Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Wordless Wednesday

This is of my step-son and nephew on our wedding day, November 17, 2005. This picture just captures their innocence and I love the natural light.

Bumbleride Queen B stroller giveaway

Enter to win a Bumbleride Queen B Stroller from MomDot. Just stop by MomDot where you’ll find this great giveaway and more mom blogger reviews. Contest ends March 31st.

Melanie

Gonna Make Tuesday Tasty!


My husband had a real gratin a month or so ago when we went to a restaurant downtown. I've had it before in different ways and I love potatoes of almost every variety so, I of course love them. Hubby fell in love and he's really picky. I found this recipe courtesy of Tyler Florence and it looks delicious. I will probably adjust mine to remove the nutmeg since I'm not a fan. I know it's only supposed to be an essence and to accentuate the cream but, meh.

Easter is coming up, may be a nice side dish to add to your table!

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 sprig fresh thyme
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Butter
2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/8-inch thick slices
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan, plus more for broiling
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
In a saucepan, heat up the cream with a sprig of thyme, chopped garlic and nutmeg.
While cream is heating up, butter a casserole dish. Place a layer of potato in an overlapping pattern and season with salt and pepper. Remove cream from heat, then pour a little over the potatoes. Top with some grated Parmesan. Make 2 more layers. Bake, uncovered, for 45 minutes. Sprinkle some more Parmesan and broil until cheese browns, about 5 minutes

Winner-It's Hip Hop Baby!

According to random.org our winner for It's Hip Hop Baby! is
23. smoran69 said...
Things we do everyday
Congratulations! An email has been sent and you have 48 hours to respond to me for your prize.
Melanie

Monday, March 30, 2009

The Curse Of The Whiney Toddler

Ahhh, someone save me. I don't mind crying nearly as much as I mind whining. My two year old wants to constantly be on me and wants to whine about everything!

She is in between the stage of speaking everything and just learning how to speak. She puts short sentences together but, with most two year old children, she can't tell you why she is frustrated or mad or happy or sad.

Daily it's "maaaaama" this and "uhhhhh" that. I make her use words as often as I can but, that's her go to. UGH!

Since she is already verbal, I can't wait until she gets to the point where a words goes in the place of a whine. I love the toddler stage. So much to learn and explore. This is one of those subjects along with "no" that I could do without!

Simply Breastfeeding DVD-REVIEW

I was one of those moms, determined to breast feed for many reasons. I ended up with a C-section, premature baby and medication in my system that my baby couldn't have, as my birth story. My little daughter was fed with a bottle for the first three days of life.

That really threw me off my course but, I was still determined to nurse. I had never pictured myself *not* doing it for her. Especially when I knew that I would be home with her instead of going back to work immediately. On the third day, my milk came in and I was in the clear to breast feed my daughter. It seemed like an easy enough thing to do. Wrong! I was still pretty medicated, my daughter was tiny and I was engorged. My daughter had a decent latch but, wouldn't stay awake for her meals and was spitting up all of the formula that she was being fed with.

After we got home, I settled in and continued to nurse her. It really took me about 4 to 5 weeks before my daughter was nursing consistently without me having to pump some of her meals. It was frustrating at times but, again, I was already sold on the idea.

I just watched this video, Simply Breastfeeding-The Criso Method on DVD. I had heard about Shari's video and asked her if I could watch it and review it. Even though I breastfed my first, it didn't mean I couldn't learn anything for when we decide to have another baby. I have to say I was surprised at how thorough Shari was. This educational video was filmed in a classroom setting, and is simply Shari and a few students learning the importance of breastfeeding. In it's simplest terms, that's what it's about. It's not this big movie production that's there to entertain.

Shari is a CNM, MSN, and IBCLC. In layman's terms she is a nurse, certified nurse midwife, and a lactation consultant. She is very thorough in her explanations and reasons for her subjects. Shari has been doing this for awhile and you can tell she has a confidence level to back her teachings up. She makes it so you can take her "class" and learn from her even if you're not in the same city she is in. She is a hard sell on breast feeding. She goes over proven studies as to just how important it is to at least try to give your baby the nutrition your body was made to give. She also feels that it's important to be fully committed or face giving up easily when it's tough.

The DVD covers every detail you can possibly think of regarding breast feeding an infant. American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines, benefits, challenges, how much they need from birth to a year or more, changes in the body regarding hormones from pregnancy to milk production, positioning, latching, nipple soreness, fore milk, hind milk, pumping, using a bottle, growth spurts and cluster feeding and so much more!

