cop that// TOH Picks the Best Tools For Mom | Hand Tools | Tools and Products | This Old House - 1

TOH Picks the Best Tools For Mom | Hand Tools | Tools and Products | This Old House - 1

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the REAL secret of all mommies

The real secret of all mommies is that sometimes there isn’t enough of us to go around for everyone all at the same time.

Yes! Mothers do have an unexplainable unconditional undying unwavering love for their children. That love inspires us to go the extra long mile even after sleepless nights, wade through every fluid excretion known to man, woman and child and helps us find our way to greater resilience and resourcefulness. I like to think that this comes not from me - because that would just be way too much responsibility for one mom. But rather, it comes from love, the divine way we were created and the love that my children inspire in me. I feel that my role as a mother + daughter has taught me more about love - real love - than any other in my life.

However, and yes here it comes, we don’t won’t can’t always do that with a smile on our faces and a bounce in our step. That too is a valuable relevant lesson for our children to learn. Moms are people too.

One of the really important things that a mom has to teach her children is that they exist as 1 individual that is part of a wider community. At home that community is their siblings and family. Outside of the home that can be a classroom, a team, a pack, a club or a group of friends. Understanding that goes a long way to combating this pervasive sense entitlement that seems to plague society, that feeling that I want it therefore I must have it.

The lesson is also relevant for children as it sets realistic expectations and examples of how to manage other people’s expectations of them. Understanding that no one person can possibly be all things to all people all the time can go a long way to informing their expectations of other people. Understanding that love inspires the desire to be all things all the time to those very special loved ones and while we may not always be able to be there, we always have the desire to do so.

Understanding what people REALLY need from us is very important. Sometimes what we give out of habit and reflex may actually be damaging and a greater lesson can be learned and greater love given by giving people what they really NEED. Sometimes people feel they need ALL of us when what they really need is a listening ear, a word of encouragement and a warm whole-hearted hug. You may, by giving them “less”, provide them with the opportunity to learn that there is an even greater potential, power and strength within themselves. I know sometimes it is really painful to watch those we love going through challenging and watching our children stumbling through acquiring new skills but sometimes allowing them to fall is a more valuable and lasting way to learn the lesson than preventing the fall.

Also of value is the understanding that investing in one’s own peace of mind is a key element and foundation to being able to give and give more wholly to those we love. But that’s probably a whole different post altogether.

Good Parent// conception, pregnancy + beyond

When you started planning the vacay it seemed like a lot of good fun but a little planning goes a long way to making sure that the trip with the family is a success and a good time for all.

[1] Choose flight times wisely. The best way to get your trip off to a successful start is to pick a time when your child is most likely to be asleep. If possible, book a flight that coincides with naptime, or, when travelling longer distances is required, consider taking a red-eye. It could just the right thing to ensure sweet slumber en route to your destination.

[2] Pack light. Plan ahead so you can pack less. Ask the car rental companies if they provide a car seat along with your car. Check with the hotels about the availability of playpens or arranging stroller rental during your stay. But I have to tell ya that having a stroller to lug those toddlers and younger has been priceless. Most airlines will check them planeside free of charge and don’t count them as part of your baggage allowance. Especially with today’s rigorous security checks, being as hands free as possible on your journey can really make a difference.

[3] Avoid the crash. Pack snacks for eating on the go (and that are NOT messy) and avoid the sugar crash that can come from juice overload by stowing plenty of water. Seek the healthiest airport food option. Airport food is often not only ridiculously expensive, but also more likely to be highly processed and full of sugar. Healthy munching and being able to simulate a schedule as close to home will keeps the meltdowns at bay. Suggestions for items you can pack from home: whole wheat crackers, cheese, raisins, oatmeal cookies and granola bars…Grab as you go through the concourse: fruit - especially bananas, whole wheat bread, pasta.

[4] Make your toiletries to go. Travelling with the troops is one of those times when less is more. Look for reusable travel kits with pint-sized containers so that you can carry just the right amount and no more of theirs and your favorite products. Or save small bottles and containers that would be perfect for travelling. Also carry a little container of dishwashing liquid to clean out the bottles, nipples etc. Microwave sterilizing bags can also be super compact + helpful.

