SKATE ZONE COLUMBUS OHIO Summer Fun

Affordable Summer Fun for the entire Family

$1.00 Admission for Affordable Family Fun Night! 

Every Tuesday and Thursday beginning June 3rd!

6pm-8:30pm

My life, my goals.....

As I lay here, my mind just goes nonstop!  My mind reflects back to my life and all the life-changing events in it.  I stuck to my goals regardless of all the trials I experienced!  As a child, I wanted everything to be as close to perfect as possible.  I wanted my future and my future kids to be able to live a stress free childhood.  I set my goals when I was younger like 13 and I can remember every one of my goals too.  They may not mean much to someone else, but to actually say that succeeding all my past goals I set as a child is a rewarding feeling!

My goals were:

• Always have my own transportation (I don't have a clue how to take the bus)
• Finish high school
• No kids until I graduate from college
• Graduate from college
• All my kids to have the same father

In life, you set goals and go for it.  Once you reach them, you make new ones!  Some goals may not go as YOU may have planned, but that's okay!  It's not the end, get back up and keep going!  I have new goals in place, no time frame set at the moment...but I plan to attack them soon!  Many people somehow get the idea that stay at home mothers are lazy and lack the brains or education, that's so not true!  So many of us stay at home mothers have more drive than you may think.  We just may not boast about our successes to others, or have plaques hanging on our entrance walls of our house.

Don't allow yourself to envy others for their successes!  Get that "drive" and set your own goals and go for it!  If things don't go as planned, it's okay...you're not in total control of your life anyhow HE is.

 

Good luck my goal setters!!!

Making Time for Others....

You always will make time for whatever you really want to do.  So many times, I hear excuses from folk about as to why they didn't do something or they forgot.  The minute something comes up dealing with them, they want/expect you to jump. I can trust a stranger with my life faster than some of my friends/family.  Learn to make time for others, you never know when you'll need them in return.

"Don't burn bridges. You'll be surprised how many times you have to cross the same river."

Now You're Concerned About Your Child?

This school year is almost complete.  I've experienced a sense of accomplishment for my kiddies as well as myself.  As a stay at home mom, my job is my kids.  When they start to decline in school subjects, I do what I need to do to get them back on track.  My daughters teacher notified me that she was struggling one semester on her math, I took care of it.  She was in tutoring in 2 days after I was notified.  It was my job to identify that the help that I was giving her at home wasn't working.

In my opinion, there shouldn't be any excuse for your child to fail a grade level...especially being a stay at home mom.  Several people I've had conversations with this week are now showing concern because they've been notified that their child is being held back.  Where was the concern during the beginning of the year when their child's grades were low? Parents need to understand that teachers are teachers, not babysitters....THATS IT! It's your job as a parent to implement the tools from the teacher and get to work.  If this means tutoring and not allowing your child to play after school then that's what needs to be done.  Work comes before play is what I tell my kids, they understand.  All the things that I wanted to say to this person about her child being in the same grade next year is her fault.  She says, "I hate this school!"  No, you should hate yourself!  It's obvious that the child was struggling way before now.  It's not the teachers nor the schools fault for not buckling down, it's your fault!  Maybe next school year, she'll be more on top of her child's schoolwork.  If not, he'll back in the position next year as well!

Morning Brew.....

In times of hurt or pain, learn how to deal with it!  There's no medal for trying to deal with things alone.  If you need help, get some!  It didn't make you less of a person. Whether it's doctors, counseling or prayer, they're people with experience in dealing with the issues you may be experiencing.  Depression is real, and it can sneak up on you really fast. 

Different people have different symptoms. Some symptoms of depression include:

• Feeling sad or "empty"
• Feeling hopeless, irritable, anxious, or guilty
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Feeling very tired
• Not being able to concentrate or remember details
• Not being able to sleep, or sleeping too much
• Overeating, or not wanting to eat at all
• Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
• Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems.

Everyone deals with tragic things, it's how you deal with them that will determine what'll happen with you.  Having a good support system, talking about the situation & constant prayer is what helped myself through! 

Things I do Before Bedtime EVERY NIGHT!

1. Brush and floss my teeth (The thought of false teeth haunts me, so I never miss a day!)
2. Clean/moisturize my face
3. Put on Chapstick
4. Clean my nose
5. Use the bathroom
6. Drink water
7. Check e-mail
8. Check eBay
9. Browse instagram/Facebook

Same thing every single night!!!

What's your routine?  

Goodnight Thoughts......

Everything worth having is worth waiting for.  Whether it's a relationship, new career, having kids or whatever.  When you rush into things, usually the outcome isn't good.  "Good things really do come to those who wait!"  What's the rush?  It just might not be "your turn" yet.....just relax!  If it's not working your, maybe it's time to change things up a bit!

My Daughters Summer Vacation List!

So, here's a list of things my daughter plans to do while on vacation this summer with family!  This should make you smile.

1. Ice skating
2. Swimming
3. Snow balls
4. Go to magic mountain
5. Skating arena
6. Sleepover
7. Play dates
8. Treadmill
9. Running practice
10. Exercising

I don't think for number 3 that I'll be able to make that happen, but her list is too cute!!! 

40 Things That Really Annoy Me......

I'm sure the list could go on and on, but these are on the top of my list!

