tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20109927131553424062024-03-12T19:03:23.114-05:00Dibs!Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.comBlogger210125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-70526247387814829092014-09-16T15:55:00.001-05:002014-09-16T15:55:46.007-05:00September Birchbox ReviewI love this month's box. They let me choose it this month. I had an option to take this box, or to be surprised and get a different combination, but I ADORE the silver Cynthia Rowley eyeliner and my mascara is running on low. I usually love surprises, but this box looked perfect for me and I actually forgot what I had chosen by the time I opened it!<br />
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Cynthia Rowley eyeliner in silver- I love it so much- it's so creamy and stays put for hours. <br />Laura Mercier Mascara- I haven't tried this yet.<br />
dr Brandt pores no more vacuum cleaner- haven't tried this yet, but it sounds good.<br />
Naobay lotion- I've gotten this in other month's boxes and am happy for the spare.<br />
Macadamia Cleansing Conditioner- it's to be used in wet hair instead of shampoo and conditioner- sounds interesting, I've never tried something like this before.<br />
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Yay!! I always love <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/invite/j2fzj">Birchbox</a>!<br />
<br />Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-49723958818525740352014-09-16T15:50:00.001-05:002014-09-16T15:50:35.048-05:00September Citrus Lane ReviewHere is what we got in this month's <a href="https://www.citruslane.com/invitedby/Katie.Stramer">Citrus Lane!</a><br />
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V is 7 months old, but I went back one month on her birth date when we signed up this month.<br />
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We got a gorgeous<b> Tea Collection bodysuit </b>+ a coupon for $25 off a $50 purchase at Tea Collection.<br />
<b>Fleet Stacking Boats from Boon</b> - I actually just gave these as a baby gift and had wanted to get some for my girls, so that's great!<br />
<b>Radish Dish Soap sample from Mrs Meyer</b>s and a <b>baby food pouch from Happy Family</b>.<br />
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Super happy with this month!! I also got a coupon for a free box, so I'll be able to get a box next month, too! We love <a href="https://www.citruslane.com/invitedby/Katie.Stramer">Citrus Lane</a>!Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-50168688304255426942014-04-03T13:27:00.002-05:002014-04-03T13:35:10.478-05:00I guess it's paying offI guess it's paying off. The hours I've spent reading, thinking about and discussing Motherhood and what kind of mama I want to be.<br />
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I just swept up my late grandmother's antique crystal butter dish. I knew it was risky to use it with littles in the house, but every reminder of her kind heart helps me along in my day. She was steadfast in her faith and she loved being with us. Plus, I'm tired of storing things. If something is special, I want to use it and emjoy it instead of tucking things away to get dusty and forgotten.<br />
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The girls were eating lunch while I was pumping so the baby can eat while I'm at work tonight. I just needed a few minutes of quiet. My 2 year old is in a whiny phase where she's not really sure what she wants, but making the whole house know that she is needy is top priority. Daddy is at work all day so he wasn't here to help with lunch like he usually is. I heard a crash and my first thought was a mug. I was hoping it wasn't my favorite color of Fiestaware. I hadn't even thought of the butter dish.<br />
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I made it down the hallway to the kitchen and saw my almost-5-year-old with a scared look on her face. As soon as our eyes met she started wailing. I saw the pieces scattered around the floor. She was so scared that I would be angry. I've told her at least 458 times to not climb up and try to get things from the cupboard. Instead of hollering like I wanted to, I got on the floor and held her while we cried together. It's just stuff. I'm not angry, just sad. A dish and a heart could have been broken today, but I held my tongue and showed grace even when it was hard to do. Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-1945457262501727752014-03-27T12:52:00.002-05:002014-03-27T12:52:47.805-05:00A birth storyViolet Caroline's Birth Story - My second home water birth ~ My third girl<br />
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<i>This got loooong. I can't help it. It was one of the best days of my life and I don't want to forget anything.</i><br />
<br />
Wednesday
was a long, hard day. I was extra tired. I had cancelled plans with a
friend, and totally ditched out on calling my parents- they had wanted
to visit the girls. It's been a long winter and I'd never been so
pregnant before, since both girls were born during the 38th week I
hadn't expected to go to 40 weeks, let alone 3 days past. It's funny
how different every pregnancy is, even though it's your same body doing
the work. I had just spent 6 weeks terribly sick with a virus or
something, and I was finally feeling better and wanted my baby here!!<br />
<br />
I
had 2 bouts of good, strong, every-3-minute contractions in the week
before, but each time they fizzled out at the perfect time to avoid
chaos. One night they stopped when our 2 year old woke up and couldn't
stop coughing, and the other time was when my husband had to take a
Friday evening to fix a sewer issue and we had nasty water in the
basement and 4 loads of yucky laundry to do. It was disappointing to
have them fizzle both times, but in my heart I knew those would have
been really bad times to have a baby. I called my midwife the morning
after the first spurt to tell her something was brewing, and she said it
was my body getting things positioned right and moving baby lower.<br />
<br />
We
went Wednesday evening to visit a friend who just had a baby girl. Her
due date was a week after mine and her baby was born a week before
mine. We brought them supper and I joked that holding the baby would
give me good baby having vibes. We went to the mall and walked around
after that and I was pretty tired. It took a lot of work to keep
moving, but I really needed to get some cupcakes after thinking about
them all day and I knew walking could only help me at this point.<br />
<br />
We went home, got the girls to bed, I ate a lot of mini cupcakes, and we went to bed at about midnight, suspecting nothing.<br />
<br />
At
4 AM I woke up to a pop and a gush. My water broke while I was
sleeping! I hobbled to the bathroom to assess the situation and attempt
to clean myself up. I grabbed a towel and came back to our room to
tell Bryan what happened. I may have thrown a tiny fit about it
happening this way. My water broke with my first baby and we went
straight to the hospital where they only gave me a few hours for
contractions to start, then started me on Pitocin, so I was a little
scared of how things would progress. We just started praying for
contractions to come and I read in a few of my books about broken
waters, and most of them said labor would start within 24 hours. I
worried about how I'd get through the next day with leaking amniotic
fluid. How will I parent like this, How will I cut hair like THIS at
work tonight?!<br />
<br />
I rested on the couch for awhile and
thought about what was to come. Bryan and I talked about whether or not
he should plan on going to work in a few hours, we talked about what
needed to happen with the house to get ready- the birth pool needed to
be pulled into the living room and filled, and there were toys
everywhere. Life with littles. <3 p=""><br />I
ended up back in bed shortly after to try to sleep, but by 5:20 I was
having contractions every 2-4 minutes. Some were stronger than others.
I decided to let our midwife, Paulette sleep until 6- then I would call
her. Bryan was not on board with this, he wanted me to call her right
away because she lives pretty far away. I wanted to make sure this was
*it* and let her get a little more rest. At 6:10, I gave her a call and
told her my water had broken and contractions were coming every 2
minutes but weren't super painful yet.<br /><br />She said she wouldn't be
able to make it in time because the roads were awful and that I should
call her apprentice, Miranda who lives 20ish minutes away. We hung up, I
pouted for about 5 minutes, then got a hold of myself. I had said I <b>wanted</b>
this to happen. I had been telling Bryan for a few months that I would
love to have our midwife, but if it means a shorter labor, I would be
110% comfortable with her apprentice who I've grown to be really good
friends with. I just wanted to get it done!<br /><br />
Paulette called me back just a bit later and told me to call Miranda
right away, because Miranda would have to go in to work soon and it
would be easier for her the sooner we called. She also said she was
planning to come to our town that day anyways, so she would be on her
way as soon as the snow plows came through. She said she'd be praying
for me, that she'd be in touch, and that she would come see us as soon
as she gets to town.<br />
<br />
I called Miranda right away and asked her if she'd like to come catch a
baby. :) I also told her we were thinking about having her bring her
little sister to help out with the girls. I told her to not come right
away because I wasn't sure how far we were in this process and that I'd
call her back when we were ready for her to come and to let her know for
sure about her sister. I really liked laboring all alone with Bryan
during my last labor, so I was holding off on bringing help in too soon.<br />
<br />
We went downstairs and
talked about it a little more and tried to decide what to do. I took a
quick shower and polished two of my toenails that had chipped polish.
Bryan was like "REALLY?!" Haha! We were
also trying to decide if we should ask Miranda to bring her
sister to help out with our girls. We REALLY wanted them here for the
birth, but we were unsure how a 2 and 4 year old would handle it. I
also was thinking if we had to transfer for some reason, bringing the
girls would not be good or convenient and I needed someone here for
them.. We
had several people offer to come be with them, or take them places, but
we knew we needed to wait until we were in these moments to make our
choice.<br />
<br />
About 20 minutes later, things had picked up considerably and I called
her back to ask her to start on her way over and to bring her sister
with for the girls. Somewhere here, our 2 year old woke up. I gave her
kisses and daddy took her back to her bed and got her settled back in.
