tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28041241445413631632011-07-30T22:27:39.539-05:00Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comBlogger1101100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-40305363639338146602011-04-28T12:15:00.000-05:002011-04-28T14:10:41.863-05:00

When my hubby and I were first married, we cleaned the house together. While I can't say that we whistled while we worked, we did work well together. In retrospect, I chalk it up to the honeymoon phase. He did the tasks I didn't like (dumping the trash and cleaning the kitchen) and I did the tasks he didn't like (dusting, sweeping and vacuuming.) Unfortunately though, neither one of us liked

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-72561188240331858752011-04-13T11:05:00.001-05:002011-04-28T14:28:18.540-05:00

This past Sunday my oldest daughter had a soccer tournament. So we got up at 6:00 a.m., and left at 6:45 a.m. without eating breakfast, so we could drive 45 minutes to the soccer fields and unpack our chairs, cooler, soccer gear, diaper bag and stroller in time for a four-game tournament in 90+ degree weather. En route, after a minor stress bicker about running late (shocker!), we all rejoiced

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-68066523676610997932011-03-31T10:59:00.000-05:002011-04-28T14:12:11.010-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-89628443051823405882011-03-16T13:46:00.000-05:002011-04-28T14:18:54.624-05:00

If you're looking to save money on coloring books, here are some great free coloring pages to print! Coloring Pages of Disney Characters Winnie the Pooh Coloring Pages Tinkerbell Coloring Pages Zoo Animal Coloring Pages Disney princess coloring pages Rainforest Coloring Pages Jungle Animal Printables

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-9999128428299257522011-02-28T11:56:00.000-05:002011-04-28T14:34:32.728-05:00

I need my sleep. Unlike my hubby who can get five to six hours of sleep without any obvious physical or emotional repercussions, I need at least eight hours, preferably nine! So for the bulk of our marriage, I've been going to bed around 10:00 p.m., while my hubby has been staying up at least a couple more hours to get his "I time." This pattern all changed though when I started working from

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-17323985868788831252010-10-13T12:30:00.000-05:002011-04-28T14:02:54.851-05:00

With Halloween right around the corner, I thought it would be helpful to share some free pumpkin carving stencils. With the rising cost of costumes and candy, we need to save money where we can! Free Pumpkin Carving Stencils Playsational has some great free pumpkin carving stencils. Here are some good ones. Disney Pumpkin Carving Patterns Free Pumpkin Carving Stencils Scary Pumpkin

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-18851569424206771212010-09-06T12:43:00.000-05:002011-04-28T14:04:51.612-05:00

As a certified School Counselor and mother of four, I'm always on the lookout for great resources to help kids succeed in school. However, sometimes I get overwhelmed by the millions of websites to choose from! That's why I often rely on professionals and other parents I trust to recommend resources they like. So to return the favor, here is a resource for parents that I'm recommending. It's

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-15961220807026106382009-08-28T14:10:00.003-05:002009-08-28T15:10:27.626-05:00

My hubby and kids long ago accepted the fact that I'm a complete germaphobe! Now, without having to be prompted, my family walks in the door and immediately uses antibacterial gel to remove the germs from their hands. Even the neighborhood kids walk in the door and go straight to the counter to get some hand gel! Even so, I still can't stop myself from uttering the same question every day . . .

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-54689209505468383662009-08-07T10:21:00.006-05:002009-08-07T10:53:06.252-05:00

My dad recently gave my daughters his old laptop. They're thrilled to have it, but have been begging me to give them internet access on it. Frankly, I've been putting that off because I know I need to put some security measures in place, so they're safe from adult material and online predators, but I don't know how. Well, I didn't until Mom Central asked if I'd like to review the McAfee Family

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-45917941022399913362009-06-16T14:42:00.004-05:002009-06-16T15:31:01.326-05:00

Pardon the pun in the title, but I just couldn't help myself! I'm always looking for a fun read and Meeting Mr. Wrong: The Romantic Misadventures of a Southern Belle did not disappoint. This hilarious read is written by fellow Mom Blogger, Stephanie Snowe, who blogs over at Jason. For the Love of God . . .. With unchecked candor, Stephanie takes us on her journey through the world of internet