1. Wrinkled clothing annoy me, I iron everything!
2. Bad breath
3. Dirty Dishes
4. Disrespectful children
5. Wearing underwear
6. Liars
7. People who don't have kids with ridiculous advice
8. The phrase "what's up" when I call someone 
9. Folding clothes
10. Cleaning bathroom toilets
11. Procrastinators
12. Complainers
13. Negative people
14. Going to the dentist
15. Kids noses being dirty
16. Having acne problems in my thirties
17. Spoiled children who throw tantrums
18. Chapped lips
19. Folk who pretend to be "better than" everyone
20. Driving with the gas light on
21. Drivers on their cell phone
22. Dirty fingernails
23. Dirty ears
24. Going to the gynecologist for exams
25. People who cough or sneeze without covering their mouth
26. Eye contact when speaking directly to someone
27. Pests mainly cockroaches (living in Texas you come in contact frequently with them) 
28. Seeing kids standing up or moving around in a car when the car is in motion
29. Alcoholics who act an ass when tipsy
30. Cashiers who don't speak when spoken to
31. Asking for condiments at fast foods and they give you just one
32. Drivers who ride motorcyclists ass
33. Kids who know every song on the radio but can't read worth crap
34. Taking out the trash
35. People at the grocery store who keep taking items off their bill during checkout
36. People who honk their horn to get my attention 
37. Speeders in a school zone
38. Not having toilet paper in the bathroom when I sit down 
39. People who curse around children
40. Birds who poop on your car right after it's cleaned

Feeling Appreciated.....

Feeling appreciated is the best feeling for anyone.  It doesn't mean that you have to go out and buy someone a gift, but just saying it means so much more. For instance, my husband just came in one day and sat down and said "thank you for being a good wife!"  Of course he went on for thanking me for being a good mother to our children and not being a nag.  It meant so much to me just to know that my role as a mom and a wife doesn't go unnoticed.  Not only do you feel at your best when you hear kind words from someone as your husband/wife, but it makes the relationship stronger as well.  Tell someone how much you appreciate them, it'll mean more to them than you know!

My 5 All Time Favorite Perfumes

Many who don't know me well, but I have a thing for perfume.  I wear perfume pretty much everyday, and my shelf is filled with many, many awesome fragrances.  My favorite all time perfume I'd have to say is a Guess by Marciano.  I loved this smell from the moment I started wearing it.  I'll always have a replacement bottle waiting when one gets empty.  The scent will stay on you all day without having to reapply.  Versace Yellow Diamonds has a soft after shower smell and 2 squirts is all you need.  Heavenly by Victorias Secret, is another awesome scent.  However, they made changes to the new smell and it doesn't compare to the old scent that was loved by many.  Usher is a scent making a statement of  "I'm here! let the party begin!"  True religion has a casual citrus/fruity scent that last pretty much all day.  It's soft  Although I have many to choose from, these were my top picks!

1. Guess by. Marciano
2. Versace Yellow Diamonds
3. Heavenly by Victorias Secret
4. Usher for women
5. True Religion

What is your favorite fragrance?  

MORNING BREW...What's Your Focus, When Parenting?

Don't allow yourself to get caught up in "being your child's friend."  That part will come later, after the child recognizes and understands  "who's in charge!"  So many times I see parents who spend so much time trying to be their kids friends and not focusing on being a parent during the most critical time in their lives.  And when they reach adolescence,  the kid tends to talk and act out and the parent has no control.  and "they don't know why they're so disrespectful!"

Being a friend shouldn't be a parent's focus....that's not important.  Instilling goals, love, manners, good behavior, being responsible should be the focus if you want to see your child grow and mature into the adult you would like!

Any suggestions????

I've been a victim of adult acne since I've had children.  I hate it!  I feel like I'm a teenager again.  I've  used Clean & Clear for years, but now it doesn't seem like nothing is working.  So desperate, I ended up purchasing Proactive....no luck either!  Dermatologists put me on some different face meds, they didn't work either. I clean my face faithfully twice a day.  I can't take this, I now understand how people with regular acne problems feel.  This sucks.....

Do any of you have any suggestions???

It's That Time AGAIN.....

It's PCS time again.  For those of you that might not know what this means it stands for permanent change of stations.  I've been organizing and trashing things so this can be a smooth process.  This is the apart that I dread every time that it comes around.  Having to lug little ones around is the most complicated.  It's actually cool to be able to see different parts of the world.  However, I hate that my kids are getting to the age where they're sad because they created awesome relationships with their friends.  Heck, I've created some good friendships that I'll truly miss  a well.  I wish things could be different.  As for now, we'll have to rely on our good old technology.  FaceTime and Skype with friends will soon be a part of our weekly routine.

Only in Texas Will You See This!

Dear Fast Food Employees

Dear fast food employees,
I have no use for anything extra that I ask for on my sandwich besides my sandwich. If I ask for ketchup, that means I have fries! If I order 3 large fries, don't try and play me and only give me 3 packs of ketchup! Stop acting stingy, you don't buy any of the condiments, you just work there!  This behavior will not allow you to become manager any faster!

Sincerely,
#256 on my receipt who ordered extra pickles

I went to McDonald's and ordered 3 hamburgers extra pickle.  When I received my food, I checked them to make sure they were correct. Of course my order wasn't correct, but I'm sure you knew that already. I asked the manager if I could have some more pickles. He literally put 3 pickles in a sundae cup.  I thought to myself like "this dude has to be joking, it's not even his pickles!" When I ask for extra pickles, it doesn't mean 3 on the sandwich....it means like 8!

