Blondes, Poop and Mascara blog

Funktion GIVEAWAY! Ditch your Diaper Bag!

2011-12-12T19:11:00.018-05:00

I am so excited to share this NEW and AMAZING company with you. FUNKTION!

Stay tuned for a $199.99 Mommassentials set giveaway too!

As you know, I am all about practical products, ethical companies and giving back anyway you can to make a difference. Funktion says to, "Ditch your diaper bag!" I know at some point in your life you will know someone who is pregnant, you might get pregnant, or have kids and need some style and organization of your current hand bag!

Funktion realized the need for the essentials that MOST all diaper bags do not have. If they do have have nice features, it seems they're country bumpkin flower print or have Disney characters. And, well, that's not my thing. Being a Mom of 4 I need the essentials and that is it. I have seriously had 5 diaper bags in as many years. The bag I have now is perfect because of Funktion.

Let me break this down for you before you click purchase for yourself or that next shower gift.

Changing pad- This is amazing. It is a one-hand folding system and wipes up great! And it has a great a slot for the most fabulous wipe case.

Wipe case - This is my favorite. I have tried so many wipe containers and finally just resorted to a ziploc bag. Until Funktion. It keep the wipes MOIST and it does not open in my diaper bag! LOVE IT!

Bottle holder - Cutest bottle holder ever and it really works. I could fit 2 bottles in it. Great size.

Clutch- This is brilliant. I use it in my diaper bag, but you will also see me with when I am out with my girlfriends.

Grab bag - This in the beginning was such a much more stylish bag than a plastic bag for my blow out poop clothes. It is now used as my snack bag...I cleaned out the poop. Speaking of, remember this story?

Cosmetic case - Used for baby lotion, hand sanitizer, tampons, kid's lip balm and two of my lip glosses. This will always stay in my purse. Being a makeup artist I think I have had some super cute makeup cases. But, a coordinating cosmetic bag for my diaper bag. LOVE! It also keeps all of these essentials in ONE place vs. all the pockets you think you will use when purchasing a diaper bag and then you can never find ANYTHING!!

Paci purse- Because I have two babies right now, it's important to me that this little fella holds two paci's. Until the time comes to unplug them that is. :)

If you have your favorite handbag and/or a diaper bag that makes you still feel stylish and pretty. Keep it. Carry it. But, throw these beauties from Funktion in your bag. They are so essential to my EVERYDAY use. Not to mention the happy vibrant colors! And, let's not forget quality!

Be sure to check out their Giving Back page too!

COUPON CODE: 25% off with code: blondespoopandmascara

WIN IT: The Chick in Charge at Funktion is giving 1 Blondes, Poop and Mascara reader an entire Mommassentials Set. That's a $199 value!!

To enter, just leave me a comment about your biggest diaper bag problem. It could be a story about having forgotten a diaper in it, how it wouldn't fit in the overhead compartment on your flight, etc. A random winner will be selected on Friday, December 23rd.

Extra ENTRIES:
1) Like Funktion on Facebook
2) Follow Funktion on Twitter @funktionmoms
3) Tweet about this giveaway something like this "Diaper bag need a facelift? @Blonde1s is giving away an entire $200 set of designer baby bits by @funktionmoms here: http://t.co/20cOJWpA"
4) Sign up on Funktion's homepage for their newsletter to hear about specials and new products.
5) Pin a designer baby bit on Pinterest

Be sure to leave a comment for each entry. The more you enter the better chance you have to win!

Handmade Jewelry review and GIVEAWAY!

2011-11-28T20:55:00.012-05:00

If you know me, then you know I LOVE supporting, and buying from companies that are HANDMADE and make their products right here in the USA. I am excited to share with you my MOST complimented piece of jewelery....

I am blessed enough to have reviewed for Lauren Nicole Gifts not once, but 2 other times. I LOVE her work. It is simple...creative...and just perfect. All my pieces have had my children's name and I just keep adding names. I am 99% sure there will be no more name adding!! I can't tell you how much I love my new necklace and how much I love wearing it with all of my boys names on it!

When I think about gifts I can't think of more personal gifts than what Lauren Nicole Gifts has to offer. Everyone loves monogrammed items. Such a nice touch. And every item comes already wrapped and in a very cute bag.

Buy it: You can buy my awesome necklace here along with other bracelets and earrings. If you order by December 15th you will receive your orders by Christmas!

Win it: Lauren Nicole Gifts is giving one Blondes, Poop & Mascara reader the same necklace I have. A personalized Mother's hand-stamped Layered Dome Necklace with a Bead Charm.

You must tell me your favorite Christmas tradition you do with your children to enter! Or, if you don't yet have children and you're hoping to win this for your Momma, what is your favorite tradition she's done with you?

Extra Enrtries:
1) Like Lauren Nicole Gifts on Facebook.
2) Follow Lauren Nicole Gifts on Twitter @LaurenNicoleLLC
3) Tweet about this giveaway something like this "Hey! @Blonde1s is giving away a personalized hand-stamped fine silver necklace by @LaurenNicoleLLC! Enter here: http://cot.ag/slTHVC"
4) Sign up on Lauren Nicole Gifts homepage for their newsletter to hear about specials and new products.

Remember to leave a comment for each entry.

I will be randomly selecting an entry this Saturday, December 3rd. Good luck!

New and Improved Pampers review and GIVEAWAY!

2011-11-05T18:33:00.022-04:00

It's been SO long since I have blogged. I am still trying to figure out the wife - mommy - buisness owner balance. Though I might always face that challenge ... I feel so blessed.

It has been a big year...I turned 30, LA turned 5, Boatboy turned 3 and started preschool, Trey and Quatro turned 1, I nursed the babies until they were 1, my business has close to doubled. I am loving being a Momma of 4 boys. It is CRAZY, but so fun. The boys love me so well.

The last month I have received some amazing products to review. I can't wait to share them with you and offer some really amazing giveaways!!

First things first - the new and improved Pampers Cruisers that hit shelves a couple months ago. I was sent what was supposed to be a week supply, but let me remind you I have twins. So they lasted a few days! After watching the boys crawl around in them I realized a few unique things about the diapers...

1. They are SO similar in feel to the Pampers Swaddlers (which I have been a huge fan of for all 4 boys when they were infants)...I loved the the very soft cloth feel. Well, the new Cruisers design is the same. I love it!

2. A more absorbent core (much longer) and very fun Sesame Street designs!

3. They are SO thin. It was very nice to throw them in my NEW Funktion changing pad (you will hear about very soon)! This is SO important. I don't want a bulky diaper or a thin one that leaks.

I am very impressed with the comfort it provided my very sensitive/exezma skinned child, Trey. Not one leak, blowout or rash.

Win
I am excited to give away one Blondes, Poop and Mascara reader a Jumbo Pack (size 3-7) of newly improved Pampers Cruisers with 3-Way Fit diapers, a 64-Count Tub of Pampers Wipes and Hasbro’s new Let’s Rock! Elmo. Elmo comes with his very own microphone, tambourine and a drum set and sings sings six rockin’ songs.

To enter you must tell me your very favorite thing about being a Mom (or Dad)!

Extra Enrtries:
1) Like Pampers Facebook fan page
2) Follow Pamper on Twitter @Pampers
3) Tweet about this giveaway something like this "Yeah! @blonde1s of #BlondesPoopandMascara is giving away a jumbo @Pampers prize package http://cot.ag/tMDbUO"

The winner will be chosen on Monday, November 14th.

I will be reviewing a new and amazing company called Funktion, my favorite shoe company, Pedipeds and my most complemented new piece of jewelry in the coming days!

Product and information was provided free of charge in exchange for this post and giveaway from Pampers and doesn’t affect my views or feedback of the product or service. This post is based solely on my personal opinion.

a four boy photo shoot

2011-04-28T09:23:00.007-04:00

We had the pleasure of working with Brian and Jen Stump of Twice Shy Design again last week to get some up to date photography of all four boys. Some favs from the recent shoot are below and plenty more are at this link. Enjoy!

Twice Shy Design also shot Uncle O & Aunt Elisha's wedding back in 2007 and has done some work with Beauty by Crystal.

put a label on it

2011-02-03T08:05:00.017-05:00

In September I began looking for labels for LA (4.5-yr-old) as he was about to start school. I needed to find labels for his coat, backpack, lunch bag, etc. It was incredibly hard to find labels that were...

1. Dishwasher safe for his lunchbox/drink containers
2. Washer/dryer safe for his coat and backpack

That's when I stumbled across LabelDaddy.com. When I found a "school pack" package option I truly thought this is way too good to be true. They carried everything I was looking for and more for an amazing price!

When we received the set LA was so excited. I was overwhelmed by the quality of printing and thickness of the labels. So we spent an hour labeling. We labeled EVERYTHING!! His coat, hat, lunch box, crayon boxes, reusable lunch containers and his sweat shirts.

WOW, it is 4 months later and the labels have been washed MANY times and they look just as good as the day we received them. Outstanding! I have found many more ways to use them. No need to pull out the marker, I just grab a label. These things are the best!!!

I can't wait to order for labels for Boatboy (2.5-yr-old) and the twins next. If you need labels look no further. Label Daddy is awesome. You will be so pleased!

Check out all the ways you can make labels with many different package options!

Thank you Label Daddy for sending me these amazing labels in exchange for sharing an honest review on Blondes, Poop & Mascara.

alive and well

2011-01-11T08:11:00.020-05:00

Where have I been? It's like I had twins or something! I have not been on this blog for quite some time. I usually only have enough energy while nursing to scroll through Facebook updates.

I have been trying to figure out life with four boys...4 and under. So much has changed for me. SO much good!

I have had to become much more diligent about asking God for strength and patience each day...

nursing twins 6 times a day and giving LA and Boatboy the love they need from me each day...

learn how to love my husband and keep him a priority as I deeply want too...

learning how to get 4 boys dressed and in the car for LA's preschool is always challenging...

how to find time to get back in shape before I turn the big 3-0 this July!!!

So as you can tell, I am still trying to figure life out. It is a fun journey and I am blessed!

That being said I have been delayed on sharing some great products with you. You are very familiar with the oh, so great Eleven shoes if you have been following me.

I chose the Miles for sweet LA. Definitely my favorite 2010 shoe. They are a part of the 2010 Fall/Winter collection line. I love them!!! While LA wears them to school and he looks super studdly and can even wear them to gym class because of the great rubber sole. LA puts them on and zips them on his own. The insole of the shoe is extremely cushioned. I could go on and on. The great thing is... after 5 months of wear and tear he is about to grow out of them....and they still look perfect to pass on to Boatboy. These shoes are true quality.

Believe me when I say quality is very important to me, because LA only has a pair of black and brown casual shoes and gym shoes. So I need a pair of shoes to last an entire season. If you have boys you know kids are so tough on shoes. LA jumps in puddles and in mud in these oh, so great shoes as I tell him you do not have your snow boots on....and they still look so great. There is no secret I love dressing my boys in Eleven shoes!!

I am so excited to be able to give away yet another pair of Eleven Collection shoes from their Fall/Winter line to one lucky Blondes, Poop and Mascara reader.

Win: Let me know what pair of shoes you would pick if you are randomly selected and why.

Extra Enrtries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Follow @mrsblonde1 on Twitter.
4. Tweet about this giveaway like so "Yeah! @mrsblonde1 of #BlondesPoopandMascara is giving away a pair of @ElevenShoes http://cot.ag/e3NIjX"
5. Blog about this contest and leave the post link in your comment.
6. Tell 4 friends about this giveaway via email, provide a direct link and cc me (crystal@beautybycrystal.net).
7. Sign up for Eleven's newsletter on their website and let me know!

Thanks so much for entering! I will select a winner on February 2. And thanks Eleven Shoes for allowing to review these amazing shoes in exchange of this review.

First family of six photos!

2010-11-08T08:47:00.005-05:00

Our dear friend Katelin Carter of Full Pockets Photography has been taking photos of our family for years now. Our first session ever with her is so fun to look back at now.

Last night we had her take our first photos as a family of six up at Mrs. Blonde's Aunt & Uncle's new gorgeous home in the burbs. Below are just a couple from her original sneak peek blog post.

All smiles! From left to right - LA, Mr. Blonde, Quatro, Mrs. Blonde, Trey and Boatboy

Can't believe how tall LA and Boatboy are getting.

To the smilers go the spoils. GIANT marshmallows!

Thanks, Katelin. We love you!

H2 Oh No!

2010-10-15T10:20:00.013-04:00

This post is inspired by 2010 Blog Action Day. This year's topic is water.

Right now, almost a billion people on the planet don’t have access to clean, safe drinking water. That’s one in eight of us.

If you're a veteran visitor to the Blondes, Poop & Mascara blog, you know how big of a deal this has been to us in the past. In particular the Well Water Project comes to mind. A campaign our local church body ran from Easter to Christmas to raise enough monies to give to Horizon International to build two clean water wells in Zimbabwe, Africa. We succeeded too! It was actually this fund raising project that inspired the beginnings of what has become Fashionthropic. A non-profit T-shirt company that gives away 100% of it's proceeds. Zero capital means you can give it all away! The Quench Thirst. Give Life. shirt continues to be one of the best sellers in the store.

In the last decade, there have come to be SO many wonderful organizations dedicated to helping provide the world's lesser of these clean safe drinking water. There are several larger wonderful organizations like World Vision, Oxfam and we've already mentioned Horizon International that help, but here is our short round up of orgs that specifically exist to combat this issue...

Blood: Water Mission

Wine to Water

Charity Water

Water.org

If you didn't know, now you do. Use your voice. Post. Blog. Tweet. Raise awareness. Support one of the organizations listed above. Don't take for granted the clean water you have. Educate your children. Don't do nothing. We leave you with this short video from Blog Action Day...

Blog Action Day 2010: Water from Blog Action Day on Vimeo.

school is now in session

2010-10-11T22:32:00.001-04:00

As if we don't have enough milestones & transitions in these Blondes, Poop & Mascara parts these days, we hit another joyous one 3 weeks ago. LA's first day of pre-school. Ask him and he'll tell you it's "school not pre-school!"

We've all been excited about this for such a long time. He'd been wearing his backpack every day for the better part of two weeks in preparation.

Though our little 4-year-old has spent some of his life with other people and in other groups (Sunday Church gatherings, house church, sports teams, etc) he'd never spent hours on end under the care of someone we weren't related to or know really well. So, there lies the struggle for me the Momma. He will be under the influence of two wonderful teachers from 9am-2pm, two days a week. This is a lot for this hormonal Momma. I know it is SO good for LA and he already LOVES it. There is still a little piece of me that just wants to keep him a bubble at home. I know with the arrival of the twins it is a much needed break for me and him twice a week!

What would back to school time be without some new kicks?! We received another pair of adorable and very practical shoes from Pediped in trade for an honest review of their product. LA loves his new Jake shoes from the flex line! What could be better than a pair of super cool casual brown shoes that function as a gym shoe. The soles are so comfy for gym class and sturdy enough for the playground. And, they wash up quite well! Trust me, we know. His favorite part of his playground at school is the sand area. Well, there or anywhere his little girlfriend Clair goes. Though according to him, "She follows me anywhere I go."

This is our second pair of shoes from the Flex line. We love them just as much as the first pair. The Flex line comes with insoles that can be removed as your child's feet grow. So, you get a long wear from these shoes.

As I have mentioned in all my other Pediped reviews, I love that Pediped says their shoes are "the next best thing to bare feet."

Check out Pediped collections and especially their new Grip n Go collection. I am excited to try a pair in the future!

If you are a fan of Pediped like me be sure to check out Kinderbliss. A new catalog and online shopping destination with beautiful and unique items for children from the founder of Pediped, www.kinderbliss.com.

fragility and magnificence

2010-10-11T11:01:00.026-04:00

It's been so impactful. So tiring. So wonderful. So exhausting we're just getting around to talking about it in this cyber place.

