Year of the AstroBrights

This post brought to you by Astrobrights Papers by Neenah Paper. All opinions are 100% mine.

With summer vacation coming to close for many of us (kids & adults), it's time to focus on the next 9 months ahead.  For our children that means going back to school.  For us grown ups that means getting back to business with business.   As this 2012-2013 year jumps off, I want to urge you all to make this the year of the AstroBrights!

I was first introduced to AstroBrights papers about two years ago.  I was in my mom's office and just so happened to be looking for some nice paper to print a flyer on.  There on her desk was a shiny, new, unopened pack of AstroBrights. (True story!)  It was calling my name.  I answered and have been hooked ever since.

So, what makes AstroBrights different from other brands?  I would say quality.  This stuff is top of the line.  I have had inicidents where I've printed a report with a pie chart or table graph only to discover that ink has bled through and the paper is all wrinkled and wet.  None of that with this brand.

Did I mention AstroBrights comes in 23 colors?  23 bright, bold, vivid colors to be exact. I'm talking about hot pink, neon grean, deep blues, warm yellows and more.  Whether your son/daughter is looking to decorate his/her science project display or you want spruce up some business brochures, AstroBrights has got you covered!  They "believe ideas are important, thoughts aren't shy and we are not afraid to stand out from the crowd."

You can make sure that your kids are covered and stand out from the crowd by entering the "Give a Bright Year" sweepstakes.  You can help your child's (or any) elementary school win $30,000 in school supplies and cash prizes.  It's really simple to enter.

1. Visit and 'Like' AstroBrights on Facebook.
2. Click on the "Sweepstakes" tab.
3. Click on the "Go to App" button and fill out the entry form.

Looking for even more AstroBrights goodness?  Join their family-friendly "Make Something AstroBright" design challenges.  I encourage you all to put down the cell phones, computers and remotes and get the family together for some crafting and bonding time.  You can share your projects through pictures and videos for a chance to win AstroBright paper and other cool prizes.   Don't forget to use the hashtag #GoAstroBrights if you decide to share them via Twitter or Pinterest.  Happy crafting!

How does your family prepare for going back to school/work?

Soul Food Sundays

It's no secret that I love to cook.  And while I'm pretty sure that I got that love from watching my father cook during my earlier childhood years, Sunday was the day that my mom would throw down.  She didn't cook a lot but when she did, it was off the chain yall!  We would come home from church and she would have us call around to her sisters to see what everybody cooked and we would decide who's house to meet at.  Thus, a tradition of Sunday dinners was started.

I have some really great memories from those dinners that I will always cherish.  I can remember laughing with my cousins, climbing trees in my aunt's front yard and eating till it hurt.  Most importantly, I remember hanging out with my mom in the kitchen and appreciating the ease of conversation between us.  It was in those moments that we were able to be our most vulnerable.   And it's for these very reasons that I agreed to link up with Dyani from The Soul Mom for Soul Food Sundays.

I want to make similar memories with my children and have an activity that allows us to bond more.  Also, with my siblings and I all living in different states or town it's hard to get together for Sunday dinners as one unit.  Somebody's working, already made plans or has a project for school due.  So, I'm building this tradition with my own family in hopes that they will keep it live with their future families.

Anyways, we love it if you'd join along with us for Soul Food Sundays too.  Below is a calendar of what soul food dish we'll be linking up each week.  This is not only a great way and excuse to get back in the kitchen but a great way to share recipes and start new friendships.  After all food tends to bring people together if nothing else.

RECIPE CALENDAR

Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipes - August 5, 2012

Potato Salad - August 12, 2012

Greens (collard, mustard, turnip, etc.) Recipes- August 19, 2012

Red Velvet Cake Recipes - August 26, 2012

Pound Cake (includes 7-up cakes) Recipes - September 2

Baked or Fried Chicken Recipes - September 9

Pecan Pie Recipes - September 16

Baked or Fried Fish Recipes - September 23

Black Eyed Peas Recipes - September 30

Banana Pudding Recipes - October 7

Sweet Potatoes/Yams Recipes - October 14

Sweet Potato Pie Recipes - October 21

Peach Cobbler Recipes - October 28

Dressing - November 4

Red Beans and Rice Recipes - November 11

German Chocolate Cake Recipes - November 18

Does your family host Sunday dinners?  What are your favorite dishes?

