How do you define the "beyond a mom" you?

I hope everyone had a great holiday season and is gearing up for an exciting year ahead!  This last year has been a busy one for my family.  I am just now feeling like I am getting back into the swing of things!  With two moves and a baby, it's been a lot to digest but as the crazy new baby days (daze?) slowly shift to the look-mom-I-can-sit-by-myself days, I've noticed that I am re-energized and re-focused on working on my personal goals.

This year I want to really hone in on the "beyond a mom" me.  The one who is quirky, energetic, and interested in any number of topics.

While I strive to be a very present and engaged mother, it's my goal to find opportunities this year that get me out of the stay-at-home-mom routine and enable me to tap into my other dimensions- the ones that have collected a bit of dust over the last two and a half years.

The "beyond a mom" me is passionate about graceful aging and healthy living.  She's interested in self-sufficiency, environmental sustainability, history and medicine.  She could spend hours looking at online real estate sites as she daydreams about her micro-cottage in the middle of nowhere.  And she dreams of one day having a job that allows her to really tap into these interests.

My goal this year is to investigate opportunities that allow me to learn about these passions.  While I am not an expert in any, I hope that I can explore them all!

How do you define your "beyond a mom" self?

Working On a Relaunch!

Time to brush off the ol' blog!

The "new baby" dust is beginning to settle and I'm starting to feel a bit more like myself (only this self is still in her bath robe and pj's!-- and for the record, this self is TOTALLY ok with that).

I'm refining my goals as a person and a parent and I want to use this space to showcase my point of view.  While I am still widdling down to the specifics, it goes a little something like this (hat tip to the Fresh Beat Band)...

Passionate about health and wellness as it relates to graceful aging, Kate is an avid beauty product junkie who loves her fair share of facials and skin peels!  Convinced that the fountain of youth lies at the cross roads of diet and exercise, this busy mom of two does her best to eat well and stay fit, but frequently falls short resorting to puffs, squeezey packs, toddler chasing and baby bouncing for her diet and exercise needs. 

Kate has a passion for family and enjoys being home with her two young sons. When she isn’t wearing the mommy hat, you can find Kate scoping out the latest beauty products, sweating it out at Pure Barre or indulging in her lifetime goal of one day being an on-air host for a show that enables her to explore and share health and wellness tips for graceful aging!

The Mom Mood

Today was the first day I had ever heard another mom "vent" about her LO.  Not just one of those silly complaints coupled with an eye-roll.  But a desperate and confused complaint followed up with a plea for advice.

It felt so good to see someone else complain because so often I feel like I am on the other side of that conversation.  For the first time ever, I sat there listening and thought to myself- thank goodness L is finally sleeping through the night.

I remembered the times that I would unroll my picnic blanket at the moms meet up, happily introduce myself and my son and eagerly bring up the topics of night feedings, early wake ups, and non-napping assuming that everyone must be feeling the stresses of new momhood only to feel silly and insecure when everyone just listened and smiled, politely acknowledging how tough it must be but never really joining in my, whats the word...misery?

L is a happy and healthy adorable little man.  And I am so lucky to be his mom.  I am even luckier that I get to stay home and be with him.

But depsite all of this "luck", I find that day after day I feel frustrated and unenergized.

And on those rare occassions that I am actually home and he is napping (as opposed to him napping in his stroller while we are out), those are the most amazing times- I can get things done or I can actually sit on the couch with a cup of coffee and watch mindless TV!  Sadly, those naps last, at a MAX one hour.

I hate sounding so ungrateful and complaining when we have a healthy baby boy, but the 5am wake up calls, the bickering with my DH about who is "on duty", the often daily struggle with bedtime, the heart wrenching experimenting with sleep training ....it takes so much out of me!

To top it all off, today L stabbed me in the eye with chop sticks (they seemed like such a benign toy to keep him entertained while we waited for our food) and as we scurried out of the restaurant, leaving our friends behind so that we could avoid a meltdown and get L to bed, I stubbed my toe so badly that I literally saw stars!

For the last 10 months I have been waiting for the dust to settle.  To hit my mom stride and to finally have it all figured out.  But each day brings another complex challenge and I am desperate to try and keep up (and I know what some people are thinking and I know you are right..."just wait until you decide to have another child").

Do I just need to acknowledge that this is the new norm.  That this mood I am often in (irritable, frustrated, maybe even a little depressed) is just the mom mood? 

Phrases, Cliches, and Sayings That Make So Much More Sense Now

Now that I am a mom, so many of the one-liners and phrases that were said to me before and during my pregnancy suddenly make a ton of sense. Here are a few...

Stock Up on Sleep:

This one used to make me laugh, but now I totally get it and whole-heartedly agree that, if this was possible, I should have definitely done it!

You'll know when it happens:

During my pregnancy I had a lot of Braxton Hicks contractions. In the earlier months I realized that this didn't mean anything significant, but as weeks/months went on, I was always hopeful that a BH contraction might mean that labor was just around the corner. Whenever I discussed this with other moms, I was always told, "you'll know when it happens". This phrase bugged me because it was so vague but then, well, I went into labor and I "knew" it was happening.

Sleep when the baby sleeps:

It doesn't seem that hard, right? Except for the fact that I have a home to run and despite the bazillion of times I've heard this phrase, for some reason, sleep was always trumped by dishes, laundry, and/or shower. Sadly, I still have a hard time sleeping when he sleeps (like now)...but I really wish I had done more of this!

