Blogversations:

Hey guys!

You want to know dedication? Dedication is coming home late from Date Night to make a video, even though all I really wanted to do was scrub off the makeup and put on clothes that have elastic around the waist.

But, I plan on sleeping in Saturday morning while my dear husband wakes up at the crack of dawn to care for the kids, so suffer for my people (you...yes, you've become my people), I must.

A few things to keep in mind. It is really late. I ramble anyway, but I really ramble when I'm overtired. In fact I say often that I will be quick, but I don't know quick. (Notice how often Jimmy yawns during my video. Rude!) Especially at midnight. Love me anyway.

Now, that I've seen it....let me change a few things in writing. This was already my second take, as Jimmy announced. In my defense, I had to redo it in hopes that I could make it shorter, but in fact, it ended up longer. So, I called it a night.

Plus, in the first video, his three things to describe me were, "Funny, Loving, Fun."

What the heck? He didn't say beautiful?!?

Funny, Loving, Fun?!?

Geez, he may as well have said, "You have a great personality."

Okay, so first for some of the questions I didn't get to:

If I had a million dollars what would I do with it? Thanks Sera! I would buy a house, then hire a nanny, housecleaner and a personal chef. And they'd all be full time, live in pals. Jimmy says a million dollars doesn't go that far, but I don't believe him. Anyway, it's my dream.

What is my favorite pampering treatment? Again, thanks Sera. Okay, so with the rest of the million dollars I have left, I would love to have weekly (or daily) massages. I. Love. Them. Also, no matter what our financial state, I cannot live without my hair appointments. They are incredibly sacred. So much in fact that I had a sit down talk with Jimmy before we got married, to let him know that my hair appointments were non negotiable. No Matter What. He agreed, so we we got married. Simple as that.

Lastly, I want to change one answer. If I had to work outside the home, (which is sounding better and better these days) I'd want to host The Soup with Joel McHale. With him, not in place of.

OR, I could be a Karaoke Host. Then when I hog the m-i-c all night, I won't get dirty looks from the peeps in the audience. You know, because I'm getting paid the big bucks to keep the party rolling.

Okay then...enough about me. What's up with you? (And by you, I mean, all three of you....unless, there just so happens to be more brave souls who want to join in!)

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

Don't catch on fire:

We've all heard the story about the child in the emergency room because she had licked her hands that had hand sanitizer with alcohol in it. Right? Even if it's not true, there is some truth in that alcohol is not good to be putting on our kids let alone our own hands. Did you know that alcohol dries out your hands? That it makes you skin age? Do you really think we need that?!?

Do I hear a resounding NO?!?

As if those reasons aren't enough, let me just scare you by saying that alcohol can catch fire when exposed to flames. Now, did you know that?!?

Okay, so to be honest. Even knowing what I know, I've still been using the stuff. I just get too grossed out by public bathroom germs and such. And especially with a newborn and a toddler, I keep that stuff glued to my 3 years old hands much too often.

I was so relieved when Mom Fuse allowed me the opportunity to try Remi-D.

Remi-D is an all-natural hand sanitizing product BUT without the Alcohol, Triclosan and Parabens. (I actually don't really know what that means, I'm just guessing by the sound of it, they aren't good!) The only thing Remi-D does to your hands is clean them. Cool huh? And instead of it being a liquid goop that comes out, it's a spray. You just spritz spritz, and off you go. And you know I'm all about making you people smell better, so of course, it has a light subtle cucumber-y smell.

As always, let me share with you where to find this awesome product:

Remi-D hand sanitizing products are available at fine drug and food stores. Including:
A&P
Pathmark
Waldbaums
The Food Emporium
Food Basics
Super Fresh
Hannaford
ShopRite
Market Basket
P&C
Quality Markets
Big Y
Kinney Drug
CVS.com

Cheers to not catching on fire and toddlers not getting sick.


© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

too legit - it's how i roll

When I started my blog, I had no idea that I would ever have people who would read it. I mean, I thought those near and dear to me might peek in once in awhile, but I never imagined it would become what it is now. In fact, only a small few of the people I know actually read this, while most of my readers are complete strangers. (By strangers I mean, I've never met you, though a lot of you I feel I know well.)

Anyway, my goal in starting Le Musings was to get back into my love of writing. I wanted to gain experience, to challenge myself to be creative, and to do something that was just for me that made me feel complete. (writing, you complete me.)

Along the way, I picked up readers. And I was so excited. Then I started getting followers which makes my days brighter when I get a new one, and sadder when one goes away. Oh, the roller coaster of the blogging life.

As life goes on, things change, and I have to learn how to change with them. There is a little struggle now, a delicate balance I am learning. My goal for this blog is and will always remain the same, so how do I adjust to continue to make it work for everyone?

Now that I have readers, it's no longer just about me. Rather than simply writing for my own personal growth, I have this increasing desire to help others grow as well. (Or to help them learn, or laugh, or decorate, or shop, or dress, or especially to help you all smell better....) The point is, I'm no longer alone on this journey. And I love that. Bring it on.

So, now that we've had that moment together and all good feelings are established, I just wanted to be clear about something.