I was mostly staying in bed now, resting. The contractions were
getting very strong. I got up and took a few short, hot showers and
went to the bathroom a few times. I tried sitting on the couch for
awhile, too. Laying in bed is what felt the best, so I stayed there
most of the time, just breathing and "floating" through the rushes. I
was trying really hard to try to gauge where I was at by comparing it
to Hazel's labor, but this time was so much more intense. I was
afraid to make myself think I was further than I actually was and run
out of power, but I figured I was getting pretty close. I was starting
to get nauseated around this time and I was also very hungry, but afraid
to eat because of the nausea. I knew what the nausea meant-
Transition!! I was having a hard time believing I could be THAT close
to having our baby!<br />
<br />
I'm not sure what time Miranda came, but it must have been shortly after
8. It was perfect timing. I was in a lot of pain and was still in
bed, under a huge soft blanket. I had just told Bryan a few minutes
before that I needed her here soon, I was starting to get a little bit
scared- I remember that feeling with Hazel, too. I was hot, then cold,
then hot over and over and Miranda came and stood next to my bed and
was rubbing my leg telling me I was doing a great job and that the
hot/cold cycles meant I was getting closer. I was starting to make
noise during the contractions- they were really intense. <br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Bryan cleaned the living room, did a ton of other random
little jobs, and pulled the birthing tub to the living room and was
filling it and probably praying that we'd have enough hot water!<br />
<br />
Olivia woke up and came out of her room and I was the first thing she
saw. I told her to not be scared, that mommy was in labor and she would
have another baby sister soon. She said something like "I wondered if
this was happening!" I got a quick kiss from her and she went
downstairs with our helper. Seeing her excitement gave me an extra
boost of bravery.<br />
<br />
I wasn't in bed much longer before I told Miranda I needed to be doing
something different, and asked if the pool was ready for me. Bryan had
it ready to go in just a few more minutes, so I hobbled out to the
living room and got in. Best. Feeling. Ever. The warm water brought so
much comfort and relief. Hazel woke up shortly after, got a kiss from
mama, and went downstairs to play. <br /> <br />Not long after I got in
the pool I was starting to push involuntarily. It HURT and I couldn't
believe it was happening so soon. I was kind of trying to hold them
back because my head couldn't wrap around the fact that I could be this
far already. Miranda told me to let my body push and she went to the
kitchen to get the tools. She came back and I asked her if she could
see anything yet and she said she couldn't. She got out a pair of
gloves, and laid everything out and I was thinking "THIS IS IT!!!" I
noticed tons of white flakes floating in the water and we figured out it
was bits of vernix that were coming out with my contractions. It was
pretty cool!<br />
<br />
Soon, my noises changed and things were happening. Bryan said I started
making Xena : Warrior Princess noises. HAHA! Miranda told me that baby
was right there and to go ahead and start putting some power into the
pushing urges. I pushed with the next few urges and Miranda just keep
encouraging me. I remember saying "it's on fiiiiiiiiiiiire!!" Miranda
had me stop for a second because the cord was over her shoulders. She
freed it, and Violet was born into the water just a few pushes later at
9:38AM. I reached down and pulled my beautiful baby to my chest and we
started rubbing her back and talking to her- she pinked up pretty
fast. I was still in shock at how fast the whole labor and birth had
gone. She was so beautiful and she was here, in my arms, after all
these months.<br />
<i><br /></i>When I delivered Hazel, I had trouble in the pushing stage
because I couldn't quite get my bearings in the pool. I didn't know
what to hold onto or how to position myself. This time it just worked
so much better for me- It was almost EASY and this baby was a few ounces bigger. I'm not sure if it's because I was more
prepared, if baby was in a better position, or if it's because we forgot to use the pool liner and I had
more traction. The pushing stage this time felt quicker to me, too. I felt like a rock star!<br />
<br />
Bryan ran downstairs to get the girls right away. It was so much fun to
see them react to their new baby sister. Olivia said "Thank you God
for our new baby!" Paulette called around this time and Miranda got to
tell her the news!<br />
<br />
We put a few towels over baby to help her stay warm on my chest while I
regained my strength to deliver the placenta. I took off the bra I had
been wearing so we could have skin to skin and we tried nursing right
away, but Violet wasn't interested yet. We snuggled for a long time,
but it was getting cold. Once I was strong enough to get up we double
checked that the cord had stopped pulsing, then Daddy cut it, and took
Violet so I could go to the bathroom and deliver the placenta. <br />
<br />
Miranda and I checked that my bleeding was normal, got me cleaned up,
dressed, and in bed with Violet where she nursed immediately. I had a
hard time getting my other girls to latch, so this was a huge deal to me
to nurse right after her birth. I was SO hungry- I ate several bananas
and a handful of string cheeses and we talked about how stinking FAST
that was! We weighed her and were shocked when the scale said 8
pounds, 11 ounces! She didn't look that big to us! Paulette made it to
town a few hours later and came right to our house to check on baby and
I-she confirmed everything was great!<br />
<br />
The birth was absolutely incredible. It was fast and hard and just what
I needed. It was perfect for Violet and I. I'm honored to be the 2nd
birth that Miranda has attended on her own. Bryan and I love
homebirth. It's so nice to be tucked into your own bed afterwards and
have all your own things right there. I loved having our big girls home
with us the whole time- knowing they were asleep in the house/playing
happily in the basement was so comforting to me- to know they'd get to
see her right when she was freshly born. <br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/RRCX7IikWOE" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />
</3>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-78886810241141421842014-03-24T00:05:00.002-05:002014-03-24T00:05:39.015-05:00Subscription Boxes : Citrus Lane and bluum - get them for 50% OFF!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm excited to share a new box that I discovered ~ <a href="http://bluum.me/1fMPfcM">bluum</a>!! I was able to get my first box for 50% off- so it was just over $12. <b>You can get it 50% off with this <a href="http://bluum.me/1fMPfcM">link</a>!</b><br /> <br />I got it for our newest baby, she is just over 5 weeks. (birth story coming soon!) We got a Boppy bumblebee rattle, a super soft white onesie, a book with tips for stay at home moms, a Luna bar, and my favorite item- Hello Baby flashcards. It's a ring of pictures to show baby. We have been having a blast showing our newest addition the pictures and watching her react! Awesome box for<a href="http://bluum.me/1fMPfcM"> $12</a>! The retail value on this box is listed at $47 - Can't go wrong!</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvbkpW3Lc6jhuMeVIYdpCYGpromLhjC9PYgqrbXRsRVrIjzvhifdy59UOX0UP0sB7QC-hnn7I5Z33PSHP8XefGQHXpD-NfHCSibi2zQvkZQ8P8YAsWMkjX6fz_Hkx4eG5Z6ht5Eg7rRHQ/s1600/0321141216-00.jpg" height="240" width="320" /><br /><br /><br />This month I got <a href="https://www.citruslane.com/invitedby/Katie.Stramer">Citrus Lane</a>, too. They sent me a 50% off code and I couldn't resist. (<b>you can use <a href="https://www.citruslane.com/invitedby/Katie.Stramer">this link</a> to get 50% off your first box!!</b>) I've gotten Citrus Lane 5 times and I always love it. The code brought my box to just $14. |<br /><br />I put in my almost 5 year old daughter's birthdate because her birthday is coming up and I wanted to start stashing some fun things for gifts. I got a memory game, a fun little book with stickers to make your own story, a super neat car, and my favorite item- a little manicure set with files, a brush and some non toxic polish. She is gonna LOVE it! Also, not pictured, but for $2.75 I was able to use some credits and get her a little insulated lunch bag for taking snacks to the zoo all summer!</div>
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I also got <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/invite/j2fzj">Birchbox </a>this month, but forgot to take pictures. It wasn't a very fun month. LOL</div>
<br />Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-76770495815759617412013-10-20T21:43:00.003-05:002013-10-20T21:43:41.708-05:00What I Got : October ~ Citrus Lane and Birchbox<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
First up, Citrus Lane!! I was really happy with this month's box! Gripe Water was on my shopping list this week, so I was excited to get it in our box! </div>
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The girls love the Odd Duck from Boon because he's funny and I like him because he's sealed up so he can't get icky inside! We actually just threw away a ton of bath toys because we were sick of them getting grimy.<br />
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The other two toys are really sweet and will be great for Baby #3. We have a lot of baby toys, but nothing quite like these. They both rattle and will be great to teethe on. This is exactly what I wanted from this subscription - a few gender neutral things for the new baby. So sweet!<br />
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They have also been emailing me every month with special offers that I can add on to my box. Last month's was Aden and Anias products with an awesome discount. I passed on it because we don't know baby's gender...but otherwise it would have been a great add-on!<br />
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<a href="https://www.citruslane.com/invitedby/Katie.Stramer">Use my Citrus Lane link and we both get $10 off our next box!!</a></h3>
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<a href="http://birch.ly/10WZnbY">Birchbox</a>! I got an awesome moisture mask that was fun to use in my Friday night bath. A chapstick, 12 Benefits which is a great detangling spray/leave in conditioner, some sunblock and a pretty pink lip gloss! It's always fun to get Birchbox, and for only $10 a month it's not a bad deal! <br />
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What I especially love about Birchbox is you get to leave reviews for every product you get in your boxes and you get 10 points each. 100 points = $10 to spend in their shop, so I get a lot of free stuff as time goes on. You also get points for referring friends, purchasing in the shop, and there are special ways to get bonuses during promotions, too!<br />
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<br />Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-14106878122185085262013-10-16T11:05:00.002-05:002013-10-16T11:13:19.465-05:00What I got - September - Citrus Lane + an announcement<div style="text-align: center;">
Since my October box just shipped, I figured now would be a good time to share my September box contents! Just a little late. ;) </div>
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We've gotten Citrus Lane once before and I was super happy with what we got, so I decided to give it another try. We are excited to announce that <span style="background-color: lime;"><b><span style="font-weight: normal;">BABY #3</span></b></span><span style="background-color: cyan;"></span><span style="color: lime;"> </span>is on the way and I wanted to get a few new, fun baby things, so I chose a gender neutral box and put January as the month of birth.</div>
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<img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCIuZs4EdJEvqxpdi6Hb5OrhtaIk8RGCHw60Mlgc3rGBdWlp3pSNJAQSW3yhuQqNmSlSAROa1AcabR5h99iewwYeT1UV8VdX4Z4MIP1vcFdXNf3O-bIfLosIhf_00Xad693GPICG3FxlM/s320/DSC_5198.JPG" width="320" /></div>
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We got::</div>
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a Skip Hop Chime Ball</div>
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Episencial Playful Wash<br />
diaper rash cream</div>
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a Julep nail polish for mama<br />
a board book</div>
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Overall, I was really happy with this month's box! We always need more books and natural baby wash. The Chime Ball and baby wash alone retail for $10 each, so I feel like I got a good deal. Plus, it's super fun to get a surprise box of baby things. By Baby #3, there aren't a lot of things that we *need* ...unless baby turns out to be a boy. (We aren't finding out until birth.)<br />
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My October box should be here within a few days! Looking forward to sharing it with you! </div>
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<b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://www.citruslane.com/invitedby/Katie.Stramer">Sign up with my link and get $10 off Citrus Lane!</a></span></b></h2>
Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-9457160749302508052013-07-27T23:45:00.002-05:002013-07-27T23:49:19.453-05:00The Vintage Honey Shop ~ Nursing Necklace Review<div style="text-align: center;">
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<em>The <a href="http://www.thevintagehoneyshop.com/">Vintage Honey Shop</a> is a place to buy handcrafted paper & fabric items. The owners of The Vintage Honey Shop are not only best friends, but sister-in-laws! <a href="http://www.thevintagehoneyshop.com/p/about.html">Jennifer & Melissa</a> make every handcrafted item with love and care! They will also do custom work for you!</em> </div>
