And Then You Were Seven Months...

My baby boy is quickly growing up...I can't believe you will be a year before I know it.

His days are full of smiles and bright eyes.

Observing everything around him...

Reaching and playing with toys...

Giggles and toes...

Blonde hair and chubby cheeks...

(A comparison of the boys both at 7 months)

Happy 7 Months little guy!  We love you so much!

Natalie

Winter Be Gone!

Is it me or does anyone else think the groundhog lied? I mean it was snowing here today which is unheard of for March.  And now that I have kids---winter seems to get to me more because we are trapped inside so much.

Nolan definitely gets stir crazy, and even the baby seems to get bored.

And lately it seems like everything involving them is a challenge.  You know the usual meals, diaper changes, baths, nap times, bed times, and everything in between.

I just want to scream, "Why does everything have to be a battle?  Why does it have to be difficult?"

I'm sure it's the fact that I'm still dealing with this sinus infection and the kiddos are fighting the remaining parts of their colds.

I just feel like if I hear one for whine or cry that I just might lock myself in the closet and throw away the key.

The good news is the husband and I did have a MUCH needed date night on Saturday.  After the baby didn't nap all day, I was more than happy to hand him over to Grandma.  We had a great time, and it was just what I needed.

Are you having the winter blues too and ready for spring?

Natalie

Getting to Know You

I've seen many bloggers doing this, so I thought I would jump on the boat.  Lately, I've seen some new faces around here and would love for your to introduce yourself.  What's your name...and why did you start blogging...or what is your favorite thing about blogging?

I started blogging right before Nolan turned 5 months...that seems like a lifetime ago!  Never would I thought two years later I would have two boys or have such a great blogging community.

Here's a few fun facts you might not know about me:

1)  I want three kids.  When I was growing up, I always thought just two.  But as I got older I liked the concept of having a big family.  Would we want a girl?  I would happy with either...and honestly I love being a boy mom and that's what I know.  So three boys would be great, or I could learn new ropes with 2 boys and a little girl.

2)  I was class president of my senior class from high school.  I had to plan our senior trip, and we went to New Orleans!  We were the first class to actually fly somewhere.  Crazy I know...but the administration fought me tooth and nail about that.  Looking back it's crazy to think I just looked online and dealt with a travel agency.  I am also responsible for planning our class reunions, and we had our 10 year a few years ago.

3)  I was very involved in my sorority at college, and I participated in our Greek Step Show all four years. We were horrible my first year, but I had no idea because I was a freshman.  We won 2nd and Best of Show when I was a junior, and first place when I was a senior.

4)  I ran track in high school and jumped hurdles.  I did both the 110 and 300 meter hurdles, but the 300 meter was my favorite.  I ran all four years.  I also played volleyball and basketball---but volleyball was my favorite sport.

5)  When I was a working professional in the good ole corporate finance world, I earned my way to our big "Fast Start" which was basically a work conference and fun in a different city.  I was able to go to Boston for the first time and attend a Red Sox game, go to Seattle and experience Pike Place Market, and to Orlando where we rented out a part of Universal Studios one night and stayed at Disney.  Man those were the days...all expenses paid!

6)  My husband and I used to stay up late in a computer lab in college and play a game called "Text Twist."  You've probably seen games like this where you have letters and have to come up with as many words as possible.  We loved that game...and confession I have an app on my phone that we sometimes play now.

7)  I used to play the piano and took lessons for 7 years and participated in many recitals.  I played "Canon in D" in one of my last ones, and one of my favorites is "Moonlight Sonata."  I haven't played in awhile, and I hope to one day have my own piano and be able to teach the boys.

8)  I really, REALLY want to go to Bora Bora one day and stay on one of those huts on the water.

9)  If I order a dessert, you can bet your bottom dollar it will be something chocolate.

10)  I have been on two cruises and really want to go on one of the Eastern Caribbean.

Now it's your turn!  Please introduce yourself even if you haven't been a commenter. I would love to meet you :)

Don't forget to join us over on Bloglovin since Google Reader will be going away in July.

