tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1989112623607520042024-03-13T15:06:42.323-04:00All Four LoveMommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.comBlogger630125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-63309112664998330902015-11-06T20:35:00.001-05:002015-11-06T20:35:41.517-05:00VTech Baby Amaze Learn to Talk & Read Baby Doll Review<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmWu24OhuGTNIEKT8hXT2aRBBzdSGZXAMVxcJoIvsmzzTZvfa5wIYvP2hqb9lxt1sJJZTQY0Pvan4oEdNppWZtN51v1JGoAvBcahR6Q79_ibD5lNfXw1vv4AJmLsDtOV6KsPO5xjmTNbIo/s1600/_MG_4006+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmWu24OhuGTNIEKT8hXT2aRBBzdSGZXAMVxcJoIvsmzzTZvfa5wIYvP2hqb9lxt1sJJZTQY0Pvan4oEdNppWZtN51v1JGoAvBcahR6Q79_ibD5lNfXw1vv4AJmLsDtOV6KsPO5xjmTNbIo/s400/_MG_4006+copy.jpg" width="266" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "copse"; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">**This post is sponsored by VTech. We received this fun toy to play with and try out at no cost to us. Even though the toy were free, all opinions are my own and I don't write about products that we don't love and wouldn't use ourself. Enjoy!**</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "copse"; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">At 2 1/2 years old, Ginny has definitely entered the baby doll phase. She absolutely loves anything and everything baby doll, so when VTech asked if we'd be interested in reviewing the Baby Amaze doll, I jumped all over it. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "copse"; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">Since bringing home the box a few weeks ago, this baby doll has become Ginny's favorite. Anytime she's home (toys don't go in the car or to daycare with them), Ginny's Baby Amaze has been at her side - strolling around the house, playing games, going to bed with her, etc. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "copse";"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Baby Amaze is an interactive talking baby doll that actually plays and "grows" with your child. Crazy, right? It really does! When you begin playing with Baby Amaze, she says fewer, simpler words and requests. As your child interacts and talks to Baby Amaze, she learns more words and her language goes from "milk" to "milk please Mommy!" For instance, if Baby Amaze asks for milk and you give her a bottle, she makes sucking noises until she's done, then a little burp noise. It's quite adorable to watch Ginny interact with her so lovingly. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "copse"; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">There are four modes of play that can be activated by easy buttons on her outfit: </span></div>
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<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "copse"; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">Caring - where baby asks for milk, her pacifier, to go to sleep, etc.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "copse"; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">Talk with Me - where you can play games and teach baby words, which she repeats to back. </span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "copse";"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">Reading - baby can read to you or you can read to baby from one of three included books.</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "copse";"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">Music Time - baby coos and plays 4 sing along songs and 8 melodies</span></span></li>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "copse"; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">A button on the back (inside the battery compartment) allows you to reset Baby Amaze back to "newborn" mode and play all over again. I'm not sure how long it takes to get Baby Amaze to it's full potential vocabulary wise - it's kind of fluid and just happens over time.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "copse"; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">My favorite part of this doll is how interactive she is. In just a few short weeks, Ginny's interest in role playing and imaginative play has skyrocketed and I truly believe Baby Amaze is partly to thank. The baby care mode, especially, sets the stage for Ginny to care for baby, even running to the play kitchen to "refill her bottle" when it's empty or rocking her to sleep when baby says she is tired. Ginny has transferred these interactions to non-speaking baby dolls, expanding her pretend play. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "copse"; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">The other unique thing that we really enjoy is the vocabulary building and games. The pink button on baby's bib makes her ask questions like, "what color is your shirt?" "what does a dog say?" Answering "w" questions helps to build vocabulary and other language skills. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "copse"; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">Truthfully, the only thing I'd change would be to add an "off" button. Baby will talk until the automatic shut off kicks in (after a few minutes of no play), but there are times, like bedtime, where I wish I could shut her off on command. Otherwise, this is a solid, enjoyable toy!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "copse"; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;"><b>The Verdict</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "copse";"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Overall, we really love this toy. I was a little leery at first because of the stereotypical creepy baby doll voice, but seeing Ginny's absolute love for her cuddly, pink, chatty dolly self melts my heart. I'm so glad we were able to experience Baby Amaze Learn to Talk and Read Baby Doll. She retails for only $29.99, which is a pleasant surprise considering how highly interactive it is. I have a feeling this, along with the other Baby Amaze toys, is going to be one of those big toys this year, so don't be surprised if your kids know about it before you did! </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "copse";"><span style="font-size: 15px;">The Baby Amaze line of products is available at Toy R Us stores nationwide and at <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/buy/interactive-dolls/vtech-baby-amaze-little-love-learn-to-talk-read-doll-80-153900-58235656" rel="nofollow">ToysRUs.com</a>. </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: copse; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;">VTech has been generous enough, however, to provide one of my lucky readers with a Baby Amaze doll of their own! Check out the Rafflecopter below for a chance to win! Thank you, VTech!</span></div>
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MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-14494901304878348132015-06-16T21:43:00.002-04:002015-06-16T21:53:12.634-04:00Skill Building with Family Chores This post is also featured on Libman's new site, <a href="http://www.cleaningasafamily.com/" rel="nofollow">Cleaning as a Family</a>. Check out their Cleaning as a Family forum and blog for information, cleaning solutions, and ideas on how to get your kids in on the housekeeping action!<br />
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The truth of the matter is, Jeff and I both work full time (and then some!) so we need to use our evening and weekend time wisely. We realized that there were a lot of things that needed to be done around the house that could benefit Charlie and not just in a life skills way. We got creative and began to integrate him into our family cleaning routine, partly to establish a role for him in keeping up with the house, but to also let him practice and build skills that he is working on in speech and occupational therapy.<br />
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Here are some examples of jobs (we call chores "jobs") that Charlie does around the house and how they contribute to his growth and development.<br />
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<b>First, Then</b><br />
Something that Charlie struggles with, and all young children need to learn, is how to follow two step directions. This has to do with his delay in processing language. He needs all the practice he can get in following both two step related (first put on pajamas and then put your clothes in the hamper) and two step unrelated (first brush your teeth and then feed the dog) directions. We use a combination of visual cues (picture cards) and auditory reminders to let him practice and build this skill. Instructions like "first put your dishes in the sink and then wipe off the table" or "first pick up the train tracks and then put your shoes away" meet goals of tidying up, but also give him that practice.<br />
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<b>Matching and Sorting</b><br />
Understanding the concept of bigger/smaller and same/different is another important skill that all kids learn at different times and one that Charlie is still working on. Chances to match and sort by size, shape, color, etc. let kids practice and develop this important skill. Charlie helps put away toys in their bins, match socks when we fold laundry, put away silverware, etc. These are some of his favorite jobs! Organizing things into groups is calming to him.<br />
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<b>Imaginative Play</b><br />
The ability to imagine and play pretend doesn't come easy for Charlie and impacts his ability to interact and play with his peers. When we clean, it's a great opportunity to put on some music and play! Is this a broom or a dance partner? How about a race to clean up the living room toys before the floor becomes lava?! Not only does it make the time go by faster, but it encourages creativity and pretend.<br />
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<b>Staying Engaged</b><br />
If it were up to Charlie, he would spend the time from when we got home until bedtime playing quietly, using the iPad, watching TV, etc. Though we also tend to his introverted nature, we want to challenge him and keep him engaged, practicing important social skills such as eye contact, the concept of personal space, and conversation. When he helps make dinner, run errands, or do chores such as dusting or sweeping, he's up and interacting with us. Even though he can't exactly mop, he can help point out the spots to get next or some other super important helper job!<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As Charlie gets older, I'm sure his jobs will change, but I hope to always link them back to a skill he is working on obtaining. Don't get me wrong, we play and read and </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">craft - A LOT, but at the end of the day, the cleaning needs to get done - might as well make it a fun learning opportunity!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you to Libman for inviting us to be part of their new Cleaning as a Family campaign. We've learned so much about how to make cleaning fun! </span><br />
<br />MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-15328984047845298762015-06-16T07:04:00.000-04:002015-06-16T08:18:01.418-04:00New Goal: 12 in 12One of my goals for the past year was the run a 5K, 10K, and half marathon. I've definitely accomplished that and even made my way into Half Fanatics with my record of 2 half marathons in 2 weeks! So, what's next?<br />
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Twelve half marathons in twelve months - how does that sound?<br />
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Well first off, it sounds expensive, but besides that it sounds amazingly fun!! What races could I find to fill in the gaps? Something I realized as I started planning was that there are some months that are just not big on races, period. Like July and August - I get it, who in their right mind wants to run 13.1 miles in sweltering heat? Not me, but it has to be done!<br />
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Since it's already the middle of June, I think I'm going to forgo finding races this summer and work on conditioning instead, hopping back into the circuit in September. Hopefully, I'll be able to find something next summer to complete the loop! Here's what I have on my wish list so far...<br />
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<b>September: Hokie Half (Blacksburg, VA)</b><br />
You get to run through the beautiful country side and get a Hokie Bird medal at the end. Enough said!<br />
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<b>October (1): Crawlin' Crab Half Marathon (Virginia Beach, VA) </b><br />
This one will be back to back with Hokie, but that just means I'm already trained up, right? After running my first J&A race last March, I fell in love with the whole racing scene in Virginia Beach. With an option to run the "Shell Yeah" 5K + Half challenge, they sure know how to woo me with pretty medals. <br />
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<b>October (2): Baltimore Half Marathon (Baltimore, MD)</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBH3xTKyVdmqXRQTGZTDrVms4MfTYXieGLxU47N0ppcizPvVpUmaS9H5wVvKhL_PCv0g_2QbaYgpV7z_ZjmXSlZ0E9vEfuzLkGt9vJ3IdDsSa4xRhQkcAfAMdDTY89W6PnV7vpRRIoOvX5/s1600/11200592_10100384915498558_6838728206368383679_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBH3xTKyVdmqXRQTGZTDrVms4MfTYXieGLxU47N0ppcizPvVpUmaS9H5wVvKhL_PCv0g_2QbaYgpV7z_ZjmXSlZ0E9vEfuzLkGt9vJ3IdDsSa4xRhQkcAfAMdDTY89W6PnV7vpRRIoOvX5/s400/11200592_10100384915498558_6838728206368383679_n.jpg" width="257" /></a>The final leg of the King Crab Challenge, I'm super excited for all the scenery, crowds, and swag from this race. I have several friends coming from across the country to run it as well (for many, their first!!) so it's going to be extra exciting. <br />
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<b>November: Harbor Lights Half Marathon (Virginia Beach, VA)</b><br />
Another beautiful racing weekend in Virginia Beach. I'm not sure if I'll run the 5K + Half "Get Lit" Challenge, but see the above comment about being a medal hoarder. <br />
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<b>December, </b><b>January: </b><br />
Still looking. These are the months I'd LOVE to run since they're so cold, but alas, not popular distance running months. Maybe I can find a holiday themed something or other...<br />
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<b>February: Disney's Princess Half Marathon </b><br />
Sarah and I are ready and waiting for the registration for the Princess Half Marathon to open up next month! We're hoping to sign up for the Glass Slipper Challenge (10K + Half) and are already planning costumes (of course). <br />
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<b>March: Shamrock Half Marathon (Virginia Beach, VA)</b><br />
Are you sensing a theme yet? This is my current PR and I'm looking to crush it. <br />
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<b>April: </b><br />
After two big back to back traveling races (Princess and Shamrock) I'm going to try my best to keep this one local. I don't have one picked out just yet, but there seem to be several in the area that can check off the month without breaking the bank. <br />
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<b>May: Frederick Half Marathon OR Pittsburgh Half Marathon</b><br />
I ran Frederick this past year and had a wonderful time, but have also heard great things about Pittsburgh - a city that I absolutely love. They're back to back weekends during a busy time at work, so it'll come down to one tough choice!<br />
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<b>June, July, August: </b><br />
Which brings us back to the main point of this post. There are a few half marathons in June that I've stumbled upon, but July and August seem pretty bare. It may take some creativity or traveling to get it worked out, but I'm open to suggestions!<br />
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If you have any suggestions for great races in the PA, MD, WV, VA area, hit me up!<br />
<br />MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-54077652192154525062015-06-15T08:45:00.000-04:002015-06-15T08:45:19.759-04:00Create & Celebrate Art Party!This is at least 7 months late at this point, but I'm so proud of how Charlie's 4th birthday party turned out, I have to share! Let's pretend I've just been ruminating on the perfect way to present it...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZtDkyfqc4ABx2baewffpSViezHxnb6oRhE8bl0Y-VWtEj3iMgyCbMY45nWNHBDZHxePMEOiCbJjqBWjPFnM_DAGyQ-c-P5jisaAICjGtsh9ZSe20PDYNt2-BGvl0nln6kopxboGwBU1po/s1600/IMG_1163+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZtDkyfqc4ABx2baewffpSViezHxnb6oRhE8bl0Y-VWtEj3iMgyCbMY45nWNHBDZHxePMEOiCbJjqBWjPFnM_DAGyQ-c-P5jisaAICjGtsh9ZSe20PDYNt2-BGvl0nln6kopxboGwBU1po/s640/IMG_1163+copy.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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When I asked Charlie what he wanted to do for his birthday, he quickly told us he wanted to, "paint with [his] friends." Done, buddy. After a few trips to Hobby Lobby, Amazon, and Target, Charlie's art party came together relatively easily.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBnW9xwklf8MOuyXgO7Pvo99S9bJnUkB95cqVfhGTqfE4ybk7T75PdOv8WkptactjBpjczdn9qn_lDJ43s9fX9NitzIrgF4gUvY1wznb4PZRR4-TFfKVma2jY4vSz4KYP0ODd3_1GoJung/s1600/IMG_1517c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBnW9xwklf8MOuyXgO7Pvo99S9bJnUkB95cqVfhGTqfE4ybk7T75PdOv8WkptactjBpjczdn9qn_lDJ43s9fX9NitzIrgF4gUvY1wznb4PZRR4-TFfKVma2jY4vSz4KYP0ODd3_1GoJung/s400/IMG_1517c.jpg" width="400" /></a>Hobby Lobby had...<br />