I read a lot of things about breast feeding before I had my daughter. I thought I was pretty knowledgeable since I had done that and nursed my own daughter until she was ten months old. I did learn a few things from Shari that I hadn't heard or didn't really know. I was always fuzzy about how much a baby really needs to eat those first few days and Shari shows an exact comparison via a bottle as to how much a baby can tolerate at a feeding and how much you actually produce in the first few days. I also didn't know that it was a myth that a C-section has no bearing on how quickly your milk will come in. That is determined by the placenta being removed and the transition of hormones in your body. I was surprised at how much I did learn and that's why this review is so complete. Shari really knows her stuff and knows how a woman's body works and how they are made to feed our babies.

You can get her DVD through her website mybabyexperts.com for a very reasonable price. Check it out!

Friday, March 27, 2009

Twilight Tide Pettiskirt GIVEAWAY!!!!

Twilight Tide Pettiskirt GIVEAWAY!!!!

My Two Year Old Shaking Her Booty

I sang this song to her and danced with her a few days ago. Now, daily, she asks me to "shake booty" ha ha. She is such a funny girl. By the way, I used to shake my booty to the same song as a little girl. Think she's gonna take after me?

Freaky Friday-Speed cameras

I know, this really isn't a "freaky" subject unless of course you take into account the fact that you are being watched while driving the freeways surrounding the Phoenix metro area and more of the privacy we once had is now gone.

I have been in a funk ever since those cameras were rolled out here in the Fall. I have lived out here almost 13 years and "knock wood" have never received a speeding ticket. I drive on average on the freeways, five to ten miles over the speed limit. Which by the way, is generally going with the flow of traffic. I don't drive crazy and switch lanes a million times or run red lights either. I absolutely loathe driving on the freeways here now. As if the traffic congestion wasn't bad enough, now I have to deal with everyone going an average of five miles under the speed limit because they don't want a 200 dollar ticket. Then, there was the time that I almost rear ended someone going 60 mph on the SR51 because the guy directly in front of me slammed on his brakes because he didn't want a ticket. Now tell me that isn't causing a problem all on it's own?

It's no secret that these cameras were not put in place to protect the lives of AZ families but, to put money into the pockets of the government. I just read an older Wall Street Journal article confirming that the cameras are used as "a means of generating revenue". Just the same as when a government is in a decline financially, they tend to have their police write more citations.

The verdict is still out on whether or not the cameras improve safety because people slamming on their brakes can cause accidents and there was only a "modest" improvement on side impact crashes in some areas where there were cameras placed for red light running.

I don't like them period.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Wordless Wednesday-First Birthday 12/26/07


Tuesday, March 24, 2009

WINNER-Photofiddle $50 gift card

random.org true random number is-70!!
Donna said:
I would like the Charcoal Sketch of my family. donna444444 @ yahoo.com
Congratulations! I'm sending you an email right now. You have 48 hours to return my email.
Thanks to all of you who entered
Melanie

Monday, March 23, 2009

Tiny Tag Designs-Customer Service KUDOS!

I had the pleasure of winning a contest in February, and the prize was a little girls heart shaped silver pendant with my daughter's initial on it. Adorable anyways and I know, super popular right now!

My information was sent to Melissa Clayton, the owner of Tiny Tag Designs. Some time went by and I received an email from her directly inquiring if I had received the necklace I won. I advised her that I hadn't and she said she would send it right away.

Another week or so went by and I hadn't received it so I emailed her and she apologized profusely, didn't make much excuse but, had been busy. She advised that she had finished my necklace and would be sending it out immediately. She also offered an additional item at no cost for the wait. I advised her that it was up to her if she wanted to do that and thanked her.

So, as you're reading this you may say, "she made you wait, so how is this great customer service?". Well, my answer is that I have worked in the service industry for many years. I have heard excuses and complaining alike. I have dealt with people who have a sense of entitlement many times over. The true heart of service is what remains with me.

At my previous job I was asked to read Raving Fans. If you've ever read it you know what I'm talking about. Melissa has made me a raving fan. I won this necklace, I didn't pay for it and yet she made good on it and then some. She was concerned about my experience.

I received the necklaces and they are DARLING! There's a ball chain on one and a sturdy box chain on the child's necklace. I purchased a hand stamped washer necklace from someone on Etsy and the quality wasn't that great. Melissa's are small and cute. They are clean looking and perfect for multiple discs if you don't want a bunch of stuff cluttering your neck. Personalized is the thing to have now and she grabbed it by the reigns.