September 2010 marks the most dramatic month in existence for us. We already knew it was going to be incredibly awesome and life-changing anticipating the birth of the twins. Little did we know, the birth of Trey and Quatro were but the tip of a glorious and painful iceberg that plummeted well below the surface of the status quo.

Somewhere around a week and a half prior to doubling the amount of sons in our family, something quite unexpected happened to me (Mr. Blonde) in my company. After a turbulent last year and a half where leaning out and cuts were taken to mortally anorexic extremes, I found myself honored as the recipient of a promotion. I often see things coming my way. Surprises aren't incredibly common in my life. This surprised me. Bigtime. I enjoy what I do, how I do it and who I do it with. I'm incredibly blessed in that way. And, if you're not an IZOD IndyCar Series fan, you should be. Check out a 2010 highlights reel I recently put together. How can that not be entertaining to you? Even Cubs fans could like it (Go White Sox!).

THEN, came our welcoming Trey & Quatro into the family. If you're just catching up. Their birth announcement is here. Their birth story is here. We continue to be amazed by them. I'm certain they feel the same way about their big brothers and their parents as well.

Less than one week after they were born, we got a call from Nana (Mrs. Blonde's Mom) at 6 in the morning. Anytime a phone is ringing that early in our house, it's typically going to be followed by bad news. This was no exception. Hearts raced with panic as we learned while working on an extension ladder at his job in downtown Indy, Papa (Mrs. Blonde's Dad) had fallen 10 feet to the ground. He lay there in a pool of blood caused by the gash on his face. Unable to move in almost any direction due to a busted hip and shoulder, he laid there fully conscious wondering how bad it really was. We're SO thankful for the lady prepping for a women's prayer meeting that saw the accident, for quickly responding medics and the staff at St Vincent Hospital for their immediate response to his situation. Two surgeries, a long stay in the hospital and extended stay in rehab later, he's progressing extremely well. In fact, he just got permission to leave his wheelchair last Friday. Keep at it, Papa! You'll be tossing around grandsons again before you know it!

A couple years removed from a toxic marriage, Mrs. Blonde's best friend Nicole and her new-ish boyfriend Steve stopped by unannounced one afternoon while Mr. Blonde was still on his paternal vacation. It was abundantly clear through their gitty squeals what was affirmed when she showed us the gorgeous gem on her left ring finger. Her: a divorcee with two toddlers. Him: a widow with four children of his own. Their story is 100% unconventional and even more beautiful. They wed on New Year's Day with Mrs. Blonde as the maid of honor. We are oh so excited for them and their families to be unified!

The month ended on the lowest note of all. Another early morning phone call. This time it was a call from Grandma (Mr. Blonde's Mom). Again, heart racing, it was so hard to understand her through the desperate sobbing. Uncle Greg had died suddenly at the age of 50. He and Aunt Donna (Grandma's sister) were less than a month into being empty nesters as they'd just seen their youngest daughter off to college. He'd just taken a fantastic job after struggling through the economic decline as an I.T. guy. And, while in Scotland on business, having been Skyping with his family (even his Mom) the night before, died in his sleep as a result of his Type I diabetes.

A few truly magnificent things to take away from Greg's life here:

* He lived his life 100% in the ways of Jesus. Not just because he looked forward to Heaven, but because it's a better way to live here and now.

* The man had influence. Consistent, powerful influence. Never arrogant, often comedic, but always sure of who he was, who his family was, who his friends were and who his God was.

* Despite his health problems the man did not complain. Seemingly ever. This was a familiar theme throughout all of his services and celebrations.

* His wife adored him! His children wouldn't hesitate to claim him as their hero. In short, he's everything I (Mr. Blonde) could dream to be.

At his funeral Greg's youngest brother Keith shared the best short story about his oldest brother. Keith had run into Greg and a friend over their lunch hour. Keith walked up and said hello to his brother. Greg said hello in return, introduced the gentlemen sitting with him to his younger brother, then turned back to the man he was dining with and asked, "And, your name is?"

In addition to all of that, as you already know, LA recently started pre-school and Mrs. Blonde's business, Beauty by Crystal, won on the A-list again.

See. It's. A. Lot!

It's cliche. And, it's true. This life isn't predictable. Live it now. Things happen in a flash and you canNOT control most of them. Couples find out they're having twins and have no idea how that's going to work. Men fall off ladders and survive when statistics indicate otherwise. Teenage daughters play moving 10-minute piano medleys at their Dad's funerals. Marriages go bad when husbands break promises leaving ex-wives and children in the painful wake of their selfishness...only to find the perfect man with his own story of loss.

Dwell on yesterday...fixate on tomorrow...and you'll miss out on living today.

To SO many amazing friends and family...Thank you! Thank you for meals. Thank you for doing dishes. Thank you for phone calls and texts and emails and stopping by. And, babysitting. Going to see Mrs. Blonde's Dad while he was in the hospital. For understanding why we couldn't make the gatherings we typically do. Without all of your support, we wouldn't be experiencing God like we are in lives. We're richer because of you!

Beauty by Crystal: 2010 A-list Winner

2010-09-25T12:19:00.011-04:00

For the second year in a row my company, Beauty by Crystal, was nominated for the category of Best Wedding Make-Up Artist in Indianapolis on WRTV's A-List. And, for the second year in a row, I won 3rd place! Placing this well against some very talented fellow artists in the area is such an honor. And, a big congratulations to my friend Kathy Moberly of Faces by KLM who finished in 1st place this year!

Thank you so much to my clients and any of you Blondes, Poop & Mascara readers that may have voted for me. I adore what I do! And, I love hearing how much you like what I do too!! :)

Keep up with my work as a make-up artist on my website beautybycrystal.net and via my twitter account @BeautybyCrystal.

Twins: the birth story

2010-09-23T20:31:00.036-04:00

Wow! Two weeks ago today, I doubled the amount of sons I have!

Thursday, September 9th I began having contractions every 15 minutes starting around 9am. They were quite sporadic. I thought it was strange. "Could today be the day?" I went in for my normal weekly check-up at 2p that day. I was dilated to 2cm. My doc said things looked good. He even said maybe we will have babies tonight. We were pretty excited!

Let me remind you (& myself) this was the hardest pregnancy I've ever had. I was in severe pain all day. Everyday. I hit 37 weeks and wanted these babies OUT! So when I started contracting I was so ready.

Jump ahead to Friday, September 1oth at 1am I was woken up by contractions. Amos was up, dressed, finished packing the bags. I took a long shower. Then, I got tired and went back to bed. After Amos realized I was asleep he laid back down (fully dressed and ready to go!). We snoozed until a little after 6am when the big boys woke up.

So I called my doc in the morning as I was having contractions again. He wanted to see me...soon. We got in at 10am. I was so determined that today was the day. My Mom and Dad had the big kids already so we were ready to pop these babies out. Once to the doc's office they hooked me up and saw that I was having contractions but they were very spread out. So they checked my cervix to see that I was now at a 3cm. But, again, progression was slow. I was so tired and discouraged that I was only at a 3. The doc told me that he thinks "your uterus is so stretched from carrying twins and already having had two babies that sometimes it does not work as effectively as a normal uterus." My thoughts: "Oh, great!"

Then he said, "I am going to call the hospital and you should head over there to be monitored. So Amos and I grabbed some lunch, a pumpkin latte, parked in a nice sunny location, chilled for a bit and talked, then headed to the hospital. Before we went in we walked around the parking lot five times and I did squats. No joke! Once we got to triage and got hooked up she said the same thing. "You are having them just not close together. If we don't see your body progressing we will have to send you home." I felt like crying. While waiting for the doc on call to come in and check on me, Amos and I went for a walk. I did squats again in the bathroom. :) I wanted these babies out!

Doc showed up and checked me. 4cm! Progress! We got admitted to a laboring room and hooked me up to a slow pitocin drip. You know what this meant! BABIES! Soon! I was so thrilled and so SCARED!

Would I have a c-section?

Would the boys be ok?

We prayed. A lot! This was going to happen through God's strength in accordance with His plans. Not ours. We also got so many amazing messages via text, Facebook and Twitter! Thank you, all!

From 3pm to 11pm I slowly progressed and then it was go time. I started the pushing in my room. Six seconds into the 1st push, it was apparent Trey was ready to move and move quickly. The nurse said, "Woah! Alright...we're good. Let's get over to the O.R." Yep! Definitely go time!

Off to the OH SO COLD and frightening O.R. There were about 16 people in there including Amos and me. A NICU team for each child. A few nurses. A med student in rotations (which I personally approved - SO glad the doc asked me prior to) PUSH! PUSH again! Out came Trey. He looked great! Amazing!! Then seven minutes later our sweet little Elliot came out with just three pushes! I was so excited to hear them both scream and cry. It was the best sound ever. Healthy baby lungs!

And then there was two. We were taking care of two babies. I was/am nursing two little babies. (Mr. Blonde note: After Quatro was born, I actually said out loud to the entire troop in the room, "Wow! There really are TWO of them!" /laughter/) We were holding two little miracles.

Beyond their delivery, things have been perfect. We stayed two more days at the hospital with our new little men. The staff were all so amazing as they have been for the birth of all our boys. It's only been two weeks, but they've continued to hit all their benchmarks. They cry like they're supposed to. Toot like they're supposed to. Pee like they're supposed to (Trey shot Mr. Blonde once already - won't be the last time I'm sure). It's all so crazy, so tiring and so wonderful! I still am in complete awe that these two beautiful boys were formed in me by the One who formed me! I love getting to know each of them!

We have so much more to share. These last two weeks have included brought about much more than just our two new guys. Like my Dad sustaining major injuries. LA's first full day of pre-school. My best friend's engagement. I also have some great reviews coming up on Pediped shoes, Eleven shoes and Label Daddy!

-Mrs. Blonde

Oh Brothers Where Art Thou?

2010-09-16T19:07:00.026-04:00

<-- Trey & Quatro being monitored while hanging out in utero together.

Prior to the birth of the twins, Trey & Quatro, brother was a term already used quite often between LA and Boatboy.

"Hey brother, come here!"

"You're handsome brother!"

"Brother hit me!"

"I love my brother all the way up to the stars and moon."

With the entry of the twins, the term is being used in, it seems, every other breath. I suppose growing up a member of the Four Brothers Blonde it will continue...forever.

Our last family photo of four, LA and Boatboy came to visit short after admission to the labor room.

...and provided some pre-birth dance entertainment for all those in the room.

Trey (in foreground) & Quatro under the "incubator" (as Papa called it) less than an hour after coming into our lives.

L-O-V-E this photo. Some of you likely already saw it via our Twitter account. One of my (Mr.) favorite ever, actually. A proud (& GORGEOUS) Mrs. Blonde with her two new guys.

Oldest brother LA came to the hospital to meet his two new little brothers. Including learning their names which he insisted for 9 months were Baga & Momen. 'Cause he's funny like that. He even convinced Boatboy that's what they were to be called. We thought he would take to them, but he was so much sweeter and into them than we had originally imagined. Some very very cool moments. -- So sad, but Boatboy didn't get to meet his new little brothers until they came home as he'd had a cold.

Sleep deprived and proud Mr. Blonde showing off half of his fleet of sons.

The twins in their take-home outfits.

LA & Boatboy playing with animals together while their new brothers were getting aclimated into their new home. This photo was taken right when Boatboy grabbed LA's nose and said "HONK!"

Boatboy making sure Papa is giving him as much attention as is being given to Trey.

LA stealing some cuddle time with Quatro while Nana is holding the wee one.

Boatboy says "I wanna see!" "I want to help!"

It's the coolest thing to grow up with a brother. Mrs. Blonde did it. So did Mr. Blonde. But, neither of us had more than one. All our boys get to each have three brothers! That's so cool! Stay tuned for a photo of them all together...at some point.

introducing our new sonS

2010-09-11T22:57:00.009-04:00

click on the below image to see a magnified view -- caution: the boys are much cuter than they may appear

Less than 24 hours ago, we doubled the amount of sons we have by welcoming Trey and Quatro into the Blondes, Poop & Mascara family. We have SO much to say about the labor journey. But, for now, we'll just thank ALL of the wonderful love and prayer support we've had to culminate in this celebration of life! Friends. Tweeters. Family. Facebookees. Texters. Church. You've overwhelmed us and these little guys. Now, if you'll excuse us, it's time for a quick nap while they're in the nursery before the next feeding.

These two songs have been anthems throughout the last 48 hours for us. We encourage you to play them as you read through the post and enjoy the announcement design above.

Am I ready?

2010-08-30T21:00:00.025-04:00

I am in waiting mode. They're coming. Any day now we're going to double the amount of sons we have.

I finished up a few make-up artistry jobs last week that I really wanted to do. One being them Dream Makeover reveal party.

I have been pretty much on my own "couch rest." I can't really do a whole lot. The only time I am comfortable is when I am lying down. The boys (LA: 4 / Boatboy: 2) have been great most days. And a struggle other times.

I have struggled with feeling like a real sucky Mom lately. I don't chase
them around the yard, kick a soccer ball, take them to the park, play tag, push them on swings, carry them like babies or turn the music up so loud we can't even hear ourselves singing and dance our little hearts out. Those are the things I so miss right now. We read. A lot! Thank goodness they like me reading to them!

I had a break down 4 nights ago...

When LA was born I nursed him day and night and just stare at him. I never ever put him down. I was so madly in love with this child and loved every minute of it.

When Boatboy was born I nursed him day and night and was in awe of him every moment. I often wondered before he was born if I would have enough time to get to know him as well because LA was taking up all my time. But it worked! So perfectly! God gave me plenty of time, energy and love for both boys!

So, I am now questioning the same thing. How will I really be able to know each twin fully while two toddlers are running around? I know the answer to my own question and my amazing loving husband reminds me that I am not doing this alone. (I truly have the most precious husband.)

I often wonder about the twins....who will i look at when I am nursing? who will I pick up first? What if one is more fussy than the other? Will I favor one over the other? I had 2 very easy boys...will the twins be that easy?

I know God has prepared me to a Mom of multiples as my 3rd and 4th child(ren) And, all of these questions will work themselves out. But I still ask myself them all the time.

I started having uncomfortable contractions last week. I am SO tired. I am HUGE (35 1/2 weeks). But those sweet boys are still growing in me and I praise God everyday for that.

God has blessed us with so much!

FAMILY who selflessly love us and help with anything we need. For example - my mom and dad take the kids ALL the time to provide much needed breaks and the boys come home so happy!

My sweet Momma does laundry like a super woman and even took home an entire basket of unmatched socks to match for us.

My Aunt and Uncle take the boys once a week for an entire day to give me rest. AMAZING!!

My Mother-in-Law came over and hand washed an entire sink of dishes, brought us dinner and fresh fruit...my favorite.

FRIENDS who have us over for dinner and bring us meals. Wow! Food that I don't have to prepare and know my family is eating well is such a blessing. People offering to watch the boys for a couple hours. And all the people who continue to encourage me, send me texts, diapers, gifts and pray for me daily. I am so BLESSED!

As I write all of this, I know I am being prepared for the arrival of the twins. My body feels very different as of last week. My heart feels more ready. And I am getting silly, excited and nervous. The delivery of two just scares me a bit. However, I am ready when they are.

I am two days from being 36 weeks pregnant. So bring on the babies and your prayers! If the timing is right for the babies to come this weekend I would be thrilled. My doctor is on call!!!!

A big thanks to Emily, the designHer Momma, for lending me her cute black preggers dress effectively hiding 51 extra pounds! No shame here - I have TWO in there!

Indianapolis Woman Dream Makeover 2010

2010-08-23T12:45:00.019-04:00

As you likely know, I started my own make-up artistry business 4 years ago. Through Beauty by Crystal I have had some of the most wonderful experiences. My favorite work is bridal. I know how much of a princess I felt like when Mr. Blonde and I got married and I SO enjoy playing a role in helping other brides feel the same.

