For your viewing pleasure...
Natalie
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
This Boy Has Moves
As my long time followers know, Nolan's always loved to dance...so here's a little dance he did yesterday morning.
For your viewing pleasure...
Natalie
For your viewing pleasure...
Natalie
Monday, January 28, 2013
Random Monday
Oh man it's Monday? I have a love/hate relationship with Monday. I hate it because it means the weekend is over, but it also means I get my house back in order. Or something resembling order...because we all know what kind of toll a baby and toddler can have on a house.
This weekend I had trouble coordinating the boys' naps (Conley's 2nd one of the day) but for the 20 minutes that I did I found myself in front of the TV stuffing cloth diapers.
Random fact about me: if I am left with the remote and nothing is on the TV you will find me watching reruns of Sex and the City or a movie. For example, I watched parts of Ocean's 13 and 27 Dresses. I can always just pick up a movie in the middle whereas my husband would rather watch it from the beginning. That's just how I roll.
Did you guys see the good news? I finally joined Instagram! My username is fromcorporatetodomestic. My lovely designer, Tiffany has even added the Instagram icon to my social icons.
Here's a few photos I took with my phone on Instagram this weekend:
Just a typical weekend with the boys!
This weekend I had trouble coordinating the boys' naps (Conley's 2nd one of the day) but for the 20 minutes that I did I found myself in front of the TV stuffing cloth diapers.
Random fact about me: if I am left with the remote and nothing is on the TV you will find me watching reruns of Sex and the City or a movie. For example, I watched parts of Ocean's 13 and 27 Dresses. I can always just pick up a movie in the middle whereas my husband would rather watch it from the beginning. That's just how I roll.
Did you guys see the good news? I finally joined Instagram! My username is fromcorporatetodomestic. My lovely designer, Tiffany has even added the Instagram icon to my social icons.
Here's a few photos I took with my phone on Instagram this weekend:
Just a typical weekend with the boys!
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
A Rant, A Rave, and Other Stuff
Howdy folks! It's almost Wednesday and this gal can't be more excited the week is almost over.
I've got some random tidbits to share with you today:
Rant--I'm so OVER trying to schedule pediatric visits for the boys. I love my pediatrician and the practice, but GEEZ it is like an act of congress to schedule an appointment. Normally, you would think you could schedule your next appointment when you are leaving the office. Nope...not in this place. Because my doctor's "specific" scheduler is not there. So I have to call back...and when I call back she's not there...and then they have to call me back. Ridiculous!
The scheduler called me back yesterday and said she had one time they could fit me in for Conley's six month appointment. I'm like that day and time does not work for me...I either need Tuesday/Thursday morning or anytime on Friday. I do not think this is unreasonable, do you? So I tell the lady it's perfectly fine for her to push out the appointment for a few weeks because he had his four month appointment a few weeks late. She said well the doctor is booked until April. I mean really people? First they make it impossible to schedule the appointment in advance by not allowing you to do it when you're at the office---then when you do try to schedule you only get one shot for a time slot.
I stood my ground and said that time didn't work, so now she's talking to the doctor and getting back to me. She didn't call back yet, so we'll see where this goes. Honestly, I wouldn't even care to see another doctor because I like them all. Ok rant over now to the rave!
Rave--Nolan is such a little chatter box lately. He's saying everything he hears and starting even more complicated sentences. It's so cute, and I just love hearing his new phrases and his new thoughts. He constantly says that he is funny and silly. It's amazing how kids can have a sense of humor and comedic timing at such a young age. He also loves seeing our happy, mad, and sad faces. The sweetest phrase is when he says, "I love you Momma, I love you Daddy, I love you Conley." Melts my heart every time. He also loves running around the house in just a diaper when I'm trying to change him and screaming, "Naked! Naked!" or "Nolan is super fast!" Lately his newest saying is, "Grandma is sick, feel better Grandma." Such a sweet boy! Oh and I am pretty sure he had his first tattle today. When I picked him up from MDO, he said, "Natalie made a big mess." And yes he has a little girl in class named Natalie. I wish I could think of all the funny things he says, but alas my mom brain has kicked into gear.