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I haven't done a review for awhile! I am so excited to be sharing <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thevintagehoneyshop">The Vintage Honey Shop</a> with my readers~ These necklaces are totally adorable AND functional for your baby! They are perfect for the teething baby who needs to chew on something safe. They also make a great breastfeeding necklace for babies that like to play with something while they nurse. I also love wearing these baby friendly necklaces when I babywear to distract baby from pulling my hair.</div>
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They make fabric teething necklaces with <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheVintageHoneyShop?section_id=12472021">wooden rings</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheVintageHoneyShop?section_id=11893831">without wooden rings</a>. Their work is gorgeous. There are TONS of fabric options, even some <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheVintageHoneyShop?section_id=12970334">organic </a>choices. Their necklaces are made so perfectly, they are *flawless*! I don't even wear regular jewelry right now because my kids are so grabby. These necklaces are perfect to give me a little style without sacrificing my necklace to the baby, plus they are GREAT for teething!</div>
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They also make some incredible <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheVintageHoneyShop?section_id=7910690">paper goods</a> like cupcake toppers and sweet little pinwheels!</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheVintageHoneyShop?section_id=12285433">Gorgeous bracelets</a>, too! </div>
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My <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/123446691/dots-teething-ring-necklace-for?ref=shop_home_active">package</a> came and it was wrapped all pretty. That is special to me ~ The extra touch is lovely. These would make a great gift and they are pre-wrapped! (*wink*wink* to my friends and family reading this) My camera batteries were dead the day it came and I could. not. wait. to open it, thus the webcam photo.</div>
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Baby was as always, more than happy to get wrapped and chew on something! She really went to town! I have several teething necklaces, but none quite like this. I think she likes it. :) <br />
Happy Baby = Happy Mama!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2X412I1purMsct_8e0nXBoFtxETVwQQI-EAQyE7_mhCfZcJFsW_8Z0psxRpQlV7EwuP8idE30rQDJTyg1nr6YBwPsaYdBwwSRg3NfId90tiJiZsoRVEhQnuY1B_5bMSm4pzjkdCxnnls/s1600/DSC_4590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2X412I1purMsct_8e0nXBoFtxETVwQQI-EAQyE7_mhCfZcJFsW_8Z0psxRpQlV7EwuP8idE30rQDJTyg1nr6YBwPsaYdBwwSRg3NfId90tiJiZsoRVEhQnuY1B_5bMSm4pzjkdCxnnls/s320/DSC_4590.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HfdwI803owjw2BE5OH0bLDAfuS2Zzl-G0zl6vdw6Tt00iV01oM_PFdQCBc-_jtDxwUfPk6snDSpdvaKAK-og0EWwR4vT2JTTuB7_lPhsgjbGuFzlCLQ6MEopKP-BLK2elKHJlBQYo9Q/s1600/DSC_4587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HfdwI803owjw2BE5OH0bLDAfuS2Zzl-G0zl6vdw6Tt00iV01oM_PFdQCBc-_jtDxwUfPk6snDSpdvaKAK-og0EWwR4vT2JTTuB7_lPhsgjbGuFzlCLQ6MEopKP-BLK2elKHJlBQYo9Q/s320/DSC_4587.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvoBqqgCOebqsK0i5jX8ADWRgjlTV3YNtqIU7IjbqBVuOw210uFNvFj-Vmq_ImLkZv64UaKd71VKFNaXeYS9C2jWBl9h6-mHiDUPVj4e8PjzVknFuFRFaRebeonTFpKoHKI54ulS-F5g/s1600/DSC_4584+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvoBqqgCOebqsK0i5jX8ADWRgjlTV3YNtqIU7IjbqBVuOw210uFNvFj-Vmq_ImLkZv64UaKd71VKFNaXeYS9C2jWBl9h6-mHiDUPVj4e8PjzVknFuFRFaRebeonTFpKoHKI54ulS-F5g/s320/DSC_4584+-+Copy.JPG" width="288" /></a><br />
For anyone wondering, this is my size 4 Sustain.bow wrap, and the carry is a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnNIMyk-WjI">Double Hammock</a> - my go-to back carry.</div>
<br />Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-16585979410322636502013-06-14T22:55:00.000-05:002013-06-14T22:56:12.299-05:00June Birchbox and Ipsy<span style="font-size: large;">I love subscription boxes!</span> I'm always looking for new ones to try, so if you have any recommendations, please let me know!!<br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">I've tried 1 month of <a href="https://www.citruslane.com/invitedby/Katie.Stramer">Citrus Lane</a> (<i>which we LOVED- I'm planning to get it again soon. Use my link for $10 off</i>!) and 1 month of <a href="http://popsu.gr/bRjN">PopSugar Must Have</a>. I've gotten <a href="https://www.consciousbox.com/?acc=48aedb8880cab8c45637abc7493ecddd">Conscious Box</a> a few times- use coupon code "GETAWAYFREE" for a free-for-shipping Conscious Box! . I'm on my 7th or so<a href="http://www.ipsy.com/?refer=u-h1o64tpqkz4lppg"> Ipsy</a><a href="http://www.ipsy.com/?refer=u-h1o64tpqkz4lppg">,</a> and I've gotten <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=j2fzj">Birchbox</a>
since last summer. It's a fun way for me to spoil myself a little
every month.</span></h4>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Birchbox - postcards, a perfume sample, a nail polish, a stain and wash bar, an amazing face scrub, and dry shampoo! I'm super happy with this month's box! I think my favorite item is probably the face scrub. Least favorite would be the perfume sample. The polish color is brighter in real life and I'm excited to wear it!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTzv80oxwoLZlAICe2CrLCtMEWLRh_Oac7yCbPkf-m-M7CkyA2wpaVuVgxvz9O9CV4kEsVluS6jrM_drA7Tx_BDYZsbeFcosMvHoJLCp2al7SHj424e_qFldoNDFoRiVP-hezr1Mhxilk/s1600/Resize_0614131743-00_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTzv80oxwoLZlAICe2CrLCtMEWLRh_Oac7yCbPkf-m-M7CkyA2wpaVuVgxvz9O9CV4kEsVluS6jrM_drA7Tx_BDYZsbeFcosMvHoJLCp2al7SHj424e_qFldoNDFoRiVP-hezr1Mhxilk/s1600/Resize_0614131743-00_01.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Ipsy - always comes with a makeup bag- I think this leopard one is one of the best I've gotten! Dry shampoo, lip liner, a highlighting pencil, blush and a glitter palette. I'm the most excited about the glitter palette, and the other items are all other things I will totally use. Love it!</span></div>
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Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-52614751779125350312013-06-14T17:52:00.005-05:002013-06-14T18:21:32.777-05:00Another Garage Sale Post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhAod0lewK9RXtyyRwcOtGPpV423cVwEGtk3m-7cS6PIE7MOdLyT1BmGZzedy-hdH41OhdAcy2jfH0t9FNBNOC_2CY4riA2XmY96fPwK8_Tyd_9DF2UzCs3XFF2bFOLjVgQIlp5-eTf7A/s1600/Resize_0614131741-00_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhAod0lewK9RXtyyRwcOtGPpV423cVwEGtk3m-7cS6PIE7MOdLyT1BmGZzedy-hdH41OhdAcy2jfH0t9FNBNOC_2CY4riA2XmY96fPwK8_Tyd_9DF2UzCs3XFF2bFOLjVgQIlp5-eTf7A/s1600/Resize_0614131741-00_01.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></i></div>
<i>Today's Garage Sale Haul!!</i><br />
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My best friend and I hit the streets again today. We got awesome stuff! I spent about $18 and got:<br />
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* a few tennis balls for my kiddos<br />
* a travel booster seat -we needed an extra one<br />
*a boogie board - we've been wanting one for our pool<br />
*a set of hand bells -one is missing, but I didn't mind for $4! It will be a great addition to our instrument basket<br />
* an almost new tray of rainbow pony beads <br />
*a super cute tunic/dress for me<br />
*2 mugs - one is Fiestaware and only cost me a dime- will be a great addition to our collection <br />
*a handful of kid's clothes<br />
*a gorgeous crochet blanket that will be great for my "mama corner"<br />
*a pile of books - one is a book I had as a child and have been wishing I had for my kids! Couldn't find it on Amazon, but found it at a rummage sale for a dime!Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-61651352092084240832013-05-31T20:10:00.002-05:002013-05-31T20:10:13.706-05:00Garage Sale Haul!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love seeing what people pick up at rummage sales, so I thought I'd start sharing! I usually hit a few every Friday ~ It's a great way to save money and it's FUN!</div>
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<br />I got up early this morning, grabbed a latte and met up with my Sister in Law in a town nearby. It was their city wide sale day, but it was rainy so there weren't as many sales as I had expected. If you are bringing kids, it's nice to have a buddy so you can tag team. </div>
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Today I spent about $15. Not pictured is a fabulous baby swing that I scored for only $5! I saw one just like it at Target for $30 last week!</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMKj3Xtmjp7EvI68Vxk_KQS8OL7ZHRr_munq-SEteYZGHWISMZm0mYVamCarydN2QTQ44S05zHM_kvrg8pQEAhXRsObFwygGqrnLkuhgj8geiNZnSkNxJj1atdkRFGTNsuGeF_8pILBEI/s1600/0531131212-00.jpg" height="240" width="320" /><br />2 dress up dresses in decent condition, 2 Bob The Builder tractors, a headband, 2 kid's books, a Hello Kitty lunchbox, rain boots, a tank top for me, 2 dresses and a pair of shorts bibs for my oldest, a sweatshirt and rashguard/bottoms set for my little lady, then 2 shirts and 2 pairs of jammies for my oldest!</div>
<br />Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-82678814243960938162013-05-20T11:53:00.002-05:002013-05-20T14:26:21.937-05:00MAY Birchbox and Ipsy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been loving subscription boxes lately. I've tried 1 month of <a href="https://www.citruslane.com/invitedby/Katie.Stramer">Citrus Lane</a> (<i>which we LOVED- I'm planning to get it again soon. Use my link for $10 off</i>!) and <a href="http://popsu.gr/bRjN">PopSugar Must Have</a>. I've gotten <a href="https://www.consciousbox.com/?acc=48aedb8880cab8c45637abc7493ecddd">Conscious Box</a> a few times. I'm on my 7th or so<a href="http://www.ipsy.com/?refer=u-h1o64tpqkz4lppg"> Ipsy</a><a href="http://www.ipsy.com/?refer=u-h1o64tpqkz4lppg">,</a> and I've gotten <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=j2fzj">Birchbox</a>
since last summer. It's a fun way for me to spoil myself a little
every month. </h4>
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This month, I only got Birchbox and Ipsy. </div>
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<a href="http://www.ipsy.com/?refer=u-h1o64tpqkz4lppg">IPSY!! Only $10/month</a> - Adorable bag. Using it as a coin purse for when the girls and I go to rummage sales this summer. Lovely pink lipstick by Mirabella. Juice Beauty gloss. Pacifica roll on perfume. Zoya nail polish. Yaby concealer. </div>
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I am super loving the lip products. Both are soft, pretty springy colors. The perfume is actually really nice- it's "Island Vanilla" - very summery. The nail polish isn't a color I'd normally chose, but I think it will grow on me. The concealer is too dark/yellow for my skin, but it makes a great primer for under my eyeshadow.</div>
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<a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=j2fzj">BIRCHBOX!! Only $10/month</a> - Comes in a box. Love the boxes. We use them for storing tiny toys/art stuff/beads. Amika Nourishing hair Mask. Sumita Eyeliner in black. Runa Guayusa Tea. COOLA SPF moisturizer. Marvis Toothpaste.</div>
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This month was fun. I've tried the Hair Mask before and loved it. I was able to deep condition my short hair 2 times, and my 4 year old's once. I love the smell and it works really well. Not super excited about another black eyeliner, but I can always use it. The tea is yummy!! There were 4 flavors in the sample and I've already enjoyed 2 of them. I honestly haven't tried the moisturizer yet. I'll save it for a super hot day when I need some sun protection on my shoulders. I'm also saving the toothpaste for our vacation this summer.<br />
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One of my favorite things about Birchbox is that you can leave feedback for each item and you get 10 points. So every month, I can earn 50 + points, just for leaving reviews on the samples they send! 100 points = $10 in their awesome store, and I often am able to get full size products for almost free! You also get 1 point per dollar you spend in the shop, and 50 points for referring a friend. Awesome rewards!! </div>
Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-24140999738501230392013-05-20T11:03:00.000-05:002013-05-20T11:10:43.483-05:00Do you need forgiveness ? A post about body image.<div style="text-align: center;">
A few weeks ago, I was at a store with my mom and we were looking at pajamas. I touched a pair and imagined how soft they would feel on my tired body at the end of the day and my mom commented "<i>Those look like they would be forgiving!</i>" I stopped, looked at her, and asked "<i>Do I need forgiveness?</i>" It caught her off guard, and she just kind of shrugged it off. I don't think she expected me to say anything like that. </div>
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The thing is, I DON'T need forgiveness. I've decided I'm too busy living my life with my beautiful girls to obsess over my weight. I just simply don't have time. I am a strong, beautiful woman. We eat healthy, we are active, and that's good. This is good! Yes, I'm "plus size", but even at my lightest weight I felt disgusting. It makes me so sad to look back at 17 year old me and remember how awful I felt about my body. </div>
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I am choosing to live in today. This DAY, this is how I look and who I am, and I accept it, and I choose to love it.