Thankful Thursday

This week has been one filled with blessings!  I'm thankful for that alone.  First, I'm thankful for our new lwad pastor that we have at church.  So far so good.  I'm also thankful for the message that was brought forth last Sunday about whether or not we're really ready to lay it all on the line for Jesus (or whatever your faith maybe).  I've enjoyed every message I've heard our new church but this one moved me to tears.

It reminded me that instead of saying why me, I need to focus more on holding on and using my faith in a way that helps others.  I have to walk the walk at all times.  Often times, our prayers are answered when we least expect them.  It just requires a little patience.

Which brings me to another thing I'm thankful for this week.  Not going to lie having two young children, a husband that can be trying at times and trying to figure out what I want from my life at this stage leaves me with little to no patience.  However, I've been praying really hard for patience and actually making an effort to be patient.  Well, I've noticed that my moments of impatience has been less and that makes me and my family happy.  

I've taken the time to read extra books, play games and dance around with Moo and JJ.  Low and behold I had been dragging around here pouting about not being able to go to BlogHer12 because I was originally scheduled to go out of town during that same time.  Then that trip fell through at the last minute and with just a week left I haven't found any sponsorship.  But once again God showed me that if I just be patient, He'll open the Doors of Opportunity.

Still not going to BlogHer12 but I am going to lovely blog conference next month! (More on that later).  Which reminds me that I want to give a huge thanks to Alicia over at Mommy Delicious!  She's the main reason I have the chance to attend this upcoming event. She's such a godsend, a friend and has been a huge supporter of YUMMommy for over two years now.

I'm thankful that I'm getting to know more you out there.  As the weeks go by I'm seeing more new faces in the comments, posting on the Facebook page and saying hi on Twitter.  You guys are awesome!  Keep the comments, tweets and convos flowing.

What's at the top of your thankful list?

Romance Wednesday: Getting Pampered

Sometimes the stress and pressures of being a mommy to two busy bees, a wife, brand builder and all the other hats I wear takes a toll on me.  It's hard to feel romantic and sexy when I'm running off of five hours of sleep or less.  I'm not even really talking about being sexy and romantic for my husband, but just being able to feel that way about myself personally.

I'm firm believer in the logic that before I can expect someone else to feel or think a certain way about me, I need to feel that same way about myself first.  It's all the energy I give off.  And I need that energy to be real and natural not fake or forced.  This is why I enjoy indulging in the simple pleasures of life when I feel like my self morale is going down.

I don't know about you but I need that 'pick me up' from time to time.  Lately, my favorite morale booster has been pampering myself.  I take great pride in my skincare and love trying out new products.  As a fan of EdenFantasys for over a year now, I've discovered that they have some really great bath and skincare products.  Most recently I decided to try out a few items from their Dona by Jo Collection.

Let me just say that if you enjoy products with mostly 0r 100% all natural ingredients, then this is the collection for you.  Anyways, here are some of the goodies I ordered:

Dona Body Polish (Mangosteen)

I like the term body polish as opposed to body scrub.  Sounds more luxurious and spa like.  The combination of sea salt, natural oils mixed with shaved chunks of passion and mangosteen fruit exfoliates the skin without making it feel like I'm being rubbed raw.  And the smell is so exotic! I love it!  The oils also work to make sure your skin isn't drying out from the combination of the exfoliation and the water.

Dona Body Wash (Pomegranate)

Best lathering body wash I've ever used!  Trust me bar soap has nothing on this.  One pump goes a long way. Again the smell is heavenly and soothing.  Another thing I like about this body wash is that in addition to natural ingredients like pomegranate, green tea and goji, it also has benzyl alcohol.  Benzyl alcohol is often used products to help fight acne.  So, you're not only giving your body wrinkle fighting antioxidants but helping to get rid of and potentially prevent body pimples in the process!

Dona Shave Gel (Acai)

Due to my sensitivity to shaving I've tried a lot of shaving creams and gels.  This makes my top 3 list! I have shaved twice with this stuff since I got it and no irritation or anything. No lie (in my Drake voice).  And it doesn't leave you with that immediate dry and tight skin feeling that shaving can give you.

Dona Massage Oil (Acai)

This is the last product I put on.  My skin is very dry so traditional lotions don't work for me. I have to use oil or petroleum based products to make sure my skin stays hydrated and I don't end up spots of ashy skin before noon.  The massage oil works really and so far the only places I've had to touch up during the day have been my legs and my feet if I'm wearing sandals the rub a lot.  And not to sound like a broken record, the smell is nice.