In addition to the bridal work I do, I've had the opportunity to work with some outstanding companies and projects. Like the NCAA, NCAA Wives' Club, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indy Racing League (where I've had the chance to work with my favorite IndyCar driver ever, Helio Castroneves, several times), IZOD, FFA, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Splash Salon, several wonderfully talented local photographers, a fair share of inspirational other mua's and dozens of beautiful make-up lines.

Via a relationship I have with the regional representative of Jane Iredale and Meridian Plastic Surgeons, I was honored by being asked to be Lesly Davis's make-up artist at her final Indianapolis Woman Magazine photography session for their annual Dream Makeover.

Lesly will be the cover story in Indy Woman's September issue. Mr. Blonde and I will be attending the Dream Makeover reveal party this Thursday night where I'll be doing Lesly's make-up again and we'll be enjoying our last formal evening together before we have two more beautiful boys.

Stayed tuned to this blog, our Twitter account and my Beauty by Crystal Twitter account for more updates and pictures!

-Mrs. Blonde

What people say when they see 10+ lbs of baby in a belly

2010-08-21T21:21:00.004-04:00

I'm 34 weeks pregnant with twin boys. I happen to be measuring 35 weeks. The last couple weeks, I've hit the point where passersby are just saying whatever they want. Mostly, I think it's comical. Here are a few in blue. My responses are included in green.

"I like your shirt. I am sure you'll be glad to hang that one up anyday." - fellow shopper

"Thanks. It's not a maternity shirt. And, I have 5 weeks to go."

"Woah! You're about to explode!" - gas station attendant

"$20 on Pump 1. Thanks."

"Oh, let me back up. You aren't going to be able to make that corner." - fellow shopper

"Yeah, there is no sucking in these days."

"Oh my gosh! You're huge!" - my business client TONIGHT

I just smiled. I love her. Doesn't matter.

TGIF

2010-08-20T14:13:00.004-04:00

It's the end of the week!

Bring it on, weekend!

Dog-gone-her: Part III - It is finished

2010-08-19T11:19:00.010-04:00

This is easily the most we've ever talked about our dog on this blog. First post here. Second post here. Especially in one week's time. And, this is likely the last post about her. Ever. We're so happy to report Chloe has officially found her new home! Here is the email we got this morning from her new owner...

Hi Crystal,

...The girls are getting along fantastic now. It’s funny how quickly Andi has adapted to another dog in her home. They’re really cute together now. They were even napping side by side last night. We’ve had no problems at all with Chloe. She’s been an absolute joy. We love her...

Quite surprisingly (and very thankfully) the boys have only asked about her twice since the weekend when we dropped her off. We've told them that she's gone to stay with her new dog friend. And, shockingly, LA hasn't grilled us and asked 37 more questions. He did say yesterday, "Where is Chloe?" But, quickly moved on to something else. We originally planned to take them over to see her new home, but as of today, we decided not to do that. It might just complicate things. We don't need that.

So, after we drop off her documentation this weekend, the transition is complete. It's right.

To honor our fantastic pup, here's a super cute video of her with Boatboy when he was a wee one...

Dog-gone-her: Part II - Chloe update

2010-08-16T12:04:00.008-04:00

As you know, we're seeking a new home for our westie Chloe. Below is a lovely note we got this morning from Chloe's likely new owner. She's staying with him, his partner and their Jack Russell, Andi, (who's Chloe's same age) for a few nights as a trial. If all things progress well, we'll move her in later this week.

Hi Crystal,

Wanted to drop you a short note to let you know that Chloe’s first night went really well. She’s such a good girl. She went right to her crate at bedtime. Andi and I spent the night in the basement (where her crate is) with her so she wouldn’t be lonely on her first night. The girls are getting along pretty well now that the dust is settling. Chloe and Andi were very good to each other when I let Chloe out of her crate this morning...all wags and sniffs. Breakfast time went well and morning potty went well. It’s all good. She’s a really sweet girl and we’re really enjoying her. I see the potential for some serious spoiling on our part.

Just wanted to give you an update.

So excited our little girl has likely found her new loving home!!!

Dog-gone-her

2010-08-14T22:13:00.076-04:00

While this is a dog post I assure you it's not all puppies and rainbows. Turn back now if you can't handle life and death discussions regarding pets. It's also signficantly longer than the average post here at Blondes, Poop & Mascara. I'm feeling inspired. You'll see why.

Just before our 1st wedding anniversary, she showed up as a gift to Mrs. Blonde in the spring of 2005. A perfect white little cotton ball ready to love and be loved. And, she did. And, she is. Tremendously so really! Six years ago our little white westie, Chloe, was born into our family. Our first baby if you will.

I'm a dog person. (Which isn't to say I'm not a cat person. I don't dislike cats. But, I don't like them either. Where was I...yes. Dogs.) I've had a dog in my dwelling place my entire life except a few years in college. I've always loved it that way. They are after all man's best friend. But, their stories don't always end well.

Frosty (Westie): My first. Great little dog! I must have been 6 years old when I came home from the 1st grade to be told that he had to "be put to sleep" due to horrific skin conditions. Truth is, the dude was absolutely miserable most of the time. Scraping open sores to ease his pain. Sad scenario. Dead.

Cookie (Jack Russell Terrier): She had this crazy mixture of hair types. Long straight around her neck and slick throughout. Equals = a lion mane. Good stuff. She was high energy. A jack russel; high energy? I know. She'd had a litter of puppies; was let outside for a potty break and never came back. Dogs don't leave their young. Stolen. Gone.

Dundee (Jack Russel Terrier): One of Cookie's pups. Of course I named him after the hottest cinematic sensation of the day. Three weeks after moving him (and our entire family) from the city where I spent the first seven years of my life to the countryside where I spent the next 13, he got hit by a car. On Friday, the 13th. SOB never even slowed down before Dundee was plowed down. Not even a brake mark in the road. My Dad buried him in our pasture. Dead.

Yeller (Mountain Feist): Naming a dog after Old Yeller takes two things. Integrity (because that movie is full of it). And, ignorance...because the dog gets rabies and then a bullet to the head. Yeller had a calm temperment. He was incredibly strong for his size. We used to pick him up by whatever toy he was clinging to and dangle him in mid-air while he tugged and flipped about. He was a sturdy sidekick. He stayed inside most of the time. But, when he was in the back yard, he played with his big friend...

Bear (1/4 Huskey, 3/4 Timber Wolf, yeah you read that right): Bad ass dog! Huge! He never came inside. Well, when my brother and I were home alone he did. But, a 120lb wolf dog isn't the most elegant creature traipsing through the house. We could practically ride this beast like a horse. In the snow, he pulled us around on our sleds. People feared him. We adored him. One spring, it's theorized that he and Yeller got into a yard treatment chemical that was to have been killer on weeds yet safe for animals. Turns out, it wasn't safe. Seizures started up. Then, more regularly. Bear's seizures soon became accompanied by anger. Before long, he wasn't safe. My Dad couldn't trust him around us boys. He was euthanized farm-style (.22). Dead. Yeller - the same fate. The brain damage was too much. Dead.

Muffin (Jack Russel Terrier): She's the mainstay. Sweet. Kind. Not spastic-Jack-Russel in the slightest. When we would sing, she would howl with us. She ate food from my Dad's mouth. That's too much. I know. But, it was always funny. She had several litters of puppies. We loved it! Even watching her birth them was awesome. By the time the tumors became too much for her body to handle, she'd lost an eye in the battle, had her sinuses rearranged and been with us for over a decade. Not that there wasn't with the others, but a special deep set of tears came to pass when she did. Dead.

Butch (Jack Russel Terrier): One of Muffin's pups. A classic Jack. Good looking dog. Fine manners. Just a few weeks after I met Crystal in the late Spring of 2003, I got a call from my crying mother. He'd gotten into a loose bag of chips in the bathroom trashcan. While foraging for crumbs the bag got stuck on his head. He couldn't get out. Trapped; he suffocated. My heart still breaks for this guy. A disturbing end to his story in every way. Dead.

Then there's DOZENS upon dozens of coon dogs. Mostly Walkers. Some Curs. Skunk, Jim, Susie, Horny (my Dad named him), JB, Chopper, Pac, John, Slammer and there were more.

Mrs. Blonde's had one dog. Ever. Just one. Noel (Maltese) lived to be 37...alright...14. But, that's it. Just one dog. Recounting my dog days when Crystal and I first met, she thought my stories (and possibly me) to be completely insane! And, you probably do too. That's fine. So do I. They're not the norm. But, they're mine. Most are tragic. All involve loss. Yet I gained so much from them!

I'm a dog person and Crystal is for certain dogs. Noel and Chloe being a couple of them.

And, we have Chloe. Right now anyway. As you can read in the blog header, we jokingly began referring to her as our "White Afterthought" after LA was born. We're man enough to admit that at this point, she's become the thought after the after thought. And, that's just not right! She's perfect. Seriously. Adorable. Great with the boys. Leash trained, but you don't even have to use one. She just stays alongside you outside. Stays off the furniture (if you want her to). Goes for runs with us. Loves to ride in the car (and boat). Enjoys cuddling. Knows several commands by hand and/or voice. She's happy. All. The. Time. She's everything we ever wanted. Which is why it's so hard to consider seeing her go. And, why it's so right seeing her go. She doesn't deserve to not get the right amount of attention. We've neglected her.

Flipping through all our photos of her tonight, I approached the "2010" folder. Guess how many photos in almost 900 featured Chloe? ONE! And, that's only because she photobombed a photo I was taking of Boatboy.

To add to it, we started to notice a few months ago that whenever Boatboy is near her for very long he starts sneezing like crazy! We haven't diagnosed him as alergic to dogs. But, we know he can't be around her. [NOTE: Please don't mention this to LA or Boatboy if you personally know them. The last thing we need is for his alergies (or him) to be blamed for anything.]

As of yesterday, Mrs. Blonde found Chloe, what is likely to be her future home: A dog-loving single guy who has a Jack Russell and wants some more company for the two of them. We're all meeting each other tomorrow to feel out the fit.

As I type this, ol' girl is sleeping on the floor next to me and I'm feeling all "It's not you it's me." But, I'm 100% satisfied that her story hasn't ended like the others before her. Still pacing steadily ahead, she's just ready for another chapter.

-Mr. Blonde

Follow Blondes, Poop & Mascara on Twitter @mrsblonde1

#1 turns 4

2010-08-11T07:18:00.002-04:00

While we never really want to admit it, us Gen X parents, some cliches about family life aren't cliches at all. They're shared wisdom. "Time flies" is one worth authenticating.

Never in our wildest dreams did we imagine when this guy was born that he would some day be the oldest brother of four! He's gone from our first little baby boy to our first pre-K bound little man in what seems like a flash.

Happy Birthday, LA!

birth

One

Two

Three

Four

We just love you and love watching you grow up!

32 weeks!

2010-08-05T14:50:00.005-04:00

It's always SO nice to get to see these boys and get good reports. It never gets old!

At 32 weeks they're each measuring at 33 weeks. And, are each 4 1/2 pounds. That's NINE pounds of baby, folks!

Click on the ultrasound image to the left to get a magnified view of their tiny boy cuteness!

I’m Disappointed In Me

2010-07-31T10:11:00.010-04:00

I have a distinct memory of having been gifted a 3D puzzle of sorts when I was around 10 years old. It was complicated. It had brightly colored crazy looking geometric shapes all over it. It folded in obtuse ways. The goal was to get certain shapes and colors to align. It was fun. Think Rubik’s Cube meets Jacob’s Ladder.

The difficulty of the puzzle trumped fun when I got stumped by the trivia of it all and pressed so hardly on a piece of the game that it broke the entire puzzle. After my initial relief (“Ha, I showed you stupid puzzle!”), I remember an overwhelming sense of guilt form over my pre-pubescent heart. At a tender age, I felt the burden of my disrespect for the gift I’d received. I’d taken something I never earned in the first place…and trashed it.

I remember taking the broken pieces to my Mom (she’s known mostly as Grandma these days) and apologizing through the tears rolling down my face. I remember her abruptly ending the phone conversation she’d been on and her saying “It’s ok. You didn’t mean to.” While her grace felt nice and permitted me to relax a bit the fact remained that I DID mean to do it. I was frustrated and responded by destroying my toy. It was NOT an accident. And, I felt horrible over what I’d done.

This brings up two questions:

1) How are you at extending grace in the lives of your children? Are you quick to forgive like my Mom was grasping the moment following an indecent action as a time to teach? Or, perhaps you’re too quick to forgive (“Oh, it’s fine. We’ll buy another one.”) brushing aside the opportunity to talk through the importance of permitting people to make mistakes in life and grow through them?

2) How are you at modeling for your children how to receive that same mercy when YOU need it? Re-read that same question to make sure you understand what I’m asking here. I’m still learning how important it is to receive grace in my life so that I can teach our boys the same life lesson. If you’re a Christian, like Mrs. Blonde and me, then this is essential to the Gospel message because the more you get hung up on yourself and your own issues the less you’re giving Life to others. As Mrs. Blonde puts it so clearly, “Get over yourself!”

If you can’t answer those two questions in the comment section on this entry, how about writing your own post (including stories gets bonus points) and linking back to it in the comment section here? If you’re the Twittering kind, tweet your response(s) including @mrsblonde1 and a link to this post too.

-Mr. Blonde

Smile! New baby pics!

2010-07-09T15:27:00.010-04:00

After yesterday's pregnant-with-twins drama, today's overly positive reports were great to hear from the OB office.

The twins are growing extremely well! They're actually measuring one week ahead of singletons! Ugh! :) Their hearts were fluttering nicely. And, they're all snuggled up next to each other in my belly. "You're baking some good babies in there!" the doc told us.

Enjoy the pics!

the time has come

2010-07-08T21:41:00.017-04:00

I have been reading about this day a lot lately. In my multiples books. On blogs. Thinking it would not happen to me this early. Nope. I have two toddlers at home. I can't slow down. I am going to be running around town until the end. Just like I did with my first two pregnancies. Carrying twins can't be that much harder?!?

Today started out great. A morning to myself. Mother-in law had the boys so I thought perfect time to catch up on laundry, dusting and prepping the house for our house church that meets in our home on Thursday nights. I was feeling great and had no distractions.

The kids came home and I took Boatboy for his 2-year-old well appointment. He got a great report too! 95% in height. 45% in weight. And, "speaks better than most 3-year-olds I (pediatrician) see." A proud mother am I.

Got home. Made lunch for the boys. Then, put both boys down for their nap. Made lunch for myself and mother-in-law. After she left for her hair appointment it was time to rest.

I have had some sore days. And, many sick days in the beginning through this 28-week journey for sure. BUT, today was the day where I realized I had done way too much. Once I started feeling what I thought was some contractions I laid on my side, chugged water and had some more protein. The pulsating, striking pain straight to the downward "area" started to really concern me. After about 2 hours of breath taking pain I decided to call the doctor's office. After hearing my symptoms they wanted me in triage at the hospital immediately. That was not the response I was looking for. Nor was I prepared to have these sweet boys tonight.

I started praying that God would take away the contractions and keep these babies in longer. After calling Mr. Blonde and packing up the big boys (in the pouring rain) I was simply just trying to stay calm...
This cannot be happening. I am only 28 weeks pregnant. We don't have the nursery done. I don't have all the baby stuff out and ready The house is not ready. This is not happening!

Trying so hard to hold it together and prevent the tears welled up in the corners of my eyes as I drive to the hospital to meet Mr. Blonde, I cranked up Justin Bieber so the boys would dance, sing and laugh! That little Disney popster helped too!

Two other times I've walked through those doors so excited! This time, I was in all but complete panic. They were waiting for me. My doctor's office had already called ahead. I was escorted to triage immediately. I laid in the bed hooked up to monitors and waited for news.

I kept asking, "Am I having contractions?" "Am I dilated?" Self talk. Fear. Rebuking it all. Calling on God every second for sustained faith and safety for the twins. And, me.