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-84159820554892273542009-05-27T11:41:00.004-05:002009-05-27T12:17:19.020-05:00

I know as the mother of four girls that lots of parenting issues come up throughout the years. And while I like to ask my friends and parents for their advice about certain situations, sometimes I need to look elsewhere for answers. But where? Sometimes I look in books, other times articles on the internet, forums and blogs. But now there's one place I can look to find the parenting answers I'm

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-30806087378943575932009-05-03T12:06:00.000-05:002009-05-03T12:06:01.034-05:00

It's crazy how busy we all are. * Busy working part-time and full-time inside and outside the home. * Busy parenting, chaperoning, disciplining, spending time as a family. * Busy driving to soccer games, girl scouts, music lessons and field trips. * Busy doing laundry, yard work, housework and grocery shopping. * Busy checking homework, signing permission slips,

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-89482398893352404312009-03-12T08:20:00.003-05:002009-03-12T08:40:29.195-05:00

I'm a big American Idol fan and I assert right now that this year's winner will be Danny Gokey! (Though I have to admit I think Adam Lambert will give him a run for his money.) That said, I was also a big fan of last season's American Idol finalist Brooke White. I think she's not only talented, but genuine. So when I heard she was supporting a nationwide effort to educate teens about flu

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-63195851134965588692009-03-05T10:30:00.003-05:002009-03-05T10:32:41.787-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-5090053253380007262009-03-05T10:29:00.001-05:002009-03-05T10:29:50.771-05:00

I believe maintaining work life balance is a universal challenge. In other words, whether you're working full-time, part-time, inside the home, outside the home, with kids or without, we all have experienced the stress of being overcommitted and the satisfaction of feeling on top of things, even if that moment is fleeting.That said, I'm very interested in what others think about work life balance

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-8384287124942495752009-03-05T10:19:00.000-05:002009-03-05T10:20:14.728-05:00

We've all heard the expression . . . "Time flies when you're having fun." However, I think we'd all agree that time flies when you're crazy busy too! I think that's why we're also familiar with the age old question "Where does the time go?"Well I discovered a tool on CNN.com to help answer that question! It's a work life balance calculator that enables you to find out exactly how you spend the

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-22362065011667801452009-03-05T09:53:00.002-05:002009-03-05T09:53:59.782-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-31763155608310560462009-03-05T09:46:00.001-05:002009-03-05T09:49:40.737-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-32374172226870161402009-01-20T10:23:00.002-05:002009-01-20T10:39:38.743-05:00

I am so thrilled that this Inauguration Day has finally arrived!!! While I hate to be divisive, I am ecstatic that George W. Bush will be leaving Washington D.C. today and returning to Texas. Phew! We made it! Now President Barack Obama can take our country in a new direction and I no longer have to cringe when our President is speaking in public or at all for that matter. President Barack Obama

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-36824528312108019092008-12-09T15:55:00.003-05:002009-06-01T11:56:19.098-05:00

A few months ago I shared that I think it's important to listen to the words of Thoreau and live the life you have imagined. While I don't know what Thoreau had in mind when he uttered those profound words, I know I always imagined being part of a big family. And since fate would have it and I am an only child, I knew I had to make that large family myself . . . well, with my hubby's help of

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-42880363125566128172008-09-17T15:13:00.002-05:002008-09-17T15:15:31.510-05:00

Know that T.V. commercial by Liberty Mutual that shows strangers helping each other. The commercial ends with:When it's people who do the right thing, they call it being responsible. When an insurance company does the right thing, they call it Liberty Mutual. Responsibility. What's your policy?Liberty Mutual Commercial from Mark on Vimeo.No, I'm not trying to sell you insurance. But since I'm a

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-7669149183337468682008-09-09T10:12:00.000-05:002009-03-05T10:13:37.848-05:00

