Pay it Forward. Tiffany Style.

It's two posts today for the price of one? Or something like that. The point is....two new posts today, instead of just my usual one.

I've had some new blog visitors yesterday and today that have blown me away with how well they know me. They've told me I'm pretty, smart, generous and funny. I've read these comments wondering where the accolades came from. I mean, I know that I deserve them (snicker), but how did they know to tell me?

Being the great detective that I am, I figured it out. It's all a part of Tiffany's (R Family Diaries) Pay it Forward Game.

See, she was the lucky winner of my Twisted Giveaway necklace and in conjunction with another contest, she's Paying it Forward in a big way.

Head on over to find out how to win an Epson Picture Mate Portable Photo Printer. Be warned. It's kind of like a scavenger hunt. But without the scavenging. You'll love it.

And don't forget to tell her that she's pretty, funny, generous and smart, too.

Letter to Self

Dear Angie,

It seems a little strange to see you, my younger self. Writing to you is every bit as strange, yet a gift all the same. Here goes.

I know that criticism is hard for you take, it hasn't changed much in the last twenty years, except perhaps I/we do it with more grace? I hope that you don't take any part of this letter in anyway except in the way it was intended. With love.

It's been enlightening to see that many things have not changed in twenty years. We still have many of the same habits and routines. It is true that we are creatures of habit. Some things are just so ingrained in our being that time doesn't alter them. We still make the bed right when we wake up. Still unload the dishwasher and start the laundry first thing. Still hate wearing socks, and still have cracked and bleeding feet. Still wake up throughout the night wondering if they kids are OK or thinking about the ways in which you failed that day. Sound familiar? Need I go on?

Emotionally, we have evolved. We are stronger now. More empathetic. We have more experiences under our belt and have learned to deal with them in more positive ways. We are much more comfortable with who we are and are able to more fully focus on our goals. We are still working on patience. Perhaps that will always be a work in progress.

Physically, aging isn't as terrible as you thought it would be. Being able to do all the things that I need to is the blessing that my body has given me. I wish we hadn't always taken advantage of that fact. Just so you know, those wrinkles you are worried about are inconsequential, and going grey is not the worst thing in the world to happen, although why you are thinking about it now is beyond me.

I know that you want some ready answers, but I can't give them to you. I really feel that that would be a disservice to you. But, I would urge you to ponder more fully ways that you can be a better mother, better wife and better friend and relative. Perfection isn't important. Doing the best you can is. You know who you can turn to for help and answers. Always remember that.

I know that you want to know about our children. I won't reveal anything more than you know, which I know makes you crazy. You always did desire a magic ball. I can't give you that, but I can give you this: advice from older me to younger you.

I hope that you spend more time being introspective, more spiritual, more healthy. Better.

In 20 years we'll compare notes.

Your older, better, self.
Angie



To read more letters to self, or the answers to other prompts, visit Mama's Losin' It.

Wordful Wednesday

If you don't hear from me for awhile, I'm about to reveal why. I could very well have just signed a death wish by posting this picture. Yet I just couldn't resist.

You see, Jeff hates having his picture taken. He especially hates candid ones. In crowded places. While he's walking.

And I know it. Yes, I know it. That's why I love this picture so much.

It's just so heartwarming. My hunk being a good daddy and looking at me so endearingly. What's NOT to love?

Are We Done?

That seems to be the Golden question.

Admit it. You're wondering, too. Because I'm pretty sure it can't just be "in person" people who want to know.

Will there be an 8 Clown Circus? Or maybe even a 9 or 10 Clown one?

Nope, Nada, Nein.

Emphatic No.

I'm pretty sure not.

Not because I don't love kids, especially my own, but because we made the decision that our family was complete while I was pregnant with the twins. I should really say that I pushed the decision, and Jeff supported me in it, which will always mean the world to me.

He wanted more children, and frankly still does, I think. But I don't. And he respects that.

I feel like my hands are full and my heart is happy with our little 5.