After a half hour (which seemed to be 2 hours) the first report was good. No contractions. Then, the second report. Just 25% effaced. And, the boys are doing great.

So, what gives?! Why all the pain?! Turns out Baby A is very low and hitting a nerve or sitting on a ligament that is lighting up every pain receptor down south. The ultrasound actually showed him moving his little head in unison with me wiggling around on the bed in discomfort.

Furthermore, the doc believes the cramping is happening from a day of way too much. He also warned me that bedrest is, in fact, the next step in all of this. Three hours later I'm on the couch and the little guy is still causing me complete discomfort.

But, you know what?! I'm HOME!

I am completely unable to do anything since this pain started. So the dreaded time has come. I have to slow down. I'm having two babies. Not one. I'm not superwoman after all.

Thank goodness for an amazing husband who is doing the dishes and laundry right now. It's really hard to sit here and watch him do all of this after working all day and caring for / putting the boys to bed. Oh, and, fetch me ice water! :) I know it is only for a short time, but it is still very hard.

Please keep me in your prayers as I get bigger and bigger and bigger and look and feel like a beached whale. Also that these twin boys stay in me for much longer.

Happy Birthday to my sweet love!

2010-07-06T11:16:00.005-04:00

My amazing husband turns 32 today. As I was planning this "celebration day"...I have had so many emotions run through my mind. So here are a few....

Amos-You are such a blessing to me and all of our kiddos. I am so thankful God hand picked you for me. Thank you for being on this life journey with me. Everyday is something new and I love sharing each moment with you. I celebrate the gift you are to me and our 4 boys. You truly bring out the best in all of us. You love us so well! I love you so much!! Happy Birthday!

I love celebrating birthdays. This morning I made a yummy breakfast served with a candle and LA played his guitar to a Happy Birthday song to Dada. We are very excited for what the rest evening holds.....the boys are having fun preparing for their Dada's arrival!!

last "Family of Four" photo highlights [Part 2]

2010-07-02T12:07:00.004-04:00

You saw Part 1 of our last Family of Four photo session earlier this week. This is Part 2 of our fav shots captured recently by Katelin Carter of Full Pockets Photography.

This is our favorite picture of the two boys from the entire session. They were playing peek-a-boo with "Dadda" and jumping up and down on an old park bench and caught being their playful selves so well in this shot. We're lucky the bench didn't break!

Family of Four (well, six if you count the bumps in Mrs. Blonde's belly visible here to the left of Boatboy).

For what we can recall this is the first hands-on-pregnant-belly shot we have on file. We didn't know Katelin took it until we got the final disc of images. Fitting that such a photo was taken of the last pregnancy we'll ever have (at least we're saying that now...nothing's done until it's done).

The boys

All teeth!

The family portrait classic. Everyone walking away from the camera. Why do we like this so much. Can't see any faces. Can see everyone's cans. Yet, we still like it.

NUTS scare!

2010-06-30T09:18:00.012-04:00

About a month ago, our lives changes forever (no, this post isn't twins related) when we learned through a series of increasingly agitated responses that our 2-year-old, Boatboy, is officially allergic to peanuts. We were told by the doctor it wasn't severe but it wasn't mild either. We were to read labels copiously, check at restaurants where we dine regarding the food preparation and carry Benadryl around just-in-case. And, we've been good at it. Boatboy even asks when I'm reading the side of a box, "No nuts?" Up until Monday, we had experienced no reactions to peanuts because we've been very cautious.

Today was not one of those days.

LA, Boatboy and I ran to Target just down the street to pick up diapers and a "special treat." They chose fruit snacks. Typically they want strawberry but this time they ventured out and picked kiwi-watermelon. Sounds delicious right?! Same generic brand. Different flavor. The boys know they don't their snacks until we get to the van. Once we got to the van I ripped open two bags and handed each their bag. I then drove 500 feet across the parking lot to quickly cash a business check. It hadn't been even 60 seconds since his first bite and Boatboy started coughing like he was choking. In a matter of seconds between just thinking he was coughing and handing him his cup, he starting puking all over the van. I quickly said to my familiar bank lady, "My kid is sick! I will be back later!" And, ripped out of the bank.

Scanning the box ... "may contain traces of peanuts and tree nuts" And, no Benadryl in my purse. I had tears in my eyes racing back to the house thinking...

"How is this happening?!"

"How did I not check the box?"

"I always check the box."

"The normal strawberry target brand that we always get do not have any peanuts in them!"

1 minutes later we were back in the driveway. Snatching my vomit-covered son I ran in and dosed him with the medicine. Van still running in the driveway with my almost-4-year-old, LA, still strapped in this prego was ready to race to the ER if necessary. Astonishingly! - The coughing stopped in about 45 secods. Thank God! We went back out the van and sweet LA was so worried. He said right away "I will get the strawberry fruit snacks next time!" So precious!

Lesson learned.

ALWAYS check the box and ALWAYS carry Benadryl. In a peanut butter loving family, this is especially quite a journey we have ahead of us. It was definitely one of the scariest moments I've ever had as a mother.

I'm so thankful to God we were close to home and this happened with me and not when Boatboy was with someone else.

last "Family of Four" photo highlights [Part 1]

2010-06-28T22:46:00.006-04:00

I wanted to share some of our last Family of Four photos with you from a recent session with Full Pockets Photography. It was megahot out the morning of these photos. But, thanks to a willing aunt & uncle to assist, the wonders of blowing bubbles and bribery of marshmallows, we had a blast!

It is crazy to imagine there are going to be two more little guys in our next family photo session!

I've broken this up into a couple posts along with some other updates you'll see this week from Blondes, Poop & Mascara. We love you, your photography gifts and your friendship, Katelin!

Love this one!!

We found a trail we'd never been down. So, of course, off the boys went.

LA lovin' on the twins. Not a posed photo. :)

Boatboy carrying a stick bigger than him. Again, not a posed photo.

More to come later this week. Hope you all are well!

Nesting. The 3rd trimester begins!

2010-06-07T21:40:00.019-04:00

Is it because my body is really starting to ache?

...or that my head is telling me how big I am really going to be?

...I don't know.

But, I am experiencing pain like I have never felt during pregnancy and I am only 24 weeks. 24 weeks?! That means I'm officially in my third trimester. Wow!

I (mostly Mr. Blonde carrying out my motives) have been trying to get the big boys' room ready, the nursery organized, blinds for our massive picture window in the living area, prepping for a garage sale purge, finding a large dining room table (for SIX!) and putting together a new playroom (office conversion). Along with much more. Nesting they call it.

In addition to preparing our home for two more adorable little boys, I'm preparing in practical ways like getting a rocking recliner instead of a rocking chair to nurse two babies at once instead of just one. Since we're talking nursing, the right gear is also crucial. Like this Peek-a-boo nursing shirt. The Peek-a-boo maternity and nursing collection enables us nursing mommas to breastfeed without exposing ourselves and still looking quite stylish. The side stitching really flatters my belly. I feel good while wearing this shirt! It's practical and comfortable yet stylish. Nobody would ever know it's a nursing shirt! There is also a cute little duck illustration situated on the inside of my tank that is only revealed while feeding. It gives the baby something to look at and provides us Mommas of a little reminder of what side we last fed on. Brilliant!

This is a practical tank that I enjoy now in my 24th week and will continue to enjoy through my nursing days with the twins!

Thanks Peek-a-boo for allowing me to review the cap sleeve tank in exchange for this review. Be sure to check out the entire collection!

maternal comfort

2010-06-01T11:59:00.002-04:00

Comfort, simplicity and bump style. My twins boys are causing me to really find more quality simple pieces that are comfortable as I get humongous!!

This is my 3rd pregnancy and I can't believe I just recently discovered the amazing Bellaband. I am always looking to stretch a dollar and find more comfy clothes while I am preggo. Ingrid & Isabel have it all figured out. They carry only staple items. I love it! So practical and so comfy. The first product that I was thoroughly impressed with is the Bellaband. Some people use it when their maternity pants are too big. But, I love it for support and comfort. I look forward to using it post pregnancy as well.

You also have to check out the Ruched tank. It is my favorite tank!! Last week I wore it 3 days in a row and that includes through the night. That is how very comfortable it is. It looks so cute with a skirt or a cami over it. It is a seamless tank that can expand even more...thank goodness because I look 7 months now and have a long way yet!

Another staple piece is their everyday cami. Again just pure comfort. It is longer than my other preggo cami, seamless and quality. It has been washed and washed and washed and looks brand new each time out of the washer.

I have been very impressed with Ingrid & Isabel. The simplicity of their site and their collection is just brilliant. I love the three pieces I was able to review in exchange for writing my thoughts on this blog. Thanks Ingrid & Isabel. I love love your products!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-26T15:34:00.005-04:00

i. hate. laundry.

2010-05-18T21:27:00.019-04:00

I am completely horrible at laundry. I don't enjoy doing it. It's not a priority during my day. And, I have 25 pair of underwear so I have never need to do that often! BUT, it can't be this way. My husband likes clean clothes in his drawers and not in a basket. I have 2 boys who stain clothes. And I am expecting two more boys!

You know what I love about laundry? When it's done. I really need to work on doing a load everyday to keep up. It was much easier when I was just doing my own laundry. But, that was 7 years ago! It is definitley something I need to improve on. So I kind of laughed when MomSelect contacted me to review a laundry detergent. But I do love detergent that really works and fits our budget.

I was sent some new all Ox-Active Laundry Detergent. I was very excited to give this 2-in-1 advanced cleaning powder a chance. I usually just buy whatever is on sale. But I have been noticing how hard it is to get grass stains out. I have really noticed a difference in the way this new Oxi Active gets out stains. And it doesn't break the budget!! With 2 active boys and an active hubby I need a GOOD and TOUGH laundry detergent!

Oxi-Active delivers cleaning powder that keep whites vibrant and colored clothes extemely bright. It is safe for both traditional and high-efficency washing machines. Ours is "traditional." It is the most powerful all product on the market.

I know I need a laundry detergent that is going to fight stains the first time for a reasonable price. I have almost finished the bottle provided to be and I am loving it! Though it has not changed my motivation to do laundry, I have found a new detergent that really works!

Guess who else gets to try some? You or any other reader that enters to win. I have two bottles to give away! What Mom doesn't want a free bottle of laundry detergent that fights grass stains, blood, wine, grape juice, coffee, formula and chocolate!?

Buy a bottle: $4.49 for a 28 load bottle at most all mass merchandisers and food stores.

Win a bottle: Two Blondes, Poop & Mascara readers will each win a bottle of all Oxi-Active detergent. Leave me a comment about a major stain you have faced.

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Follow @mrsblonde1 on Twitter
4. Tweet about this giveaway like so "Hey! @mrsblonde1 is giving away All Oxi-Active laundry detergent (all-laundry.com) Enter here: http://tinyurl.com/27v6z7y Please RT"
5. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
6. Tell 4 friends via email and cc me.
7. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment.
8. Friend / Fan all detergent on Facebook.

Thank you once again MomSelect and all for allowing me to review a pair of shoes in exchange for my honest review!

sandal season by Eleven

2010-05-10T20:32:00.013-04:00

Once again I'm thrilled to tell you I received a pair of quality shoes from Eleven! This time it's LA's casual sandals from the new Spring/Summer Collection. I absolutely love their vintage styles with classic designs. They are always so playful and modern.

From this collection I chose a very classic brown leather sandal called Rolando. LA loves wearing them. The sole is so durable yet comfortable with amazing traction. It really is like a gym shoe. The top part of the shoe is leather and the inside has a cushioned insole and padded collar for extra comfort. My favorite part is the adjustable velcro! LA wears them running, jumping, climbing and they still look BRAND NEW.

And wow the girls collection is something to see too! Even though there are no girls in our testosterone filled home, I love to check out their feminine collection. Look at these Chloe Berry and Astrid White. So cute and unique.

Buy a pair: Get a classic must-have shoe for your child from Eleven Collection

Win a pair: Eleven is giving one Blondes, Poop & Mascara reader a pair of shoes. Your choice. Leave me a comment on which pair you like most and for whom.

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Follow @mrsblonde1 on Twitter
4. Tweet about this giveaway like so "Hey! @mrsblonde1 is giving away a pair of @ElevenShoes to all those who enter here: http://tinyurl.com/26d2t5n Please RT"
5. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
6. Tell 4 friends via email and cc me.
7. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment.
8. Follow @ElevenShoes on Twitter.
9. Join Eleven's mailing list.

Thank you once again Eleven for allowing me to review a pair of shoes in exchange for my honest review!

Top 10 Responses to our having two more boys...

2010-04-27T08:51:00.007-04:00

As you likely know, on this pregnant-with-twins journey, we found out last Friday that we're expecting TWO MORE BOYS! We couldn't be more excited! We can't appropriately thank the mass number of people that have congratulated us. Our favorite responses are outlined below...

10) "Congratulations!" - several

9) "That's the last thing I expected!" - Jenni (@jennik80)

8) "I wanted girls!" & "You have to try again." - several

7) "Just one more and you'll have a basketball team!" - several

6) "You're stealing all the boys. I want one!" - Sly

5) "Have mercy on your grocery bill in 15 years!" - Emily (@designhermomma)

4) "God must need u 2 to raise some strong men! Just pad a room in the house now!" - Chris (@chrreed)

3) "You've saved approximately $2.4 million in wedding costs by going this route." - Nate

2) / Mrs. Blonde's smile in the ultrasound room /

1) "I'm going to have three brothers!...I love that!" - LA, our oldest son (3.5-yr-old)

have a seat, if you can find one

2010-04-25T13:48:00.012-04:00

When we were redoing our kitchen a few years back, we could not find bar stools to sit at a bistro table anywhere. I think Mr.Blonde and I went in and out of every furniture store that we could find.

I have recently been introduced to AllBarStools.com. A bar stool online store that has every bar stool you could ever need for your home or patio. This Hillsdale bar stool pictured to the left would have been perfect for our modern kitchen. It is a great price and they offer free shipping. AllBarStools.com allows you to find any bar stool for a price in any range while shopping from the comfort of your home instead of the hassle of all those retail in's and out's.

For those of you have outside sitting areas they offer beautiful bar stools and super cute tables like the Caravan Iron Patio set.

Check out AllBarStools.com for the unquie variety of stools and tables they have to offer to meet your needs.

And, look for my upcoming reveiw on Boatboy's sweet new ride for his 2nd birthday!

New shoes for LA: Pediped

2010-04-25T13:11:00.018-04:00

Once again (1st review: 3/09 | 2nd review: 8/09) Pediped has graciously sent me another pair of fabulous shoes for LA (3.5-year-old boy) to try out. I am always excited to receive new shoes in the mail even when they aren't for me. Because I LOVE hip shoes for my 2 little guys. And, if you haven't heard...we will be adding TWO MORE little guys to our family sometime in September.

Pediped has come out with their new 2010 Spring/Summer collection and introduced a new technology that blows me away. This Spring/Summer it is all about washable and keeping the feet dry and odor free! Say goodbye to dirty and smelly shoes in our home (Can you imagine what it's going to smell like after basketball games with four boys in the house?!)! DRYZ is a specially-formulated, odor resistant insole that controls both moisture and temperature. A version of these insoles sell online for $15.99 but are included free in this pair-a great deal, but is included in the Spring/Summer collection!

We were able to review the super cute and sporty Adrian in Chocolate Brown and Tan from the flex line. These shoes are MACHINE WASHABLE!! And if you are like me I have tried to machine wash other shoes before that don't claim to be machine washable and they turn out awful. These shoes are made with clarino, a wash and wear fabric that tolerates a rough wash and tumble. I threw LA's in the washing machine after a day full of mud and let them air dry. They result was perfectly clean shoes without shape or fit problems. There weren't even any hanging threads. Thank goodness because these shoes have to be passed down to 3 other brothers!