Overall, I'm very happy that I took a chance and ordered these products as a gift to myself.  It's not often that I spend money on myself.  You know that mommy/wife guilt kicks in sometimes.  Thankfully, I was able to push it to the back of my mind.  When emerge from my spa (ok bathroom), I feel do feel refreshed, sexy and more romantic about myself.

So, to all you other moms, wives, girlfriends and even single ladies, take the time to pamper yourself for you!   Guilt be damned, we're worth it!

Do you pamper yourself?  What are some of your favorite products to use?

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post.  I sincerely enjoy trying out products from EdenFantasys!

Nurturing My Kids With NurturMe

When it comes to feeding Moo and JJ, I want to make sure that I'm feeding them the best.  And by the best, I mean foods that are rich in nutrients to help make their little bodies strong.  We stay away from foods that have added preservatives, sugars and salts.  Yes, we're Team Organic.  Most importantly I make sure that the foods I serve them are gluten free due their food allergies.

How cute this little pouch?

It's for those exact reasons that I was first drawn to try out NurturMe.  NurturMe offers organic dried vegetables and fruits that come individual packets.  There are no specific measurements.  I simply open a pouch pour what I think JJ will eat into a bowl and add some breast milk until it's the right constancy for him.  Since, we're working on him feeding himself, I usually go for a chunky texture.

The food packets

 Another beautiful thing about these food packets from NurturMe is that they're not just for infants but can be used for children up to 4 years old!  For example, I can add a pouch or two of the Hearty Sweet Potato Pancakes to my morning pancake batter. Just like that Moo goes from having plain old buttermilk pancakes to sweet potato pancakes rich Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium and Iron! 

Toddler Meal Recipes

We're also big smoothie fans, so I can throw all our ingredients in the blender as usual then add a pouch of the fruit to help make our smoothies even more nutritious.  Yea, I'm not afraid to say that I've tried NurturMe!  I wouldn't feed it to my kids if I didn't trust it to be good enough for me to try.  Besides, I can't just let a whole blender of smoothie go to waste.

The meal options are endless when it comes to NurturMe. (You can check out their website for recipes here.)  I mean this is simply genius!!  And you can try NurturMe for yourself using this awesome deal from Plum District:

NutureMe Two 18-Count Variety Packs of Organic Baby & Toddler Food, Plus One Surprise 8-Pack 7/24/12 - 7/30/12

You won't be disappointed.  Our kids eat enough foods that aren't healthy for them when they're school, cookouts, etc. So, why not try something that's going to help make up for those missed nutrients?  And mom's who have trouble finding gluten free products, I definitely recommend that you snag this deal.  It will make meal planning and cooking so much easier.

How do you make sure your kids are getting their proper nutrients?




Disclaimer: I received these products to review.  However, all opinions expressed are my own.

For The Sins Of A Few

For the sins of a few it seems like the majority and innocent will have to suffer in the wake of the NCAA's punishment against Penn State for the Sandusky child sex abuse scandal that took the nation by storm.  If you haven't heard, the NCAA has fined the school $60 Million.  I'm hoping most of this money will go to the victims.  The school has been forfeited its last 14 seasons of their football victories since the late Paterno was involved and helped to cover up Sandusky's crime. The school has also been banned from bowl games for the next four years and will be docked 20 scholarships per year for the next four years.

Coming from a family of high school, college and NFL players, I'm not wholeheartedly in agreement with the last three punishments.  I've never been one to believe in the majority being punished for the crimes of a few. Likewise, I don't buy into the phrase the one bad apple spoils the bunch.  My line of thinking is that you get rid of the bad apples and keep the good ones.  In my opinion, I think these last three punishments aren't hurting the people who were directly involved but the football players and student body.

I know for a fact that if it wasn't for athletic scholarships many of my family members wouldn't have been able to afford college.  I understand that Penn State and the NCAA are attempting to wash and cleanse themselves of anything associated with Sandusky's crime and Paterno guilt by silence but it still sucks to see that so many innocent people have been dragged into this.  Why can't people just be good?

This is why we have to think before we act people.  Your bad decisions and crimes don't just affect you but those around you as well as the victims.  We were all put on this Earth for a purpose.  Why not make that purpose a positive one?  Strive to bring joy, compassion and love into each other's lives.  I'm praying for our world becomes a better place because too many of us innocent folk are getting caught in the crossfires of the wicked!

Do you think the majority should suffer for the crimes of a few?  And do a few bad apples really spoil the bunch?

