tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65291904060884210862024-03-18T20:30:41.700-07:00Not Just Baby TalkKarenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.comBlogger138125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-23077465224445214282011-12-23T07:35:00.000-08:002011-12-23T07:35:35.329-08:00It's the Little Things That CountOne extra step in making pancakes this morning made one little guy pretty excited about Christmas break, and life in general.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u4rwfueIexc/TvSfcCl_myI/AAAAAAAAAjg/omEMM5E1Xek/s1600/pancake.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u4rwfueIexc/TvSfcCl_myI/AAAAAAAAAjg/omEMM5E1Xek/s320/pancake.jpeg" width="192" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lLMd5BoE9WQ/TvSfdmUESWI/AAAAAAAAAjo/iJYMLzpe5Sk/s1600/jack1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lLMd5BoE9WQ/TvSfdmUESWI/AAAAAAAAAjo/iJYMLzpe5Sk/s320/jack1.jpeg" width="192" /></a></div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-88049165615775869512011-12-21T07:16:00.000-08:002011-12-21T07:16:59.137-08:00For the Love of TargetBecause I have a toddler now, I have come to realize I cannot simply hit up any store for Christmas shopping. I must be able to take Jackson in a stroller, or cart. This means a lot of loved ones will receive gifts from Target this year. Not all, sometimes I shop at night when he is asleep, in which case Amazon gifts may result.<br />
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My son's doctor said to me this month to never take Jackson into Target. It is too overwhelming for toddlers. I think I need a new pediatrician. Target is great for toddlers. He loves looking at everything and he gets a lot of attention from other shoppers that think he is cute. The cart is so big too he can't see when I sneak a gift in there for him.<br />
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Target has just about everything a person needs for Christmas. Last minute Christmas cards? Check. Tupperware for cookies? Check. Toys? Check, check, check. Gift cards? Check. <a href="http://www.essie.com/">Essie</a> nail polish for stock stuffers? Check. Big cart for toddler with hand sanitizer wipes? Check.<br />
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They just make it so easy. I guess their holiday campaign slogan rings true...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJgKeNxvY9MpoOrbDO2ffrcFKVwfvEZrOnD5amYutjVKX_C_Qpb9zQtraC2IV2ejxEPVVSF6t6dcTzE93IRsqq-p6auAjySJhTeKQL5u3R2chnK7e6OXwKtr3Bnoe6r5UPj3ht4m9_koM8/s320/Target.jpg" width="273" /></div> http://www.target.comKarenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-50370070136115512792011-09-16T08:15:00.000-07:002011-09-16T08:15:00.246-07:00Daycare vs. Early Childhood Education<span id="internal-source-marker_0.30504595493938436" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><span id="internal-source-marker_0.30504595493938436" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Guest Blogger:</b> Kathleen Thomas, Early Childhood Education Coordinator </span><br />
<span id="internal-source-marker_0.30504595493938436" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</span><br />
<span id="internal-source-marker_0.30504595493938436" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Most family units today require quality daycare for toddlers and preschool aged children; regardless if the family is a single parent or a duel career couple. While a good daycare provider is of utmost importance, children who are beginning their path in cognitive thinking can benefit from a structured educational experience to jump-start their learning skills, and prepare a child for the educational journey ahead of them. <br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />Some parents are fortunate to have family members, neighbors, or hire a babysitter to come into the home and care for their children. However, even though a child’s basic needs are being provided, and some socialization can occur in a typical </span><a href="http://www.primroseschools.com/"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: blue; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline;">child care</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> center; the opportunity for intellectual growth is lacking. These would include activities which are structured to teach and challenge the child’s learning abilities. There is an alternative one may consider that can give the child a firm educational foundation, and stimulate his or her intellectual growth. This would be to enroll your child in a certified preschool program for early childhood education.</span><span id="internal-source-marker_0.30504595493938436" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><span id="internal-source-marker_0.30504595493938436" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGA5pwE0-I31Wh65Bf_4l3JPWaIREKndl3SEhLDMa4yLMIkP0jykk37v2NmN7ZjWzeN7_kzlm9M6z32MKP2y4Lajc_ZUdOlStI8A52dIfxEtUd3ZmzEotfaCi6hplcmoBZADBGebnNxLY1/s1600/www.primroseschools.com+2011-9-15+21%253A50%253A57.