As many bloggers are, I've been contacted by numerous PR reps asking me to review their products. I was quite excited, because it not only gave me a chance to try or read new things, but more importantly, it was a welcomed challenge that stretched my comfort zone of writing.

Suddenly, big dreams of become an ad writer filled my head. (Picture Lynette Scavo from Desperate Housewives...but longer hair and less kids. And not nearly as skinny...and of course a whole lot funnier.)

I guess I want to be clear that I am not selling out. My standards are high, and I would never accept any review assignment that wasn't something I found relevant to either my life or to the lives of my readers. Another thing I want to be clear on, is that you have my word that I will always be honest. If I don't like something, you will know. If it's, "eh," you will know. If I love it, then I will file it among the posts I did long before PR reps, posts titled: "Things I Love." (*edited to add* And by the way, I only plan on doing one review a week, two at most.)

I'm not even sure any of you care, but I felt it on my heart to be honest.

When it all comes down to it, my love is writing. And it has always been my dream to be able to explore many different avenues of that passion. But, as with all things in my life, I will always do so with the utmost integrity and honesty.

Because that is just how I roll.

Enough said.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

an angel on earth

When I read the option from Mama Kat to write about what made your childhood bearable, my eyes immediately welled up with tears.

What made my childhood bearable could only be Norma and her home. (In the picture above: Me, Norma, and my little sister Brittany on Mother's Day at her house.)

I honestly cannot imagine my childhood without her. I cannot even begin to imagine the kind of person I would be today had she not been in my life.

Norma was our neighbor who lived across the alley. She was married to the sweetest man, Mr. H, as she called him. They are absolutely the most incredible people I have ever known, and what they added to my life, I will never really be able to put into words. I will never be able to completely honor them the way they deserve.

When I was little I would go over to her house several times a week. She would always welcome me in, no matter what she was doing. If she was was busy with laundry, I'd want to help clean the vent. If she was working, she'd let me pretend to be her secretary. She was never too busy for me, and I always knew it was her home I could go to when I needed to feel wanted.

My favorite memories were the times she would invite her friends over from church. She would pull out the Skip Bo cards, Hostess Ding Dongs, and soda. Then, we'd all sit around her kitchen table and I'd get to play cards with the ladies. It was always fun, always full of lightness and laughter. The best part was that the winner would get an extra treat, so it became my mission to win every time. (And I did most of the time too! What I'll do for chocolate, even back then.)

But, what really made me feel special, was the fact that they treated me like I was one of them.

Going to her house was the highlight of my days.

In fact, Norma became like another mom to me. Her home was my safe place, especially during the times when my family life began to fall apart.

When my sister and I would get into a punch out/drag out fight, (we're hard core I tell you), I would run over to Norma's.

And when I would lose the fight (which was often) and I'd find myself locked out of my house in the rain wearing only socks, it was Norma's house I padded over to. (Okay, so to be fair, this only happened once. The socks part, not the losing the fight part.)

When I was listening to my parents fight, and I was sobbing tears from a broken heart, Norma's door was open. There was always a Skip-Bo game, a soda, and a ding dong waiting for me. More importantly, she always had a warm hug, a meaningful word, and the perfect prayer to offer to God on my behalf.

I had grown up going to church, but when my parents divorced, my mom was really hurt. So, we stopped going together as a family. Norma stepped in, and every Wednesday and Sunday she would pick me up and take me to church with her.

When I became a teenager and I was fighting with my mom over phone time and boys, I would run to Norma. She always listened, always cared. She didn't always take my side, but she definitely had a way about her that would help me to see it from another perspective. So many times, she was the mediator between my mom and I, and I can only thank her for helping to bridge that gap I felt with my mom over the years.

When I graduated High School and moved to Idaho for a boy only to get there and be cheated on, it was Norma who sent me a 5 page letter giving me hope and encouragement in order to help me through the pain.

When I went on mission trips to Mexico & The Dominican Republic, Norma and Jay (Mr. H) were the first to offer financial assistance.

I went through a lot in all the years I lived in Bremerton, and I honestly believe I wouldn't have made it through if I hadn't had her love, her devotion, her wisdom, her guidance, and most importantly her prayers in my life.

She saved me from myself. And I'm a much better person because of her.

My greatest hope is that I can be to just one person what she was to me.

Selfless, loving, giving, caring, open, honest, generous, patient, kind...

These words are Norma.

And Norma is what made my childhood bearable.

(I know this is long for a blog post, but I couldn't skimp on words for her!)

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

details, details (contest & blogversations)

Okay guys, here's the deal. I've made the executive decision that Blogversations will be a Free Day on the last Saturday of the month. Basically, talk (or show pictures) of whatever you so desire. (Mama Kat & Kimmy, I'm talking to you.) ;-) Yaya, you in? Katie? Come on girls! Show us you in all your glorious glory.

I was actually thinking of doing a Q&A for my video Saturday...so if you guys have anything you've been dying to know, leave them in the comments and I'll answer them Saturday. And if I don't get any questions, then I will simply assume that I've been divulging much to much information about myself on here, and then I'll be forced to tone it down a notch.

