Appreciate What You Have!

I saw this and laughed. Funny that we never know what someone else is thinking or even going through. 

I remember being away on a girls weekend and one girl would run every morning. I just layed on the couch and would think man why aren't I motivated. She had abs. She was solid. I mean amazing fit body. I was thinking wow she is so devoted and healthy to later find out she had an eating disorder. We never know someone's situation. 

We all want what we don't have. We all look at someone and think they have the life when reality they have their own demons to deal with. Let's all just stop. I know it's hard. But stop and be happy with what you see in the mirror and for all you have around you! Because reality is someone is looking at you and wishing they had something you have. 

Let Go Of What's NOT In Your Control

Goodbye August...Thanks For The Memories

All camps stopped beginning of August so I had the Month to have fun with the kids. We did our Playspace in Westport, joined Stepping Stones, play dates with our some of our favorites and discovered our new love: Merwin Meadows. We attended festivals and carnivals. We discovered how much we enjoyed lakes and the outdoors. We did stuff as a family and created memories with friends. I worked almost everyday too and was still able to enjoy it all. It was an amazing fun time. 

All good things do not last but that only means new adventures lay ahead. Every end of summer I think: how will we be able to top this summer next year and somehow we do. It's not about going out and spending money. It's packing snacks from home and singing in the car together. It's about asking your kid every night what was the best part of their day. It's BBQS and ice cream before lunch. It's creating memories and building your children's character. 

Think about your last 31 days. Think back on all the memories you too created   Think about laying in the sun and how the sand felt on your toes. 

Goodbye August. Thanks for being so good to us!

Off To School They Go...

Bittersweet day! Have a 3rd grader and a Pre K. My 3rd grader is more nervous and the one not going to school- my 2 year old is most prepared thinking she is going to school. Off to pack lunches and snacks and keep track off everyone's schedules. Wishing your kids and all the teachers the "Best Day Ever" and a safe, amazing and successful school year! Oh and to the parents stay strong!

Wednesday Motivation: Everyday Is A New Day

90 Day Challenge...What Challenge

So our 90 day challenge was a bust. I mean once you fall off the wagon it's hard to get back on. I did loose 7lbs but slacked the rest of the summer. It was an amazing summer and by the end I was walking around in my bathing suit and not caring. I mean I do care but this is who I am. I can't hide the fact that at night I rather be checking emails and following up on Social Media or writing on my blog instead of working out. I mean who enjoys working out at 10:00 pm. 

But with that being said I found a gym with daycare and plan on joining so I can work out in the morning while the older girls are in school. It's not just about exercising for the body but also for the brain. Helps relieve some stress, actually lots of stress! Time to release those built up toxins and sweat it out! It's good to have goals, right?!

To Speak Or Not To Speak

Three Faces...

Tuesday Motivation: Time Is A Precious Thing

Back To School Blues...

One more day and back to the grind. I see so many parents looking forward to back to school. Tonight I finally broke down and said to my husband it's so hard to console my 7 year old when I too do NOT want her to go back to school. He looked at me and laughed. No really I said. It's just too much work for me.

Homework, lunches, snacks, after school activities, weekend sports, Sunday morning choir. Ugh it's a lot of running around, trying to juggle dinner, kids being in two different schools across town from one another, baths, homeowner, projects, bedtime routine. All of it! 

Now the only thing I worry about is what bathing suit to put on them, snacks and a change of clothes. I know I sound like I am whinning and I sort of am but I like having my kids with me. I like summer vacation when I can call and check on them. I love that they too love being with me. 

I need to pull it together and get one big calendar and map out our next couple of months and how I will feed them all inbetween them. Full mommy duty. I know what you're thinking not so much fun. It's not but no one tells you this when you are trying to have a baby. No one tells you that school would be so much work for the parents too. 

Thanks For Not Being A Spoiled Brat!

I am not going to lie. I know I do a lot with my kids. I know I have a scary amount of energy. BUT I also know that being home with them drives me a little nuts so I enjoy them best when we are out and I can focus on THEM. Not the housework or laundry or dogs going in and out over and over again. I can be focused on them and what they need. 

After the lake we picked up lunch and I brought the two older ones for a Manicure. First time for both, my oldest has done pedicures before. So when we leave I told them let's go for ice cream. I told them to decide where to go. My oldest says could we go home and have the brownie Ben and Jerry's ice cream. Um yeah of course I say. The whole way home I kept thinking how I gave her the option to go anywhere and she chose ice cream we had at home. I was pretty proud of her!

See kids don't have to be brats! It's our job to help bring the best of them! Now can my kids whine and drive me crazy at times. YES, but don't show them experiences out there thinking if you do they will become a brat. Buying them wherever they want and not expecting them to be thankful makes them a brat. 