You Gotta Do What's Right for You:

So cliche but SO true. You can read every book, apply every bit of advice, but ultimately, you have to find your own system, your own technique. It's always good to ask advice and to learn from others, but at the end of the day, you really do have to do what's right for YOU.

A Mother's Love...:

When else in life are we ever ok with someone repeatedly waking us up in the middle of the night? Before you were a mom, did you ever giggle at bodily functions or laugh at bowel movements (correction: laugh at bm's that you would eventually have to clean up). And when else have you woken up after minutes of sleep, loving the person responsible for your lack of sleep even more than you loved them the day before?

It Gets Easier:

Getting out of the house still takes me at least 15 minutes (on a good day). I am still up at least two times a night (on a good night). Scheduling doctor appointments and playdates still stresses me out a little (ok, a lot). The car seat still weighs a million pounds (seriously...). The stroller is still broken (read: I still haven't figured out how to use it). Despite all of this, for some reason, it is easier. The job description hasn't changed, I have. I've learned to adapt and to be flexible. And most importantly, I've learned to never leave home without ample diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes- we learned this the hard way.

Ready, set, GO....GREEN!

...well, kind of "green". I am starting with my household cleaners primarily because that is the area in which my non-greenness is most apparent.

I am never more happy than when I walk into a clean scented organized space. But, I realize that a lot of the scents I associate with "clean" come with a few non-green consequences.

So here are my plans...

Step One:

Don't discard...donate. That's exactly what I planned to do with all of my not-so-green products (Clorox Bleach, Ajax, Swiffer WetJet, Fabric Softener Sheets, Lysol, Pledge). These are currently in a box at my doorway ready to make their way to the Liberty Humane Society.

Step Two:

Create a few essential cleaners from scratch (yes, as in homemade).

Step Three:

Purchase the things I can't make on my own.

Here is what I am left with:

• Vinegar, water, essential oils All-Purpose Cleaner (I used lavender and eucalyptus- my two favorite scents)
• Washing Soda, Borax, Lavender & Eucalyptus Laundry Detergent
• Lavender & Eucalyptus Dryer Sheet (well...reusable rag)
• Method Flushable Wipes
• Murphy's Oil
• Mrs. Meyers Lavender Fabric Softener*
• Mrs. Meyers Hand Soaps*
• Rags (the amount of paper towels we go through is embarrassing)

(*After some research, it turns out, that Mrs. Meyers might not be the greenest of products but it is certainly on the green spectrum. And it is impossibly hard not to love these adorably designed, deliciously scented products for the home :)

And there you have it, folks- my cleaning kit for the next several weeks! Hope I can keep it up!!

Thank you, Dr. Starbucks

I don't always appreciate snarky blog posts that criticize people who likely have only the best of intentions, but there is something just so laugh-out-loud funny about posts that focus on topics like, "What NOT to say to a pregnant woman."

I wanted to share a few real life scenarios that still make me laugh. I've also included my witty and clever retorts (that I thought of about a day or two afterward ...sigh).

"Should you be drinking that?!???"

Wow, I had no idea they were teaching prenatal care at Starbucks barista school.

"OMG, You are HUGE!"

If you think I'm huge, you should see my maternity underwear."

"You Must Be Due Any Minute!"

Nope, still have about eight weeks to go...so...ya...well...could you pass the stapler?" (I couldn't think of anything witty and clever so I figured I would rely on amplifying the awkward moment).

"Babe, when can we have another one?!"

Just as soon as I graduate from my disposable underwear lined with tuck pads and when I can go to the bathroom without using a water bottle :) (For anyone who doesn't have experience with this type of thing, let me know...I'll explain).

"Tell Me Everything!"

Well, first there was this thing they call a mucous pl....

(it's for my readers' safety that I don't share the entire ordeal. But the real reason you don't ask this of a new mom is because, as you requested, she will likely tell you ev.reee.thing!). In a strange, kind of heroic, "ya, I did that", kind of way, I loooved sharing these details. My husband, on the other hand, was not so comfortable reliving the entire procedure...er, I mean, "experience".

Grace...Not Perfection

I am my own worse critic. There are a lot of things in life that I am insecure about and mommy-hood has opened up an entirely new dimension to my insecurity. But with the exhaustion, the daily challenges, and the steep learning curve, I just don’t have time for my insecurities anymore. The second guessing, the mommy comparing, and everything else that unfolds in the mommy universe.

I am using this post as my declaration to rise above my self doubt and give myself a pat on the back for getting this far. For raising a happy and healthy baby and managing to keep up with his frequent night wakings, his fast approach towards the fussy teething stage, and the absolutely adorable (albeit messy as sin) experimentation with solids.

I need to stop pretending that this is easy or telling myself that it shouldn't be this hard. I need to be honest that on most days, I don’t even put on a bra, let alone shower. On the days I do shower, it is less about my personal hygiene and more about an opportunity for privacy, alone time, and a breather.

I need to be ok with “coming undone” and to learn to love the frazzled, frizzy-haired, totally strung out woman who looks back at me in the mirror. I need to be less needy of the peer compliments and more willing to be my own cheerleader; my own best friend.

I need to remind myself that every really great mom has/will come across her challenges. It might not be now but at some point whether it’s with teething, sleep regression, SATs or college visits, any mom who is trying her best will stumble over a parenting obstacle.

I need to remember my parenting goals- raising a happy and healthy baby who is compassionate and confident. And the easiest way to teach these traits is to be/do/embrace these traits. And most of all, I need to strive for a standard of grace and not perfection.