I'm thinking of trying to start teaching him to read. He knows all his ABC's, can count to about 15, all his colors/shapes/animals/objects etc. I noticed that he's starting to recognize words. I don't want him to get bored, and since he's such a sponge I want to keep challenging him. Any thoughts or tips on this? I've read different opinions on the matter but not sure what to do.
I'm debating on going to Bloggy Bootcamp in Charlotte, NC. Trying to figure out if it works out...lots of details to iron out. How about you, are you going?
Natalie
I've got some random tidbits to share with you today:
Rant--I'm so OVER trying to schedule pediatric visits for the boys. I love my pediatrician and the practice, but GEEZ it is like an act of congress to schedule an appointment. Normally, you would think you could schedule your next appointment when you are leaving the office. Nope...not in this place. Because my doctor's "specific" scheduler is not there. So I have to call back...and when I call back she's not there...and then they have to call me back. Ridiculous!
The scheduler called me back yesterday and said she had one time they could fit me in for Conley's six month appointment. I'm like that day and time does not work for me...I either need Tuesday/Thursday morning or anytime on Friday. I do not think this is unreasonable, do you? So I tell the lady it's perfectly fine for her to push out the appointment for a few weeks because he had his four month appointment a few weeks late. She said well the doctor is booked until April. I mean really people? First they make it impossible to schedule the appointment in advance by not allowing you to do it when you're at the office---then when you do try to schedule you only get one shot for a time slot.
I stood my ground and said that time didn't work, so now she's talking to the doctor and getting back to me. She didn't call back yet, so we'll see where this goes. Honestly, I wouldn't even care to see another doctor because I like them all. Ok rant over now to the rave!
Rave--Nolan is such a little chatter box lately. He's saying everything he hears and starting even more complicated sentences. It's so cute, and I just love hearing his new phrases and his new thoughts. He constantly says that he is funny and silly. It's amazing how kids can have a sense of humor and comedic timing at such a young age. He also loves seeing our happy, mad, and sad faces. The sweetest phrase is when he says, "I love you Momma, I love you Daddy, I love you Conley." Melts my heart every time. He also loves running around the house in just a diaper when I'm trying to change him and screaming, "Naked! Naked!" or "Nolan is super fast!" Lately his newest saying is, "Grandma is sick, feel better Grandma." Such a sweet boy! Oh and I am pretty sure he had his first tattle today. When I picked him up from MDO, he said, "Natalie made a big mess." And yes he has a little girl in class named Natalie. I wish I could think of all the funny things he says, but alas my mom brain has kicked into gear.
I'm thinking of trying to start teaching him to read. He knows all his ABC's, can count to about 15, all his colors/shapes/animals/objects etc. I noticed that he's starting to recognize words. I don't want him to get bored, and since he's such a sponge I want to keep challenging him. Any thoughts or tips on this? I've read different opinions on the matter but not sure what to do.
I'm debating on going to Bloggy Bootcamp in Charlotte, NC. Trying to figure out if it works out...lots of details to iron out. How about you, are you going?
Natalie
Monday, January 21, 2013
A Mom on a Budget
My last day of work was October of 2010, the day I went into labor with Nolan. Until that point, my husband and I were used to two good incomes. We had always planned for me to stay at home once we had children, but we had no idea what kind of sacrifices we would have to make to allow this.
And even if your are a working mom or a part-time working mom those kiddos are expensive! So that's why we're always looking for the best deals. Here's my 5 tips on how to save money once having kids:
1) Eat at home more--of course when they are babies you don't buy them food at restaurants, but even just you and your spouse's meal can add up. We rarely eat at a restaurant unless it's somewhere quick and somewhere we don't have to tip. Plus if you make food at home you can have leftovers that you can use for the next day. Not to mention it's healthier to eat at home and less processed. We also have our own square foot garden to grow some of our very own veggies.