What Your Kids Draw They Can Now Wear

Imagine being able to walk around wearing the art you drew?! I know so cool. I have seen sights that can make jewelry out of your children's drawings and a teddy bear but now they can also make a dress out of it! Super clever!

Check this out: 

Awesome New Company Lets Kids ‘Wear Their Imaginations’

“Picture This” turns kids’ drawings into dresses!

http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/awesome-new-company-lets-kids-wear-their-imaginations_us_57c46d7be4b0664f13c9adf3?

Stop These 5 Things To Be Happier

Source: ️Thyroid Cancer Sucks

Stay At Home Humor

Monday Motivation: Believe In Yourself

Source: The Secret Facebook

Happy Birthday In Heaven Michael Jackson

Hope You Enjoyed Your Sunday: Cheers To A Great Week

Change Is Good: Keep Aiming For It!

By The Good Quote

Sunday Mornings: Switch It Up

It doesn't have to cost much or require

so much work to switch things up a bit in your life. We spent the morning at Merwin Meadows. Kids didn't know where we were going. We stopped at a bagel shop picked up egg sandwiches and bagels. Cost $20 to feed a family of five. I packed a cooler and beach toys. We stayed for two hours. Just enough for kids to swim and play on playground. It was very "zen". 

 Merwin Meadows now does not require a pass to get in since Summer season is over but there isn't any lifeguards on duty so be extra careful. 

Just another fun memory to add to our "staycation" before school starts. Looking forward to doing this again next Sunday. 

Bring Out Your Inner Child

I always loved the big slide as a child. As we were debating over Ferris wheel my three year old turns around and points to slide. Let's go I say. I felt like I was eight again. I am walking up the narrow steps and look down. Yeah never look down. I don't ever recall being so high up. I am holding my two year old and guiding my three year old up the narrow stairs. We reach the top. I am beaming. Let's do this!

Moms deserve some fun too! Let your inner child out and enjoy yourself. 

Optimism Is A Happiness MAGNET

What you give, you attract!

Choose Well

St George Greek Festival This Weekend in Norwalk

I love this festival. The food is delicious. They have valet parking so you don't have to deal with the traffic or rush. Fun rides for the kids. Always a fun time.

Festival is located at 238 W Rocks Rd Norwalk. Learn more here: https://www.facebook.com/events/252536248455571/?ti=icl

Need A Food Truck?

This is a cool site! CT Food Trucks is a source for all Food Trucks. You type in what type of food you're looking for and the area you are in and a list of Food Trucks from your search criteria pops up.

Last weekend a neighbor down the street had a food truck at their house warming party. Was super cool seeing people in lawn chairs and going up to the truck for food. It's a huge industry now. Some trucks even have a GPS locator on their website so you can see where they are. One of my favorite Taco Trucks does that so if you are looking for them you now where to find them. We are in a new century where meals on wheels has a whole new meaning. 

Check it out:

http://www.ctfoodtrucks.com/

Stamford Restaurant Week Now Until Sept 4th

I love going out to dinner and I love using Restaurant Week as an excuse to try something new or go back to one of my favorite places and try something new on their menu!

Now you too can use an excuse and miss a night cooking! There are over 30 downtown restaurants participating this week in restaurant week in Stamford. But all good things do come to an end so be sure to go out this week since this only takes place now until Sept 4th. 

Check out the restaurants and menus at http://www.connecticutrestaurantweek.com/restaurant-weeks-ct/stamford-restaurant-week-2011/

Happy Eating!!

Happy National Dog Day

It's national pup day! I gratefully have two amazing little pups that actually act more like my children than pets. They are 12 and 15 and as much as they are work at times I couldn't imagine my life without them!

Pup Lovers:

Share your pup pics in the comments section. Below are mine:

How Drinking Changes The Older You Get

Funny how the stages of drinking changes the older you get. Once you hit Mid-Thirties hangovers last three days so you weigh out the pros and cons to having a night out- which is when getting apps, ice cream and coffee sounds like a better idea. 

Shop For A Cause At Macy's This Weekemd

Today to Sunday Macy's will be donating a percentage of sales to the March of Dimes. Enjoy shopping this weekend knowing it will be helping people in need. 

Learn more here:http://shopforacause.macysinc.com

All information from Macy's website. 

Wake Up and Enjoy Life!

Live your life people! Wake up and make the most of your day, situation, life! I was texting my sister and she asked what I was doing with kids. I said staying in and taking it slow. She said I agree. This week of events really made her happy and I agreed. I reflect back on my week and smile from the memories we made with the kids. It really was great. Looking forward to making more this weekend and next week before they head back to school. Wish I could squeeze another 4 weeks of summer in but Fall is around the corner and that means: Brewfests, Apple Picking, Pumkin everything and cozy weather.  Not all good things have to come an end if you change the way you look at it!