What A World

Oh what a world we live in folks!  Seriously, why is world peace so hard to achieve?  Why do so many people feel the need to cause harm to others?  These are the questions running through my mind after hearing about the horrible theater shooting that took place at The Dark Knight Rises opening in Aurora, Colorado. 

Due to the senseless act of violence carried out by 24 year old James Holmes, 12 people will never return home to their families alive.  Some one has a lost a wife, a husband, a son , a daughter, a mother, a father and a friend.  38 more people were injured after being caught in the crossfire of Holmes bullet spray.  As a mother one of the worst parts of what happened is that one of the victims injured in this whole ordeal was a 3 month old baby!!

I fought back tears hearing that.  I'm not an easy crier but when it comes to situations like these and I hear children have been hurt it tugs heavily at my heart strings.  How could so one so young be so evil and heartless?  This couldn't have been an overnight transformation.  You just don't wake up and go open fire on a movie theater full of innocent people--strangers.

While my heart goes out to the victims, a part of me is sad for the shooter as well.  I feel sad that he felt so inclined to do something so horrible.  I wonder what his reason behind shooting all those people were?  Was he not loved?  Did he have an abusive childhood?  Was he bullied?  Is this a mental breakdown?

I've always been a believer that people like Holmes give off warning signs before they just go over the edge. However, their family and friends ignore it or down play it as nothing serious.  But what if they would have cared more and tried to address those signs?  Would this have changed his actions?  And does the government need to make it harder for people to obtain guns?

I'm definitely thanking God a lot more for my family and hugging my kids extra tight.  I've always been a prayerful person-a prayer warrior as my mom calls me.  And I urge you all to do same.  As you go about your day, send up a prayer for the residents of Aurora, the victims and their families, the shooter and his family and our world in general.  We have to try to make this world a better place not just for ourselves but our kids and so that their families can a future.

Let's make an effort to reach out to someone who is going through.  You never know if your words or kindness could be the difference between them rediscovering hope or going over the edge.  So, I just want to that each and everyone of you mean a lot to me.  Without your support and kindness YUMMommy wouldn't be where it is today. I thank those of you who have gone the extra mile to bond with me beyond the blog.  It means a lot.

Did you hear about theater shooting in Aurora?  What are your thoughts? Do we need stricter gun laws?

Thankful Thursday

This week started off a little drab.  Not because anything bad happened.  It was just rainy and gloomy.  However, I am thankful for the cooler temperatures.  We haven't had to run the AC nearly as much as we were.  And I'm thankful for the rain because a lot of the stores around here buy from local farmers.  So, they definitely need that rain to provide great produce.

I'm thankful that JJ is getting closer to walking on his own.  At first, I was sad and a little panicked that he wasn't walking by himself yet.  It seems like everyone I knew who had a kid his age was talking about how their child had started walking at 10 to 12 months.  And we are at month 14 and he's still either holding on to my hand or the furniture to get around.  But then I remembered that each child is different.  I'm sure there's another mom out there in my same situation.

I'm thankful that I was able to attend Tara's very first webnar!  She's been such a great friend and wealth of information.  It's always nice and refreshing to meet and connect with other women who are sincere and genuine.  I'm really proud of all her success!  If you missed her webnar check out the recap here.  I also shared my top 7 key points that I took way from it here.

I'm thankful for my feature with City Unwrapped.  I'm truly amazed that people and media are reaching out to me for interviews.  I'm learning not to ask why me because YUMMommy has come a long way.  I'm real and honest with what I write on this blog.  I've talked about so many intimate details of my life. And I know that by sharing those stories I'm helping someone.

Most of all I'm thankful for all the continued support.  This community is growing and I couldn't be more proud.  This week hit and went over the 300 likes mark on Facebook!  So, I will definitely be spending more time over there trying to get to know everyone.  I want to hear your stories and reassure you that you're not alone. 

On that same note, I've decided that once we hit the 300 mark here on YUMMommy, I'm going to host a huge giveaway that will include some bath/spa products and a year long magazine subscription.  I'm trying to do at three winners total.  I know that I've told you all how thankful and appreciative I am of your support and presence but I realize that sometimes you have to show that.  So, that's the giveaway is about.

One last thing...I'm thankful for all the new faces I'm seeing in the comments!  Keep the comments coming.  I'm working hard to make sure that I reply to them all so be sure to check back for my responses.

What are you thankful for today?