Life's Choices

Driving home this morning, I saw some high school students walking to school in their graduation gown.  It put a smile on my face as I thought "they made it."  What an accomplishment to graduate these days in a world filled with so much chaos.  What an even more awesome accomplishment to be able to maintained honor roll as well.  It's so easy these days to be influenced to do the wrong thing, but I've came across some amazing students who are leaders instead of followers.

In life, they're many different roads you're allowed to choose.  Life is about choices from the beginning.  It all depends on what road you decide to take.  Whatever road you decide, it's yours!  If it's a wrong one, remember that you can't place blame on anyone but yourself.  So many times, I see/hear individuals complaining about their life, but still continue to make bad choices.  It's always someone else's fault the way things are going for their life.  Own it, and then do something about it!

Morning Dew....God Shouldn't Be a Convenience!

Why do people only know God, when they're in trouble or things just ain't working out in their favor? You never see anything in their social media website talking about God when things are going great.  One day they posting really nasty pictures or cursing up a storm, then a few hours later on their news feed it says "Imma child of God" or "God is good!"  This is so confusing to me I'll never understand this, but I thought I'd point it out!  If you have some insight on this, help a sistah out because I'm lost. 

"God shouldn't be a convenience." Just thought that I would remind, in case you might of forgot!

Military Wives.....Does Your Husband Rank Control You?

I've been affiliated with the military for 11 years.  I've seen some pretty interesting things.  However, the one that I would like to give my opinion on is rank.  I've came across some of the snottiest wives in the military.  Why, you ask?  Because they're too concerned with the rank of the other military wives husband.  I could never really understand this whole "click" deal.  Why on earth does your husbands rank control who you decide to have a friendship with.  Half the time, no one really wants to even create a friendship with these wives in the first place.  Military wives should all come together as one.  We're all in this for the same reason right?  You really can't tell honestly.  After 11 years, different assignments, I can count about 3 good, honest military wives that won't stab me in the back.  Most of them can't be trusted, they pretend to be one way with you and then change up when other "clicks" come around.  What kind of authority do you really think you have just because your husbands rank is higher than someone else's.

All of the higher ranking husband wives are so snotty, except for myself.  I'm the person who you'd love to hang out with.

What is Your All Time 3 Favorite Candies???

1. Chocolate now & laters#
2. Original Lemonheads
3. Peanut butter Reese's Cups

Now it's time for you to share yours!  Ready.....go!

Interacting With Your Toddler....

Interacting with your to toddler is the best form for their learning.  The other day, I babysat a 3 year old who never really speaks when he's at home.  Well, that wasn't quite the case when he came to my house.  He asked so many questions, I could barely keep up.  I enjoy little ones asking me questions, I made sure I answered each one too.  When it was time to leave, I gave his mother an update on how he behaved and all the questions he asked.   She was so surprised that he talked pretty much the whole time that he was at my house.  She says, "he never talks and ask questions at home."

My thoughts:

Berween ages 2 and 3, children develop the cognitive ability to make logical connections between things--to understand why things happen. This is a critical skill that helps them gain a much more complex understanding of how the world works.. When they ask, “why?” they are showing a thirst for knowledge. They want more information. So asking “why” is critical for your child. The more she asks, “why?”, the more she learns.  Don't ignore their questions, interact with them!  At one point in life, you were their age.  Allow them the ability to learn!

Pull Ups Training Pants Name Brand or Off Brand?

Which do you prefer?

My opinion (having 3 kids), I truly love Huggies Pull-Ups better than any other.  Why you ask?  My kids seem to soak them during bedtime and they never seem to leak.  They may be slightly expensive, but if you're lucky you can find a coupon for them on the bags in the store.  Would you rather have a soaked bed or a soaked pull-up in the morning.  Some things you just don't buy off brand, this is one of those things!!

Do You Have A Unhealthy Relationship?

So, I'm at the orthodontist appointment.  If any of you experienced braces know what an appointment consist of.  I was so ready to go home and take some ibuprofen.  My phone rings and on the other end was an associate trying to play catch up because I haven't talked to her in almost month.  To make the long story short she asked if I could pick her up so she could go to Walmart with me.  Even though I wasn't planning on driving past Walmart to pick her up and go back, I decided to get her.  First issue I had was I was sitting in my car waiting for her to come out, even when I called and notified that I was waiting for her.  When I was gathering my groceries in my truck, she then ask "can you take me to my uncles house, he has high blood pressure."  Well, I'm not a nurse but I do know that 120 isn't a HBP.  I politely told her "I don't really feel like driving that far, but I'll take you!"

On my drive home, I got to thinking (since it was clear across town).  Some people always seem to have some type issues going on.  They never just seem to be at a stand still, and everything is going great.  This happens to be one of those type of people.  There's a reason that my phone never seems to ring when she call me.  Even my phone hates hearing such dramatic people on the phone.

In life, you have to weed out negative relationships.  Those people who drain us of energy, demand more than they can provide, pull us down instead of push us forward, and can turn the happiest of moments into a miserable affair.

Unhealthy relationships usually:

• take more energy than it gives
• Usually the one doing all of the giving
• Everything is about them and never about you
• You find yourself unable to enjoy good moments with this person

“It is necessary, and even vital, to set standards for your life and the people you allow in it.” 

Braces after 30?