[5] Dress for success. Err on the side of comfort over style for your journey. Pack separates that mix, match and layer easily. Spills are inevitable and you are rarely in charge of the climate control. Be sure to pack extra outfits in case of accidents. Also dress them in clothes that can hide stains from playing in the airports and on the airplane. Patterns, prints, checks, stripes are great camo for stains.

[6] Make them part of the team. If your child is big enough to have his or her own bag, suit them up! Give them their own pint-sized backpack or rolling bag to stow fun activities, snacks or a fave toy or blankie. Consider a Trunki Ride-On Suitcase is not only colorful and kid-friendly, it has a contoured shape that turns it into a seat. Do NOT let your kids carry any heavy or bulky toys as you will end up carrying them as well as the child. Truss me! Talk through the process of check-in and security checks ahead of time and give each child an age-appropriate task. They can be extra hands that help all of you get through the trip!

[7] Bored kids are restless kids, so bring along plenty of quiet but interactive activities that will engage your children during travel. Depending on the age, the magnetic board puzzles, little storybooks, puzzles and games are great to keep them entertained for a good while.

For really long journeys consider carrying along your own personal DVD player and favourite movies. You can also rent movies from iTunes for your ipod. Although most long flights will air a movie there is nothing like ‘that’ special one to keep the good times rolling.

[8] Plan for the potty breaks as a part of the trip so that you will have enough time because when you gotta go you just gotta go. Did you just got your toddler out of those diapers? Congrats! Now make note of every possible potty stop available in sight. Chances are you’ll need it. Bring a portable potty seat to keep a little something in between the germs your precious potty user. Make sure you carry plastic bags for soggy moments because little accidents will and do happen.

[9] Pack your extra ears. Don’t forget to pack the baby monitor. It will free you up to run that load of laundry or a glass of wine poolside with your honey while your child is napping. Consider options that offer video feed as well as audio and vibrating alerts, for that little extra peace of mind. Some even provide temperature readouts.

[10] Plan for life’s little emergencies. Being on the road with a sick baby is never a fun trip but being prepared can go a long way to getting you there. Pack a little medical emergency kit with your own supplies at home or pick up a ready-made version at the pharmacy. Be sure to include a nasal aspirator, digital thermometer, medicine syringe, nail clippers, emergency information card, saline nose drops, gauze, disinfectant, Neosporin, Band-Aids and Panadol. A small First-Aid manual isn’t a bad idea either.

Travelling may not be as easy and care-free as it was pre-parenthood but travelling with the family can be a great way to open their eyes to new experiences, learn about the great big wide world around us and create lasting memories.

what we already know

Sizzling Skin in the Sizzling Heat

Howdy,

Is it just me or has the heat gotten progressively worse over the past couple of weeks? I have been peeling myself out of bed sake of this heat and dust. I have also noticed that my usually perfectly behaved skin has started to act out like a teenager entering puberty. I refused to believe that I couldn't wear all those pretty summer dresses with the back, shoulder and a little cleavage out? I refused to look anything but hot in this heat. I became a mad scientist reading all the labels to see what had too much oil and what perfume might be causing these reactions and then with a little research and some help from my Mom (lord bless 'em) I realized that it's not so hard after all.

Please see the following tips

1] Exfoliate: I used to think this was for like your elbow, knee (you know the rough areas). It does not matter if your skin feels smooth the fact of the matter is that it's summer and your skin is going to produce a lot of oil that will get trapped under all those dead skin cells that you shed daily. So scrub away but as with everything else in life. Please scrub in moderation you will not be silky smoood overnight

2] Hydrate Hydrate : This little tidbit might seem common sense but many women feel that because of the oily skin induced by the heat they can skip the moisture section of the beauty regimen. This is a major no no. Look for a light lotion and do away with the thick body butters. Gels are a good way to go. Apply right out of the shower to increase how much is absorbed by your skin.