2) Shop for clothes in the off season. I can't tell you how many deals I've found by just getting next year's size for my boys. We're talking like $2 for shirt or pants. Sometimes I find that to be a better deal than shopping at a consignment sale, plus it's new!
3) Find free activities to attend in your community. I've mentioned before we have a store called that has featured events that are free. Also visiting parks and many other museums are free. I think a lot of people miss out because they don't know these events exist--I stay connected by receiving newsletters or from Facebook pages.
4) Shopping stores that offer variety--like Family Dollar. I find that a store that isn't just a "specific item" store has more of a chance to offer you a bargain on many products because they have variety and more buying power. Where I grew up, we only had a few stores and Family Dollar was one of them. We found many great deals there.
5) DIY it. I know sometimes it can be more expensive to do it yourself, but most of the time you can find better deals on the materials for the project. We have completed a lot of our home improvements ourselves including: renovating our kitchen (cabinets, tile, paint, sink, etc.), building our own deck, renovating our guest bathroom (new vanity, tile, towel bar, paint, and toilet). It's amazing the money we've saved and how much we have increased the value of our home.
Now if you do have a baby in the house...like me, with two in diapers here's a great product and deal from Family Dollar:
Introducing the newest addition to the family of Kidgets products: Kidgets Baby Wipes! Available exclusively at Family Dollar, Kidgets baby wipes are made with a special three-layer fabric that is Thick, Strong, and Soft. Available in Unscented and Fresh Scent, they are the perfect addition to your changing table, car, or diaper bag. Convenient press-open lids make on-the-go changes a breeze!
Family Dollar's line of Kidgets diapers is also second to none. Family Dollar realizes that you want the best for your baby. That's why they developed Kidgets--a soft, absorbent diaper that's also a great value. With an ultra absorbent core, stretchable grip tabs, and cloth-like outer core, they are so sure that you'll love the Kidgets diaper that they offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee!
Check Kidgets Diaper and Wipes products out today--only at Family Dollar!
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Family Dollar.
Natalie
And even if your are a working mom or a part-time working mom those kiddos are expensive! So that's why we're always looking for the best deals. Here's my 5 tips on how to save money once having kids:
1) Eat at home more--of course when they are babies you don't buy them food at restaurants, but even just you and your spouse's meal can add up. We rarely eat at a restaurant unless it's somewhere quick and somewhere we don't have to tip. Plus if you make food at home you can have leftovers that you can use for the next day. Not to mention it's healthier to eat at home and less processed. We also have our own square foot garden to grow some of our very own veggies.
2) Shop for clothes in the off season. I can't tell you how many deals I've found by just getting next year's size for my boys. We're talking like $2 for shirt or pants. Sometimes I find that to be a better deal than shopping at a consignment sale, plus it's new!
3) Find free activities to attend in your community. I've mentioned before we have a store called that has featured events that are free. Also visiting parks and many other museums are free. I think a lot of people miss out because they don't know these events exist--I stay connected by receiving newsletters or from Facebook pages.
4) Shopping stores that offer variety--like Family Dollar. I find that a store that isn't just a "specific item" store has more of a chance to offer you a bargain on many products because they have variety and more buying power. Where I grew up, we only had a few stores and Family Dollar was one of them. We found many great deals there.
5) DIY it. I know sometimes it can be more expensive to do it yourself, but most of the time you can find better deals on the materials for the project. We have completed a lot of our home improvements ourselves including: renovating our kitchen (cabinets, tile, paint, sink, etc.), building our own deck, renovating our guest bathroom (new vanity, tile, towel bar, paint, and toilet). It's amazing the money we've saved and how much we have increased the value of our home.