Also, I just added into the Care Package Giveaway a Gift Certificate for Chili's. Yum yum. They have this new Guiltless Grill menu thats healthy and delicious, that I LOVE, so now you get the chance to try it out too!

So, now with clean skin, you can wear your new lip gloss, with your new jewelry, and beautifully painted nails, and head out for dinner on the town. Could this giveaway get any better?!?

Coming up in March I have some more awesome giveaways! In fact it looks like I may have one every week for the whole month. We're talking skin care, foot care, books, and more!

And I didn't think I was the giveaway kind of girl. Ha!

In other important fashion news, I saw these on Cupcakes & Cashmere today, and I decided I need them.

Okay, so excuse me while I drool over these for a bit.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

what I learned from the real housewives of the o.c.

The last episode was too much.

And since I wasted many hours of my life watching it, I feel as though there should be a lesson in there somewhere. Here's what I took away from the series.

*If you get your day in the spotlight, i.e. reality t.v., suddenly you are qualified to create a skin care line, become a singer even though you can't sing, or design jewelry for Saks.

*Every thing you see is fake, unless it's something that isn't a body part.

*Husband's purchase big pricey items, and then only choose to give that present conveniently when the cameras are around.

*You can't be sweet and give thoughtful (expensive) Coach wristlets without nasty ladies thinking there is something backstabbing behind it.

*Vickie is awful. I hate when people on T.V. claim they are christians and then act as she does. It gives Christians a really bad rap. She is flirting with other men IN FRONT OF HER HUSBAND, talking mean in front of and behind the backs of the other girls, degrating her husband in front of others. Cussing, drinking, being awful....and yet she doesn't believe in pre marital sex.

Huh?!?

And did anybody almost roll their eye balls out of their sockets when she put Gretchen down for being an attention stealer, yet proceeded to show every person near her the new Rolex she bought herself? Not only did she have to actually say, "I bought this for myself." But she had to say it, again, in front of her husband.

Honey, let me tell you why your "love tank" aint full....

*Anyway, I decided that Jeana is sad, but the most with it of all the ladies. And I really like Laurie. Despite her plasticy-ness.

*And what was up with Jo's hair? She really did look like she was 12.

My goodness, I'm realizing just how sad this post is. I guess if that's all I learned from the show, then maybe I shouldn't be watching it. Good thing it was the last season.

Time to see what the NY ladies are up to.

Can I just say I'm glad I'm not a part of "upper class" society? I don't think I'd fit in very well with my certain small natural body parts, and my fake MJ bag.

Just a thought.

P.S. Jay & Dan - Hope you enjoyed the pictures. They were especially for you.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

chloe hope

I feel it's only fair, since my first Tuesday Tribute was to Taylor, that I should also acknowledge the girl in my life as well.

And let me just preface this by saying that my experience with Tay was the direct opposite of my experience with Chloe. You know, I just honestly believe, God is fair.

So, don't hate me. I deserved this.

Let me be clear that I DID NOT want to have a girl. Even with Taylor being as "energetic" (read: incredibly hard) as he is, it still seemed better than having a little high maitenance "me" running around.

But then I had Chloe. And instantly Chloe gave me hope. So we named her, Chloe Hope.

From the moment she was placed on my chest, she was calm and serene. She simply stared into my eyes, and from that moment she immediately stole my heart.

But then, it only got better. Incredible, magical things began to happen. All of which, I promise, were beyond my control.

The first night in the hospital she went 4 hours between feedings! We never heard her cry. She just opened her eyes, made a noise, and we would know it was time to feed her.

Oh, how I loved her.

So, we brought her home and she continued to sleep 4 hours, sometimes 5.

Incredibly, that feeling of love grew even more!

At one month, she was smiling. At a month a half, she was laughing. And all the while, the sleeping continued.

Deep deep love.

Two months came, and don't throw eggs at my house, but she was sleeping 12 hours every night!

It was then that her name came to fruition. It was especially then that I knew I was meant to have a girl.

It was then that I was so in love that I knew nothing would ever change the way I felt for her.

Now, I know, that come 10 years things will most likely change and the pain and suffering I caused my mom, will turn around and bite me in my butt. But, (no pun intended), I feel that this is a good beginning.

God gave me me this incredible beginning, so that we could establish such an incredible bond, such a deep love, that it would survive even the teenager years.

(Does this mean that Taylor will be an angel once puberty hits? Awesome!)

Anyway, I adore Chloe. She has such a sweet smile, such a sweet face, and such a sweet spirit. I'm honored to be her mom.

And I thought I didn't want a girl. I guess this proves, that while MOST of the time (especially when it comes to my husband) I am right, when it comes to gifts from God, He really does know best.

She has completed our family in such a perfect way.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

breastfeeding & resolutions

Okay, so every once in awhile I get a wild hair up my butt to write an article for Associated Content.

Here are two I wanted to share with you guys...

And of course I'd love to hear your feedback! (the good stuff of course!)

This one is one I wrote with a neighbor friend of mine. Our goal is to meet once a week so we can write more. Here's our first attempt.

Why Breastfeeding Can Just Suck It

And then here's one that I wrote myself about keeping your New Years Resolutions:

Tips to Keep Your New Years Resolutions

So there ya go. Check em out and have a Happy Monday!