3] Don't forget the feet: In my last post I told you that stock up on the sandals for this summer. So please go get a pedicure (try a beauty school for low prices). Try and pick a nice summery colour as just like clothes the right colour nail polish can set your outfit and your complexion off.

4] Sunscreen is a must on the Team: it's an age old myth that those of us caramel complected or darker do not require sunscreen. That is the most dangerous thing to believe . With melanoma on the rise Always! Always! Always wear sunscreen. Throwout last year's own and get a new bottle.

These tips apply for both men as well as women (except the nail polish ting). So feel free to get your sizzling skin on and dazzle them. Please see some of my yummy finds below:

1] Bath and Body Works Aromatherapy Orange and Ginger Energy Spray . (loves it)

2] St. Ives Apricot Scrub (tried and true) they have for sensitive skin

3] O.P.I. Nail Polish I love the pearl base and the wide range of colours are awesome

4] Johnson's &Johnson's Shea and Cocoa Butter Body Gel (smells yummy)

5] Vaseline Cocoa Butter Body Gel

Tips:

* Apply all gel's right after shower

*If you get a tan and your skin tone no longer matches your foundation. Try mixing a little bronzer in the mix that should help even things out.

Faith and Love,

Mamachel

Good Food// Because life is too short for bad food

With an abundance of carrots coming out of the garden, we in the kitchens of Skyline Café got to baking sweets for our sweets.

Mama Gina’s Carrot Cake Sandwiches

INGREDIENTS

1 stick unsalted butter (1/2 cup)

1-1/4 cups all purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

½ tsp cinammon

1 tsp nutmeg

1 tsp ginger

½ c brown sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp almond extract

1-1/2 cups grated carrots

Cream cheese frosting any brand or whip up your own (see recipe below)

DIRECTIONS:

[1] Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter and flour a loaf pan.

[2] Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg + ginger in a large mixing bowl.

[3] Break out the electric mixer, and in a separate bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy; beat in eggs and almond extract. Mix in grated carrots.

[4] Gradually add flour mixture and mix until just combined.

[5] Pour batter into prepared pan; bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 40 to 45 minutes. Let cool in pan 5 minutes. Turn cake out onto a wire rack, and let cool completely.

[6] If frosting is refrigerated take out and let sit on counter for about 5 minutes so that it is easier to spread.

[7] Cut carrot loaf into slices. Spread icing liberally in between slices and share with joy. Don’t forget to lick the icing off your fingers ; >

Mama Gina’s Cream Cheese frosting

INGREDIENTS

8 oz plain cream cheese

1 c confectioner’s sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

*for richer creamier frosting 1 stick butter + another cup of confectioner’s sugar

DIRECTIONS:

[1] Take cream cheese out of refrigerator for 2-3 minutes and let sit in a mixing bowl.

[2] Sift confectioner’s sugar into bowl and beat with mixer on low until creamy.

[3] Add vanilla and mix for another minute.

[4] Spread liberally and lick with a smile.

Good Love// cuteness

>>>http://www.snotr.com/video/2630

cop that// all the sweet little somethings that you just have to have

You make a million little sacrifices every day...

no need to sacrifice style, comfort or Mother Earth

while you are out there conquering it all>>>http://www.keenfootwear.com/product/ss09/shoes/women/market%20street/madrid%20mj/topaz

Today, my mind is stuffy…

Today my mind is stuffy not unlike my body. My sinus is riddled by allergies probably brought on by soaring temperatures in Kingston the air above which has been stifled by a blanket of smog more akin to cities celebrated for their poor air quality like L.A., Beijing and Dubai. Here in my fourth pregnancy, the expected overly active mucous characteristic of the third trimester of pregnancy has responded to these conditions with a vengeance that rivals some 13^th century dark lord of eternal doom.

My energy also has taken a nosedive. Thank God and my husband for a rare day that didn’t require me setting foot in my car and coming off this hilltop called home and affording me the rare luxury of naps. That’s right you read correctly that was “naps” plural…not 1 but 2. Even with the 2 naps I still found myself feeling like I needed to be scraped up off the floor in order to get dinner together which while yummy was no great gastronomic feat. Chili (black beans, black-eyed peas and chicken mince) atop a bed of plain rice topped with cheddar and surrounded by a ring of shredded lettuce, salsa and corn tortillas chips.