My City Unwrapped Blogger Interview

A few months ago, I had the pleasure of connecting with the wonderfully Katie from Katie Talks Carolina.  We're both Queen City bloggers and family oriented.  You can often catch us frequently commenting on each other's blogs or giving each other shout outs on Twitter from time to time.  So, when she asked to interview me for an article she was writing on bloggers for City Unwrapped, I immediately said yes.

City Unwrapped is local Charlotte publication (online and in print) that stays true to its slogan and has features "Real views, real people and real city" happenings and news.  Essentially, it's written for the people by the people. And that just makes this publication even more amazing.  I am both honored and humbled to have my blogger interview featured both online and in their August print issue!

This yet another great accomplishment that is pushing me closer to obtaining my goals and helping me build the YUMMommy brand.  Be sure to stop by and check out my interview and leave a comment here!  Who would have know I'd have my second magazine feature in less than four months?  I am definitely feeling blessed and thankful right now!

Growing Like A Weed

Source

Yesterday, JJ turned 14 months and Moo is almost to her 4th birthday!  My oh my where has the time gone?  My little babies (toddlers) are growing like weeds right before my very eyes.  I thought having two kids would make things slow down a bit.  It hasn't.  If anything, it's made the time go by faster.  Thank goodness for pictures!

So, what have my two weeds been up to?  Well, JJ is getting closer to walking unassisted or without holding on to things.  He loves to get in the middle of the floor and pull himself into a standing position and balance himself.  He's got the hang out of it so well that he's starting to balance himself in the bed!  That terrifies me because I'm afraid one day he's going to go over the edge.

He's becoming quite the chatter.   His favorite words are "Get It" and "Stop."  He still doesn't say mama much unless someone else is holding him and he wants to me to get him.  No worries though.  Moo does enough mama calling for the both of them! LOL.  Throw It On The Floor seems to be his favorite game these days.

No matter what you give him (or he can get his hands on), he likes to drop on it floor and then say "Get It."  So far, we've had two broken snow globes and cracked remote thanks to his new fave game.  I've also gone through two toothbrushes this month alone.  Climbing in, out of and on things is still another one of his favorite pastimes.   I feel like a human rock wall some days.

He has five pearly whites now with another one coming in on the bottom.  I'll have to snap a picture while he's sleeping and post it later.  Besides hanging out in the kitchen with me, Moo has been getting knee deep in reading and learning this summer.  She checked out 17 books from the library last Saturday.  So far, we've read at least two books everyday.

Her nose bleeds are back!  Not sure why because we've been indoors enjoying the cool air thanks to a combination of rainy weather, heat and the neighbors.  Yes, I said the neighbors.  There's supposed to be a no pet policy but clearly that only applies us because these people have a dog and two outdoor cats.  Well, Moo is allergic to both cats and dogs.

And since the cats have been hanging out on our side of the yard and our porch to avoid Moo picking up germs and getting a breakout we haven't ventured outside much.  I'm also mopping the floors down with Clorox and not wearing shoes much to stop from retracking the germs back onto the clean floors.  This will get a lot easier once my new Hoover TwinTank Steam Mop gets here!  Plus, we're moving soon and that will help a lot.

Moo has taken an interest in money and has much things cost.  I love that she's interested in personal finances at such a young age and will take advantage of this.  She doesn't like watching tv that much. Not complaining about that either.  

And she's pretty much content so long as she can tag along behind me.  She's still head over heels in love with brother.  I'm still breastfeeding JJ but it's most;y just at least and after naptime.  Well, that's a wrap for updates.

What are your kiddies up to?  Are they growing like weeds?

Creating New Memories With Grill Mates

Nothing brings a family together like cooking and food.  And one of our fellow YUMMommies agrees.  Julia recently wrote on our Facebook page saying, "We love to cook!  Seems so simple, but everyone gets a role and we all have a chance to be creative.  It is also a great opportunity to share and talk.  But most importantly we get to create new memories."

I couldn't agree more with what Julia had to say.  A while back I was given the opportunity to become a McCormick Grill Mates Grill Ambassador.  I was beyond excited.  In case you haven't checked out the posts under the Watch Me Sizzle tab let me say I love to cook!  I enjoy being in the kitchen making healthy and yummy meals for my family.

My Goodies From McCormick Grill Mates 

A Closer Shot of my Loot

I was also excited because I grew up using spices by McCormick.  And when I moved in with the Mr, we became a huge fan of the Grill Mates marinades.  I mean we were putting those marinades on everything.  Everyday we tried a different one.  However, the most important reason I was looking forward to this opportunity was to spend time and create memories with Moo.