Natalie

The Luck of the Irish

This weekend was a tough one...Nolan had been sick all week and had missed school.  He then proceeded to get Conley and I both sick.  Nolan was waking up several times a night with a coughing attack where it would basically make him throw up.  Conley had a cough that sounded like a seal and wouldn't nap most days.  And I also had a horrible cough with all kinds of congestion.  Every since I have had these boys I feel like I'm on the verge of a sinus infection after I am sick.  Not sure what is up with that, but while I was pregnant I was basically snotty the whole time.  I am guessing I still have after effects.

But last night, Nolan slept through the night without any coughing fits, and Conley slept pretty soundly too. Let's hope we are on the up and up because these sickies are no joke.  Nolan usually has a pretty strong immune system---but this cold was a doozy.

Now onto "The Luck of the Irish"...we don't do anything particular for the holiday but we are Irish, and both the boys have very Irish names.

Here's a few photos of us sportin' the green! (Sorry if you have already seen these on IG)

Not a lot of photos of Nolan, due to the fact he was Oscar the Grouch yesterday.  Conley and I did have an outing of just the two of us to the grocery store.  Lovin' my new mint capris I just bought and my coral toes!

Nolan and I did a four-leaf clover hand print that I was inspired by from Erin's St. Patrick's Day crafts.  We also continued with our learning poster which was all about rainbows, and we also painted and colored some rainbow printouts.

I wished we had felt better because the weather here was absolutely gorgeous!  Nolan did go to the park with Daddy, and we were able to plant some of our new plants.  Now I need to work on my square foot garden ASAP.

Can you believe it's almost Easter? I am looking for some easy crafts to do with Nolan, so if you have any send me a link!  He's having his party at school this week because they are on "spring break" next week.  I signed up for some snacks, and I found some cute little baskets that I am going to fill with goodies.  I'll be sure to take a photo to share with you guys.

How was your GREEN weekend?

(Are you following on Bloglovin? Don't forget Google Reader is going away in July, so be sure to follow us there!)

Natalie

The CROODS...Coming Soon!

Have you seen the previews for the new DreamWorks movie called The CROODS?  As soon as I saw it, I knew it would be a great one to see!

THE CROODS is a 3D comedy adventure that follows the world's first modern 
family through the journey of a lifetime. When the cave that has always been their home 
is destroyed – with the rest of their world not far behind it – The Croods are forced to set 
off on the first family road (or path) trip. Rocked by generational clashes and seismic 
shifts, The Croods discover an incredible new world filled with fantastic creatures, and a 
future beyond any they imagined.

The Croods soon realize that if they don’t evolve…they’re history.

Now it's your chance to win the fun plush toy from the movie---Belt the loyal sloth who accompanies Guy, and your very own movie poster!

I can't wait for the release on March 22nd...here's the trailer preview:

Just enter the Rafflecopter giveaway below to win Belt and the poster for your child.

Disclaimer: I received a plush toy and poster as compensation for this post, but all opinions are my own.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Natalie

Yesterday Was One of Those Days...

Yesterday was one if those days...you know the ones where you are better off staying in bed with the covers over your head?

I should have known when the day began with a huge poopy diaper from the baby, and a wet bed from the toddler that I should have ran for the hills. Oh how I loathe changing a crib mattress sheet!

It was a relatively quiet morning...Conley went down for his nap with no problems.  Oh did I mention Nolan has a cold and his nose is running like a faucet?  He still is trying to run around which causes him to cough---which causes him to throw up so I'm trying to keep him on the couch with a little bribery AKA Mickey Mouse.  The child requested to watch, "The Quest for the Crystal Mickey" like 6 times in a row.  Thank goodness for my DVR!

The day stay started to unravel when Conley refused to take his afternoon nap and was not happy doing anything.  Either it is teething or he's starting to fight the sickies...whatever it was made him not a happy camper.