Thomas Lovers There's Thomasland

This place looks amazing. I have added this to my list of "to do" with the kids. A whole amusement center devoted to THOMAS the Train- amazing!

I showed my husband and he asked "well how big could this place possibly be?" 11.5 acres! 11 themed rides featuring favorite characters like Cranky the Crane, Harold the Helicopter, and more! 

Yep, a whole lot of trains and action for the kids to enjoy especially my 3 year old who loves Trains, especially THOMAS the train! Readers have you been? If so please provide feedback!! If not check it out!

http://www.edaville.com/thomasland

Muse Paintbar Back To School Savings

This place is so much fun. Perfect for girls night out, date night or even to do with your kids. Check out this great deal and be sure to book your September painting night before Aug 31st: https://events.musepaintbar.com

Friday Motivation: Your Kids Are Watching

Big Shout Out To Kidville: Great Summer Playspace

School starts next week so this was our last 8:30 am Playspace class today. What a fun summer. We went from my neice sitting on the trampoline to now walking up and down it and will climb into pit.  My three year old now jumps up on the big bar and swings like a monkey. My 7 1/2 year old will do rock wall alone. The confidence these kids built has been amazing! The staff is amazing. Such a great time. Looking forward to Fall with the two little ones while the big kids venture off to school. 

Thanks Tanya- You Rock!

Maddie has been amazing with kids. Thx again!

Mary Kay and Milk Craft Why Not!

My sister texts me the other day, come to a Mary Kay party. No thanks. Her neighbor sells it. Actually is a top sales director for it and super sweet. But I passed on the offer. Then she sends me an invite for Free facials and makeover. I am in I say. 

Now the amazing thing about Mary Kay is that their consultants make you believe EVEYTHING they sell is amazing, life changing, must have and we the consumers buy  into it. $50 later my free makeover and facial isn't so free. That's good selling! But really I always loved their Satin Hands line. It's a three step process for your hands. It does wonders for men too. I use it on my husband's dry hands in the winter. Amazing!

I had a couple of glasses of wine already so we said we could do coffee or ice cream after. Lame I know. So I had to step it up. I talked her into Milk Craft and we took a ride. Now I have been before when they first opened on a Saturday at 11 and was not packed. Tonight was a 15 minute wait. Of course well worth it! If you haven't been GO!  I highly suggest their bubble cone, peanut butter and jelly with banana. Amazing!!!

Thanks For Waking Up To Me

Good Morning Readers!

I just wanted to thank you for waking up and reading my blog! If you ever have a company or product you want me to check out and write about please let me know! Mommyct2009@yahoo.com 

As always I appreciate you being a reader! Happy Thursday!

LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Westchester Deal

Children 2 and under get in FREE. Learn More Here: https://www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/westchester/

Whatever You Give A Woman Be Prepared

Thursday Motivation: Keep Moving

How To Feed Four Kids Ice Cream For The Price Of One

Let's face it whose toddler ever finishes their ice cream cone? Most of the time they end up having most of the ice cream on their hands and clothes and are a sticky hot mess.

 So the other day I got a free ice cream for spending $100 at the grocery store. I didn't really want to deal with my two toddlers eating a whole ice cream before lunch so I got a small cup and asked for two cones. 

Man why didn't I think of this sooner!! So this week I go back to same store and this time my sister spends $100 and gets a free voucher. Use it today she says. A light bulb went off. I will order I replied. I go up with my voucher. Ask for a small vanilla and four cones on the side. The girl says I can also get sprinkles and I said sure on the side would be great! 

Genius I know! So now I know what you're thinking they all like different flavors. No really they don't!! They all want what eachother have and if I am wrong then get two flavors in a cup and scope out separately on a cone. Why pay for something you know you will be the one to end up eating after all which kid ever really finish their cup of ice cream. They make you go back. Ask for a lid. Drive it all the way home just to see it is now soup and ends up in trash. I am a Mom,I get it!

Merwin Meadows In Wilton

My girlfriend has a Summer pass and has been asking all Summer to meet up there. I was always hesitant since I work Afternoons and didn't want to rush. With only a week left before school starts I knew if I didn't go now our chance would pass. So a couple of us met up and it was a blast. For non residents it's $10 per adult and $5 for kids 5 years and older for the day, 5 years and under are free, it cost me $15 for two and half hours of fun- you can stay all day if you like but I had to be home by noon. Summer pass is $120 for non residents and I think that will be on my list for next summer. So clean and sand is smooth. Perfect for my age group of kids. Oldest can swim and I went in with little ones. After they played on playground. Lifeguards are there at 10:00 am. Only a couple more days left to enjoy it. If you can be sure to check it out. Merwin Meadows Park in Wilton CT.

