Frugal Friday: DIY Fire Starters

For my husbands Birthday I wanted to do something unique, but thrifty. For one thing he's hard to surprise and for another we were brokey broke.

I have a hard time throwing things away that I think know will be useful someday so I was relying on our stockpile of cardboard toilet paper rolls and jar of dryer lint to make something... "bomb". The irony didn't set in until Bob started asking me "what are you saving this for, dynamite?"
Cue me stifling laughter.

Anywho the finished product was impressive AND useful, just what I was hoping for. I wrapped it up classy in white paper and twine, clean. 

The second batch I made was for my badass mom who loves anything handy, tool-like, or crafty. Perfect. I made hers a touch more purty, the end result was extremely aesthetically pleasing, oh and just as functional. Amen!

Why would you want a fire starter, you ask? Because it makes lighting a bonfire super cinchy and looks neat-o, too. That's why.

The step-by-step is simple, here's how to make a batch of your own.

 

You Need: 

• Toilet paper rolls, I used about 8 each time
• Dryer lint, a pickle jar full worked for me
• Wrapping paper of sorts (gift wrap, tissue paper, paper towel, and construction paper all work well!) 
• Twine
• Scissors

1. Fill a toilet paper tube with loosely packed dryer lint. 

 

 

 

2. Set the filled tube on its side on the construction paper and roll,

as if wrapping a candy.

Place the rolled tube between your legs and tie with twine.

Flip it over and tie the other side, too.

 

3. Repeat until you have an army of gorgeous homemade gifts.

Happy (safe) burning!

 

Belly Rumblings

Image used with permission. This is a Sponsored Post for Liposuction.com

To Liposuction or not to Liposuction? That is the question. I've often, since having kids, thought about my options as far as removing skin and getting back to a normal looking, less jelly-blob-like stomach. In my research, after carrying twins and then having a 12 pound baby 14 months later (you can imagine what that does to someones stomach as far as stretch marks extra skin and the whole nine yards is concerned) I found that there is something that exists called a "mommy makeover" in the plastic surgery world.

Let me be clear about one thing: I am not advocating for plastic surgery as a solution for every weight and extra skin related problem. I am only suggesting that I have researched one single option in my quest to educate myself about all possible options, for my own sanity, well-being, self esteem and another things that truly concern only me. You get the benefit of hearing about it - oh faithful reader!

A mommy makeover  consists mainly of a tummy tuck, breast augmentation, breast lift and liposuction, with the goal being a body that closely resembles you "pre-baby". Check out liposuction.com for some encouraging before and after liposuction photos


I never liked the idea of having a C-section. I never wanted one. I chose in two instances to have one out of necessity. With my first pregnancy Twin B was not coming on his own. That would not have been an issue if Twin A hadn't arrived 22 hours before. We tried everything to start a second labor but it wasn't happening so off to the Hospital we went. In that case of my second baby, who was measuring at 34 weeks to be 10 pounds in utero - which means that she could've been anywhere from 8 to 12 pounds - was born at 36 weeks and weighed 12 lbs. 3 oz.  That birth was a C-section, too.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that I did see the point of a necessary surgery in both of those instances, the end result being the birth of my children and all.  

 

If I could look like Miss America, above, I'd be signed up tomorrow, but the truth is that not everyone will come out looking 100% flawless, and that isn't a good reason to go under the knife if you ask me. I whole-heartedly support improving ones self in order to live a fuller, happier life and enhance the life of those around you, though!

 

If Liposuction is definitely for you, or something you're considering please check out Liposuction.com. They have a plethora of talented surgeons to choose from, as well as an extensive surgery menu. Beyond that they can help you calculate your general costs, assist in picking the right surgeon for you, and answer any questions you might have.

For now, as I am still considering having more kids, altering my diet and trying to live a healthier life all while getting adequate amount of exercise and rest is what works for me. But who is to say the future won't bring with it an opportunity for me to shed some new light on my post-baby bod? Pun definitely intended!

Mothers Day 2013

Feeding Ayara "real food" on her first Birthday, because I forgot.

 

Here are some things you might not know about my mom:

 

1. She loves power tools.

2. She graduated from Davenport University.

3. She was born in the town where she still lives.

4. If the sun's shining, she's in it.

5. Butter Pecan ice cream is her weakness.

 

And all of those things are interesting and good,

but none of them speak to the amazing woman that she is.

 

Not only is my mother beautiful from the depths of her core to the tips of her hair,

she is funny and compassionate beyond belief.

She does not get, nor expect, any credit for the hard work she does at two jobs.

In fact, she's working today! 

She gives, and gives, and gives some more of herself, her time, her posessions.

All without hesitation.

She is quick to forgive and humble beyond belief.

 

In short she prepared me well to be the mother I am today.

Not every mom gets a role model worthy of awards and praise

... but I did.

 

Thank you mom.

I love you, on Mother's Day and always.

 

 

I also need to send love to the other moms in my life, whom I adore and respect, too: my mother-in-law and step-mother. I appreciate your strong and courageous ways. Thank you, I love you.

On Fitting In [a mommy rant]

I've been wondering lately why I feel like I don't fit anywhere. I feel like the habits I create for myself set me apart from everyone. I can't nail down my clothing style, I don't have a way that like to wear my hair, nothing feels comfortable. Then today I heard a quote from MarkandAngel.com about values that you once had not always fitting your life. There comes a time when you have to change and adapt to what is now important. They went on to say that when that happens you probably will get very uncomfortable because nothing seems to "fit" and I thought "BINGO!" this is me.