Pediped has always offered their exceptionally soft, flexible soles and uppers to help provide healthy foot development. Ultra flexible flex zones provide maximum flexibility and support natural foot motion. Shock absorbing cushions on each heel protect against impact and distribute pressure through-out the foot. Each pair comes with an additional 2mm insole to customize the fit so it's just right for each child. LA loves his shoes. As soon as I opened the package he got really excited and put them on himself right away! The downside was that his little brother (Boatboy, 23-month-old) immediately said "Want some too!" I felt so bad! But, I told him he would get these too. Luckily, that worked!

Go check out Pediped's amazing new Spring/Summer Collection. Follow them on Twitter too @pedipedfootwear. Let me know what you think.

Thank you once again Pediped for allowing me to review a pair of shoes in exchange for my honest review.

my wife is making me cheat

2010-04-22T14:26:00.010-04:00

I mean, that's what it is, right? Circumventing one of the biggest surprises you can get in life is cheating. It just is. To me anyway. If you think I'm crazy or old-fashioned or just plain wrong, I think you're wrong. But, I might be wrong.

We've never done this before. We've never found out the gender of a child prior to birth.

Sparing you the details, I saw my oldest son's head for over two hours and didn't know he was a he until the final push. That two hours for me was otherworldly. It was as intense a situation I've ever been in. We were SO excited. So joyful. So scared. And, Mrs. Blonde was in serious pain (the typical kind of pain though...meaning no major trauma was taking place that God didn't design her to handle). After he was born, I was the one that got to walk out into the lobby and declare my son's name (LA here in blogville) to our closest family (August 2006). It was a defining moment for all of us. I think especially for me. When a new father gets to declare his firstborn son publically a pride from deep within emerges that he didn't even know needed to emerge to begin with. Think of that Lion King scene.

Then, we got to do it ALL OVER AGAIN when Boatboy was born in May 2008. I only got to see his head for like 7 minutes before we knew he was a he. But, still just as authenticating of an experience.

Two years-ish later (January 26)...

Mrs. Blonde: "We are so finding out this time!"

Mr. Blonde: "No we're not. It's cheating. We are NOT finding out!"

/ time lapses /

Banter back and forth. Often of the playful sort.

/ time lapses /

March 1 (excerpt from "discovery" post)...

A few ticks over 30 days since we found out. Ultrasound day! By 10:30amET we got the news we so desired...a happy-perfectly-growing-170bpm-heart-of-a-peanut growing inside Mrs. Blonde's belly! Life! Baby little nubs and baby little swimming...

Then...it happened....

A moment that will work to define the rest of our lives as a family. It...our little peanut...has a neighbor. The same size. The same movements. The same size little sac home as its little friend. We have two already. And, we're getting two more. By October 2nd or sooner we're doubling down.

It wasn't before we left the doctor's office I made two concrete decisions...

1) I'm getting a vasectomy for Christmas

2) You (Mrs. Blonde) can "find out."

Tomorrow: we "find out." Mrs. Blonde is out of her mind excited. I am too. But, I still feel like it's cheating.

***********************************************************************

For those of you (and there are SEVERAL) that just can't wait to hear from us, I am going to attempt to remember to tweet the news which should be around 2pET. Make sure you're following our tweetroll over @blonde1s

a hostage situation

2010-04-15T16:40:00.017-04:00

We were good this year with our tax preparations. On top of it. Probably more so than any year since Mrs. Blonde started her own company - Beauty by Crystal. I ~~bribed my friend with food~~ scheduled a meeting with our accountant before folks were even singing carols in 2009. Like I said...ON IT!

Come mid-February, as expected, we found out we were getting a serious sum of money back from the Feds. I really need to rearrange my withholdings! Of course, two kids doesn't hurt either. And, there will be FOUR for our 2010 taxes. Can you say FO-THOUSAND DOLLA! I digress. Serious sum within this context equates to just under 10% of my annual income. That's serious if you ask me. Thanks to the IRS's fancy website there's a nice little Where's My Refund feature. A few days after we filed April 6 became a very important day. And, not just because it was right on the tail of our 6 year anniversary.

Jump from mid-Feb to April 5 (ONE DAY before we're getting our money back): IRS notification comes in via snail mail.

Hello Mr. & Mrs. Blonde...blah blah blah...confusing mumbo jumbo...blah blah blah...Form ROYGBIV8329...blah blah blah...delayed...blah blah..

WAIT!

WHAT?!

DELAYED?!

What?!

(sighing / obscure profanity / disbelief / Why does God hate me? / etc)

Numerous phone calls and emails to my accountant and the IRS reveal that we filed everything 100% accurately but there seems to be a missing signature. Amidst the next phone call into the IRS:

"Well, that's interesting. It seems that particular form doesn't require a signature. You see, sir.," the agent continues, "The forms go through our mail room before they arrive to where they're supposed to go."

"Uh huh."

"Sometimes sections of returns can be misplaced."

"Alright. So how do we fix this," I inquire trying not to absolutely freak out on this chick.

"Complete the notification sent to you and you should have your refund within a couple weeks."

I step by step then walked through the notification with her to ensure I was doing exactly what they wanted.

"Mam, the form here says this could delay the refund 6 to 8 weeks instead of 2 as you mentioned."

She replies, "You should rely on what the notification says, sir."

"...ok..."

"Is there anything else I can help you with today?"

"No, mam"

In summary: The Federal government is holding on to our money a while longer because the IRS's dog ate my homework. Let's not forget, I'm (along with you) paying their salaries to make these sorts of errors. Oh, and, they're making interest on it while I wait (think they'll pay me that interest back?) AND, I never even got an apology! Not to sound quite so cynical I'm extremely thankful for the U.S. government and the freedoms we have. Public schools, transportation, roads, voting...all of it. But, how is it that I can get better customer service buying a pack of diapers at Target, ordering something through Etsy or winning an auction on eBay than I can from my own government?

-Mr. Blonde

how are things going?

2010-04-13T09:07:00.015-04:00

"How are things going?" everyone asks.

I finally feel like myself again. After hearing Mr. Blonde tell me, he felt like he was "on a island." I thought, "Wow! I was totally out of it." (Mr. Blonde Editor's Note: To be fair I did say that, but it was within the context of having received a very kind supportive text message from Mrs. Blonde with regard to some difficult circumstances. I responded thanking her profusely for the note and that it was clear I wasn't feeling as alone as I had been without her support.) I don't think I have ever felt so tired and not present in my life. I no longer puking or feeling nauseous! Yeah! Crazy to think what in the world my hormones were doing during that time. It was hard not to be able to even talk to my husband because I was so nauseous and couldn't keep my eyes open. I cannot even begin to explain how I felt during those weeks. I am not about to tell you it was easy, but I can tell you that I was still able to find joy throughout the day.

I feel so blessed for the union that I have with my husband! He chooses to pursue me and love me in a ways I cannot explain. And, LA and Boatboy loved me SO well during those weeks. They were extra cuddly and loving with kisses and saying things like, "Momma, you are so pretty!" It's incredible even in my worst days they still view me as pretty and fun and want to take care of me. How can a mother of a 3.5-yr-old and Almost-2-yr-old ask for more? That innocent love of a child is something I desire in my own life. It's awesome what I can learn from God through my little guys.

I have been able to walk almost every day with the boys. And, dance! I am enjoying my growing bump. Embracing this will be my last pregnancy...I think! I am not allowing all the fears I could have invade my life like I was in the beginning. I am more thankful everyday for the life God has given me. God is strengthening my faith daily. That is my biggest prayer request for all you who are praying for me.

"...I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow; not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love." -Romans 8:38 (NLT)

With the help of God I am not worrying about tomorrow. I'm trusting that God has each day planned and growing increasingly comfortable with having nothing figured out myself. It is so funny to me when I talk about nursing, delivering, sleeping, eating, schedules with the first two pregnancies...I kind of have things figured out and now thinking of having the twins...I am clueless. I am finding joy in trusting God with all of my worries (especially finances) and my unknowns. I so look forward to the ride that is ahead of us.

I am so thankful for the family and friends who REALLY know us and are on this journey with us. I don't know what I would do without each of you! Even through the hardest physical and emotional days I love the adventure God has me on and I embrace the beauty of our life. What a joy it is to share my heart with you as God paves my way.

We find out what we are having next Friday! I can't even wait to find out what these critters are!!!

The joys of my boys. Boatboy playing beautiful music and LA organizing Daddas wire nuts and anchors.

if jpegs scratched and sniffed...

2010-04-09T18:54:00.003-04:00

...you could smell how amazing Boatboy's hair smelled tonight after bathtime while we were letting Chloe out to potty. It's like fruit candy but more natural and delicious! Wanna win some all natural scent for your little one? You could win a Zippity Doo's Hair kit by entering now.

"Cheese!"

a Good Friday for fishing

2010-04-08T10:30:00.001-04:00

We've already talked about how last Friday was an extra special Friday for us here at Blondes, Poop & Mascara but we had some additional fun that morning during our first fishing outing of the year with Papa and Nana!

Mr. Blonde and Boatboy rockin' their boat shoes on the way to the lake.

How can 3-year-old, LA, look like such a pro at such a tender age?!

Mrs. Blonde sneaking a squeeze while the little guy is trying to get down.

He LOVES it! (this pic is Mr. Blonde's current desktop wallpaper at the office)

Boatboy and Papa at the wheel.

LA telling a fish story.

Boatboy showing Nana how it's done.

...and, he's ready for a nap!

Zippity Doo Kids hair products review and giveaway

2010-04-07T20:32:00.015-04:00

It is finally Spring! We are loving every minute! What I didn't know about Spring is that it is prime season for head lice. Yuck!! I so remember getting lice as a child and I had hair down to my bottom. It hurt so bad when my Mom had to comb my hair and wash it to get all the bugs out. Blah! I think about my boys and all the places we could get those little gnasties...bounce houses, hats, dress up clothes at the nature center, the children's musesum, gym mats, etc. I also didn't know there was a way to prevent your child from head lice.

Zippity Doo actually prevents your child from getting lice instead of treating the head lice. I have never seen or heard of a product like this. And it is ALL natural. It smells so fresh and amazing. I want to find a scent similar for myself.

There are 5 products in the line. Shampoo, conditioner, detangler, syling gel and shielding spray. All of which I have used on the boys blonde heads. We don't use the conditioner much though.
But I am sure I would on a little girl! Maybe we'll get one of those!? I LOVE the styling gel. I use it everyday. It works really well and allows their hair to stay soft, smell great and prevents head lice. What more could a mom ask for? And I get to give away an entire set!

Buy: The products start at $10.99 at select online retailers

Win: Zippity Doo and BSM Media allowed me to review an entire set valued at $57. I have a set for one Blondes, Poop & Mascara reader. Leave me a comment on why you must have these products and who will be using them.

Extra Enrtries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Googles easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Follow @mrsblonde1 on Twitter.
4. Tweet about this giveaway like so "Yeah! @mrsblonde1 of Blondes, Poop & Mascara is giving away a $60 @zippitydooshair all natural kids hair kit http://tinyurl.com/yb7dlq8"
5. Blog about this contest and leave the post link in your comment.
6. Tell 4 friends about this giveaway via email, provide a direct link and cc me.
7. Follow Zippity Doo on twitter @zippitydooshair

Thanks for entering! I will select a winner on April 14. And thanks to Zippity Doo and BSM Media for allowing to review these amazing products in exchange of this review.

a magnolia & promises

2010-04-02T18:35:00.011-04:00

We have this amazing magnolia that bursts with pinks and purples the first week of April every year without fail. Funny thing is that when we bought our house (April Fool's Day 2004) we didn't know it...

...until we got married two days later celebrated in Costa Rica for a full week and then came home. We turned onto our street for the first time together as husband and wife and this tree sang to us! "Welcome home! Get started on your life as one now would you?!" I get chills thinking of that moment.

The Magnolia to us is everything us.

It brings an unspeakable joy to see it blossom each year. It's a glorious tangible reminder of a covenant we took 6 years ago tomorrow.

A symbol of a relationship.

A romance.

A choice made to put the other first at all times.

A promise authored by God and made before wonderful friends and family.

And, for what we can recall, this is the first year it's come on Easter weekend which makes it extra precious.

Tonight we celebrate 6 years of our marriage union on a surprise date!

Now...if only my wife would get home from her NCAA event we could go eat!!

Check out some posts of our anniversary's from year's past...

pre-2010
2009 a
2009b
2008
2007
2006 & 2005 anniversaries were P.B. - pre blog

bedtime storytime

2010-03-30T23:49:00.003-04:00

long hard week & a joyous ending

2010-03-26T14:42:00.014-04:00

Wow! What a week it has been. Monday night I attended my first multiples group! It was so great! Thanks to my new twin Mom friend through the blog world I had a face to greet me. She was great and introduced me to other Moms who had singleton pregnancies prior to their multiple pregnancies. I look forward to building relationships with those Moms. We broke into a support group environment with pregnant moms, mommas of multiples under 9 months and some experienced mommys to multiples. We went round the horn and shared our stories/scenarios and each got to ask a question.

When I said, "...I have a 3-year-old and a 1-year-old at home..."

one of the experienced Moms said, "I am so sorry. You are going to have your hands full."

I thought what....you are sorry!! Nice to meet you too! Ha!

...then she proceeded to say ..."Wow!" I was kind of laughing inside. People are funny! Good thing I wasn't emotional and didn't start crying like I would have two weeks ago!

But then another Mom chimed in immediately and said, "Yes, it IS going to be lots of work, but it is so much fun!" She said optimistically, "I nursed twins and had another one at home and it was a blast." She was amazing.

It was so great to meet 7 other expectant Moms. I look forward to being on this journey with them. I'm very excited to be a part of the group and very thankful it even exists!!

I have been preparing for a tooth extraction now since about the time we found out I was pregnant for the third time. Stupid infected tooth is so infected it's a risk to me and the unborn(s). So, THE day arrived on Wednesday. No being knocked out. No good pain meds. Don't need drunk unborn babies on our hands. Local anesthetic only.

And it was just as awful as I thought it was going to be. Upside: An amazing dentist/oral surgeon to feel confident in. Getting a tooth pulled while you are wide awake and can hear every little crack and twist and pop is just NOT fun! It took about 2 hours to get the awful molar monster out. Then, I was on my way. What a relief!! Or, so I thought...let's just say Tylenol just does not take away THIS type and level of pain. Enter multiple nights of little/bad sleep, lots of prayer, ice packs, etc. Today has been a better day. The pain has gone from complete insane to very achy. I'm hopeful it's on its way GONE sometime very soon.

Our 13-week appointment was today. We were so excited to hear the twins heartbeats. I just needed to know they were growing and moving around in there. Mr. Blonde met me there while my sweet aunt watched the boys. Even though my tooth was still pulsating out of my head the entire appointment was full of laughing and smiling and pure joy. My doctor is amazing. He is so excited for us and he answered all my questions for today. I will have more!! I am getting so incredibly excited to find out what these little babies are.

To be honest...I think a boy/girl combo would be great. I would love just one girl. More than one scares me. But if it is two, God will give me the wisdom and peace of mind! Adding more boys just doesn't scare me because I already have 2 and I can do it. There isn't all the emotions and sassy stuff happening around here. So to me...boys would just be easy.

But don't get me wrong, I would love to dress up a little girl EVERYDAY. Get ready for dances. Do her make-up. Watch her snuggle with Mr. Blonde. He would be just as amazing a father to a girl as he is to the boys. But it would be different. I think the world of my Dad and would love for him to have a granddaughter! And, in my experience, girls stick around more. I talk to my Momma more than once a day and see her multiple times a week. And, I steal borrow her clothes. When I want free food, I bring the whole family with me! HA! Love you Momma and Dad. You guys are the best! I say this over and over again but I can only hope to be as selfless to my kids as you are to yours.

This whole twin thing is becoming more real as my stomach really grows, I attend a multiples class, talk with friends about my 3rd AND 4th child and dream of nursing both of my precious babies at one time. Wow, I am really having twins and thinking so often of what a family of 6 is going to look like. I get more excited about raising these children with my amazing husband. The joy. The tears. We'll share it all together! I couldn't of asked for a more amazing man to be along with on this journey.