And, if that's not enough kudos for her, she also does this as a one woman show basically while caring for her husband and two children. That's deserves an added THANK YOU from me. I am a woman with an entrepreneurial spirit as well and am always excited to see a woman successful at doing what she does as well as trying to be there for her family.

This may not be an "official" review but, it's a review from the heart. Please take a look at her stuff. What's the worst you can do? Buy something?!

See Kai Run-Review AND Giveaway*CLOSED*







I was the proud recipient of a pair of See Kai Run shoes a while back from a blog contest. I hadn't heard of See Kai Run before I was introduced to the world of blog reviews. I now understand the power of blog reviews! I was amazed at the choices and the fact that all the major details were handled with these shoes.

See Kai Run was created and developed by a mom for children. When it comes to moms they ARE the "mother of invention". Moms know that little feet need to breathe, they need flexibility when learning the new skill of walking and that they need to be able to take shoes on and off easily.

Their shoes are darling for both boys and girls. They have bright colors and patterns as well as simple designs to go with anything. When they say "buttery soft" leather, they aren't kidding. I felt it when my shoes came in and it's enviable ha ha. I would love to have a pair of shoes so flexible and comfy! They meet the American Podiatric Medical Association standards and were given a seal of acceptance.

Let's face it, they aren't Big chain store shoes. They are urban, modern and fresh. They are fashion meets quality. They aren't cheap shoes that you're gonna buy for every outfit. If you're gonna invest in something for your young children, good shoes is one of those things you should be investing in. The health and structure of your child's foot is gonna be important for the rest of their lives.

We were able to review a pair from the new line of shoes named Dorothy. They are black and white and will be worn for the Spring and Summer around here being in AZ!




Buy It

New Styles have been released and they are gonna be perfect for Spring and Summer! There's a sale on select styles that ranges from 25 to 40% off!

Win It

See Kai Run has been generous enough to offer a pair of shoes in winner's choice from the See Kai Run or smaller line!!!

Rules

Tell me the pair of shoes you would choose if you are the winner! If you aren't a blogger you are still welcome to enter. Please leave me an email address so that I can contact you if you win. If I don't have a way to contact you, I will be selecting another winner.

U.S. and Canada only

Extra Entries:

2 extra entries if you sign up for their mailing list. If you are already signed up please leave me a comment letting me know that you are and what email address you signed up with.

Leave a separate entry for all that you do so you get all your entries.

Contest expires April 6, 2009 11:50 PM Arizona time

Coconut Groove CD-Review AND Giveaway*CLOSED*


When I first heard about the Coconut Groove CD, I had not heard of Nicholas Deysher or his other previous CD's before. I was excited to learn more though because I love music and my daughter loves music. I try to find interesting, exciting music for her to enjoy while being kid appropriate. I also don't want to listen to something that's going to grate on my last nerve while she's enjoying it either. ha ha.

I got the CD and since I was home I popped it in right away. The Hello song came on and both my daughter and I started moving. It's a really catchy, fast paced song that makes you wanna dance and laugh. I listened intently to the rest of the CD and was pleasantly surprised at the variety of music, the education within the songs, and the sound. It truly does have an island "feel" to it.

Nick Deysher has been making music for most of his life, and has attained a Master’s Degree in studio music production and film scoring. He was a preschool teacher for awhile and began educating through music. He was such a hit, the parent's and children wanted his music on CD. He released his first album, One Man Band in 2001 and followed that up with In The Nick Of Time in 2003. In 2005 Nick moved from Boston to Coconut Grove, FL and created his company In The Nick Of Time Music.

I have also enjoyed looking through Nick's blog http://bathtubsinging.blogspot.com/ and seeing his views on music, education and things that make him laugh.

Buy It

Buy a Cd or download MP3 from here http://cdbaby.com/cd/innickoftime

Win It

Nick is being generous and offering one of his CD's to a lucky winner! Even better, he said he would autograph it! How exciting.

Rules
You must go to In The Nick Of Time website and tell me a favorite song, or fact listed on the site. Not something I've listed here please!
If you don't follow the rules, your entry will not be considered. Please leave your email address so you can be contacted if you win. You don't have to have a blog to enter.

U.S Entries only please

Giveaway ends April 6, 2009 11:59PM Arizona time

Saturday, March 21, 2009

I've Been Tagged Again!