Again, thank God for small mercies. “Bedtime” clocked under an hour this evening and was blissfully absent of crying, screaming or issuance of ultimatums. Somewhere upstairs in the peace of this quiet house, I hear my eldest, exactly 1 week shy of 14 years old, packing his bags to go away for what seems like will be an eternity. I remember his birth as though it were yesterday. Everything was perfect, I wouldn’t have changed it, not the 3 days of labour, not the mad dash to the hospital, not the body-defying wait for the arrival of Sondra our midwife while he was crowning eager to burst into this world, not one thing would I change.

His father and I went our separate ways when the budding teenager was the tender age of 3. Ever since then, I have been what the law deems the ”primary custodial parent”. I was there when he took his first steps into “big school”, I was there when he stuck a potpourri pellet into his ear requiring a trip to the ER for removal – much to the chagrin of the resident on-duty. I was there through every wheeze and cough of the asthma that plagued his younger years. There through all his phases, the angry confused kid that missed his dad, the hot wheels freak that just HAD to have at least 5 or 6 stuffed in his pockets at all times, the times he announced he had renamed himself, his love of the sea, his love of science, his unique eclectic beyond his years taste in music and food, his disdain and agony with math. He spends his summers, every other Christmas and Spring Break with his dad and enjoys a close relationship with him.

He has been there as I transitioned from working actor to teacher/dues-paying journalist. He was there when we got our first apartment for “Just the Two of Us”. He was there when I had the mini van that blew a head on a wrong turn down the Florida Turnpike. He was there when I had the little blue Toyota Corolla with the grey patches whose a/c wasn’t what you would call effective. He was there when I took my first “real job” in publishing, when I stepped up to the “second-hand new” Altima whose a/c blew damn near frosty. He was there when I fell in love and got married. He was there when we embarked on our adventure and return to Jamaica to start a life as a blended family. That was 6 years ago.

Through it all he has possessed my true, unwavering and abiding love.

After much agonizing and tearful consideration, it has become clear that the best thing for him is to watch him pack his bags and start a new life with his dad. His dad now has what will be the best educational opportunity at this critical juncture. Next year his academic performance is officially on the books. It will be the measuring stick by which he will be judged. It will determine opportunities and possibilities. In short, it matters - BIG.

Although I know it is the best choice of the array of choices before me, it is still a bittersweet one.

I have played mind games with myself over the past couple of moments in preparation for the inevitable. I have remained focused on preparing him for finals, gathering documents, familiarizing at her request his new step mom (an angel) with his likes and dislikes. I have tried to celebrate the fact that the role of “the full-time ball-busting parent” will soon be relinquished for a role of the “fun-time vacation parent”. All smokes and mirrors people, for inside a little piece of me is truly dying.

A piece of me is wrought with worry. Will his dad REALLY be able to guide him through the minefield known as adolescence or provide the guidance to support him to maximize the opportunity? Will he WANT to come “home” for the summer holidays? Will he still need me?

Just as the tears start to well up in my eyes, he comes down the stairs with a wistful forlorn look on his face, “Umm mom my stuff won’t fit. I think I’m gonna need your help”.

Hmm. Perhaps all is right in the world after all.

Michael Jackson Tribute Jamaica

The Video isn't so great .. but its only fitting that i add this:

Good Green// eco tips that fit your life

Living a more environmentally conscious life doesn’t have to stop at home. Take your green lifestyle on the road with you as you venture to your summer vacation destination.

[1] Research your destination before leaving home.

[2] Keep your travel as close to home as possible.

[3] Before you leave home, make sure you unplug all unnecessary power appliances. Even when they are not in use, home appliances that are left plugged in use “vampire energy” to operate things like standby modes and displays. Don’t forget the television, your computer and it’s easy to overlook things like the water heater and washer and dryer.