I still have my fearful moments about finances and selling our house. But, I know this was God's plan for us and I embrace that each day. Slowly all those fears are dwindling away as I hear 2 little heartbeats pitter pattering away in my tummy...I marvel at how good God is! I truly LOVE any encouragement, support or prayers. They mean so much to me!

naptime...is close to eluding us

2010-03-24T14:40:00.003-04:00

Nabbed this photo five minutes ago...

Might be his last one. Or , maybe not. We go about 50/50 with them these days. Turtle? He sleeps every day at this time.

Mr & Mrs Blonde 5 years and 355 days ago

2010-03-19T19:42:00.002-04:00

...engaged and less than a month from being wed...

The Boy's Store: $25 gift certificate giveaway

2010-03-19T12:07:00.020-04:00

Having two boys (LA: 3.5-yr-old / Boatboy: 1.5-yr-old); and maybe 2 more on the way I really enjoy finding very stylish boys clothes! I take pride in what my boys look like. If I can't put bows in their hair and have them wearing legginsg and girly dresses everyday...I am determined to have them wearing the hippest t-shirts, hats and shoes. Not that I would want them to be girls...boys are awesome! They are such lovers and full of adventure.

I have found a great store in The Boy's Store. From full outfits already coordinated to socks and shoes and anything in between. They have some great brands as well. I really enjoy Appaman and Le Top.

You can shop by age, brand and even organic items.

We were given 2 very cool t-shirts to review. LA and Boatboy love wearing them. Both t-shirts are quality made and wash well.

LA's shirt is the very cool Front Loader by Appaman which is on sale right now.

Boatboy's shirt is Loud and Proud by Neptune Zoo and it is also on sale.

Get Yours: I love sales. And, The Boy's Store has lots of them. Be sure to check out the accessories and the blog as well.

Win: The Boy's Store is giving away a $25 gift certificate to one Blondes, Poop & Mascara reader. Leave me a comment and tell me what you like best about the special boys in your life and what would want them to get with their $25 gift certificate if they win.

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Follow @mrsblonde1 on Twitter
4. Tweet about this giveaway like so "Hey, @mrsblonde1 of the BlondesPoop&Mascara blog is giving away a $25 @theboysstore gift cert. Enter here: http://tinyurl.com/ydvo5p8"
5. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.

6. Tell 4 friends about this giveaway via email, provide a direct link and cc me.

7. Blog about this contest and leave the post ink in your comment.
8. Sign up for The Boy's Store mailing list.

I will select a winner on March 26th. Thanks for stopping by!

almost wordless wednesday

2010-03-17T23:00:00.002-04:00

in honor of March Madness, let the games begin...

Q&A re: TWINS!!!

2010-03-14T14:27:00.012-04:00

How are you?

Emotionally and physically I am finally getting better!! It has been 5 days since I have puked. YEAH! I am not dealing with extreme nausea. It's still there, but doable. Pregnant hormonal craziness, extreme shock or overwhelming joy aside - I haven't cried for 5 days either! Last week at our local church gathering everytime some would ask me, "How are you?" I would just start crying and laugh at myself while I was crying...LOONEY! Time and time and time again. I could NOT hold back the tears. I'm an emotional person, but not an big crier. Today at our church gathering, the same question came, "How are you?" And, I didn't cry! Pretty proud of myself actually.

Are you showing?

I will be 12 weeks tomorrow and I have a bump that is very noticeable. I just looked at my 1st (LA, now 3.5-yrs-old) and 2nd (Boatboy, now 22-mo-old) pregnancy 12-week pictures and they do NOT look the same. LA pregnancy I still had a very nice flat stomach. Boatboy pregnancy I had a little pooch. And now the twins pregnancy I have a full out BUMP! I am going to be HUGE! Last week I switched to all maternity pants. I was sick of having tight pants around my waist and not being able to MOVE on the floor with my boys. So, maternity stretchy pants: I am in love with you!

How are you with smells?

Everything smells awful! the other night I walked into the bathroom after Mr. Blonde put on his favorite eucalyptus mint lotion after an evening show and about LOST IT! I put my shirt over my face and starting yelling about how I strongly disliked that lotion. Seated back at the couch, I heard the shower come on. My very sweet and loving (and tolerant) husband took a second shower to wash off the lotion. He is the best!

What are you learning through this process?

My favorite question! In short, a LOT! God is really teaching me to trust and surrender to Him. A very wise woman said to me, "God has chosen you." I am honored! Here is the thing...I (we) are SO excited about the twins...holding them...nursing them. Having four children is going to be so fun. It's going to feel so full. And, rich. I struggle with the unknowns as I mentioned in my previous post. I am learning to give over control because I have none over this situation.I have become more peaceful and joyful. Even through the struggles. This is a journey and I am excited to be on it with amazing husband, kids, family and friends.

Thanks for all the support! Please leave comments. I love hearing from each of you. Oh, I am attending a multiples support group tomorrow. I am very excited! I will let you know how it goes!

Are you a model?

2010-03-10T12:12:00.004-05:00

Yes. Yes you are a model. Maybe there's no beach scene or a runway. But, you're a model. A more important one than any centerfold anywhere too.

...So, what are you inspiring those looking up to you to do?

What do they see or think when they see or think of you?

It's scary to think about sometimes. But, here's the thing...you have models in your life too! You're aren't going this alone (and if you are, fix that immediately)! If you're concerned you aren't modeling things in the best way to those you have influence over, then ask some advice from someone you model yourself after. Leadership and loving influence over those around you does NOT, and will not ever, happen naturally. It happens intentionally and sacrificially.

This post was inspired by the photo you see here. Boatboy chasing after LA to do anything he was doing while at the park last weekend.

kiss the cook

2010-03-07T22:41:00.003-05:00

Pampers Cruisers with Dry Max Giveaway

2010-03-07T14:32:00.013-05:00

We have gone through some diapers in our home! And I have tried every brand out there! I'm all about saving a dollar or 2 when it doesn't require me worrying about pee and poop all over. I have always loved Pampers diapers and wipes. They are soft and very reliable!!

So I was excited to try Pampers NEW Cruisers with Dry Max. This is what Pampers says about their new Cruisers...

Pampers Cruisers with Dry Max is the brand's first high performance diaper and the biggest innovation for the Pampers brand in the last 25 years. Pampers has invented the Dry Max technology and applied it to the current Swaddlers and Cruisers core, which allows the diaper to be 20 percent thinner than current Pampers Cruisers without sacrificing any performance. This hard-working diaper locks wetness away and is Pampers' driest diaper ever. New Pampers Cruisers with Dry Max have game-changing benefits for mom, baby and the world.

I received a package of size 4 for little Boatboy. We used them for an entire week and had no leaks. The biggest difference to the size 4 diapers I had are: 1) they are so much thinner 2) much softer 3) larger in front and on the sides. Much more coverage!

I was a little nervous about how extremely skinny they were. But, they worked. They aren't bulky even when full of pee. I was pretty blown away by the new technology. They have to be comfortable for my little guy as he is climbing and jumping and crawling!

I look forward to these new diapers hitting the shelf on March 15th. If the price of these diapers are comparable or close too what I usually spend I will definitley conintue using the Pampers Crusiers Dry Max.

Win: One Blondes, Poop & Mascara reader will win a coupon for a FREE week's supply of the all-new Pampers Cruisers with Dry Max and a Liz Lange Diaper Clutch. To enter, go to www.Pampers.com then come back and let me know what you think you will like best about the new Cruisers.

Extra Entries:

1.Follow @PampersVillage on Twitter
2. Become a Facebook fan of Pampers

3. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.

4. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).

5. Follow @mrsblonde1 on Twitter
6. Tweet about this giveaway like so "Hey! @mrsblonde1 is giving away a week's supply of the all-new @PampersVillage Cruisers. Enter here: http://tinyurl.com/yalqjuo
Please RT."
7. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.

8. Tell 4 friends via email and cc me.

9. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment.

I will select a winner March 14th. Thanks for stopping by. Good luck!

Pampers did provide me with a week of diapers to review for free. The thoughts are mine.

Happy Saturday!

2010-03-06T14:29:00.006-05:00

The boys went to the park while Mrs. Blonde had a Beauty by Crystal gig with YSL...

It's the warmest day we've had in almost 5 months. Glorious!!

Coming to "getchoo!"

Take a break

Big thanks to Grandpa and Uncle O for lending us almost 3 hours of their Saturday morning to help with some yard projects as we get the house ready to sell again. And, to Papa for helping Mr. Blonde with three electric updates in the evening! Love you, guys!

wordless wednesday

2010-03-03T10:15:00.002-05:00

aftershock!

2010-03-02T15:13:00.014-05:00

Last night about a half hour after Mr. Blonde and I had gone to bed he whispers, "Are you asleep?" And of course, I respond, "NO! My mind is racing!" So was his. Mainly of crazy logistics like finances, our house, my very infected tooth that needs to be pulled, timing of when the twins will be born, what it will be like to bring home twins after having two very easy pregnancies and two babies sleeping on perfect schedules??? And, the list could continue. I am still SO shocked today. I thought for the last 10 weeks I had one baby making me VERY sick and very tired. It is crazy to think (and see yesterday) of two swimming babies in my belly!

I could allow fear to creep in almost...

every....

waking....

second....

...but instead I realize what two precious gifts we have been given to grow inside of me. I have surrendered to the fact that I am not in control of finances or our home or physically making these lives. In fact, I'm in control of so very little. I thank God for that! I always did think I wanted 4 kids anyway!!

Today as I was starring at my ultrasound pictures of Baby A and Baby B I wept of pure excitement and overwhelming joy. As I spent some time journaling my thoughts and I found much comfort in this...

"Fear not, for I am with you. Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous hand." -Isiah 41:10

As I read each sentence I thought, "YES you are with me, and YES you will strengthen me to be the best Mom for my family and YES you will help me with everything that comes my way." And I was extremely comforted.

This is an exciting time for our family! So many unknowns make things. But, we are very excited!

"Are there twins in your family?" we keep getting asked. YES! My dad's sisters, Aunt Debbie and Aunt Patty are twins. I have always known that there was a better chance for us than others. But that 3% chance was enough now wasn't it!?

Speaking of family - I am BEGGING my Mom to quit her job to be my (and the twins too) nanny! Anyone who sees her or knows her, please encourage her to QUIT her job!!! I NEED her!! We are very blessed to have great family and friends that are practically throwing themselves at us to help in every way possible. You guys are all amazing! But, yeah...drop my Momma some heavy hints please!!

Thank you for all of the encouragement through email, facebook, twitter and phone calls. Please keep the prayers coming. We need them! Anyone you know who has had multiples (Jenni, Jami, Jen) please send any support my way...I am clueless! And, I would REALLY like to talk to anyone who has had mutiples after they've already had children. I would love to pick your brain!

discovery

2010-03-01T21:22:00.020-05:00

When have you been really surprised in life?

Really truly surprised?

Go on...think about it.

How about the first time you fell in love? Or, out of love?

When you were proposed to? Or, how insanely nervous you were when you did the proposing?

Or, when you found out you were going to be parents together?

When that first little bundle came to be...how surprised were you how deeply your heart fluttered when he/she first looked at you?

And, what about the time you found out you were going to have another baby?

Or, how surprised you were that you could love that second baby as much as the first one, but in a different way as different as the siblings are themselves?

God, those were beautiful surprises! Some of them continue to surprise us every day...

Take January 26th for instance. One month and one day after Christmas. We had our first suspicion when Mrs. Blonde didn't spill just one cup of coffee in 10 minutes time. But, two. Mr. Blonde picked up a couple tests and within two seconds POSITIVE jumped off the little stick. Wow! THREE! Really? Yes. Yes! We're going to have a third beautiful baby! We were thrilled. And, scared. And, got really practical all of a sudden...housing logistics, money, crib thoughts, money, name options, money, etc. We also thought about money a bit.

TODAY (March 1): A few ticks over 30 days since we found out. Ultrasound day! By 10:30amET we got the news we so desired...a happy-perfectly-growing-170bpm-heart-of-a-peanut growing inside Mrs. Blonde's belly! Life! Baby little nubs and baby little swimming...

Then...it happened....

A moment that will work to define the rest of our lives as a family. It...our little peanut...has a neighbor. The same size. The same movements. The same size little sac home as its little friend. We have two already. And, we're getting two more. By October 2nd or sooner we're doubling down. Plenty more to come...

Tatutina: personalized and crafty

2010-02-22T14:36:00.008-05:00

I love personalized items for the boys. Especially practical things that make my life easier. Tatutina is out of Massachusetts and run by a Mom and Daughter team. I love it! Their mission is to bring unquie products into this world that reflect a happy and fun lifestyle.

The first thing that stood out to me was the bold colors. They really do make you smile! I received 2 crayon caddies for my little guys. They love them! It is so fun for them to organize and pick up of their crayons for their very own caddy. It's light weight with a cord handle and sturdy enough to be used by our two crazy little men. Ours has been dropped a few times already and held up like a champ.

Tautina has several great gifts and ideas for your kiddos. I have my eye on this very cool dinosaur stool next!

Get yours! Crayon Caddy Sports for just $20. Head over to Tatutina to check it out!

Thank you Tatutina for allowing me to review your amazing products. I received no payment for writing this review.

snow day!

2010-02-09T21:44:00.011-05:00

On Monday we got some time at home with Mr. Blonde for a little fun in the snow!

LA pushing his little brother down the hill!

LA getting so excited he didn't even need his sled!

Oh, well!

Wee!

Boatboy walked over underneath this massive spruce to take a breather.

(Click on this one to see how huge a grin Boatboy has. So cute!)

Momma teaching the boys how to build a snowman.

LA reminding his brother who's bigger and stronger (at least for now).

Dadda and Time Out reminding LA it's not alright to pummel his brother over in the snow.

"Mush!"

Thirsty?

my favorite blue crew

2010-02-08T19:20:00.001-05:00

The Colts might have let me down, but these three never do!
-Mr. Blonde

Pampers Dry Max diapers giveaway

2010-01-28T17:06:00.008-05:00

You can try these NEW Pampers for FREE. They're Pampers driest ever diapers and they're 20% thinner!

Starting tomorrow, January 29th, you need to visit Pampers.com to receive a free 3-pack of Pampers NEW diaper-cruiser with Dry Max!

To celebrate the upcoming Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games, Pampers Diapers has partnered with Team USA to introduce new Pampers Swaddlers and Cruisers specially-branded Team USA diapers with the Dry Max technology. The babies of Team USA athletes will be equipped with the new product(s). Although these limited-edition Team USA diapers will not be for sale, some of the stock is being used for promotional purposes!

If this sample you get includes a Team USA diaper you win a year's supply of Pampers Cruisers Diapers with Dry Max. These will go fast, so head over to Pampers.com to get your FREE sample pack.

I am also doing a review and giveaway linked to this promo very soon. Stay tuned!

Berry messy!

2010-01-27T14:45:00.007-05:00

Today I was making lunch and realized I was completely out of fruit. Then, I remembered I had frozen fruit in the freezer for smoothies. Note to self (and you): Never feed your children frozen fruit. It was out of control messy, but they LOVED it. LA and Boatboy ate the entire bag and wanted more. LA, of course did not get messy, but my little Boatboy sure knows how to get messy. At first I was like "This is going to be a disaster!" Then, it got so bad I just laughed out loud thinking "You're only a kid once."

This was a picture from the beginning. I forgot to take a picture when they were done because I was so distracted with the mess. We headed straight for the bath! Mr.Blonde would have died. Our eldest gets his cleanliness from his father. "Everything has its place," is his famous line. Don't get me wrong, I am blessed to have a very clean man. But messes like this make me laugh out loud because he would have been freaking out during lunch today...so this picture is for you Honey!!