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

blogversations

Hey guys!

Okay, so I'm not feeling all that great. My throat hurts from all the yelling I did at my HurryDate event that I hosted last night. So, I'm not too fun much this week. In fact, I couldn't even bear to watch the video back to make sure it looked ok. So, I hope it's not too bad.

Anyway, this week, it's all about the discipline. For yourself, your child/ren, your husband, your pets...whatever. Just give us the low down on what's been working for ya.

Also, I'd love to hear your ideas for future Blogversations. I am going to start a list so any ideas or suggestions you have would be just awesome.

And now without further audieu:

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

never say never

Bear with me, I'm about to go deep. (It happens from time to time...gotta mix it up!)

But, I have just really been struck by the fact that so many of us think certain things will "never" happen to us.

We'll never lose a baby.

We'll never lose our home.

We'll never do what "that" mom/dad does. Or what "that" wife/husband did.

We'll never be married to "that" kind of a husband/wife.

It goes on and on and on.

And so we take life for granted, we judge, and we point fingers.

And yet, it is quite likely that the very thing we're saying never about, may just touch our lives at some point. We may actually one day be that mom, wife, husband, dad....and not even realize how we got there.

Things happen. They just do. Bad things happen to good people. Good people make bad mistakes. It's life. And not one of us is exempt from "it" happening.

Basically I've learned to never say never.

I guess the lesson I'm learning is that rather than being naive to it, I should instead always be on guard, always be aware, and always love like today's my last chance to do so.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

a little of this and little of that

Let me just preface this post with something:

This "hard core" diet is not fun. No no no. I've made it three days, but I'm not too sure about tomorrow. I might just die another day.

Anyway, now that you know the diet is no fun, therefore making me no fun, then you'll better understand if this isn't my best writing assignment ever.

Although, with my kind of talent, even on a tired day, it very well could be the best. You just never know with me.

So here are the prompts:

1.) If you were starring on American Idol TONIGHT and HAD to sing, what song would you choose and why:

Jolene. I sang it to Jimmy at my Karaoke birthday party (Brooke Style), and he had googly eyes for me. He said I sounded amazing. And I believed him. So, I think if I sang it on American Idol I might just take the night away.

2.) Take a picture of yourself right this minute without primping and explain to us why it is you have not washed your hair today.

I only wash my hair every other day so as to preserve the integrity of my hair. Today is the no wash day. But, I did use the Surfer Girl spray and I think it hides the stench quite well. =) Kidding. I smell lovely.

3.) I just asked Pat to help me with a writing prompt so here's his: "What do you think about the NBA All Star game"...blech.

All I have to say about anything NBA is that once when I was dating a guy who got me into the Lakers, I dreamt of Shaq. We made friends and we walked and talked. I gave him advice on plays and he gave me the seating chart for the stadium and told me I could have his section and bring my friends to the next game. Then I walked him to the bus of waiting Lakers players and we said goodbye. When I woke up, I was thinking of who I was going to invite. Took awhile to realize it was a dream. In fact, I still feel I know him quite well.

4.) What's your number one pet peeve? Develop a punishment for anyone caught in the act.

Whining. Punishment is a sign around the neck saying, "Free to good home." And then said child placed on the corner. But, of course, my child doesn't whine, so I'm certainly not talking about him.

5.) Write about something mean you did to a sibling growing up.

Mean is making a 5 year old little sister wear diapers while playing house and then standing in front of the bathroom and laughing and saying, "No, you're the baby. You have to go in your diaper!" Meanwhile that 5 year old is crying and saying, "But, I don't want to play anymore." Two older sisters beat out one, so I had no choice but to pee in the diaper.

They claim not to remember, but I'm thinking the therapy bills I'll be forwarding to them will help trigger something!

(Love you Heather & Malia. Here's to suppressed memories!)

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

blogversation topic and other stuff

Okay, so I will do my best to let you guys know on Wednesday's what the Blogversation topic will be.

This week we're moving away from, I'll Show You Mine if You Show Me Yours. And instead, we'll just have topics.

This time it's all about something we're desperate to know.

Discipline. What Works For You?

It can be related to your dog, your children, your husband...yourself...whatever. Just tell us what works. So we can all learn.

So there's that.

Also, I'm waiting on a few more things for The Care Package Giveaway, so I am extending the giveaway for one more week.

And finally, tomorrow I'm guest blogging for Tiffany from SITS...If you get a chance go over and check it out. You will be ever so inspired for doing so.

***Edited to Add: I just realized that I was supposed to guest post Tuesday, not Thursday!!! Oh my brain. This is why a girl should not go "hard core" in her eating ways. My mind is gone. I have failed at guest blogging. But, I posted anyway, and javascript:void(0)tomorrow Tattooed Minivan Mom will be taking it away.***

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

things i love: surfer girl hair

I think I've established now that I'm very into hair. (Hair, not heads. Let's be clear.) I'm a beauty school expert. Only I quit months before graduation. I wanted to be a mom instead...Aw, the innocent dreams of the young.

So far, in my hair reviews, I haven't steered any of you wrong...right?