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGA5pwE0-I31Wh65Bf_4l3JPWaIREKndl3SEhLDMa4yLMIkP0jykk37v2NmN7ZjWzeN7_kzlm9M6z32MKP2y4Lajc_ZUdOlStI8A52dIfxEtUd3ZmzEotfaCi6hplcmoBZADBGebnNxLY1/s200/www.primroseschools.com+2011-9-15+21%253A50%253A57.png" width="200" /></a></div><span id="internal-source-marker_0.30504595493938436" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br class="kix-line-break" />Research suggests that children may begin the learning process even before birth; during the last trimester of the pregnancy, the child may react and benefit from exposure to certain types of music or speech. After birth, the learning process continues through environment behaviorism learning: to obtain pleasure and avoid pain, observational learning, and self-efficacy. <br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />During the preschool years, (age one – five), a person's brain is in the developmental stages. The environment which includes experience and exposure has a major effect and largely shapes the adult that he or she will become. It is in this period of development the child learns language skills, a sense of oneself, and what their cultural roles are; all the basic tools required to function in a given society. These years are when a child's brain functions to reason and understand develop; exposure to the learning process during this period in a child's life has a positive effect that will last forever. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br class="kix-line-break" />Early childhood education is where children are given the opportunities for cognitive development through learning activities such as educational games, identification of colors, shapes, and sounds, counting numbers, or learning the alphabet. These skills will give a child an edge in the areas of learning when he or she attends kindergarten. Skills such reading, writing, speech, and mathematics gives a child the advantage needed to excel in school, and the sooner a child learns to apply these skills, the opportunity to improve is evident over time. Interaction with other children in a certified preschool environment enables a child's social skills to mature, and they are able to socialize with their peers in a positive manner. <br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />The benefits received from a quality preschool education will set a child up for success in the future; in school and throughout adulthood. With educational achievements becoming a demand made on those who are entering the work force, the advantages of early childhood education cannot be ignored.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-49034975282812540892011-09-15T19:46:00.000-07:002011-09-15T19:46:54.718-07:00Introduction of Guest Blogger: Kathleen ThomasEver have questions about your toddlers being prepared for elementary school? I don't know about you other moms, but I consistently am trying to work with Jackson on his vocabulary by reading to him and talking ot him constantly. As a working mom, it is hard for me to handle someone else having to teach him all day in these critical years. I try to make up for it at night, but luckily, we do have a wonderful daycare provider. <br />
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While on the subject, I invited Kathleen Thomas, an Early Childhood Education Coordinator, to be a guest writer on my blog to address these and other concerns. Kathleen works for <a href="http://www.primroseschools.com/">Primrose Schools</a>, and I'm excited to have her share some of her great wisdom with all of you. <br />
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Tomorrow Kathleen will share her thoughts on early childhood education. Stay tuned!Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-84430440740309439992011-07-01T18:31:00.000-07:002011-07-01T18:31:13.790-07:00Old Photos of the Green MonsterI was looking through some old photos tonight and came across this gem. It just made me laugh so hard. He hated that green monster costume, but damn he was cute. <br />
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Jack was 5.5 months old during this time. I'm so glad I captured all of these kind of moments....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOjrlE6KDd43bjOANiRhSw6Jei2q5Xs9s5ZFZwG8tqWyJAUelkyiR1KT8vPdg_d58IZQ4Z0Gnyj0M7DpUO_gZTtCUjr5xvjzC5hyoVEyKU8ymCXsh-Qu8b8Y27buiOImMXoyRpbFE7D_Is/s1600/monster2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOjrlE6KDd43bjOANiRhSw6Jei2q5Xs9s5ZFZwG8tqWyJAUelkyiR1KT8vPdg_d58IZQ4Z0Gnyj0M7DpUO_gZTtCUjr5xvjzC5hyoVEyKU8ymCXsh-Qu8b8Y27buiOImMXoyRpbFE7D_Is/s320/monster2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg09GFsU_e2ledcpWDryPu13rfewbgRrJGbMyhLIBJqHYEIVQ1dVVIY1IBLMEk2ReZLdf8A1Z20rjKaSwfz1XSSpXZs9jFQP8UsgeaCbGZJQWd_q6HJLC7e32q19tHlBxczXMr0ZiR1i3Oq/s1600/greendragon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg09GFsU_e2ledcpWDryPu13rfewbgRrJGbMyhLIBJqHYEIVQ1dVVIY1IBLMEk2ReZLdf8A1Z20rjKaSwfz1XSSpXZs9jFQP8UsgeaCbGZJQWd_q6HJLC7e32q19tHlBxczXMr0ZiR1i3Oq/s320/greendragon.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-20139767461013187242011-06-29T19:32:00.001-07:002011-06-29T19:43:14.291-07:00Off To Toronto<div><p>Traveling once again.  This time to Toronto for work. No, I've never been. </p>