Holly my Sister-in-Law from The Bartlett Bunch and Rebecca from Our Little Family has tagged me to list five random things about myself. Let's see if I can do this without repeating myself from the last tagging. Heh

1. I have no tattoos and only my ears pierced. Besides a belief that I shouldn't do it, I feel like an individual now because there are so many tattooed and pierced people that I'm now almost the minority

2. I never went to college or university or even a trade school because I could never decide or "lock down" what I wanted to do professionally. The only thing I ever wanted to do was be a mom. That's not to say that I wasn't a professional in what I did. I didn't have a child until I was 31 so I had plenty of work to do before then. ;)

3. I love asparagus! ha I love it grilled and roasted or steamed. Add some garlic in there and I'm in heaven. Most people I know aren't fond of it but, it's so versatile to me and so very yummy.

4. I am a Coke addict! No, not the kind you snort. I don't have many addictions but, I can tell you I rarely miss a day when I don't have some, if even just a little. When I do go without it, I miss it. ha!

5. I've been told by more than one person that I'm a great gift giver. Not that I'm super extravagant or anything like that, it's just that I enjoy picking out just the right one. I won't give someone something random unless I barely know them. I take my time window shopping for just the right little gift to cheer someone up and brighten their Birthday or whatever. I'm the same way with cards. If I can't find a card with a sentiment that says what I want it to say, I will fill one out myself with a blank card. I think it's important to make your friends and family feel special and it's always nice to know someone cares enough to think about your like and dislikes. I know I LOVE it when I get a special little gift or card in the mail!

Friday, March 20, 2009

Welcome Ultimate Blog Party People!

Ultimate Blog Party 2009

Hello everyone, I'm Melanie and welcome to my blog! I started this blog to keep my online friends up to date with the happenings of my life and family, and later to update my family out of town.


In the last couple of months, I have eased into the review/giveaway arena because it looked like tons of fun! It HAS been lots of fun, and I'm enjoying networking with so many wonderful businesses and people.

If you look to the right of my blog, you will see windows for both my Etsy and Art Fire shops, KaiLei Designs. I am currently making home decor frames from recycled and unfinished frame bases and decorating and/or painting them. Please check it out when you have the chance.


I am married, just over three years now and I have one daughter and a step-son. They make life fun and interesting. I am currently a stay at home mommy, and I love it. Such a blessing especially in these times, to be able to do. Blogging helps me stay in touch with adults while taking care of a toddler during the day. I even get to talk to my friends that are just a few miles away :)

I have the most awesome friends and church community. They're the reason I stay here in the desert. After living here 13 years, I could say the only place I'd dislike more is one that snows as much as we have heat! I am where I want to be so I can't complain...too much ;)

Here are some pics of myself and my family-

My husband and I




My daughter and step-son

Thanks for coming by. It will be so nice to meet as many of you as I can!

My top 5 prize wish list-

1. USC35-hotslings sling and nursing cover
2. 89-gc to Homegoods

3. 58-Kitchen aid artisan mixer from moms who think

4. 56-Surprise art supplies-kv creative designs

5. 19,21, 0r 22-$50 Target gift card from shoot-me-now Agoosa or Beginner baby blog

Freaky Friday-Cat found in $27 couch


I saw this earlier in the week. According to MSNBC, a woman from Spokane, WA bought a couch for $27. After taking it home, the woman heard mewing and couldn't figure out the source until her boyfriend felt the cat underneath the couch as he was watching television.


They found a very hungry little calico inside the sofa. The woman took the cat to the animal shelter that she worked at to get the cat well again and contacted media outlets to find the owner.


The owner contacted them and was reunited with his cat who had disappeared around the same time as the donation of the sofa occurred. Very interesting that no one would figure out that the mewing had come from inside the sofa. Ha ha. You gotta wonder sometimes!


I know this wasn't too strange but, I got a chuckle out of it and am glad the kitty cat was reunited with it's owner. A happy ending is always sweet.

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Tasty Thursday-Buffalo chicken wings


I got this recipe from an e-cookbook menu that was forwarded in my email. My husband loves buffalo wings. I alter this type of recipe a little bit. I don't usually add margarine but, I know it makes it better and I usually bake about 12 to 15 wings in the oven at 400 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes depending on how hot your oven cooks.

2 lbs. chicken wings (disjointed − discard the tips)
1/4 Lb. Margarine (do not use butter!)
8 Oz. "Frank's" Hot Sauce (also labeled as
Durkee Hot Sauce. NO SUBSTITUTIONS!!!)
Oil for frying
1. Melt margarine in sauce pan until barely liquid.
Add hot sauce, mix, and put aside.
2. Deep fry wings until brown and crispy. Remove
and drain on paper towels.
3. Put wings in a large bowl that has a cover. Pour
sauce over all, cover, and shake to coat the wings.
Serve with celery sticks and Blue Cheese or Ranch
Dressing.
Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your desire.