But that's not all. While I was going through my last pregnancy it was so emotionally taxing that I felt strongly that I couldn't do it again. Even if someone could have given me a crystal ball and told me that I would have a easy pregnancy with absolutely zero complications, I couldn't do it, and I still feel that way today, almost 3 years later.

From the time I was 17 weeks pregnant until my babies were born 16 weeks later, I was a nervous wreck. (To read about why, visit here.) I felt emotions that are impossible to describe. I felt blessed beyond measure to be carrying TWO babies, yet I felt like my pregnancy was a ticking time bomb. I just didn't know if the bomb was active or a dud. I knew that if I lost the babies life would go on and I would be comforted. At the same time, I could barely bear the thought of not having my babies. At any given second my babies could have been wreaking havoc on each other in utero, and I was powerless to stop them. I felt utterly and totally helpless. And very few people understood. It was a very isolating time.

That pregnancy came after pregnancy #2 where baby was born with a virus I passed on to her and an induced labor where her heartrate was abnormally high for too long. And pregnancy #3 where baby had an irregular unbilical cord (2 vessels instead of 3) that caused many days of stress and fear, a CF scare and hospitalization as an infant.

Back to the the last pregnancy though. I made the decision to have aggressive inpatient monitoring for my babies. It was the best thing for them, but whether it was the best thing for our family I didn't know. I had no idea how my children and husband would deal with having me gone for more than 2 months.

I exercised a lot of faith that my family would be taken care of. I prayed constantly for the peace of mind that would tell me everything would work out well. That if it didn't I would be able to go on. I trusted that if I did everything in my power to ensure my babies made it until their scheduled premature birthday, I would get through anything. Or that if they didn't, that I did all that I could and that I would still have the strength to get through all the other things life threw my way.

Except another pregnancy. The thought of ever being pregnant again made me, um.... more than anxious.

And that sort of puts the cap on 5.

My hands are full, but my heart is fuller. And I feel content. So that's why our family isn't growing by 10 new toes.

Besides, we are already being eaten out of house and home.

So there.

The Golden Question has been answered. Now you can sleep better at night. You're welcome.

To read more answers to this question, visit one of my absolute favorite bloggers and mommy to 8, Octamom.

Oh yes. I almost forgot. The answer to the other Golden Question. We have a winner for the Twisted Silver Necklace. She must have stored up some luck because out of 166 entries, she won. Congratulations, Tiffany. Of R Family Diaries. Any chance we can share? You know, I'm thinking every other month, maybe? :)

Back to School

I had to do it. I had to do a back to school post. Despite the fact that every other mom blogger in the universe has already done one. After all, this is a mommy blog and I have to document milestones, right? Right?

I'm pretty sure my girls were the last kids in the world to finally go back to school.

But go back they did and they were SO excited. I am so thankful that both of my girls have a great love of school and head out the door everyday ready for a full day of fun and learning.

So, adieu my sweet girls. I'll miss you. Remember I love you, and know that this time away from each other is good for all of us (said with a smile). Work your little fannies rear ends off and take the year by storm. I know you will!




The winner of the Twisted Silver Giveaway will be posted tomorrow morning. Thanks for your patience.

More Giveaways

It's not surprising that the SITS girls are having another amazing giveaway. Ever heard of a Cricut Expression? It only does like everything. And I want it so badly. Scrapbooking, Vinyl Lettering, School Projects, and more.

Katydid and Kid is having an organic play dough set giveaway running through the 13th. You'll want to check this out. Natural Pod has an amazing assortment of organic and inventive toys and crafts for children.

Mom Most Traveled is having a great giveaway on Livie and Luca children's shoes. I've never purchased from this company before but they look fantastic. I'm a huge believer in buying good quality shoes and these look like they fit the bill perfectly.

Like photography? The author behind The Pink Potpourri is having a photo giveaway. The photos were shot by her very own mom so they are extra special.

Twisted Silver Giveaway

*This post will remain my top post for the duration of the contest, so be sure to check for regular blog posts below.

I am DELIGHTED to kick off September (how is it already September?) with an excellent giveaway.