My girls deserve a mother who looks in the mirror and sees beauty and strength. They deserve to have an example set for them. Yes, I would love to have a firmer stomach, I'd love it if my arms looked as strong as they felt, I'd love to slip into a smaller dress size. But for now, this is me, and I choose to love me. I choose to set a positive example. I choose to teach these baby girls that their bodies are strong, their bodies are lovely, and their bodies are perfect. I don't think my mom has ever intentionally tried to say negative things about my body. I've also never seen her embrace her body or say something positive about her figure.</div>
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Our words have power. One negative comment can echo in your girl's mind for the rest of her life. Stop the cycle.</div>
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<i><br />Babywearing in our Didy Orient wrap. </i>
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<b>Just let it rock, girls! You are beautiful. Own it. Love yourself. Don't let today hold you back.</b>
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Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-16983302886825373362013-04-11T12:42:00.001-05:002013-04-30T14:40:08.088-05:00Subscription Boxes in APRIL - PopSugar Must Have, Birchbox, and Ipsy.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been loving subscription boxes lately. I've tried 1 month of <a href="https://www.citruslane.com/invitedby/Katie.Stramer">Citrus Lane</a> (<i>which we LOVED- I'm planning to get it again soon. Use my link for $10 off</i>!) and <a href="http://popsu.gr/bRjN">PopSugar Must Have</a>. I've gotten <a href="https://www.consciousbox.com/?acc=48aedb8880cab8c45637abc7493ecddd">Conscious Box</a><i> (25% off with code "BESTPLANET)</i> a few times. I'm on my 6th or so<a href="http://www.ipsy.com/?refer=u-h1o64tpqkz4lppg"> Ipsy</a>, and I've gotten <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=j2fzj">Birchbox</a> since last summer. It's a fun way for me to spoil myself a little every month. Here, I'll share what came so far this week. I'm still expecting a <a href="https://www.consciousbox.com/?acc=48aedb8880cab8c45637abc7493ecddd">Conscious Box </a>that I got for free through a great promo they did.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ipsy.com/?refer=u-h1o64tpqkz4lppg">Ipsy</a> : A <b>gorgeous pink polish, volumizing powder, a pretty pink blush, some shimmer powder, and a pretty makeup bag</b>. I liked it a lot this month. I love volumizing powder, and I haven't tried this brand yet. I was really happy to see a pretty bag- it seems like half of the ones I've gotten have been dark colors and black.<br />
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<a href="http://popsu.gr/bRjN"> Pop Sugar Must Have</a> : This one was a splurge for me. They are usually $35, but I had a $5 off coupon, so I went for it. (REFER5 to get $5 off) I had read tons of reviews, and was really excited to try it out. I'm pretty disappointed with what came in my box, but that's just how these things go. I did cancel my subscription already, because I just wasn't impressed and $30 is a LOT for me to spend on something like this. It had a <b>garment bag</b>- which will actually be nice for my husband, because he's been storing his suit jacket and nice shirts in plastic garment bags. A <b>bar of chocolate, a bracelet, a little bottle of perfume, and some blotting papers for your skin.</b> I read some other reviews of this month's box, and the value was $100 or so, but I'm not feeling it! It was worth a try.<br />
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<a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=j2fzj">Birchbox</a> : Definitely my favorite box this month. I always love my <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=j2fzj">Birchbox</a>. There was a <b>lip gloss, detangler spray, oil (for skin), macaroons, eye cream</b> and a free 1 year subscription to Women's Health magazine as a bonus.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This post contains referral links. :) I wasn't paid to do these reviews, I just like to read reviews of these kinds of boxes, so I figured I'd contribute back.</i></span></div>
Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-88480964736325977142013-04-10T11:57:00.003-05:002013-05-09T14:02:40.038-05:00*CLOSED* The Honey B Soap Company Review and Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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JoAnna was our random winner ~ she has been notified via email! </h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.thehoneybsoapcompany.com/">The Honey B Soap Company</a> is fairly local to me, so I am really <br />excited to be sharing this with you! </span></h4>
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She sent me an amazing package of goodies to try out!! It came on Valentine's Day and it made me feel special. :) The box had several <a href="http://www.thehoneybsoapcompany.com/soaps.html">soaps</a> : Coffee Scrub, Lavender, and Lemon Cedar Shave. A lovely <a href="http://www.thehoneybsoapcompany.com/wooden-soap-holders.html">wooden soap holder</a> to preserve the life of my soaps. An Orange Honey <a href="http://www.thehoneybsoapcompany.com/lotion-bars.html">Lotion Bar</a>, and a pack of<a href="http://www.thehoneybsoapcompany.com/kissy-lips-lip-balm.html"> Kissy Lips Lip Balm.</a>- (Passion Pink Plumper, Shimmer Sheer, Pucker Up Peppermint and Chocolate Lavender).</div>
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<i>The goods. </i></div>
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(I'm borrowing her individual product photos to share my thoughts on each one. </div>
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My pictures didn't turn out as nice as these ones.)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Mjzr61yxFFf0ofeo4GjRx7_kEy5_i4DI5-U3vnBhBBXqcNp9sclqQ_FD1Xx0-iuI9Ju5QrCNUgoX66TuerwmGT2CtFYYdZC0MEJIa52JAfmN9a18P59WH_u7FMEWdrFFw7W5hPGCUYg/s1600/1743394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Mjzr61yxFFf0ofeo4GjRx7_kEy5_i4DI5-U3vnBhBBXqcNp9sclqQ_FD1Xx0-iuI9Ju5QrCNUgoX66TuerwmGT2CtFYYdZC0MEJIa52JAfmN9a18P59WH_u7FMEWdrFFw7W5hPGCUYg/s1600/1743394.jpg" /></a></div>
The wooden soap holders are handmade by her father, which I think is super sweet! I keep my soaps on one, and they've lasted a long time because they don't sit there wet the whole time.<br />
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The Lemon Cedar Shave soap was one of my favorites! I love the fresh, lemony
scent and the lather is awesome for shaving my legs with. Silky smooth.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmnh7YvWWymTkjlNfHeGNMt5rS_rwVnfABrVU1XZSBB0zIJ_K5CPzy4BGpDHsVfMOOwpvQO4AWu8B2iRJUVyeUdO-_BzPoGwheI0a5aTYFmZeSVx_OzoKJrTZocN6eWddaXJZ192vsK58/s1600/2576777_orig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmnh7YvWWymTkjlNfHeGNMt5rS_rwVnfABrVU1XZSBB0zIJ_K5CPzy4BGpDHsVfMOOwpvQO4AWu8B2iRJUVyeUdO-_BzPoGwheI0a5aTYFmZeSVx_OzoKJrTZocN6eWddaXJZ192vsK58/s320/2576777_orig.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Lavender soap was my almost-4-year old's favorite. She loved the little flowers in there, and I LOVE that I can toss her a bar of soap that is safe and free from icky stuff!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ9zZEc0tUa9VWmp-oNMP12Q2Occu2ap2238S9uerqwK4t7t52eOOOV822g8PgnsqZE2a2yK60uv3ixXWZdma03m3sGTL64U1nhyphenhyphenyu01A8fBCtMoSlF6H22rOZZ9_TXVEPh8cEyaBOBG8/s1600/5651247_orig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ9zZEc0tUa9VWmp-oNMP12Q2Occu2ap2238S9uerqwK4t7t52eOOOV822g8PgnsqZE2a2yK60uv3ixXWZdma03m3sGTL64U1nhyphenhyphenyu01A8fBCtMoSlF6H22rOZZ9_TXVEPh8cEyaBOBG8/s320/5651247_orig.jpg" width="320" /><br />\</a>I love the Kissy Lips lip balms. They are soft and smooth, and all of the scents are wonderful. They don't have any flavor oil in them, just essential oils. The Pucker Up Peppermint one is cooling and refreshing. Love it!</div>
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Shimmer Sheer has just a hint of shimmer in it. So pretty. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUKlRxck3ylYEVJg-Shw4i1aVpQekV4R2TVILt_QDnbtHOjiu2uEpb2AR9OrWduQpW6-SkmME9G_iVKJumQZGgQ-CndRH4OeukkWHpdmT4HiHbxw3ekV0i9MFIra1tR1w9e8R8dzUkdmo/s1600/6701856_orig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUKlRxck3ylYEVJg-Shw4i1aVpQekV4R2TVILt_QDnbtHOjiu2uEpb2AR9OrWduQpW6-SkmME9G_iVKJumQZGgQ-CndRH4OeukkWHpdmT4HiHbxw3ekV0i9MFIra1tR1w9e8R8dzUkdmo/s320/6701856_orig.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I especially love that I can let my daughter wear them and not worry about what's in it. This Chocolate Lavender one is lovely!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBNI7JftjAQt8rdmh58oEJ4MVUqxZRWFjsHwWzLk17XBG4xinfFaSl4Ix9hb-ShHTy_lgnJ5TjlQJlQPSXdPeorLEF83Rk5lA1qXk66xHrDb4PLIIT55eY7WXFwvPKHwOhmRTnnODT7g/s1600/7211856_orig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBNI7JftjAQt8rdmh58oEJ4MVUqxZRWFjsHwWzLk17XBG4xinfFaSl4Ix9hb-ShHTy_lgnJ5TjlQJlQPSXdPeorLEF83Rk5lA1qXk66xHrDb4PLIIT55eY7WXFwvPKHwOhmRTnnODT7g/s320/7211856_orig.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I absolutely love the Coffee Scrub soap. It's got a good grit to it, without being too rough. I love coffee. :D I think this might be my favorite thing that she sent.</div>
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The Lotion Bar was fab. It leaves my skin super soft and I love the scent. It is great on the heels of your feet to soften them. It's not greasy or messy, and has lasted me a long time. The Orange Honey combo is such a pretty smell.</div>
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This Kissy Lips is super fun - it has cinnamon oil in it that plumps your lips naturally. It feels kind of tingly and leaves just a hint of color.</div>
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I'm so happy that I got to share this review with you all! AND I'm even happier that I found an awesome new place to buy soaps and body products from! A huge thank you to <a href="http://www.thehoneybsoapcompany.com/index.html">The Honey B Soap Company</a> for hooking me up with an awesome review package AND for her patience with me getting this post up!</h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">She also has things like <a href="http://www.thehoneybsoapcompany.com/whipped-body-butter.html">Whipped Body Butter</a>, <a href="http://www.thehoneybsoapcompany.com/body-scrubs.html">Body Scrub</a>, and <a href="http://www.thehoneybsoapcompany.com/bath-salts-and-oils.html">Bath Salts</a>. Check out the <a href="http://www.thehoneybsoapcompany.com/deals-and-bargins.html">Deals and Bargains</a> page for specials! </span></span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">CLICK "Read More" to enter to win your choice of <a href="http://www.thehoneybsoapcompany.com/soaps.html">3 SOAPS</a> + a <a href="http://www.thehoneybsoapcompany.com/wooden-soap-holders.html">wooden soap holder</a>!!</span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a name='more'></a><a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/9fdb2c51/" id="rc-9fdb2c51" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br /><script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script></span></h2>