Wordless BLUE Wednesday

2010-01-26T18:53:00.004-05:00

Mrs. Blonde / LA / Mr. Blonde
Three years ago Superbowl Sunday

brotherly love hurts

2010-01-18T12:57:00.024-05:00

Our oldest son, LA, is 3 1/2 now. His younger brother, Boatboy, is 19 months. The past 5 months have been my hardest yet as a Mom. I think it all really started when LA turned 3 and we gave his paci away and Boatboy started becoming very mobile. Those two world-wrecking things happened to him within a period of a month or so. He turned into a child we didn't even recognize. He was so unkind to his brother. He would push and say, "I don't like you brother!" So sad. I wanted to cry almost every time he said it! We had already introduced spanking into his life, but it was so seldom used. It turned into part of the daily routine when timeouts just didn't work. I thought I would never have a child that I would have to spank. I thought, "I am too good of a Mom to have a disobedient child." Oh, how wrong I was! I have been very humbled the last few months with not being in complete control. I have dug very deep for extreme patience and the ability to be very consistent. One thing that really kept me going when the boys were not getting along was knowing that relationships take time to form. God gifted me with these two boys to help form a relationship and to mold me more into the woman He created me to be...I am learning.

LA and Boatboy are very different and it is exciting for me to figure how they each need to be loved differently. LA and I could sit and read 20 (no exaggeration) books together, do crafts and just hang out. Boatboy sits through maybe 2 pages of a book. He loves to dance, sing very loud, do puzzles, chase, talk to complete strangers and be super goofy! They are such beautiful and unique gifts to me. I want to be a Mom that embraces the differences and supports them. The thing is, sometimes I have no idea what I'm doing! I pray every day that God would show me how each of my children need to be loved. I am also very thankful each day I am still able to receive such selfless love from parents. I hope to love my children the way they have always loved me!

Just prior to Christmas-time, a light came on for LA and he started enjoying his brother. At first I was thinking, "Wow! We are having a great day!" Then, the next day was good. And, the next day. After a lot of work, prayer, a VERY supportive and involved hubby and a 5'o clock glass of wine or beer a few days a week - I have finally seen the fruits of brotherly love! LA loves to teach and include Boatboy in almost everything he does these days. And, Boatboy loves to laugh and bother his older brother with everything. I love watching them grow and learn together.

It is a reminder to me of how much God loves me.

And believe me when I say we still have our bad days...but those bad days are nothing compared to the recent valley we muttled through. I would love to hear any of your fun boy stories!

Embedded below is a video that reminds me that the fun we have together will sometimes have its pains. :)

Go COLTS!

2010-01-16T15:52:00.001-05:00

[Editor's Note: 1/18/10] - No, we did not go the Baltimore game. This photo was taken on 12/27/09 when we lost to the New York Jets. I guess we'll get to rectify that come this Sunday!

Skin MD sheilding lotion giveaway

2010-01-12T12:56:00.017-05:00

Happy New Year! Yes, I know it's half way through January and I'm just getting that out to you. I know it's been a long time since the last post when several friends and family are writing to see "if you're alright." Makes me feel loved! It has been a nice break to just be with my family, recap our past year and set goals for 2010. We had an amazing, but challenging past year. We are excited for 2010! I feel very blessed to have this blog to share our family with yours. And to be able to review and giveaway so many amazing products. I love trying out new products and giving great products away! I have some great stuff coming up!

To kick off 2010...Skin MD shielding lotion
You all know I heart anything natutral and organic. When contacted to review a moisturizer that is over 90% all natural with all food-grade ingredients AND on the FDA's most safe list I was pretty excited. There are no fragrances, parabens and colorants. Making it hypoallergenic.

I found the shielding lotion to be quite unique. Most artificial moisturizers only add moisture to the surface of the skin, but do little to repair the skin's natural barrier. Skin MD breaks the dry skin cycle by bonding to the outer layer of skin, strengthening skins natural barrier against toxins that dry your skin, while locking in the skin's natural oils. It makes a great base for makeup with its protective abilities alone but it is also light weight, fast absorbing and non greasy.

I have very dry skin (especially in these Indiana winters) and I always fell like I need more moisture in my moisturizer. So this product made a GREAT day moisturizer/make-up primer. I feel my skin is protected while wearing my shielding lotion.

This is a very safe moisturizer for the great price of $25.

Win a bottle:
Skin MD is giving away one bottle of shielding lotion to a lucky Blondes, Poop & Mascara reader. Please leave me comment telling one thing you like about this moisturizer and why you need it.

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Follow @mrsblonde1 on Twitter
4. Tweet about this giveaway like so "Hey! @mrsblonde1 is giving away a bottle of all-natural @Skinmdnatural shielding lotion. Enter here: http://tinyurl.com/ybalw38 Please RT."
5. Follow @Skinmdnatural on Twitter.
6. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
7. Tell 4 friends via email and cc me.
8. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment.

I will select a winner Wednesday, January 20. Thanks for entering!

ELEVEN kids shoes winter collection GIVEAWAY

2009-12-27T09:42:00.015-05:00

I love to dress my little LA (oldest son - 3.5-yr-old) in Eleven shoes! I'm excited as always to share with you their new line. The Winter Collection. They have designed yet another amazing line for boys and girls.

Eleven shoes are very functional. I love a pair of shoes that can be dressed up with a sweater or worn with a t-shirt. Their shoes are made of all soft leather and very durable soles for superior traction. The soles are super cushioned and easy to slip on and off with velcro or zipper closures. Eleven shoes are available in sizes 9-3. Perfect for children ages 3-8.

I was thrilled to receive the Josef in size 10. We are on our 3rd pair of Eleven shoes and LOVE them even more. I chose the Josef for our winter casual shoes. They are a vintage-inspired navy and gray trainer all about comfort and style.

Buy a pair: Go get your very own Eleven shoes. Buy two pair right now and receive FREE shipping!

(LA is wearing his Josef shoes with Dadda and Boatboy in front of lovely Christmas tree adorned atop our very COOL minivan!)

Win a pair: Eleven is giving one Blondes, Poop & Mascara reader a pair of shoes. Your choice. Leave me a comment on which pair you like most and for whom.

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Follow @mrsblonde1 on Twitter
4. Tweet about this giveaway like so "Hey! @mrsblonde1 is giving away a pair of @ElevenShoes to all those who enter here: http://tinyurl.com/y9kbvyy Please RT"
5. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
6. Tell 4 friends via email and cc me.
7. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment.
8. Follow @ElevenShoes on Twitter.
9. Join Eleven's mailing list.

I will select a random winner on Monday, January 4.

there's just something magical about bounceparks

2009-12-26T13:48:00.002-05:00

...isn't there? And, yes, Mrs. Blonde took the boys down the slide too. re: All the BPM boys photo here.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T10:14:00.003-05:00

UPrinting custom postcard giveaway

2009-12-23T13:28:00.012-05:00

Quickly on the tail of having received our Christmas cards, I got the good word that I get to host ANOTHER UPrinting custom postcard giveaway! In exchange for writing this review, I get another 100 for myself as well. This time, they will be thank you cards for all my lovely Beauty by Crystal clients!

UPrinting printed our Christmas cards. Four color over four color glossy postcards with whatever we wanted on them. Their handy online templates are great for even the novice designer.

UPrinting is a quality printing company with great ethics. My favorite thing about the company is their ecological consciousness through FSC certification, SFI certification, use of recycled papers and soy ink! Their web interface is easy to follow too!

UPrinting is giving away 100 postcards to one lucky winner. I would love to hear what you will use the postcards for if you win.

Win them: One Blondes, Poop & Mascara readers will receive 100 postcards.
Size: 4x6; Paper: 14pt glossy cardstock; Printing: Full color both sides
Shipping: As the winner, you will need to cover shipping charges on your own this time.

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Follow @mrsblonde1 on Twitter
4. Tweet about this giveaway like so "Another great giveaway! @mrsblonde1 is giving away a custom @UPrinting postcard giveaway. Enter here: http://tinyurl.com/y945rry Please RT."
5. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
6. Tell 4 friends via email and cc me.
7. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment.
8. Follow @UPrinting on Twitter.

I will select a winner January 2. Thanks for entering!

LA sees his new room (pics and video)

2009-12-21T13:12:00.011-05:00

NOTE: The payoff for this post involves a 2min video which means you should be using broadband while reading this for the full effect.

We have been wanting to paint LA's room for years. Literally. We just never did because we were moving. Now..we're not moving. At least for now. So, the first order of business on Mr. Blonde's Christmas vacation was getting LA a proper toddler room aesthetic.

his old room was the inherited guest bedroom turned playroom

two coats of hi-end primer and the red wall was covered

the first blue wall done

Mrs. Blonde working the orange stripe at 1am this morning

While the room still isn't done, Mr. Blonde captured video of LA seeing it for the first time earlier this afternoon. His reaction was well worth the work and wait...

...his favorite color is orange in case you couldn't tell.

Fashionthropic eco-friendly organic tee's holiday offer

2009-12-16T12:13:00.005-05:00

Order $35 or more and get a FREE $10 GIFT CARD before the end of the year and receive a FREE $10 skreened gift card with your purchase. Visit fashionthropic.org to shop now.

There is never a minimum order and you can customize any design with tons of style and color options.

Fashionthropic partners with Skreened using new technology to print soft, durable, full color prints directly onto garments. It's an efficient printing process that allows printing of as few as one item cost effectively. In addition to our technology, we only print onto garments that have been manufactured in verified work conditions that do not exploit workers. Ethical and stylish lineup of apparel comes from American Apparel in Los Angeles.

on the 3rd day of Christmas...

2009-12-14T14:41:00.002-05:00

my true love gave to me...three blonde boys bouncing down a very large indoor blow up slide!

Baby Snazz giveaway!

2009-12-09T09:51:00.010-05:00

If you have not heard of Baby Legs then allow me to introduce you to these fancy, universal leg warmers called Baby Legs from Baby Snazz.

Your kiddo can wear Baby Legs so many ways. Since I have 2 boys my little guys don't get to experience them the way they would if they were girls, but little guys can wear them too. Though my husband adamantly disagrees..."If their legs are cold they can wear pants!" He thinks they are girlie. BUT, he has liked the practical way of wearing them...under pants to keep the legs warm and on the arms to look like a t-shirt! So YES boys can wear them as well!

If you do not have Baby Legs you need to get a pair for your children. I think they are great and if I had a girl, she would wear them all the time under skirts! So stinking cute! And they carry an organic line. YEAH!

Baby Snazz has so many other great products to offer. The founder of Baby Snazz has 4 girls....so, she definitely knows what works and what doesn't!Be sure to check out their other great stylish gear!

Buy a pair: Prices starting at only 6.97

Win a pair: Baby Snazz is giving a pair of Baby Legs from their ORGANIC line to one Blondes Poop & Mascara reader. Please let me know who will be wearing these amazing Baby Legs. And which pair you must have if you win!

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Tell me your favorite thing about my blog that isn't a review or giveaway.
4. Follow me on Twitter (@mrsblonde1)
5. Tweet about this giveaway like so "@mrsblonde1 is giving away a pair of organic Baby Legs by @babysnazz Enter up to 10 ways! http://tinyurl.com/ykhwv9k Please RT"
6. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
7. Tell 4 friends via email and cc me.
8. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment.
9. Sign up for Babysnazz email newsletter on the bottom right of the homepage.

I will select a random winner on December 14. Thanks for entering.

Thanks Baby Snazz for sending me Baby Legs in exchange for writing this review.

snacktime snapshot

2009-12-06T21:52:00.000-05:00

Bring the BOON!

2009-11-29T21:15:00.007-05:00

As many of you know, we have quite a few Boon items in our home. And I continue to fall more in love with this company every time I try new products. Boon seems to approach their design of their toys with as much empathizes on style as functionality. The result is very cool and unique for kids!

I am excited to share what a great all around company that Boon is... I absolutely love the modern flair of all their products, but the best part is that they give back 10% of their proceeds to children in need. AMAZING! Everything Boon makes is PVC, phthalate and BPA-free. So, if any of these bright colored pieces of plastic ends up in your child's mouth you won’t have to worry about any of the health risks that have been linked to other not-so-safe plastic baby toys on the market.

Check out these three amazing products I was sent to review.

1. Designer Toys and Scrubbies were a huge hit with the boys as you can see them on our bath walls. They make great teething toys as well as bath toys. And they don't absorb any water which means no mold!

2. FLO protects the child's face/head from hitting the hard metal spout, allows the water to come out like a waterfall which makes it very easy to wash hair, and it is a bubble bath dispenser. I was in awe of this product!

3. Fluid toddler cup was a huge hit with LA who is three. Great functional cup. My only complaint it does leak if it gets knocked over. That doesn't stop LA from getting very excited to use his Boon cup.

I encourage yo to start adding some Boon to your home. It is safe and their products are quality!! Your kids would not be disappointed receiving something from Boon this Christmas season!

Get Lit! - an annual family tradition

2009-11-27T23:10:00.008-05:00

Our city does this outstanding Black Friday evening celebration every year to start the Christmas season. A bunch of folks gather downtown for FREE. There's singing and dancing and street vendors selling things that light up and Santa comes...then at the magic time, the switch gets flipped and the monument ("big statue" as LA calls it) gets lit up. Then, there is about a 10 minute fireworks display. It's fantastic if you're into having fun while celebrating with other humans. Which we do...When Amos and I first started dating we went for the first time and haven't missed one since. 6 years running. Tonight was another outstanding time. A few quick shots for you below...

Kickboard USA Mini Scooter

2009-11-24T21:47:00.008-05:00

What toddler doesn't need to burn some energy. I know my little LA (3.5 yr old) has way too much energy everyday!! Most days I send him outside and cheer him on as he runs laps around our house. If it's too cold, we do the same inside. We hit 19 laps yesterday. It was amazing!

I came across KickBoard USA who carries scooters for all ages. I loved when I saw an orange Mini scooter built for older toddlers. And, orange is his favorite color!

The mini scooter has a 'lean-and-steer' design, in which children use their body weight to
control steering. It gives kids the feeling of 'surfing' the sidewalk this ability to curve right and left, almost like a skateboard, adds an element of fun and control that young children love. Probably like what surfing on a sidewalk would feel like.

The mini scooter is designed with 3 wheels, providing greater stability and control. The polyurethane wheels create a quiet smooth gliding ride.

The kickboard is low-to-the-ground and large enough for two feet, making it easy for young children to hop on and off as need be, or to switch from pushing to just enjoying the ride. In either case, this toy promotes motor skill development and balance.

The brake at the back adds additional control, and kids like it because its just like the big kid scooters. For parents, the mini scooter is light weight (only 1.5kg), so it's easy to pick up and carry.

Some additional specs...

* The front wheels are 4-inch in diameter and the one in back is 3-inch.

* The two wheels in front are placed 8 inches apart for stability.

* The handle grips are a thick, durable, comfortable foam.

* The length of the deck is 300mm.

And, get this! -- All KickBoard products manufactured with the highest standard of quality control at an ISO-certified manufacturing plant in China. The factory is accredited with ISO 9002 international quality standard. Coupled with an extremely competent R&D team, the factory is always poised to produce the best and most innovative Micro/Kickboard products.

This would be an amazing Christmas gift for any child. Kickboard USA is offering all Blondes, Poop & Mascara readers a 15% discount until December 15. Enter code BLONDESPOOPMASCARA. Happy shopping!

"city" living it shall stay

2009-11-20T16:00:00.004-05:00

...not that we were ever really leaving the city in trying to sell our house, but we pulled it off the market on Monday. After a full year of trying to sell and an estimated 40+ showings, we couldn't bear the notion of going into the winter months and trying to pull off the you-have-two-hours-to-ready-your-house-for-a-showing stunt.

We heart our home. And, for now, we're settled with God not selling our home so that we can free ourselves up to give more away. Please don't confuse settled with understand. It still doesn't make sense to us. This action for us is really the anti-American dream.