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<ul>
<li>Tiny easels (4 for $5)</li>
<li>Washable paint ($1.50 bottle)</li>
<li>Paint pallets (8 for $5)</li>
<li>Chip board letters ($1 each)</li>
<li>Paint theme cupcake liners ($2)</li>
<li>Paint splotch wall decorations ($3)</li>
<li>Black butcher block paper ($6 roll)</li>
<li>144 paint brushes ($5)</li>
<li>Brown paper goodie bags (5 for $2)</li>
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Target had...</div>
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<li>Back to School sale markers, crayons, chalk, and paint brushes (various prices, all under a dollar)</li>
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Amazon had...</div>
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<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CJGM1E/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001CJGM1E&linkCode=as2&tag=homforthr-20&linkId=UNTCIKYFGDWT2W26">ABC silicone molds for favors ($12)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0035V1JUQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0035V1JUQ&linkCode=as2&tag=homforthr-20&linkId=FTX5B5THGCRV56MV">Smocks ($7.50 dozen)</a></li>
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All in all, I was able to purchase the snacks, supplies, favors, etc. for under $75. The back to school sales going on the months leading up to the party really helped out with the various art supplies used for favors and decorations. Crayons were a quarter a box, which I'm thankful for as we went through tons of them!</div>
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My favorite decoration for the party was the "cake." Since we planned to decorate cupcakes, there was no centerpiece to the food table. I saw this art supply cake on Pinterest and just had to recreate it. Thankfully, we had enough art supplies laying around to put it together at no additional cost. </div>
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Another fun Pinterest find were these "spilling paint" can decorations. The empty paint cans were about $5 each at Lowe's and the plastic table cloths were from the dollar store. I used tripods (one was mine, one I borrowed) to prop up the paint can to look like it was spilling paint all over the food table. The space under the "paint" tablecloth also made for a good place to stash extra snacks, cupcakes, and supplies out of sight. </div>
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To keep the kids occupied, we set up three activities for them - a chalk wall (black butcher block paper and chalk), a painting activity, and cupcake decorating. Alternating between the activity and free play time worked well for the kids and their parents. It seemed to mix things up and be just the right amount of entertainment while giving parents a break to eat and chat. </div>
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Each child's station had the first letter of their name, smock, brushes, and paint in cut up egg cartons. I grabbed some small canvases as well in case little siblings wanted to do hand/foot print art. We included instructions on the invitation to come dress in clothes appropriate to paint in, which was appreciated by the parents. The paint was washable, but things happen!</div>
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I wasn't sure how the cupcake decorating activity would go, but they loved it! A plain cupcake along with little bits of different decorations (sprinkles, candies, Teddy Grahams, mini marshmallows, colored sugar, etc.) entertained them for way longer than I could have imagined. Clean up was as simple as dumping the excess decorations in the trash and throwing the paint pallets in the dishwasher.</div>
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Charlie's favorite part was blowing out his "4" candle. He had so much fun painting with his friends and playing the afternoon away. </div>
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Each child got a splatter painted goodie bag with their name in crayons (tutorial on the way!) a scroll of paper, paint brushes, and of course their smock and painted letter. There were some beautiful masterpieces created that day!<br />
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The best part of this party theme is that the supplies to make it happen are easy to come by, inexpensive, and if you don't happen to need 100 tiny paintbrushes or big bottles of paint afterwards, can be donated to a daycare or preschool. </div>
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Thanks for checking out Charlie's art party (and being patient with it's slow posting!) Even now, 7 months later, Charlie still talks about his paint party and has kept up his love of everything art. </div>
MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-55049607938870359962015-06-13T08:47:00.000-04:002015-06-13T08:47:00.051-04:00Could you get rid of half of your stuff?If you want to take a real look at the amount of stuff you have, give yourself one week to move it all and half the space to move it into. Talk about enlightening.<br />
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We live in an apartment that we absolutely love, but unfortunately it is in a building scheduled for some pretty heavy renovations this summer. This meant moving all of our belongings to a temporary space from mid-April to the beginning of August, when we could move back in. Problem is, the available apartment was nearly half the size and short one bedroom.<br />
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We knew the move was coming for at least year, but not the exact date. At the beginning of April, we had a meeting with the building and project managers and decided the second week of April would be the week. Wait, what? Yes, I accidentally scheduled a move a week after the meeting deciding said move. I knew the date as a number, but somehow completely missed the small window of time it created.<br />
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We'd live in the apartment for almost 4 years by this point, settling into every nook and cranny. Yet, looking around, we were confident we'd get it done in a day or two. We were so wrong.<br />
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Packing started immediately. Since the actual move date snuck up, we didn't have time to coordinate work schedules. My job is very 9 to 5, but Jeff's is retail hours, so who the heck knows. For a week straight, while one worked, the other packing and watching the kids - two activities that I do not recommend doing alone, at the same time.<br />
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Luckily, my kids are easily entertained and we quickly discovered ways to get them involved. Ginny packed the same box of books and stuffed animals about 900 times and Charlie was in charge of labeling boxes, which as you can imagine, he loved.<br />
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We also had a lot of "need" vs. "want" conversations. How many coffee mugs do we need, exactly? Do I really need three winter coats? Did you realize we still owned this?! Stuff just kept coming out of closets and corners - every time we thought we were nearing the end, we found more to be packed.<br />
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In the end, the move got done. It's hard to truly realize how much stuff you have until you lay hands on every piece of it in a short amount of time. We threw out lot, donated a lot, sold a lot. There is still a significant amount that we ran out of time to go through, so it got packed with the intention of deciding it's fate later.<br />
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Living with essentially 1/3 of our belongings for a summer has been surprisingly refreshing. We don't have a dishwasher anymore and are paying for laundry, yet somehow, the kitchen is cleaner and the laundry is significantly more up to date than in our old place. Why? I think the minimal space motivates us to keep things tidy, but I can't help but wonder if the smaller amount of stuff in general contributes to that as well.<br />
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Fewer toys means they get played with more and are quicker to clean up. Fewer plates and bowls means we need to clean them more frequently to use them again. Same goes for sheets and towels. Pared down wardrobes to fit in smaller closets means we only bring what we'll wear - why are we keeping the rest?<br />
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It's been an interesting time of reflection for both of us and I think our apartment will look drastically different when we move back in and unpack. I want to get rid of a lot of the stuff we have in storage. We just don't need it and there are probably other people out there who do.<br />
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This is another instance where an inconvenience is actually a blessing in disguise.MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-83101043205765582152015-06-12T07:32:00.000-04:002015-06-12T07:32:00.562-04:00Fitness Friday: Baltimore 10 Miler Recap<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_hJS8nid4pbrSEIfGzYZOfhNlidQ02SZmvKAoUTljG8My9ZY7_nCAhU6NDiVoYzI7C0wdNMGbz3JSusfgUAcyvxKDK4iPQhWKgznA_zeMib379oRXJ-DCc1cID5m08nfZDBNohS9VU2V/s1600/11350411_10100411074131448_3282706984541899922_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_hJS8nid4pbrSEIfGzYZOfhNlidQ02SZmvKAoUTljG8My9ZY7_nCAhU6NDiVoYzI7C0wdNMGbz3JSusfgUAcyvxKDK4iPQhWKgznA_zeMib379oRXJ-DCc1cID5m08nfZDBNohS9VU2V/s400/11350411_10100411074131448_3282706984541899922_n.jpg" width="266" /></a>King Crab Challenge Race #2 complete! Last Saturday, Jeff and I left home before the crack of dawn and headed down to beautiful Baltimore for the Baltimore 10 Miler.<br />
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Starting out at the Baltimore Zoo, the 10 Miler is Corrigan Sport's lovely summer jaunt through Druid Hill, the north side of town, and around Lake Montebello. This was our first year at this race and we kept hearing over and over how uncharacteristically kind the weather was; a welcome coincidence.<br />
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Arriving at the race site, parking was easy and the walk up to the starting line was a nice warm up. We were surprised to find a mini expo at the starting/finish area with merchants, freebies, and full news coverage! They had free coffee, Dunkin samples, and even sunscreen. Very cool, Corrigan. The atmosphere was friendly and the weather was mild. Time to get started.<br />
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Jeff and I had discussed on the way down that we wanted to stay together for this race since we'd run the previous few apart. Our goal was to finish in under 2 hours, which is a comfortable 11-something minute/mile pace. Totally doable...as long as the sun didn't come out and kill us. Thankfully, there were pacer groups at good intervals up to 2:00 that we could follow to try and get to our goal.<br />
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We decided to start with the 1:50 pacers to give ourselves a buffer. A 1:50 ten miler is exactly 11:00 mi/mi. I typically run/walk faster and slower than that, averaging to about 11, but never consistently running at that in between 11 mi/mi sweet spot. A race is the PERFECT time to try this out.<br />
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No it's not. Don't do that.<br />
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This was my first 10 miler and I can honestly say, it's an odd distance to pace out. I don't know if my brain kept hearing 10 miler and thinking 10K, but man. The wheels came off around mile 7 and it was all struggle bus from there. Thankfully, we'd picked up a bunch of excess time in the first 5-6 miles, buffering our 11-12 mi/mi on the back end. This makes for "positive splits" and it's not necessarily a good master plan. Does it work? Sometimes. Do you have to basically drag your tired ass over the finish line because you burned out too early? Most likely.<br />
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Lesson learned. If you're going to try and run without walk breaks further than you've ever run in your life, don't make it a race and especially don't make it a hot and sunny summer race.<br />
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In the end, we made our goal and finished together at 1:57 and some change. Waiting for us at the finish line were ice cold wet towels and the best darn watermelon I've ever had. THAT'S how you end a race, people.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwpbuNB9-yxftUsyhyphenhyphenkmftJNgFn2Ka9EN2tF2YwXWb0t9-lLX56VJFSXJsQiDa4HT17u3lLXh-KZbV11WBQHVqppR1rwNB1c-eqlU_uZ7reQe9CNJyOgkJF4fUv-ahAQBLk_HldNoq6sf/s1600/11393006_10100411116880778_5664653293577012347_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwpbuNB9-yxftUsyhyphenhyphenkmftJNgFn2Ka9EN2tF2YwXWb0t9-lLX56VJFSXJsQiDa4HT17u3lLXh-KZbV11WBQHVqppR1rwNB1c-eqlU_uZ7reQe9CNJyOgkJF4fUv-ahAQBLk_HldNoq6sf/s400/11393006_10100411116880778_5664653293577012347_n.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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To make the deal sweeter, the race premium was a buttery soft quarter zip with thumb holes, pockets, and a beautiful embroidered logo and all King Crab Challenge participants got a medal that no one else got. Nah nah nah boo boo.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkh6_yjtZsIqkdFnjsWdAp5xHXunj7ZAygUK4yfqH_r8U_VqLmP0QH88rhauuPncnh1B26s5F3QgVlwYw5Gwmg2hQir-z-dLuxFzUeLxfOYhFUwtVtfmgPurtYfxnXa-lxoDXwIFaZjPFo/s1600/11412244_10100411123287938_7065824076365872966_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkh6_yjtZsIqkdFnjsWdAp5xHXunj7ZAygUK4yfqH_r8U_VqLmP0QH88rhauuPncnh1B26s5F3QgVlwYw5Gwmg2hQir-z-dLuxFzUeLxfOYhFUwtVtfmgPurtYfxnXa-lxoDXwIFaZjPFo/s640/11412244_10100411123287938_7065824076365872966_n.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Gosh, we go on such weird dates. </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The last race in the three part King Crab Challenge is the Baltimore Half Marathon in October. I'm pumped for that one - it's a tremendous race festival with tens of thousands of people, a great expo, and sweet Under Armour swag. Waiting for us at the finish line is the half medal, the Maryland Double medal (Frederick + Baltimore), and a crazy looking medal hanger made of golden crab claws. Gotta love Maryland.<br />
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Keep an eye out, friends - I have an idea brewing to raise some money for a great cause in conjunction with this race. Hopefully, I'll have information put together soon and can share it far and wide.<br />
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D198911262360752004%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D9058012269011491358&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-4XdT-uHaAhI%2FVXpAnzOfVyI%2FAAAAAAAAFps%2FFleyhiDKMos%2Fs400%2F11350411_10100411074131448_3282706984541899922_n.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 413px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D198911262360752004%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D9058012269011491358&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-4XdT-uHaAhI%2FVXpAnzOfVyI%2FAAAAAAAAFps%2FFleyhiDKMos%2Fs400%2F11350411_10100411074131448_3282706984541899922_n.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 413px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-36597891954813389422015-06-11T21:30:00.002-04:002015-06-11T21:30:37.247-04:00I Need an Accountibili-buddy! Someone, please, make me post. I have a strange type of writer's block where I have ideas, but then when I sit down to write, my brain runs away - exhausted from the rest of the day. Anyone else have this problem?<br />
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I need an accountibili-buddy. These are the things I'd like to write about in the coming weeks. Someone please yell at me when you don't see them popping up...<br />
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<ul>
<li>Ginny's Pinkalicious Birthday Party (ya know, from March)</li>
<li>Charlie's Art Birthday Party (even worse...from October)</li>
<li>The fact that we recently moved to a temporary apartment, half the size, and what that looks like. Deciding what to take, what to toss, and what to pack was enlightening.</li>