I put him in the swing which he protests the whole time and get dinner started.  Then Nolan wakes up, and Conley starts crying louder.  This causes me to forget to put the basil on the ham and tomato pie...which I don't realize until 10 minutes AFTER it's been in the oven.

I try to aspirate the snot out of Nolan's nose which causes a meltdown because he hates it.  I can't blame him...but geez would be nice if toddlers would learn how to blow their own nose so you didn't have to chase and tie them down to use the aspirator.

I have already tried to feed Conley but he will not have it...and still crying.  I figure maybe he'll take the bottle better.  Then I proceed to spill my pumped liquid gold.  Oh this is just freakin' awesome.

Then I notice my throat is on fire---and then I come to the realization I am getting sick.  Just GREAT.  I don't have time to be sick!

Finally at around 8:30 and both kids are in bed I curl up next to the husband to watch reruns of Duck Dynasty.

So here is to another day my friends...pray that I fight off this snot and sore throat that is trying to overtake me.

Oh and on top of everything Google announced they are getting rid of Google Reader, which is how I follow your lovely blogs.  I am trying out Bloglovin, so you can follow me from there.

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

How do you keep up with your blogs that you follow?

Just Two Years Ago...

It's hard to believe that just two years ago I started this little blog of mine.  I wasn't sure how I would like it or what I would actually write about.  What would I write?  Would people read?

But now, I couldn't think of my life without my blog.  I have met the most supportive ladies throughout this journey, and it always amazes me how some of my bloggy friends are so kind and generous.  They have nothing to gain---it is just pure kindness and thoughtfulness that they share with me.  And for that...I thank you.

You've helped me through the beginning of being a new mom, a SAHM, and one that is not very domestic.

You've ranted and sympathized with me...and told me motherhood is hard, and it will be alright.

You've watch me transition from a new mom of one, to a mom of two.  You've shared your wisdom and support when I didn't know how I was going to manage them both.

You've watched my first born become a toddler.

You've watched my second son grow and grow...he's not a little baby anymore.

You've sent cards and gifts for my boys...I never in a million years thought some online friends could have such big hearts.

So today I want to thank you all, but also some special folks who have been there with me from the beginning.

Alison from across the world in Malaysia was one of my very first followers and has always offered great advice and wonderful writing for me to read.  We also have two young boys, so it's been great to have someone who is going through the same experiences.

Jessica has also been there from the beginning.  I have watched her blog grow and change and have loved every minute of it.  From quilting to martinis, from gardening to home schooling, this gal has skills!

The Workaholic Momma has also tagged along these past two years.  We've joked that we were bloggy twins, and that we should set up an arranged marriage for our children.  She was even so kind to send Conley a super soft towel with his name on it.  It was actually the first gift I received with his actual name on it.  I'm so happy that she will be adding another little girl to her family!  Now we can arrange a marriage for our second borns.

Amanda has sent me and the boys home made birthday cards...I remember receiving them and thinking how can someone who hasn't met me be so thoughtful?  Because some people are just geninunely good people and will go out of their way to be nice.  Amanda is one of those people who loves to put a smile on your face.

Rach is one that we have emailed back and forth about homemade baby food, cloth diapering, toddler learning, MDO, and many many other topics.  I have enjoyed having someone to share this motherhood journey with and so glad she's having number two baby as well!  She also was so sweet and sent Conley the sweetest little outfit.  You people just amaze me with your generosity!

Ashley is also one that I swapped boy mom advice back and forth.  I'm so excited that she just added a little girl to her family!  Not only is she busy with a newborn, she's also behind the New Orleans Moms Blog.  I've loved learning more about the Big Easy!

Sherri is also a long time follower, and I love reading about her favorite meals, books, and her DIY style.  I can just tell through her blog she is a genuinely kind person, and I think that's why I like her so much.  She also has an awesome sister, Lauren who is super crafty.  I didn't even know they were sisters, and I was already following both blogs!  I love reading about their family.

