Thankful Thursday

Happy Thankful Thursday!!  I don't know about your neck of the woods but on this end the weather has been absolutely dreadful.  I'm talking rain, thunderstorms, lots of wind and cold temperatures.  I'm starting to wonder if Mother Nature has her seasons mixed up or something.  Nevertheless, I still have a lot to be thankful for.

For example, I got interviewed by a contributor from JET Magazine.  They're running a piece on African American mom bloggers for May since next month we'll be celebrating Mother's Day.  I was thrilled to say the least.  It's not everyday that people contact me about being interviewed, especially by such a nationally known publication.  And like I mentioned on Facebook, whether the piece makes it in the magazine or not, the whole experience was humbling and just further proof that I'm reaching someone through YUMMommy.

I don't if many of you remember the case of missing Monroe, NC teen Phylicia Barnes, but the police were finally able to make an arrest.  They've arrested her sister's ex-boyfriend in connection with her murder as well as some child pornography.  This is bittersweet for the Barnes family I'm sure because her sister had dated the guy for like ten years.  And to find out that he was involved in your sister's murder is devastating. 

I can totally understand why the Bible says for us to not put our trust in man.  You can never truly know a person or what they are capable of.  Anyways, now that an arrest has been made, I hope that justice will get served and the Barnes family can have closure.  A lot of people were talking about how this case should have gotten the media publicity that the Trayvon Martin is getting, but I think I kind of disagree.  I think that because of the low key approach police were able to monitor the suspect without him knowing pretty much.

If he would have had more pressure on him, he could have fled or destroyed the evidence that led to his arrest in the first place.  And besides here in the Carolinas it did continue to get media coverage.  Phylicia was never far from our minds.

Moving on to even better news, I'm thankful that my little brother will soon be a college graduate!  He's worked so hard and stayed so focus.  I can't begin to tell him how proud I am.  He's overcome some tremendous obstacles that would have made other students in his position throw in the towel.  I am very inspired by him to hurry up and get back on that college journey and get my four year degree.

I'm pretty sure I'll be singing a different tune this fall when I start back.  I'm praying that I don't cave under the demands of being a mom, wife, student and writer.  I know that furthering my education will open up more doors for me and my family and the YUMMommy family. 

What's going on in your life that you are thankful for?

Securing Home

Well, by the end of summer we'll be in a new place.  While I'm thrilled to end, a part of me is slightly dreading the move.  You see I absolutely love the neighborhood we're in.  It's quiet, quaint and more importantly it's safe.  We all kind of silently look out for each other.  

 As we narrow down our decision, all I think about is the safety of my family.  We do live in a major city.  And like most major cities we do see our share of crime.    So, I've been thinking about checking out a Home Security Systems review or two or three.

I've already talked it over with the Mr and he's on board that we'll definitely be investing in a security system of some sort when we're settled into our new place.  I wish times were different and that people weren't evil minded.  However, the reality of the situation is that times aren't different, there are people out there looking for trouble to get into and I'm determined to make sure my family doesn't get caught unprepared!

Let's hope I don't have a moment of mommy brain and forget the security code one day.  That would be just  awful and slightly embarrassing.  Not to mention, it could be costly money-wise because some companies charge for false alarms caused by the home owner.

Do you have a home security system?  Thinking about getting one?

Disclaimer:  This post is sponsored by our friends at http://www.homesecurityfamily.com.

Do You Polka

Pop Singer/Actress Rihanna in Polka Dot D&G  Jumpsuit

Polka dots are back in ladies! This spring trend is definitely taking off. It's hard to go anywhere without spotting this trend. Polka dots can be playful and whimsical as well elegant and chic. Have you thought about trying this trend, but don't know how? Well, here are simple ways to add polka dots to your life.

Jewelry

Not quite sure if the polka dot trend is for you? No worries. One of the easiest and most disaster proof way to rock this trend is by accessorizing your outfit with polka dot jewelry. By opting for a jewelry a form you can better control how much or little polka dot you want people to see.