My Favorite Three Words As a Mom

Hand. Me. Downs.

In this economy I think it is fair to say that any rational person, regardless of financial situation, is always looking to save a few bucks. As a recent addition to the "Stay At Home Mom" club, I definitely look for ways to save a dime. We cook dinner at least 5 or 6 nights a week, take advantage of Amazon Prime for free shipping on the stuff we need, we make our own baby food (TBD if that is actually saving us money)....and the list goes on.

Not only is it a lot harder for me to spend money when I am not making a financial contribution, but I also have a little financial fairy in my ear who reminds me that you don't get rich by spending money. It's important to be conservative when you are living on one income (especially if said income is generated from the financial industry...you know, the industry where you get a raise one day and laid off the next...blech).

Today, while I was folding yet another basket of laundry, I realized how lucky I am...every single onsie, pj, pant, and cardigan I folded was a hand-me-down. No joke! And it made me realize that in the five months of my son's life I have bought MAYBE 5 items (there were really super cute outfits at Target during the holidays and he obviously needed a pair of tear away wind pants for Gymboree).

I am grateful for my sister, friends, and neighbors who have donated their clothes to our closet (and it is fantastic to think that I have a never ending supply courtesy of my nephew!). I get excited when we've grown out of one batch of clothing. I fold it and store it away for the next baby (God willing) and think about who, down the road, might benefit from truckloads of onsies.

With all of the expenses associated with having a baby, it is comforting to know that clothing will likely not be an issue. Diapers, wipes....now those are going to cost us.

Do I Go Green?

I am currently watching the "Rachel" Show- I think this is a first. Jessica Alba is on promoting her new company, Honest.com. A retail site for green and natural products for the home. It got me thinking...

I am lucky enough to have two women who help me clean (aka, I help by getting out of the house while they do a top-to-bottom scrubbing). A few times I've come home and they are still finishing up. The scents of cleaners are so intense! Normally, I would love that "clean" smell. But now with a baby, I can't help but wonder about what the fumes of these chemicals might be doing.

In recent weeks, months, I have tried to infuse my cleaning recipes with green and natural products (I know there is nothing better than vinegar and water). But then I wonder if it is really necessary. I grew up in a home with lots of chemicals (ugh, and cigarette smoke).

What do you think- is it worth the extra dollars to go green?

Being a parent is CRAZY hard

When you sit down to write about being a parent, there is no telling what direction your post might go in. Already this morning I've drafted about four different versions of this post covering everything from my pregnancy and delivery to our (my) challenges with sleep training (or lack of sleep training). It's hard to make these topics fit on one sheet of paper. Each topic has about a thousand relevant subtopics! So, to keep it simple, I decided to write a list of 5 reasons why being a parent is crazy hard...for me.

1. I don't sleep. Ever.

A coworker told me that after you have a child, you will never sleep the same again.

From the day our baby was born, I can count, on one hand (actually, on three fingers) the number of times I have slept for more than 4 hours). A good friend once said that all babies are good at something. That something, for our baby, isn't sleeping. When my baby has a "good" night, I feel like I am always on "stand by" waiting for him to wake up. When he has a "bad" night, well, I am just always up!

I am pretty sure I will never NOT be tired again.

2. Where the heck is my Mom-fidence?!

(I wish I could say that I invented that word but after one google search it is clear that I am not nearly as clever as I thought!) Ok, but seriously, why am I so insecure when it comes to this mom business? I have my moments of self-doubt in life but something about managing the health and well-being of a vulnerable helpless infant makes my insecure-o-meter go through the roof! I'm always wondering if I am doing something "right". I am always sure that I did something "wrong".

3. I'm not paranoid! I just worry...a lot!

"Is he cold?", "Is he hot?", "You know, they say that overheating can cause SIDS.", "Does he have to burp?", "Did I burp him long enough?", "Is his diaper dirty", "Is he still breathing- just put your hand on his chest to double check.", "You know what, now that I think about it, 'across the hall' is a lot further than I thought- let's get a video monitor."

4. Do I feel judged because I judge others? Probably.

I am judgmental. There, I said it. And I know that my judging is a weakness and only exposes a deeper insecurity of my own, but I'll stop there before I cannibalize another post....

When I see a mom with her car seat on the handle bars of a shopping cart I can't help but think, "Doesn't she know that you are not supposed to do that?!" and raise my eyebrows as I strategically place fruits and veggies around the GINORMOUS car seat that is in (not on) my cart and figure out whether or not we really need toilet paper on this visit. I don't really know what to say about this one other than that there are about one million things I can do in a day that will "damage" my baby. I am sure I am going to inadvertently damage my child in one way or another- if not physically than definitely emotionally. It's about choosing the "lesser evil" sometimes and I need to remember that before I roll my eyes at other moms who are just trying to make things work.

5. Never say never- no, really, don't because you will just look like a hypocrite.

I will NEVER say NEVER again as it relates to a parenting method (for example, I am pretty sure at one point I said, "I would NEVER do sleep training. Well....). I also used to make fun of (er, ok, judge) parents who used baby leashes. Now, as a parent, I 100% understand why someone would want to use a protective baby harness at a crowded, pedophile-filled amusement park (see, once you are a parent, you don't see it as a "leash" anymore and you do assume that everyone is a pedophile- ok, not really but....refer to point 3).

I think I also said that I would never provide unsolicited baby advice. Ever.

Hello? Anyone still out there....?

If a blogger apologizes to empty cyber space, but no one is there to read it, does it still make a sound?