Lately, I've been feeling overcommitted. Stretched too thin. Overwhelmed. Considering the summer was supposed to be down time, this is not good. Considering it's just the beginning of the school year for the kids and me as a School Counselor. . .travel soccer season . . . music lessons . . .girl scouts . . . organizing the church picnic . . . editing the newsletter . . . doing more freelance work

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-60801535003407078842008-09-04T10:14:00.001-05:002009-03-05T10:17:54.305-05:00

Today is the first day back to school for my daughters. While my neighbor thinks I should be overjoyed, I miss my girls already. Sniff. Sniff. But these are exciting times. My oldest daughter started middle school today and my middle daughter started third grade.And while I knew I wasn't being the cool mom when I ran barefoot across the yard with wet hair to snap these pictures, I knew better

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-72991101772020532142008-08-27T10:21:00.000-05:002009-03-05T10:23:18.088-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-30575545191918358262008-08-20T12:17:00.004-05:002009-03-05T12:41:45.273-05:00

I always like participating in MamaBlogga's group writing project, but this topic, The New Normal, is particularly timely because I've recently come to the conclusion that our fast-paced, jam-packed, long days are no longer the exception, but the rule.Many of you might be thinking, "Duh! What took you so long to realize that?"The answer is an ongoing stream of seasonal rationalizations that all

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-38253969893096009332008-08-20T10:25:00.008-05:002009-03-05T10:27:58.069-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-48270701203104262872008-08-02T10:33:00.000-05:002009-03-05T10:36:25.975-05:00

The first week of August is Simplify Your Life week. Considering I was born the first week of August, I feel it is my destiny to help others simplify their life. Okay, okay. Destiny is a strong word. Perhaps it's just a freak coincidence that I write a work life balance blog and was born during Simplify Your Life week. Either way, I decided today I would share ten ways to simplify your life.Ten

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-28842300762522284842008-07-28T14:01:00.002-05:002008-07-28T14:05:13.060-05:00

Yes, this is my blog about work life balance. And each day, five times a week, as often as I can, I share my thoughts on work life balance and any tips or strategies I’ve found that work for me. But even I can get sick of me! So I thought it would be fun to start a series of posts that share what famous people have to say about work life balance. Yes, even the multi-million dollar celebrities

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-72684512895093322602008-07-24T10:41:00.000-05:002009-03-05T10:45:19.405-05:00

I was talking to my hubby last night about my experience at this year's BlogHer conference. While I had dozens of anecdotes to tell him, I started by sharing the primary lesson I learned . . .It's all about relationships.While I knew the importance of relationships when it came to my personal well being, and believe it's not just the thought but the effort that counts in friendships, I didn't

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-66172527920310241852008-07-16T13:23:00.002-05:002009-03-05T12:49:02.392-05:00

It's challenging these days to fit in a lot of "quality family time" with such hectic schedules, but that's all the more reason why it's so necessary to strengthen family ties.One of the simple ways my hubby and I bond with our daughters is to start the day with a "family cuddle." Our children delight in yelling to each other, "It's time for family cuddle!!!" Then the five of us pile into our bed

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-57778625316439597512008-07-16T10:46:00.000-05:002009-03-05T10:47:58.879-05:00

Another great memory from the annual trip my Dad, oldest daughter and I make to see the Red Sox play at Fenway Park every year! My middle daughter and hubby don't go because of our long-standing family rivalry. My youngest daughter is the tie breaker, but I know which way she's leaning!

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-31878965086674136172008-07-10T11:24:00.001-05:002009-03-05T11:28:14.721-05:00

Maintaining work-life balance is a daily challenge and some days are definitely better than others. So I started paying attention to the days I felt balanced and asked myself . . .What am I doing on these days that makes me feel balanced?The answer was exercise.Mind you, I'm not big into exercise, but understand it is a necessary evil to stay physically healthy. So I do pilates to help with my

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-65909215778826141502008-07-10T11:16:00.001-05:002009-06-01T12:02:26.566-05:00

Yesterday I tried to cram in all of the tasks that should've been done over the long weekend: Sort the kids clothes (yes, I'm still doing that dreadful chore), clean out the garage, load after load of laundry, clean the refrigerator, and complete the school forms that have been on my counter for a week, not to mention the work I want to do.Instead of doing those tasks over the weekend, we . . .