I'm always on the lookout for new products that not just smell amazing but work as well. One of the things I've been looking for lately is a really good gel or mousse to help with my ever confused hair.

My hair doesn't want to be straight and it doesn't want to be curly. And it's the kind of middle of the road hair that doesn't look good when air dried. I either have to flat iron it for a silky smooth look or scrunch the heck out of it to create some wave. The problem is I haven't been able to find anything that helps form super cute wave AND keeps it that way for the entire day.

So when Mom Fuse sent me J Life Surf Girl Sea Salt Spray ($16), I was a skeptic from the beginning. In fact, I even told them that I most likely wasn't going to be a fan, and they told me it was okay, to just be honest...

So, this morning after washing my hair, I brushed it out and parted it down the middle. Then I got out the spray and started going to town. Once I felt I had thoroughly drenched my hair in it, I flipped my hair upside down and started scrunching. Once that was done, I decided to take a bunch of small pieces and twist them as the directions suggested. Then I went to put on my makeup and get dressed, while I allowed my hair to dry.

Here's what it looked like about 20 minutes after applying the product:

I went to church, and I actually got a few compliments on my hair! But, the real test was seeing if it made it through the day, the entire day! About 10 hours later, I took another picture. And honestly, I liked my hair even more the longer I had the product in! The waves stayed soft and touchable, and the nice thing is tomorrow I can just spritz some more in, and go along with my day.

I think I may have found the match made in heaven for my confused hair. I guess it pays to move out of the norm and try something different every once in awhile.

Okay, so now you want it right? If so, you can find it at salons or online here. They have so many products to choose from, that I'm sure if this isn't the one for you, you will have no problem finding the one that is.

Happy Hair Days to You!

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

princess and the pill

Once upon a time there was a princess who loved soft sheets. Soft silky high thread count sheets, but they would have to be single ply, and stay soft and silky their whole life through. And since her favorite pair had died a slow death ultimately ending in a horrible tear, she had to set out to find the ones who could be next real thing.

She traveled all over her city, from Linens and Things to Tuesday Mornings, but nowhere could she find what she wanted. There were sheets all right, but it was difficult to see if they were the real ones. There was always something about them that was not as they should be. Wash after wash, what was seemingly the perfect sheet would slowly build up pill after pill. And because she was a true princess, she could feel these pills, even though a commoner may not.

Every morning her prince would ask how she had slept.

“Oh, very badly!” said she. “I have scarcely closed my eyes all night. Heaven only knows what was on the sheets, but I was lying on something so scratchy, so that I am red and raw all over my body. It’s horrible!”

And by this prince was always reminded that he had indeed married a high maintenance princess.

So time and time again, the princess would have to return sheet set after sheet set.

At last she came home and she was sad, for she very much wanted to sleep in soft silky sheets again. Sheets that no matter how many times they were washed and slept on, would remain silky as new.

One evening a terrible storm came on; there was thunder and lightning, and the rain poured down in torrents. The homebound princess found herself online and the website of Costco opened up.

Sheets were before her. Glorious well reviewed sheets. But, good gracious, what a sight Costco made them seem. Costco claimed they were real "high quality, high thread count sheets," but could she possibly purchase a sheet set she couldn't even touch first? Would she dare?

With blind trust, she entered her credit card and patiently awaited the new sheets.

On the day they came, the princess thought, "I'll soon find out...." and she said nothing and went to put them to the test. She washed them several times over. And a month went by, and another month, and there were no pills.

The princess was sleeping well. Her sheets no longer exfoliated her bare body.

And the princess knew they were the real thing. So, she took the sheets and loved them and married them. And never again would she buy another set of sheets again.

So she took the old pilly sheets and put them in the garbage, where they may still be seen. If nobody has stolen them.

There, that is a true story.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

going hard "core"

Core would mean Core from Weight Watchers. But, no, I'm not actually doing Weight Watchers.

I am though, taking a cue from the Core diet and doing something of the same just for this week, Mon - Fri. I think I may die, but what the heck. I think it will be good for me.

I have never in my life attempted something like this. So, it should be interesting.

Starting today, I will simply be eating lean protein, vegetables and fruit. It's sort of a cleanse, but mostly to recover from all the insane amounts of chocolates I ate over the weekend. I need to clean up and start over.

I'm such a picky eater that I hope I can make it through. So, if anybody has any yummy recipies or ideas on what I should eat, I would love to hear them. Oh, you should also know I don't cook. So, it has to be easy.

And I'm still a virgin with the blender, but I may whip that out this week to attempt a smoothie. Shoot, how do you even make a smoothie? Anyone, anyone?

Here goes...cheers to being healthy. Hope I'm happy as well.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

care package giveaway

So, I know, I teased you all a little and said I was going to be doing another giveaway. And I am.

This time it truly is a gift from my own pocket just for you dear readers. And if you knew how much I despise going to the post office, this gift would mean even more to you.

So, it's a care package. A care package with two items from the Origins skin care line, Victorias Secret lip gloss, Forever 21 jewelry, Nubar Nail Polish (review on this to come!), an adorable Mark headband and much much more. I say much much more because I still have a few things left to purchase, which I'll announce as soon as I get them.