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

No!

Apparently, that's all my two year old knows how to say lately. I honestly think she was a late bloomer in this aspect of toddler hood. Some friends and online friends of mine, have told me their children were saying it at a younger age.

I suspect my daughter will be O.C.D. on some level. She is technically a firstborn since her brother is 7 years older and lives with his mom. She is very particular about being clean and doesn't like to be dirty. She had a stomach virus last weekend and insisted on having a Kleenex, paper towel or baby wipe with her when she threw up. My kid is only 26 months old.

I ask her what she wants to try and give her some choices. I will give her a choice of certain things to eat, wear, etc. I have been hearing a lot of "No's" lately. Do you want to watch this? "no" Do you want to take a shower? "no". This is one of those phases that I could do without but, I understand that to a toddler, the world is their oyster and they want control!

I love that she is independent and strong willed because that can be used for so much good. It's my job as a first born, strong willed, independent mommy to teach her what's important in life and how to pick your battles.

Winner!!! Milkshake CD,DVD and comic

Unfortunately, the first choice left no way for me to contact them so I had to choose another.

12

furygirl3132 said

I am also following you on Blogger.

Eloise
furygirl3132[at]comcast[dot]net

Congrats! Thanks for entering and you have 48 hours to contact me to claim your prize. An email has been sent

Melanie

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Wordy Wednesday-Cherry Blossoms




A little background, I love cherry blossoms and wanted to work with a medium that I've never worked with so I bought acrylic felt and drew up a little pattern for a blossom. I cut out the blossoms and sewed little stamens on with a chocolate brown embroidery floss. I painted the branches on the canvas with an acrylic craft paint and attached the blossoms with hot glue. I love how it turned out, especially since I'd never done anything like it!

St Patricks Day With A Little History Thrown In

I'm not Irish and if I am, it's the smallest amount of all of me. I do recognize the holiday by wearing green, which also happens to be my favorite color. I don't do the green beer or partying but, I think it's fun to dress the part. Must be the woman in me?!

I looked up St.Patrick to see what all the hub bub was about and some of the things I knew over time and some things were a little surprising to me. St.Patrick's day was a religious holiday back in the day. Not surprising since it's an Irish national holiday celebrating a saint. Traditionally, "Saint Patrick's blue" was worn to associate St.Patrick but, the term "wearing of the green" was long associated with Irish nationalism and/or loyalty to the Roman Catholic church. Some protestants have begun wearing orange on St.Patrick's day in defiance. Interesting.

A surprising fact is that it became a national holiday in 1903 in Ireland and the pubs were ordered to be closed on March 17 but, it was changed in the 1970's. Surprising because I'm sure that many people that celebrated this as a religious and national holiday would be amazed at the amount of debauchery that goes on now! Some think that the reason so many have turned this into a secular holiday is this coincides with a pagan festival celebrating the god of wine. Yet another new one for me.

According to wikipedia, St.Patrick was a Roman-Britain born a christian missionary and was captured by Irish raiders and made a slave to Ireland before he escaped, about six years later. There is much more information and even some theories, but I won't type all these up. Happy St. Patrick's day however you celebrate it. Just don't celebrate TOO much!

Please Vote For My Friend

My friend over at The Jacobsen Family blog is a finalist on momcentral for a washer and dryer.

They are a one income family that works hard and plays hard. They could really use your help in getting a new washer and dryer since theirs are on their last legs and they don't have a lot of money to replace them.

If you are registered with momcentral, please take a moment and vote for AJacobsen!

Thanks

Mel

Modern Pirate Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

Modern Pirate Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

Winner! Handbag Heaven

According to random.org out of 501 total entries *WOW*


280

Anonymous said...
I like the Lanie Classic hobo in lime green. Well...this is for my wife actually. jimmyrug @ hotmail.com


Congrats! An email has been sent and you have 48 hours to get back to me. I'm sure your wife will LOVE you!