Layering a nice polka dot bracelet, necklace, ring and/or earrings is a great way to spice up solid colors. You also use polka dot jewelry to draw attention to your best features. For example, if you nice hands a polka dot with a little simmer or bling is sure to catch someone's eye.

Shoes

Now ladies, we all know that nothing can make or break an outfit quite like shoes. Many of us can't even put together an outfit without knowing what shoes we're wearing first. Not to mention, in these times a killer shoe game is a must-have! And adding polka dot shoes can be just what the style doctor ordered to take your game to the next level.

Light colored polka dot shoes work best with dark colors like blacks and navies. This way the eye is actually drawn downward to the feet. Pairing a dark colored polka dot with a dark colored bottom or dress is almost same as just wearing plan black shoes or no shoes at all. Nobody will notice them. And we all know that we shop for shoes to be noticed!

Pop on over to HubPages for more ways to incorporate this trend into your wardrobe!

I Heart Stuart

I have a confession to make everyone.  I'm in love.  With another man!

It all started about four years ago.  I was flipping through a copy of Bride's magazine.  There they were...the most gorgeous white pumps I had ever seen!  They were elegant, sleek and had just the right amount of bling.

Who would have known that that would be I start my love affair with Stuart.  Stuart Weitzman that is.  And now I can't go into a single store that sells shoes without admiring their Stuart Weitzman selection.  

It's such a rush.  I get butterflies and giddy.  It's at that moment that the tom boy in me takes a back seat and the girly girl me takes center stage.`

Pumps

Sandals & Wedges

Aren't these just divine?  Do you heart Stuart too?

A Touch of Elegance

It's no secret that I'm a newly acquired JGOOD fan. I don't just love jewelry, but quality jewelry. (There's a difference.)  And when it comes to fashion jewelry, JGOOD is one of the best in the business when it comes to quality!  After all you don't get Kenneth Jay Lane to work with you if you're not.

Anyways, now that I'm investing in myself more, I want to add a little more elegance and glam to my look.  What better way to get a touch of elegance than with JGOOD's Crystalline Elegance collection.  I've already got my eye on the following pieces:

Teardrop CZ Full Circle Band

Two Tone CZ Drop Earring

Two Tone CZ Drop Pendent 

Diagonal Crystal Miligrain Bangle

CZ Disk Earring

CZ Disk Pendent Necklace

Graduated CZ Ring

Pretty elegant huh?!  Even more elegant is the fact that JGOOD is offering YUMMommy readers 30% off their entire purchase for the whole month of April using promo code APRIL30.  So, head on over and get a little in your life!

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by JGOOD.

Thankful Thursday

This week I am thankful a renewed sense of motivation.  As of late, I was feeling like I was stuck in a rut.  It seemed like everywhere I turned there were constant reminders of things I hadn't done or have yet to accomplish.  So, I did what I always do-prayed.

And I feel so much better.  I've brushed off the dust and my eye is refocused on the prize.  I'm thankful also that earlier this week my husband admitted that he noticed I've been in less than stellar moods for the past few weeks and he took the time to tell me how much he appreciates everything I do around the house and with our two kids.  All I can say is that it felt good to hear that I was appreciated because there are times when I don't feel like anybody cares.

I'm thankful that my husband works hard and has been so supportive of my writing career.  With these economic times, I'm pretty sure a lot of people would be giving their spouse the side eye if they decided to forgo a more steady job to pursue a writing career full-time.  Instead my husband pushes me to take my skills to the next level.  He silently stalks my blog and reads my posts.

I'm thankful for my loyal readers and commentators who faithfully visit YUMMommy here at the blog, Facebook and Twitter.  It's hard baring your soul so to speak in such a public form.  However, all of the uplifting words and support makes it easier and worth it.  I know that my story is touching someone and that's always been my main purpose for starting this blog. 