[4] If you’re travelling by car, try to source a hybrid option. Ensure that tires have correct air pressure so that you are ride is as fuel-efficient as possible. Taking to the air? Look for direct flights wherever possible. You can also purchase carbon offsets from a number of providers. Also, consider supporting an airline that offsets its carbon emissions. Basically, you pay a small fee that essentially purchases credits towards environmentally friendly energy programs that generate wind, water and solar power. By purchasing these credits, and supporting these programs, you are offsetting' the impact of the energy used to travel to your destination.

[5] Once you reach your destination take advantage of opportunities to walk, ride a bike or take public transport. These can provide an up-close look at your destination while reducing your impact. Naturally, compromising safety is NEVER an option. So be smart about your choices.

[6] Continue the good habits you’ve started at home. Stick to the 3 “R’s” Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. Unplug appliances and chargers in the hotel room. Bring and fill up your own re-useable water bottle. Many hotels offer cold and refreshing spring water dispensers. Ask your hotel not to change your bed linens and towels every day. Most hotels already have these programmes in service. Turn the thermostat back a few degrees, the savings in energy really makes an impact.

[7] Think globally ac locally. Whenever possible just as you do at home, eat as much locally produced organically grown food. Eating local cuisine is not only fresh and delicious but reduces emissions created and energy used in the transport and production of the food we eat.

[8] Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Support responsible tour operators who support and give back to the local economy while maintaining eco-friendly practices. Consider spending a few hours or a day giving back to a local charity or volunteer tourism experience. Giving back to the people who have shared their lives and home is a great way to experience local culture and even foster lasting relationships and memories.

[9] As you get out and about in your vacation destination be sure to leave it like you found it. Don’t remove flora and fauna and protect of the natural beauty of your destination. Remember at all time that you are a guest and your visit is a privilege.

[10] Buy locally. It supports the local economy and reduces the need for imported and exported goods, major contributors to the carbon emission problem. Don’t forget to buy carefully. It’s easy to unknowingly support the trafficking and sale of endangered species or the destruction of habitats. Handicrafts make unique and meaningful souvenirs, but avoid animal skins, shells (whole, or jewelry), coral and bone or ivory (often seen carved into figurines). Amazing pictures, memories and stories are really the best way to make the most of your trip.

Most of all stay safe, have fun and make special memories.

Good Looks// Looking good while doing you

Looking good and staying cool....

Salutations,

I recently went on a little research mission to see what best fashion advice to give on Mama G's blog. I must admit that at first I looked into mommy fashion and soon realized that I was going in the wrong direction. Why is mommy fashion different than any other regular woman fashion? Don't get me wrong I do know many of you are superwomen saving the world one boo boo at a time. But it is now my firm belief that any and every superwoman needs to look the part. So let it be said in my introductory post that you won't get any "mommy fashion" round 'ere. Mamachel is bringing only the hotness.

Speaking of hotness. It's seven degrees past hell in Jamaica and I know its the same elsewhere we're all looking for a way to look and stay cool while keeping it simple. I have found a few tried and true items that fit this category. The summer dress can not only help you do this but also be dressed up for a fun day flirty look or a hot nighttime party with as little as a belt of a chunky chain. Fun bold colours all over are definitely working this season. If you not feeling the one piece outfit and like to mix it up work a flirty floral skirt with a solid cotton top , cotton will keep you cool and has a real @ the Hampton's feel. For my jeans queens have no fear the Capri will never go out of style. Wear it with fun bold coloured sandals in the day and work it girl with some strappy heels for a fun night on the town.

Accessories are a must, so feel free to mix it up. All you have to do is match one colour in the outfit and you're good to go. Play with a few of these...[1] colour glass bangles [2] big stone rings and [3] beady necklaces will work with anything and the costume ones wont hurt your pocket or your heart as much :)

As I close I hope you have a wonderful summer and the fashion tips help you out but most of all remember the following:

[1] Do not go over board wid the floral and bright colours cause if bees sting you. I and I ain't liable.

[2] But most importantly, it could be the newest and hippest thing in fashion but if you put it on and you feel like a drag queen at Rebel Salute i.e. out a freaking place then by all means take it off and go with a tried and true cause in the end you'll never be comfortable unless you do you.

Over and Out,

Mamachel

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