<p>What an eventful trip. First, a foreign worker at the airport told off another worker in a language she couldn't understand. It was kind of funny. Then, flight delay and we missed out flight by about 10 minutes. Seriously they couldn't wait 10 minutes?</p>
<p>Then another flight delay and we were stuck waiting in the basement.</p>
<p>Finally on our flight but probably won't get in until the morning. Thank goodness for those late nights with baby...good training for work travel and functioning on a lack of sleep!</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR84JqUbxt24B3lLClvmPmmCTS7AeIoG76TIb7MHJdUxGwdc3hPZdIbho6h9YH0FDkRd__19tkX59bzrkgL3X76SVksYd1Xw_YkR8lYqCxNvoMtO8CKsW_0EW_39GjFBldPieuQuzbjwko/' /></div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-59662060613122729152011-06-25T20:51:00.001-07:002011-06-26T15:41:33.973-07:00Easy and wholesome baked chicken<div><p>This morning when I was in yoga I had a great idea. Hit up the farmers market outside after class and gather up some home grown potatoes, herbs, and onions to go with a farm raised baked chicken for dinner.</p>
<p>I met this very nice lady last week who was fawning over Jack at the grocery store. I noticed she was buying a whole farmed raised chicken so I asked her how to prepare it.  She said it is so easy....</p>
<p>Wash the bird, spread it with olive oil, salt, pepper and add herbs. Bake it at 350 for 2 hours. </p>
<p>She said it will make your home smell like heaven. I like the smell of heaven.</p>
<p>So this will be my project for today. I hope it will taste as good as it looks!  What do you think?  I will let you know.</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5TgijZaMJadFD_aDM0y9Cd_6mbNhdNb-U76greeQvsynM_ofrLArrqDxm1qUuIr0lGHkiP3cIDIvW-7sxcxtejQTn2MznKKNqHYVfA7aegTM1CtYn9h7XsGpjT28KWz-KAHmvca0_fRLL/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiDQ3M7v7xY3j2FIUzvg6N2OGrcDKj0UmqD_T6KNVptKP67UvduuZEs8FdVZ0Dob_Q0qHZANCaOrS0uTNFnrC8m8Q9Fhk9uVkMwAb5G4aIZrRD1hisLwtwVLc2sGiI1a3LJxYVll7yWP0k/' /></div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-3481918374768602482011-06-23T06:41:00.001-07:002011-06-23T06:41:29.169-07:00Baby Vampire<div><p>Sometimes I take photos of Jack and his messy face.  Doesn't he look like a baby vampire today??</p>
<p>Gotta love those blackberries.</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyp6AUmU4g3HPvub1w7aRo7IeSD6-xX6eJV2odfa5SYPhIuoI-EIZN_xLG3LpPlICAAT1jxyNLoIMqkJVFpXK8hb4gwK_C3F64-p7nJzPnK3wy87UtffwpqWLADnhbsJ4cRFcmzP2vmLv5/' /></div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-82495138353463736442011-06-18T09:29:00.001-07:002011-06-18T10:22:08.899-07:00Farmers Market Love<div>Today has been busy already. First yoga and then to the local farmers market. There I picked up fresh veggies for dinner not to mention for our fathers day bbq tomorrow. Making grilled veggies and smoked ribs. Omg yum.<br />
When I got home Jack and I went up to another farmers market in town and bought a local homemade quiche for lunch.<br />
These summer days can't get much better than this...Jack celebrated with a well deserved morning nap.<br />
Check out my veggie scores!<br />
Happy summer Saturday!<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFYCMMbtCZ7EKoSgBzxEuKvJ1BJGjq9G926hHUpq0uUGJ5yB-ZAXl9IRHKyP7AI0Q0447sAHxGIxwX9dHFUV5NW9UVULguOFY1ZQy1qBBXS4J-A_8yneIZd5KRh4lagbnZatACpP1y37Qq/" /><br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOn4uKv9E1WaOovpAJH1TLhhEWIwNEA41rxrlKGf-nIb0_NNhu8xjIDXfZqSXa5dfOHmrjkp05pcC8ovg5Xbav3yctTgFYQdCh_FNAkXF-2qEqmrMu2rcfj1ALJTkeXUVAnTuSEHoL1_3O/" /></div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-42091488193845669822011-06-05T17:37:00.001-07:002011-06-05T17:37:55.949-07:00Sandbox Wonders<div><p>Jack and I hit the park for an afternoon of fun. We are lucky as we live right by a park so he even got to ride his new bike up there.<br>
I discovered they have a sandbox up at the park. At first I thought this is great, something else fun to do with my babe, but then realized it's kind of not so great. Sandboxes are dirty and who knows what cat stopped by to make its mark (sorry, it's true). <br>
Jack only thought it was okay. Hey, I figure if your kid isn't in love with the sandbox, don't push it on them. Less mess, right?<br>
Jack still has sand on his bike seat today. Damn sandbox.<br>