Then there is my book nerd friend Shell.  I'm sure many of you know of her because she is a huge blogger, and has her hand in everything.  But you would never know it...she has always been so kind to me by referring me to GoodReads, loaning me books through the Kindle...and this May I get to meet her for the first time.  And you know what?  She's sending me home with a whole stack of books!  She has always taken the time to answer any of my questions, and I think that my friends is why she is such a good blogger.  She is someone you can relate to, and one who is not afraid to help out others even when she's really busy.  So excited about meeting you!

And the gal who really helped me start blogging, and even helped with the name is my IRL friend Laura.  I won't go all mushy on you because I know how you are about these things, but I can't say enough how I value our friendship.  You are truly my best friend and someone that I can always lean on.  Even though I may already know what is going on in your life, I really enjoy reading your blog.  I look forward to reading it when I see you have a new post up, and it always makes me smile because you are so honest and really put yourself out there. That's why people in the blog world are drawn to you because you are not afraid to show the real you.  You're a talented writer, and I'm always impressed with how you are able to write with humor and sarcasm.  That's not an easy thing to do!  I'm so excited to watch our boys grow up together.

And to my best college gals-Sarah, Kristy, and Beth who told me to start a blog and who supported me throughout this journey.  Hope we can get together this summer!

And to all my favorite fellow mommas--Emily, Emmy, Jenn, Katie, Tatiana, Sara, Ashley Paige, Erin, Cam, Sarah, Samantha and so many more!

There are many, many others that have touched my life but I know this blog post would get too long and you guys would stop reading.  So here's to you all!!!!  Thanks for making this blog experience the best!

HAPPY TWO YEAR BLOG ANNIVERSARY!

Natalie

Splish, Splash!

Recently I had ran out of my baby shampoo/wash that I use for the boys. We were currently using Aveeno, but I really wanted to try something all natural on the boys.

I was so happy when I was contacted by BabySpa to try their products, and I quickly put the products to work to see how the stood up to our previous brands.

I was worried that because it was so "natural" that the smell wouldn't be as nice as some of the mainstream shampoos.  Boy was I wrong!  The scent is by far my favorite of any baby shampoo I have tried.

The really cool thing about BabySpa is they have different stages of shampoo for your growing child.

Stage One- Newborn to Crawler--This collection is especially formulated to naturally care for the extra-sensitive skin in newborns through crawler.  Each one of our unique ingredients is carefully chosen to address these skin care needs during a phase when the majority of your baby's time is spent indoors, cuddled in your arms, under comfy blankets, or crawling to his favorite toys.  Our Stage One products feature patented Swiss moisturizers and soothing ethnobotanicals in gentle blends designed to support and strengthen the natural balance of your baby's delicate skin.

Stage Two- Walker to 4+years--As babies start taking their first steps, a whole new world opens up to them.  Your curious little one will soon spend a great amount of time exploring the fun outdoors, at the playground, the beach or the pool.  These environments expose your baby's developing skin to various external factors such as heat, wind, sun, and snow, which pay cause dryness and irritation.  During these milestone years, it is important that your active toddler or preschooler receives protections from UV rays, as well as proper moisture and complete skin care support to enhance his overall health.  Our Stage Two collection is especially formulated with vitamin-rich botanicals and natural SPF boosters that provide long-lasting nourishment and hydration to your toddler's hair and skin.  Featuring refreshing and invigorating blends, this stage is the perfect match for your little one as he enjoys the outdoors.

BabySpa uses all natural ingredients and you can find the full list here.  However, you will not find these ingredients that you find in most baby shampoos in BabySpa:

***Paraben FREE
***Phthalate FREE
***Sulfate (SLS/SLES) FREE
***Poyethylene Glycol (PEG) FREE
***Mineral Oil FREE
***Bisphenol A (BPA) Free

If you are already using a product like California Baby, I think you find that the BabySpa products are lower priced.  Check out their store to find out more about getting some shipped your way.