Prayers For Italy!

Forget Everything Else: Be A Mom First

Wednesday Motivation: Get Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Side Effects Of Motherhood Humor

Everything In Life Is Temporary

Feel Good Song: The Girls by Kings & Cookin' On 3 Burners

Love this song! Every summer I feel like a song represents it. I feel like this is my Summer 2016 song. So fun!

Sometimes Karma Comes Right Back: Instant Karma

I went to pick up my sister and neice at my father's shop this morning. On the way I decided it's been a while since I brought donuts to the kid's gym and the workers are so awesome so I wanted to bring in a treat. I stopped by Dunkin donuts. I called my sister to see who was there and said I am picking up breakfast for everyone. She laughed and said Pop gave her money to treat us to breakfast. So I surpised him still with a breakfast sandwich and donuts for his workers. 

After the gym we went grocery shopping. I saw these small Italian plums and bought a bag for my father. When we went back to pick up my sister's car my dad comes out with a case of bai juice for us he bought when he ran out to Costco. I hand him the bag of plums. We both laughed. We definitely were on the same wave legthen. 

Karma doesn't always happen this fast and sometimes it's the opposite. Like have you ever thought something negative about a person and then tripped. Instant Karma we call it. Today was Instant Good Karma. If feels good to give and good to receive. What situations have you faced that you can relate?

It's Great To Have Friends But Nothing Compares To Having Best Friends

Source: Fiesty Chicks page Facebook 

Best Of Gold Coast 2016 Winners

What a great resource for Fairfield County of places to check out. If you had the chance to vote check out if your favorites  made the list. Congrats to ALL the winners.

http://www.bestofgoldcoastct.com/b/Best-Of-The-Gold-Coast-Winners-2016/index.php/section/FOOD%2B%2526%2BDRINK/

Best Of Shoreline 2016 Winners

For those who voted check out the results for the "Best Of Shoreline". Which one of your favorites made the list? Congrats to all the winners!

http://the-e-list.com/2016/07/best-of-the-shoreline-2016-winners/

Tuesday Motivation: You Have The Ability To Make A Positive Impact OnSomeone's Life

Craving Desserts: 20 Delicious Desserts To Try In CT

I have dinner planned this week with a girfriend in Fairfield. She said she's been craving naughty desserts so I decided to look up some new places to check out. Although there are some awesome places I would add to this list it is a great source to satisfy any sweet tooth. 

I also am a huge fan of this site and really like their suggestions. What places would you add?

20 CT Restaurants for Decadently Delicious Desserts http://www.ctbites.com/home/2016/2/7/20-ct-restaurants-for-decadently-delicious-desserts.html

Feel Good Song: Spirits by The Strumbellas

How Parenting Is Like Visiting Las Vegas

Staycation It's The Real Deal

It's the last full week of summer vacation and I plan to live it up. I know sounds silly but I love having my girls with me. I think since I work every afternoon I am motivated to have fun mornings with them and since we didn't take a full week off to go away I am pushing as much quality time together as possible.

When I first had my daughter I didn't have anyone close to me who had kids or who wanted to give me advice or input or took me under their roof to do play dates or kid activities. None of my friends had children and I was so eager to get involved in kid stuff that I actually joined a Mommy meet up group in Fairfield County online. It was amazing. They taught me what activities were available around town. What gym classes and mommy and me classes to take.  Now 8 years later my sister moved back to town and she has a one 1/2 year old. I am loving showing her the robes. 

Four mornings a week we go out with the kids and it's been amazing. I wish I had someone close to me who would be willing to do this when I had a baby that it makes me even more motivated to show her all the amazing things out there to do that I had to figure out on my own. And let's be honest some things do cost money but a ton are FREE. We split a couple family memberships and now our kids have different options of where to go play but we also go to local parks and beaches and they are all free. My daughters did two free camps this summer. The library has free events. It's amazing the resources available. 

It's been a really awesome and fun thing having the cousins play together. When I pick my sister and niece up my niece screams on top of her lungs as if she saw a Rockstar. I have never had anyone have that reaction of me pulling in the driveway in my minivan. My friend gave me a car seat she doesn't need so I could keep a permant one in my car for my niece. 

It's amazing memories we are creating together and the love they have for one another is awesome. We have even helped eachother with babysitting so we can have some alone time. We really look out for one another.  I wished I had this when my oldest was a baby but I met a lot of amazing moms along the way and were able to create memories and build friendships that way. Now I get to live it up and what's better than with family who enjoys our company as much as we enjoy theirs.

Monday Motivation: Make It Count