I remember as a child I wanted to have braces so bad.  But now that I'm an adult and having braces, I don't think that I would have the patience and will power to follow all instructions as a teenager.  As an adult, some just realize how important oral hygiene is as opposed to being younger.  As a teenager, you kind of blow things off like not flossing everyday or brushing at night.  My experience with braces had truly been an interesting one.  But in the end, I'll be able to feel my best with a smile worth thousands, literally!!

Smile, it brings out the best in you!

No Worries......

Well, I just locked myself out of the house walking to pick up my kids from school.  I couldn't be mad, all I'm doing is laughing at myself.  I dreaded the phonecall to my husband only because he'll have to leave work to come open the door.  One thing about him though, he never seems to get upset about much.  Always calm and relaxed.  He says, "no worries. I'll be there shortly." Life should be about "no worries." Most of the things that may happen in our life, you can't change, you deal with it or grow from it! I'm this case, I'm dealing with it! :-)

Smile, it looks good on you!

Setting Boundaries in the Workplace

How do you avoid crossing boundaries?  Is it worth the risk losing your family?

• A HEALTHY work spouse situation is between people who would never let their friendship venture in to an inappropriate space, and understand that fine line.
• NEVER share personal information about yourself at work, especially private details of your marriage. If someone does share personal information with you, tell your spouse so you don't create a secret world your spouse is not aware of.
• Be upfront and HONEST about the closeness and bond of your real-life relationship.
• Don't be alone with a person of the opposite sex separate from your job. Romantic relationships come out of recreational activities and intimate conversations. <---Any fool knows this!
• Don't drink with your work spouse. When you drink, boundaries get blurred.
• Introduce your real spouse to your office spouse, so it isn't exclusive.
• Avoid constantly talking about your office spouse at home. Don't overdo it.
• Aim to keep the mood light and happy with your work spouse so that drama from home doesn't bleed in to what should be a professional relationship.
• Keep the lines of communication open between other co-workers and your real-life spouse so that your work spouse relationship is not interpreted as a clique, or exclusive.

If something you're doing outside of the home where you feel you're unable to share with your spouse, it's safe to say that it's most likely wrong!  Know your values, if you have any.  If you're unhappy in your real marriage, either fix it or end it.  Everything you do as an individual being married affects everyone in your family.  

Ladies, ladies, ladies!!!!

It's okay to get yourself dressed each day for nothing.  Even if you don't have anywhere to go but to the grocery store or just to your kids school.  Being a mother/wife shouldn't feel like a chore where you forget to impress yourself.  Fix yourself up before leaving out the house.  Leave the pajamas and slippers for bedtime.  Take an hour to yourself and get yourself together.  The more you do it, the less time it'll start taking.  The way you look on the outside has a tremendous effect on you inside.  Step your game up, being a mommy doesn't mean you exclude yourself from fixing yourself before walking out the door!

My challenge to you ladies, get yourself together. Play dress up with yourself. It doesn't have to be a special occasion to play dress up EVERYDAY!  And remember, just because it's your size doesn't mean you should wear it.

What I miss most about my life before kids is.....

• Not having to make dinner
• Being able to just get up and go
• Only having to make my appointments 
• My choice of music
• Only having a few dishes in the sink to wash
• Sleeping later than 7am
• My weight loss was much easier
• Carrying purses daily (my purse now is the diaper bag)

All these things I miss, but without my children...my life would be so boring! Keeping up with my children is keeping me young!  

What do you miss most about your life before kids?

What Would You Want to Be Remembered For?

If something ever was too happen to me, what would you want to be remembered for?

I would want to be remembered for is the caring heart that I seem to have.  I'm always trying to find a way to help someone in need or just being there for those in need.  I would give give my last dollar if I knew it would help you get out of whatever situation you may be going through.  I would also love to be remembered for being an awesome mommy to my awesome kiddies.  That I work so hard each day to see them happy and successful in school. Oh, and one more thing! I would like to be remembered for the awesome wife I've been to my husband.  Always being loyal and not the nagging type.  Giving him the secure feeling that he needs in our relationship. 

I'm sure I could list many things, but those were the top things that came to mind!

How my Childhood Changed Me As a Parent Today?

My childhood has had huge impact on how I raise my kids.  I've seen a lot of abuse and negativity while growing up.  I made a vow to myself that my kids will never experience none of the things that I went through.  My childhood was nothing to brag about.  Being raised by both parents sometimes isn't always grand.  Folk may say, "well at least you had both parents."  That comment can be burned.  No child, I repeat, no child should see emotional and physical abuse day in and day out.  I honestly think we suffered so much that we should've gotten some counseling. 

This vow I made to myself for my unborn children is to never put them in any situation where they feel lost.  Confused in life, feeling like they have no where to go out no one to talk to.  Always making sure they're happy before leaving out to school.  To always see happy moments with their parents, no violence!

Things aren't always what they seem.  On the outside, it appeared as this lovely happy family.  But on the inside, it was far from that happy family that was perceived from others!

How has your childhood changed you as a parent?

Morning Brew....Mothers Day Blues?

Mother's Day is over, what did you expect? 