<li>Toddler/Preschooler chores and how we clean as a family.</li>
<li>My continuously evolving thoughts on raising a child with autism.</li>
<li>Our endeavor into a gluten free diet.</li>
<li>A few product reviews and maybe even a giveaway!</li>
<li>The running and conditioning plan I have for the summer, as well as upcoming races.</li>
<li>Our upcoming (and probably hilarious) attempt at taking the kids camping. </li>
<li>The woefully poor job I did on my 30th birthday bucket list. </li>
<li>How I still can't find adult piano lessons and that sucks.</li>
<li>Summer activities that don't cost anything. </li>
<li>A sewing project here and there.</li>
</ul>
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And hopefully many more. It's been so long since I've consistently updated and I want to fix that. I just need help!</div>
MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-18777876458237875582015-06-01T21:20:00.000-04:002015-06-11T21:20:49.554-04:00I Drank the Tula Kool AidLet's talk about that unexpected time that your 2 1/2 year old suddenly wants to be worn, but all you have is a long outgrown Moby and a nearly outgrown Ergo. That was me a few weeks ago. How can I turn her down? Of course I'll snuggle you, little one! As a bonus, you can't wreck the joint when we go shopping if you're on my back!<br />
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Problem was, the Ergo worked, but not for long. Ginny's not a big kid by any means, but just lanky enough to hang out of the top and sides in way that made it uncomfortable for her after a while.<br />
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Well, after selling all of our cloth diapers, I needed a new obsession anyway. Enter, the Tula.<br />
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So, what is a Tula? A Tula is a baby carrier. That's right, I SAID IT. It's just a baby carrier. You put a baby in it and carry them. I say this because there is an entire culture and society attached to said brand of baby carrier that is both intriguing and overwhelming. Don't get me wrong, this is by far the most comfortable carrier I've ever worn, but the drama and crazy that comes along with stalking, buying, selling, and trading these things is enough to send someone to the looney bin.<br />
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I took the easy way, I think. I jumped on a Buy Sell Trade board, picked one I liked, PMed the seller, sent them money, and got the Tula in the mail. Easy right? I thought so. And I loooooove it.<br />
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She loves it to, I promise. I <i>may</i> have woken her up from a nap to try it on when it came in the mail...<br />
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I get it, they're pretty, they're comfy, and goodness knows the company tries their hardest to play on the scarcity effect with regard to prints. They slap "limited edition" on something and the crazy goes up a few notches! Market value on some of the handmade woven versions are nearly a mortgage payment and no, that is not an exaggeration.<br />
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So we had a Tula. Then, because I didn't remove myself from the BST group, we got...another Tula. I know, I know - I have one child of carrying age/size. Why do I need two? Truthfully, I keep one in the house and one in the car. Could I live with one? Heck, I could live with none, but there is something about them that makes me want them all.<br />
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This is the Tula I fell in love with. Ya know, after the first Tula I fell in love with. This, is Rainbow Gems.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYNf0o-9eRzzdvuXG7AXgfG54CZp1aOHS2D9nB7v_cePF-6kuENvtbzEzinn1PrtPEFYf-Fxn5I3W6svlPpKZdswB_08bKLcNJG0L9tHQeLpWaoaLdrAWPin0U4juqD6zi68IQlvIVmCwi/s1600/11114741_10100395699996338_8400286506967769214_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYNf0o-9eRzzdvuXG7AXgfG54CZp1aOHS2D9nB7v_cePF-6kuENvtbzEzinn1PrtPEFYf-Fxn5I3W6svlPpKZdswB_08bKLcNJG0L9tHQeLpWaoaLdrAWPin0U4juqD6zi68IQlvIVmCwi/s640/11114741_10100395699996338_8400286506967769214_o.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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I know, I talk about it like it's a person or something. But seriously, look at this thing. And look at that face! This is Ginny's "rainbow carry" and she asks for it by name. The hood even has dino spikes! It also came with a lot of sleepy dust, meaning I can grocery shop during nap time without summoning demons.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2NmFN-q1xQDstEOtJLWP7zNmOR1fZm1OoyKojCondsr7NMsM_CQP1UUrMv2DX6M0tq9SABrrl4BS1l8HDtQJ0QMbbJ0qUInLZk-57Z-3W2xNpykvuPoIDizW-5OfrerNZHuTBZk3hSthl/s1600/10153150_10100411781962948_4777402646524380509_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2NmFN-q1xQDstEOtJLWP7zNmOR1fZm1OoyKojCondsr7NMsM_CQP1UUrMv2DX6M0tq9SABrrl4BS1l8HDtQJ0QMbbJ0qUInLZk-57Z-3W2xNpykvuPoIDizW-5OfrerNZHuTBZk3hSthl/s400/10153150_10100411781962948_4777402646524380509_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We have the toddler size for Ginny, which goes up to 50lbs! The standard version is good for itty bitties up to toddlers about 40lbs. Ginny could technically fit in a standard, but since she fits in a toddler, why not size up. I could even carry Charlie if he wasn't all torso. Kid can nearly see over my head when he's on my back! In a pinch, I'd totally carry him though. Despite being about 43lbs, his weight was very well distributed across my waist and shoulders making him feel surprisingly light.<br />
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Yeah, yeah, yeah, so I had a third one, but I sold it! I'm not addicted. ::twitch::<br />
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At retail, the canvas carriers run between $160 and $190, depending on print and what not. Don't even ask about market value, but it's more than that. While it's not easy to get one direct from a store or site, there are a lot for sale at or below retail.<br />
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Honestly, since they hold their value, I'm not worried about the cost; when we're done, I'll be able to resell them at or above what I paid. It's not a sale, it's an investment. Yes, I really tell myself that crap.<br />
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If you're in the market for a new carrier, I highly recommend the Tula. It's well made, quality materials, soft and genuinely comfortable. If you're skiddish about spending that much money without trying one on, check if your area has a baby wearing group or chapter of <a href="http://babywearinginternational.org/" rel="nofollow">Babywearing International</a>. Many of those groups have carriers you can try on or even borrow to see if you like them before laying out the money.<br />
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In the meantime, I'll be over here, wearing my happy kiddo on the go (while getting strange looks and comments from strangers...but that's an entirely different blog post).MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-92152071257673753202015-05-08T06:39:00.000-04:002015-05-09T22:41:52.424-04:00Back at It - The Frederick Running Festival<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9sO28tvoacp0x6nYPFE4ea8zPTaI7naLKHulWFuL2KvBvlH-cuHyav9vR7KUG_cVYISZgbrTktlGYH1h_HgGTDibE9kVw-04Gb6M4pOcN1sB19R4A9gmUzUSKY0tCFpLsFTjA0CyXre8x/s1600/11128700_10100384915219118_2169253399253022508_n+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9sO28tvoacp0x6nYPFE4ea8zPTaI7naLKHulWFuL2KvBvlH-cuHyav9vR7KUG_cVYISZgbrTktlGYH1h_HgGTDibE9kVw-04Gb6M4pOcN1sB19R4A9gmUzUSKY0tCFpLsFTjA0CyXre8x/s400/11128700_10100384915219118_2169253399253022508_n+copy.jpg" width="225" /></a>Hyner View scared me. A lot. I wasn't able to train at all in between Hyner and Frederick because of the concussion. Technically, if you ask my doctor, I shouldn't have run Frederick at all....but let's not talk about that. Frederick was a big deal and even more so coming off a DNF. I planned to run my first challenge; back to back races with extra sweet bling as a reward.<br />
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The Frederick Nut Job Challenge is a 5K and half marathon about 12 hours apart. Not exactly the Dopey Challenge, but cut a girl some slack. I needed to drive down there to get my race packet on Saturday anyway, so why not run the 5K while I was at it. Spoken like a true, crazy runner.<br />
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Packet pick up was quick and the race shirts are soft and comfortable. These are some of my favorite race things. They're right up there with the spectators that hold out tissue boxes during cold weather races. On point.<br />
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The 5K was pretty uneventful, which is fine with me. The sun was pretty brutal, especially on the loop back, and my lack of sunglasses made me seriously regret that decision. Despite a wicked (probably sun and concussion related....ugh) headache that crept up in the last mile, I finished in 34:00 exactly. I'll take it.<br />
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The next morning, Jeff and I left the house at 5AM to pick up Nicole and head down to the race. We were slightly panicked about making it in time, but were pleasantly surprised with how easy parking was when we got there. We parked in a field and walked about 200 yards to the starting line. What is easier than that?! Corrals were not predetermined, but instead broken up by pace time and marked by signs and pace teams. This is what I love about this running festival - small town feeling, but all the perks and ease of a "big" race! Plus, who starts a race with a hot air balloon launch?! Amazing.<br />
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Knowing the potential for some hot weather, I decided to break out my Camelbak again to stay hydrated. I also brought sunglasses this time! With a 7AM start time, there was still a lot of sun to come up.<br />
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The race course itself was easy, scenic, and lined with neighborhoods of excited spectators. Again, small race, big feel. The first few miles of any race are pretty awful for me, but after the first 5K or so, I'm warmed up and ready to roll. This time, the thing that got me over the hump and into smooth sailing? Dunkin Donuts Munchkins. Seriously. Mile three water station gave out freaking chocolate munchkins. I didn't care what else happened - those little things hit the spot.<br />
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The rest of the race was comfortable and fun. I wasn't staring at the clock the whole time (goodness knows I wasn't looking down at my feet...) and I could just watch the other runners, check out the spectator signs, and take food from strangers. No, really - there were families handing out fruit, candy, and drinks along the course that ran through neighborhoods. Gummy bears at mile 8? Yes, please!<br />
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I got a little ache in my right ankle towards the end, which slowed me down a bit, but nothing to get upset over. I headed up the last hill to the fair grounds and still had a smile on my face. Besides, this "hill" had nothing on Hyner! I finished with a respectable 2:34:22. Not bad for running against doctor's orders.<br />
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By the time I finished, Jeff and Nicole had already gotten their medals and were waiting for me. We got our beer, then sat down and enjoyed some of the live music before heading home.<br />
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I absolutely loved running Frederick and hope to come back next year. I can't emphasize enough how simple, friendly, and organized this race was. You could really enjoy running because you weren't worried about all the logistics. There were no parking issues, shuttles to catch, crazy bag check lines, port o potty wars....none of it. You came, you ran, you partied. The way it should be. Thanks Frederick for a great race!<br />
<br />MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-83079548169368213822015-05-01T16:31:00.000-04:002015-05-01T16:31:10.504-04:00I'm Not Qualified for This Job...Have you ever been thrown into a job that you were completely unqualified to do, but had to do anyway? I know that can describe parenting in general, but it's been extra obvious to me as of late as we continue to navigate Charlie's diagnosis and what that means for him.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD8BKgJXBEYIVPPsJpFOeHZwvFqnjxYkPjYJG_u7i8odneFRQAN6wIkfKM9mHempbT1jHkXroR2CW5N3HWLD3zFcIyZ1u8-mA4GBXDZjYyg8k-TTAn9q49RvKeuOdKmTJtr7a9no0HRfol/s1600/IMG_1179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD8BKgJXBEYIVPPsJpFOeHZwvFqnjxYkPjYJG_u7i8odneFRQAN6wIkfKM9mHempbT1jHkXroR2CW5N3HWLD3zFcIyZ1u8-mA4GBXDZjYyg8k-TTAn9q49RvKeuOdKmTJtr7a9no0HRfol/s1600/IMG_1179.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a>The thing about Autism that I never realized before now is that there is no "Autism doctor." There is no one specialist that you go to for your Autism appointment to address your Autism at regular check up intervals. In reality, there is an unending list of therapists with varying specialties, a thousand theories and methods to address, treat, and even "cure" the disorder, and don't even get me started on getting all of this covered by insurance. There is literally everything from dieticians, to physicians, teachers, therapists, to heck...swim instructors, camp directors, and horseback riding programs, all toting their methodology as being best for children on the spectrum.<br />
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Where do you even start? What is right for your child? I'll be the first to admit - right now, I have no idea what is best for my child. I don't know what he needs; I don't know how he's feeling and he won't/can't tell me. <br />
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While we are waiting on his medical assistance paperwork to be approved (commence breath holding...) all we can do is try to support his anxiety and behaviors at home. The struggle never seems to end though; is this because he's four and four year olds are unruly at times? Or "is this the Autism..." Which just feels awkward and dehumanizing to think of in that way. Essentially wondering, is this normal? Should we challenge him on xyz because it'll help him grown and learn? Or will challenging him on this particular thing hurdle him into a panic attack?<br />
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Might as well flip a coin, because your guess is as good as mine. <br />
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The truth, a truth I can't seem to get through my head, is that it doesn't matter what typical development looks like anymore. Typical is not necessarily typical for Charlie. Sure, he'll adhere to some trajectories, but for the most part, he is going to be on his own path through his own forest. Maybe my frustration isn't frustration at all; maybe it's fear that we will lose him in that forest.<br />
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As the past several months have gone by, Charlie has started to shut out activities he once enjoyed like puzzles, Legos, and coloring (not writing, just coloring). He spends an obsessive about of time each day focused on letters; spelling, saying, writing, pointing out letters. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTOnMqVBORk3GCECgLYME4DtzjP25SM2Nm3uolGRjqL5Bl1tOLmeelF_nUlDE6CG2veteibY5Sl5tf4r6CFTDL-r632F29iCDECB8tmTPaWGQ9zZxCXc0-qn0Ft8vO6xQWn5oHmVJQCtF/s1600/5+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTOnMqVBORk3GCECgLYME4DtzjP25SM2Nm3uolGRjqL5Bl1tOLmeelF_nUlDE6CG2veteibY5Sl5tf4r6CFTDL-r632F29iCDECB8tmTPaWGQ9zZxCXc0-qn0Ft8vO6xQWn5oHmVJQCtF/s1600/5+copy.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a>Most attempts to leave the house have turned from resistance to sobbing meltdowns. Over the past few weeks, he's developed a few new stim/tic type behaviors that friends have suggested, coupled with the shutting down behavior, could be anxiety from moving and/or Ginny's surgery. It breaks my heart to know he's hurting or confused, but doesn't know how to process or communicate it.<br />
<br />
This is where I feel unqualified for this job. I don't know how to help him right now. I want to think that getting medical assistance and starting some kind of therapy or getting a TSS will be the magic bullet, but I know it won't be. It's only part of the equation.<br />
<br />
They say that a bumblebee, when considering the laws of aerodynamics,
shouldn't be able to fly, but being unaware of those laws, it flies
anyway. So much of this has to do with us, Jeff and me, realizing and accepting that to Charlie, his world is completely normal and any insinuation contrary to that comes from us and others around him. Even if I can't do anything else right now, I need to keep reminding myself of that.<br />