Again, this is just to say thanks for reading, commenting, and most of all for supporting me.

So, how do you enter?

One entry: You're a follower.

Another entry: You have my button on your blog.

Another entry: You blog about my contest.

Yet another entry: You leave a comment telling me which is your favorite post of mine and why. And no cheating! It can't be this one!!! ;-) Slackers.

And yet another entry: You participate in next Saturday's Blogversations.

You must leave an individual comment for each entry.

Contest ends at 11:59 pm Saturday Feb 28th. I will choose the winner the following Monday via video.

Happy contesting!

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

need a break from your child, husband, pets or housecleaning?

And now a word from our sponsors....

Thanks to Mom Fuse, I've been turned on to this awesome website, Care.com.

Care.com helps families like yours in communities all across the country find trustworthy caregivers -- for child care (including care for children with special needs), senior care, pet care, tutoring, and housekeeping.

The awesome thing about this website is that with the Premium Membership, you are granted access to any providers resume and a background check! As we've been searching for a babysitter and a new housecleaner...(my Tiffany bracelet went missing after my last housecleaner was here!!!), that is definitely a high priority for me.

I have also really been appreciating the articles they have on there as well. With any search from Child Care to Elderly Care and everything in between, there are several article links that have a ton of helpful and useful information relevant to your search.

And if you don't find what you're looking for or want a quicker way, there's even a section for you to post the type of help or care you are seeking.

Not looking for a provider but instead want to be one? Well now, there's a whole section for you as well!

I mean, come on....we all need a break from someone or something in our life! Why not pay someone else to take care of it for a day (week, month, year....!

So, go check it out!

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

i'll show you mine, if you show me yours!

Welcome to Blogversations: I'll Show You Mine if You Show Me Yours

Today's video topic is, Your Favorite Room.

I'll Show You Mine:

Now You Show Me Yours:

Happy Valentines Day!

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

first post or something close

Ready to go back in time with me?

Here's one of my very first posts back when I was starting my blog. It's all a part of Deb's First Post Friday, but since my first post is mostly an introduction, I thought I'd go to the first real post that involved thought out writing and that wasn't poetry. Although, I was torn between the post below and this poem, which is special to me especially because of the one comment it received.

Okay, so you can click here for the original post, or read if you're feeling lazy, just read below:

Definition of Acceptance:

*toleration, acceptance, sufferance

*a disposition to tolerate or accept people or situations*

Definition of Grace:

*The exercise of love, kindness, mercy, favor; disposition to benefit or serve another; favor bestowed or privilege conferred.

You know how sometimes the same word keeps popping up in conversations or in the things you're reading or suddenly there just basically seems to be a theme to your week/month/year?

That's how my last week has been with "Acceptance."

I've noticed that it's so easy to look at everyone else and find what's wrong in them. We can easily see what needs fixing and how they can better themselves and their lives. And frankly, many of us, given the chance, would jump at the offer to extend our opinions if only we knew they would listen. But, what we don't realize is that they aren't us. And we aren't them. We can never fully understand all the dynamics that make that person who they are. Only God really knows all of that, and only God can really change them. But the tough part is it's only when He's ready and more importantly when THEY are ready to change.

I learned this somewhat in my relationship with my dad. He was an amazing man, but he definitely had issues. (Don't we all???) For so long I was constantly disappointed with and in him because he wasn't acting or doing what I thought he should be. I don't know that I would call it judgement, but I just felt I knew there was a better way. I couldn't understand for the life of me why he just didn't make different choices, or better yet, ask me what I thought he should do. ;-) At some point though, something changed in me. I realized he was who he was. And it was really up to me. I could make one of two choices. Either love him and accept where he was in his life, or let him go. It wasn't easy, and it broke my heart sometimes, but I choose the first. I didn't want to lose him and the value he added to my life simply because he wasn't living up to my expectations.

Since my dad passed away I've had plenty of other opportunities to practice this lesson over and over again. Sometimes I think I do well, but often I seem to fail. I guess the Lord must want me to be working on it even more so right now because it keeps coming up.

I know that I am so far from perfect. God still (very obvious to most) has a lot of work and growing to do in me and my life. I make mistakes, I hurt people when I don't mean to, I can be selfish...on and on the list can go. But, I also know that I desire to be better. I want to grow. I am totally open and willing to allow God to work in and through me so that I can be the person he intended me to be. But, in the meantime, I want those in my life and those who will come into my life, to love me despite the blaring faults. I want to be loved right where I am in my process of life. And if I want that for myself, I need to be sure that I am extending that same grace (isn't that what acceptance is?) to others.

Loving others where they are.

Allowing God to work in them they way He has planned, no matter how long the journey seems to be taking.

Always searching for the good in people rather than focusing on the bad.

Having hope, but setting boundaries.

Knowing that most people are doing the best they can.

When we can do these things, we will be able to enjoy relationships so much more. We will be able to finally see the person as God sees them. And we can take all those judgements and toss them out the door.

And so far, thats where I am in this whole learning process. Guess I should get going and start practicing...

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

it's kind of like holy water

Many of you know, I'm a lover and a giver. Especially when it comes to Formula. And in making Chloe her drinkie drink, I try to mix the potent powder with only the best water I can find. I've recently been using the PUR Water filter, and have been blissfully happy with it.