You see, Moo has uncovered a passion for being in the kitchen and helping me cook.  Every time she sees me headed that way, she's right on my heels asking to help.  Over the past weeks, I've had blast in the kitchen with my daughter trying out these new spices. Our family favorite so far has been the Spiced Brandy and Herb marinade. She even helped when we grilled out!

When we're cooking I can't help but looking over at her in awe.  She's smiling, giggling with the joy of just being able to spend that one on one time with me.  She talks a mile per minute asking me about the food we're making or telling me about her day and what she wants for her birthday and Christmas.  (Yes, she's already thinking about Christmas!)  And I love it!

My heart just swells with so much happiness and pride.  I have to fight back tears because watching her brings back happy memories from my childhood of the times I enjoyed one on one time in the kitchen mostly with my dad.  It's bittersweet because he hasn't been in my life for years now.

However, I still count myself beyond blessed to have those  memories.  I hope that Moo never loses her interest in being in the kitchen with me and I'm excited about JJ being able to help out more when he's older! In meanwhile, Moo and I will be sharing some of our favorite recipes we've created using Grill Mates from time to time.

Do you spend time in the kitchen with your family?


Disclaimer: I was selected to be a Grill Mates Grill Ambassador and received the pictured products above to review.  However, all opinions expressed in this post are 100% my own.

7 Tips To Help You Blog Write Now

No, that's not a typo in my post title.  Last night I attended the What Blogging Can Do For You webnar hosted by the lovely and ever helpful Tara from The Young Mommy Life.  If you weren't one of the 13 lucky attendees, check out the replay here.  Getting back to the title, we used the hashtag #BlogWriteNow as we tweeted about all the great stuff Tara was sharing with us.  But just in case you're not following me on Twitter and you didn't make the webnar, I'm sharing 7 of the tips that I thought were most the most helpful and important below.

1-Exposure is King: Don't be shy or too timid when it comes to self promoting or plugging your blog.  Getting yourself out there is the key to successfully building your brand and attracting readers.  Also, if you're  looking to work with other brands, they want to be sure that you are capable of giving their product or service the proper exposure to their target market and attract new customers.

2-Find Direction: Before you start your blog take the time to think about the direction you want it to go.  What do you want to offer your readers?  Then put out content that follows that specific path.

And if you've already started your blog, ask yourself why and how your blog is different or how you want it to be different from the sea of other blogs out there?  Create content and an overall feel that reflects that answer. Remember, when it comes to blogging being unique and different is a great thing!

3-Own Your Space:  Would you buy food, clothes or even a house from a store or bank that had no name or employees?  No!  Well, readers and brands feel the same way.  The fact of the matter is that if you're trying to turn your blog into a business or brand you need to put your name or identity on it.

Putting your identity on your blog helps readers and brands not only better relate to you but it helps to establish a certain level of trust because they know that you're real.  Nobody wants to buy a product from you if you're afraid to put your name on your own goods. Now, I'm not saying you have to put your full government name and social out there but a nickname or first initial and last name will get you farther.

4-Be Consistent:  Post on a regular and consistent basis instead of taking the "whenever I feel like it" stance.  Sure you have a job, kids and household to run.  However, that's why Blogger and Wordpress have  a function that allows you type out posts and then set a date you want them to post.  So, you can write on your day after you've put the kids to bed and set them to post the same time everyday or every other.  Either way, you're making sure your readers aren't going weeks or months without hearing from you because when you go ghost, your readership will too!

5-Open Your Mouth:  Those of you not familiar Matthews 7:7 it says, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."  Want sponsors?  Need products to review or giveaway?  Secretly desiring to write for a big name magazine or website?  

Well, if you don't open your mouth and initiate contact you won't get anything of those things.  I got one of my first sponsors by sending them an email first to let them know that I wanted to really work with them.  I told them how long I had been using their product and send link to posts I had written about it on Facebook.  Sure you might get rejected but the key is opening that line of communication and being persistent in your search.

6-Have More Than One Hat:  At the end of the day, any successful blogger that you look up to can tell you that to get to their level of success they've done more than just blog to make money.  Try dabbling in selling ad space.  Lend yourself out (for fee) as a freelance writer.  Turn some of your blog posts and learned lessons into an ebook.  You can even go beyond the ebook and take your show on the road as a public speaker.

