Saturday, April 30, 2011

On the fence!

Pleae take a quick moment and vote for me over at picket fence blogs! You can find the link in the button on the left of your screen! Thanks so much!

as your children grow

I am always amazed at how much Julien changes (both physically, mentally and emotionally).  Over the past few months, his attention span has expanded by such a large amount, that he can actually sit and watch a movie (if it interests him) or play a board game.

I love games - board games, card games, interactive games - love them. I grew up spending lots of time with my parents and my brother playing monopoly, sorry, scrabble, rummy, yum and yahtzee - just to name a few. Those moments have created some wonderful memories for me, and I hope that we can do the same for our boys.

J took Jules out to toys r us yesterday and they bought Candyland and Mousetrap; J played both games with him yesterday while I was out for coffee with a girlfriend, and said that they both really enjoyed it - and julien actually "got" what candyland was about. He knew that if he picked a card with 1 red square - he needed to move his man to the next red space etc.

We played this morning while Kyle was napping, and he had so much fun. A simple game that took us 10 minutes to play, made his morning! It was awesome!

Friday, April 29, 2011

REVIEW: Bebek baby products



About the company:
The brand Bebek has a team of professionals committed to the design, testing and evaluating our entire product line to the highest of standards. The feedback and requirements we receive from customers is the biggest asset we have to make a product that our customers are looking for. In the end it is all about your satisfaction.

Our company began with an incredible goal in mind and that is to produce the highest quality of baby and infant care products for both baby and ultimately parent’s satisfaction.

Review:

I recently had the opportunity to review 2 of the bebek products. The first was a 9oz bottle with a pro-flo nipple. The one we received was slo-flo, but they are available in 4 different flows.

About the Pro-Flo nipple
BPA Free

Helps to vent the bottle much faster than regular nipples
Made from 100% clear silicone
Slow Flow
100 % anti-colic, which prevents babies from having gas

The bottle has a unique shape, and a nice wide mouth/nipple. Out of all the bottles I have used with my 2 boys, I would say that this comes the closest to the breast. My youngest son took it without a problem, and recently we have had issues with him refusing the bottle - so this was a big plus for me! I don't have a picture of him with it, since I am the one that feeds him, but this is a picture from their website
 
 


The 2nd item I was sent is one of their "sipper" cups. It is the safari natural extension sipper cup.

We were sent one in orange/black - and I must tell you, my older son LOVES it. In the bottom of the cup, there are beads -so when you move the cup, it makes a shaking sound. He got a kick out of it, and he also loved the face on the cup!
Here is a picture of him with his new favorite sipper cup



Not only do they have bottles and sippy cups, but they also carry pacifiers, sterilizers, and feeding sets. In 2010, they won a PTPA award!

In the Ottawa area, you can find the Bebek products at Kiddytown, Belly Laughs and Boomerang Kids!

For more info, check out their website Bebek website


* The products mentioned above have been given free of charge from the company in exchange for being featured on Tales of Mommyhood.  The opinions expressed in this post are those of Tales of Mommyhood and have not been influenced in any other way. Your opinion may vary

Thursday, April 28, 2011

mmmm raspberry swirl cupcakes

I decided to try something new today.

I made a batch of cupcakes, added some raspberry coulis and baked them

this is what came out of the oven


and this is the inside
then I added some raspberry icing (not pretty - just to see the taste)

REVIEW - tshirtprinting



I recently received a shirt from tshirtprinting  for review. The shirt I received was a size small, grey shirt with their logo, a monkey, in the centre.

The colours are bright, and the picture is clear. The shirt fit me well (I normally wear a small) and was quite comfortable. Sometimes when a shirt has a print on it, you can feel it against your skin, but not with this.

Tshirt printing has over 20 years experience in screen printing; you can either purchase your products from them (tshirts, hoodies, hats etc) and they will supply them with whatever logo or slogan you desire printed on them - or - you can supply them with the items you want printed, and they will add the logo/slogan.

a not so flattering picture of me, but the shirt looks great

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com created by WebBizIdeas a Minneapolis SEO and Web Design firm. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

want to win over $100 in product

from Hank Player? Then head on over to the Hank Player facebook page and "like" them; once they hit 200 fans, they will have a giveaway for over $100 in product!

Saturday, April 23, 2011

Happy Easter!

Just a quick Happy Easter post!

Every year, we head over to one of my aunt/uncles houses for a bbq on Good Friday; then on Saturday we have dinner with J's parents and grandfather; and on Easter Sunday we head over to another aunt/uncles house for a lovely turkey dinner.

Sunday morning Julien has a little egg hunt from the easter bunny; poor Kyle gets shafted this year - the Easter bunny has a book for him. Julien on the other hand, has a game (monkey dunk) a sticker book, 3 mini chocolate bunny rabbits, and 3 eggs filled with stickers/candy. 