Now if you do have a baby in the house...like me, with two in diapers here's a great product and deal from Family Dollar:
Introducing the newest addition to the family of Kidgets products: Kidgets Baby Wipes! Available exclusively at Family Dollar, Kidgets baby wipes are made with a special three-layer fabric that is Thick, Strong, and Soft. Available in Unscented and Fresh Scent, they are the perfect addition to your changing table, car, or diaper bag. Convenient press-open lids make on-the-go changes a breeze!
Family Dollar's line of Kidgets diapers is also second to none. Family Dollar realizes that you want the best for your baby. That's why they developed Kidgets--a soft, absorbent diaper that's also a great value. With an ultra absorbent core, stretchable grip tabs, and cloth-like outer core, they are so sure that you'll love the Kidgets diaper that they offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee!
Check Kidgets Diaper and Wipes products out today--only at Family Dollar!
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Family Dollar.
Natalie
Thursday, January 17, 2013
The Big Five Months
Dear Conley,
It's hard to believe you have been in our lives for a total five months. It really seems like we were just going to the hospital to have you.
These days you are rolling around and always watching your brother with a close eye. He really seems to entertain you.
Still no teeth yet, but you really have been feeling the pain of them starting to make their arrival. At your four month appointment you were 15 lbs and 5 oz and 25.75 inches tall. I am guessing you are over 16 lbs and 26 inches in height. You are still my little blondie!
We had some rough days over Christmas when you received your first cold courtesy of your big brother. However you did get over it pretty quickly. You made your first trip to visit my parents, and you actually slept most of the car right there. I wasn't really sure how it was going to work since Nolan wouldn't nap the whole time, but I guess by now you are used to tuning him out.
You are grabbing all your toys and of course then they go directly in your mouth. You now have inch worm skills which always leaves you to being at the top of the crib when I distinctly remember putting you at the bottom.
You are still my smiley guy, and it looks like the teething has given you a break for a few days. I know we are about to go through some major changes soon--sitting up, eating solids...then crawling. It's amazing how fast this first year goes by. We love you with our whole hearts and can't wait to see you and your brother play and grow together.
Happy Five Months to my little man!
Natalie
It's hard to believe you have been in our lives for a total five months. It really seems like we were just going to the hospital to have you.
Still no teeth yet, but you really have been feeling the pain of them starting to make their arrival. At your four month appointment you were 15 lbs and 5 oz and 25.75 inches tall. I am guessing you are over 16 lbs and 26 inches in height. You are still my little blondie!
We had some rough days over Christmas when you received your first cold courtesy of your big brother. However you did get over it pretty quickly. You made your first trip to visit my parents, and you actually slept most of the car right there. I wasn't really sure how it was going to work since Nolan wouldn't nap the whole time, but I guess by now you are used to tuning him out.
Happy Five Months to my little man!
Natalie
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
A Little Llama Llama Time
This week is bound to kick my tail, so while I have a few minutes I thought I would share these photos I found on my little camera from December.
We have a store here called "Smart Toys & Books" that hosts all kinds of events such as making an appointment to have a Santa photo OR visiting with Llama Llama. I don't know about your kids, but Nolan just loves the Llama Llama series. Here's a few action shots of the meeting:
Nolan just loved him, and well Conley was a little interested too.
And then here's some random shots when Nolan actually wanted to sit by his brother and "cheese." So I grabbed the camera quick and took advantage of the opportunity. Unfortunately, Nolan decided he wasn't into after about one shot. Oh well I suppose!
Natalie
We have a store here called "Smart Toys & Books" that hosts all kinds of events such as making an appointment to have a Santa photo OR visiting with Llama Llama. I don't know about your kids, but Nolan just loves the Llama Llama series. Here's a few action shots of the meeting:
And then here's some random shots when Nolan actually wanted to sit by his brother and "cheese." So I grabbed the camera quick and took advantage of the opportunity. Unfortunately, Nolan decided he wasn't into after about one shot. Oh well I suppose!
Natalie
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Solitaire-y Moments and a Giveaway!
I've read many posts this year about many of us making more time for ourselves. I know as a mom this "me" time can be very hard to come by.
So what do you do when you have a few spare moments?