<br />Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-41886423252191217042013-04-03T21:20:00.002-05:002013-04-03T21:20:25.862-05:00What a difference a year makes!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm ONLY a month late on sharing these pictures...I've been so busy, but am trying to get caught up on my blog posts. I thought this would be a neat post - My girls last year, then this year in their matching heart shirts from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MyBeautifulGirl">My Beautiful Girl.</a> I can't believe they still fit both girls. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgshR81DYTmOZ4ONuGKXPZn6ZtLb-XnMxpSEngabj1OBHO9Qyk-nhYrayHIa9S8-gb8AsX3tsPX9GPb0PTYSx73QyZBVd6lZzRbrBemL9nRlX0AhlLkad8PujbRvQ4sI0K6MwkcR76vZvk/s320/DSCN8556.JPG" width="320" /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRWHV7hfCjspxWzo1dmzXjCd8n-UrUsKOTqvtKgn1pRr4WB_4r103asZwee8l2L3lqYT5GGOm60B0PZ8HnmI5GIngQjjg90vJVSM4dlqITUp8QXnGMmJENNfaAwCQBIDFITlI2nb8L8g/s1600/DSC_3124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRWHV7hfCjspxWzo1dmzXjCd8n-UrUsKOTqvtKgn1pRr4WB_4r103asZwee8l2L3lqYT5GGOm60B0PZ8HnmI5GIngQjjg90vJVSM4dlqITUp8QXnGMmJENNfaAwCQBIDFITlI2nb8L8g/s320/DSC_3124.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-42273956950445184132013-03-15T22:20:00.001-05:002013-03-15T22:20:26.781-05:00March Birchbox !<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I forgot to share my February Birchbox, so I am sharing my March one right away before I forget!! It just came yesterday. Super fun!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMLMb5yW2H8KMAse4HnO_s6HOkTL28k5a__Y8EtjSYmPe88J2He7TQOvQ9TMKr9DtWzjG_usiph5pAQqzmxGjuTOVcSObQ8qSo3OdW5XMq5lp6LyqBgdLtMlSeN0FgbDumO4DBjaciauw/s1600/Resize_0314131305-00_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMLMb5yW2H8KMAse4HnO_s6HOkTL28k5a__Y8EtjSYmPe88J2He7TQOvQ9TMKr9DtWzjG_usiph5pAQqzmxGjuTOVcSObQ8qSo3OdW5XMq5lp6LyqBgdLtMlSeN0FgbDumO4DBjaciauw/s1600/Resize_0314131305-00_01.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I've been getting <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=j2fzj">Birchbox</a> since late last summer- I have loved every month so far, and am planning to keep it coming. It's $10 a month and when you <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/?raf=j2fzj">sign up</a> you fill out a brief survey with your beauty style, age, hair type, etc. They hook you up with 5-6 beauty samples every month.<br />
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This month I got a pretty emery board, a sample of MAKE cream lipstick (loving it!), a sample of MAKE eye makeup remover (tried it tonight, and it's good), Sage + Fasten Common Sense perfume sample (smells pretty), and 2 Macadamia Natural Oil samples - a healing oil treatment, and a hair mask that my daughter and I split tonight. Both of our hair feels so silky soft after using it!Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-92164066486894757092013-02-27T21:05:00.001-06:002013-02-27T21:05:20.171-06:00Stealing a momentI've been busy. Too busy. I've been taking care of the girls + trying to keep up on dishes/laundry/housework + working part time + sitting down to nurse 18 times a day + feeding our family, etc. Rinse, Lather, Repeat<br />
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Some nights I crawl into bed, aching, and realize I've hardly spent any one on one time playing with my almost 4 year old. It breaks my mama heart, and I promise myself to do better. Then another day goes by, and on and on. There always seems to be something in the way of me sitting down to relax with her, even just for a few minutes. I'm trying REALLY hard to change that. I've been buying fun little board games because that is an easy way for me to spend good time with her.<br />
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Tonight I caught a free moment. The baby was asleep, the house was quiet. She was just kind of wandering around and I put aside my laundry, laptop and thoughts and scooped her up. I set her up on the counter and ran for the Piggy Paint stash. She saw what I was up to and was suddenly all smiles. Melt. My. Heart. We polished her fingers and toes and I told her some of the things I love about her and how beautiful her heart is, and how much I love her little hands and feet.<br />
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Then I ran upstairs and grabbed our new game - "Hi Ho Cherry-O" and a little bowl of raisins and we played a couple rounds. She was so happy, it was great. My Little Love. <br />
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Such special, special times. We are together a lot, obviously, but it's the one on one special time with her that I've been carving out that really is extra wonderful.<br />
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What special things do you like to do with your kids ? How do you sneak this extra time into your day ?<br />
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<br />Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-58742200081532813732013-02-18T22:45:00.001-06:002013-02-18T22:45:14.209-06:00A Blessingway for a friend...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One of my dear friends is expecting a new baby girl any day now. A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of hosting a small Blessingway to honor her. We had a wonderful time!</div>
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I love birth and babies, and this is my new favorite way to love on expecting mothers.</div>
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Chai Tea Cupcakes - An idea from Pinterest. I just added chai spices to vanilla cake and used chai tea instead of water in the mix. I also added chai spices to the buttercream frosting. They were incredible! </div>
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I braided her hair and gave her a pedicure. We did sparkly pink polish to honor her baby girl.<br />
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We also each brought several beautiful beads and made her a Prayer Necklace. I'm bummed that we didn't get any photos of it being made, or the finished necklace. </div>
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My favorite part! Henna!! This was my first time using Henna, and I think it went pretty well! Next time I'll get something with a smaller applicator so it will dry faster and I can do more detailed designs.</div>
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The funniest part of the night was putting saran wrap around her belly because the henna wasn't dry yet and she had to get her older kiddo from the baby sitter by a certain time.</div>
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Have you ever been to a Blessingway ? Do you have any neat ideas for me to incorporate into the next one I host ? </h3>
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Jessica Y was the winner! She has been notified via email.</h3>
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About Busy Spinning Thread :<i> </i><br />
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<i> "I'm a wife and mom. I wear spit up, wipe tears, fix lunches, kiss him
good-bye and sing them to sleep. There are some days that I never get
out of my pajamas. I suppose in a lot of ways I'm just like you. I
encourage you to see beauty in the mundane. Your husband as a gift. Your
children as blessings. </i></div>
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<i>When thinking about my family and how to
get by in this economy, I was lead to Proverbs 31. A story of a woman
who works diligently for her family in every aspect of her life. She
also does a good bit of sewing. Her hands are "busy spinning thread." <br />I
reopened my shop in late October 2012. I absolutely love to
design-create-and make- and in a lot of ways it allows me to relate to
myself as an individual- it helps me feel like ME aside from the daily
calling of caring and serving my husband and children. My most favorite
time to create is at night when everyone is asleep. I put on my
favorite album and dance and sing and create away- I can guarantee you
your order was made with love and care :)<br />My husband and I are in
the process of saving money to buy land 100% down in hopes to build one
of my husband's shipping container home designs for quality living at a
cheaper cost. Busyspinningthread is my contribution to this dream while mothering two kiddos at home."</i></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Here are some things you will find in her shop : </span></h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/busyspinningthread?section_id=12836781">Classic Nursing Ponchos</a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/busyspinningthread?section_id=12771559">Nursing Necklaces</a> <br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/busyspinningthread?section_id=12836781">Modern Necklaces</a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/busyspinningthread?section_id=12902604">Chameleon Nursing Covers </a>- 2 covers in one <br />and MORE!</span></h3>
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LOVE these nursing necklaces!!</div>
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I don't usually cover when I nurse, but when <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/busyspinningthread?ref=top_trail">Busy Spinning Thread</a> contacted me about a review, I thought it would be nice to try one out. </div>
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<i>(borrowing her photo)</i></div>
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There have been several times in the past few months when I *wished* I had a nice cover. I was at a funeral a few months ago, and it would have been great to have a cover when I had to nurse in the middle of the service. I also think it's going to be great this summer when I'm wearing tank tops, dresses and my swimsuit and don't have my usual cami/tee shirt combo to nurse discreetly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFXgkRpPTwRC43fe_9tTR78Febhts0K7rv3XkLn8ZiCl9-kViA0I70MueBg_luQPsWTTywmvCPm-7Cfoz8DV2B5Iz6bPPj2VXi2sDwMN0i20NcwZTAgZmUQT0w-O-npeC_4Rl3B6QfE0Y/s1600/DSC_2992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFXgkRpPTwRC43fe_9tTR78Febhts0K7rv3XkLn8ZiCl9-kViA0I70MueBg_luQPsWTTywmvCPm-7Cfoz8DV2B5Iz6bPPj2VXi2sDwMN0i20NcwZTAgZmUQT0w-O-npeC_4Rl3B6QfE0Y/s200/DSC_2992.JPG" height="132" width="200" /></a></div>
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I chose the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/busyspinningthread?section_id=12839600">Modern Poncho</a> style in this fun <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/116420692/nursing-poncho-nursing-cover-modern?">flower print</a>. The fabric is soft and stretchy. Very snuggly. It comes in a matching pouch that it folds up into- it's really compact and easy to carry with you.</div>
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We played some peek-a-boo. She liked the little tent! She won't go for a blanket covering her up, but this cover was thin and soft enough for her. She liked seeing mama's face peeking in at her.</div>
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I like it pulled back like this so I can still have coverage and see her face while she nurses.</div>
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She pulled it over her own face, so adorable. I think she approves.</div>
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Happy Mama and Babe!! </div>
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Busy Spinning Thread wants to give one of YOU a nursing cover in your choice of color/print!</h2>
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Click "Read More" to enter! </div>