As a mother, you really shouldn't expect anything.  This is the role that we've decided we wanted to take on.  I know for me, getting presents are nice...but I don't expect/want them.  I'm content with just a hug and kiss from my kids.  Don't allow yourself to get so caught up thinking that being recognized with gifts on Mother's Day is what it's all about.  Just because you may not have received anything, does that mean you stop being a mother? Remember, there's always a positive in every situation.  Be thankful that you're someone's mother.  There are so many women right now trying to conceive.  There are so many who can't conceive, but don't have 20,000 sitting in their account to get the adoption process going.  Mother's Day is about showing gratitude, this doesn't necessarily mean buying gifts.  For little ones that can't talk, they don't understand.  The smile on their face when they see you in the morning should be enough.   If you really think about it, acknowledgment one day a year doesn't equal the amount of stuff you do daily anyhow!

The Struggle....

EVERYONE struggles at some point in life, whether it's big or small! Many who never try to achieve anything have the slightest clue as to how much effort, time, patience, consistency it took to overcome and succeed. They only see the end result, wishing things could be the same for their lives.  You want change, but don't want to put in the work to get it.  Complaining doesn't get you anywhere but right where you started (if you started anything at all).

Pro players, all you see is them at the end playing on television.  Doctors and nurses, all you see is them taking care of you. Teachers, all you see is them giving lectures. Military men and women, all you see is the BDU and rank they're wearing.  You never stop to think of their struggle.  Not one person has anything handed to them. You literally have to work your ass off to get where you want! When you reach your accomplishment, then you can say "Man, it was a tough ride, but I did it!"

Whatever your struggle may be in life, don't let it control where you want to be! Stop complaining, take action and get in gear.  The ride will be bumpy, but it's so worth it!

Have a good Monday, thanks for reading!

Morning Brew....A Healthy Marriage Takes Time & Effort

Tell them you love them often

Always remain friends

Laugh often

Allow your spouse to be themselves 

Never stay mad

Give each other space

Help with chores

Forgiveness

Faithfulness

Honesty

Security

Communication

Selflessness

Time

A marriage won't always go the way that you may want it to go.  Trust me, no marriage is perfect.  If someone ever tell you that, they're lying.  I'm still learning the do's and don't's of my marriage after almost 10 years.  The amount of time and effort you put into it will determine what you'll get out of it.  

Happy Mothers Day from the Voices Who Can't Speak!

Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful mothers out there that work their asses off each and every day.  Even if your child is too young to realize the goodness of your work, they still appreciate you.  I'll be their voice for today, if they're too small this is what they would like you to know:

"I really appreciate all your hard work to make sure that I have everything I need to grow.  Thank you for nurturing me and giving me the secure feeling that I need at my young age.  I'm truly blessed to have you as my mom.  I may be small now but when I'm much older, I'll be able to express my gratitude and make you a card.  Keep up the good work mommy, I'm rooting for you! When I cry, don't get frustrated....I'm just expressing myself a little because I can't speak yet!  Just be patient with me, we'll learn each other one day at a time. I promise I'll get better at this thing called life, just give me some time. I love you very much way to go Mommy, you rock!"

Don't Allow Your Kids To Be a Handicap!

As a parent, you shouldn't feel as if your kids are a handicap for you to do normal activities with them.  "Oh, don't take them to the movies, they're only one" or "don't take them to church, they might act out."  At what point do you you just stop and listen to the ridiculousness comments that are coming out of your mouth.  I'm a parent, a good one for that matter.  It's all about teaching kids how to behave.  If you don't ever allow your child to experience taking them places where some may feel they shouldn't go, how will they ever learn?  Children are like clay, what you teach them or allow them to get by with is how they'll behave.  Then, this carries on to their teenage and adult years.  Then you'll complain as to why my child is acting out in public.  Many times I see parents who take their young children to grocery stores and they're throwing tantrums.  Does that mean that you send them to a sitter while you go out to do grocery shopping or out for dinner? Absolutely not!  I always hear folk who may say "oh just let them be, they're going through their terrible twos."  Rather it's terrible twos or just a phrase they might be going through, toddlers will test their parents to see how much they can get by with.  As a parent, we're suppose to correct their negative behavior and reward them for their positive behavior.  What parents do and don't do, say and don't say, provide their children with the experiences that the children interpret into beliefs. Those beliefs, in turn, then determine their behavior and emotions and, ultimately, their lives-for better or for worse.  

"MOMMY'S SHADOW"

When I was a little girl,

I was like your shadow, always near.

While learning what the world was about,

I followed your footsteps day in and day out.

There were so many things I wanted to know,

Your answered my questions and help me grow.

Ask took soon Mommy, I will be grown

And making my way in this world in my own.

When you remember the good times we had,

And wish I was with you, funny be sad.

Just stand by this picture and pretend,

That I am your shadow once again.


*This is what my daughter gave to me this morning, it made not made my day but it also made me cry!

The funniest moment of the night.....

The funniest thing just happened.  I had just finished brushing my teeth for bed when I heard my oldest daughter in her room coughing in her sleep.  I go in there and turn on the light and she was....well I thought she was taking off her pajamas because she was hot.  Nope, my daughter was about to urinate right on the floor.  I screamed "no, wait" loud enough for her to wake up...I definitely didn't see myself cleaning the carpet tonight or any day for that matter.  She eventually pulled her pajamas back up and went to the bathroom!  Geesh, just think if I hadn't of went in her there when I did it would've been a disaster

A Reason, Season or Lifetime......

It so amazing to me as I sit and think of how everything that happens in life has a purpose.  You may never know that purpose in most cases but it still gets you to wondering.  I was having a conversation earlier and I was told that were all like ships, and we meet people along the way.  Sometimes the ship stops, but in the end life still goes on.