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-62252033349131730622008-07-09T10:51:00.000-05:002009-03-05T10:52:14.225-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-46799978049546348502008-06-28T10:54:00.000-05:002009-03-05T10:55:29.840-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-1713758918932463082008-06-25T18:52:00.003-05:002009-03-05T13:15:29.421-05:00

I'm Type A with a capital "A". I like my plans, my structure, and chore lists for my kids. I'm lost without my Palm Pilot, color-coded calendar and to do list. I wake up each day and plan in my head what I need to do and want to do. The only thing I go with the flow on is when I get my work done.I used to be a firm believer in work before play. But that all changed when I started working from

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-3235448667986932572008-06-24T10:57:00.000-05:002009-03-05T10:58:29.829-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-35493307298697682202008-06-20T11:20:00.005-05:002009-06-01T11:53:21.683-05:00

One of my readers friends read my post about how the to do list will always be around, but your kids won't and asked me the following question in her comment because she knows we're planning on having a fourth child: Do you ever worry that having another baby will just be more to do and less time to do it? She went on to add: I would love one more, but think sometimes I can't even keep

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-62132453382387631402008-06-11T11:03:00.000-05:002009-03-05T11:04:06.790-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-43745888192517358882008-06-04T11:11:00.000-05:002009-03-05T11:15:00.858-05:00

This past weekend my daughters and I ran our first 5K in the 30th anniversary of the Freihofer's Run for Women. More than 3,000 women showed up to demonstrate the force of girl power! Here are the three of us crossing the finish line.Yes, both my girls beat me! I was so proud of them!!!

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-21411074912783844232008-05-28T11:22:00.000-05:002009-03-05T11:24:09.813-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-33404438585925153622008-05-22T12:15:00.003-05:002009-03-05T13:27:43.876-05:00

Every day I struggle with balancing the work I want to do with the work I have to do.I want to work on each of my blogs and on building my business.I have to do the laundry.I want to hang out on Twitter.I have to pay the bills.I want to submit photos and look at others' photos on Flickr.I have to unpack this stinky pile of wet, dirty clothes from my daughter's camping trip.I want to read my

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-46811833949204846512008-05-22T12:09:00.003-05:002009-03-05T13:30:03.903-05:00

I believe actions speak louder than words. So instead of just saying that I want work-life balance, I do things to try and make it happen, like frequently stopping during the day to play with my toddler who flits around me as I work from home.But do thoughts speak louder than actions?What I mean is that while my body is achieving some level of work-life balance, my mind is not. In other words,

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-14677949133558058682008-05-21T11:57:00.000-05:002009-03-05T11:59:23.659-05:00

My seven-year-old daughter is the only girl on her travel soccer team. She frequently shows those boys what girl power is all about when she dribbles circles around them! :)

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-63252406489737025132008-05-14T12:01:00.000-05:002009-03-05T12:01:57.910-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-59920665481550235282008-05-12T11:08:00.003-05:002009-03-05T13:32:14.093-05:00

There are definite pros and cons to working at home. While we all know I'm a "believer in balance," today I'm going to focus only on the cons of working at home. (To be true to my moniker, I'll write about the pros another day. :)) Today, it's all about the cons. Well, actually, just one con really . . . work at home moms don't get sick days! We don't get paid vacation either, but I said I'd

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-9289910193352934012008-04-30T12:09:00.000-05:002009-03-05T12:11:23.304-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-71433319951611568202008-04-23T12:16:00.000-05:002009-03-05T12:17:53.375-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-59294646328733136882008-04-22T14:21:00.003-05:002009-03-05T12:22:53.675-05:00

Growing up, I was always excited about going on vacation. Where are we going? When do we leave? Are we there yet? All I had to do was hop in the car and count "punch buggies" (Mom! There's another Herbie!) until we arrived at our destination. Three kids later, vacation is still fun, but getting ready to go, getting there and getting back are almost enough of a hassle to skip the vacation