First and foremost, to all three of my (at one time) loyal readers, I apologize. I could hand you any excuse in the book (I didn't have time, my creative juices ran dry, I got a new job, I quit a new job), but bottom line, my blog (and you) suffered due to my negligence.

A lot has changed in the last year (oh my god, has it been two?!). For one, I am a mom to a beautiful little boy and I am privileged to be able to stay home with him and watch him grow every single day. Needless to say, this seemingly small life change has fueled me with a lot of questions, comments, and opinions (that change every thirty seconds) that will no doubt make an impression on my writing.

I am going to keep this post short & sweet as I ease my way back into this creative forum. I promise to update as frequently as possible and now that I am a stay-at-home-mom, I have SOOOO much more time on my hands to just kick back, get creative and write.....you know, because I am home ALL day, sipping coffee and watching soaps...

I think I just identified my first official "welcome back" blog post! It will probably start with something along the lines of, "Mom, I am so sorry for never giving you enough credit."

Happiness Project, allow me to introduce you to my friend, Reality

I recently finished Gretchen Rubin's book, The Happiness Project. It was a good book...except for the fact that it made me feel awful.

Ok, slight overstatement.

There were a lot of generally good ideas in the book and nuggets of information that actually made me realize I am not alone when I make outlandish resolutions (like to start a blog...for example). But some of her anecdotes for happiness made me wonder how on earth I ever had a happy day in my life.

I finished the final chapter feeling challenged and anxious, inadequate and insecure. The charts, the "Splendid Truths" and the rules and requirements that are placed around deriving one's happiness seemed too strategic and forced and too complex and laborious to provoke happiness.

I felt as though her solutions for happiness were artificial constructs that provided her with a time stamped Visa to the country of happiness, but that she would never quite figure out how to get that passport (so poetic, I know).

She approached the attainment of happiness as I would a business-related presentation- using a formulaic strategy that required preparation, forethought, and action.

That, to me, is not happiness...

The subtext in The Happiness Project was more compelling. To me this reveals the commonly misinterpreted equation that perfection=happiness. But sadly, reality doesn't allow for perfection in everything and therefore, for those of us who have this algebraic formula genetically inscribed in our DNA, we are constantly left with a feeling of unhappiness or inadequacy.

Everyday I have to remind myself that it is usually quite the opposite; perfection doesn't necessarily equal happiness. It potentially means painful attention to detail, stressful second guessing, bar-setting, anxiety...

I am "type A" to a "T". Like the author, I aspire to have some elements of perfection in my life. I often make lists and add "to dos" that I have already done solely for the opportunity to cross items off my list and earn that sense of accomplishment. I get carried away with listing, organizing, accomplishing, doing, achieving, etc and I will admit that more than once while reading the book I thought that I should make a resolutions chart.

But the more I thought of the requirements the more I realized that they would only add to my innate anxiety and stoke the coals of my over-achieving nature. Instead, after reading the book, I am reminded of two quotes that I really should embrace more.

The first quote is from Patricia Moreno, the creator of an exercise practice known as Inten-Sati.

I am doing my best. My best is enough.

If I am stressing out, getting anxious, losing my temper or feeling like I am not making other people happy (for example, my boss) I have to tell myself that I am doing my best and that I am my ultimate judge and I tell myself that my best is enough. Maybe not for you, but for me.

The next quote was said by a former boss when we would spend days working on a proposal and it was time to submit.

Pencils down.

Although this meant to stop working on a pitch and to submit as is, I found this saying so refreshing. To me it meant that I have done all that I could possibly do in the time provided and that it was time to move on to the next project without regrets from the previous. I could easily spend hours revising and editing but there comes a point when you just have to hit "send" and move on. Or, in my personal life, when you just have to stop sweeping, mopping, organizing, folding, blogging and say...pencils down.

Another Great Morning Commute

As many of you know, my morning commute is probably one of the worst times of my day. Without fail, the train is crowded and people are easily aggitated when it comes to sharing such close personal space. But today's commute was just plain cruel. Here is why...

It was the first time in ages that I actually left my home early. It was a little past 8a and I was already making my way to the station. When I got below ground, I was surprised at how few people were waiting on the platform. I walked the distance of the platform to my usual spot between pillars 1 & 2 where I strategically stand in order to be right in front of the door to ensure that I can find room to stand.

So, when the train pulled up, I entered like I normally do and low and behold there was an empty seat!!!! Well, let me rephrase, there was a seat that some guy had his bag sitting on. This must be my lucky day. The only thing better about finding a seat is finding a seat with a bag on it so you can boldly tell the owner of the bag to move it!

That's just what I did. I tapped the guy on his knee and pointed to his bag that was taking up my seat. He moved it quickly and willingly. Just as I was settling in, pulling out my reading material, the most obscene smell came from my neighbor. But wait! It gets worse! Not only was it clear to me that this gentleman had not showered in ages, it was also clear to me that he was a narcoleptic commuter who proceeded to nap on my shoulder! At one point I finally said, "excuse me" and he moved over a bit, but it was only a matter of time before he was leaning back towards me.

Ok, I know most of you are saying, "it's your own fault, why didn't you get up?". Well, I will tell you why. Deep down inside I was hopeful that this guy might get off at the next stop. Additionally, I am so stubborn. I didn't want to admit defeat in the eyes of the PATH seat gods nor did I want to raise my white flag in front of all of the people I hurdled over to get the seat or give them the satisfaction of knowing that, although I had a seat, it was not one to be coveted.