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<br/><img src='http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0WirBt1YnUQ/TewhYjZ78oI/AAAAAAAAAYk/L85oNpTDgcA/2011-06-04%25252015.25.39.png' /></div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-45802158337012644932011-05-17T07:24:00.001-07:002011-05-17T07:24:23.969-07:00Milk Man<div><p>The other day, Jack and I decided to take the jogging stroller up to starbucks for a java break.  <br>
Once there, we decided to relax in one of the big cozy chairs and enjoy our drinks.<br>
Me? Soy decaf latte.<br>
Jack? Vanilla organic milk.<br>
By the way mamas, those milks have tons of sugar in them! No wonder Jack sucked it right down. <br>
Be careful...this is going to be a rare treat for my little dude from now on.</p>
<br/><img src='http://lh5.ggpht.com/_NEsGldn1F2c/TdKFDRlpkZI/AAAAAAAAAYY/_sz5aR7Dik8/2011-05-07%2010.41.23.png' /><br/><img src='http://lh5.ggpht.com/_NEsGldn1F2c/TdKFEXRRQFI/AAAAAAAAAYc/bNOBQrMlMjA/2011-05-07%2010.54.18.png' /><br/><img src='http://lh4.ggpht.com/_NEsGldn1F2c/TdKFFfkA4fI/AAAAAAAAAYg/oIJCPCq01wg/2011-05-07%2010.48.34.png' /></div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-45733746582883268062011-05-14T20:24:00.001-07:002011-05-14T20:24:18.869-07:00Party Planning!<div><p>Jack turns one on monday! I cannot believe it! It seemed like just yesterday we brought him home from the hospital. <br>
Of course we are throwing him a big fat one year old party.<br>
All the family is coming so it has to be a good time.<br>
Last night I hit up the party shop and found a lot of great stuff for cheap...<br>
Hats, a sign, Jackson birthday balloons, paper plates, forks, and party bags for the kids. <br>
So much to do before next weekend! Tomorrow's plans? We order the cake. Hell no I do not bake!</p>
<br/><img src='http://lh3.ggpht.com/_NEsGldn1F2c/Tc9HWff-QRI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/CVvPdETdqv0/2011-05-14%2022.13.01.png' /><br/><img src='http://lh4.ggpht.com/_NEsGldn1F2c/Tc9HYccnDiI/AAAAAAAAAYU/X6NWfCT4yno/2011-05-14%2022.13.55.png' /></div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-23371082830661376242011-05-06T07:34:00.000-07:002011-05-06T07:34:00.332-07:00Driving Trucks BackwardsI don't know what it is about toy trucks, but my son absolutely loves them. He gets on his hands and knees and pushes them around the living room into the dining room, kitchen, bathroom, up the stairs, into his bedroom, and then back down and all over again.<br />
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It's so adorable. When he doesn't have a truck on hand, he finds a book, random toy, or even a cup to push around like a truck around the house. Again, adorable and quite imaginative. <br />
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What makes it even more funny though is he oftentimes does not realize trucks probably should be facing forward in order to drive around. Oh well. He will figure it out someday.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/?action=view&current=CSC_0053-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="320" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/CSC_0053-1.jpg" width="218" /></a></div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-3441370424623814862011-04-29T02:54:00.000-07:002011-04-29T02:54:19.390-07:00Happy Royal Wedding Day!<div align="center"><a href="http://s1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/?action=view&current=williamkate.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/williamkate.jpg" /></a></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">image via <a href="http://www.people.com/">http://www.people.com/</a></span></em></div><br />
Yes, I am up watching the Royal Wedding on my television at 4:30am! Why am I up so darn early? I know that DVR exists. There is something about watching it live people. This is a historic experience and knowing I get to see it as it happens is so much fun. It is also tradition!<br />
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30 years ago when I was a little baby, my mom got up to watch the Royal Wedding at 4am. She was so excited to see Princess Diana's dress. She always tells the story about getting up early to watch it, drinking her coffee and eating little donuts while us babies slept upstairs. I love that story. <br />
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So yes, although in different cities, my mom and I both have our coffee and little breakfasts ready to go as we watch the big event. It's our thing.<br />
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With that little story, I hope you all enjoy your own little wedding tradition. Congrats to Willimam and Kate! You make such a beautiful couple. Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-58429673174229917242011-04-22T08:26:00.000-07:002011-04-22T08:29:44.829-07:00Fish Farts FridayWith Jackson's first birthday approaching us, I'm starting to think about him becoming a toddler soon and all the fun it entails. He is going to start walking, brushing his teeth himself, and playing new games. It's going to be so fun to watch him grow....<br />