Until Mom Fuse brought Zero water into my life.

Though it's a bit more ($39.99 for the pitcher and one filter) than the cost of the Brita or the Pur (Each around $25), for me, for my Chloe, it's definitely worth it.

Why am I so hooked?

Well first of all, it tastes so clean and so crisp and so...healthy. I think it's as close to Holy Water that you can find. But, what really sold me was the TDS Meter (total dissolved solids) that came along with the purifier. This meter shows the amount of dissolved substances in parts per million in the water we drink.

Zero is completely pure. 500 is the maximum that FDA approves.

My husband and I set out to experiment. Tap water? 655! Ew!

Our Pur Water? 349...

Our Zero water? Um, zero. Ya, awesome.

Really, that was all I needed.

Now being the researcher I am, I have been online reading other reviews as well. Some absolutely love it, some are put off by the price, and then there are some that complain about a funky mildew odor after some extended time of use.

So far, I haven't had any issues. Although in this economy, I know cost can definitely be an issue. And if you don't mind solids in your water, then pay less and drink away.

But, if you want solid-less water, then this is definitely the filter to try. Have more questions, click here for the FAQ page. Want to know where to buy it? Target, Walmart, Walgreens, and Home Depot.

***Okay, so it's been another month now, and now we get the whole funky mildew thing.  The filter seems to last only two or three weeks, and then something sour happens.  It's yuk.  But, on the happy side...at least for those two or three weeks you get utterly pure water.  =)***

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

raindrops on roses & whiskers on kittens:

Besides etsy, my new purse, my reusable bags, and my up and coming You Tube career, here are 5 more of my recent favorite people, places, and things:

Dr. Brandt Lineless Collection:

Oh how I wish I could afford this skin care. I'm doing my best to save up, but in the meantime, I'll let you in on my secret. Sephora skin care samples. I have a lot. I almost feel guilty for how much I have collected over time. But not guilty enough to stop. You see, I'm in love. And we belong together. Actually last weekend I did use my Sephora gift card to buy the travel size set of the Lineless collection, but I have yet to use it since I still have my samples to get me through. I realize this may make me sound weird. But at the rate my followers are dropping, what do I have to lose?

(It's them not me, right? Right?!? Why'd they have to invent that dumb "follower" icon anyway? I was happier living in ignorant bliss, so sure that millions were reading and loving and adoring. Maybe I should go back to that.)

Jamal & Danny:

I have developed quite a crush on these guys. They are so adorable and they have incredible voices. I'm so relieved that Danny made it through, but I have quite a beef with American Idol for letting Jamal walk away. How retarded are they? I mean, they let "Norman" and that crying emo guy with all the peircings through?!? Are you even kidding me right now? Let me just be clear, I will only continue to watch as long as Danny is on. If he ever leaves, so shall I. In fact, I feel quite strongly about that. And yes, I do have a life. It just revolves around reality tv.

Sober House:

I'm still a few episodes behind, but I am totally addicted to this show. It's so awesome. The reality! The drama! The crazy people! I will never ever again think that I have issues now that I've seen Steven Adler. Seriously. That guy is nuts. But Rodney King? I'm definitely pulling for him to make it through. He just HAS to stay sober. For me. For you! For the people. Gosh darn it, for AMERICA!

P90X:

I really miss my gym. Even more so, I miss my gym's childcare. I miss the hour and a half to two hours I had to myself. And until Chloe turns 6 months, I have had to find something else to do in the meantime. Plus, my annual girls Vegas trip is in two months and I have to get bikini ready! So, that's where P90X came in. It's a serious commitment. Quite possibly even more so than marriage. It's six days a week, and at least, if not more than an hour every day. You absolutely have to "BRING IT!" Because it's time to get "X'd!" Though, it's all good because it's "X-cellent!" (Direct quotes from the videos.) I'm hanging in there. I'm halfway through 2 of the 4 phases and I'm definitely seeing some improvement. Although, I would most likely be seeing more results had I just not inhaled close to 1000 calories of Valentines Day chocolate. Dang it! Bikini ready, bikini ready....

Hot Chocolate Talk w/God:

I am NOT a morning person. I don't do well with those. Not now. Or ever. But, lately I've been getting up almost every morning at 5:20 am. Jimmy gets up a little before me and makes me a cup of hot chocolate. (I don't drink coffee). Then he comes in ever so sweetly to wake me up. It's actually been nice because I come downstairs and just turn on one lamp and light some candles in the living room. Then I pull out my bible and a notebook and I spend 30 minutes just reading and praying in the silence. Although, it's an adjustment to wake up that early, it's awesome how much better my days are by doing this. On those days, I'm more calm and centered and I have butt loads of patience, well at least more so than I usually do. Which, truth be told, is none most days, so "some" patience would equal "butt loads." Although, I haven't quite mastered making this a daily habit, I would say 4 of the 7 days I follow through. And when I do manage to get up, I am always thankful I did.

And, on that note, tomorrow is one of those mornings. So, I'm heading to bed. Only I'm not tired, because of the half a bag of chocolate pumping through my veins.