I can't remember what the bunny brought Julien for his first Easter - oh well, next year K will get to enjoy the chocolate with his brother!

Friday, April 22, 2011

In honour of Earth day - yet another cloth dipe post

I recently bought a grovia diaper for Kyle - it is so cute. His little bum gets covered in owls now!

I love the fact that by using cloth diapers, we are helping to keep waste from the landfills. Yes, I use slightly more water now, because I have 3 extra loads of laundry a week - I hang them to dry instead of using the dryer, so I am not wasting too much extra energy (this is definitely a perk on the saving money side of things)

facebook page - only 5 away

I am only 5 "likes" away from 100 fans - please take a moment to "like" my page

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tales-of-Mommyhood/160778500646410

Sunday, April 17, 2011

have you ever wondered

why little kids are so fascinated with toilet paper rolls? and unravelling them? and putting the end of the toilet paper in the toilet and then flushing?

Because I certainly have. I dont' think I have ever gone through so much toilet paper in such a short period of time as I have since Julien toilet trained.

Saturday, April 16, 2011

I am so tired of the question

"are you going to have another to try for a girl?" Really - why do I need to try for a girl. If we have another baby, can it not be just for the sake of expanding our family?

Why do people automatically assume that when you have 2(or more) of the same sex, that you want to have another to go for the opposite gender? Why must everyone want the million dollar family?

Even when I was pregnant, before finding out the sex of my children, I was never hoping for one over the other.

I really wish that people would just accept the fact that I want children - not specific sexes.
OK - rant over.

Thursday, April 14, 2011

up to no good

Just a note to myself:

If you think your child is up to no good, they probably are.

Ha - I was getting laundry ready, and thought I heard the kitchen tap running, but decided to ignore it. Big mistake - I came downstairs to find my kitchen floor COVERED in water - Julien was helping me by "washing" it. And by washing it, I mean pulling out the hose, and spraying water all over the place.

OH boy

more on cloth diapers (yep, again)

As I have stated in other posts, I am really wishing I had switched to cloth earlier.  Today I need to return the trial pack I had from chiquita baby - and it makes me sad. I only have 4 of my own CD's, so Iwill have to use up the disposables I have, and then save some money and buy more cloth dipes.

A cute pic of my little guy with his cloth bum!

Work At Home Moms (wahm's)

I really give you WAHM's credit. I don't know how you do it.

I am helping out my boss for a little while, and WAH. Last night wasn't so bad - after Kyle went to bed, I got about 90 minutes in - Jules played with (and fell asleep on) daddy.



However, this morning is another story. I set my alarm for 6am, figuring Iwould have 60minutes or so before the boys woke up. NOPE - I was wrong, Kyle was awake (and poopy - yuck) and Jules got up too. Trying to get a few pages of data entered was nearly impossible. I gave up with 1.5 left to go - it will have to wait until tonight I guess.

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

melt your heart moments

I love being a mom! There are so many cherishable mometns with my kid. My lateeest "melt my heart" moment just happened a few moments ago!

Kyle had gone to bed, and after about 40 minutes woke up. I went in for some cuddles, and when I picked him up and rocked him, he looked at me with sleepy eyes, put his fingers in his mouth, and drifted off to sleep.

Melts my heart!

mommy confessions

I will confess, I hate housework. As in, I absolutely abhor it.Before having children, it was a weekly routine for me - Saturday morning I woke up, put on the laundry - vacuumed and washed the floors; threw the wash into the dryer, cleaned the bathrooms and thenhad a shower and ate breakfast. Headed out to do groceries, came home and put them away. Folded the dry laundry, away it went - and voila, my weekly chores were done.

Then I got pregnant; had horrible morning sickness and fatigue, and the chores just kind of kept getting pushed back farther and farther. My mom was terrific, and anytime she was over would clean the kitchen and/or downstairs bathroom for me (I would feel bad, but she loves to clean. She actually gets giddy buying cleaning products)

And now, with 2 kids - I feel as if my house will be cluttered and messy until they are old enough to do it themselves.....LOL - I guess not. I do some, but I find it very difficult to get anything done during the day when my children need my attention. And when hubby gets home, it's pretty much time for dinner. After the boys go to bed, I am E.X.H.A.U.S.T.E.D - and just want to relax and catch up with hubby.

So, that's my confession - my house is a mess - and I really don't plan on doing anything about it!
Care to share yours?

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Coth Diapers - Day 1 =

SUCCESS!

I am so happy with how yesterday went. I used a few different types of diapers (pocket and flip, made by different brands). So far, the flip and the sweet pea pocket seem to be my favorite! And I must say, his little bum looks so cute in the cloth dipes!