I recently entered the smart phone era with my purchase of an iPhone 5, and let me tell you I feel like I've entered a whole new world with all the apps and cool gadgets.
One of my new app downloads is the Solitaire Deluxe App by Mobile Deluxe. I used to LOVE playing solitaire on the computer when I was a kid and even with real cards.
Now with this app, I can take those few solitaire-y moments in the car, waiting at a doctor's appointment, or if my husband has taken the computer hostage at night while the kiddos are sleeping.
It's a great way to pass the time and for me to help me feel like my brain has not completely gone to mush.
Solitaire Deluxe is an absolutely FREE download that you can "pick up and play" anywhere...even without an Internet connection.
Other fab features about the download? 1) It is a 4.5-star rated app in iTunes and Google Play, 2) includes simple tutorials for all 16 games, and 3) makes it super easy to find friends using Facebook connect.
Download your FREE Solitaire Deluxe game now!
And right now Mobile Deluxe is also offering an awesome giveaway to give you another reason to take out of your busy schedule to take care of yourself. They are offering a Clarisonic Prize Package!
Each Clarisonic PLUS Sonic Skin Cleansing System includes the following:
*Clarisonic PLUS
*Universal Charging Cradle
*Sensitive Brush Head
*Body Brush Head
*1 oz trial size Refreshing Gel Cleanser
*2 oz trial size Refining Skin Polish
It's so easy to enter, all you need to do is download the Solitaire Deluxe App--for iPhone (or go to the app store) and for Android. Then leave a blog post comment and fill out the rafflecopter below!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
***This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Mobile Deluxe. However, all opinions of the app are my own.***
Natalie
So what do you do when you have a few spare moments?
I recently entered the smart phone era with my purchase of an iPhone 5, and let me tell you I feel like I've entered a whole new world with all the apps and cool gadgets.
One of my new app downloads is the Solitaire Deluxe App by Mobile Deluxe. I used to LOVE playing solitaire on the computer when I was a kid and even with real cards.
Now with this app, I can take those few solitaire-y moments in the car, waiting at a doctor's appointment, or if my husband has taken the computer hostage at night while the kiddos are sleeping.
It's a great way to pass the time and for me to help me feel like my brain has not completely gone to mush.
Solitaire Deluxe is an absolutely FREE download that you can "pick up and play" anywhere...even without an Internet connection.
Other fab features about the download? 1) It is a 4.5-star rated app in iTunes and Google Play, 2) includes simple tutorials for all 16 games, and 3) makes it super easy to find friends using Facebook connect.
Download your FREE Solitaire Deluxe game now!
And right now Mobile Deluxe is also offering an awesome giveaway to give you another reason to take out of your busy schedule to take care of yourself. They are offering a Clarisonic Prize Package!
Each Clarisonic PLUS Sonic Skin Cleansing System includes the following:
*Clarisonic PLUS
*Universal Charging Cradle
*Sensitive Brush Head
*Body Brush Head
*1 oz trial size Refreshing Gel Cleanser
*2 oz trial size Refining Skin Polish
It's so easy to enter, all you need to do is download the Solitaire Deluxe App--for iPhone (or go to the app store) and for Android. Then leave a blog post comment and fill out the rafflecopter below!
***This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Mobile Deluxe. However, all opinions of the app are my own.***
Natalie
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
A Design Giveaway
Many of you have been so kind and had so many wonderful comments about my new blog design which makes me so excited to share this news with you.
Today is your lucky day because the lovely designer Tiffany of Tiffany Kuehl Designs is offering one of my lucky readers a $20 credit for her services!
I actually won this same credit from Sarah at It's a Vol and decided that was the push I needed to do a new blog design.
Tiffany's designs are always so clean and very cohesive. She was so super easy to work with, and we stayed in constant contact throughout the whole process. I can't wait for one of my lovely readers to have the same experience I had. Please browse Tiffany's design website to view her wonderful work and check out her personal blog too. I have really enjoyed reading about her adorable daughter Sydney.