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It's also going to be tough at times to keep him entertained. Let's face it, little kids are impatient! Even now if he doesn't get his cracker immediately at the dinner table, he is a mad little dude.<br />
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My husband's company came up with this new android app that I think may help us out from time to time when he gets to that point. It's a game called "Fish Farts."<br />
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When I first hear the name "fish farts" I thought to myself "oh lord." And then I played the game and thought to myself "hey, this is cute." The basic idea is like Tetras. Pop the bubbles before they reach the top of the screen. Accidentally touch a fish and let out this farting noise and start to cloud up the screen with grossness. I couldn't stop playing it the other night. Ridiculous.<br />
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So naturally I felt compelled to share this all with you, my lovely online mommy friends in case you want to entertain your youngsters.<br />
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Here is a sneak preview of the android app:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/?action=view&current=fish.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="120" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/fish.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/?action=view&current=fish2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="119" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/fish2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
Fish Farts is launching today in the Android market. Just check your smart phone market and do a quick search. It's not really a name you can forget, right?<br />
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Or, you can get some more updates on the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/apps/application.php?id=217785368236179&sk=wall">Facebook page here</a>.<br />
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Happy Fish Fart Friday everyone!Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-44472868611251533252011-04-12T16:45:00.000-07:002011-04-12T16:45:01.334-07:00Taking a BreakI'm a slacker. Well, only for my blog that is. In all honestly, I work a pretty hectic work week and of course have a small babe to take care of. It's tough, and sometimes I have to just admit that I can't do everything. Unfortunately what gets cut out of my life is the fun stuff, like my blog. Tear.<br />
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I took a new job at work which I love so far, but I'm working long hours each day and on the weekends now. Basically once Jack goes to bed I go back to work. And I work late. Every night. I can't complain because I chose this route, so I need to give it the time to get better. With that note, I may have to take a break from posting everyday.<br />
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I hope to be on from time to time posting at least once a week some great ideas and thoughts. I hope to also share Jack's progress (how he is growing so fast)!<br />
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Don't un-follow me please! I love this blog and my followers so much. I just need a bit of a break to get my head above water. <br />
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So until I post again, farewell, xoxo.Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-10977634244156607702011-04-07T07:19:00.000-07:002011-04-07T07:19:15.808-07:00Duck ButtEaster is coming...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/?action=view&current=duckbutt.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="320" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/duckbutt.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-17820373066527878972011-04-06T06:54:00.000-07:002011-04-06T06:54:28.939-07:00Another Day at the ZooLast Saturday, my parents and I took baby Jack to the zoo for the first time in St. Louis! It was a hit!<br />
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It was a very crowded day at the zoo, but we didn't care. Since I plan on taking Jack there a lot as he grows up because we visit so often, I didn't mind the fact we couldn't see everything. Plus, the zoo is free so it's no problem going multiple times a year.<br />
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Here are a few animals that we did see...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/?action=view&current=elephant.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="160" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/elephant.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/?action=view&current=bear-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="200" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/bear-1.jpg" width="142" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/?action=view&current=penguin.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="200" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/penguin.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