Anyway, our stay means we get much more outdoor life out our huge front picture window for at least one more Hoosier season...

(click for larger view)

Which we love!

Fashionthropic / Skreened $10 gift card

2009-11-19T09:16:00.011-05:00

Limit 1 per customer. Total calculated before shipping and tax (if applicable). Ends 12/31/09 or while supplies last.

Skreened (@skreened) is offering any Fashionthropic store visitor a FREE $10 gift card with a $35 purchase.

You're practically losing money and style if you don't take advantage of this. Check out Fashionthropic for fantastically philanthropic ecologically-friendly fair-trade fashionable gift ideas for the upcoming holiday season!

Less Naughty. More Nice. Ergo Baby carrier (giveaway)

2009-11-18T14:25:00.017-05:00

Less Naughty. More Nice. is a way for me to promote amazing products with reviews and giveaways! I am sharing ethically produced products in advance of the Christmas buying season. I have a heart for fair trade, eco-friendly and U.S. made companies. It will continue through November 21st. I am receiving no financial compensation for these promotions. However, I have received sample product in order to supply you an authentic and honest review.}

By now you know I LOVE to wear my babies! I have found an amazing carrier by ERGObaby. I have to start with the most exciting thing to me about the company..their ethics. Yes, the carrier is amazing and I will get to that, but it makes me proud to wear my little guy in a carrier that I know was made fair trade. All carriers are made by workers 18 and older. ERGObaby carries an entire line made with 100% organic cotton. Love it! They also carry a line of Standard cotton carriers. ERGObaby is family owned and operated out of Maui, Hawaii. I have had such a pleasant time working with them. From using their website to direct contact via email. Makes me smile when a company loves what they are doing. Their passion for a great carrier really shows.

I chose to review the Organic green carrier with silver lining. My little Boatboy loves it. It's great that I can now wear him on my back as well. It is extremely comfortable either way and feels very secure. And this carrier is for an infant through toddler.

"ERGObaby’s baby carrier design supports a natural sitting position for babies, eliminating compression of the spine and hips that can be caused by unsupported suspension. The baby carrier also balances the baby's weight to parents' hips and shoulders, and alleviates physical stress for the parent."

I am very excited to give away an entire ERGObaby system ($193 value) compliments of ERGObaby themselves. The system includes the carrier, backpack and a front pouch. All components can be used individually or attached together for truly hands-free babywearing.

Buy your own: Check out the many options to choose from starting at 120.00. This would make an incredible gift to any expecting Mom!

Win your own: As I mentioned above, ERGObaby is giving away a system to one lucky Blondes, Poop & Mascara reader. Head over to ERGO baby and tell me your favorite color and why you must have this carrier!

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Tell me your favorite thing about my blog that isn't a review or giveaway.
4. Follow me on Twitter (@mrsblonde1)
5. Tweet about this giveaway like so "@mrsblonde1 is giving away an @ERGObaby organic carrier system (~$200 value) as part of #LessNaughtyMoreNice http://tinyurl.com/ykddc2f"
6. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
7. Tell 4 friends via email and cc me.
8. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment.
9. Follow @ergobaby on Twitter
10. Become a Facebook fan of ERGObaby

I will select a winner on BLACK FRIDAY, November 27. Thanks for entering!

The winner is zealandsmom who was random.org number 12. Congrats and thanks to everyone who entered!

ironing made easy

2009-11-18T09:17:00.011-05:00

Ironing has never been something I enjoy doing. Since I been married, I have found myself purchasing clothes that say wrinkle-free much more often to avoid said task. Unfortunately, not all clothes say that. And, not all clothes that say that actually do that. Up until a couple weeks ago when Mr. Blonde would hand me a wrinkled shirt I would just throw it in the dryer and remove it quickly and say "You're good to go!" or rewash a shirt because the wrinkles were just too much to tackle.

When I was sent a Panasonic 360 Quick iron to review I was quickly intrigued by the shape and asked myself what is SO good about this iron. I am extremely impressed. I have ironed with the 360 and gotten gitty with excitement as the wrinkles quickly disappear.

First item to tackle...A silk dress that should have been dry cleaned 2 times ago, but I needed to wear it in 2 hours for a wedding. So...I fired up my new 360 Panasonic iron and steamed away. I spent 3 minutes ironing the entire dress and all wrinkles were gone!! My first Awe moment with my iron. Let me remind you I have had a $14.99 iron for 6 years and it never completely took any wrinkles away and it was a chore to just iron 1 shirt.

Second item of attack...A men's cashmere sweater that should be dry cleaned, but I am too ~~cheap~~thrifty. Wash on gentle cycle. Let dry on dining room chair. Left with 2 points on the shoulders. Fire up the 360 and turn on the steam. Took the bumps away immediately. I am not talking about 3 or 4 times over the bumpy area...1 time each. In awe once again.

Last item of attack...A pair of thick woman's jeans that were wadded up in the bottom of the clean clothes pile. And I needed to wear them immediately! Of course, I did! The dual pointed ends makes ironing pants VERY easy. It also has controls for all types of fabrics.

I must say I am huge fan of my Panasonic 360 Quick iron. Still not my favorite thing to do, but it has drastically cut my time in half. And it really works. What more could I ask for?!

night night weekend

2009-11-15T22:21:00.001-05:00

...work week here we come

Less Naughty. More Nice. UPrinting custom postcard (giveaway)

2009-11-14T13:47:00.012-05:00

{Less Naughty. More Nice. is a way for me to promote amazing products with reviews and giveaways! I am sharing ethically produced products in advance of the Christmas buying season. I have a heart for fair trade, eco-friendly and U.S. made companies. It will continue through November 11th. I am receiving no financial compensation for these promotions. However, I have received sample product in order to supply you an authentic and honest review.}

I am getting very excited to create our Christmas postcards. And thanks to UPrinting they will look amazing! I've mentioned it before and will continue to...UPrinting is a quality printing company with great ethics. My favorite thing about the company is their ecological consciousness through FSC certification, SFI certification, use of recycled papers and soy ink! Their web interface is easy to follow too!

I am very excited to tell you that UPrinting is giving two Blondes, Poop & Mascara readers 100 postcards. Like I mentioned above I will be using the free 100 postcards that I am receiving for writing this review for our family Christmas cards. But these postcards could be used for anything. Baby announcements, parties, business, thank yous...whatever you can dream up. Be creative. I would love to hear what you will use the postcards for if you are one of the two winners.

Win them: 2 Blondes Poop & Mascara readers will receive 100 postcards.
Size: 4x6; Paper: 14pt Cardstock Gloss; Printing: Full color both sides
Shipping: FREE UPS Ground Shipping in the US. Leave a comment letting me know what you will use them for.

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Tell me your favorite thing about my blog that isn't a review or giveaway.
4. Follow me on twitter... mrsblonde1
5. Tweet about this giveaway like so "@mrsblonde1 is giving away 100 custom postcards by @UPrinting to 2 lucky winners as part of #LessNaughtyMoreNice http://tinyurl.com/yhyz7n9"
6. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
7. Tell 4 friends via email and cc me.
8. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment.
9. Follow @uprinting on Twitter.

I will select a winner November 18. Thanks for entering!

Less Naughty. More Nice. ReUsies snack bags (giveaway)

2009-11-14T13:18:00.013-05:00

I have found a way to start to eliminating the use of sandwich bags in our home. We go through so many plastics. I pack lunch for Mr. Blonde and snacks for the kids every day. It is crazy how wasteful I am!

I found ReUsies. They are a re-usable alternative to sandwich/snack bags. Each one has the potential to eliminate hundreds of plastic bags. This idea was developed by some passionate Seattle Moms with the hope to change our world for generations to come. Way to go for inspiring so many to make a difference in such a practical way!

These great little ReUsies are made of 100% cotton, lined with water resistant nylon (BPA, Lead and Phthalate free). They're made in the USA. They come with velcro closures that are very kid-friendly and assure the food won't fall out!

* Plastic bags make up over 10% of debris found on US Coastlines.

* Every plastic bag we use will be around for centuries, long after our children outgrow their lunchboxes.

* Each plastic bag takes over 1,000 years to break down. Plastic bags do not biodegrade, they photodegrade whereby over time they breakdown into smaller, more toxic petropolymers.

* Less than 1% of plastic bags are recycled. It costs more to recycle a plastic bag than to produce a new one.

If you have kids and use plastic baggies then you should for sure check these ReUsies out! Oh, and one of my favorite things are they are dishwasher friendly!

Buy some: Use coupon code 3ORMORE to get 10% off your order of three or more ReUsies.

Win some: ReUsies is giving one Blondes, Poop & Mascara reader 1 sandwich (8.75) and 1 snack size (6.75) ReUsies bag. Leave a comment letting me know your favorite ReUsies print.

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Follow me (@mrsblonde1) on Twitter
4. Tweet about this giveaway like so "@mrsblonde1 is giving away a pair of @ReUsies sandwich/snack bags as part of #LessNaughtyMoreNice Enter here http://tinyurl.com/ylzzccq"
5. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
6. Grab my Less Naughty. More Nice. button and post it to your cyber space.
7. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment

Thanks for entering. I will randomly select a winner November 20.

Five for Fighting Slice review

2009-11-10T19:59:00.010-05:00

First things first. Five for Fighting is a band name. But, there's no band. It's John Ondrasik and his piano. It's confusing. It's always been confusing. As a professional in the communications industry you might think this would bother me...but I've always liked it for the unique approach. Not much of a hockey fan either. But, I've always like Five for Fighting.

I was captivated by the songmanship and simplicity of Five for Fighting's second release America Town in early 2001. Following the tragedy of 9/11, John's song Superman got sweeping worldwide attention for it's heroic anthem amidst the ashes. Five for Fighting performs songs written with an honest pen. With care to be pure and simple. SO many of John's songs through the last decade have been written about social events or honorable causes. Love that! It's very clear to my ears that John adores 70s folk. Think early Elton John. Billy Joel. Don McLean.

When the One2One Network sent a copy of Slice to Mrs. Blonde, I was excited to review it. (Oh, btw, FTC, we got our copy for free. In response, I'm writing this review. I don't have a receipt either.) Here's the deal. It's classic Five for Fighting. But, not nearly as jolting as the earlier works. Track #1 Slices is a nice start. The first single Chances is good. John got help from Gregg Wattenberg writting both of those. Above the Timberline might be my favorite on the album. Makes me want to pack up my boys and take a long weekend in the Colorado mountains. But songs like Tuesday I just skip over every time. Reminds me of the Facts of Life theme song. And, unless you were into Blaire, it doesn't work for you either. The flow isn't there for me. The last song on the digital release, Nowhere Bar, seems to have some nice qualities about it. But, iTunes has it held hostage and it wasn't included on my copy of the album.

Let's take a tangent because I want to tell you about a very cool project John started. It's called whatkindofWORLDdoyouwant.com. The first video community that gives back!

We are all connected to one another through our actions. Each person has the ability to make a difference. This is one of the messages of the Five For Fighting video "World." Tell the world what kind of world you want and raise money for charity by making and uploading a video of yourself, your friends or your family--whomever and whatever--answering the question, "What Kind Of World Do You Want?" Or, you can raise money for charities that John Ondrasik of Five For Fighting has personally selected. Watch any clip on this site and money will go to the charity listed with that video. Please see below for the updated list of charities and contributions per views.

Yep, that's what I was thinking. I give that an A+!

Go on and check out Slice. It's worth your time. I'm give it a B. The album plays nicely as an entire piece, but you're not doing yourself a giant diservice by grabbing the highlights from your favorite digital download site either.

While I'm generally a fan of purchasing albums at local music stores, if you want the full release it looks like you need to head over to iTunes.

For more on Five for Fighting check out the artist's wiki definition, visit the website, YouTube page and/or Twitter account.

Disney Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Diamond Edition Review

2009-11-10T08:56:00.005-05:00

Disney's Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was released on October 6, 2009 for the first time in high-definition Blu-ray format. Disney has introduced the limited edition Diamond Combo Pack that includes that includes 2 Blu-Ray discs and 1 DVD.

We do not have a Blu-Ray player, but my parents do and I will be sure to view it on their player over the holidays. Even without the Blu-Ray player the movie was incredible. It brought back so many memories while watching it again as an adult. A true classic! Snow White was such a princess and I remember wanting to be Snow White as a little girl. The color and crisp sound has truly been brought into today's technology. Not bad for a film that was first made by Walt Disney in 1937!

There are many bonus features...

* An all new music viedo (it is great!)
* High Defintion 7.1 sound
* Disneyview- expanded viewing experience
* Backstage Disney
* Karoke singing and so much more!

Do not forget to add this to your gift list or pick one up for the family. You will not be disappointed.

Thanks to One 2 One Network I was luck enough to receive my very own Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Diamond Collection in exchange of writing a review. Thank you for the opportunity!

Less Naughty. More Nice. organic Sleepy Wrap (giveaway)

2009-11-09T20:53:00.011-05:00

{Less Naughty. More Nice. is a way for me to promote amazing products with reviews and giveaways! I am sharing ethically produced products in advance of the Christmas buying season. I have a heart for fair trade, eco-friendly and U.S. made companies. It will continue through November 11th. I am receiving no financial compensation for these promotions. However, I have received sample product in order to supply you an authentic and honest review.}

Oh Sleepy Wrap! How I count thee ways! I wrote about my first Sleepy Wrap almost a year ago when Boatboy was born. I wrapped him daily. HE LOVED IT! And so did I. I wore him to the zoo, on walks and just around the house. He truly allowed me to be hands free to still play with my 3 year old, LA.

One of my absolute favorite things about the Sleepy Wrap is how stretchy the fabric is. It is not so tight that my beautiful love handles seep over the wrap and it is not so loose that my son is going to fall out. It is truly comfy. I've tried several. And, it's my favorite!

It's sad that Boatboy is outgrowing his Sleepy Wrap, but there will be another baby/babies to fill my wrap again. Someday. Just not today. And, no, I'm not making an announcement anytime soon.

I am excited to share with you their new organic Sleepy Wrap. They come in two colors. Natural and Khaki. The new organic wrap is made with organic exchange 100% certified organic cotton. How exciting that Sleepy Wrap is making steps to go greener.

This would make an incredible Christmas gift for you or someone expecting! Be sure to check out their new Boba carrier for 1-4 year olds too. I haven't tried it, but I bet it's great!

Buy an Organic Sleepy Wrap: Natural or khaki for $59.95

Win an Organic Sleepy Wrap: Sleepy Wrap is giving one Blondes, Poop & Mascara reader an Organic Sleepy Wrap. Please leave me a comment letting me know how this wrap will help you.

Extra Entries:
1. Follow my blog publicly through Google's easy reader tool.
2. Subscribe to my blog via email (and except the confirmation email).
3. Follow me on twitter... mrsblonde1
4. Tweet about this giveaway like so "@mrsblonde1 is giving away an organic baby carrier by #SleepyWrap as part of #LessNaughtyMoreNice Enter here http://tinyurl.com/ybvbbjx"
5. Grab my button and post it to your cyber space.
6. Grab my Less Naughty. More Nice. button and post it to your cyber space.
7. Blog about this contest and leave the link in your comment

Thanks for entering. I will select a winner November 16, 2009.

Less Naughty. More Nice. Oh Play teething bracelet review

2009-11-06T08:39:00.009-05:00

Less Naughty. More Nice. personalized handmade baby blanket

2009-11-03T09:55:00.009-05:00

Monster vs Dragon

2009-11-01T10:06:00.001-05:00

We will dance...

...we will hug.

And, we will rule your world!

Happy Halloween ( circa 2006)

2009-10-31T10:39:00.004-04:00

Back in the day we used to dress up the dog. As priorities mature, now Chloe just gets locked away at home while we dress up the boys. And, eat candy...on a day that is traditionally about celebrating the dark forces. What a strange weekend. Have a good one. Happy Halloween!