This giveaway will end on Tuesday, January 15th at midnight.
Enter the rafflecopter information below, and good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Natalie
Today is your lucky day because the lovely designer Tiffany of Tiffany Kuehl Designs is offering one of my lucky readers a $20 credit for her services!
I actually won this same credit from Sarah at It's a Vol and decided that was the push I needed to do a new blog design.
Tiffany's designs are always so clean and very cohesive. She was so super easy to work with, and we stayed in constant contact throughout the whole process. I can't wait for one of my lovely readers to have the same experience I had. Please browse Tiffany's design website to view her wonderful work and check out her personal blog too. I have really enjoyed reading about her adorable daughter Sydney.
This giveaway will end on Tuesday, January 15th at midnight.
Enter the rafflecopter information below, and good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Natalie
Teething--A Mother's Curse
So you know how our house had the sickies for like a week? We have finally survived and are in the clear. I had some friends invite us to go play at the mall play area, and I thought heck no, not with two healthy children...I will not tempt the winter germs to attack my children. Let's be honest that little play area is a cesspool of germs!
Now we're dealing with Conley's teething. When Nolan was this age, he did a lot of whining. I remember thinking if I hear one more whine I just might stuff any object in my ear to block out the sound.
Now? Well I would gladly take Nolan's whining to Conley's loud crying. It is seriously so loud! And of course with teething comes the not napping and the not sleeping well. I could live with him being awake, but as of now if he's awake he's crying with his hands stuffed in his mouth as a chewing apparatus.
I know it's just a phase, but I'm thinking wow we've only got two coming in right now, and just 18 more to go! I think I need a glass of wine...maybe two...heck just give me the whole bottle.
Thank goodness my mother-in-law is watching the boys tomorrow evening. Time for a date night with the husband---maybe some mexican food and a margarita!
Natalie
Now we're dealing with Conley's teething. When Nolan was this age, he did a lot of whining. I remember thinking if I hear one more whine I just might stuff any object in my ear to block out the sound.
Now? Well I would gladly take Nolan's whining to Conley's loud crying. It is seriously so loud! And of course with teething comes the not napping and the not sleeping well. I could live with him being awake, but as of now if he's awake he's crying with his hands stuffed in his mouth as a chewing apparatus.
I know it's just a phase, but I'm thinking wow we've only got two coming in right now, and just 18 more to go! I think I need a glass of wine...maybe two...heck just give me the whole bottle.
Thank goodness my mother-in-law is watching the boys tomorrow evening. Time for a date night with the husband---maybe some mexican food and a margarita!
Natalie
Monday, January 7, 2013
Ready to Rock Out 2013!
Last year was a little crazy since most of the year was spent in expectation of having a new baby, then adjusting to life with a toddler and a newborn.
This year I am hoping for it to be a little less hectic, and not to have a baby or being pregnant in the year of 2013. I've read this a few times from my new moms of two--and I couldn't agree more! I really want to have time to enjoy my two boys as they are now.
I do feel that I did pretty well with my goals of 2012, and as I read many of my bloggy friends' goals I thought I should put my own in writing to keep me accountable.
Health:
I would like to continue our lifestyle of eating on the Primal Blueprint, and maybe with a little less cheating :)
Find a new workout regimen. My local Stroller Strides closed, so I've got get a new game plan to stay fit. I am still friends with the moms, and I think once it warms up we'll try to do some activities and workouts outside. I would be happy if I worked out twice a week but also stay active during the other days with going to the park with the boys and going on strolls/walks.
Financial:
Last year was a pretty costly year. We did tons of home improvements and landscaping---one of the main ones being replacing the siding and roof due to hail damage from April 2011. We had to pay out of pocket to do all of the siding since the back was only damaged, but since we already hated it we decided to just do it all. We bought land and a new car, so our savings took a pretty big hit. Oh and added a new member to the family. My goal is to SAVE, SAVE, SAVE. I have always been a huge super saver, but I'm going to really try to build our extra money back up to the way I think it should be.