The animal that got Jack's undivided attention were the black bears. I think they reminded him of his puppy dog at home, Rooney.<br />
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I love the zoo in St. Louis because I went all the time with my family. It gives me great memories that I want Jackson to have too.<br />
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For anyone that is looking for a fun way to spend the weekend, I highly recommend the <a href="http://www.stlzoo.org/">St. Louis Zoo.</a> It's such a fun family experience. In addition to animals, there are fun gift shops, flowers, a train, a carousel, and even beer! Yes, I had a beer at the zoo of course.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>*photos via www.stlzoo.org</i></span>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-64173127440784155092011-04-05T06:37:00.000-07:002011-04-05T06:37:01.573-07:00Road Trips & Crying BabyWow, what a weekend. We had so much fun on our road trip to St. Louis. The only part that was a little rough was the last hour of the ride home. Jack had been sleeping the entire way and then he woke up....<br />
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What is the game plan for a crying baby in the car when you are all alone?<br />
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1) Sing songs that he likes...some of Jack's favorites include little tunes I've made up with his name in them like "Baby on the Run" and "Oh Look at that Baby in the Window." I know, I'm weird, but it is more fun than singing him the same old boring songs.<br />
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2) Toss back new and fun toys for him. Jack especially likes toy cars...tossing back binkies isn't a bad idea either.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Little-People-Wheelies-Racing/dp/B003U8XYYS?ie=UTF8&tag=not0d2-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" target="_blank"><img alt="Fisher-Price Little People Wheelies All About Racing" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=B003U8XYYS&tag=not0d2-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=not0d2-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B003U8XYYS" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> </div><br />
3) When all of that doesn't work, try the "you cry, I cry approach." Now, I'm not a huge fan of this approach but it worked for a bit. Jack would let out a cry and then I would let out a cry. Sort of like an echo. For some reason, it seemed to make both of us feel better. <img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=not0d2-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B003U8XYYS" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /><br />
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4) When all else fails, take a break. Pull over and give your little guy a hug. It won't get you home any time sooner, but you might just both feel a lot better.Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-84473830151339459452011-04-01T08:43:00.000-07:002011-04-01T08:43:21.948-07:00Road Trip with Baby & More FoodJack and I are hitting the road today for St. Louis. Daddy is staying home to do the taxes and work on the bathroom the weekend. I expect to see some progress when we get home on Sunday, ha! Wishful thinking? No way, my hubs is pretty good about getting stuff done while we are gone.<br />
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I think I have our trip planned pretty well--sippy cups, snacks, toys, binkys, extra clothes. The tough part is going to be the snack on the road. Jack can't eat it in the car, so we will have to stop on the road somewhere, which I hate. I hate fast food places, and don't want to just feed him in the backseat. There are a couple of McDonald's on the way that are good places to stop. Too bad their food is poison.<br />
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My game plan is to try and keep driving the whole time unless the hunger cries begin. Maybe today he will eat a big lunch at daycare before I pick him up? Hope so.<br />