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<a name='more'></a><a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/9fdb2c49/" id="rc-9fdb2c49" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script><br />Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-33980745130960385472013-02-08T00:31:00.004-06:002013-02-08T23:23:14.829-06:00Our Valentine's Day Sensory Rice BinOur <a href="http://katydibs.blogspot.com/2013/02/my-baby-is-year-old-today-here-is-our.html">winter bin</a> was a huge hit, and I've been looking forward to making a Valentine's one, too. I'm also in the process of planning out future boxes, and I'm starting to watch for other fun, cheap items to stock up on.<br />
<br />
I finally got around to putting it together last night. I've been gathering items for it for a few weeks, we have just been SO BUSY. It was about midnight last night when I finally got a chance to pull the winter stuff out, and assemble the Valentine's goodies.<br />
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Most of the items were bought at the dollar store, or on sale at Hobby Lobby. Little heart boxes, necklaces, heart rings, heart shaped noise makers, cupcake erasers, felt hearts, cupcake buttons, heart cookie cutter set, heart buttons, and heart table scatter. I forgot to take a photo after I mixed it all together.<br />
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My girls haven't even gotten to play with it yet. Today was crazy here, plus my bigger girlie is a little under the weather, so she spent most of the day laying around. I'm excited to show them tomorrow! I do let my 12 month old play in it, she absolutely loves digging around in the rice, but I have to be RIGHT there, or the little bugger eats it. <br />
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Do you have any fun theme ideas for my future boxes ? <br />Let me know your ideas!</h2>
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Do you make sensory bins for your kiddos ? I'd love to see them.</h3>
Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-86492391236804776272013-02-06T00:12:00.002-06:002013-02-08T00:22:46.105-06:00My baby is a year old today! Here is our homebirth story...<h3 style="text-align: center;">
I thought it would be fun to share my birth story to celebrate <br />Hazel's first birthday! Enjoy! </h3>
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<br />
My sweet Hazel is a week old, so I thought now would be a good time to sit down and write out our story.<br />
<br />
I'd
been having mild contractions every now and then for a few weeks,
nothing that I was able to keep good track of, but enough to get me
excited. I had called my midwife twice in the past week, just to let her
know things were starting up, and to keep me in her thoughts. I had
some painful contractions at Target one night, and I had to get down and
squat in the candy aisle! <br />
<br />
During the last few months
of my pregnancy, I thought Hazel would be born on Tuesday, the 7th. I
never told anyone but my husband that I thought that, because I thought it
sounded crazy! Turns out I wasn't crazy, she was born on the 6th! I
knew she would be early, I knew she wouldn't make it to our "due date"
of February 17th. I should have trusted my intuition and taken time off
of work at the salon instead of booking people when I knew better!<br />
<br />
On
Sunday, February 5th I sat through church and had contractions every 5
minutes, on the dot. They didn't hurt yet, but they were definitely
there! I just closed my eyes during them, and tried to imagine how
close baby was to coming. I was so excited that I wanted to jump and
scream, but I didn't want to tell anyone, because I didn't want everyone
watching me and waiting for baby. The contractions were weak, so I
figured they were just because I worked the day before- I had no idea
that this was early labor! Olivia was induced, so I'd never experienced
natural labor. I talked to the guy who did the message on Sunday, and
told him "Sorry my eyes were closed during your message, I was in
labor!" He told me all that he noticed about me was how alert I was. I
thought that was funny, because I didn't feel very alert!<br />
<br />
After
church, my brother and sister in law treated us to breakfast, and then I
ran home and changed clothes for the baby shower! Yep, my baby shower
was the day before Hazel's birthday! The shower was so much fun, and we
got blessed with lots of sweet gifts. It was a last minute shower, I
hadn't even expected to have one. I didn't notice any contractions
during the shower, but I was pretty uncomfortable sitting there for 3
hours. My cousin drove 5 hours just to come to my shower, and she told
me that I should have the baby tonight so she can see her before she
leaves town. I said "I'll see what I can do" and hugged her goodbye,
not expecting to see her again for awhile! My husband had been teasing me
all weekend, saying he didn't want to go to work on Monday, and that I
should get to it! We had fun joking around about that - I seriously
didn't think it would happen!<br />
<br />
Liv and I came home from
the baby shower, and my husband helped me unload the gifts. I showed him
everything we got, and we started putting stuff away. I am SO glad that
I put stuff away right away! We'd been trying to keep the house really
tidy for the last few weeks. We cuddled Liv for awhile, then got her
down to bed. My husband and I headed down to rest on the couch for a bit
before we went to bed. I was feeling pretty uncomfortable, but was just
watching TV and doing stuff online. I couldn't sit on the couch
anymore, but I wasn't ready for bed, so I got on my knees, and propped
the laptop on the couch so I could rest my back. <br />
<br />
We
finally decided to go to bed around 12:15. I crawled into bed.
Contraction. Wait. Contraction. What ? Contraction. I was
thinking, there is NO way this is happening right now! Could it be ? I
started timing them. 2 minutes. Every time. I stayed there for about
30 minutes, timing the contractions. They were consistently 2 minutes
apart, so I got up to take a shower. I read that if you're in "real"
labor, a hot shower will not stop the contractions. I was in the shower
for about 20 minutes, and they kept coming 2 minutes apart. So I ran a
bath. I just couldn't believe it! I was in the bath for about 30
minutes. They were still 2 minutes apart! They weren't painful, but
they were there! I woke Bryan up and told him that I *think* this
might be it. I felt bad waking him up, because he was supposed to work
the next morning, and if this wasn't it, I was just taking sleep away
from him. I followed my body, and told him he better come help me time
these for a bit and see what happens.<br />
<br />
We went
downstairs and turned on Seinfeld. Trying to keep things as normal as
possible! I tried to distract myself by throwing our new baby things
from the baby shower into the washer, but it was hard when my
contractions were only 2 minutes apart. After awhile the contractions
were getting more intense, and I couldn't STAND George anymore! We
turned off Seinfeld and decided to call our midwife around 2 AM. I felt
SO bad for waking her up. Bryan assured me I wasn't the first laboring
woman to interrupt her sleep! I told her contractions were 2 minutes
apart, and that they had been for 2 hours. I told her I showered,
bathed, and nothing was stopping them. She told me to go rest on my
left side for awhile, and call her in 1/2 hour to an hour if they were
still coming. I laid down for awhile, and we called her again at 3AM
and told her they weren't letting up! We were giddy with excitement!
She is about 3.5 hours away from us, so I didn't want to waste any time.
She said she'd be on her way, and call us when she was close.<br />
<br />
Bryan
had been asking to fill the birth pool for a few hours, and I finally
gave him the go-ahead. This was really happening! The water felt SO
good. The next few hours got a little more intense. Contractions were
still at 2 minutes apart. I went from the pool, to the potty (my body
was clearing itself out), to the shower, to my bed, to the couch, then
back though over and over again. I would find a relaxing spot and be
comfortable for 20 minutes or so before I had to move. I had such a
wonderful time with my husband. We were laughing and talking between
contractions, and it was just so special and surreal to have this time
alone together in the middle of a winter night. During contractions, I
would just close my eyes, and try to let go of my whole body and let it
do it's thing. I kept thinking of a picture in my Bradley Method book
of the cervix opening way up and thinning out, like a turtleneck
sweater. Knowing what was going on in my body made the pain tolerable.
Bryan and I prayed that my contractions would let up a bit, because
every 2 minutes was getting to be a lot! I spent more time in the pool,
praying and thanking God for his design and for this baby.<br />
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<br />
Around
6AM, I was laying in bed shaking from adrenaline, and I felt like I was
going to throw up. I told Bryan something about feeling pushy, and in
my head I realized this was transition! At about 6:30AM our midwife got
here! I met her in the kitchen and Bryan told her I was saying pushy
things! I was still having the 2 minute contractions, and they were
getting pretty strong. She tied up her long, white hair and led me to
my bedroom to check me. I was at 8 centimeters! I COULD not believe I
was that far, but I should have known! She said my waters were
bulging, and we were close.<br />
<br />
We went out to the living
room and I got back in the pool. I really, really wanted a water birth.
We warmed up the water, I got naked, (did NOT see that one coming! I
swore up and down that I wouldn't be naked, but I just felt so free, and
didn't have a chance to think about finding the bra I had on earlier. I
remember saying something silly to my midwife, assuring myself that I
wasn't the first naked person she has seen) The pool felt amazing
again. This was it. The contractions slowed down, but got WAY more
intense. WAY, way more intense. I was able to get some good mental
rest between them for the first time that night. We weren't timing them
at this point, but they were longer than 2 minutes. During
contractions, I was making low noises to help myself breathe, and keep
my focus. My midwife kept saying "good girl" and telling me I was doing
a great job. When my legs would shake, she would gently grasp them to
help me relax them. Between contractions, she would just rest her chin
on the edge of the pool, and watch me. She came at THE perfect time.
Any earlier would have interrupted the sweet time I had with Bryan, and
any later would have started to get scary for me! We had a wonderful
time between contractions, talking and laughing. Our midwife is such a
gem. I am SO blessed to have her. Of all the midwives in the world,
SHE is the one that I have access to, and I am just so thankful for her.
I was in charge of this birth, my body did what it needed to, and she
was there for support, and to catch my baby.<br />
<br />
At this
point, my water was really bulging, and it eventually broke. It felt
like a big pop. My midwife had told me, "once your water breaks, this
baby is going to be right behind it!" I jokingly told her to go get a
fork! A few minutes later, my body started pushing. There was SO much
pressure, I felt like I was going to explode. I kept saying "I can't do
this!", then our midwife would tell me "Yes you can!" Then I would say
"I CAN do this!" This pushing stage seemed like it lasted for hours,
but Bryan said it was only about 10-15 minutes. I couldn't find
contractions to push with, because there was so much pressure, so I just
tried to let my body do it. I got her head out, then our midwife had
me try to stop for a second, because the cord was around Hazel's neck.
She got it off, then told me I could push again, so I did. I was
saying/screaming lots of hilarious things. We were laughing so hard.