<br />MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-37449738348991681872015-04-27T07:04:00.000-04:002015-05-09T21:54:24.476-04:00Hyner View Challenge: My 1st DNFIt happens to everyone at some point, I suppose. That awful moment when they rip the tracker off your bib and mark down that you Did Not Finish. The reasons are all different, but the sinking feeling of failure is the same...<br />
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The Hyner View Challenge is not for the faint of heart. It's a 25K trail race through the mountains of the Bald Eagle mountain range. Even in the best of weather, it's a brutal, wet, uphill struggle to the end. Comprised of three mountains (Humble Hill, Psycho-Path, and SOB) - a total 4,200 feet of elevation gain. With over 20 stream crossings and sections steep enough to have you on hands and knees, grabbing at trees and roots for stability, it isn't like any other race I'd done before.<br />
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I'm not necessarily new to running, but from the moment I got to the starting line and looked around, I realized that trail running and road running were two very different worlds. There were no costumes or tutus on these runners, no - there were only gear packs, hiking boots, and lots of preparation for God knows what they'd find over the next several hours.<br />
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The first mile was on road - crossing a bridge to get to the trail head. Once we hit the start of the trail, everything stopped. All 1,200 runners bottle necking to a single file line as we entered the route. Not what I was expecting. Once we got through, another mile or two were spent along a cliff side, still in single file. What kind of race is this again? My Garmin was practically crying, clocking 25-30 minute miles as we trotted along the thin trail.<br />
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Then....it got hard. I would take 25K along the cliffside to avoid the nightmare that was Humble Hill. Every few hundred feet, you thought you were getting to the top; only to turn a slight curve and see another several hundred feet straight up the path. I have never been in so much pain - climbing a mile straight up a hill is no joke. Thankfully, I was with a friend - Emmy. She had not only done Hyner the year before, but had been training on these hills since she lived in the area. Whether she will admit it or not, she got my ass up that hill.<br />
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"Slow down if you have to, but don't stop. You can't stop. Just keep going." she said, over and over. I stopped several times and she was right - it was hard to get started again. At the top of Hyner View, we'd hit only about 4 miles, meaning there was two mountains and about 12 miles more to go. Insane, right? But really, check out this view.<br />
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The aid station at the top was amazing. Water, every flavor of gatorade, sandwiches, pretzels, candy, fruit....you name it. They were filling water bottles and Camelbaks, giving out bandaids, and checking on runners. The volunteers were wonderful and so encouraging. I had to stop for a selfie before hitting the road again...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jen was here.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The way down was actually kind of fun. Some were so steep I swore my toes would burst through the front of my shoes, others were flat enough to have a run at it. The next two sections, The Hollow and Johnson's Run, were the most beautiful and enjoyable, but unfortunately for me, the most dangerous.<br />
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The Hollow was the valley between the two mountains. It was gorgeous; tremendous trees gave off much needed shade and cool streams jetting in all directions across the basin floor. The Hollow is also where you get wet. Emmy told me it would happen. She said, "I don't have time to stay dry. You're going to get wet, so just get wet" as she barreled through a stream, around a few runners trying to balance their way across on fallen logs. Truthfully, the cold water felt wonderful on my already sore feet, so I didn't mind sloshing through the shin deep water.....over and over again.<br />
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After The Hollow, we started up hill again. Johnson's Run and Psycho-Path are a fairly horrible combination of climbing over, under, and around trees and rocks. It also means climbing straight up a hill made of river rocks, mud, and wild branches. This was also, unfortunately, when the temperature began to skyrocket past the anticipated high of 70* to a sweltering mid-80's nightmare. Fifteen degrees doesn't sound like much, but when you're exerting this much energy, it can wreck your plans to have a good time.<br />
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When I run, I look up. I learned early on to not look at my feet; it's just road - it'll be there. This, was different though. Anytime I tried to focus on what was in front of me, I found myself slipping and tripping on what was directly under me; the terrain was too unpredictable. Walking at full speed ahead, I was looking down as I navigated across a patch of mud and sticks. With my hat on, I never saw it coming. A full size tree, laying horizontally about three feet off the ground, was an easy obstacle to duck under, but instead, I ran right into it head first.<br />
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The impact rang down my neck and into my shoulders, knocking me on my back. I stood up, what felt like instantly, and stood there for a second. People ran to me asking if I was okay, which surprised me because it didn't seem like a big deal. I remember walking, I remember hitting my head, I remember falling. Somewhere in there, I must have blacked out for a second because apparently it was a pretty loud, hard thunk.<br />
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I kept going; I wasn't in pain and felt fine, so why not? It was only mile 7 and there was plenty of race left. This is where things went down hill, fast. The ascent to the peak of the second mountain was grueling. Climbing over rocks and having to grab trees to keep moving forward. I found a walking stick at one point to give me leverage. About a mile out from the mile 9 aid station, things got fuzzy. I suddenly felt like I was hit by a truck - my head, neck, and shoulders ached and I was dizzy and nauseous. I hadn't even considered the head thunk and thought I was dehydrated.<br />
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As I climbed the last few hundred feet, I could no longer move my head or open my mouth; everything was stiff. I got to the top and found Emmy. I could hardly speak and the look on my face must have told her something was not right. She pointed to the aid station and I walked over. I told them something was wrong and they sat me down. I told Emmy to go ahead, I'd catch up. She was in it for time, I just wanted to finish. No reason to hold her up while I got myself together.<br />
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My temp was 101, my O2 saturation was in the 80's, and my blood pressure was the rock bottom of normal. After talking to me for a few minutes, the EMS volunteer in charge told me that she wasn't comfortable letting me continue, especially with another 7 miles to go. A race volunteer came over and took my bib tracker - I was done. I wanted to cry, but the truth was that I was so out of it and scared with how I felt that I was relieved to be getting help.<br />
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I wish I had more pictures to share of this beautiful race course. Unfortunately, I spent the rest of the day in the hospital getting fluids and being monitored for what ended up being a concussion. I know better than to run with my head down, but this terrain tripped me up (literally and figuratively). After some time in the hospital and a few days of rest, I felt better, but apparently healing from a concussion can take several weeks.<br />
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In related news, concussions suck. Headaches, confusion, forgetfulness - all things that I do not need in my life, especially this time of year at work. Now, a few weeks later, the headaches are gone and the forgetfulness/confusion is going away as well.<br />
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Honestly, I don't think I'll attempt Hyner again. Having gone up two of those three mountains was enough for me to gain a huge amount of respect for the people who complete it, year after year. I think I'll stick to road races; fewer trees to hit. I'll leave the trail races to the crazy awesome trail runners who make it look easy.<br />
<br />MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-82142996917201601732015-04-08T09:26:00.001-04:002015-04-08T09:26:08.201-04:00Cleaning Up the DraftsWhen I logged back in this past weekend, I created a new post, typed it up, and submitted it. Once you submit a post, you get a view of your overall post dashboard. There were a lot of drafts; ideas in various states of fulfillment. Some were a paragraph, some just titles with a few bullet points I wanted to cover. There are posts about crafts, kids, DIY, running....the whole nine. I'll delete a few, write a few, and create more I'm sure.<br />
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I guess my question is, what do you want to read? What do you want to know? Help me get out of this writing funk!<br />
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For your contribution, here is a cute kid picture. Enjoy. <br />
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<br />MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-54498103272464969892015-04-06T07:39:00.000-04:002015-08-22T15:02:11.808-04:00Three MonthsWow, worst post and run ever. I didn't mean to go missing for over three months, but here we are. The truth is, I just didn't feel like writing. I started this post over and over, but had no motivation to actually write. Call it a blogging depression. Wait, I think that's called writer's block? I don't know. With so much going on around here, I guess I've done a lot more thinking than writing, but I think it was for the best.<br />
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So where have I been?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheeie2P5S7NLhg-wMWQps5ehlkMpw0CKlfj4GlQr0wivP6gRiSGIapVXGLXa_a_SUhPjfYYeYq0eALscntnKO89oX7mTHGsGeiQ4NvUqzvWuONMMzlbb5vE2L9IJraXv2GUL2VxhwZWB07/s1600/11042668_10100355663120558_8757924448969579652_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheeie2P5S7NLhg-wMWQps5ehlkMpw0CKlfj4GlQr0wivP6gRiSGIapVXGLXa_a_SUhPjfYYeYq0eALscntnKO89oX7mTHGsGeiQ4NvUqzvWuONMMzlbb5vE2L9IJraXv2GUL2VxhwZWB07/s1600/11042668_10100355663120558_8757924448969579652_n.jpg" width="225" /></a>Since Charlie's diagnosis in December, we've had his IEP meeting and gotten services started at daycare. He receives speech once a week and specialized instruction and occupational therapy each twice a month on alternating weeks. While helpful, these services focus on school goals, not home/life goals, so it's a little...spotty. Because of this, we feel like we are floating in an awkward purgatory of knowing there is more we can do for him, but being completely unequipped to do anything about it. As educated and well meaning parents, this has made Jeff and me feel really crappy.<br />
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Thankfully, in this awful settling stage, we've made connections with other parents who find themselves in a similar situation and though we obviously wish this club on no one, it's comforting to know we're not alone.<br />
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Once Charlie is set up with medical assistance, we'll be able to get him additional services and maybe even a TSS to help get us on track at home. Otherwise, he's doing wonderfully. He has been healthy all winter, has developed a slight obsession with Legos and space, and starts soccer in a few weeks.<br />
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Ginny is doing well, just turned two! I'll recap her birthday soon (seen as I never did a post for Charlie's last October). She is talking up a storm and has been developing such a fun imagination, mostly surrounding her love of baby dolls and taking care of them. Unfortunately, she's scheduled for surgery in a few weeks, but more on that in another post after her pre-op appointments.<br />
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Jeff and I are doing great. In January, Jeff got a job managing a new sporting goods store in the area and we've both been doing a lot more running - even ran a race together! We're planning another Disney trip for the fall, working on some heavy spring cleaning, and finding time to be together amongst the madness. The less great news is that I haven't had much time to do any kind of craft or project, which has me feeling pretty blah. Hopefully, with summer coming, I will find time to make something.<br />
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So that is the brief update. I'm hoping to fill in the gaps and catch up over the next...however long. This time without three months radio silence. I promise.MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-90580122690114913582015-03-23T16:29:00.000-04:002015-06-11T20:43:36.012-04:00A New Shamrockin' PRDespite it being an amazing race, my screwed up footwear at the Annapolis Running Classic put me in a boot through most of the winter. It's easy to make excuses to not run in the ice and snow, but I spent most of the time aching (literally) to get outside. I am one of those weirdos who LOVES running in the ice cold. Subfreezing? Bring it on. I'd much rather shiver than sweat! The boot, however, dictated my laziness.<br />
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The boot finally came off sometime in January and it was time to get back at it. A 5K here and there and some training runs were pretty unmotivated. I needed a race to train for. Sarah suggested the Shamrock Half Marathon in Virginia Beach - a tremendous, organized, and super flat half with a killer expo. Sounded like the perfect race to get me back into things.<br />
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The Yuengling Shamrock race series has been going on for quite a number of years, but was more recently acquired by J&A Racing and turned into the behemoth running extravaganza that it is today. Approximately 20,000 runners descend upon an otherwise sleepy, off season Virginia Beach for three days of running, shopping, and of course, delicious Pennsylvania beer.<br />
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I chose to run the half, while Sarah ran the Dolphin Challenge (8K + half). Since Sarah was running the 8K on Saturday, I volunteered to give out medals at the finish line. Coolest. job. ever. Let me tell you, these medals weigh a TON when you have 40 of them on your arm.<br />
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Handing out medals to people as they reached their goal was an entirely new perspective on racing than I'd had. Despite being around a ton of people, racing is a pretty personal endeavor, so being able to see it from the other side; all of the smiling, relieved faces as they crossed the finish line and collected their prize. It was wonderful!<br />
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After the morning run, there was more beach and a tremendous expo to see. Everything from shoes and socks to gear and clothes to other races were on display in the expo hall. Exciting stuff for someone who'd only done small time races. That night, Sarah, her brother Adam, and I loaded up on the carbs at the hotel's pasta buffet dinner, laid out our gear for the morning, and headed to bed early - 4AM was coming quickly. I decided to wear my Under Armour Infrared hoodie and tights like I did in Annapolis. Paired with my sparkly green skirt and rainbow leg warmers, I was ready to sham...rock.<br />
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The thing I consistently noticed about Shamrock was that J&A's volunteers were incredibly, unwaveringly organized. From signage to bag check to race set up, I always felt like I knew what was going on and things went smoothly. Between the people, the guidebook, signs, and the app, there was a never a question what was going on where. We took the hotel's transportation to the race and then walked to the starting line. We got there pretty early, so we hunted down a bathroom and found a hotel lobby to stay warm in. The weather was mild, but still felt chilly that early in the morning.<br />
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Being Adam's first half, he and Sarah had planned to stick together and keep a good steady pace, but not rush it. Me, on the other hand, I was poised and ready to haul ass to the finish line. We started, ear buds went in, and off I went. I felt good, really good. I looked at my first mile time and had a slight panic attack - a 10:40 mi/mi. Eeeek! Too fast, too fast. At least I thought so. Mile two: 10:44. Mile three: 10:51. Mile after mile I was staying around 10:40-50.<br />