I guess it serves me right. I am sure there is some saying that could come out of this like, "There is a reason the seat is empty" or "Never sit in the one empty seat on a crowded train"...ok, maybe we can go with the more traditional saying- look before you leap?

What's the Deal With Heels?!

Is it me or does anyone else out there have a vendetta against heels? I love the way they look, don't get me wrong, but I have finally come to terms with how toxic my relationship has become with heels, "You build me up and make my feet look great, my legs look long but then you break me down, step by step leaving me limping and lame, blistered and abused. WHY? Answer me!!"

For a night out, I will subject myself to this torture. Everyone is in heels and, just like alcohol, they make you feel great for the time being (and just like alcohol, they make you hate yourself in the morning...). But I am just beyond baffled when I see women running around my office in heels. Furthermore, I almost feel compelled to ask fellow commuters what possessed them to commute in stilettos when I see them on the train (than I realize they are probably coming in for an interview- and I guess you can't pull a shoe switcharoo between, "so tell me about yourself" and "why do you think you would be a good fit here"- although, I would be more than tempted to try this maneuver).

If your cubicle is anything like mine, than you probably have a mini shoe boutique under your desk with shoes that you have stock piled so you are always at the ready depending on what comes up during the day. My mini boutique consists of heels, higher heels, a grey-ish/slate colored pair of flats (that I think I have worn once), a random pair of rain boots, and a multi-purpose Steve Madden patent leather flat.

This last pair is my favorite. And by favorite I mean I wear them every. single. day. With few exceptions. In fact, I have worn these shoes so much, that they have actually started to lose their shape and will fall off of me mid stride. Albeit annoying, it is a true testament to my loyalty. I will be coming back for more, Steve-O, don't you worry.

However, recently, I just can't help but notice that as comfortable as they are, they offer nothing in the flattery department. My favorite, most well-fitted pants are a pair of Express "Editor" pants in black. But, my favorite Steve Madden flats, just don't do the trick with them. The pants pool at the bottom and make my legs look even shorter than they are.

I used to wear a 4in heel with these pants but I just gave up...they are impractical and too high when running around my office so for quite some time I convinced the somewhat fashion forward side of my brain with my "what's wrong with sweatpants" side of my brain that the shoes actually looked fine.

But the other day the better half of my brain chimed in and flat out told me..."Frumpalicious, you are seriously lacking in corporate couture by wearing flats with those pants".

So, somewhat begrudingly slash impulsively, I walked to the closest shoe store from my office (it happened to be Nine West) and tried on every black heel they had. And then I fell in love...

I came across the Classique Oaks heel.

The heel is only 2 inches high and the toe is pointed which gives it a little more formality than my round toe flats. This is just enough lift to lengthen my longer pants. But what's more...they are COMFORTABLE.

Ok, ok, I know that everyone says that their 125 inch heels are comfortable, "really, they are! I know, crazy, right? Most comfortable pair of shoes I own" (Gimme a break...they don't look any sexier just because they are comfortable so just be honest and admit that they hurt like hell).

I seriously think the Oaks line was designed with me in mind. Someone who would wear the shoe all day from meeting to meeting, from office to office, etc. The shoe actually has extra cushioning in the foot which just adds to the comfort.

Now, will you see me schleppin' to and from the PATH in these suckers...probably not (I am partial to my commuting Uggs). And I will likely not wear these out on the weekend. They aren't the sexiest pair of heels, but then again, are you really in the office to look sexy? On second thought, don't answer that...I know some of you too well.

These are the perfect working shoe that will save your feet while still maintaining the "put together look". They come highly recommended. In fact, I might go stock up on other colors :)

A New Favorite Beauty Product!

Ok, well the title of this post is actually a misnomer. I have really loved this product for quite some time but realized, just this morning, that I hadn't mentioned it on my blog!

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Intensive w. SPF 20; Deep Wrinkle Moisturizing Treatment

I like to use this moisturizer during the day. It isn't too heavy and absorbs pretty quickly so applying makeup is easy (and my skin isn't greasy). When you put this lotion on your face you can smell the SPF- which I actually don't like...I know it is for our own good to use an SPF, but I am not a fan of strong chemical smells (unless it is a chemical peel...in which case, chemical smells are welcome). But that is really the only flaw...

After using this product, my skin definitely experienced the "mild redness" and "a warm tingling sensation". Just as the tube says, I knew this was a sign that the product was actually working (and not just sitting on top of my skin like other lotions tend to do). After a few days, my skin adjusted and was definitely smoother, especially on my forehead where I tend to experience the most congestion.

I definitely recommend this product for the daytime. I feel great knowing that I have a hard-working SPF product protecting my skin while powerful anti-wrinkle agents are getting to work to decrease my current lines and creases.

And, as a side note, I don't like the idea of using an SPF cream at night. I think it is essential to have an SPF in your daytime lotions, but at night, I feel like it is an added chemical on my skin that really doesn't serve a purpose. Neutrogena has a Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Cream, Night Formula with retinol (a secret ingredient to some serious wrinkle wrecking!). I will have to try it! But in the meantime I have been using my tried and true Kate Somerville Oil Free Moisturizer. It is super light and I feel good about the fact that it is simple, fragrance free, and non-SPF. Sometimes I will go with something a little thicker if my skin is really dry, but this does the trick and it is perfect for the summer when you don't feel like slabbing on anything too heavy (yes, I know it isn't summer -YET! I am merely suggesting that as we start to think about our summer skin regimens over the next 4 months, we add this to the routine. What? You are going to tell me that you aren't thinking about your summer skincare routine? Liar.).