What little moments of thankfulness stand out for you this week?

A Fight Worth Voting For

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of The Walmart Foundation. All opinions are 100% mine.

Did you know that there are over 50 million Americans have no clue where their next meal will come from?  That means that some mom woke up this morning and had no idea where she was going to get milk and cereal for her children to have breakfast.  And tonight a husband will feel less like a provider because he too won't know how his family is going to have dinner.  I'm sure that many of you know first hand the harmful effects  of unemployment can have on households.  I have personally been where some of these 50 million Americans are. 

Due to unemployment many food banks usually see  a decrease in food and charitable donations.  Likewise, unemployment has caused more families to seek out help from these  food banks.  Thankfully, Walmart and Feeding America have teamed up with ConAgra, General Mills, Kraft and Kellogg's to help with this food shortage.

Fighting Hunger Together is national initiative in which customers can lend a helping hand to fight hunger.  From April 9th until April 30th, fans of the Walmart  Facebook page can vote for their favorite out of 200 communities with the highest unemployment rates to win a $1 million grand prize towards ending hunger for that town or city.  In addition, 20 runner-up communities will receive $50,000.  So, in all Walmart will be donating $2 million to help feed families around the United States.  Winners will be announced May 1st.

Don't have a Facebook page?  No worries because select products from Kellogg's, General Mills, Kraft and ConAgra will available for purchase.  And for each of those select products purchased meals will be donated to Feeding America or Action for Healthy Kids, a nonprofit fighting childhood hunger.  So, keep your eyes peeled for these specially marked food products and in-store signage on your next grocery shopping trip at Walmart.

I for one will be voting online for the Queen City (Charlotte) of course and purchasing specially marked products. Like I mentioned earlier, I am very motivated to support this cause because it hits close to home for me.  And I encourage all of you to go out and  Vote to fight spring hunger with Walmart.  Ending hunger for those in need is a fight worth voting for.  Dont forget to spread the word too!

Happy Easter

While we're out enjoying egg hunts, spiral ham and this fresh spring weather, let us not forget the real reason behind all of our celebration.  Don't forget to send up your thanks to the Big Man for allowing his only son to die on the cross for our sins.

Source

Investing In Me

"If don't invest in myself, who will?"

This is the question that I asked myself at the end of 2011.  Looking back on the last few years, I saw that I'd become so invested in my loved ones that I had completely neglected myself.  It was awful yall.  And after I had JJ, I felt like I let myself fall further into a slump.  Nobody would believe that I was trying to build a brand.

So, I decided that 2012 would be a year of self investment and empowerment.  I needed to find that young woman who always took pride in herself again.  I mean before I had kids and became a stay at home mom, I was all about staying fit, making sure I had nice clothes and keeping a beauty routine.  Then somehow I let it all go.  I know that we like to think looks don't matter but when you're putting yourself out there in the public looking presentable is everything.

And I have to say that I'm really happy with the progress I've been making.  Even though, my two weeks down at my mom's set me back a little in terms of my weight loss, I'm getting back that horse.  I've started back with trying to get my one gallon of water in a day.  I'm back to cooking healthy meals for me and the family.

On a the fashion side of things, I hit the thrifting jack pot and scored some cute new designer goods.  I'll be posting about that later.  I'm also taking the time to invest in some really lingerie.  You would be amazed at what a difference a nice pair of bra and panties can make.  Not only does it make the body look good but knowing that underneath your clothes is something cute adds a little pep in your step and has motivated me to get even more in shape.  PS-EdenFantasys has some great lingerie options!

I've stopped letting my fragrance collection collect dust and started taking the time to put on a new scent each morning.  I will you all know that the Mr barely noticed my new hair cut, but he notices when I'm wearing a different perfume!  And my mom was shocked when she noticed I was wearing perfume too because it was something I had basically quit doing.  She kept asking me was something up. 