My good blogging pal Mannequin of Fractured Toy recently introduced me to Twisted Silver, a jewelry company with versatile, funky, and yes, fabulous jewelry. I absolutely love their unique pieces. Little did I know that my great "in person" friend Laura's jewelry that I've been coveting for some time is from Twisted Silver.

"Twisted Silver is the imaginative trailblazer of the "convertible jewelry" movement. Belts become necklaces...become chokers... become multi-wrap bracelets! Rare is it to find a piece of jewelry always outside of the box, yet instantaneously fashionable and recognizable.
Because Twisted Silver lets you define how to wear the jewelry, your imagination is your only limitation."

I LOVE great accessories and here's your chance to win the Patchwork necklace ($80) from their latest collection. Start scouting the celebrity magazines, because you can bet a celebrity will be wearing it too.

To enter to win, visit Twisted Silver and discover your most coveted piece, or pieces. Then come back to my blog and post a comment telling me which piece is calling your name. Giveaway ends Sunday, September 7th at 11:59 EST. Shipping in the United States, only.

If you would like to post about this giveaway on your blog, post a separate comment letting me know that you have done so along with a link to the post, and you'll earn yourself another entry.

Also, I just got a sneak peak at Twisted Silver's newest necklace that will be launched on their site on September 2nd. Be sure to check it out as Twisted Silver offers a heavy discount on their new pieces during the lauch. You won't be disappointed. I promise.

Forgettable

Apparently, that's what I am. To some people at least.

Let me tell you about crazy lady from the park.

We have a neighborhood park. Like my neighborhood, it's off the beaten path and most people that visit the park are residents of the immediate area.

When we first moved here over 2 years ago I met crazy lady. She came right up to me, introduced herself and started in on her life. I quickly pegged her as annoying-woman-from-the-park and made the following note to self: Avoid. Avoid. Avoid. Now, I know that's not a very nice thing to think. I know that's not a very Christ like attitude, but I couldn't help it. I'm a highly social person. I love meeting new people and making new friends but I've learned to stay away from people who suck the energy right out of me with a single conversation. I knew right off the bat she was one of those women.

She told me she had 4 kids.

She expected me to be shocked and ask her how in the world she does it.

I didn't.

She told me she has a degree and used to work.

I'm pretty sure she expected me to be rather impressed.

I wasn't.

Me too.

We didn't hit it off.

Then I saw her at the grocery store. She introduced herself again and once again was shocked that I didn't fall all over myself with exclamations of wonder at the fact that she has 4 kids. Did I mention I have 5?

She didn't remember me from the park. I re-named her crazy lady.

3 more times I "met" her at the park. 5 times total I heard her story and 5 times total she didn't remember me.

The 6th time, I used the duck and cover method and that has worked for me ever since.

Last week my sister-in-law mentioned that she had met a woman from my neighborhood who knew me. She went on to describe crazy lady. I was flabbergasted. Crazy lady knew me? Cuz everytime we met it was like the first time. No recognition.

Then we ran into her together. Crazy lady recognized my sister-in-law right away. Guess who she didn't remember?

Yes, crazy lady, I've got it. You have 4 kids and you used to work. I'm still not impressed. And just so you know, I've never been that forgettable. But in your case, I don't mind being invisible.

Photo Story Friday-Lady bugs

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

Did you know that Lady bugs are actually called Lady Bird Beetles?

Have you noticed an influx of them in your yard too?

I've actually never seen so many in one place before.

I asked my resident Lady bug experts (my girls) why these Lady Bird Beetles are orange. They both told me seperately that they thought they were adolescents. I thought it sounded plausible, but I decided to look it up just in case. As much as I wanted to believe adolescents are just orange and adults turn red, I found out that this particular species is a Asian Lady Bird Beetle. They were introduced to The States by the Department of Agriculture to help control Aphids. Since they don't have natural predators here, they've flourished. And, they bite. Ours must be tame though (chuckle) because not one has dared to take a bite out of my little loves.