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-91067339577655371972008-04-15T09:23:00.005-05:002008-04-15T09:47:19.880-05:00

The day has FINALLY come for me to be able to show you my new blog home!!! Thank you all so much for your patience. The moving process took a lot longer than anyone anticipated. Doesn't it always? But now I'm all settled in and invite you over to the new Believer in Balance! Where I have wonderful roommates and the best landlord ever Wendy Piersall. So while I'll always have fond memories of

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-25117634946162695912008-03-25T09:16:00.004-05:002008-03-25T09:31:55.875-05:00

I just wanted to check in and let you all know that I'm still here! Literally. I haven't been able to move my blog yet for reasons beyond my control. The website I'm moving to is in a state of metamorphosis and we're still in the pupa stage over there. While I'm reluctant to give yet another timeframe for the relaunch of Believer in Balance, I'm really hoping that we'll be butterflies by next

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-43605527228953316132008-03-03T10:48:00.006-05:002008-03-09T17:50:23.092-05:00

Dear Believer in Balance blog,I'm so sorry I've been neglecting you. It's not that you haven't been on my mind. In fact, I have a lot of posts for you. It's just that while you've been patiently waiting for me to come home, I've found a new place for you and I to live. I'm sorry you're the last to know. I know moving can be stressful, and change can be hard, but I promise you'll love your new

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-86506636746467143982008-02-21T10:22:00.011-05:002008-03-11T19:38:37.776-05:00

My seven-year-old was absolutely giddy last night about the lunar eclipse. It was so adorable! She kept reminding us all day that we had to look at the moon between 9:45 p.m. and 10:01 p.m. "Mommy, can I stay up late tonight, PLEASSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSEEEEE!""How about I wake you up when it's time?""Can I sleep on the couch?""Deal." Always the negotiator!While she understood what an eclipse was,

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-17245355337653785832008-02-13T09:55:00.009-05:002008-05-22T19:58:47.419-05:00

Although Turbo Tot had an immediate and acute reaction when she had peanut butter, I still needed to take her to an allergist to confirm she had a peanut allergy. Even though I was such a baby when she got her blood drawn, and knew they'd stick her with more needles at the allergist's office, I wanted the testing done. I needed to not only confirm she had a peanut allergy, but I needed to see

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-44583070637323520242008-02-13T08:34:00.003-05:002008-03-09T17:24:49.415-05:00

I go to throw away the lint from the dryer and come back to find Turbo Tot like this! Man, she's quick!

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-67519759632657283292008-02-11T15:07:00.003-05:002008-03-11T19:39:00.690-05:00

>> >>

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-39059887379398301202008-02-07T20:45:00.006-05:002008-05-22T20:00:48.763-05:00

Today I had to take my baby to the hospital to get her blood drawn. Although I chose to go to the hospital because the lab personnel are experienced drawing blood from babies, I felt anxious as I pushed her stroller through the doors of the hospital. I kept reminding myself she's not sick, my baby just has a potentially fatal peanut allergy. When I checked in at the desk, the receptionist asked

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-80213159100883109232008-02-06T14:04:00.002-05:002008-03-09T17:24:29.434-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-27453029174665867332008-02-04T08:39:00.004-05:002009-06-01T12:13:31.898-05:00

Yesterday at lunch we had quite a scare. While we all sat around the table chatting, I looked over at Turbo Tot in her high chair and immediately asked with a sense of urgency,"What's all over her face!"My hubby was sitting closest to her, but I could see from across the table red blotches all over her face. When I got up to take a closer look, the conversation that took place moments before

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-56393593087190536462008-01-29T06:57:00.002-05:002008-05-13T08:42:54.741-05:00

Once again MamaBlogga's group writing project has me thinking. When the topics were . . . Three Things I Want My Kids to Remember Motherhood is . . . An Emotional Rollercoaster RideThe Best Thing About Having a TweenI'm Grateful for My Children Because My thoughts came freely. This time the topic is "Me Time" and my thoughts are a jumbled mess. Why is it so much easier for me to express my

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-45417221415836307562008-01-17T09:11:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:33:10.863-05:00

Since today is Turbo Tot's first birthday, I'm going to share photos of her from one year ago today and the first twelve months of her precious life.