Monday, March 16, 2009

It's Hip Hop Baby! Review & Giveaway*CLOSED*

My daughter and I had a chance about a month ago to review a new CD and DVD called It's Hip Hop Baby! When we finally got a chance to put it on and really watch it, my daughter was hooked. She is two and loves to dance at this stage in her development. She loves going over her ABC's and she loves to try and count with me.
It's Hip Hop Baby has counting, Simon says, ABC's, and Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes. It shows children in the studio and park settings talking about their favorite things and singing the songs. The DVD takes on an urban feel and has a diverse group of kids singing and dancing. It reminds me of PBS kids shows where children are helping "teach" on the television.
The music has very catchy beats that make it easy to get involved in and remember what is being said. I can tell you after watching it a few times over the last few days that the songs are definitely stuck in my head ha ha. My daughter honestly only asks to watch this DVD and her movie, Cars. She is completely enthralled by watching the kids and trying to do the movements on Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes and that makes it a great "exercise" video as well.
The only down side I can think of, is that the DVD is short, it's only about 22 minutes long and my daughter could probably stand it to be a little longer.
Buy It
You can find It's Hip Hop Baby! on amazon, along with four other DVD's they have available now. Go check them out.
Win It
It's Hip Hop Baby! is being very generous and giving away a CD, and DVD to one lucky reader.
Rules
Please go to the It's Hip Hop Baby website and tell me the name of one of the other DVD's on the site. This must be followed or your entries are invalid! I need your email as a way to contact you or the prize will go to someone else. You will have 48 hours to respond to my email.
Contest ends March 30,2009 11:59PM Arizona time.
Extra Entries
1. Grab my Ramblings Of A Wannabe Writer button and put it on your blog
2. Follow me on Blogger

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Hurry!

There's only a few days left on these contests! Odds are fantastic right now for the Milkshake music giveaway as there's only 23 entries!

Handbag heaven-choose your own handbag giveaway ends 3/16 at midnight Arizona time.

Milkshake music CD,DVD and comic book giveaway ends 3/17 at midnight Arizona time.

Thanks for your entries and good luck!

Friday, March 13, 2009

Freaky Friday-"Vampire" found in Italy


A mass grave of plague victims has been unearthed and a skeleton of a woman who was believed to be a vampire was found with a brick in her mouth. Apparently, this supports the medieval beliefs that vampires spread plagues like the Black Death.


The belief in vampires came about because decomposition wasn't widely understood. The dead would become bloated, blood came from the mouth, hair still grew and the shrouds laid on the faces of the dead would be "eaten" away by bacteria. Those would be called "shroud eaters". They were believed to suck the life from living until they could roam the earth again.

I wasn't that girl that wanted to know more about vampires or had an affinity to them. I've seen movies in the past with them but, wasn't curious to know or read more. They weren't alluring to me.

I always think it's amazing how far we've come as humans in our understanding and education yet, hold onto folklore and fantasy just the same. Vampires are just as popular as ever. With stories like Twilight becoming a huge success. We can turn ignorance over how a plague is spread, into stories of lust, sexuality and blood sucking. Imaginations ran wild with fear then and people still like to know fear. Maybe it's human instinct, like watching a car accident, etc?

All I can say is, I'll never look at an ad for another vampire movie or book the same way again!


Thursday, March 12, 2009

Tasty Thursday




I made these for my daughter for her birthday. I am no baker, so they didn't come out pretty but, man did these taste good! This is not my recipe, it's from Sprinkles bakery. And, if you're on a diet, don't even attempt these bad boys. These are for enjoying and doing something special.
Make sure you don't overcook the cupcakes or you'll get a crust and they'll be dry.

Makes 1 dozen
2/3 cup whole fresh or frozen strawberries, thawed
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
1/4 cup whole milk, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
2 large egg whites, room temperature
Sprinkles' Strawberry Frosting
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners; set aside.
Place strawberries in a small food processor; process until pureed. You should have about 1/3 cup of puree, add a few more strawberries if necessary or save any extra puree for frosting; set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside. In a small bowl, mix together milk, vanilla, and strawberry puree; set aside.
In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter on medium-high speed, until light and fluffy. Gradually add sugar and continue to beat until well combined and fluffy. Reduce the mixer speed to medium and slowly add egg and egg whites until just blended.
With the mixer on low, slowly add half the flour mixture; mix until just blended. Add the milk mixture; mix until just blended. Slowly add remaining flour mixture, scraping down sides of the bowl with a spatula, as necessary, until just blended.
Divide batter evenly among prepared muffin cups. Transfer muffin tin to oven and bake until tops are just dry to the touch, 22 to 25 minutes. Transfer muffin tin to a wire rack and let cupcakes cool completely in tin before icing.


Do You Want A Custom Blog Design?

If you would like to win a custom blog design, go over to Punky Monkeys blog and enter the giveaway she is running. Sara from Subjective Beauty is willing to do a total blog overhaul!

