Guess How Much I Love You is the story of two Nutbrown Hares, Big Nutbrown Hare and Little Nutbrown Hare. Although many see them as father and son, they are never referred to as such. Little Nutbrown Hare asks Big Nutbrown Hare the question, "Guess how much I love you?", and the two continue to use larger and larger measures to quantify how much they love each other in answer to the question. The story shows the love the two share for each other with lines such as, "I love you across the river and over the hills" and my favorite, "I love you to the moon- and back".
Chloe tells me she loves me more than her Barbies and I tell her I love her more than sleeping late!
We continued on with The Nutbrowns reading the story Colors Everywhere. In this story, the question posed is,"what color do you like best?".
Down by the river on a bright summer’s day, Big and Little Nutbrown Hare are lazily looking at all the colors around them. It’s so hard to decide which ones they like best! Big Nutbrown Hare’s favorite blue is the blue of the sky, while Little Nutbrown Hare’s favorite green is the green of the leaves.
While the two observe the surroundings around them, your little one will learn his/her colors.
Adorable plush Nutbrowns are great accompaniments to the book- and of course, very fitting for an Easter basket.
Guess How Much I love You- The Adventures of Little Nutbrown Hare, is the Disney Channels newest show. Be sure to watch it with the kiddies if they love the books as much as we do!
My favorite Sex and the City episode is the one where all the girls pile into a car to drive to a baby shower in Connecticut. All four woman get into the backseat only to wonder- who the hell knows how to drive?! Being Manhattanites, driving is not necessary for the most part. They get to this shower where everyone is dressed in stepford wife frilly, colorful, floral dresses and each one of them were head to toe in black! They were looked at as though they were the Witches of Eastwick by the stepfords!
Whenever I take notice of my friends and I in this situation, I cant help but to bring up this episode.
At my godsons recent christening, I wore black, his mother wore black and another close friend also wore black. Of course I had to refer to this episode. It's very New York-esque to wear black. It's chic and cold like the city we live in. The city we love.
In my efforts to break out of the black shell, I refused to buy anything black some years back. I infused color into my wardrobe. I had fun playing around with prints and patterns. I refused to be yet another girl in black. Back in the day- I used to go out with a group of girls 10 deep. We actually referred to black pants as our going out uniform! That is until I decided to break the mold. I was sick of looking like everyone else and feeling like I was a grieving Italian woman that lost her husband. It was nice for a while having a touch of color in my life. For some reason, I found my way back home...to black- mostly grey. I cant keep my hands off anything grey. I love a crisp white shirt thrown up in the mix too.
So we get to Puerto Rico and I'm so excited to get dressed. I haven't really shopped in a while before the trip and I missed my favorite pastime like a recovering addict. There's a feeling I get inside when I shop that must be similar to how an addict feels. That rush...the excitement in the belly...not knowing where to look first, not knowing where I'll score next- or if I'll score at all. Its such fun. My outfits mostly consisted of dark components. And I brought booties. To Puerto Rico. Some may have frowned upon it- I embraced my somewhat wintry mix of shorts meets booties! It was a bit of home mixed with a bit of vacation.
As I entered the bar area of The El San Juan and Casino, I'm greeted by a variety of bright colors that were so perfect and fitting for a place like this. Sexy heels, beautiful dresses- in all different colors and patterns. I attempted the colorblocking look- and don't get me wrong- I LOVE it. I just didn't do it. I stuck to my roots. I don't wish I had strayed nor do I have regrets over my vacation looks...I was reminded of that Sex and the City episode all over again.
As people talked to us- they said (not asked) "your from New York, right". Was it the way I spoke or what I wore that gave it away?
So my last look wasn't black or grey, but it doesn't scream I'm in Puerto Rico either! I think what matters most, is that I was comfortable in what I wore- not as in comfortable shoes, as in comfortable in my own skin. The outfits were me. I didn't look like anyone else- and I'm okay with that. I actually prefer it. I've done the black, done the trendy, done the tight...now, I'm just doing me-and I like it.
When I think of my grandmother, her tight hugs, her outrageous stories, her great cooking, I get a pit in my stomach. I call it "the missing pit". I would love some more time with her. To be able to see her with my children would make me the happiest person. I know she's watching from above and continuously guiding me with the wise words she left behind- but its not the same. I miss her terribly. She was my first best friend and the last person to break my heart.
I thought I would have this feeling being away without my family. I didn't get it! Am I horrible? In Puerto Rico, I woke up- on my own, for the first time in four and a half years. I went to the bathroom by myself. I showered alone. I ate uninterrupted. I lounged by the pool without being asked for something every 35 seconds. Sure I missed them. I thought about them throughout the day and night. I just didn't get the pit in my stomach! I guess it's because I knew I would see them again, and within a few short days, the chaos would return to my life.