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-13296497157452401442008-01-16T10:17:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:38:29.032-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-89497047026712418272008-01-04T10:19:00.006-05:002008-03-09T18:42:31.713-05:00

I'm desperately trying to restore some order around my house! While I managed to get all this stuff put away, I'm still trying to find the island in our kitchen which is covered with school forms, old homework, mail, catalogs, crumbs, Christmas cards, appointment reminder cards, my old calendar, my new calendar, returned Christmas cards I have to resend, receipts and dozens of post-it notes to

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-70777384714312410422007-12-21T10:48:00.002-05:002008-03-06T20:20:16.697-05:00

My baby is ten years old today and I'm in a melancholic state of disbelief. It's not like I didn't know her birthday was coming. But it wasn't until we sang Happy Birthday to her this morning and we ended with "Are you one, are you two, are you three..." that it hit me how many years of her life have come and gone. As we sang and asked which year old she was, I actually pictured my Sweet Angel at

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-79652922091763485882007-12-18T14:31:00.002-05:002008-05-13T08:44:54.868-05:00

Today I got to help out my second grade daughter's class with their annual Christmas activity. (I say "got to help out" because the teachers only let a few parents come in to help and I was lucky enough to land one of the coveted parent volunteer slots!) However, after I responded immediately that I wanted to help out, I was informed it was the school's policy that parents can't bring in their

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-76239596342211603732007-12-12T10:06:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:41:01.103-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-71672659350151846792007-12-05T09:15:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:41:33.504-05:00

My girls walk hand in hand in search of the perfect Christmas tree.I found it! Let's get this one!No, I found it! Let's get this one!Uh, girls. Have you decided yet?

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-1885999201239051232007-12-04T16:35:00.003-05:002008-05-13T09:39:29.926-05:00

I was planning on posting about something else today, but I have to share the conversation I had with my girls a few minutes ago. They just ran off the bus and came inside. Before their backpacks hit the floor, Feisty Girl shouts to Sweet Angel . . ."What is this about you doing a sex project?" "I'm not. That's just the rumor going around," Sweet Angel responds calmly."Okay, Mom, we're going

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-21242296555958878202007-11-28T09:37:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:42:09.624-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-53281879502484497442007-11-21T07:47:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:42:41.204-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-34172965087501431582007-11-13T13:42:00.002-05:002008-05-13T09:36:20.549-05:00

This is the second in a two post series about what went wrong at Girl Scout camp this year. Here's the first harrowing story if you missed it.Both my seven-year-old (Feisty Girl) and nine-year-old (Sweet Angel) participated in this year's Girl Scouts camping weekend. When I say participated, I mean that Feisty Girl's troop was too lame to stay overnight and Sweet Angel's troop almost lost her in

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-73121966849789759662007-11-07T09:13:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:43:53.266-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-28416119481381386652007-10-31T08:27:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:44:31.738-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-3091374482044613202007-10-29T10:40:00.003-05:002008-05-13T09:33:16.274-05:00

The Red Sox have won the World Series for the second time in four years! The last time was in 2004. Before that, well, there was a little bit more of a gap between World Series wins. 86 years to be exact. Up until 2004, generations of Red Sox fans waited almost nine decades to see what my nine-year-old Red Sox fan has seen twice in her lifetime already! When I share with my daughter that some Red

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-7009546905501949332007-10-24T08:47:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:45:02.803-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-66396288376752025012007-10-23T08:34:00.003-05:002008-05-13T09:02:23.059-05:00

This is the first in a two post series about what went wrong at Girl Scout camp this year! I couldn't fit it all in one post!Two of my girls are in Girl Scouts, but only Sweet Angel gets to sleep overnight at the annual Girl Scout Encampment weekend. This is not because Sweet Angel is a Junior Girl Scout, but because Feisty Girl's troop is lame, overly cautious. Frankly, I hate camping, but feel