How I envy you skinny people who can eat whatever you want. It's just, NOT fair!

I'm getting sidetracked.

Goodnight.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

blog stuff you definitely need to know

...a few things here, and luckily I love you enough to share it all with you. Now get out your pen and paper and take some notes.

First of all, let me talk about how I really really want to reply to your comments through my email....but so many of you aren't getting them. Instead, no-reply@blogger.com is getting them, hence all this time you may have been feeling unloved. And I just can't have that. I'm a lover. And when there happens to be some feeling unloved by moi, then I feel sad. And we definitely definitely can't have that.

So, here's what you need to know.

From Sits:

The first thing you need to do is open an email account just for your blog. It's free to do through Yahoo, Gmail, or Hotmail. Easy Peasy. Why open an email account just for your blog? Well, it's kind of nice to keep it separate from your personal email account. This is your blog and if people are reading it, you need to treat it a little like a business. It's not a "have to", it's just a suggestion. 

Now, go into your profile page and choose "edit your profile". Check the box that says "show my email address". Then, on that same page under Identity, type in your email where it says "Email address".  What happens is when you leave someone a comment and blogger puts your comment into THEIR email account, all they have to do is hit reply and they can send a response into YOUR email account. Sometimes it's nice to reply to someone's comment specifically instead of going to their blog and leaving them a random comment to a question they might have asked on your blog.

Okay got that? Now, I can actually reply to your comments that I've so come to depend on.

Next, you need to know that next week will be another giveaway AND I will guest blogging at Tiffany's (from SITS) blog on Thursday. It just may be my best blog....EVER!!! Cause you know, only the best for Tiffany.

So, okay then, that about covers it for today.

Lesson over.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

my blog roll, part one

I want to highlight some of the blogs that I read and let you know just why I love them. If you want my favorite fashion blogs, click here.

Laughing Through the Chaos: Sera is so sweet and incredibly funny. There's nothing off limits with her. And it's refreshing to read her stuff, because it just goes to show you're never alone in anything! She's also amazing at leaving comments, (hint hint), and she always makes me feel loved.

Made by Girl: Jennifer is an amazing artist and she has the cutest stuff on her blog and her etsy shop. That Love Print I showed on my ode to etsy is one of hers.

Oh My God, I'm a Mom: This mom cracks me up. I have a thing for honest moms who are able to share the trials of motherhood and somehow manage to make it funny. She absolutely does that. I love it. I have yet to read a post I didn't like. Plus, I think we live in the same town, and that makes her even more awesome.

Sippy Cup Chardonnay: Ahhh, Rachel. My old neighbor and one of my favorite friends. It was because of her family blog that I even began blogging myself. Not only is she one of the sweetest people I know, but she's also an incredible writer.

"Deal"icious Mom: I found this blog through Entrecard, and she's my go to girl for all my deals and steals. I have been able to get a lot of awesome FREE magazine subscriptions, toothpastes, reusable bags....and so much more. This is one you totally need to follow.

LuLu & Moxley: I just happened upon this blog a couple of weeks ago, and I actually was laughing out loud while I was reading it. Although she's a mother of twins, most of her blog is snarky talk about reality tv and celebrities. And we all know just how much I love both of those! In fact, I think she might just be my blogging soul mate.

Baby on Bored: An author and blogger, she is another mom who takes motherhood trauma and makes it funny. I love her bluntness and honesty. It's refreshing. And of course, what awesome blog wouldn't be complete if she didn't also follow and provide opinions on pop culture? Oh yes, she covers it all.

Okay, so obviously my blog list is much longer, but this is just the start. Part Two coming soon!

Now go check out Jay @ Halftime Lessons. He's doing some amazing stuff for cancer research. You have to be a part of it. Or at the very least encourage him in what he's doing. And yes, he's a favorite on my blog list too. He also thinks my videos are funny. But, since today's not about me, I won't go there right now.

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"

inside the actors studio - le musings of moi

My Blogversation experiment created a monster.

No, not me. Okay, well me a little, but this time I'm talking about my husband. He's obsessed. In fact, he actually wanted to make his own Man Bag video, which he did on You Tube.

Then he/we had all these ideas for more and more and more....

Finally, we came up with the James Lipton Interview. You know the guy from Inside the Actors Studio? So, we decided to go improv and just wing it. You may not think it's funny, but as you'll see, we quickly became big fans of ourselves.

We have big dreams, him and I. We're going places, I think. Well, at least to my blog and You Tube.

You know you've found a good man when he can get dumb and silly with you on a Saturday night. He's especially awesome for still thinking I'm cute and funny even after all the years we've been together.

Okay, so are you ready for the World Premiere?

Summer, Inside the Bloggers Studio with James Lipton.

Now, as you may have figured out, Blogversations: I'll Show You Mine if You Show Me Yours, was a huge success. 5 of us rocked it and that's 4 more than I expected!

Next week's Blogversation will be Your Favorite Room. Get it ready and don't forget to Linky it Saturday morning.

***Now you know I'm all shy about sharing these, so if you wanted to leave a comment about it, I certainly won't stop you.***

© 2009 "Le Musings of Moi"