One incident that has been on my mind today is a friend that I met recently.  It was only for a short period of time, but I think I was put at the same location at that moment for a reason.  I felt like God wanted me to guide her in the direction that she knew she already needed to go.  Sometimes in life, it's always good to just stop and listen.  I felt that she craved the attention that I gave her and that was just to listen.  You don't always have to help and find a solution to others problems.  She just needed an ear and a shoulder to cry on.  We all have busy lives but you have to know when to just slow it down for a minute.  You just might be saving someone's life by just being there for them, showing them that you actually care!

The saying that comes to mind is "People come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime." When people come into your life for a SEASON, it is because your turn has come to share, grow, or learn.  Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person/people (anyway); and put what you have learned to use.  I'm glad to say that I was at the right place at the right time to be able to listen, encourage and give strength to someone who just needed a little energizer boost in this thing called life.  

Cinemark Admission Age Fee is RIDICULOUS!

So I take my kiddies to the movies.  Wanting to do something fun today and when it was time to pay I was so shocked to find out that they charge regular price for 1 year olds.  Whoever made this ridiculous price scale must don't have any kids.  If they did, they would know that 1 year olds attention span is shorter than a noodle.  If I would've known that, I would've left her at home with dad. During, the movie (which I didn't even stay to finish) she never wanted to sit, she kept wanting to go to the bathroom.  I ended up voicing my opinion to one of the managers of how ridiculous it was to charge full price for children her age.  I gathered up my other children who were asleep and left.  He did however give me free passes to come back later, but I've now learned my lesson.  I'll never understand it though, but I won't be taking her to another theater unless it's one of the dollar theaters.

What is your dream job?

My dream job has always been to model.  However, getting into the model industry isn't as easy as some may think.  However, I was able to attend the John Casablanca modeling and career center and it was an awesome experience.  With every situation you have to find the positive out of it.  I learned so much more and still use most of the skills to this day.  I was able to do modeling locally, so I'll take what I can get.  I'll stick to my personal mini photoshoots! :)

What is your dream job?

Craiglists??

Do you use Craigslist? Have you had any bad experiences?

I believe that Craigslist is totally safe.  I know, I know....I watched the movie.  But when you think about it, anything can happen to you anywhere.  Now, I wouldn't go on there to hook up with anyone, but if you play if safe...you'll be good!

Don't accept checks
Meet in a well lit public area
Always take someone with you

If you have to go alone, Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back, and make sure to keep your cell phone with you. 

**Be smart and trust your gut, if something just doesn't sound or feel right it probably isn't!**

Gift Ideas for Mothers Day....

1. Flowers
2. Gift Cards
3. Spa day 
4. Shari's Berries 
5. Jewelry
6. Perfume
7. Dinner and movie
8. Homemade cards
9. Spending the Day with mom
10. Edible Arrangement
11. Make her breakfast

If you just can't seem to think of anything, it's okay!  Be simple. Most mom's don't really expect anything, at least I don't!  I only look forward to a day off from doing anything!

My Morning Brew.......

Make sure your friendship is reciprocated....if it's really a friendship!  If you feel like you may be the only one always picking up a phone or sending a text, you probably need to reevaluate your circle of so called friends.  When things aren't going well shouldn't be the only time you hear from someone, but in good times too!!!

The Child I Lost.....Trisomy 18

A few years ago, being pregnant with my 3rd child.  I was forced to make a life changing experience. At 5 months, I went in for my ultrasound appointment.  While doing the ultrasound, the doctor expression gave me a clue that something was wrong. He noticed that my child only had two instead of four heart chambers.  While continuing the ultrasound, he noticed 2 dark marks on my unborn sons brain.  He immediately sent me the next day for an amniocentesis.  I didn't get any sleep that night.  I actually cried off and on the remainder of the night.  I went to my appointment, got my amnio and waited for the results.  My son was diagnosed with Trisomy 18.
What is trisomy 18?
Trisomy 18, also known as Edwards syndrome, is a condition which is caused by a error in cell division, known as meiotic disjunction.  Trisomy 18 occurs in about 1 out of every 2500 pregnancies in the United States, about 1 in 6000 live births.  The numbers of total births increase significantly when stillbirths are factored in that occur in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy. 
Unlike Down syndrome, which also is caused by a chromosomal defect, the developmental issues caused by Trisomy 18 are associated with medical complications that are more potentially life-threatening in the early months and years of life. 50% of babies who are carried to term will be stillborn, with baby boys having higher stillbirth rate than baby girls.
At birth, intensive care admissions in Neonatal units are most common for infants with Trisomy 18. Again, baby boys will experience higher mortality rates in this neonatal period than baby girls, although those with higher birth weights do better across all categories.
Some children will be able to be discharged from the hospital with home nursing support for their families. And although less than 10 percent survive to their first birthdays, some children with Trisomy 18 can enjoy many years of life with their families, reaching milestones and being involved with their community.  A small number of adults (usually girls) with Trisomy 18 have and are living into their twenties and thirties, although with significant developmental delays that do not allow them to live independantly without assisted caregiving.