I believe every mom should take a trip without their family. Even if only for a night or weekend. It recharged my soul. I was losing my mind before I left and felt like I was on the verge of a nervous breakdown. I feel appreciated now that I'm home. They were lost without me, hubbie and all. Even the dog went crazy when I got home!
Unfortunately, I think that might be the end of trips that far and that long until the kids are bigger. Chloe called me every day so hysterical I could hardly make out what she was saying. The one thing I did hear was, I shouldn't have let you go mom! I didn't know she had a say and I guess neither did she...but it made me feel bad! I still didn't get the pit- but I did feel bad that I was the reason for her sadness. Max on the other hand, used the floor as his potty to show his anxiousness about Mama's absence.
It took about 5 days after I got home for my kids to realize I was coming back from the store. Every time I left, the cries and screams that came from my home were the saddest sounds I ever heard. I may have not gotten the pit in my stomach being away from my kids, but they sure did. As a mom, that's all I need to know that I can't leave them again. At least not for now- until they are a little older. Or until they drive me crazy again!
Pit or no pit, I know my grandmother is proud of my choice to go away. Although she can't tell me herself, I know. I wish we could sit and talk and laugh about the adventures of Puerto Rico...oh how she loved a good drinking story! For now, I'll miss her- and talk to her the way I do- and continue to miss her...pit in my stomach and all.
Once upon a time, there was a wise man who used to go to the ocean to do his writing. He had a habit of walking on the beach before he began his work.
One day, as he was walking along the shore, he looked down the beach and saw a human figure moving like a dancer. He smiled to himself at the thought of someone who would dance to the day, and so, he walked faster to catch up.
As he got closer, he noticed that the figure was that of a young man, and that what he was doing was not dancing at all. The young man was reaching down to the shore, picking up small objects, and throwing them into the ocean.
He came closer still and called out "Good morning! May I ask what it is that you are doing?"
The young man paused, looked up, and replied "Throwing starfish into the ocean."
"I must ask, then, why are you throwing starfish into the ocean?" asked the somewhat startled wise man.
To this, the young man replied, "The sun is up and the tide is going out. If I don't throw them in, they'll die."
Upon hearing this, the wise man commented, "But, young man, do you not realize that there are miles and miles of beach and there are starfish all along every mile? You can't possibly make a difference!"
At this, the young man bent down, picked up yet another starfish, and threw it into the ocean. As it met the water, he said, "It made a difference for that one."
This is dedicated in honor of my beautiful cousin, Alyssa. She made a difference in the lives of anyone lucky enough to have know her. Friend's of Alyssa's paid tribute to her with this story and I thought it was so beautiful and fitting for her and wanted to do the same.
Alyssa, your optimism has compelled me to do the things I have always wanted to do- but didn't. Your positivity during your worst times is something I will carry with me forever. I miss talking to you and hearing about all of your adventures.
A year has gone by since I last saw your smile. I will think of that smile whenever I need one of my own.
Love you always.
Alyssa was dedicated to making a difference in fighting Angiosarcoma and other rare cancers. If you would like to make a donation in her honor, please go to Cycle For Survival and donate to Mission Cure Possible. Last year, Alyssa fearlessly cycled to raise money for people like herself.
The bloody fury has followed me to Puerto Rico. I'm okay with it because at least here, I can bleed in peace. No little people questioning if my PP has a boo boo or explaining the reasoning for putting a Bandaid on it. Here, I don't have to come up with stories like fruit punch making my pee come out red. Here, I don't have to hide in the bathroom, praying for a moment to deposit or withdraw a tampon without being caught in the act!
This bloody fury of mine tends to show up at the worst times. The worst ever- my wedding day! Can you imagine? So of course it followed me on my honeymoon as well.
I have a long history with "the curse" as my mother refers to it. My love/hate relationship with "the curse" began early on in the 5th grade. My mom never even had the talk with me yet. I was playing in the snow outside my friends house and kept getting these horrible stomach pains. I went inside to use her bathroom and was horrified to find a brown surprise. I thought I had shit myself! I frantically called my mom- disclosing all information to her in fear that others would hear my conversation. I was mortified to describe my findings to her- and when I did, she knew she had a lot of explaining to do!
As happy as I was to find out I still had control of my bowels, I was not happy to hear that this would be happening to me for many years to come- and once a month no less!
Before pregnancy, the curse lived up to its name. Trying to get pregnant with an irregular period that can come around every 52 days or so, is not an easy task. I hated to see it when it did show up the months that I was hoping it wouldn't. I also did not miss it once I became pregnant. Included in the many benefits of breastfeeding came the absence of the monthly visitor. It was so nice not getting it for close to 2 years with each of my kids!