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Along the route I was focused. Music going, gear was comfy - it was perfect. Then it got more perfect. If you haven't raced in Virginia Beach, you need to. Front of the pack to back of the pack; the neighborhoods you run through are READY for your arrival with signs, snacks, drinks...MIMOSAS! It's like some weird version of tailgating. I am pretty sure I saw a pop tent and a grill going.... And whoever was giving out gummy bears? On. point.<br />
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Ah, races. The only acceptable time to literally take candy from strangers.<br />
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Coming down Atlantic Avenue, with about a mile left, my legs turned to lead. The cramps were horrible. I knew I had such little left to go and no one walks on the boardwalk! Maybe it was the friendly neighborhoods, maybe it was the beach air, maybe it was the ridiculously flat course, but somehow, I was able to maintain an average of 10:55 mi/mi throughout the race and finished with a PR crushing 2:23:55 - nearly 6 minutes off my previous record at Hershey.<br />
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I wanted to cry. I flew over the finish line, grabbed my medal and goodies, and hobbled my way to the beach with a much deserved beer. I miss the beach so much; it'd been years since I sat on the sand. This was the perfect end to a race that I was truly proud of.<br />
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And thank goodness they give you a beach towel at the end because the minute you stop running, you freeze your buns off. After regaining some of the feeling in my legs, there was one last thing I needed to do before leaving the finish line area...<br />
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RING THE PR BELL!<br />
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What an amazing weekend. Shamrock is going to be a pretty tough time to beat, but it's just a new challenge to tackle. Thank you J&A for a fabulous race! See you next year!<br />
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<br />MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-5072378025606554522014-12-22T11:11:00.000-05:002014-12-23T10:00:03.198-05:00Nothing Has Changed, Yet Everything Has ChangedEmily Pearl Kingsly wrote a short story that became a beacon for a group of parents around the world. She asked the reader to imagine planning a fabulous trip to a place they've always wanted to go. You read the guide books, make lists of what you want to see and do, and learn the language. Imagine that you pack your bags and set off on your trip, but when you arrive, you're not in the place you'd been planning for; you're in a different place and can't leave. It's not a bad place, but it's not at all the place you'd expected to end up.<br />
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Kingsly's story, "<a href="http://www.child-autism-parent-cafe.com/welcome-to-holland.html" rel="nofollow">Welcome to Holland</a>" illustrates the shock, confusion, and grief of finding out that your child has special needs.<br />
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On Thursday, Charlie was diagnosed with Autism.<br />
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Whether we'd openly admit it or not, Jeff and I have always known in our hearts that something was different about Charlie. As our first child, it's always been an internal battle of wondering and worrying what was normal, what was concerning. Were we expecting too much? Were we making excuses for concerning behaviors?<br />
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When the evaluation process began a few weeks ago, <a href="http://www.allfourloveblog.com/2014/12/weve-been-waiting-for-tuesday.html" rel="nofollow">I posted about his upcoming appointment</a>, but never follow up about it. I was waiting to hear the whole story before attempting to retell it and even now, it's still a jumbled mess in my head. That day, he met with a psychologist, a speech therapist, and an occupational therapist. They played, they talked, did puzzles, and colored while I met with a case worker who asked me questions for about 2 hours. Coupled with his preschool teacher's evaluation and the therapists' experience that day, they concluded that Charlie has developmental delays surrounding cognition, language, and sensory self regulation and that he qualified for several types of therapy and special education instruction.<br />
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Charlie doesn't converse with us like a 4 year old should because he doesn't fully understand what we're saying. He's very intelligent, but without being able to process and communicate, it's all trapped in his head. Covered with a thick layer of anxiety, the psychologist said that the world is a pretty overwhelming and confusing place for Charlie. She said that he has many skills, but that without therapy, he won't have access to them. She also said that their interactions that day concerned her and that she wanted to conduct the ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule); the "gold standard" in testing for Autsim spectrum disorders.<br />
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Last Thursday, December 18th, we returned for the ADOS. Charlie met with the same group as before and gave them all hugs when he saw them again. "Mommy's friends" he called them. I sat in a little room connected to the assessment room and could hear them talk and play through the two way glass. At first, all I could hope was that he passed everything with flying colors, but as the test went on and I heard them having the same one-sided, confusing conversations with Charlie as we do at home, my heart settled. They were seeing exactly what we were seeing; we weren't asking the wrong questions or talking to him in the wrong way.<br />
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At one point, they tried to get him to play with a doll house. "Do you want to be the Mommy or the Daddy?" they asked, holding up little plastic figures. He ignored them, arranging and rearranging the furniture. When he finally took a figure, he mimicked the motions and sounds of "play," but was obviously confused as to what they wanted him to do. Again and again through the little interactions and conversations, he came up quiet, confused, or focused on arranging/counting/spelling instead.<br />
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After about 90 minutes, they went to discuss and came back in with their findings. This is the part where I remember bits and pieces, but most of it is a blur. The psychologist said that Charlie has a really, really hard time interacting with others. He isn't sure how to read people or situations, doesn't take part in conversations, and has a hard time transitioning from one thing to another. Socially and cognitively, he is on par with a much younger child. She said that she was diagnosing him with Autism. She said that based on the language and skills that he does have, therapy will help tremendously, but that this would be a long road of keeping him on the right track developmentally.<br />
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We talked about services, went through a huge stack of resource materials, and they answered whatever questions I could cobble together in my spinning head. The psychologist could tell I was overwhelmed; anyone would be.<br />
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"Go home," she said, "Enjoy the holiday and we'll talk about the details in the new year. Oh, and Mom," she added, "You get wine with dinner tonight."<br />
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So here we are in Holland. It's not where we'd planned to be, but where we feared we'd end up. We are heartbroken and anxious, but getting the diagnosis also gave an odd sense of relief. We could finally stop worrying and wondering and start doing and helping. Nothing has really changed, he's still Charlie, he's still the same exact person he was before. The only thing that has changed is our level of understanding and information about him and what he needs.<br />
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As confident as that sounds, I go back and forth between grieving the loss of the future we thought Charlie would have and being at peace that we can do this and he will be successful in his own right. And back and forth and back and forth. I'm scared and I'm already exhausted just thinking of the road ahead filled with therapy, special schooling, routine changes....and not letting it all absorb so much of our lives that we forget we have a second child.<br />
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Today, I'm having an "at peace" day. This morning, at least. I found this quote yesterday and it almost put me in tears. I find it appropriate that it's by Joseph Campbell, as I feel like Charlie's diagnosis is my call to adventure. I don't claim to be an epic hero by any means, but we are certainly embarking on a life changing journey.<br />
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<br />MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-31604661272210527752014-12-19T07:57:00.000-05:002014-12-22T09:36:31.904-05:00Top 5 Stocking Stuffers for Runners<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">**This week's Fitness Friday is sponsored by FlipBelt. This review was a match made in running heaven; I love FlipBelt, they love sponsoring bloggers, thus we bring you this gift countdown! This post also contains external and affiliate links.**</span></div>
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It's getting to Christmas crunch time and if you're anything like me, stocking stuffers always end up last. Let me help you out with the runner in your life! Here is my top 5 favorite inexpensive, stocking sized products that I think every runner should own.<br />
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<b>5. Feetures Socks</b><br />
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These are by far my favorite socks for running. <a href="http://www.feeturesrunning.com/" rel="nofollow">Feetures</a> are lightweight, comfortable, prevent annoying rubbing and blisters, keep your feet dry, and the Merino wool ones are incredibly warm. There are a several cuts, cushioning levels, colors, and styles to match your needs, but all provide incredible support and comfort - even on long runs. I buy mine at my local running store (woo-hoo B3G1 sales!), but you can also <a href="http://www.amazon.com/mn/search/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=feetures&linkCode=ur2&tag=homforthr-20&url=search-alias%3Daps&linkId=5OQFJPI4TTCCCQLO">find them on Amazon</a> or through the <a href="http://www.feeturesrunning.com/" rel="nofollow">Feetures website</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://files.www.fleetfeetrochester.com/shop/products/feetures.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://files.www.fleetfeetrochester.com/shop/products/feetures.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>4. Sweatbands</b><br />
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I know what you're thinking - welcome back to the 80's. I'm serious though! Both Jeff and I swear by our sweatbands. When you're running, mostly in the warmer weather, and you have nothing to wipe your face on it's incredibly annoying. The simple, yet brilliant, sweatband is the answer. We have Adidas brand, but almost any will do the trick. Mine are pink - shocker, right? Get your 80's on.<br />
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If you're looking for something a little more stylish, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007UFV228/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007UFV228&linkCode=as2&tag=homforthr-20&linkId=6CIN5FH75DVSLW6S" rel="nofollow">the Handana</a> has been on my own wish list this year. Worn wrapped around your hand, the high performance material absorbs sweat and dries quickly. Since it's antimicrobial it won't get funky, which is always a plus!<br />
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<a href="http://womenyoushouldknow.net/marketplace/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/handana-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://womenyoushouldknow.net/marketplace/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/handana-.jpg" height="250" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>3. RoadID</b><br />
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I've <a href="http://www.allfourloveblog.com/2014/07/fitness-friday-safety-with-road-id.html" rel="nofollow">written about RoadID before</a> and still agree that it's a running must have. These super customizable wrist bands have up to 6 lines of writing to inform others how to help you in an emergency. Information like your name, birthdate, emergency contact information, blood type, allergies or medical conditions can be invaluable when seconds count. I know a few people who have had to rely on their RoadID to speak for them when they couldn't and they are endlessly thankful they had it on when it mattered most.<br />
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Don't know what to put on a gift ID? <a href="http://www.roadid.com/?referrer=28337" rel="nofollow">Get a gift card</a> and let them design it!<br />
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<b>2. YurBuds headphones</b><br />
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I'm 99% sure these are the most comfortable headphones on the planet. Seriously. Made of medical grade silicone, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NTRQ4KG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00NTRQ4KG&linkCode=as2&tag=homforthr-20&linkId=DMD635UGLDSWULLX" rel="nofollow">YurBuds</a> are molded in a way that they lock into your ear and don't fall out, even when running or doing other high impact movements. They're sweat and germ resistant so they don't get funky and the package comes with two insert sizes so they're almost guaranteed to fit. I've worn these for a few half marathons and forget that I'm even wearing them. Plus, and this is important, they come in a rainbow of awesome colors.<br />
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<a href="http://firstoffthebike.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/yurbuds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://firstoffthebike.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/yurbuds.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>1. FlipBelt</b><br />
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This is one of my new favorites (and no, not just because they gave me one to try out). I've worn my fair share of running belts, but this one is amazing! <a href="http://www.flipbelt.com/?utm_source=FitApproach&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=FitApproach2" rel="nofollow">The FlipBelt</a> is a circular tube of stretchy, comfortable fabric with a continuous pocket that runs around the whole thing. With four openings, you can easily insert and remove the things you need to carry. Need easy access to everything? Wear it with the openings on the outside. Don't worry, your stuff will stay in! Need to lock it away for safe keeping while you barrel through miles 11 through 13? Flip the belt so the openings are against your body. Your stuff is going nowhere!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmTTBZTPrsbA2mZ9RpGbeae-rXDmRZtjuyUupBDcMvbcIPyi5G9nkwZm6eGyOZ7X6cwNa7HtAXNtFCFZhikwN_AeGMCCo0n8asLW40Sv1ZkFaRr_t0FwFGP7cxcEuZEIoN0N2R_7KrVNDF/s1600/_MG_2407+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmTTBZTPrsbA2mZ9RpGbeae-rXDmRZtjuyUupBDcMvbcIPyi5G9nkwZm6eGyOZ7X6cwNa7HtAXNtFCFZhikwN_AeGMCCo0n8asLW40Sv1ZkFaRr_t0FwFGP7cxcEuZEIoN0N2R_7KrVNDF/s1600/_MG_2407+copy.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I find this belt to be incredibly comfortable, even full of stuff. Since it hugs your body like the waist band of a good pair of yoga pants, it doesn't bounce. The belt is sized, so if its a gift, make sure you order the right one! I wear a size 8 pants and ordered a medium.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIVFN0cwYdtYDmymddTrXuuafPWALjWYAZWXSykq4ggZ0J0PfuqySmQWPcgkSpQZpLYkr8GQLOQzBA4-goYfnqWPxuz590YIaPLoeu3rDhy5j-JQ0lLZ3RyYx6t6YksUlKvmyRqdqvdO45/s1600/_MG_2410+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIVFN0cwYdtYDmymddTrXuuafPWALjWYAZWXSykq4ggZ0J0PfuqySmQWPcgkSpQZpLYkr8GQLOQzBA4-goYfnqWPxuz590YIaPLoeu3rDhy5j-JQ0lLZ3RyYx6t6YksUlKvmyRqdqvdO45/s1600/_MG_2410+copy.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Would you like a coupon code for 33% off a <a href="http://www.flipbelt.com/?utm_source=FitApproach&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=FitApproach2" rel="nofollow">FlipBelt</a>? Send me an email and I'll send one* your way! Miss out on the 33% code? No worries - all readers get 10% off their entire order with coupon code Sweat10 at check out! Thanks FlipBelt!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(*One per person, to the first 15 people who contact me)</span><br />