The main thing I remember yelling is "I'M HAVING A BABY!!! IN MY LIVING
ROOM!!!" <br />
<br />
I was having trouble getting comfortable,
and staying still in the pool. I couldn't find a good place to put my
feet for leverage, and the handles in the pool were a little too far
away. The pool was an oval shape, and I was in it the long way. I was
getting really tired, and like I said, these few minutes seemed like
hours! Right at the end, Bryan grabbed me by the arms, and spun me in
the pool the short way, and I got so much strength off of him that I was
able to push Hazel the rest of the way out, in one big push. I will
never forget how firmly he grabbed me. He was right there at the
perfect moment to silently help me push out our baby.<br />
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<br />
<br />
At
8:14AM, Hazel Jubilee was born into the water. I reached down and
pulled her up and just kept saying "My baby, my baby, oh, my baby!" I
hugged her tight and couldn't stop kissing her! Our midwife had to give
her a few breaths to help get her going. I later learned this is common in water born babies, since the birth is so gentle. We just kept praying and telling
her to breathe, and she did! She was perfect! She felt tiny, so I was
shocked to find out she was 8 pounds, 7 ounces! She has lots of fuzzy
black hair, and the sweetest little face. She looks so much like Olivia
did when she was born. Bryan went and
got Olivia out of her bed. He told her that Hazel was here, and she
smiled in her sleep, then popped right out of bed! She loved her sister
right away. She was kissing her and saying "aww, my sister!"<br />
<br />
We
couldn't get Hazel to nurse right away, which is what I was expecting.
I had trouble breastfeeding Olivia too, but she eventually got the hang
of it. I am still working with Hazel to get her to latch well. My
babies have tiny little mouths. We left the cord alone until it stopped
pulsing, then Bryan cut it, and our midwife handed him the baby for a
few minutes and she took me to the bathroom to deliver the placenta and
take a quick shower.<br />
<br />
What a surprise to call our
families with a baby crying in the background! They had just been with
me hours before at the shower, and they suspected nothing!<br />
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<br />
This
whole birth experience was invigorating and empowering. Our bodies
were truly made to this! I feel great physically and emotionally. I
feel like a rockstar. My cousin ended up getting to see the new baby
before she left town. Bryan also got out of work on Monday! A few
hours after the birth, I was just sitting on the couch, eating a
sandwich, talking to my family. It was so wonderful to be home, in my
own clothes, in my own space.<br />
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And now, a year later, breastfeeding is going great. We got the hang of it about 2 weeks after she was born and are still going strong. I think of my birth often and how amazing it was. I'm looking forward to the next one, whenever that ends up being. My Hazie is such a sweet, funny little girl. We are having a wonderful time with her. </div>
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Baby's First Cupcake <3><!--3--></3></div>
Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-64299138540758700662013-02-04T01:38:00.000-06:002013-02-04T01:48:45.169-06:00Choosing JoyI'm tired. She's tired. We are both frustrated. We were up a lot last night. She's either cutting another tooth or she's coming down with a cold. The weekend has been long and hard. I just want to go to bed and wake up refreshed, I'm ready to start a new week. She's not having it tonight. I've been trying to calm her down and get her to sleep since 9 It's now 1:30. We've tried homeopathic teething stuff, over the counter medicine, three diaper changes, a massage, a warm bath, offered lots of nursie, offered snuggles from mama and daddy, lotion on her feet, changed pajamas... We've tried everything to comfort her, She's still crying.<br />
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I don't really know what else to try. I throw back the covers and hop out of bed. I can either lay there and hope she stops crying, or get up and try one last thing. I decide to grab one of our favorite wraps and I toss her over my shoulder. Her happy place. She instantly calms down, snuggles her face into my back and giggles a little. <i>Oh, my sweet love. How can I even be impatient with you ?</i><br />
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I sneak out to the kitchen, preheat the oven, and turn on some quiet lullabies. Gently swaying my hips back and forth with the music. It reminds me of the cold February night almost a year ago when I labored all night, preparing for an early morning delivery. Tonight, we are getting an early start on tomorrow's to-do list. Cupcakes for a friend's blessingway. At about this same time last year, it was my blessingway, preparing to welcome this little lady into the world. <i>Time has gone so fast.</i><br />
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I'm choosing joy tonight. I'd rather be sleeping, preparing for another day of mothering these tiny girls...but instead I get to make a memory. Someday, I'll giggle with her and tell her about the time when she wouldn't go to sleep for hours and hours, and I finally tossed her on my back and we made cupcakes together. The silliest part will be how she finally fell asleep, about 10 minutes into the cupcake making and snored her way through the rest of "our" baking project...<br />
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Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-84228299215868950992013-01-31T00:18:00.003-06:002013-01-31T00:32:14.649-06:00My house keeping schedule<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v131/bellefille/Photo1478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v131/bellefille/Photo1478.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>My laundry room doesn't look like THIS anymore!</i></div>
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As a busy, part time working, homeschooling, whole food eating, cloth diapering, more-baby-wanting mama of 2 littles I kept finding myself completely overwhelmed with keeping my house tidy on top of all the other things I'm juggling. I'm a bit of a neat freak and I have trouble focusing on anything when my space isn't clean. A few months ago I HAD to make a plan to keep me from going crazy! I'm also working really hard to form good housekeeping habits, hoping that as we have more children we will have a good system in place.<br />
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<a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v131/bellefille/Resize_0123131907-00_01_zpsf3511af8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v131/bellefille/Resize_0123131907-00_01_zpsf3511af8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here's what I've come up with and it has CHANGED my life!! We've been
doing it for several months, and I'm not as crazy as I used to be because I
have a routine. Yay! I'm about half-way through a whole house
organizing/decluttering spree and that has helped a ton- to have a
specific place for everything to go. I'm planning on writing up a simple organizing schedule that takes me through 1 or 2 areas a week to maintain the closets, cabinets, drawers, toys, etc.<br />
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I am constantly simplifying our belongings. I keep a kitchen trash bag hanging in the laundry room to gather donations and when it's full, out it goes.<br />
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<a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v131/bellefille/149895_466601783408_510258408_5635934_2682394_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v131/bellefille/149895_466601783408_510258408_5635934_2682394_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I broke it down into just a few things a day and it's sooo nice. Like one day, I was running low on time and started to deep clean the kitchen out of habit,
and I actually pulled myself away, knowing it will get done later that week. It lifted the stress and time crunch I was feeling and I was able
to spend time with my kids instead.<br />
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<a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v131/bellefille/74400_466603848408_510258408_5635974_271635_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v131/bellefille/74400_466603848408_510258408_5635974_271635_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I underlined what's on my list- just a few words to make it easy for me, but explained a little in case it could help anyone. <br />
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Every night before we go to bed :<br />
<u>1. All toys cleaned up<br />
2. Sink clear or almost clear<br />
3. Kitchen table clear</u><br />
These are fairly flexible- like if we are out late or have company, but that's only happened a few times.<br />
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As needed - usually every other day:<br />
<u>Sweep main floor<br />
Vacuum kitchen rug/shake rugs<br />
Wash cloth diapers<br />
Extra tidying</u><br />
<u>Extra laundry</u><br />
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M-<u> laundry/change sheets</u>- I take ALL the laundry downstairs and
sort it. I wash/fold/put away as much as I possibly can. I usually get
almost all of it done and if I don't, I still have all week to work at it. I used to try to do
one load a day and it was too crazy for me. Changing sheets this same day
guarantees that clean ones get back on my bed, and the spare set gets
put back in the closet. I also have <u>cleaning our room</u> on Mondays- picking up my clothes, putting away necklaces that I pile up during the week, etc. <br />
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Tu- <u>girl's rooms</u> - . I
just check their rooms for any extra messes that need to be cleaned up.
Or I organize their drawers, clean up random stuff that may have
fallen to the closet floors, change their sheets, get the changing table organized, etc My husband's Tuesday job is to <u>clean the basement</u> - I usually have it almost done, but sometimes ask him to vacuum, or pick up toys I missed.<br />
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W- <u>Dust</u>. My house is small, and my decor is simple and pretty practical. It doesn't take me long to wipe down the kitchen and living room. I dust bedrooms and the bathrooms on their cleaning days. <u>Organize</u> a closet or drawer. <u>Tidy main floor.</u> <u>Wipe the hallway mirror down.</u><br />
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Th- <u>Deep clean kitchen</u> - I wipe everything down, organize a cabinet or drawer, clean up the fridge, microwave, etc. I also deep clean the <u>bathrooms</u> on Thursdays, so they are fresh for the weekend in case we end up with company. My husband's job is to finish the bathrooms and do <u>trash</u>
on this night. <br />
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F- Free day/Catch up day. I usually take the girls out to do something on Fridays. Shopping, playdates, etc. My main thing on Fridays is to plan next week's <u>homeschool </u>stuff. (more homeschool posts coming soon!)<br />