As you can tell, Nolan was a fan!  We are going to make the switch to BabySpa in our household, and I strongly encourage my mommy friends to check it out.  I don't think you'll be disappointed!

Disclaimer: I received a BabySpa Stage One shampoo, however all opinions of the product are my own.

Natalie

Toddler Busy Bags

I am lucky to be part of an amazing mom group here in town.  We began our connection by joining our local Stroller Strides group, and after the franchise closed we still continued our friendships.  Our group consists of twelve moms, and children from the ages of two months to almost three years old.  The youngest is actually a second baby to this mom and then Conley is the next youngest.  Currently, three other moms are due with their second babies, so it's been so helpful to have others going through the same experience of having two young children.

These ladies have been unbelievable throughout this motherhood journey and especially leading up to the birth of Conley and after.  We do Mother Night's Out at different cool restaurants, we do weekly play dates  text to meet up when the weather is nice to go to the park, and when someone is having a baby we bring them meals and use the online website Take Them a Meal.

A few nights ago, we met up to make Toddler Busy Bags because one mom was going to make one for her daughter, and she figured why not invite the rest of us.

So we all brought some food and wine and chatted it up while making these AWESOME toddler activity bags. Here's my loot (10 bags) and also the Pinterest links for the activities.

Nolan loving the Brown Bear matching game:

Button Snake:

Source: engagingtoddleractivities.wordpress.com via Natalie on Pinterest

Lacing Cards:

Source: megancamille.blogspot.com via Natalie on Pinterest

Magnetic Pom Poms:

Source: bubblesandbobbins.com via Natalie on Pinterest

Popsicle Color/Shape Activity:

Source: costcuttingcreations.blogspot.com via Natalie on Pinterest

Brown Bear Matching Cards:

Source: 1plus1plus1equals1.blogspot.com via Natalie on Pinterest

Pool Noodle Lacing:

Source: thecraftlifters.blogspot.com via Natalie on Pinterest

Clothespin Number/Color Match Game:

Source: teachmama.com via Natalie on Pinterest

Make a Pizza:

Source: playcreateexplore.com via Natalie on Pinterest

Clothespin Color Matching Game:

Source: momtriedit.net via Natalie on Pinterest

So far the games I have tried with Nolan have been a huge hit!  We all voted on the games to narrow down what we would make.  As the kids grow, we'll make some more that have more difficulty.

And always remember you can follow me on Pinterest to see more Toddler Learning Activities that I have been pinning!

Natalie

My Little Loves

If you follow me on Instagram, you might have already seen these photos.  I just couldn't resist sharing them!  I am so glad I have my iPhone now because it really allows me to catch these precious little moments.

That smile steals my heart every time!

Conley and I waiting for big bro to get up from his nap.

And this last one?  I cannot tell you how much I love this photo.  I had sat Conley there because I was changing Nolan's diaper for bed.  Once done, Nolan wanted to sit next to him.  He grabbed a book and started reading it to Conley (or you know saying it from memory.)  It was the sweetest moment between my two favorite little guys.

I can't wait to watch them grow and become best friends.  They will forever have my heart.

Natalie

Toddler Learning

Recently, I started a weekly learning session with Nolan.  My friend Rach from Life Ever Since referred me to to this link.

We are on week five, and I am very happy with it.  I start it every Monday, and review the theme of the week, vocabulary word, number, letter, shape, color, and nursery rhyme with Nolan.

This program has supporting songs, rhymes, books, and coloring pages to support the learning theme of the week.

It also gives you the freedom to do different activities and to take it wherever you want to go.  I like having this link for a lesson plan because it helps hold me accountable.  Before I used it I knew that I wanted to set aside to teach Nolan, but I didn't know where to start.  This helps give me a base, and then depending on the theme I can adjust to my teaching style and Nolan's learning ability.

He really enjoys it, and every time he sees it he will start naming everything.  Please ignore my poor drawing skills...I really had no idea how hard drawing an octagon could be!

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Happy Friday and Happy Learning!

Natalie