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Have fun stuffing your runner's stocking!<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=198911262360752004" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=198911262360752004" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-64514106192607510002014-12-01T22:21:00.002-05:002014-12-01T22:21:59.378-05:00We've Been Waiting for TuesdayFor the few weeks, we've been waiting for Tuesday. Tomorrow, the 2nd. It's been marked on the calendar for one thing or another for weeks now and it's almost here. I know I've been a little sporadic lately around here; it's been busy and yadda yadda yadda. I want to post; I have ideas and draft after draft started, but I've been distracted by too many other things to count. <div>
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So what has been going on? Two major things, really, that come to a head tomorrow. Firstly, Jeff is still unemployed after being laid off from his teaching job back in June. We've been making it work, but it has obviously been a goal to get him back into the working world. On a random stroke of luck, I ran into a recruiter for Target while at work one day. I talked to her about Jeff and his experience and she gave me her card. I passed on the info to him and he applied. After a on site interview and a phone interview, tomorrow is his final interview for a leadership position at a local store. A salaried management position that could get us back on track. A position he would enjoy doing, be able to pour himself into, but then leave at work when he comes home. We need this so badly for so many reasons; namely his sanity and confidence, but I'd be lying if I didn't say it was financial as well. </div>
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Who knows how long after the interview he'll hear anything. All I know is that tomorrow at 4PM is make it or break it time for this opportunity and I'm pulling for "make it" with everything I have. </div>
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Now the other thing. It's more complicated and I'm still not sure how to wrap my head around it. Charlie. Charlie, my sweet, brilliant, quiet, quirky boy. When Charlie started preschool a few months ago, we were approached by his teacher a few weeks in. She had....concerns. Not "earth shattering, stop the presses" concerns, as she said, but rather, "keep an eye out" concerns. Alright... </div>
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Jeff and I have always wondered if Charlie was brilliant, different, quirky, or all of the above. It's not that we aimed to label him, but as educators and generally worried preemie parents, his development is on our minds quite often. When Charlie learned his alphabet, upper and lower case, at 22 months from a talking toy, we were proud. When he learned the letter's phonetic sounds by 26 months from the same toy, we were impressed. When he started spontaneously writing letters and spelling his name, we were pretty shocked. He's always been this way. He picks things up with very few exposures and blows us away with the things he knows. When he began to forego pretend play and toys that didn't have to do with letters, numbers, etc., we were confused.</div>
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When his teacher said she was concerned, I knew exactly what she was concerned about. He lacks imagination, struggles to carry on conversations with peers and adults, doesn't ask or answer "why" questions, still engages in parallel play, at best, and often plays with toys incorrectly (spells letters with train tracks or sorts play food by color, for instance). His peers get frustrated with him because he swats at them for disrupting his organization or when he talks about letters and numbers instead of playing... There's so much more that I can't even put into words at this point. Lately, he's gotten a little better. We encourage pretend play quite a bit at home, but most of the time he just doesn't seem to get it. </div>
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People tell me not to worry because he's smart. Yes, he is smart, but there is more to development than "being smart." Is he gifted? Maybe. Could he be bored with such little kid play? Maybe. What of this is normal 4 year old stubbornness? What is normal Charlie? What should we be concerned about, if anything?</div>
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Tomorrow at 1PM, Charlie has an evaluation with the Early Intervention program. We've gone this route before for a gross motor delay when he was younger, but not for something like this. I don't know what to expect, I don't know what will happen. My brain and my heart are so tired of worrying. I'm not afraid of a label and I'm not seeking a diagnosis. I would, however, like to know if there are areas he needs to focus on and if there are things we could be doing for or with Charlie to help.</div>
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Tomorrow is a big day and the worst part of it is that after it's all done, we won't know much more than we do right now. Once it's done, we'll be waiting. Waiting for a phone call, the next step, next appointment. Only time will tell. </div>
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MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-9294606628896657442014-11-29T07:36:00.000-05:002014-11-29T07:36:00.239-05:00Tis the Pinterest SeasonThat day you go into the store and the Christmas decorations are out (you know, around October), you begin thinking about the impending holiday season and all it brings....your to do list. Decorate the house, put up the tree, find matching outfits for kids, send approximately 8,564 cards, the ever growing list of gifts to hunt down, and don't forget about the holiday themed festivities at daycare, school, work, Mom's group...<br />
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Holiday prep is fun and I genuinely enjoy spreading the love, but over the years I've noticed myself turning my focus further and further from my family and my home; gifts to buy, things to do, people to see, places to be. With an addition of Pinterest inspired desserts, gifts, and projects to the already crushing layer of Christmas cheer, I feel like the expectations (whether real or imagined) are more overwhelming than ever. This year, I'm taking a step back and changing my focus using the culprit of holiday pressure itself; Pinterest.<br />
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Why Pinterest? Why not. It's already a tremendous collection of creative ideas ranging from hand print art to stunning ornaments that cannot possibly be made by a normal person. Why not take advantage of it. Plus, this way we can share.<br />
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<a data-pin-board-width="400" data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-scale-height="200" data-pin-scale-width="80" href="http://www.pinterest.com/AllFourLoveBlog/advent-calendar/">Follow Jen (All Four Love)'s board Advent Calendar on Pinterest.</a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script></center>
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<a data-pin-board-width="400" data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-scale-height="200" data-pin-scale-width="80" href="http://www.pinterest.com/AllFourLoveBlog/the-12-dates-of-christmas/">Follow Jen (All Four Love)'s board The 12 Dates of Christmas on Pinterest.</a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script></center>
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We aren't doing fancy Christmas portraits or matching holiday outfits. I'm not going to obsess over menus for Christmas breakfast and dinner. If holiday socials don't fit into our family schedule, I'm not going to stress about it. Now, don't get me wrong; this isn't about locking my family in the house and ignoring everyone for a month. This December is, however, going to be about us and sharing the things we love with those we love.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjBZJgcqZW3_jf2fgn_pMDkGmWXkQAUMgs7Skb_zOkFbLrpM_Nwc_6UOwaLLBzD04kwP3uCPzrKcZYxiEHNKquye72R8YjocXzuxTYMuPiIZeFroz7G3MFhbaJsD7slr1S-Kp_o1njnGy/s1600/778796_10100113881018828_1564831132_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjBZJgcqZW3_jf2fgn_pMDkGmWXkQAUMgs7Skb_zOkFbLrpM_Nwc_6UOwaLLBzD04kwP3uCPzrKcZYxiEHNKquye72R8YjocXzuxTYMuPiIZeFroz7G3MFhbaJsD7slr1S-Kp_o1njnGy/s400/778796_10100113881018828_1564831132_o.jpg" width="266" /></a>A few weeks ago, I started two Pinterest boards; Our Family Advent Calendar and the 12 Dates of Christmas. One for our family and one for Jeff and I as a couple. As a family, we've been scouring Pinterest and our imagination, adding activities to these boards; activities we're excited to do together as a family or as a couple. There's no order, no requirements; just 24 activities (and 12 dates) that we hope to enjoy as we countdown to Christmas, together.<br />
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The activities aren't rocket science and don't require a BA in Fine Arts or a culinary degree to accomplish. It's simple things like baking cookies for a neighbor, bringing Great Grandpa holiday decorations for his retirement home, watching a holiday movie together, or having a camp out in the living room around the lit tree. It sounds simple because it IS simple, but it's things that I, admittedly, haven't made time for in past years. As the kids get older I want them to look back on the holiday season with memories of love, kindness, family, and fun.<br />
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I'm hoping our new Advent calendar sparks tradition for years to come, but if not, that's okay too. We'll try something else, pick new activities. Maybe that will be our tradition. Regardless of what works for us, the important part is that it works for us and doesn't become a season of stress and rushing.<br />
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That is my wish for you out there. Drink hot cocoa before bed, make more popcorn and Froot Loop garland than is logically necessary, watch cheesy movies, and keep your lap warm with little ones in Christmas PJs. May you have a holiday season full of love, kindness, family, and fun.MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-47374093017828090692014-11-28T08:57:00.000-05:002015-05-09T16:28:20.860-04:00Fitness Friday: Annapolis Classic Recap & New FootwearNo, not new running shoes, unfortunately. This.<br />
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But we'll get to that. First, the race that got me here.<br />
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Way back five years ago, I married this guy. Don't we look so young and well rested?<br />
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For our 5th wedding anniversary I knew that we didn't need more "stuff," so instead I bought us registration for the Annapolis Classic Half Marathon. He's always wanted to run a half, I am practically addicted to race bling at this point, and Annapolis is the place we were married. Brilliant, right? Though our anniversary was Halloween, the race wasn't until November 22nd. Plenty of time to get a sitter, find somewhere to stay, and finish getting trained up.<br />
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One thing I didn't think about was the weather. End of November on the waterfront is COLD. I am entirely too non-committal to dress myself properly for running in these kind of temperatures. Do I wear this? Or this? Too much? Too little? It's enough to make me crazy. I settled on my new Under Armour Infrared hoodie and hat, Under Armour cold gear tights, and this sweet Bay Six shirt I got at the Diva's expo back in September. Finished off with Feetures socks and my good ol' Brooks, I was ready to roll.<br />
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When we arrived on Saturday morning, it wasn't nearly as crowded as we though it would be - there was a ton of signage, friendly volunteers, and parking was a breeze. Easy races are my favorite!<br />
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Here we are, bundled up at the starting line ready for 13.1 miles of freezing our butts off!<br />
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Truth be told, the weather didn't turn out to be too much of an issue. Our layers were good and kept us at the right temperature, especially once the sun came up into the cloudless sky. The sub-freezing temps did affect, however, the water stations. Carelessly tossed water + freezing temperatures = ice. Runners + ice = bad. I'm so grateful that I didn't fall, because normally I would have been one of the first ones to bite it. A huge thanks to the volunteers for trying their hardest to keep the ice melted! Not a fun job, but greatly appreciated.<br />
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Then there was the scenery; Annapolis. This was the reason I wanted to do this race. Annapolis is such a gorgeous city. The water, the boats, the bridges, and shops. Absolutely gorgeous. Part of the race took us down Main Street and across the water front, then over a few bridges.<br />
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Though we stopped for one pee break, we clocked in at just over 2 1/2 hours. I appreciate that Jeff stayed with me without complaint despite being a faster runner. Towards the end, he thanked me for pacing him and keeping him grounded; he realized that he probably would have blazed out in the beginning and been wrecked by the end. Ah, the run/walk method claims another supporter.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfjhBDKi8bO7GeizypsJhG_UKx44resaDm__zS_zamgsNq9mjEVwbe7kRzK0PGa13rpKj0_lRQ8oMsmaap0Y4CrvyNWKU41sYZp2EeuYGq6FnO_t7Xk5Gr5gzDbunS0wYvek54NnCqnwtu/s1600/10704308_10100292728951138_2687711519335946612_o-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfjhBDKi8bO7GeizypsJhG_UKx44resaDm__zS_zamgsNq9mjEVwbe7kRzK0PGa13rpKj0_lRQ8oMsmaap0Y4CrvyNWKU41sYZp2EeuYGq6FnO_t7Xk5Gr5gzDbunS0wYvek54NnCqnwtu/s1600/10704308_10100292728951138_2687711519335946612_o-2.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After our 13.1 mile date.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I even got jewelry out of the deal.</td></tr>
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Thank you Annapolis Running Classic for a gorgeous race and sweet medal! We'll be back next year!<br />
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Onto the boot...<br />
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Most of Saturday I felt fine; the typical just ran 13.1 miles fatigue. The race was uneventful, pain wise. By Sunday morning, however, my left foot hurt something awful when I walked. Not when I stood, just when I walked. I stretched, I rubbed, I took meds - nothing helped. The first few steps didn't hurt, but as I kept walking it got to the point where I'd limp. Monday was awful at work, hobbling around the office to and from meetings. Tuesday morning I went to the doctor and Tuesday afternoon I was in x-ray. Though nothing definitive showed up on the x-ray, my doctor is fairly confident based on my symptoms that I have a 5th metatarsal stress fracture. Whomp whomp whomp.<br />
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The good news is that with the boot I can walk on it and it doesn't hurt. The bad news is that I'm out of running for at least three weeks. The other good news is that apparently this kind of injury heals quickly without much issue. I'm bummed that I can't run, but let's be honest, I wasn't exactly planning on doing a ton between Thanksgiving and Christmas anyway. I guess this is a good time as any to chill out.<br />
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So what is to become of Fitness Friday in the meantime? I've got a "Runner's Wish List" next week, my spring race list coming together (hopefully), as well as a cool review of the Hipster Running Dog Leash, courtesy of my still able bodied hubby. With our hot mess of a dog, this will be a fun one folks!<br />
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Stay warm out there, runners!<br />
<br />MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-46861316208640402902014-11-26T22:39:00.000-05:002014-12-01T21:07:51.776-05:00Wish List Wednesday: SmartMax House with Car<div style="text-align: center;">
**This week's Wish List Wednesday is sponsored by SmartMax. I received a sample for review purposes at no cost to myself, but as always, all opinions are my own and I only review products my family uses and loves.**</div>
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Growing up, I was a little science nerd. I wanted to know how everything worked and often did "experiments" to test out whatever rhyme or reason I was curious about. Already at 4, I see the same qualities in Charlie, Mr. Curious Tinker. When I was introduced to <a href="http://www.smartmax.eu/us" rel="nofollow">SmartMax</a>, I figured it would be a fun building toy for him to try out, but it turned out to be so much more than that!<br />