House Projects:
Makeover our master bedroom. We have the new paint picked out, and I have already removed all our stuff into the closet so furniture can be moved. It's the one place in our house that really has not had any improvements to it besides new carpet--which now I don't even like.
Hobbies:
Photography-
I did learn a few new things about my camera, but I really want to go a little further with it this year. I do now have my own editing software that I've been using, so hopefully I will get even better at it. I want to be able to shoot more in manual mode.
Sewing-
I actually completed all the sewing projects I had on my to-do list last year. My MIL and SIL gave me tons of cute fabric for Christmas, so it's time to learn how to make some more projects. I have a DVD with instructions for all kinds of fun and cute projects. I would really like to have a present for all my family members completed for next Christmas. Oh and I do need to hem my bedroom curtains!
Scrapbooking/Photo books-
I need to do a scrapbook for Conley, and I just received a book for Christmas. I already have a photo book of his birth, but I do still like to have a scrapbook too. I also need to do another scrapbook for Nolan.
Reading-
Last year I had a goal of reading 30 books, and I came in at around 23. I would like to read all 30 this year.
Travel-
I would like to take one small trip as a family in early spring, and then a longer beach trip in the fall after Conley turns one. I am hoping he'll be walking by then. I can't believe I just typed Conley turning one!!!
And the biggest and most rewarding goal of all---loving and enjoying my boys and my husband! I want to make sure to enjoy the small moments and not try to rush to the next milestone for the boys and to make quality time for my husband.
I think 2013 is going to be a great year, how about you?
Natalie
This year I am hoping for it to be a little less hectic, and not to have a baby or being pregnant in the year of 2013. I've read this a few times from my new moms of two--and I couldn't agree more! I really want to have time to enjoy my two boys as they are now.
I do feel that I did pretty well with my goals of 2012, and as I read many of my bloggy friends' goals I thought I should put my own in writing to keep me accountable.
Health:
I would like to continue our lifestyle of eating on the Primal Blueprint, and maybe with a little less cheating :)
Find a new workout regimen. My local Stroller Strides closed, so I've got get a new game plan to stay fit. I am still friends with the moms, and I think once it warms up we'll try to do some activities and workouts outside. I would be happy if I worked out twice a week but also stay active during the other days with going to the park with the boys and going on strolls/walks.
Financial:
Last year was a pretty costly year. We did tons of home improvements and landscaping---one of the main ones being replacing the siding and roof due to hail damage from April 2011. We had to pay out of pocket to do all of the siding since the back was only damaged, but since we already hated it we decided to just do it all. We bought land and a new car, so our savings took a pretty big hit. Oh and added a new member to the family. My goal is to SAVE, SAVE, SAVE. I have always been a huge super saver, but I'm going to really try to build our extra money back up to the way I think it should be.
House Projects:
Makeover our master bedroom. We have the new paint picked out, and I have already removed all our stuff into the closet so furniture can be moved. It's the one place in our house that really has not had any improvements to it besides new carpet--which now I don't even like.
Hobbies:
Photography-
I did learn a few new things about my camera, but I really want to go a little further with it this year. I do now have my own editing software that I've been using, so hopefully I will get even better at it. I want to be able to shoot more in manual mode.
Sewing-
I actually completed all the sewing projects I had on my to-do list last year. My MIL and SIL gave me tons of cute fabric for Christmas, so it's time to learn how to make some more projects. I have a DVD with instructions for all kinds of fun and cute projects. I would really like to have a present for all my family members completed for next Christmas. Oh and I do need to hem my bedroom curtains!
Scrapbooking/Photo books-
I need to do a scrapbook for Conley, and I just received a book for Christmas. I already have a photo book of his birth, but I do still like to have a scrapbook too. I also need to do another scrapbook for Nolan.
Reading-
Last year I had a goal of reading 30 books, and I came in at around 23. I would like to read all 30 this year.