I really wish that I had done this a long time ago. I waffled with the decision when I was pregnant, but really didn't think that my hubby would go for it. I guess I should have brought it up - oops.

Now I need to make some cloth wipes to use - and I will be all set.

For anyone in the Ottawa area, if you are interested in trying cloth diapers, check out chiquita baby. If your not interested in cloth diapers, still check them out, they have some pretty cool products in the store!

Saturday, April 9, 2011

what a wonderful, romantic hubby I have!

Most of my posts are about my children, myself or products that we love. I thought I would throw one in about my husband!

Last night, after the kids went to bed, we were catching up on shows that we have on the PVR. Hubby then disappeared downstairs, and when he came up he had a tray with champagne and chocolate cake for us! The champagne was from our 5th anniverary (february) but we never got to open it because both our kids decided that they would crash our celebration! It has been in the fridge, un-opened ever since.

Thanks babe - love you!

Hank Player Review


As a mom of 2 boys, I often have trouble finding unique, stylish clothing for my children.  Most of the styles seem to be very similar, and really - how many plaid shirts does 1 child need?

I was recently contacted by Hank Player USA to review their tee's. They were kind enough to send me 4 shirts, 2 for each of the boys.

A little about the company - from the website:

Hank Player strives to create a quality, long lasting garment that brings together a combination of unique graphics and vintage color processing.  All about clean designs on easy-wearing clothes, Hank Player is garment dyed and washed to give it a familiar lived-in feel.

The following is taken from the FAQ section on the Hank Player website:
Hank Player garments are made using a special vintage processing. Each garment will have a weathered and worn-in look, with slight variations in color and graphic, for a one-of-a-kind look.  

All Hank Player garments are made with the finest quality ringspun, supima cotton. They can be machine-washed with like colors and tumble-dried low. A cool iron can be used if needed, but please do not iron on the printed graphic.

Hank Player is proudly made in the USA



Review:

As soon as I took them out of the box, I noticed how soft they were. I then checked the washing instructions, I like clothes that are easily cared for - my oldest is hard on his clothes, and I need to know that they will stand up to the constant washing/drying. 

They have lots of designs to choose from, check out this page to see the options available! We were sent the "Rock On" and "Breakfast of Champions" for Julien; and for Kyle, the "running shoes" and "blah blah blah".


I received size 4t for Julien, which is his regular size and it fits quite well. They pre-shrink the shirts before selling)which is awesome, because I have purchased quite a few outfits for Jules that have not been, and after washing have not fit), so they are pretty true to size. Kyle's shirts were 2 sizes - 6mth and 12mth - and he was able to wear both - the 12mth was slightly big, but still wearable now.


I am quite impressed with the quality - the more they have been washed (4 times this past week), the softer they seem to get. They are pretty lightweight, and Julien was really happy with the designs. It is hard to get them off him to wash!

<><>
<> </>
</></><><>
</></>


I do need to tell you that there was an issue with the maroon "rock on" shirt, and the dye running -however,  I was in contact with the company and they are investigating it, as they haven't had any feedback like mine before. They were quick to respond, and dealt with it to my satisfaction - and it wouldn't stop me from buying a shirt in the future.

Buy It: You can purchase Hank Player clothing on the
Hank Player site or find a store near you on the store locator page.


Win It: Check back here in a few weeks for your
chance to win 2 tee's in sizes of your choice!

* The products mentioned above have been given free of charge from the company in exchange for being featured on Tales of Mommyhood.  The opinions expressed in this post are those of Tales of Mommyhood and have not been influenced in any other way. Your opinion may vary.

and the winner is....

lucky comment 30 - congratulations carole.

You have 48 hrs to contact me, or I choose another winner (7am EST monday, april 11)

Thursday, April 7, 2011

brotherly.....love? not today

Kyle experienced his first nose bleed today - at the hands of his brother - or should I say the feet? Kyle was sitting on our front hall mat, and Julien was running around - he decided that he would "bump into" Kyle. All I saw was Kyle fall backwards, hitting the back of his head on the wall and then the tile floor (which was covered by the mat); his face got red, scrunched up and he started screaming. I saw the blood coming out his nose...and Ifelt so bad for my little bug. I picked Jules up and put him on the steps and told him not to move ( or maybe yelled not to move) then I got Kyle and gave him some cuddles. It took about 10 minutes for the bleeding to stop and the crying to subside- and then Julien (who hadn't moved) had his timeout kick in - for 3 minutes.

I guess this is the first of many "accidents" between 2 brothers - Julien doesn't know what's coming though - because in a few months, Kyle will start to fight back.

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

losing the blanket

Have you ever "made" anything special for your children? When Jules was a young toddler, I made him 2 blankets. He loves them (even though they are horrible - I am not the best at sewing) and while he may not use them as often anymore, he still likes to know they are there.