You already heard what Drake said: "There's money to made..."  So, make sure you're getting your fair share.  After all you have to survive in this economy.  Now days it really pays to diversify and not put all your eggs in one basket!

7-Enhance Not Subtract:  At the end of the day, whatever you're adding to your blog should always add to your greatness not take away from it.  With that said make sure you know your audience. Don't throw curve balls like awkward ads or sponsored posts out there because it could scare away readers.  I'm not saying don't take risks.  You're dealing with a lady who's blogged about sex and vibrators on here before.

What I'm saying is warn readers if you want to take a different direction or introduce something that is totally left field.  However, don't go too left just because the money looks good.  Not all lefts can be turned back into a right!

I hope that I've been able to shed some light on this challenging world of blogging with the tips I've learned.  Also, be sure to stay on the lookout for more webnars from Tara.  Below are some tentative dates and titles for webnars to be hosted by her in August.

August 3rd-Building Your Blog Purposefully

August 10th- Creating "Shareable" Content Easily and Quickly

August 17th- Money, Money, Money

August 24th- TBD

Thankful Thursday

This past weekend we celebrated my niece's 7th birthday down at my mom's.  Can't believe she's grown up in such a short amount of time.  She reads chapter books, uses big words correctly, is good at math and is pretty good at domestic stuff around the house.  I know some kids her age who can barely dress themselves. So, I am thankful that God has blessed me to be a part of her life and for making her such an intelligent young girl.

I am also thankful for the time I got to spend with my family.  We got to sort out some major issues and move on from some stuff.  And although there was a sour note towards the end with one of my siblings, I am thankful that I am learning not to let my family walk over me.  I have struggled with this for years because I love my family.  However, I am in a place where I love myself more and demand respect at all times!

I am thankful that God has been sending me signs.

  Lately, we have been stressing out about a few things.  But God reminded me that He is in charge and no mountain is too tall or heavy for Him to move.  I'm trusting and believing Him to help us resolve the situations.

I am thankful for the fact that Moo loves books and has such a great imagination.  That's rare in kids her age now days.  It warms my heart to see that I am doing something right.  I am thankful that JJ took a few steps unassisted yesterday.  I would have loved to have caught it on camera. I do hope it's not much longer until he is fully walking.

And while on the subject of JJ, I'm thankful that we are going 13 months strong with breastfeeding!  More on that later.

What are you thankful for?

Wordless Wednesday: But God

Saw this on the Faith Baby Facebook page and had to share it because God knows I needed this!

Sharing Memories With Winkiwoo

My mom and I are the most sentimental out of our family.  Ten times out of ten you'll catch one or both of us snapping away at family events- birthdays, Christmas, Easter, chorus recitals, etc.  However, I'm not always with my family.  We live in different states and so it can be a hassle trying to email or text pics back and forth.  My software might not be compatible with my mom's and vice versa.  Not to mention, a lot of my older family (aunts/uncles) don't have Facebook pages.

That's where Winkiwoo comes in handy.  Winkiwoo is a Facebook app that allows you to use your Facebook photos and statuses to create photo or status books.  You can also pull pictures from your friends and family pages to include in your book as well!  And the best part is that the entire process is a breeze.

Winkiwoo walks you step by step through creating your book. Check out the one I created below.

Super cute right?!!  Now my family can stay in the loop and see what the kids are up to even when we're apart.  These will make excellent gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, bridal showers, Mother's/Father's Day and Christmas too.  In fact, Plum District is offering a Winkiwoo Plum Steal: $5 a Winkiwoo 6x8-Inch Photo Book Made from Your Facebook Images - $15 Value 7/10/12 - 7/18/12.   Go grab this steal ASAP and share the memories with your family and friends!

How do you share memories/photos with your distant family & friends?

Bringing Sporty Back

The first car that I can remember my mom driving was a baby blue Toyota station wagon.  It had a matte navy blue leather interior.  We road everywhere in that car and I have so many memories.  I thought that little car was the bomb!  So, it's no wonder that as an adult Toyota is my go to brand when car shopping.

And this past June they released the Toyota Scion FR-S.  Ladies, forget what you heard about sports cars being for men.  This little baby is HOT!  I definitely won't be your average soccer mom driving this lovely speed demon.  Toyota is really bringing sporty back with the FR-S!

