I'll probably never end up doing.
Opening: Random boxes and bins, trying to organize.
Giggling: Just because.

Time to Smash

This day went as quickly as it came. And while I don't know what the future may bring, as of right now Peanut is my last baby, and this was the last first cake. It was not the prettiest cake, the buttercream made from scratch, the cake from a box, but it was all his. At first he wasn't sure, but it didn't take long for him to dive in. While our family and friends enjoyed their cupcakes, Peanut went face first into his cake.

Of all the ways to spend our birthday, this small party with the focus on this cake "ceremony" was perfect.

And while technically this is the last of the Rookie Mom Challenges, I might still go back and try a few of the many that I missed.