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If we do have to stop I bought some trusty Earth's Best Organic Cereal Bars. They get kind of messy, but they are a pretty tasty snack. They mush up pretty nicely too. Hopefully McDonald's won't mind.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Earths-Best-Organic-Cereal-5-3-Ounce/dp/B000ER1CVK?ie=UTF8&tag=not0d2-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" target="_blank"></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=not0d2-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000ER1CVK" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Earths-Best-Organic-Cereal-5-3-Ounce/dp/B000ER1CVK?ie=UTF8&tag=not0d2-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" target="_blank"><img alt="Earth's Best Organic Tots Cereal Bars, Cherry, 5.3-Ounce Boxes (Pack of 6)" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=B000ER1CVK&tag=not0d2-20" /> </a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Have you noticed that I've been talking about food a lot lately for Jack? It is something that is always on the top of my mind. I wish there was some kind of baby food resource out there for when babes start wanting to eat real food. It's stressful. I feel like a short order cook sometimes!</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=not0d2-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000ER1CVK" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Anyone else feel my pain?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Oh well, it's Friday so who care, right? Can't wait for our roadtrip and to see all the family and friends.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Friday!</div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-88657389183690394812011-03-31T07:45:00.000-07:002011-03-31T07:45:01.196-07:00Little LuggageWith spring and summer comes travel....<br />
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I'm from St. Louis and love to go home to see my friends and family. And then there is the lake. Yea! Jack and I are headed to St. Louis here pretty soon for a little visit. Daddy needs to focus on the taxes. Haha. Perfect time for our trip because I want nothing to do with the taxes.<br />
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So I thought I would do a little shopping for baby luggage. How cute are these bags on wheels?<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Disney-Story-Woody-Pilot-Luggage/dp/B003BWWK9I?ie=UTF8&tag=not0d2-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" target="_blank"><img alt="Disney Toy Story Buzz and Woody Pilot Case Luggage" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=B003BWWK9I&tag=not0d2-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=not0d2-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B003BWWK9I" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Melissa-Doug-Trunki-Sunny-Orange/dp/B003H7HUHO?ie=UTF8&tag=not0d2-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" target="_blank"><img alt="Melissa & Doug Trunki Sunny (Orange)" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=B003H7HUHO&tag=not0d2-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=not0d2-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B003H7HUHO" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Disney-Pixar-Cars-Pilot-MULTI/dp/B0048E9CM6?ie=UTF8&tag=not0d2-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" target="_blank"><img alt="Disney Pixar Cars Pilot Case For Kids MULTI" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=B0048E9CM6&tag=not0d2-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=not0d2-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0048E9CM6" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Jack may be a little too small to lug one of these babies around right now, but someday soon, I'll have to invest. </div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-74016432542359847232011-03-29T10:29:00.000-07:002011-03-29T10:29:51.019-07:00Little Chocolate DonutsIf you are a SNL fan like me, you may remember this classic John Belushi skit...little chocolate donuts.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><object height="288" width="512"><param name="movie" value="http://www.hulu.com/embed/y-mNDkWeqvTW4FZOCSsPmQ"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.hulu.com/embed/y-mNDkWeqvTW4FZOCSsPmQ" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="512" height="288" allowFullScreen="true"></embed></object></div><br />
I better be careful, because I'm getting a kick out of feeding my baby dessert from time to time, including little chocolate donuts....<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/?action=view&current=chocolatedonut.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="320" src="http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g460/karenner1/chocolatedonut.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
He really likes them. A little too much. Time to cut back before he starts to look like the new little chocolate donuts spokesman.Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-52963646933035927482011-03-28T09:01:00.000-07:002011-03-28T09:01:38.681-07:00The Cheesy Egg SolutionWhy is it so hard to figure out what to feed baby? Oh yes, because he can choke on anything that is larger than a pea, and on top of that, he doesn't like everything we eat. Lovely.<br />