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-17447647648333175882007-10-17T09:00:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:54:05.856-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-8452187899740592152007-10-16T08:05:00.002-05:002008-05-13T08:29:10.520-05:00

I always love participating in MamaBlogga's Group Writing Project. This month's theme was "The Best Things About This Age." We were free to go in any direction as long as we focused on our children. I have three girls, ages 8 months, 7 and 9, and I can say without hesitation that I've loved all the ages so far. But when my first born started moving out of the baby phase, I was worried. Would I

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-33439158458198453052007-10-10T08:16:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:53:42.636-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-1543409233138213472007-10-03T09:29:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:53:04.174-05:00

After we captured this feat on camera, we promptly packed this toy away!

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-84229327745498101522007-09-26T08:15:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:51:53.301-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-40353600850176188112007-09-19T07:56:00.002-05:002008-03-06T15:47:20.684-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-56626183419335239802007-09-18T09:07:00.003-05:002008-05-13T09:29:47.133-05:00

Say Goodbye to Super Pooper . . . Hello Turbo Tot! Yes, the day has come to change my baby's blog name. Although she's only eight months old now, and technically not a toddler, no one has told her that. * So at 6 months she pulled herself up to a standing position. * At 6 1/2 months she started cruising around the furniture. * At 7 months she started walking with a walker toy. * At 7 1/2 months

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-49592780277464247162007-09-12T07:50:00.002-05:002008-03-06T15:46:44.165-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-7533727671420365592007-09-06T11:18:00.003-05:002009-03-05T12:37:00.641-05:00

Motherhood is an emotional rollercoaster ride with all the highs and lows, twists and turns, and nauseating moments you get from the one at your local amusement park. However, unlike your typical two-minute ride, this one lasts a lifetime and begins moments after you pee on a stick.Hop in and I'll share a seat with you on my rollercoaster ride so far!* When I found out I was pregnant, I was

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-75374010315244109122007-09-05T09:12:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:46:20.453-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-81628616391861065392007-08-29T08:32:00.001-05:002008-03-06T15:45:51.194-05:00

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-9583232294449085702007-08-23T19:31:00.003-05:002008-05-13T08:39:45.462-05:00

I have to vent! (It's days like these that I regret committing to BlogHerAds not to use profanity on my blog.) Anyway, Sears has screwed us...again. The worst part is, I should've known better. A few months ago after the fiasco with our kitchen appliances, I swore I wouldn't spend another dime in that store. That vow lasted until my dryer broke. It's not that I'm a masochist, it's just that we

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-86300528066718459212007-08-20T11:57:00.005-05:002008-05-13T09:22:41.276-05:00

We had quite the girlie weekend! My dear friend of 32 years came to visit with her daughter and niece. For those of you following along at home, that means we had seven girls here! To say my hubby was outnumbered, doesn’t begin to cover it. We had makeup, glitter, dancing, an excessive amount of Love’s Baby Soft (remember?), American Girl dolls and High School Musical too! For girls between

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-66084560605457199222007-08-13T18:44:00.003-05:002008-03-11T19:37:14.960-05:00

About five years ago, my hubby did an ice breaker activity at one of his annual meetings. He asked each of his staff “Where is your favorite place on earth?” He then shared that his favorite place is Bermuda, our honeymoon spot.Later that night, he asked me where my favorite place on earth was. I said, without hesitation, Seymour Pond on Cape Cod. Several years ago we started going to Seymour

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-2346900817397252932007-08-06T15:25:00.002-05:002008-03-11T19:37:29.321-05:00

I've been coming to the Cape for over 35 years. Every year we do the same thing. By choice! We love our traditions. We swim at our beach, bike to the Country Store, kayak across Hinkley Pond, get ice cream at Emack and Bolio's, have lunch at the Captain's Table, read in the hammock, and play games. But this year, I'm doing something I've never done before. I'm blogging. Although the Cape is where

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-39600776443637628152007-07-23T20:59:00.002-05:002008-03-11T19:37:45.636-05:00