What's this?! Does Neutrogena have an Anti-Wrinkle Intensive Serum! Two words... Stay. Tuned.

A follow up to fostering

Hi All,
As many of you probably remember, I posted about fostering dogs. I mentioned that I get asked a lot about letting the dogs go after fostering. My response was that I get so many emails with lists of dogs in need that are going to be put down without our help. I wanted to send you a list that I just received this morning.

Most of these dogs can be found within the petlist.

**If you think you might be interested in fostering one of these guys, let me know!!

Hennesey – bt Male Boston 6 years,likes little dogs, not the big ones Sweet, loving and energetic boy with people. Housebroken easy foster , but is doing well running loose with Wanda’s dogs now. He needs a alpha person who doesn’t let him get away with anything. . HE is crate and leash trained. OK with cats that don’t run. He is a Seal or been out in the sun too long, hair in really coarse shape, beautiful dog. Update:he is a really nice dog who wants to please you badly. He has really changed from the dog I brought in here because I have been working with him. He is doing ok with the other dogs now and only has a scuffle every now and then. This is a really nice guy. He did lose some hair on his side because he got a staph infection, but it is coming back in. Doesn’t like being in crate and makes a racket, does fine with a baby gate.need foster

Honey Bear – Female Red Boston - 18 lbs, 1 year old. need help with housebreaking. ok in crate . Cats? She is very sweet, ok with dogs, but will jump on a dog if she thinks any dog is getting hurt, and will protect her human from another dog. She just needs someone to be the alpha with her. I bet she has potential to unlearn these behaviors. She may have had to defend her babies at the breeders:((( need foster

Ba-Dew-Si – Male Boston 1-4 years-23 lbs-Dogs good, no cats.-working on Housebreaking, ok in crate. sweet boy.was treated for HW, is ready to come!!!,need foster

Hot Buttered Rum male Boston 18 lbs-2 years. hb to doggie door dogs good. crate good. cats? - was treated for HW, ready to come now. He is a sweet boy! need foster

Liams Lucky Charm, male bt-7-10 years. 13 lbs, this one breaks my heart, he has a stage 3 heart murmer. Has maybe a disc or pinched nerve affecting his leg, he has a limp, and neck is sore. has a growth on leg that will be biopsied when he gets his dental next week. He is good with dogs, really sweet boy.good in crate no separation anxiety Need foster

Gilligan's Island- Male Bt-1 year , 13 lbs.Has Demodex, on meds NOT contagious. Very sweet boy, Puppy Like. adorable. Good w/ other dogs at Wanda's, crate good, Trained to Doggie door. Has undesended Testicle, will be taken care of when neutered, which will be soon. Need foster

Kirin- male bt-10 months,Puppy. owner surrender -Good with dogs, kids good. Crate good. Work on housebreaking. Need foster

Salt Water Willie-Male bt- 1-2 years,15 lbs-cats and dogs good. HB to doggie door. Crate good. very playful boy...sweet! Need foster

Scotch Daisy- female BT-18-20 lbs, 3-6 yrs. Dogs good, crate good. Hb to doggie door,sweetie. Need foster

Tiger Jack-male bt-18-29 lbs, 2-4 years.Good with dogs HB to doggie door,crate good.this boy is a little timid, but will warm up. Need foster

Zultry Zoe Cocktail- female bt- 3 years, 12-15 lbs.kids and dogs good, crate good. no pic yet.Work on housebreaking Need foster

Blog Ideas

Hi All,

Apologies, I know...my blog is outdated! I wanted to thank everyone who asked about my next blog post. Really, I appreciate this because it means you guys are actually interested in my rambling stream of consciousness (either that, or my parents are still paying you to be nice to me).

When I first announced that I was starting a blog, many of my friends said that they wanted to do the same thing but didn't know what they would blog about. The below post is a list of ideas that would make excellent blogs! So get inspired and blog away! If you have seen some of these blogs out there, share the link in the comments section so we can appreciate them!!

I know that this post is kind of lame, but stay tuned as I vet out some of these ideas as posts on my existing blog!

Forwards From My Parents:

An aggregated page that features the absurd emails sent to me by my parents (more specifically my father as my mom is not quite sure how the "machine" and "world wide web" work). These emails would include the inappropriate dirty old man jokes and marriage snubs, the influential political propaganda, and of course the, "Send this to any woman you care about!!! It could save her life!!!" (you know the one I am talking about...the unmarked police car and the secret number you can dial to see if there is, in fact, an unmarked police car in your area).

*I would like to take this time to apologize to everyone who has been tricked into giving my father their email address. Please let me know if you need a tutorial on how to activate your "spam" folder

Sayings I Can Never Remember But Insist On Using During Work Meetings:

Is it play it by ear or play it by year? How many of six is a half dozen and how is it the same? Is it point in case or case in point (and can I say "case in point" at the end of this blog idea as it is clearly "point in case" that I don't know these sayings)?

Er, case...in...point....?

Emails From My Boss:

Does this need an explanation? This would be a dedicated destination that invites users to forward those cryptic emails that lack direction or insight. Or that response to your initial email that asked 6 questions with two follow-up questions based on the condition and the response consists of simply "yes". Which brings me to my next blog idea...

Emails You Never Should Have Sent:

This blog would feature the passive aggressive email back to your boss with the "per my email" introduction. Or the infamous "reply all" where you mock your bosses inability to answer a set of questions.