And speaking of beauty, I recently invested in some new skincare products.  As of late, my skin has been getting super dry.  I blame my second pregnancy and this birth control.  I'm learning that there are pretty amazing body moisturizers out there.  I'll be posting on that later too. 

All in all, I'm very proud of myself for realizing the value of my own stock.  Taking the time to invest in treating myself is something that I have no plans of quitting.  If can spend money on my kids, my husband and other things then why not spend money on things and in areas that will help me improve myself?!

How do you invest in yourself?

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by EdenFantasys.com.  All opinions expressed are 100% my own!

Thankful Thursday

It's been a while since I've done a Thankful Thursday post and I feel like this is something I should start back doing.  I can certainly say that I felt a lot better when I was taking the time to count my blessings as well as write them out.  I don't know just something about seeing everything that I have to be thankful for that humbles me and helps me keep life in perspective.

So, this week I'm thankful for the opportunity I got to spend with my family last months.  It was absolutely refreshing to be surrounded by family.  We had some good laughs.  And oh how I missed the food.  My hometown has the best little mom and pop restaurants.  Shout out to the Greens over College Inn.  They hands down have the best ribs ever!!!

I'm also thankful that we found out what my bestie is having.  It's a girl!!  I couldn't be more thrilled because now we both have one of each.  She's like a sister to me and I miss her dearly.  However, I'm looking forward to visiting her this summer.  

I'm also thankful for this peace the Mr and I seem to have found in our relationship.  We've had our ups and downs but ever since we celebrated our seventh year of being together our bond has gotten stronger.  We don't argue nearly as much.  It's almost like we're in a mild honeymoon phase.  So far year 8 is looking great!

What are you thankful for this week?

Ten Months Grown

It's hard to believe that a little over ten months ago I gave birth to the most handsome little baby boy.  I know it sounds so cliche, but time has gone by entirely too fast for me.   Somehow, I blinked and my baby turned into a little man right before my eyes.  I've been getting all teary eyed just thinking about how much he's changed and grown on me.

For starters, he has two pearly whites that he doesn't mind using to chomp down on food or your arm.  Whichever is closest is what he'll settle for.  And trust me those things are sharp.  He bit his finger yesterday by mistake trying to bite on a toy.  He went into the worst crying fit.  Needless to say, I don't think he'll be making that mistake twice.

Poor Moo has been getting pinched and bitten.  Still she's a trooper and will ride or die for her little brother. Seriously, she's super protective of him even around other family members.  I think it's so cute that they're still best friends.  I pray that they continue to be close as they get older.

Fun times shopping with GMa!

He's becoming a Grandma's boy now!  That's a huge step because for the last 7 months he was not a fan of Grandma.  Don't ask me why, he just wasn't feeling her.  So, my mom is very excited that they got to bond when were visiting last month.  I'm happy too because soon he'll be able to go for day trips with Grandma since we're almost done breastfeeding.  

Yes, I'm still breastfeeding, but he seems to be self weaning.  He'll breastfeed long periods at night and then snack during the day.  I'm keeping my finger crossed that we make it to the one year mark which is less than two months away.  I did let him sample a little soy milk and he loved it.

Oh, he's officially started boycotting the walker.  In his mind, he thinks that he's a big boy and can walk on his own.  We really have to keep a watchful eye on him because he'll slide over the edge of the bed, couch, your lap, etc.  He can even flip himself out of his bouncy seat, walker and crib.  My baby has like major upper body strength yall.

It freaked the Mr out this weekend when he saw JJ flip himself out of his seat.  Thankfully, I never put him in it unless I'm sitting next to him.  So, we've avoided any accidents thus far.  That instant reflex comes in handy  I tell you.  So, if anybody out there has any suggestions for a toddler chair please leave it  in the comments.

We're making progress on the sippy cup front.  He prefers to drink from everybody's cup except his own.  So, I'm working on getting him used to drinking out his own sippy cup but he's not having it.  I'm not going to complain though.   I just want to enjoy these last seven weeks of his babyhood.