3 Step Journey to Having Three Kids

First Child

Everything is new. I was on bed rest and it was an awful pregnancy but I was so happy because it was new and I was pregnant and had this baby growing in my belly. She made a  "Mom" I was the best mom or would like to think that my first born was amazing because I was amazing. It wasn't because of me, she was who she was. I helped bring that out but she came out that way too.  She slept. She was sweet. We did everything together. I took her every where with me. Life was easy, even though with your first it is the hardest change.

Second Child

You began to feel you would be missing out with alone time with your first and guilty that you would not be able to love and give your second as much as you gave your first. You think "could I possibly love her as much as her older sister. " you start to understand the connection your parent has with her first and try to build it with your second all while you're still pregnant. 

Once she arrives all changes. Of course you love her as much as your first. She's another creation that is a different variation of who you and your husband are. You don't want her compared to her big sister.  You want her to be accepted for her own unique personality. You track her milestones not as best as the first but you try your best. You cannot image a third because how could you handle a third.

Third Child 

I never planned on a third- well at least not so soon. You're a little over the pregnancy thing and then as it inches towards your due date you think "OMG this is my last pregnancy. Maybe we should have a fourth". Once you realize you never napped like you could with pregnancy one and two the thought of another pregnancy disappears real fast. 

You hope your clothes from previous babies still look good to reuse- I lucked out having three girls so they could use each other things. You definitely don't go buy new maternity clothes. You think "I am sorry baby. I don't think I even talk to my belly and don't want you to think yelling is my permanent voice."  You feel sad your middle child is no longer the baby and she will now be labeled the "middle child" which she always acted like one but felt you could change her. You cling onto your middle one and try to baby her because well we all know once the baby comes she is no longer the one getting all the attention.

Milestones...you intend to write them down and like to believe that you will remember. Which we all know you won't.

Having Three Children

You wish your house was bigger so they all could have their own personal space. You don't rush the youngest growing up because she will walk and talk and be Independent soon enough. You try to take your first out once in a while alone so she doesn't resent not having any alone time with you.

Your second amazes you with her fast learned independence. She thinks and acts and does things like her big sister but in who own way. She wants to grow up fast and you take moments out of your day to try to sit with her so you can play with her and take in those special moments. You actually start to read books about having multiple children and how to handle different personalities. 

Your third, well mine at least, is calm and normally always some where her sisters can't fall on or touch so normally the pack an play while you try to shower and make dinner and clean and pack lunch and give the others a bath. 

When you pass by she looks up and smiles because for the quick second you finally make eye contact. You often apologize to all of them for wishing you could make each happy all the time but we know that is impossible. At night when the older ones are asleep you take out the play mat and play with her. You notice then how much she's already changed and grown and is rushing to be like her two older sisters. 

You love them all the same but enjoy their company doing things that they enjoy. They are NOT all alike but you cannot image your life without them. They are all your favorite in their own way.
 

Once Alone Time

Once you get a minute to yourself you miss them all. You miss the chaos and need for you to help them. You feel overwhelmed with gratefulness to have them. You realize you wouldn't change anything and they are three complete different variations of who you and your husband are. You rush and clean the house, cook and run errands so when they finally get home you think you will finally have time to give them all your undivided attention- which we all know is nice to think but can never happen because you are now and will always be a mother to three kids!

One More Week - Life Off Thyroid Medicine

One more week to go. Man this week has been tough! I have been off my meds for 3 weeks and on the low iodine diet for a week. My body is starting to really feel the withdraw of thyroid medicine now.

Symptoms:

* Metallic taste in mouth

* Hot flashes 

* Dry scalp 

* Loss of appetite

* Bad headaches

* Insomnia

* Extreme body aches

* Mood swings

* Puffiness

* Feeling mushy

* Brain fog

It's awful. I am beginning to now know what my doctor meant when she told me I will " feel like I'm torturing my body." 

Being a mom to three is tough enough so feeling like this on top of it adds more stress. My girls really have been great. I even gave my oldest a heads up incase I didn't seem like myself. I hate to have her think I am on a special "diet" for weight loss. I explained to her that I need to eat this way to make sure scar on my neck is ok. I never say Cancer in front of her. I do not want it to worry her. She understood. She even wished me luck on my first day!