Homes I'll Never Be Able To Afford...But Can't Help Looking At

This wouldn't be just a luxury real estate blog. It would be more like a "If I Had All The Money In the World" blog. Think ridiculous beach side villas and 50 bedroom, fully furnished mansions. Or this castle in Rhode Island that I stumbled across while looking for homes between $1m and $20m. How awesome would it be to say that you owned a castle...in Rhode Island?!?! Why, because you have all the money in the world...that's why!

Worst Job Descriptions Ever:

I need to give my friend Megan Yaps a shout out here as this idea originated as I was looking for potential job opportunities for her. I will leave you with this teaser, "Serve as primary liaison between me and my family". What?! They forgot to add "manage unimaginable family disfunction and serve as child psychotherapist."

Book Club Blog:

If you need a description, than you probably shouldn't create this blog.

My Daily Pet Peeves:

Everyone already knows my distaste for seat hogs on public transportation and backpack wearers on crowded subways, but I have an unraveling list of pet peeves that I would just love to share. This blog would showcase a pet peeve per day, one that I was subjected to while going about my business. For example, being stuck behind someone smoking a cigarette and every time you try to pass them, they speed up and every time you try to move off to a side, the wind changes and the smoke goes back into your face...

OR

The fact that there has been a couch sitting in my lobby for over a week and the (ex) owner of the couch doesn't even have the courtesy to post a note saying "sorry, we are in the process of moving, this will be out of the way shortly". And the fact that there are only 4 families in my building (and we have already deducted that it is not one couple's )so leaving an obnoxious note like, "For Sale" is not a question as their is no safety in anonymity. Well Mr. & Mrs. Inconsiderate...I hope you have a pet peeve about dogs, peeing on your furniture...because that is just what mine did (really...he did. Good boy Ry-guy, good boy).

Shows I Could Watch All Day:

This blog would list out TV guilty pleasures and would probably include shows like Rock of Love, House Hunters, House Hunters International, Hoarders, Intervention (I am convinced that these last two shows are addicting in and of themselves but must agree that watching them makes me feel SO much better about how messy my house is and how much I drank last night) ...

Real Life Legal Scams (can a "scam" be legal?):

This one comes straight from my husband. He just told me about a guy who bought 4 commemorative quarters for a dollar. He ordered thousands on his credit card and as soon as they were delivered, he put them back in the bank and gained loads of air miles from his purchase. Wait, something sounds scammy about this blog idea- I have a sneaking suspicion that I have just been scammed by my husband...which brings me to my next post...

Things That SO CLEARLY Need To Be Cleaned But My Husband Can't Seem To See Them:

I find that when we are cleaning our house, my husband lacks the pro-active, "go get 'em" attitude that I have come to embrace. I love when he claims that "we're good, everything is clean" while sitting on the couch on top of a pile of clean laundry that is not folded. Or when he asks me what else needs to be done while standing next to the coffee table that is covered in food and dirty dishes.

*For the record, he is so good when I kindly point out the things that could still be cleaned and I love how eager he is to help me clean when I ask. I asked his permission to recommend this blog idea.

Do you have any blog ideas? Share them in the comments section!

A New Resolution for the New Year!

Happy New Year everyone! Apologies for the lack of posts- I was too busy failing at my holiday cabbage soup diet to write.

So as we remind ourselves of our new year's resolutions to lose weight, work out more, quit smoking, drink less, spend less, I thought I would suggest we add "pay it forward" to our lists!

Here is a resolution idea...Foster a dog!!

(And let's be honest, why waste a New Years resolution on "drink less" when you will likely make that resolution weekly....usually on a Sunday...with a hangover).

Many of you know that my husband and I have had the privilege to foster two wonderful Boston Terriers. Each one of them have gone to loving forever homes and we know that we've made a difference in both of their lives.

Fostering dogs isn't for everyone (especially if you aren't a dog person, which means, you should probably stop reading now. Really, stop reading because unless you like dogs all I will do is embarrass myself).

People have a lot of questions when I tell them that we foster dogs, so let's start with those first.

Is it expensive?

It's as expensive as you want it to be. As a foster for Friends of Homeless Animals, all I am responsible for is feeding and walking the foster dog as well as keeping him or her safe (dare I add a "duh" at the end of this sentence?).

You are also asked to take pictures of your dog so that they can be posted on rescue sites to help in their chances of being adopted.

For our dogs we also invested in other essentials like a Polartec Puffy Dog Parka Coat from Trixie & Peanut, a turtle halloween costume, soothing oatmeal shampoo and leave-in conditioner, Omega-3 fish Oil, daily dog walking services...(What? Why are you looking at me like that? They are essentials.)

One of the most expensive responsibilities of being a pet owner is veterinary care. As a foster for FOHA, all necessary vet visits are reimbursed. By the time dogs make it to your home, they are typically in great shape as they have been nursed by experienced dog rescuers so major issues are usually taken care of before they get to you. Also, dogs are typically already spayed or neutered.

Is it hard to see them go?

No, never....says the girl who was crying in her cubicle when the official adoption papers came in for Pansie.

How can you foster a dog and then give them up?

Well, that's easy. Everyday I get anywhere from 15-30 emails about mistreated, lost, ill, and needy dogs that just need a home so they can escape kill shelters, puppy mills, and abusive situations. That helps me get over the bittersweet sadness of sending an adorable, innocent, and loving dog to a forever home to make room for the next little guy. Well, that and the fact that my husband is unfairly rational and reminds me that we are more valuable as a foster home for many dogs, than a forever home for just one dog.