I've also had moments where the curse wasn't much of a curse at all. Moments like these I was overjoyed...ruined white pants and all. Moments like these made me take back anything bad I had ever said about it.
Its been a rocky road for the curse and I for the past 25 years or so. This is one of those things that you love to hate, but will miss when its gone. With the disappearance of your menstrual cycle comes the hot flashes of menopause and fears of growing older. Its crazy how it comes full circle.
Now on vacation, as my cycle and vacation come to an end, the only blood I want to think about is the Bloody Mary greeting me each morning. Here's to you CURSE, for your always perfect timing.
No Bloody Mary's were harmed while writing this post...I hope.
Warning; consuming alcoholic beverages may cause giving fake names, developing accents other than your own, alter egos to come out and adding a senior citizen to your entourage (shout out Brucey!)
Me with my last frozen mojito before going home!
The moment I got to the pool and saw these floating around in the hands of many others, I knew I had to have one. As a mojito lover, this was a dream come true in the hot Puerto Rican sun! From the first sip, the drink had me! So refreshing and tart. I will be making them much stronger than the El San Juan hotel and it will cost me a lot less than $13 a pop! I knew I had to share this recipe upon my arrival home- so here it goes!
Frozen Mojito Recipe
INGREDIENTS:
1 (6 oz.) can of frozen limeade mix
White Rum
Crushed or cubed ice
A fistful of fresh mint
Sparkling water or club soda
Limes and mint leaves for garnish
PROCEDURE:
In blender, pour 1 can of frozen limeade mix, 1 can of rum, and then fill blender with ice.
Place fresh mint leaves in a bowl and with a muddler, (the back of a spoon or fork will work) gently mash the leaves just enough to release their minty essence.
Place muddled mint leaves and 1 can of sparkling water into limeade-rum mixture.
Blend, adding ice or water as necessary to create the consistency of frozen slush.
Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of mint. Serve in wide-mouthed margarita glasses or a plastic cup will do just fine!
Cheers & enjoy my favorite thing I brought home from Puerto Rico- unfortunately, the others couldn't fit in my bag!
Anyone that knows me, knows I come in a pair...and I'm not talking my husband. I'm talking Dawn! A friends daughter actually referred to us as TaraDawn!
Dawn has been my closest friend since as far back as I have memories.We grew up in each others houses and our families are more like family then friends. The countless sleepovers, dinners at each others houses and feeling like I had a sister- even though I didn't, made my childhood an amazing one. To this day, she is like my sister. I am so lucky to have a friend like her in my life.
When Dawn asked me to be her sons Godmother, I was truly honored. When you decide to start a family of your own, your choosing to have those children. When someone asks you to become their child's Godmother- its so special because they are choosing you. It wasn't only becoming his Godmother that made it so special, it was that is tightened our already tight bond. It kind of sealed the deal and actually made us family.
I have a special bond with baby Anthony already and hes only 5 months old. I absolutely adore him and hope to be that special person in his life that he loves to be around because only he & I share that special bond. I plan on spoiling him terribly and loving him unconditionally.
Thank you Dawn and Anthony for choosing me. I promise to be an outstanding Godparent to lil Gingy!
Picture is not me- nor does it reflect my results!!!!
In my post, motivation found...a trip alone, I told you all about my upcoming trip to Puerto Rico- sans mi familia! This trip to paradiso is this Thursday! I knew I had to cut out my bad eating habits and get my ass to the gym!
I am so proud of myself for following through with my plan. The added pressure of going away definitely kicked my plan into gear. I cant believe I was allowing myself to eat what I was eating prior to booking the trip. I also cannot believe how great I feel- you truly are what you eat. I feel like a new person! I made a promise to myself to not return to my old ways upon my return home from the trip.
I didn't do anything crazy. The things I did- anyone can do. I hope to spread some motivation your way by writing this.
What I added:
Cardio. 30-45 minutes on the elliptical 4-5 days per wk.
Water. I was not drinking enough before. I drink one or more of the biggest Poland Springs daily.
Breakfast. Do not skip this meal. It is so important to get your metabolism going early. My meals include;
Multi grain cheerios with skim milk.
2 eggs- one whole, one white with one slice of whole grain toast with apple butter spread.
2 hard boiled egg whites with either toast with apple butter or a bowl of multi grain cheerios with skim milk.
A vanilla yogurt smoothie with half a banana and strawberries.