Woot!

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Please Take A Moment

Friends, please take a moment of your time and go check out this magazine called Serious Life. It is an online, christian based magazine that features blogs, heartwarming stories, and life lessons.

Their new March edition is available now! Our blog is in their directory too!

Thanks for your time.

Melanie

Do YOU Believe In Fairytales?


I have been wanting to feature some local companies on my blog as I'm just outside metro Phoenix and there are some great businesses out here. I think it's always good to give back to your community.

There's this little(read, major) company here named Fairytale Brownies, that makes the most scrumptious, decadent, sinful, delicious, brownies I've ever tasted. I know that's saying A LOT, especially when these are packaged brownies. They are located in major retail outlets and ship worldwide.

Why? Because of their high quality ingredients, including creamery butter and Belgian chocolate. These are the kind of brownies that make you stop dead in your tracks and say "WOW". You can really taste the dense, semi sweet cocoa flavor. They have thirteen regular flavors and even Fairytale truffles which are brownies dipped in chocolate. I know, you died and went to chocolate heaven. Ha! They're so good, even one of my neighbors swiped the first order sent to me. No lie.

I love the back story too, two friends who grew up in Phoenix named Eileen Spitalny and David Kravetz, decided when they were young that they wanted to become entrepreneurs and spread their love of brownies around the world. Too cute.

Fairytale brownies are featuring a yummy St.Patrick's day morsel 24 pack with six each of Original, Caramel, Chocolate Chip and Walnut Magic Morsels. These are the ones I was able to try. I'm thinking caramel has my heart.

Right now they are 10% off and free shipping. I'd say definitely worth it!

Wordless Wednesday-4 Weeks Old


Monday, March 9, 2009

Why We Need To Go To Sea World!

So Ted from Izea, which I happen to belong to(hello social spark and pay per post ;) ) has teamed up with Sea World to offer an amazing trip for four to Sea World.

I'm supposed to tell him why. I could give you big sob stories right now about how we are totally broke and unable to pay for a trip right now, how my husband is the primary income maker of the house and never has time off, how the wife(that's me) can't really go anywhere due to fund problems as well, or how we haven't been on any type of family vacation for over a year. All of those things may be entirely true but, I won't tell you that. ;)

I will say that we would love to go and spend some quality time with our two kids. We have never been to Florida as a family and 3 out of 4 of us have not been to Florida period. It would be a new experience for us and definitely an adventure flying cross country with two kids.

If that's not enough, how cool is the Manta ride??? I would pee my pants going on that thing, I love crazy rides! Woot! My husband and I both love them and yet we've never been on any big rides together. Guess we'd have to get some neighboring family to take the kids while we go "fly" like the manta does in the sea.

Here's hoping we get picked for this amazing giveaway!

Melanie and family

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Photofiddle Review AND Giveaway*CLOSED*

OK, I'll be honest. I'd seen Photofiddle before I contacted them. I have entered some of their contests and pictured my own photo on one of their canvases. Why? Because they're so COOL!

I love that they have SO many "fiddling" options to choose from. You can make your high resolution photo look like a classic oil painting, charcoal sketch, pop art and modern art just to name a few.

They have been featured in USA Today and Better Homes and Gardens, as well as many other high profile media. Based on what you receive, they are wonderfully affordable and make awesome gifts. Mother's Day is just around the corner and I am seriously considering this as a gift for mine. What a unique gift for that special mom in your life!

I was impressed by the amount of communication that I was sent regarding my order. The first picture I sent wasn't high resolution enough so, they asked for a different photo. I was a little bummed but, understood that they wanted to make something high quality. I resent a photo and was told that it was going to be processed in the fiddle of my choice. I chose Modern Art. I received an email through each step of the way and was able to check the status online through my account with Photofiddle. I am a person that likes to be communicated with, and to have that level of service was outstanding!

On to my artwork. I received this gorgeous, gallery wrapped canvas of my original photo. It's on an 18x12 canvas.


My Before:






My Photofiddle:





Photofiddle is being very generous and offering my readers a 15% off code to purchase their very own photofiddle! Once you are at your shopping cart enter writer15 as your coupon code and it will take it off your purchase.


Win It

Photofiddle has offered a lucky winner a $50 gc for their very own photofiddle!

Rules

You must go to Photofiddle and choose the style that you would love to have your photo made into. If this rule isn't followed all other entries will be invalid!

Please leave your email, I can't give you a prize if I can't contact you!