Brought to you by the all new Scion FR-S

Thankful Thursday

I hope that you all had an enjoyable and not too hot Fourth of July.  We did.  I'm thankful that the weather was much cooler.  It's been nice having a little break from those triple digits.  Tomorrow we're venturing down to my mom's for my niece's birthday.  So, I'm hoping that we'll have cool weather down there too.

I'm also thankful that we got to spend time and grill out with the Mr before he had to head off to work.  I can't remember the last Independence Day we got to grill out together with it just being us.  Moo was super excited because when we usually get up, the Mr is already asleep from having worked.  So, she was happy to have some time with her daddy.

I'm also thankful that our cabin fever isn't too bad.  I'm thankful that being indoors has its advantages.  I've been able to keep the kids and myself entertained.  I'm also thankful that I'm progress on my third book.  I definitely think that instead of just making this an ebook, I want to release it in paperback.  Speaking of books, if you've read This Is How We Do It be sure to leave us a book review on Amazon or Goodreads.com.

And I'm thankful that I'll have some giveaways coming up soon.  We're almost at 300 GFC subscribers and I'll be giving away a pretty sweet prize when we reach our milestone.  So, if you haven't invited your friends to check us out, go ahead and do that!

What are you thankful for this week?

4 Reasons I Celebrate The Fourth

I hope that everyone is having a great Independence Day!  Don't you just love holidays?  I know that we do.    And Independence Day is one of my favorites. Why?

1) Family- I love spending time with my family.  And the holidays make that time even more special.  There's laughter, jokes and tons of picture taking.

2) Food- Anyone who knows me knows that I love food!  Seriously, whether I'm cooking it or eating it, food is definitely something I enjoy to the highest.  And during the summer there's no place I'd rather be than outside firing up the grill.  The Mr was really great in setting the grill up after he got off work this morning.  The wasps had built a nest in it but my loving husband went out there and reclaimed our grill back. Love him!

3) Fireworks- I really like fireworks.  And I'm not just talking about the Katy Perry song.  Something about watching that light show in the sky that just takes me back to happy times from my childhood.  I have some funny stories from my childhood involving fireworks.  Don't worry, nobody was hurt in any of them.

4)Freedom- Who could forget the real reason why we celebrate Independence Day.  Freedom is something that we should never take for granted, especially when in this day and time there are still countries fighting for their freedom.

How are you and your family celebrating the 4th?

Adventures In Coloring

Have you ever colored with your child? I've been doing a little coloring with Moo and it's been quite an adventure. The other day she tried to convince me that Noah had a blue and purple beard! LOL.

Did you notice she gave him purple eyes too?!

 

We've had rainbow colored bunnies and princesses with orange hair too! I love her creativity and imagination. I've enjoyed being able to bond with her on her level. It's the simple joys like this that make motherhood priceless for me.

Do you color with your little one?

5 Ways to Beat the Heat

I don't know about you all but we've been having 95 degrees to triple digit weather here in the Carolinas.  That means the kiddies and I have not been venturing outside much.  In fact in the best week and a half we've only been to the grocery store, story time and church.  However, I'm determined to avoid Cabin Fever at all costs.  Here are five ways we're beating the heat.

This week's weather predictions

1) Sleeping In:  With the heat being pretty much unbearable, I haven't been scheduling anywhere for us to go.  So, with nowhere to go, we have been doing a lot of sleeping in.  Trust me that extra rest makes for the day better for everyone!  Operations in the YUMMommy household tend to run a lot smoother when I've had at least 6 to 8 hours of good sleep.

2) Cooking:  I love to cook.  We do very little eating out due to Moo's food allergies.  Anyways, Moo's taken an interest in being in the kitchen.  And for the past week and a half, she's become my kitchen helper.  It's amazing how much fun cooking with her has been.  We're getting quality time and making valuable memories together in the process.

3) Arts & Crafts:  Besides being a pretty good up and coming chef, Moo is quite the artist as well. It's been fun spending time coloring with her and making little creations to send Grandma and the rest of the family.  JJ has tried to join in but I don't think he's quite grasped the concept that crayons aren't for eating yet.

4) Dance Parties:  Some how it seems like my kids have more energy than the normal three and one year olds.  Since, we can't hit up the park and run that energy out, we dance it out in the living room.  Nothing like cutting a mean rug with your kids to a little Fresh Beat Band.

5)  Good Reads:  We're avid book readers.  I'm very happy that both my kids love books.  We signed up for the Summer Reading program at our local library.  That's proven to be such a blessing as we have been busy reading on a daily basis.

Reading themes for this year.

How are you and your family beating the heat?