Travel-
I would like to take one small trip as a family in early spring, and then a longer beach trip in the fall after Conley turns one. I am hoping he'll be walking by then. I can't believe I just typed Conley turning one!!!
And the biggest and most rewarding goal of all---loving and enjoying my boys and my husband! I want to make sure to enjoy the small moments and not try to rush to the next milestone for the boys and to make quality time for my husband.
I think 2013 is going to be a great year, how about you?
Natalie
Thursday, January 3, 2013
You Say Hello, and I Say Goodbye...
I just wanted to say a quick "hello" and that I'll be out of pocket and have no internet access this weekend. We are finally traveling to celebrate Christmas with my family so keep your fingers crossed for a smooth trip. Some exciting news...From Corporate to Domestic is now on Facebook. Please "Like" the page below! Hope everyone has a great weekend!
Natalie
Natalie
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Christmas 2012
It's been nice to be on a bloggy break, but now with my new blog look I'm ready to jump back in! Christmas was a little challenging this year due to the fact both my boys started getting sick the Friday before the big day. Nolan bounced back a little quicker than Conley did...Conley did not sleep for almost four nights. I was so exhausted! On Christmas Eve, we opened gifts with my in-laws, and I think he probably cried through the whole event. I was at the end of my rope, but thankfully on Christmas he started getting better.
Since then I have received the same cold, but I am not over it minus the stuffy nose. Is it possible to have one child sick and not get the other sick? Nolan didn't get sick until he was a year old, but now Conley has been sick twice thanks to his big brother.
Here's a few photos of our Christmas, we still have to travel to my parents this weekend to celebrate. It was delayed due to the boys' sickness, and then my mom was sick.
Nolan really had fun ripping open presents. He kept saying, "More Nolan presents, more Nolan presents."
He enjoyed all his trucks and new trains. Somehow, Percy the train has already gone missing.
2012 was a big year for us---Conley was born, and my baby boy became an official toddler and turned two.
Can't wait to see what 2013 holds for our family!
Natalie
Since then I have received the same cold, but I am not over it minus the stuffy nose. Is it possible to have one child sick and not get the other sick? Nolan didn't get sick until he was a year old, but now Conley has been sick twice thanks to his big brother.
Here's a few photos of our Christmas, we still have to travel to my parents this weekend to celebrate. It was delayed due to the boys' sickness, and then my mom was sick.
He enjoyed all his trucks and new trains. Somehow, Percy the train has already gone missing.
2012 was a big year for us---Conley was born, and my baby boy became an official toddler and turned two.
Can't wait to see what 2013 holds for our family!
Natalie
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
A New Year, A New Look!
Happy 2013 my friends!
Take a look around, From Corporate to Domestic has a new look! All thanks to the fabulous designer Tiffany of Tiffany Kuehl Designs. She was so easy to work with and always quick to respond to my questions. She really is awesome, and I'm so glad we were able to work together. If you are looking for a new look for the new year, I highly recommend her services.
Stay tuned---Tiffany and I might have a giveaway very soon!
I'm very excited about the new blog design, and the fact that I finally have a grab button. So please grab away!
I'm also accepting sponsors for the first time ever. Please look at my new PR/Contact page for more details. And right now I'm offering the eight spaces for free! If you are interested, please leave a comment on this post with your contact information. I'll run your spot for the next 30 days.
Stay tuned for more exciting news coming up!
Happy New Year!
Natalie
Take a look around, From Corporate to Domestic has a new look! All thanks to the fabulous designer Tiffany of Tiffany Kuehl Designs. She was so easy to work with and always quick to respond to my questions. She really is awesome, and I'm so glad we were able to work together. If you are looking for a new look for the new year, I highly recommend her services.
Stay tuned---Tiffany and I might have a giveaway very soon!
I'm very excited about the new blog design, and the fact that I finally have a grab button. So please grab away!
Stay tuned for more exciting news coming up!
Happy New Year!
Natalie
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