As someone who has studied and majored in the practice of Social Work, I understand the value of seeking out counseling and having those services available. That being said, lately I've been seeing a counselor of my own. She's helped me to recognize that there are a lot of things about me that I want to be different, and ultimately I'm the only person holding myself back. For example I'd love to use my brain more, take a class, and be creative.
I'm quite certain there's an entire hemisphere up there turning to mush.


Along with caring for my family, I also need to care for me. What a concept, huh? In fact it's imperative that I be functioning, and well. Gone are the days of calling in sick, or anyone giving a shit if I am for that matter. It's important to remember that self-care is just as or more important than caring for others. I thrive on being able to help other people, it makes me happy, it makes me tick, but I often forget to at least take care of my own basic needs. Case-in-point: I was just making smoothies for my husband and my sons; he was going to take them rollerblading and by "take them rollerblading" I, of course, mean push them in the stroller while wearing Rollerblades which, by the way, were only $3.00 at a garage sale- score! but regarding the smoothies that I mentioned... I made one for my husband and one for each my sons and then I realized "hey! there's none for me!" which I quickly fixed by doing some liquid-in-glasses-juggling but it simply proves my point that I don't do for me. But I'm going to! At least I think I am. After all: If not me, who? If not now, when?

SO all of this is a very round-a-bout way of saying I HAVE A NEW GOAL! Which I love, also, having tons going on is easy for me to juggle, it's the slow slum that gets me down. Can ya believe it?

And the new goal is, drum roll please: take a class! A.K.A: use. my. BRAIN! I've always wanted to take a cake decorating class. Ever since I went to church camp in elementary school and decorated a mini cake with a professional I thought it would be SO FUN! I've signed up at JoAnn Fabrics, getting started is the first step and biggest step, and it starts in June. I'll keep you posted on my progress!

What goals have you set lately? Are you currently working toward them?

 

 

 

 

Easy Diaper Changes. [I swear!]

The Following is a Sponsored post from ZIPaboo.

Picture this: you're cozy in your bed, sound asleep and suddenly you hear a whine, no a whimper really. You get up to investigate only to walk into a child's room that smells so foul like poo it literally reaches up and slaps you in the schnoz. Bam!

 

Panic sets in. How will I change this diaper without waking up the baby?! And then, you remember you were smart enough to order a ZIPaboo onesie for your child and all is going to be oh-so-well because he/she's not going to feel a thing! Oh yes, go ahead and pat yourself on the back. You've done good.

 

What? What's that you say? You don't own a ZIPaboo yet? Well shame on you, first of all, and let me tell you why.

"Zipaboo is the patent-pending baby footed onesie that makes diaper changes a ZIP! Zipaboo has a strategically placed zipper that starts at the base of one leg, circles the belly and moves back down the opposite leg; allowing for a quick and easy diaper change at any time! Once unzipped, the fabric flap folds forward and gives the parent immediate access to the infant’s diaper without exposing their chest to the cold air or tugging at their legs. Simply place their legs back into the onesie and ZIP! The days and nights of trying to align a zillion snaps or cram your baby’s leg into an awkward zippered pajama leg are over! Change your baby’s diaper quickly, conveniently, and comfortably with Zipaboo!" From site.

Also a huge plus: "Zipaboo are designed and created by using the finest Peruvian Pima cotton; known around the world for its unparalleled softness and radiant luster. Peruvian Pima cotton is incredibly soft, durable, and extremely resistant to pilling." In fact, mine looks better after being washed! Whadayaknow?!

Don't take my word for it, win one for your baby and rest easy. You deserve it, smarty pants.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Belly Love

The warm and wonderful sun is upon us, that means lighter eating and tastier, fresher recipes - yes!   Here are three that satisfy my entire crew! No joke, the baby devoured them all, as well as the twinkies, myself and the hubs. Score! __________

 

Classic 'Green' Smoothie

This is out-of-this-world tasty. You will not I repeat, for the skeptics, will NOT know there is Spinach in this! Promise.

 

1 C. Frozen Berries - I used strawberries and blueberries
1 C. Soy Milk or Milk Alternative
1 t. Vanilla
1 T. Cinnamon
1 T. Honey
Handful of Raw Spinach

It will be more-or-less green depending on how much spinach you add.
Blend until smooth and Enjoy!

 

__________

 

Afternoon Pick-Me-Up

 

A little carb, a little sweet, perfect "final stretch" boost of energy! I need this more and more as days with toddlers keep extending. Wonderful on one hand and "wth happened to my 7:30-in-bed-no-matter-what tots?" on the other...

1 C. Shredded Wheat, unfrosted
1 T. Raw Honey

1 T. Cinnamon
3/4 C. Soy Milk or Alternative

Pour and Enjoy!

Hint: add honey before sprinkling cinnamon for extra sticky power.
100% pure, clean eating.

 

__________

 

Anytime Oatmeal with a Twist

 

This protein-packed snack is great for a famiyl breakfast, packs up easy for a picnic, and stores simple for tasty leftovers!

 

2 Cups Old Fashioned Oats
3 1/2 Cups Soy Milk, Almond Milk, Coconut Milk or Combination
1/2 Cup Pumpkin Purée
1 T. Cinnamon
1 T. Turmeric
1 t. Nutmeg
1 t. Vanilla

Combine everything over high heat and being to a boil. Lower heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Sweeten with raw honey. (Except for babies under one! Enjoy!

The combination of honey and cinnamon is good for just about anything that ails you. You can read about some of the health benefits here. Turmeric has an enormous list of health benefits as well, including arresting and even reversing cancers!

 

If that doesn't make you feel like you're doing something awesome for your family, I don't know what will! Have a healthy summer and also, enjoy some pictures of my girl lookin' a hot mess in some sunshine and smoothie goo:   I told ya she liked it!