After researching and knowing the facts, I had to make the biggest decision of my life.  I was also told that they wouldn't do open heart surgery on a newborn and that was if he lived that long.  I cried for the next couple days, knowing that my decision would be to deliver him and not allow him to be in anymore pain.  Feeling him kick me inside while driving to the hospital to deliver him was the worst feeling anyone can ever experience.  After delivering him, I just held him and prayed with him cuddled in my arms.  The doctors seemed shocked that I didn't want them to take him out the room.  He eventually passed away 2 hours later.

I'm telling you one of my stories today, to maybe help another mother who may be going through the same thing.  I can say, the hurt doesn't go away but the healing gets better each time I'm able to share my story.  As I mentioned before, you never know what someone may be going through.  Some find a way to find strength and peace through prayer and support. Having to go through this horrific experience has made me such a stronger person.  It's made me look at life differently.  I value my healthy kids that God has allowed me carry and nurture them full term!  We have no control over our lives,  He does.  In the end, I know that I've made the right decision.  I know that my little boy is watching over me each day.

RIH son, mommy will always love you!

What is Your Child's Reading Level?

Summer is almost approaching.  What activities will you child be doing this summer?  All local libraries offer reading programs.  Have you tested your child lately on their reading level?  Listed below is the recommended reading rates for your child based on their grade level.  Set a timer for one minute.  Start at a specific point in the text and have your child read aloud for one full minute. Make a mark on a separate sheet of paper for any words that are read incorrectly or fumbled across.  When the times goes off, the child stops reading. Count all the words from the start to the end point of the section read and subtract the incorrect words. 

First grade: 60-80 correct words per minutes with 0-2 errors

Second grade: 80-100 correct words per minute with 0-2 errors

Third grade: 90-120 correct words per minute with 0-2 errors

Fourth grade: 115-140 correct words per minute with 0-2 errors

Fifth grade: 125-150 correct words per minute with 0-2 errors

Sixth grade: 135-160 correct words per minute with 0-2 errors

Seventh grade: 140-175 correct words per minute with 0-2 errors

Eighth grade: 150-180 correct words per minute with 0-2 errors 

Ninth grade – Adult: 180-200 correct words per minute with 0-2 errors

"The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more you learn, the more places you'll go." — Dr. Seuss

Afternoon thoughts......No Negativity!

Negativity can come in many forms. Words, thoughts, and most importantly, actions. Why is it, that regardless of how happy a situation could be, there are people who can find some way to bring negativity to it.

"Oh, you just had a baby? How exciting. Good luck with the baby weight."
"Oh, you just got a better job? How exciting. More money, more problems."

This is not a normal response, but somewhere in life our perception of happiness has been altered. The ability to be happy for someone and their successes or happy moments are overshadowed by our own inability to be happy for ourselves. Many times we are mad at
ourselves because of misfortune, missed opportunities or just bad luck, and we are unable to be happy for others.

If you are in a rut .... Having a bad go at life .... or find yourself being unhappy, don't sow those seeds of discontentment. Make a small change, one day at a time.

It's OK not to be happy for me, but don't attempt to minimize my accomplishments and bring me down.

KEEPING MY MOUTH SHUT!

Don't you hate when you say something and feel like a total goof ball after saying it?

It just happened to me!  A lady that had already had her baby, I thought she was still pregnant. I said to her "you had the baby already?" While staring at her stomach (she still looked pregnant) These are the times where I need to learn to keep my mouth shut.  To make things worse, this isn't my first time I've done this either!

I am The Military Wife.....

Being a military wife is a tough job.  Not every women is cut to handle this position. There are many times where I feel like a single parent. Taking kids to appointments, making it to the school for school performances, having dinner ready, cleaning, washing clothes all before the alarm sounds telling you it's time to pick up the kids.  I sometimes find myself getting sad from missing my family. Being stationed all over the world has it's perks but if you're close with your family, it can also be depressing at times. You learn how to cope, but at times it can be overwhelming.  Not having family near really makes a difference. Some days when the night is quiet and the kids are in bed, I just sit in silence.  My days literally revolve around my kids. I tend to look forward to sitting at the park after I pick my kids up from school just to be around adults.  Everyday is the same, just a different day.

To all my military wives/SAHM keep up the good work. I know what you're going through! Create memories with your kiddies. Whenever you get overwhelmed, just sit in silence.  Get your mind right so you can tackle your duties for tomorrow.  I applaud you for having the patience and skills to multitask so much in one day!  It'll pay off in the end, at least that's what I keep telling myself!

Thankful Thursday!

What are you thankful for? 

I'm thankful for many things!  I'm truly thankful for being a great mom to my children.  Knowing that I'm providing them with all the tools to allow them to grow into responsible adults.  Leave me a comment, and let me know what you're thankful for!

Does Sexual Orientation Matter?

How do you react inside when someone's sexual orientation is different than yours?  Does it make you feel uneasy?  Do you distant yourself from that person? Do you remain friends with that person?

**Since I'm an honest person, you'll only receive my honest personal opinions.**

My answer to all the questions above is none of it matters.  Regardless if you have a particular preference, I'll never treat you any different than any other human being.  Do I have acquaintances that have different gender preference?  Of course I do, and I love the fact that they're able to live their lives freely without having a care in the world as to what others think about them.  No one person is any better than the other.  We tend to judge others without remembering that we're all human beings. We forget that most of the time that we're all sinners.  There's no such thing as "your sins being better than someone else's."  Gender preference shouldn't matter when it comes to friendship.  Loyalty, honesty and trust is what matters.  Friendship is a blessing that can make you the happiest and most successful person in the world, no matter what your status.”