We’re a close family. We’re supportive of each other. We’re a cohesive unit. Except when it comes to baseball. Then we’re a house divided and it gets ugly.You see, I’m a Red Sox fan and my hubby is a Yankee fan. Fortunately, we didn’t talk baseball while we were dating, because who knows how far our relationship would’ve gotten. When our daughters were old enough, we gave them the choice. Sweet

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-2508545251150449342007-07-17T20:11:00.002-05:002008-03-09T18:43:52.849-05:00

Sweet Angel lost her tooth at a slumber party over the weekend. She called me immediately and I ran up the street to congratulate her. We discussed whether we should put her tooth under her pillow at the party or wait until she came home the next day. Sweet Angel decided to wait. The next night she placed her tooth under her pillow and drifted off to sleep. When she woke up the next morning, she

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-21683812150999968862007-07-12T10:17:00.001-05:002008-03-06T20:03:40.038-05:00

The Fish Killer (a.k.a. Wonderful Husband) is gone. No my hubby hasn’t left me. The fish have. The last two died. Surprise. Surprise. For those of you unfamiliar with my hubby’s serial fish killing, click here to find out just how many fish he has killed in the last two years. Click here if you want to add the neighbor’s fish to the total! My girls have gotten used to it, but I still feel bad. So

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-6892776651187369712007-07-10T10:03:00.001-05:002008-03-09T17:34:45.595-05:00

My girls are fortunate. Fortunate to be healthy. Fortunate to have loving parents and grandparents. Fortunate to have lots of friends. Fortunate to have more than enough toys, games, books, clothes, and Webkinz to keep them happy. That’s why I jumped at Liz's opportunity to participate in a random drawing to receive a first class lemonade stand created by Sunkist. Not because my girls needed

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-13749789708344114262007-06-15T08:49:00.001-05:002008-03-09T17:36:30.887-05:00

I’m an embarrassment to my kids already. Well, one kid actually . . . Feisty Girl. I knew the day would come, but didn’t think it would be so soon! I also thought my oldest daughter would be embarrassed first, when she was a teenager. Not my middle daughter, who’s only six! I don’t take it personally; I know it’s to be expected. So I’ve been preparing myself for the day when they wouldn’t want to

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-1266166941560193242007-06-10T17:15:00.001-05:002008-03-06T19:53:45.155-05:00

Today my hubby and I celebrated our 12th wedding anniversary. Super Pooper was also baptized today, so June 10 is now a special date for us for two reasons. However, I want to dedicate this post to my hubby and share with you just some of the many reasons he truly is a Wonderful Husband.• He calls me “Beautiful” as a term of endearment, even on the days I look my worst.• He calls me from work

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-31437552467966784522007-06-04T11:27:00.001-05:002008-03-09T18:04:40.275-05:00

In order to balance out my last post that was way too long, here is a short diddy inspired by my conversation this morning at the bus stop with two other mommies who, like me, are desperately hoping the rain will mean no soccer, softball or baseball tonight. Rain Rain, Please Please StayNot Another Evening GameAll the Mommies Want a DayThey Don’t Have to Rush Away

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-83239361079617302932007-05-17T13:10:00.001-05:002008-03-09T17:49:26.409-05:00

Two months ago I didn’t even know what a blog was. I was bidding on freelance writing projects and one of the employers required applicants to set up a blog account. A what account? Is that like PayPal? So I went to blogger.com as the job posting directed. Although I didn’t sail across the ocean in a tall ship, or rocket into the final frontier, I knew I had a discovered a whole new world.

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2804124144541363163.post-76815897312139287732007-05-14T10:06:00.004-05:002008-05-13T08:52:31.691-05:00

We have two full bathrooms upstairs. One large one for me. One smaller one for Wonderful Husband and our three daughters. Although Super Pooper isn’t in there showering or brushing her teeth yet, her two foot stinky diaper genie is in there so my hubby definitely “senses” her presence. I don’t call him my forever man for nothing! While this arrangement may be unfair, I can say for a fact that one

Believer in Balancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16670001245662238855noreply@blogger.com