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Sa- I work on Saturdays, so I don't have chores this day, but DH sweeps and spot cleans the upstairs <u>floors </u><!--3-->(we have hardwood that he refinished, so he likes to check it out every week and watch how it wears and any of <u>his laundry</u> that I may have missed/didn't have time for.<br />
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Su- We rest!<br />
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What do you do to keep your house in order ? </h2>
Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2010992713155342406.post-42239083369221909702013-01-04T00:30:00.000-06:002013-01-25T23:00:35.755-06:00*CLOSED*Moraki Review and Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Marya is the winner! She has been notified via email.</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGsUDWQE48WzyzPEqkNzrimEtL-hZYinIHVRzGAt4KHC_sgvwzb1B2X_q5BA8hX9Xe2D0Nn7NlbQXEElYfVV88X8h82fo4ybQrvXibVKeSZmLIuAR5fRLTwebbg3uK5qgp9gklLDyGCmU/s1600/web_logo_226x80.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGsUDWQE48WzyzPEqkNzrimEtL-hZYinIHVRzGAt4KHC_sgvwzb1B2X_q5BA8hX9Xe2D0Nn7NlbQXEElYfVV88X8h82fo4ybQrvXibVKeSZmLIuAR5fRLTwebbg3uK5qgp9gklLDyGCmU/s1600/web_logo_226x80.png" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: small;">Moraki, Inc. is a mama owned,
conscientious manufacturer aimed at creating high quality, innovative,
and stylish reusable cloth diapers and other family products while
stirring awareness in sustainable living and waste reduction. Our focus
will remain on supporting local communities and individuals as we
grow. The goal of Moraki, Inc. is to offer products that eliminate
waste, backed by outstanding customer service.</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtap0sOZaRehChyg9owvKKWjUrk9V3wKR0GTiJ8M337VAz1tAlbxcd0gEZEDvLNfX3y8pCoaYhfr3u5N52vlpV8GAsNFf2XkG9l2MF-8iiZSpx5fNfG3-IOj4_PYV49y8MtMhiDPaj22o/s1600/tiedye_red1__22427.1355698638.190.190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtap0sOZaRehChyg9owvKKWjUrk9V3wKR0GTiJ8M337VAz1tAlbxcd0gEZEDvLNfX3y8pCoaYhfr3u5N52vlpV8GAsNFf2XkG9l2MF-8iiZSpx5fNfG3-IOj4_PYV49y8MtMhiDPaj22o/s1600/tiedye_red1__22427.1355698638.190.190.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbOhb4sxfyH3qA7OZWjPmUa0miFp9Nt3vcWO_DC9wYOQONvPzkc2B7zWY87KrzNqbCxAzDQ-wUX1_AWAgluYjDm6mP_ijXD0pYc9e6M7zvi0ScPh4Br3fX-347LwfiV15KA1gVqNKTh-o/s1600/lavendar__83601.1354901586.190.190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbOhb4sxfyH3qA7OZWjPmUa0miFp9Nt3vcWO_DC9wYOQONvPzkc2B7zWY87KrzNqbCxAzDQ-wUX1_AWAgluYjDm6mP_ijXD0pYc9e6M7zvi0ScPh4Br3fX-347LwfiV15KA1gVqNKTh-o/s1600/lavendar__83601.1354901586.190.190.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></i><span style="font-size: small;">I love this tie dye print! </span><br />
<span class="userContent"> Use coupon code NEWYEAR30 to save 30% off all orders over $20 through January 23 </span></div>
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I'm so excited to be sharing my <a href="http://www.morakicloth.com/shop-online/">Moraki </a>review! I've had this one in the works for awhile, but the Holidays and busy days with my kiddos slowed me down. This diaper arrived at our house weeks ago and it has been one of my favorite diapers in our rotation ever since! It's rare for me to find a diaper that works well for both of my girls, so I'm really happy. I especially loved it on my 3.5 year old for night time, so that tells you something about how great it is!</div>
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They sent me an adorable Christmas print!</div>
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<img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioa933rWuRWEQOaZu97vXU3Z7vC96NRGw5837ue_Eank5ly2LIjuv_NVg5VIvenvMSPhjeB073SAoAIAW8685JTM5edSUaR3k1Sg41-CGLj6SvYHAgpmfmXb7nhqxQv6_d-JKpvnCmJxQ/s1600/DSC_2279.JPG" width="320" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.morakicloth.com/">Moraki diapers</a> are for babies/toddlers 7-40 pounds. They have 4 rise snap settings, so you can get the perfect fit for your little one. They also have a wing droop snap which is great for my crazy little crawler right now!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNU3lhkdDXnOD6A0kpI34Mt0L77HhRLys9tRyy-UMpmtxgLWvg5FFv_K84psjoJhIuST0XlHSlrYg8wMII4lqvOfIuRtb0WNCjMxGeRaihmljv14j6uavQOyd4fu-402RfAwqu7UQg1GA/s1600/DSC_2281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNU3lhkdDXnOD6A0kpI34Mt0L77HhRLys9tRyy-UMpmtxgLWvg5FFv_K84psjoJhIuST0XlHSlrYg8wMII4lqvOfIuRtb0WNCjMxGeRaihmljv14j6uavQOyd4fu-402RfAwqu7UQg1GA/s1600/DSC_2281.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This <a href="http://www.morakicloth.com/cloth-diapers/">diaper</a> is an <a href="http://www.morakicloth.com/features/">All-In-Two (AI2) AND a Pocket Diaper</a>. You can just lay the insert inside of it, or put the insert inside of the pockets. The advantage of the all-in-two is that you can switch out a new insert, and keep the same cover through multiple changes. I used it both ways, and at night I do both at the same time - Putting 2 of my<a href="http://www.morakicloth.com/inserts/"> inserts</a> in the pocket, and laying the third in.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFm96rs0YY2UL4jRdLDxmDcvAkKBPZ0XqIU4Yusv60cLnAsa8HJFyfWxTiFsEFv3eshCxfP5gkKR7M-oucuKhGKtJLdATgKWO-vynoVSKRyl-7attNOm3pRYLlBiqUADSgRoQCrohe8g/s1600/DSC_2282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFm96rs0YY2UL4jRdLDxmDcvAkKBPZ0XqIU4Yusv60cLnAsa8HJFyfWxTiFsEFv3eshCxfP5gkKR7M-oucuKhGKtJLdATgKWO-vynoVSKRyl-7attNOm3pRYLlBiqUADSgRoQCrohe8g/s1600/DSC_2282.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The diaper's inner is polyester. The inserts are 55% Hemp and 45% Organic Cotton (and they are so soft!) The inserts come in 3 sizes- <span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Small: 4 layers (approx. 10 3/4" long before folding or washing) </span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Medium: 4 layers (approx. 12 1/2" long before folding or washing) </span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Onesize/Overnight: 4 layers (approx. 14 1/5" long before folding or washing)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYSIeX3CGqcpMWbO2_bltVE-xwsTXCotuNHMfnp8jOHlrfYItfhVv-b0lBwQCMh_v0pg2cA_67XqKJpoZhW8O5GAdaB0Gt0xr-1B0QQ0ikk8KFzQVWix_Vipt4sLjC4QejjKNoR9_E1ZY/s1600/DSC_2283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYSIeX3CGqcpMWbO2_bltVE-xwsTXCotuNHMfnp8jOHlrfYItfhVv-b0lBwQCMh_v0pg2cA_67XqKJpoZhW8O5GAdaB0Gt0xr-1B0QQ0ikk8KFzQVWix_Vipt4sLjC4QejjKNoR9_E1ZY/s1600/DSC_2283.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The pocket on these is in the center, which I LOVE because you don't have to pull them out- they agitate right out in the wash. Save me from having to pull out a yucky insert when I'm in a hurry.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbjAg0BOt7-IW_ABG_ORs7Xm8Q1EUAbdzxB1NHjn86P8dCPKdOlplQM2O9UchldWvIZ60tzroeHmrovJKJW-puEfNvNQ6KK2QwkPKtVqpKscuTR_CpJ4q83Z9-Msqch8hBx3VRUwy7HLI/s1600/DSC_2284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbjAg0BOt7-IW_ABG_ORs7Xm8Q1EUAbdzxB1NHjn86P8dCPKdOlplQM2O9UchldWvIZ60tzroeHmrovJKJW-puEfNvNQ6KK2QwkPKtVqpKscuTR_CpJ4q83Z9-Msqch8hBx3VRUwy7HLI/s1600/DSC_2284.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another thing I really love about this diaper is the flap in the front. I tuck the insert underneath it so moisture can't wick out.</div>
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Action shots!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI6fiAgB5K2zYfrhd_KXTe4QE2yMhx3GravIQoqKhIAzBxxnfXpaGz_N5v4HWKZKuOUkOoYpev1rZ6qcJs1ZKiMb5_p__TdQetIcVbrAORhud59s3nAjCatiwa8uP9GAvgXiV2ZppvvZE/s1600/DSC_2625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI6fiAgB5K2zYfrhd_KXTe4QE2yMhx3GravIQoqKhIAzBxxnfXpaGz_N5v4HWKZKuOUkOoYpev1rZ6qcJs1ZKiMb5_p__TdQetIcVbrAORhud59s3nAjCatiwa8uP9GAvgXiV2ZppvvZE/s320/DSC_2625.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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One my little kiddo- 11 months(CRY!)/about 20 pounds with the 2 smaller inserts. I snapped it to the middle snap setting.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwjCxy6wkZgN_MMhXvWI7RT1Vy7_usUlhBlBzzrkPB5ZcwEc4f4IR-sBgey9J57t5eB2igF-3r3l3g6TpDWrswNPFHhUZP_fbD6ODQ8UuXXnhCaaf7Bme3I13rkIGLFUskOZnu8gjwLxo/s1600/DSC_2626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwjCxy6wkZgN_MMhXvWI7RT1Vy7_usUlhBlBzzrkPB5ZcwEc4f4IR-sBgey9J57t5eB2igF-3r3l3g6TpDWrswNPFHhUZP_fbD6ODQ8UuXXnhCaaf7Bme3I13rkIGLFUskOZnu8gjwLxo/s320/DSC_2626.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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This was with all three inserts - the two smaller stuffed in the pocket, with the third one just laid in. Still very trim fitting!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw0P8LXiU-hqcqzAVwEotn1eNmI9vl8MqifMKA8V5xvzcbQ813mWkujKdC424YEaJ86QmJfiZMzmlcGJixuVBxdFDyoExPmKzroC1I4FHQ_DoEXgiwEemALjo19-YWxpOf_FU6L5A4qEU/s1600/DSC_2628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw0P8LXiU-hqcqzAVwEotn1eNmI9vl8MqifMKA8V5xvzcbQ813mWkujKdC424YEaJ86QmJfiZMzmlcGJixuVBxdFDyoExPmKzroC1I4FHQ_DoEXgiwEemALjo19-YWxpOf_FU6L5A4qEU/s320/DSC_2628.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbSQA768FV1tB4drBeLCVRf__VvNoGfLFj9YaSeoctRqZ-lmHvVu9QSohaM6UMnpr_Fbh9RyAvcnnl3JT7jLrh0bm5VDdopLxQMauShWZMtBvlM35GCwHPK92Ys8mKwryjqvZWjd2QElw/s1600/DSC_2629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbSQA768FV1tB4drBeLCVRf__VvNoGfLFj9YaSeoctRqZ-lmHvVu9QSohaM6UMnpr_Fbh9RyAvcnnl3JT7jLrh0bm5VDdopLxQMauShWZMtBvlM35GCwHPK92Ys8mKwryjqvZWjd2QElw/s320/DSC_2629.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
And on my bigger kiddo 3.5 years old/about 35 pounds. I unsnapped the rise completely.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYxiwY6r38cMFo9AmlVusta1oHX4Hq3M1_Zu2VRdNZjjGMo8_gKF-nZm7O8hqLGzNTDUk1fozciSfJXysUF9P0x1FFnEsKkXGh9p-b2eRIMeMHGZYmpuYc5Ov-JSWQmcgX4iCzatOVzI/s1600/DSC_2636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYxiwY6r38cMFo9AmlVusta1oHX4Hq3M1_Zu2VRdNZjjGMo8_gKF-nZm7O8hqLGzNTDUk1fozciSfJXysUF9P0x1FFnEsKkXGh9p-b2eRIMeMHGZYmpuYc5Ov-JSWQmcgX4iCzatOVzI/s320/DSC_2636.JPG" width="320" /> </a> </div>
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All 3 inserts. A snug comfy fit for overnights.<span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"> She loves the little elephants. :)</span></span></span></div>
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<b>One of my favorite things about Moraki diapers is that they are <a href="http://www.morakicloth.com/moraki-mou/">made in the US by moms</a>!</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent"> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Try one out for yourself! Use coupon code NEWYEAR30 to save 30% off all orders over $20 through January 2<span style="font-size: large;">3. </span></b></span></span> </div>
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(That means a bundle (cover and insert), normally $31, is now $21.70! Free shipping on Domestic orders over $50, and $3 shipping on all other US orders.)</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b> </b>Click "Read More" to enter the giveaway to win a Moraki diaper in your choice of color or print + an insert in your choice of size!</span></div>
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<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Katiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08535052088617584748noreply@blogger.com141