Monday, November 23, 2009

Gobble Gobble!

It seems like when we were all a bit younger, that the feeling in the air this time of year was electric. I think that feeling was probably tied to the number of days left before a "break" at school - but I distinctly remember "that feeling" each year. The older I get, the more and more holidays creep up on me vs. that huge buzz of excitement leading up to each holiday.
I know I have always been one of those people who builds events up to be more in my imagination than what they traditionally turn out to be, but I am really looking forward to sharing the holidays with Tatiana.

This week is our big Thanksgiving celebration. My grandfather was one of seven brothers and essentially all seven families still get together. It's a great tradition that I love. I can't wait to see the little T bopping around the hall with her cousins like I did when I was little.

I have been trying to explain Thanksgiving to T a little bit everyday. It's difficult to explain the concept of "thankfulness" to a three year old! We talked about being thankful for family, friends, being healthy, etc. And then we also talked about the traditional Thanksgiving meal. I think the two thoughts got crossed because when I asked her later what we'd eat for Thanksgiving she said "turkey, and stuffing and family!" Baby steps .... baby steps!

Here's some pre-holiday pictures of T...


Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Deal of the Century

I am going to say it -- this whole economy thing stinks. I am incredibly thankful that I have a job and benefits right now as I watch those around me struggle with a "recession". We may not be at "depression" levels, but it certainly is depressing! This past weekend I watched as the house next door to me sold (at auction) for essentially 1/2 of what I bought my house for just shy of 5 years ago. I guess we'll be staying put for a while!

So in these troubling times, or even if it's not troubling times, I love a great deal! I stumbled across a blog the other day of a lady who is really dedicated to saving money and bargains. This one is so good... I have to share!

Interested in 50 FREE (yes, I repeat FREE) photo cards? Any theme - including Christmas... etc. It's so free you don't even have to pay for shipping AND there are no tricks - they don't even ask for your credit card info.

Here's what you need to do...

1) Go to seehere.com
2) Create an account - harmless, no personal info other than the basic address, email etc.
3) Create a photo card - choose your theme, picture and text
4) Order 50 and add to your cart
5) Enter promo code "freebies4mom-1109" (no quotes) and watch as the total goes to $0!

That's it! Seriously! I always buy my Christmas cards on December 26th the year before... but these may get added to the card as an insert. I mean -- they are free!

Enjoy!

Friday, November 6, 2009

Finally! Pictures from Halloween!

I am giving animoto one more chance. And I am still not thrilled... it cut out 1 picture, but still, you can get a good idea of Halloween in our house last weekend!

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

A New Venture...

I am working on (or at least planning on working on) a recap of October events. October flew by and there were so many fun events in Miss T's life!

However... in the meantime, I started brainstorming on my ride across my great state tonight. I know - a scary premise! In the past few months, I have enjoyed reading other mom's blogs. I have learned A LOT. I also like talking with other mom's and getting different perspectives. So I am considering starting another blog - for busy mom's. Like you, like me.

First topic. What Christmas presents are you planning on for your little ones this year? (If that's the sort of thing you celebrate) Or -- what was one of your favorite presents you gave in the past? Leave a note here, drop me an email or however you prefer. If you have specific brand/item names and gender/age appropriateness, I'd appreciate it, because I'd like to have a list of ideas for those moms (and dads!) looking for great suggestions.

Thanks in advance for any ideas!!