Where do the dogs come from?

Everywhere! Both of our fosters (and many on the rescue list) have been rescued from puppy mills in Missouri (this state is considered to have the highest concentration of puppy mills according to this article written by the Senior Director of Government Affairs & Public Policy for the ASPCA). FOHA provides a transport for these dogs that will drive for days just to deliver these dogs to safe homes. Some dogs come as far as Texas, too! By car!

According to the Humane Society of the United States, anywhere from 6-8 million animals enter shelters each year. Half of those animals are euthanized. Put into context, I think I would opt for the 20+ hour road trip, too.

What if you have a problem with your foster dog?

No problem. Fostering is a challenge but I can imagine that some situations can be more challenging than others. If for some reason your foster doesn't work out, most foster companies will work with you to find a new foster home and a new dog that is better suited for your situation.

Can you keep a foster dog?

Why not? Actually...great question, we have never tried to keep a foster (and I promise that I never considered telling Pansie's adopters that she had run away and was no longer available for adoption but thought better of it when I imagined running into them on the street and having to introduce "Pansette", Pansie's long lost identical twin sister who we decided to adopt shortly after Pansie ran away).

I think it is important to realize how valuable you are as a foster home, but if you found the dog of your Lassie dreams, I don't think many rescue groups would say no (juuuust as long as you can do some fostering on the side ;)

So on that note, I thought I would leave you with some articles, photos and information in the event you are curious about fostering dogs. The links below are what inspire me to "pay it forward" and give these dogs a home that they deserve.

Are you thinking about getting a pet for your family? Fostering is a great way to experience having a dog to ensure that your family is ready for the responsibilities while doing a good deed for a dog in need!

First & foremost:

Pansie & Pearl- both of our girls were rescued from a puppy mill where they were used for mass breading. When we first got them, they were a little shy and skittish, but overtime they learned how to be real dogs!

Petfinder Pet List for Friends of Homeless Animals

Friends of Homeless Animals Website

American Boston Terrier Rescue Site (this site is managed by Wanda Jewell- I imagine she is better known as Saint Wanda by her canine rescues)

Dogs Smell Cancer (how amazing is this?)

Dog Saves Boy From Cougar Attack (I feel sorry for the cougar but I am a dog person, not a boy-eating cougar person)

Economic Euthanasia (so sad)

PS

I promise that this blog will return to the superficial side shortly...but the New Year's champagne must have gone to my head and I feel the need to be sappy!

Day 2...Exactly how important is the cabbage?

So day two of my mini-cleanse, diet, or whatever you want to call it. Annnnd, it isn't going too well.

I went shopping last night and bought all of the ingredients for the cabbage soup recipe...that is, all the ingredients except the cabbage.

Do you think that it is an essential ingredient?

So, I am now doing the mushroom, tomato, celery, green onion, green pepper...... diet. Oh, and I just had a chocolate croissant.

This is so not going according to plan...

If anyone is interested in following and doing this diet correctly, here are some deets.

Day 1: Cabbage soup and all the fruit you want except bananas. Drink unsweetened tea, black coffee, cranberry juice, or water.

Day 2: Cabbage soup, all the low-calorie vegetables you want (except beans, peas, or corn), and a baked potato with butter.

Day 3: Cabbage soup and a mixture of the above fruit and vegetables.

Day 4: Cabbage soup, up to eight bananas, and two glasses of skim milk.

Day 5: Cabbage soup, up to 20 ounces of beef, chicken or fish, up to six fresh tomatoes, and at least 6-8 glasses of water.

Day 6: Cabbage soup, up to 3 beef steaks, and unlimited vegetables.

Day 7: Cabbage soup, up to 2 cups of brown rice, unsweetened fruit juices, and unlimited vegetables.

Recipe (there are a few different variations on this):

1 package dry onion soup mix

2 bouillon cubes, either chicken or beef

1 celery stick (not the whole stalk), diced

1/2 head green cabbage, diced

3 carrots, sliced

2 bell peppers, sliced

6 large green onions, or 1 large yellow, white or purple onion, diced

2 cans of tomatoes, diced or whole

Cooking spray

Salt, pepper, parsley, garlic powder, soy sauce to taste (or any other seasoning you like)

Spray a large pot with cooking spray and saute all vegetables except cabbage and tomatoes until tender. Add cabbage and about 12 cups of water. Toss in bouillon cubes, soup mix, and seasonings. Cook until soup reaches desired tenderness; add tomatoes.

Day 1 of Post Canada Cleanse

Hi All,
As promised, I plan to share daily updates on how I am preparing for my New Year's fete! Last night was my last night of overindulgence (no, really, it was)! Unfortunately, we didn't get a chance to go to the grocery store so today I am working on a modified cleansing diet although, I am leaning towards the cabbage soup cleanse (The idea of unlimited consumption is really compelling).

Breakfast:
Green Tea with lemon

Lunch:
Chicken Noodle Soup with plain rice cakes

Snack:
Soy Yogurt (or low fat, whatever I can find in midtown Manhattan) with rice cakes

Dinner:
Black Beans, Soy Cheese, Tomato, Cilantro and Onion salad (um, that sounds a lot like salsa, huh?)

Everything (but the chix noodle soup) is from the GNC WELLbeING cleanse that I did a few weeks ago. This will be a good way to ease into the more challenging cabbage cleanse I plan to do.