When I was pregnant with Kyle, I searched for months to find a fabric I loved to make him a blanket. I made the blanket, I made burp cloths to match. In  the hospital, we used the blanket. We used it at home, and in the car.

And then I lost it. I have NO idea where - the last time I remember having it, was at the santa claus parade in November. After that, I am unsure.
It makes me so sad to think that the blanket I searched so long for, and worked so hard on is now lost. I will make him a new one; he has no idea (he was 2.5mths old the last time it was used) but it still makes me sad.

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

cloth diapers

I think I may try cloth diapers with Kyle. I have had the interest for a little while, but I have NO idea where to start?  I would still use disposables while out and about, but would really like to give it a try.

So, my question for all you moms out in blogland - where do I start? How many do I need, and what is the EASIEST?

Monday, April 4, 2011

love this book

Mama loves you - by Caroline Stutson

the last quote "you are my star, my moon, my sun - mama loves you little one"

Sunday, April 3, 2011

cookie pie

My mom received a new cookbook from a friend a few weeks ago. It is a compilation of recipe's from the staff at Doctor's hospital in Augusta, Georgia. One of the recipe's is for cookie pie - and I decided to try it.

It is VERY simple - a graham cracker pie crust, chocolate chip cookies (mr. christie), milk and cool whip.

You dunk the cookies in the milk, and then place them in the pie crust. Top with whip cream and then repeat with another layer or 2 (depending how high you want it to be) Cover and refrigerate overnight.

The cookies get sooooo soft, and it is delicious. Next time, I plan on making it with OREO cookies!

Saturday, April 2, 2011

kids grow up

Julien is old enough to play outside on the back deck by himself. Last year, I let him , but I stayed in the kitchen to keep an eye on him. This year, I am comfortable with leaving the main level and doing laundry, playing with Kyle etc. I love the fact that he is old enough and independant enough to be there without me, but it also makes me sad that he is growing up. Starting kindergarten in the fall, and the fact that he is potty trained makes it even more so.

It's rare that he will let me hold and cuddle him now. I try and remember to get my fill with Kyle before he grows up and doesn't want them either

Ultimage Blog Party 2011


I am joining in the Ultimate Blog Party 2011, along with MANY other bloggers! Check out the link to find out more information about it!

A little about Tales of Mommyhood!

I started the blog 2.5 years ago  my son had just turned 1 and I thought it was a great way to let friends/family know what was going on in our life. I love to write about my boys, and share pictures too! It's also a place for me to share my experiences and vent if needed. I do some product reviews and giveaways - so keep checking back to see what is coming up next.

A little about ME!



My name is Ashley and I am 30 years old; a wife, a mommy (to 2 fabulous boys -Julien and Kyle) I LOVE to bake, and rarely a week goes by without at least ONE baked treat; I am very much into cake decorating and I enjoy cooking - but most of all, I love that I am able to spend my time caring for my children. Being a SAHM was always a dream of mine, and I am fortunate enough to be able to fulfill it (for the most part!) I work VERY part time - so I still consider myself a SAHM!
I love to hear from my readers, so feel free to comment on my posts or send me an email!

You can also find me on facebook and twitter!

Thanks for stopping by - and I hope you enjoy the party!

Friday, April 1, 2011

Hank Player review coming soon

Ok, so since I have mentioned a few times that a new review/giveaway was in the works, and I have now received the product -  I will tell you which company it is for - Hank Player USA.

I received 4 shirts (2 for each of the boys) yesterday; I will be writing my review next weekend, so check back for it. They have also been kind enough to offer a giveaway to my readers, which will happen in about 3-4 weeks time - so again, keep checking back! But, while your waiting - head on over to Hank Player's website and take a look at their products!

I love my tub time

I am bath girl. I absolutely love to soak in a hot bath (bubble bath, milk bath, scented oils) and read a book. Some nights (if it's been a particularly rough day) I will enjy a glass of wine at the same time.

When placing my latest *caledonia soapworks order,  Idecided to try the mik bath that they offer. So last night, for the first time I used it. It was wonderful. Made my skin feel so soft, and the scent was subtle - but invigorating.

I was reading my book, and Julien came in to use the toilet; unfortunately - he didn't make it and pee'd a little in his pants - so he decided to throw them in the tub to "wash" them. Then he proceeded to pee on the bath mat, and he leaned over and SPIT in my bath - I was already getting out since the pee soak pants had joined me, but this was too much. I was not impressed.

The only good thing - I had been in the tub for 30 minutes, and was just about to finish the chapter in my book - so I was on my way out anyways......

The life of a mom!

*if you haven't checked out the website, you should. They have a number of amazing products!