I don't care if everytime I got outside one comes inside with me, or that they can bite. I like 'em anyway. And my kids do too. Thank you, Japan, for giving us some Lady Birds.

Famous Footwear Winner Vlog

Wordful Wednesday-Painting

It's coming along. 3 sides (with the exception on one roof slope trim piece) are completely done. I'm loving the new colors. It appears as if others are too. I saw TWO people drive by yesterday taking pictures of the house. If I wasn't so flattered I would have flagged them down, for after all, they didn't ask permission. I mean, who does that really?

Wait. I do. I've been known to snap photos of random details on houses or in yards that I want to duplicate. Shhh. Don't tell.

This is my favorite part.....the front door (and my girls happily heading off to their first day of school in front of it). I always hated the original color. I LOVE this new one.

Look! My sugar maple is starting to turn. It's glorious decked out in it's full pink and red. I can't wait.

And here's before. With the nasty salmon colored front door and diarrhea (does anyone else have trouble spelling this word?) colored trim. Gone, all gone. (Insert sigh of satisfaction here.)

Crushes

I was honored to be asked to be a guest blogger again in September. Somewhere I've never guest posted before. As I was thinking about my post and what I have yet to write, the phrase "brown noser" came to mind. Please note that brown nosing on my part had nothing to do with getting the invitation. I promise. My brilliance just blew her away. And that's the truth. :)

Anyway, so that you have it in context, here's what I was thinking: The sentence (for the guest post) might go something like this: "I'm convinced that a little upfront brown nosing is never a bad idea. Especially when they think they are just doing something nice for someone else".

The guest post, by the way, will appear on the 16th, but I can't tell you where. I'm not sure if it's a secret.

But anyway, the term "brown nosing" reminded me of this girl named Melissa I had in High School French. She was very aloof, very pretty, very goth, and very intimidating. She accused me of brown nosing the teacher. Up until that point in my life, I had never heard the term. I was like, "huh"? But I tried to act like I knew what she was talking about so she wouldn't think I was a moron, but she saw right through me. So, she was kind enough to explain it to me. My "huh?" turned into a "huh!". I never knew my modi operandi had a name. Oh, yes......I flattered my way into others good graces even then.

Thinking of Melissa made me recall her boyfriend who shall remain nameless because, well, I can't remember. I'm not convinced I ever even knew it in the first place. But that's beside the point. I had a crush on him.....as in, he was an upper class man that was different and cool and so attractive, even though he was goth. I wanted a cool boyfriend just like him. Just smarter. I think he even talked to me occasionally.....which was OK because he wasn't the brightest light on the block. I didn't have to worry about being flustered by intelligent conversation from a cute guy.

And then I remembered my 6th grade crush. His name was John V. He was a 7th grader. We had 2 classes together and he sat right behind me in both classes since our last names were near each other in the alphabet. Now that I think about it though, I don't know why he sat behind me.....his last name came first. Anyway, there's a mystery that shall remain unsolved....he was SO cute, and he was nice. And he talked to me all the time. My crush lasted all year. He was always asking me who I liked and I always enjoyed telling him that I would never tell. Then one day my sister, my flesh and blood ratted me out. We won't even go into how mad I was at her. Then, he, Mr. John V. had the nerve to tell me he knew who I liked. Well, that was THAT. I never spoke to him again. I mean, I was MORTIFIED.

Which made me think of a crush I had on another guy my Freshman year. I had English with him and we sat on opposite sides of the classroom. I could tell that he was smart, even though he didn't volunteer answers. He was cute, AND he played basketball. He didn't know I existed, which at the time was fine by me. I was able to gaze at his unsuspecting face for a whole hour every day. He was also "taken" by my friend. Or so I thought. She had his name doodled on every square inch of school material she owned. I felt fine waiting to move in on her territory, then. I forgot about my resolve Sophomore year. Junior year I saw him a few times and recalled with nostalgia how he was the only guy my age that I thought was cute in the good ol' days. Senior year, I pounced. That chick from before was history.

And now we've been married a decade and we have 5 kids.