Extra Entries

-Grab my Ramblings Of A Wannabe Writer button and put it on your blog-I must be able to verify this so please leave your blog link or be signed in to your blog when you enter.


-Follow me

-Blog about this giveaway AND leave me a link

Please leave a Separate entry for each thing you do.

Contest ends March 23, 2009 11:59 PM Arizona time

U.S. Entries, open to non bloggers with email address

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Freaky Friday


Um, it has come to my attention that Barbie is now tattooed. What's that? Yep, tattooed. Where have I been? Apparently, Barbie comes with decorative stickers to "express herself" and a form of tattoo gun so kids can stick them on the doll and themselves?! Ha ha.


I'm only in my 30's and I feel extremely old and disillusioned by the toys of this generation. Keep in mind that Barbie is a child's toy. The Barbie of this generation dresses like a hoochie and can now "express" herself by tattooing her body. I'm sorry but, inking your body doesn't really land up there in my priority list of things I want to teach my daughter.
Yes, it's up to parent's to teach their children morals but, these days it makes it very difficult when it is shoved so blatantly down their throats at the store, by friends, commercials, billboards, computer, and you name it.
*SIGH*

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Fun With Flowers Giveaway!


Go check out this giveaway through Karen's site, A Blog Of Goodies. It features one of my handpainted frames from KaiLei Designs. Her giveaway is centered around Fun With Flowers. It's so awesome that she is doing this and I'm so glad to be a part of it!

Please go check out this giveaway as well as the awesome apron she is giving away!

Thanks,

Melanie

Wordless Wednesday-Pigtails!


Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Puss Ann Guest GIVEAWAY!!!!

Puss Ann Guest GIVEAWAY!!!!

Monday, March 2, 2009

Milkshake Music Review And Giveaway! *CLOSED*




I asked family to purchase some CD's for my daughter's first Christmas, which also was the day before her first Birthday. She loves music and has really always loved it! She received a cute little CD called Happy Songs from Milkshake music. My daughter has loved that CD since day one and so has her mama!


It's fun and vibrant and the lyrics are about everyday life. Well, I wanted to share their music with all of you. They have a new CD out now called Play, that has some really cute tunes about having a band, pirates, and Superheroes!


We received the new CD, the new DVD and the comic book to review. The DVD features really cute, kid friendly videos with the band singing their songs. They have different locations and really play out the visualization of the songs. The DVD also includes two videos that were created for PBS kids and a noggin hit, Bottle Of Sunshine.


The band's mission is to create children's rock music. They were inspired by the birth of their children and what they are going through on a daily basis. They are soulful and inspired and a break away from traditional children's music.


Milkshake music would like to invite you to join their Facebook to get new updates from the band and shows.


Here's my little gal dancing







Win It!


One person will win a Play Cd, Screen Play DVD and a Comic


Rules


Please go to the Milkshake music website and tell me your favorite song from the new CD, Play. This must be followed or your entries are invalid! I need your email as a way to contact you or the prize will go to someone else. You will have 48 hours to respond to my email.


Extra Entries


1. Grab my Ramblings Of A Wannabe Writer button and put it on your blog


2. Follow me on Blogger


3. Add me to twitter(kaiasmommy) AND tweet this contest. Please leave your twitter name and tweet link in your entry


4. Add Milkshake music to your Facebook


Please list each entry separately as I have no way of going through each entry.


This contest ends March 17Th, 2009 at 11:59 Arizona time

U.S. entries, open to non bloggers with email address


winner will be chosen by random.org

Make Something Monday






I've been working on some new frames. Each of the new frames are hand painted and/or decorated and are done using recycled picture frames. I'm enjoying getting to use different techniques and textures, while still making them nice to look at and something that people would like as part of their decor.
The first frame is about a 5x7 in ceramic frame that I painted with a white enamel. I made some basic stencils for the "zebra" print and then brushed over the white with a turquoise. To add a little touch, I added an orange flower blossom to accent it.
The second frame was base painted with turquoise, dry brushed with an aqua, and then dotted with a leafy green and accented with orange flowers. All was hand painted. 8x10
The third frame is a 5x7 frame that was base painted with a bright orange, covered with crackle primer and then topped with the turquoise. Accented with a wooden motorcycle decorative piece.
One of these will be used to go to Bloggers Give on behalf of my etsy shop, KaiLei Designs! I'm so excited!
Melanie

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Recaro Car Seat Giveaway

Barefoot Mommies is having a giveaway for a Recaro car seat. High quality, multiple safety features. Go check it out!

Melanie