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Introducing the "Cheesy Egg." When Jack rejects his food, or is having a hard time with some food that I thought he would easily devour (like my homemade chicken noodle soup today), the cheesy egg meal is my back up plan. I buy organic Eggsland Best eggs as I feel like are likely to be pretty good for him. At least that is what the label says! Protein and vitamins, sounds good to me. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dozen-Wooden-Chicken-Kitchen-Decor/dp/B003F1HEAA?ie=UTF8&tag=not0d2-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" target="_blank"><img alt="Dozen Wooden Chicken Faux Fake Eggs Kitchen Decor Beige" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=B003F1HEAA&tag=not0d2-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=not0d2-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B003F1HEAA" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=not0d2-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000A16RL0" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=not0d2-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0316166472" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> </div><br />
Add in a little organic shredded cheese, and you have yourself a great little meal. It's easy to serve too. He can take a pretty big piece of cheesy egg and mash it up with his two little teeth--I don't constantly worry about him choking. <br />
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There you have it...cheesy egg. Who says eggs are only for breakfast? In my house, try breakfast, lunch, and once in a while dinner!Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-83477317095366890472011-03-24T07:41:00.000-07:002011-03-24T07:41:00.271-07:00Another Use for Pizza CuttersTonight I was feeling lazy and didn't want to make dinner. I have yet another sore throat and just feel achy. Ahh, the joys of being a working mom to a 10-month old. I've never been so sick in my life. I seem to catch everything that travels around his daycare.<br />
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Anyway, I took little Jack up to the grocery store after work/school and we picked up some bean and cheese burritos for dinner (a guilty pleasure). When we got home I heated his up in the microwave, but I wasn't sure how to cut it up. A knife would be so messy, so...I figured out a new use for the pizza cutter. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/OXO-50781-SteeL-Pizza-Wheel/dp/B0000E2GYL?ie=UTF8&tag=not0d2-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" target="_blank"><img alt="Oxo SteeL Pizza Wheel" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=B0000E2GYL&tag=not0d2-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=not0d2-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0000E2GYL" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">It worked great! It cut right through the warm tortilla without a mess. Next time I make anytime of mexican with tortillas, I plan on using these suckers for Jack's food.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Speaking of Jack and food, he is gobbling everything up in sight. At first I was sad to stop the baby food, but now it's a complete joy. Every time he eats something new, it's so exciting.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy slicing!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6529190406088421086.post-43580811092619524772011-03-23T07:41:00.000-07:002011-03-23T07:43:05.240-07:00Mama Scored a New Job!I've been doing my current job for a little while, and I love it, but a new one in my company came along that I just had to have...and I got it! I'm actually going to be working within the social media space, a big passion of mine.<br />
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With a new job comes new responsibility, including travel. It's been a while since I've had to travel, and I'm actually really excited. I think it will be manageable--a night here and there in different cities. <br />
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With travel comes the need for a new overnight bag. No way am I going to have time to check bags. Preferably there is one out there with wheels too.... I found this one on Amazon, but basically found the same one at T.J. Maxx for half the price!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Kensington-62903-Overnight-Suitcase-Notebook/dp/B0009JR5K0?ie=UTF8&tag=not0d2-20&link_code=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969" imageanchor="1" target="_blank"><img alt="Kensington 62903 Contour Overnight Roller Suitcase and Notebook Carrying Case" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL160_&ASIN=B0009JR5K0&tag=not0d2-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=not0d2-20&l=bil&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0009JR5K0" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Carries a laptop, clothes, and hopefully my jogging shoes. I plan on getting my jogs in on the road when I can.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy travels!</div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06823790301275934884noreply@blogger.com0