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SmartMax Magnetic Discovery sets are a series of plastic and metal bars, shapes, and balls with high quality magnets in them. They stick together to create not only fun shapes, letters, vehicles, and contraptions, but they are a creative way to teach kids about magnetism and structure.<br />
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For this review, we received the <a href="http://www.smartmax.eu/us/smartmax/house-car" rel="nofollow">SmartMax House with Car</a> set. This set, which includes a total of 22 pieces, builds a house and a small (adorable) car. Now, Charlie has obviously encountered magnets before, but not a magnetic building toy. It definitely surprised him when he dumped out the box and all of the pieces flew together into a pile!<br />
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Together, we built the house and the car, then a few letters, a microphone, several shapes, a castle; he was getting the hang of what connected to what. But why? He was intrigued. He's not a kid to "ask" why, but I know he's thinking it, so we did some experiments. Does this bar connect to this one? What about here? Why don't the balls connect to each other? Though he doesn't understand the science behind magnetism, in simple enough terms, he understood that magnets stick to each other and to metal, but that metal doesn't stick to metal and nothing sticks to plastic.<br />
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During our "experiments," Charlie and I discovered that some of the bars connect to each other and some push away (magnetism and repulsion), but all of them connect to the metal balls. We also learned that the longer bar can pick up much more weight than the medium size bars. Charlie had a blast running around the house playing "what else is magnetic?" He found out that our car keys, pots and pans, the fridge and dishwasher, door knob, the laundry rack, and the dog's license tag were all magnetic. Thank goodness we have a patient dog.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6befNTg3-MtjdpCxfYDQdTkx-qA6IW3Z232YpoIsBd-bHDDLzm6f4qKFcCEIfbPBp7LapADIPpqoFgDr3JRI-pjOvbFBjsuBebIZyh4_1W9i3vF072lPbIDXNM28CpkLEHakW44xkXZn-/s1600/_MG_2267+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6befNTg3-MtjdpCxfYDQdTkx-qA6IW3Z232YpoIsBd-bHDDLzm6f4qKFcCEIfbPBp7LapADIPpqoFgDr3JRI-pjOvbFBjsuBebIZyh4_1W9i3vF072lPbIDXNM28CpkLEHakW44xkXZn-/s1600/_MG_2267+copy.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, Charlie, the pots are metal. Can I made dinner now? </td></tr>
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Though we've categorized almost everything in the house as metal and non-metal, he's still thoroughly enjoying experimenting and building with this SmartMax set. I am hoping to buy him more pieces for Christmas to add to his collection! I've been eyeing up the <a href="http://www.smartmax.eu/us/smartmax/mega-ball-run" rel="nofollow">Mega Ball Run</a>. Seriously, tell me that doesn't look awesome.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj6HTSdPAaUiZxjJXldDmo0MoqYMjvLbtsv31i0kpPyrUhA1hZWl8twUkecMpRdhidNu-50dd3FxbQD_y29vJSQB6COL4Bex0J6zY6PcnyG002zIJW11THOTIgLUj_wr0B9x_yBlLx88Le/s1600/_MG_2266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj6HTSdPAaUiZxjJXldDmo0MoqYMjvLbtsv31i0kpPyrUhA1hZWl8twUkecMpRdhidNu-50dd3FxbQD_y29vJSQB6COL4Bex0J6zY6PcnyG002zIJW11THOTIgLUj_wr0B9x_yBlLx88Le/s1600/_MG_2266.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No need to worry about Ginny getting a hold of tiny pieces.</td></tr>
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<i>Things we love about SmartMax Magnetic Discovery...</i><br />
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<ul>
<li>Large, chunky pieces that are safe for toddlers and great for little hands. </li>
<li>Encourages an understanding of magnetism and repulsion. </li>
<li>Teaches concepts of architectural structure as kids try different methods of building towers, bridges, and more. </li>
<li>Bright, gender neutral colors. </li>
<li>All sets work together. </li>
<li>No tiny pieces, nothing comes apart. <a href="http://www.smartmax.eu/us/safety" rel="nofollow">Read more about their safety here!</a></li>
<li>Project ideas span from young toddlers to school age children. </li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9XaiU7iVU4Fq5lGNVKlwWgLAPiNVWZMEnxo0XGbEgzjrwdcMmsvsDNZ-4BBBxHvdBH835RjMJaA8sGvyCzhgMUzpGvz2tWJ5q5jpt9jz1e4Tv2sq1y6XRBDylj9G8EcNK3mhalpZRDiYE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-12-01+at+8.49.44+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9XaiU7iVU4Fq5lGNVKlwWgLAPiNVWZMEnxo0XGbEgzjrwdcMmsvsDNZ-4BBBxHvdBH835RjMJaA8sGvyCzhgMUzpGvz2tWJ5q5jpt9jz1e4Tv2sq1y6XRBDylj9G8EcNK3mhalpZRDiYE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-12-01+at+8.49.44+PM.png" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of the SmartMax website.</td></tr>
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With <a href="http://www.smartmax.eu/us/smartmax" rel="nofollow">over 40 different building sets</a> available, SmartMax has more than the House with Car set. Check out all SmartMax has to offer on their website and social media outlets. I've already seen some deals for SmartMax around the internet, so keep your eye out! I think this is going to be a big one this holiday season!</div>
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<a href="http://www.smartmax.eu/us" rel="nofollow">Website</a> | <a href="http://www.facebook.com/SmartMaxSocial">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Smartmax_USA" rel="nofollow">Twitter</a></div>
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MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-34648526197963434062014-11-23T10:37:00.000-05:002014-12-01T21:12:07.317-05:00Stocking Stuffer Sunday: SmartGames IQ Twist<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">**This post is sponsored by SmartGames. I received a sample product, at no cost, for the purpose of this review. Have no fear! All opinions are genuine and I only write about products my family uses and loves.**</span></div>
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I don't know what it is about stocking stuffers, but I have the hardest time finding things that aren't just random, meaningless filler (or candy, which we are still eating from Halloween...) My goal this year is to find cool items for stocking stuffers that go beyond the norm and actually serve as gifts you'll be happy to stuff those stockings with.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHgozbPygWr2_KA65vaLi1FR4yYF4bK1hnveiCOJbu_eBS04M6GWc2ykENaP0P6KUbQ2IkNrSkXnUv0uyfAOh499uMAkYmq03zbpX-mQSq3J_lyBUZYbf9I9wHmFXsmJsBy3vXVFBdD_h/s1600/IMG_2079+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHgozbPygWr2_KA65vaLi1FR4yYF4bK1hnveiCOJbu_eBS04M6GWc2ykENaP0P6KUbQ2IkNrSkXnUv0uyfAOh499uMAkYmq03zbpX-mQSq3J_lyBUZYbf9I9wHmFXsmJsBy3vXVFBdD_h/s1600/IMG_2079+copy.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
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First on the list is my new favorite travel game - IQ Twist by SmartGames. Growing up, my sister and I absolutely loved puzzle games. She was much, much better at them than I was, but regardless, we would sit for hours working on them. When SmartGames sent me IQ Twist to try, no lie, my sister stole it and it was missing for like 3 weeks. When I finally got it back, I tried it for myself and is this thing hard! Not hard like NY Times Crossword hard, but like fun, addicting, keep my brain busy hard. No batteries, no screen - just a good old fashion logic puzzle....with a twist.<br />
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Here's the scoop. In this innocent looking travel case is a challenge book, 7 colored pegs, and 8 colored twisty pieces. They look all cute and colorful, until you need to reconfigure them back into the case in particular order!<br />
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The challenges range; Starter, Junior, Expert, Master, and Wizard. While I am still somewhere in the expert range, my sister has conquered all of them (and reminds me of this regularly). This is an example of the 1st puzzle in the "Starter" category. Line up your pegs and pieces as the diagram shows, then give it your best shot.<br />
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All of the twists fit back on the board, but only the matching colored twists can go over a colored peg. No yellow twist on a red peg! I promise, all of them have solutions....and for you cheaters out there, those solutions are in the back of the book.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJs86_TbtKt47z932ZvhPyYPWZSPxEkVaruDjCprtWhp2DNTPLBB_Ee9_3pQd5kEiDFQnE7xHpOnqe3KDIyK-7JalT2fIlK-wHChvHB_f_Oc-iJ0XVnWrM6gHvbmlJ1QjNX_7lqbfpkM3m/s1600/IMG_2086+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJs86_TbtKt47z932ZvhPyYPWZSPxEkVaruDjCprtWhp2DNTPLBB_Ee9_3pQd5kEiDFQnE7xHpOnqe3KDIyK-7JalT2fIlK-wHChvHB_f_Oc-iJ0XVnWrM6gHvbmlJ1QjNX_7lqbfpkM3m/s1600/IMG_2086+copy.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Voila! This is what level one looks like completed. Now that you have the answer, you'll just have to try out the other 119 puzzles for yourself!<br />
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Small enough to throw in your purse or diaper bag this little game is perfect for travel, waiting rooms, or when your kids fall asleep in the car and you'd rather sit in the driveway for an hour than wake them up. Don't lie, you've done it too.<br />
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Now that I have it back, it's been living in my purse. It came in handy this weekend as we drove to and from the race. Jeff played with it on the way there and I played with it on the way back. Good thing we're not the competitive types or else that could have gotten ugly...... ;-)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-MDwXkP-uHUMlHMyw14F5FJQZhKf0KAdENuTouyYy1RWI5tKsk3E19abTJjQKuVaql53ZUR3uEOjW-27ZIUIdi7t-oveqhPQo3fuhnzZv5MMPSbnqr56nOv87112aLzO-eZkKwM5yMWG/s1600/IMG_2090+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-MDwXkP-uHUMlHMyw14F5FJQZhKf0KAdENuTouyYy1RWI5tKsk3E19abTJjQKuVaql53ZUR3uEOjW-27ZIUIdi7t-oveqhPQo3fuhnzZv5MMPSbnqr56nOv87112aLzO-eZkKwM5yMWG/s1600/IMG_2090+copy.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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Know someone who would love IQ Twist? Available from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004TGVNHA/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004TGVNHA&linkCode=as2&tag=homforthr-20&linkId=TBIDC57T6YX75XIA" rel="nofollow">Amazon</a> and the <a href="http://www.smartgames.eu/" rel="nofollow">SmartGames</a> website, you can stuff their stocking with this torturously addicting puzzle game for about $10.<br />
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SmartGames has much more than just IQ Twist. Check out their social media outlets and website for loads of information and amazing toys and gifts for children and adults.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SmartGamesSocial" rel="nofollow">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/SmartGames_USA" rel="nofollow">Twitter</a> | <a href="http://www.smartgames.eu/" rel="nofollow">Website</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D198911262360752004%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F4.bp.blogspot.com%252F-c67BSIZG6ic%252FVHPpEB5uLII%252FAAAAAAAAFbs%252FfdahQSGnVI0%252Fs1600%252FIMG_2084%25252Bcopy.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1102px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D198911262360752004%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F4.bp.blogspot.com%252F-c67BSIZG6ic%252FVHPpEB5uLII%252FAAAAAAAAFbs%252FfdahQSGnVI0%252Fs1600%252FIMG_2084%25252Bcopy.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1102px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-18836874717697472882014-11-09T06:31:00.000-05:002014-11-09T06:31:00.280-05:00Bye Bye Mommy!Standing in my living room the other day, Ginny walked up to me with my keys. She handed them to me and said, "Bye bye, Mommy!" She thought I was leaving. In reality, I had gotten home about an hour earlier and was only getting up to help Charlie with something, not leave. She had a point though; I haven't been home much lately. Late meetings, late events, weekends traveling for work or something going on. It needs to be done, but the guilt. Oh, the guilt!<br />
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I'm away right now actually, at a conference for work. Jeff can't get FaceTime to work, so I'm left with a text letting me know that the kids have been asking for me all day. Crushed.<br />
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It comes and goes, the guilt. The guilt, knowing that I love my job and the people I work with and would do anything if it meant their success.....balanced with the fact that I should probably be home once in a freaking while to put my kids to bed, help with dinner, or play outside before it gets dark. As the busy times at work come and go, proportionally, so does the amount of time I am at home (and the time I have to blog - sorry, friends). I've been doing what I'm doing for several years now and the ebb and flow of chaos isn't new to me. I don't know what it is, but the past few months have been rougher than the typical schedule predicted. Maybe it's stress about Jeff's job search, maybe it's stress about Charlie's still mysterious immune system problem, maybe it's 100 other things. Maybe it's that every time I come home, the kids run to me screaming my name like it's been a year since they've seen me. Maybe it's how they cry and ask why I'm "leaving again" when I eat a quick dinner then head back out to a meeting.<br />
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I've read enough HuffPo Parenting articles to know that it's not the end of the world, my kids still love me, and that I'm not the only working parent out there who deals with this. I also recognize that at least I get to GO home in between (hey all you deployed military parents out there doing the real hard work). It still sucks. Not the most poetic word to describe it, but it's the best one I can muster at the moment. It sucks. I feel guilty when I'm at work, I feel guilty when I'm at home. I want to be in two places at once, fulfilling two identities; two pieces of myself.<br />
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I keep waiting for the magical time when I have it all figured out, but I know it's not as easy as that. It is what it is and I just need to make the best of it. For now, I'm bringing home a big stuffed (Finding) Nemo that I got from the conference as a peace offering to my children. They'll love it, hug me, and life will go on. We'll play all day, then Monday I'm back to work. It's getting to the time of year where things will slow down for a while, meaning fewer events and more time at home. They don't care either way - they're happy for the time we have together, miss me when I'm gone, and celebrate when I return. I just wish I could keep things that simple. It's amazing how wise even the littlest ones are about life and how to live it.<br />
<br />MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-21601536133452801202014-11-08T14:46:00.000-05:002014-11-08T16:33:31.341-05:00VTech Learning Toys Review & Giveaway!<div style="text-align: center;">
**This post is sponsored by VTech. We received these fun toys to play with and try out at no cost to us. Even though the toys were free, all opinions are my own and I don't write about products that we don't love and wouldn't use ourself. Enjoy!**</div>
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My little review team and I had so much fun reviewing the VTech Go! Go! Smart Animals Forest play set that we're back for more VTech fun. Just in time for holiday wish list season, VTech sent us an incredible set of four learning toys; The Chomp and Count Dino, Sit-to-Stand Smart Cruiser, Smart Shots Sports Center, and the Grow-Along Music Center. </div>
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When the box arrived, the kids knew there had to be something good inside and it took quite a bit of bribing just to get a picture before we tore into the boxes!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Chomp and Count Dino</span></b><br />
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Assembly: None<br />
Batteries: 2 AA<br />
Age Range: 12-36 months<br />
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The <a href="http://www.vtechkids.com/product/detail/15465/Chomp_and_Count_Dino" rel="nofollow">Chomp and Count Dino</a> is a classic pull along toy with a twist. Press the red button on the dino's head and he'll tell you that's he's hungry and it's time to eat! There are eight colored coins, each with a food on it. The dinosaur can actually distinguish between the coins, which reinforces color and food recognition. In addition to the coins, there are six bright buttons to press and a wheel to spin for songs and activities.<br />