*Don't forgot to join me tomorrow for Wordful Wednesday. It's just not as fun without you.

Saturday Query

I'm finding myself in unchartered territory. I rarely get stressed out (unless it's life or death), so I'm really floundering here. This definitely is not life or death.

Alas, I need your help. Here's my query: When you are feeling temporarily overwhelmed and stressed out, what do you do to de-stress?

I think I just might just curl up in the fetal position with a good book.

PSF-End of Summer Project

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek

We're saying goodbye to summer and kicking off Autumn with a new color scheme for our exterior.

I can't wait to see the finished product. I know it's going to look fabulous. It looks fabulous already. Until then it's completely done though, this is one ornery mama.

Have I ever told you about my love/hate relationship with home renovations? It's simple.

The love part comes in when the project is completed. The hate part is every second until it's done.

Wordful Wednesday-Official Launch

If you'd like to link back here on your Wordful Wednesday, you can grab the HTML code from my side bar and enter it into your post so that the image above appears with the built in link back here.

John (above), Jacob (below)

My heart is swelling. I think that I have a few book worms on my hands.

Interested in some incredible recipes?

Ahem........and helping me to win a $100.00 gift card to Williams Sonoma AND a digital camera? This is your chance to discover 11 seriously delicious recipes and make my dreams come true. (Just kidding about that part.) Out of thousands-all right, I don't know how many submissions there really were, but, out of LOTS of recipe submissions, I'M A SEMI-FINALIST. The recipes were chosen by a Professional Chef and the Saucy Eats Founders, so having my recipe selected is a HUGE deal.

I'd like to encourage you (OK, beg you) to go vote. There* is * something in it for you.....for one, my undying devotion, and for another, well, 11 FABULOUS recipes. Saucy Eats is only a click away! Hope you enjoy the recipes as much as I know I'm going to. I'm the SECOND ANGIE, my recipe is the SALAD, not the mushrooms!

My recipe is found here, on my cooking blog, Cooking For A Circus Has To Be Simple.

Giveaways and Celebrations

Tiffany, one of the founders of SITS is having a 100th post celebration on her personal blog.....and it's one generous celebration, in true Tiffany style. I'm hoping to be the lucky winner of the $100 American Express card, but if I don't win, I'd love it if you did. If you're interested, head on over to R Family Diaries and tell Tiffany how fabulous she is. Because she really is.

If you are into jewelry, here are two great giveaways:

Mannequin of Fractured Toy is hosting a Twisted Silver giveaway this week. The winner will receive a really unique "Bubbles Bracelet". I'm thinking it's something I can't live without. Head on over for more details. While you are there, check out this post for a whole slew of giveaway opportunities.

Kiki and Lele of Kiki and Lele Handcrafted Jewelry are having a giveaway this week via The Secret is in the Sauce. For all the Saucy details, visit SITS and link over to their blog and Etsy shop.

Lastly, interested in trying those Pop'rs I told you about a few weeks ago? This week you have a chance to win yourself a set, too. Pop over to Eat Your Veggies for more details.

Comments

I'm super-bloggedy-blessed to have such a great circle of blogging friends. I can always count on YOU to brighten my day with a comment and feed my ego right when I need it, which is just about all the time. Thank you!


Casey and I had so much fun with our switch-a-roo on Monday. I was so impressed by so many of you who took the time to comment for her . Don't go dropping me for her now, though, you hear?

I've got meme's coming out of my ears coming up and a few more bloggy awards, too.

My little give-away got delayed, but that's in the works as well.......

So stay tuned.

And don't forget to join me on Wednesday for my Wordful Wednesday. I'm looking forward to it.

Photo Story Friday-Summer

Hosted by Cecily and MamaGeek
Oregon has the most beautifully moderate summers of any place I've ever lived. I just wish it lasted longer. Summer never officially *starts* until July and then it seems to end the first part of September. Certainly not long enough for my liking. We've had 3 HOT, and by that I mean with a high above 100 degrees, days this whole summer. 3.

This was one of them.