My Challenge to you....

I went to the grocery store this morning. As I was leaving and getting my daughter situated in the cart a lady walks by and I say "hello, good morning!" She smiled and responded back. Without thinking,  I looked back up and said to her "you are so pretty!" She's smiled and says, "thank you!" She looked very shocked for someone to compliment her.

We, as women these days find it so hard to compliment each other. Most of the time, I'll see women just staring or even giving dirty looks. I never think before I say things most of the time.  Is that a good thing?  It depends on the current moment, but you can never go wrong with complimenting another human being.  You may never know what kind of day they may be having.  That one small compliment could mean so much.

So, my challenge to you for today is "Give a compliment" it won't kill you, I promise!

Before I was a Mom....

Before I was a Mom...

I made and ate hot meals. I had unstained clothing. I had quiet conversations on the phone. 

Before I was a Mom... I slept as late as I wanted and never worried about how late I got into bed. I brushed my hair and my teeth everyday. 

Before I was a Mom... I cleaned my house each day. I never tripped over toys or forgot words to lullabies.

Before I was a Mom... I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous. I never thought about Immunizations. 

Before I was a Mom... I had never been puked on, pooped on, spit on, chewed on, peed on or pinched by tiny fingers. I had complete control of my mind, my thoughts, and my body. I slept all night. 

Before I was a Mom... I never held down a screaming child so that doctors could do tests or give shots. I never looked into teary eyes and cried. I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin. I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep. 

Before I was a Mom... I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put it down. I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt. I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much. I never knew that I could love someone so much. I never knew I would love being a Mom. 

Before I was a Mom... I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body. I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby. I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child. I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important. 

Before I was a Mom... I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay. I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache, the wonderment, or the satisfaction of being a Mom. I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much before I was a Mom.

Author: Unknown

My Morning Dew

Are you having a good morning??

Sure you are, you're still alive! So many times I wake up and notice folk who just complain about every single thing. Most of the things are really irrelevant and I ask myself "why do they wake up, just ugly?"  This thing we call life isn't easy for many of us, however you should be able to know what's important and what's not. Stop complaining! Put a smile on your face and move forward. If you may feel negative about any situation you may be going through, REMOVE IT from your circle. If it doesn't hold any value in your life, wash your hands from it! Focus on YOU, make decisions for YOU!  You're book is already written, ride the waves and go with the flow!

"No matter who you are, no matter what you did, no matter where you've come from, you can always change, become a better version of yourself."

Helping Others......

So my thought for the day is as follows:

You are laying on the beach, and you see someone flopping and sinking in the waters. You go swimming out to help them, and the waters are slowly pulling you under as you try to help. As you reach out to grab them, they hit you and knock you unconscious. Now you both drown, and all you wanted to do was help.

So is the same with life. Know the help you can provide, by looking at your own strengths and weaknesses. If as you are attempting to help, you notice the person you are trying to help doesn't want your help, or doesn't notice you are trying to help them, it is OK to save yourself. Never allow someone else to pull you into their struggles so much that you both need help. Never give so much of yourself that you feel you overwhelmed and exhausted. It is just as helpful, if not more, to help them find the right help.

Are You Setting A Good Example?

Are you a good example?

Being a good parent requires many things besides making sure their fed, cleaned and clothed properly. Parents are the role models of their children.  How are you feeding your child's growing brain?  Can you honestly say that you're doing the right thing in front of your children?

Being selective on what you say, watch and do will have a tremendous impact on your child while they're growing up. If you're cursing, fighting and yelling....guess what?  Your kid will probably follow your footsteps. You may think that "oh they're small, they don't understand" you'd be surprise as to how much a child understands. In fact, they're a lot smarter than most adults. I was sitting at the park the other day and a parent pulled up to pick their child up from school with their music blasting with profanity. Another occasion, the parent was fussing at their child and called them a "dumb fuck." We as parents have to do better and grow up ourselves. Then we wonder why the kid are misbehaving in school, or sitting in juvenile detention. Do you honestly want to know what the problem is? The parent contributes to all their child's actions, even at the youngest age. I've seen toddlers cursing and hitting their parent and for some strange reason, the parent thought that it was cute. It's not cute, it's only setting them up for failure.

Be their example! Turn off the radio in the car if you can't find something appropriate for your child's ears. Turn the television to kid friendly shows!  Don't encourage bad behavior, put your foot down. It's ok, it's only temporary! Don't be that parent wishing they did things differently......

Trust me, they'll thank you later!

Make it Worthwhile

Children are so innocent! The minds of children have no boundaries. As a child, I saw so much which took away from the little things. When I got older I made a promise to never allow my children to see things that will effect the most important part of growing up.

When I was a child, I saw and heard so much negativity, it effected my adult life. It caused so much anger and hurt and I never really understood why trusting others was so difficult when I grew older. People fail to realize how much a child can be affected by the smallest things in their environment.

Make a vow to yourself and your children to never allow them to see things that they can't comprehend in their little brains. Allow them to grow up thinking there is a tooth fairy or Santa. They'll eventually realize, these things aren't real. They'll soon understand the difference from fictional and non-fictional. Being a child last for only a short period of time....Make it worth their while!

MY MORNING DEW.....

"Your value allows you the ability to never allow your heart the acceptance of belittlement, manipulation- but to strive for the equivalent of your worth"