I added greens to my lunches such a salad or asparagus. My favorite is butter lettuce mixed with baby arugula. Trader Joe's has great baby beats that are very filling and satisfying chopped in a salad. They also sell a cilantro dressing that I'm addicted to that makes eating salads desirable!
Along with the salad, I would add a protein such as grilled chicken or a turkey burger.
Breaded and baked chicken cutlets for dinner. Whole wheat bread crumbs are now available or you can make your own. Bake cutlets on 350 for 30 minutes. They are really good!
Fish is a great way to switch things up and add protein.
Jello with low fat cool whip for a sweet if I needed it- which I did!
Berries with low fat cool whip is also a great was to satisfy a sweet tooth.
What I took away:
Whole milk in coffee. I've been adding skim milk or fat free half & half. The skim milk is not good- this I will admit!
Eating what my kids didn't! This is horrible and unnecessary! I think stopping this did justice on its own! I'm disgusted at myself for consuming so many empty, unnecessary calories this way.
Starches with dinner. A protein, veggie and salad are equally satisfying. You will not miss the heavy feeling that comes with pasta, rice or potatoes- I assure you.
Eating sweets EVERYDAY! I didn't realize I was doing this- how crazy is that? Once I put myself on a regimen, I realized what poor food choices I was making for myself.
If I had toast with breakfast, I would skip it for lunch. If I skipped it at breakfast, I allowed a wrap or 1 slice of toast at lunch. This does not apply with dinner. Try to stay away from breads with dinner. This way of rationalizing your intake is a great way of still eating what you want- within reason. If you want some M&M's- have a mini bag- but, control yourself and have just one. Also- that should be the only exception for the day.
I stopped saying I will start tomorrow or it doesn't matter if I eat this one thing. It does matter. It does count- the proof is in your ass!
If you don't belong to a gym, get out and walk. Walk around the corner at first. Go further each day. You have to start somewhere. Before you know it- you will be walking further than you ever thought you could and love it!
Don't go food shopping without a list. Planning out your healthy meals by writing a list helps with following through. Going to the grocery store rogue can be dangerous!
Pre -wash & chop fruits and veggies to nosh on. This makes snacking on healthier things much easier. If you have to wash & chop- you will go for something easier & most likely- not a good choice.
Keep fatty snacks out of the house.
I'm still a work in progress. I just cant believe I was sabotaging myself and my own happiness for so long. You have to stop making excuses and go for it. It is SO worth it. Its empowering to finally commit to something I kept putting off for no reason at all.
I will eat my favorite foods- in moderation. I love pizza and could never give it up completely.I just wont have it 3 times a week! I will have a bagel when I get home from vacation. I will also keep reminding myself how great I feel and how I much better I will feel chasing my kids on the beach this summer by keeping up with this lifestyle. If you eat something heavy- you'll feel heavy. If you eat something light- you'll feel lighter. Its that simple.
I kept saying 10 pounds isn't that much to lose- it was my crutch. It is a lot and it feels great off. My clothes fit better and I have more pep in my step!
Kate Moss once said, "nothing tastes as good as skinny feels" and although I'm not much of a fan, I couldn't agree more with her!
Clif came out with a line of healthy, tasty snacks for kids that my kids love. Max really likes the organic chocolate brownie bar made with 8-11 whole grains. I keep snacks in my bag at all times for the kids because they are constantly eating! Chloe likes the fruit rope in fruit punch. Each Z fruit rope is pureed organic fruit twisted into a rope shape that's easy for little hands to handle! I take these along in my bag as well as sending them to school in Chloe's lunch bag. I like to switch it up and offer different things to my kids. They seem to really enjoy these and they are good for them which makes us all happy!
Any healthy snacks that your kids like? I love a good snack suggestion!
From time to time, I take max in the shower with me. It loosens him up when he has a cold. When he's not in the shower with me, he's playing right outside the glass shower doors, playing with his trains. The last few times we were in the bathroom together, I noticed him staring dead on at my nether region. I knew he was going to say something about it when "yuck", is what came out!
I know hes only two- but I was offended by his yuck! I told him- mommy's vagina is not yuck, Max. And if it is yuck by any means, it's because you and your sister came out of it and made it that way!
I know I shouldn't be, but I am now self- conscience naked in front of my two year old! I think its time to start showering with Daddy, Max. And don't think I'm not telling this story to your first girlfriend!
So Chloe just recently got into telling jokes...she hasn't quite mastered her craft just yet. This morning's joke was how did the dog get the treat? He jumped up and got it out of his mom's hand! Funny? Maybe not so much. Adorable? Very. I may be biased- but she put a smile on my face. Job well done little lady!
We continued on with The Nutbrowns reading the story Colors Everywhere. In this story, the question posed is,"what color do you like best?".