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Though the recommended age range is 12-36 month, Charlie still enjoys the food/color recognition games at 4 years old. Ginny is right in the middle of the age range and is all about it. She jabbers on to the dino as he sings and asks for certain coins.<br />
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<i>Things we love about the Chomp and Count Dino...</i><br />
<ul>
<li>Recognizes coins by food and color for recognition reinforcement</li>
<li>Pull along string</li>
<li>Multiple settings for different modes of play</li>
<li>Over 100 songs to sing along</li>
<li>Bright, chunky pieces for little hands</li>
<li>All pieces store inside the dino for easy clean up</li>
<li>Helps develop fine motor skills</li>
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You can purchase the Chomp and Count Dino on the <a href="http://www.vtechkids.com/" rel="nofollow">VTech website</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00K89KFX0/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00K89KFX0&linkCode=as2&tag=homforthr-20&linkId=OPWBDSDBQ5WZDEZX" rel="nofollow">Amazon</a>. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Sit-to-Stand Smart Cruiser</span></b><br />
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Assembly: It takes about 15 minutes and requires a screwdriver<br />
Weight Limit: 42 pounds<br />
Batteries: 2 AA<br />
Age Range: 6 - 36 months<br />
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We've had our fair share of ride on toys come and go, but the <a href="http://www.vtechkids.com/product/detail/15463/Sit_to_Stand_Smart_Cruiser" rel="nofollow">Sit-to-Stand Smart Cruiser</a> is my favorite by far. It's a compact little cruiser that has the classic features of a sitting scooter, with the learning technology that VTech is known for. The wheel has a steering action, a shifter, left and right signals, and of course a horn. With three play modes for alphabet, music, and animals, there are a lot of activities, lights, and sounds to learn and entertain.<br />
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I'm proud to say that Ginny has mastered the forward scoot after many, many (many) frustrated backwards attempts to go forward. The best part is that she yells "scoot, scoot, scoot!" while she does it.<br />
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<i> Things we love about the Sit-to-Stand Smart Cruiser...</i><br />
<ul>
<li>Removable steering wheel activity for on the go or younger, sitting babies</li>
<li>Lots of interactive buttons, levers, and lights</li>
<li>Dozens of songs to sing along</li>
<li>Multiple modes of play</li>
<li>Easy to get on and off for little legs</li>
<li>Compartment under the seat for hiding Mommy's keys (wait...what?)</li>
<li>Bright, friendly, gender neutral colors</li>
</ul>
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You can purchase the Sit-to-Stand Smart Cruiser from the <a href="http://www.vtechkids.com/" rel="nofollow">VTech website</a> or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00K89KBIE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00K89KBIE&linkCode=as2&tag=homforthr-20&linkId=FES2AT4BKU5X52ER" rel="nofollow">Amazon</a>. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Um, pardon me, you're in the way of my scooting...</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Smart Shots Sports Center</span></b><br />
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Assembly: It takes about 15 minutes and requires a screwdriver<br />
Batteries: 3 AA<br />
Age Range: 12 - 36 months<br />
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No ball in the house! Alight, alright....you can play ball in the house. The Smart Shots Sports Center may be Ginny's favorite VTech toy at the moment. The songs and sounds cheering her on as she kicks, dunks, and scores points get belly laughs every single time. While it takes up a little more room than some of our other toys, the kids can play with it together and it has genuinely encouraged and taught Ginny how to throw overhand and kick a ball forward.<br />
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<i>Things we love about the Smart Shots Sports Center...</i><br />
<ul>
<li>Sensors recognize when you score a goal and count accordingly</li>
<li>Gender neutral - girls can be sports stars too!</li>
<li>Storage for balls on the legs of the </li>
<li>Auto turn off and volume control</li>
<li>Fun actions, sounds, and light up score board</li>
<li>Encourages gross and fine motor skill development</li>
</ul>
<div>
You can purchase the Smart Shots Sports Center from the <a href="http://www.vtechkids.com/" rel="nofollow">VTech website</a> or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KG3WYI2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00KG3WYI2&linkCode=as2&tag=homforthr-20&linkId=PDVJGBGCVJGLH5LR" rel="nofollow">Amazon</a>. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Grow-Along Music Center</b></span><br />
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Assembly: It took about 5 minutes and required a screwdriver<br />
Batteries: 3 AA<br />
Age Range: 12 - 36 months<br />
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Music is huge in our house and no flat surface or hollow tube is safe from becoming a drum of or a flute. The <a href="http://www.vtechkids.com/product/detail/15817/Grow_Along_Music_Center" rel="nofollow">Grow-Along Music Center</a> fits right in amongst the parade of instruments. With an adjustable stand and the ability to be taken off and carried with it's handle, this is a versatile toy in both use and age range.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is it a microphone or a telescope?</td></tr>
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<i>Things we love about the Grow-Along Music Center...</i><br />
<ul>
<li>Height adjustable</li>
<li>Top comes off for on the go or sitting babies</li>
<li>Microphone really works!</li>
<li>Lots of sounds and songs</li>
<li>Flashing lights and instrument buttons</li>
</ul>
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We really enjoy VTech toys; the quality and intentional development that goes into each design is obvious. As a parent of a past Early Intervention kid, I really appreciate that the each toy has the developmental benefits and goals listed right on the box. This let's parents and care givers know how the child can grow and develop by way of this toy. From letters and numbers to fine motor and social skills, it makes shopping for specific needs much easier.<br />
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And it may sound minor, but this seriously impressed me. Have you ever seen screws packaged like this? Now I know how many screws to expect and will KNOW there aren't any floating around as toddler choking hazards. Brilliant, VTech. Brilliant.<br />
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<i>Here are the other overall things we love about VTech products...</i></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Easy to put together with clear instructions</li>
<li>Few, if any, stickers to apply</li>
<li>Volume controls and on/off buttons (or auto off functions) to save batteries</li>
<li>Take up little room and have multiple uses</li>
<li>Multiple play modes on each toy (letters, shapes, foods, counting, etc.)</li>
<li>Most toys come with batteries.</li>
<li>The manuals include a song list and lyrics so you can sing along!</li>
</ul>
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<br />
Would you like to win ALL FOUR of these toys? (See what I did there?) Well you can by entering below! VTech was gracious enough to promise a prize pack, containing all four of the toys reviewed here, to one lucky All Four Love reader.<br />
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/8bc0aaf115/" id="rc-8bc0aaf115" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="//widget.rafflecopter.com/load.js"></script></div>
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Don't forget to check out VTech's social media outlets for product info and more fun stuff. Thank you VTech for sponsoring this fun review!</div>
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MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-69336416097981649052014-11-04T07:58:00.000-05:002014-11-05T17:37:50.713-05:00Wubble Bubble Ball Review<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">**This post is sponsored by Wubble Bubble Ball. We were provided a Wubble </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">to kick, punch, pull, squish, and squash, free of charge. </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">All opinions are my own and I don't review products I wouldn't use myself!**</span></div>
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On the list of "where was this when I was a kid" is the Wubble Bubble Ball. I'm sure you've seen this thing on TV and wondered the same thing we did - can it actually get beat up like that and not pop? Charlie and Ginny put it to the test!<br />
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The Wubble Bubble Ball was invented by NSI President Frank Landi when his children wished they could play with a bubble without it popping. Made from a secret super stretchy plastic, the Wubble is just that - it looks like a bubble, it moves like a bubble, is incredibly lightweight, but it doesn't pop like a bubble!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRveVq9BaVwOPIszprBnqeYfV_cZthyphenhyphenRtPos64d5t2CYvKtPy_fPHxlj-ViEJ1lK3mzZmMGN9DdRQHrOM_feb7cN_rQSfcRodjXFSzJqUSnmTzGqV9gTJP0O96gQBekzzPodR3lCLT5-r/s1600/IMG_1627+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRveVq9BaVwOPIszprBnqeYfV_cZthyphenhyphenRtPos64d5t2CYvKtPy_fPHxlj-ViEJ1lK3mzZmMGN9DdRQHrOM_feb7cN_rQSfcRodjXFSzJqUSnmTzGqV9gTJP0O96gQBekzzPodR3lCLT5-r/s1600/IMG_1627+copy.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a>When we received the Wubble in the mail, it came in a neat little box with a battery operated pump, inflation guide, mail away replacement kit, and instruction booklet. My favorite part? No nasty plastic smell! After I gave "jobs" to my "helpers," it took about 5 minutes to inflate the Wubble and get it set up. The instructions were fairly clear as far as instructions go, but if you have trouble inflating it, you can always check out this handy <a href="http://wubbleball.com/howtoinflate?m=11267488" rel="nofollow">tutorial video</a>. The Wubble can be inflated up to 3 feet tall (!!!), but I kept it around 30" so it wasn't towering over Ginny.<br />
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The smaller the Wubble is, the stronger it is (since it's stretched less) - something I hoped would protect it against my less than gentle children who were begging me to bring it outside to play.<br />
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Outside we went! What fun this thing is!! The Wubble is so different than any other ball or toy we've played with. You can literally grab a handful of it and chuck it in the air or at the floor to bounce it. The noises it makes when you hit it, kick it, or bounce it are hilarious and incited many, many giggles.<br />
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My two love to whack the Wubble with their hands, making it vibrate and ring out a whacky hollow sound. And as long as you keep an eye out for sharp things, you're good to go - no need to worry about it popping. Since it's light, even Ginny can lift it up and throw it or kick it, which she loves.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We're not the only ones who have enjoyed the Wubble Bubble. Target selected the Wubble Bubble Ball as a 2014 Top Toy for the Holiday Season. It was listed among other popular toys and games that are sure to be on every holiday wish list (read: if you see it on the shelf, grab it before it's gone!) The Wubble Bubble Ball is also a Family Fun Toy of the Year Award winner. The 25 winners are featured in the November 2014 issue of Family Fun Magazine. The Wubble has also won numerous toy awards, including an Oppenheim Toy </span>Portfolio<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Best Toy Award, a National Parenting Center Seal of Approval, a Mr. Dad Approved Award, a Parent's Choice Award, the Dr. Toy Best 100 Picks Award, and more!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">For both inside and outside play, I'd have to agree - this is going to be one hot toy this holiday season. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">The Wubble Bubble Ball is available at </span><a href="http://www.target.com/s?searchTerm=wubble+bubble+ball&category=0%7CAll%7Cmatchallpartial%7Call+categories&lnk=snav_ta_wubble+bubble+ball" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out;" target="_blank">Target</a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">, </span><a href="http://www.toysrus.com/search/index.jsp?kwCatId=&kw=wubble%20bubble%20ball&keywords=wubble%20bubble%20ball&origkw=wubble+bubble+ball&sr=1" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out;" target="_blank">Toys R Us</a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">, </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LK1YMD4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00LK1YMD4&linkCode=as2&tag=homforthr-20&linkId=XHTCPFY3NCDVTEIU" rel="nofollow">Amazon</a>,<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;"> and on their </span><a href="http://www.wubbleball.com/?gclid=Cj0KEQiA7NyiBRCOhpuCm9Dq6b4BEiQA9D6qhamY0ARmTnJ5rZ48sXgc-aNPtqiYLelnowkCYLZaOqYaAhyp8P8HAQ" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out;" target="_blank">website</a>,<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;"> in both red and blue. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">The Wubble is tough, but nothing is indestructible. Luckily, </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">they have a </span><a href="http://elementassociates.us5.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=dbf46b578e436415b3bdaf476&id=4645fae3dc&e=ef7b512ac3" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out;" target="_blank">lifetime guarantee</a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">. If something happens to your Wubble, don't fear! You can get a replacement for $6.99 (cost for shipping/handling).</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px; text-align: center;">Check out the Wubble Bubble social media outlets for the latest news and product updates.</span></span></center>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/wubbleball" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out;" target="_blank">Facebook</a> |<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"> </span><a href="https://twitter.com/WubbleBall" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.1s ease-in-out;" target="_blank">Twitter </a></span></div>
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MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-198911262360752004.post-72474523066390599262014-11-03T11:17:00.000-05:002014-11-03T11:17:00.302-05:00Tasty Tuesday: Best Ever MeatloafI don't know about you, but I love a good meatloaf. This is one of those recipes that I'm not quite sure where I got it, but I've had it forever. It's simple, but it's a crowd pleaser!<br />
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<u>Ingredients:</u><br />
<ul>
<li>2/3 cup milk</li>
<li>2 eggs</li>
<li>3 slices of white bread</li>
<li>1/2 cup chopped onion</li>
<li>1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese</li>
<li>1 tsp salt</li>
<li>1/2 tsp black pepper</li>
<li>1 1/2 lbs ground beef </li>
</ul>
Topping:<br />
<ul>
<li>1/2 cup tomato sauce</li>
<li>1/2 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>1 tsp mustard</li>
</ul>
<u>Directions:</u><br />
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Beat eggs and milk. Tear bread into pieces and let sit in the egg/milk mixture until its soggy. Stir in chopped onion and shredded cheese. Add ground beef and mix until integrated.<br />
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Get in there with your hands. It's gross, but just part of the meatloaf experience. Shape it into a loaf.<br />
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Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes, combine topping and spoon over meatloaf. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, spooning topping over the meatloaf about halfway through.<br />
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<u>Notes:</u><br />
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It reheats well too, so if meatloaf sandwiches are your thing, this is your recipe! Sometimes we substitute the ground beef for ground turkey and it stays super moist and delicious, with less fat and calories. Enjoy!MommaMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07390188616320103255noreply@blogger.com0