It's really important to have a strong support system or someone who understands what you're going through. Gratefully I do. My mom has cooked a couple of meals for me and helped even more with my kids.  My dad has helped with bringing my oldest to school so I don't have to bring the younger two out in the cold. I have a friend with thyroid issues that I thank god for. I can turn and vent to her whenever needed. Don't ever do this alone!

Food Always Makes Everything Better:

In my life food always makes everything better. Here are some dishes that has been helping me. All made with organic and fresh ingredients and low iodine salt. 

Orange juice & banana smoothie (1/2 cup oj, 1banana, 1/2 cup water and ice blend together) and fried egg white sandwich on low iodine homemade bread. 

Low salt pasta with homemade low iodine sauce. (Sauté onions and garlic in Olivie oil, brown meat loaf mix add fresh diced tomatoes. Let simmer 20 mins. Add low iodine salt per preference)

Low iodine stew with beer. Add all the meat potatoes veggies to crock pot  Add 2 cups water. Oregano. Table spoon Olivia oil. Low iodine salt. 1 bottle dark beer. Cook low 8 hrs. 

Organic celery with no salt added organic peanut butter and raisins. 

Some of these recipes were inspired from the thyca.org. Low Iodine cook book. 

http://www.thyca.org/download/document/231/Cookbook.pdf

Stop Chasing The Wrong Things!

Parenthood:I Must Be Doing Something Right!

95% of the time they are happy kids. Makes me think I must be doing something right!

It's the Holiday Season

Cheers to a Happy & Healthy Holiday!

Qdoba Mexican Grill in Norwalk Plus Giveaway

I had the pleasure getting to taste a delicious assortment of Mexican food on behalf of Qdoba Mexican Grill in Norwalk. It was perfect timing to be selected for them to cater a party because we decided months ago to do a Mexican theme for my daughters 6th birthday this weekend. After Thanksgiving no one wants turkey or ham again so we wanted to mix it up. This time we got to have an awesome party with limited work and amazing Mexican food.

We had the nacho bar and it was awesome. We enjoyed fresh tortilla chips with all the salsas and guacamole and fixings. Their chips are thinner than your normal nacho chip and have a hint of lime with an awesome crunch for each bite.  They are perfect to top off with the huge tray of chicken and beef. We also got a tray of queso that has a tint of heat in the cheese and a tray of black beans. I can't forget about the tray of lime white rice- my favorite. I topped half of the rice with their fresh cilantro and guests even got warm tortillas to make wraps. It was a GREAT Mexican feast! Everyone left full and happy. 

Qdoba manager came, set up our taco bar and even brought burners to keep everything warm. They gave me vouchers to hand out in their favors so ALL my guests could visit their restaurant and enjoy a free entree. AWESOME is right and NOW you too can win a chance of getting a gift cards for free so you too can visit an Qdoba in your area. 

GIVEAWAY in Norwalk

Enter a chance to win a free gift cards for meals at Qdoba Mexican Grill In Your area.  Please share in the comments section YOUR favorite Mexican dish and if you really want to list the recipe too. A winner will be picked by December 8th. 

Good Luck!!

Happy Thanksgiving

When I think of Thanksgiving I picture a time to gather for a meal prepared by the ones you love and give thanks for what you have. Well my morning DID not start that way.

My second one did not want to nap. I finally put her down and after my daughter decided to be on speaker phone with a call she woke up.

Then I attempted to let the children get dressed because that at times calmed them. Well big mistake letting my second one be without a diaper while I ran into the other room and looked for wipes. 

By this time I am fuming. My husband turns to me and says "maybe you should go for a drive" Instead I say next life no kids for me and pack the diaper bag. 

Guilt took over me and at that moment they are all calm. They look adorable in their dresses. And are getting along. I knew at that moment that yes the chaos sucks and makes you want to hid in a corner and cry but then it stops and you remember the joys of being a parent.

I always sing in my head "no body said it was easy" as a way to calm myself. 

Shockingly they were great the remaineder of the day.

Parent hood is rough but then it's wonderful. Rewarding. Beautiful. Fun. 

I am thankful! At times it's too much for me but then it all seems to get better. 

I realized my life is real. It's no fairy tales. It's what you see is what you get. It's good times and bad times. And fights and screaming and laughs and kisses. It's real. And I wouldn't change that for anything. 

Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours!!

Thanksgiving Humor

Thanksgiving Joke

Why did the stuffing hide behind the Turkey? It was dressing!

"Friends"giving

"Friends"giving: a time to gather for a traditional Thanksgiving meal with those who are not family but feel like family! Grateful for this bunch!

Thyroid Cancer Follow Up

This week I received the news on how my follow up will be. See being pregnant didn't allow me to have proper follow up from my treatment for Thyroid Cancer. I now have to be off my medicine for a month. Do the low iodine diet for two weeks and then have an injection and body scan to see if any thyroid tissue grew or if any cancer is still left in my body. How do I feel?! Not so happy!

When I am off my medicine my whole body changes. As my doctor calls it I will be "torturing my body." I will become in "hypo" state. Tired, achy, weight gain, dry skin, weak, brain fog, delayed reaction and moody. All the fun things I dread. 

To prevent weight gain I started doing gluten free. I will do it until I have to switch to the low iodine diet. The problem with the low iodine diet is that everything I did in preparation to my treatment reminds me of being nauseous and sick. You know when you eat something and get sick you can never want to eat it again? Well that's me now. Anything I reference to the low iodine I feel quesy. It's awful. 

The whole point is if there is anything supicious I will have to have a repeat RAI treatment. 

So please don't be alarmed if my tone changes in my posts for the next month. My levels won't be normal so I won't be normal. 

Whoever said Thyroid Cancer was easy never had to deal with Thyroid Cancer. 

Build Memories Clean Later

"Sit sit" my little one shouts as she drags her bag of blocks across the room. So I put the broom down and sit. I watch as she builds with her blocks. Thinking "will I ever get to clean this house?!"  

It's my day off and I want to clean but can't. The two younger ones want my constant attention. I finally put both little ones down for a nap and get ready to mop but all of a sudden I hear "mommy" and the baby is crying. 

So I mop really quick and tend to them. 

This is my life... A messy house and children who want my constant attention. Will we always have to clean? Yes. Will our children always be little? No 

Best Pumpkin Pie Recipe

This is the best and easiest recipe for a Pumpkin Pie. I got it off a can of Stop & Shop pumpkin purée.

What you need for 1 Pie:

1 pie crust- I get already made in freezer section

1 can of pumpkin (15 oz) -Libby is great or Stop & Shop brand

2 eggs

1/2 cup sugar- I go a little over 1/2

1 tsp cinnamon - I love cinnamon so always add a little more or at least 2 tsp 

1/2 tsp ground ginger

1/4 tsp nutmeg

3/4 cup light cream or milk- I use organic whole milk

Preheat oven 350 degrees. Beat eggs in a bowl with a fork. I then add the sugar and spices. Beat all together. Add pumpkin. Mix well then slowly add milk. Pour in a pie crust. I always put pie crust on a baking sheet incase it over flows. I always put extra mix in smaller dishes for the kids to eat. Bake for 50 mins or until crust is golden brown. Serve with ice cream or whip cream or both!

Why I Love Fall

The crisp air

Light sweaters

Firepits and s'mores

Pumpkin picking

Apple cider

Corn mazes

The foliage 

Cozy clothes

Thanksgiving

Holiday shopping

Are all the best things that come out during Fall!

Thanks To All Who Served & Serve

Happy Veteran's Day to all the heros who have protected and continue to protect us. I thank you today and always!

 

Seize the Moment Now Quote

My Baby's Day

This past weekend was my little one's baptism. Never did I think a year ago I would be throwing another baptism for my 3rd daughter. This baby is so sweet and calm and good for my soul. Whenever I hold her I get this wave of peace over me. She's truly a blessing and we had an amazing day with so many people we love and who love us. We are truly blessed!

No Apologies For Who You Are

Being Happy Quote

Being happy depends on your own actions and wishes.  If you what to be happy don't expect someone else to create that happiness for you, create it for yourself !

Find Your Own Voice Quote

I love this!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

When I was 14 my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was one of the hardests things I had to deal with. Being14 you already have emotional things happening then to think your mom may die totally made my teenage years rough. Thankfully she beat it and has been cancer free for 20 years. 

Don't be a fool get your mammograms. Don't be embarrassed if you feel something! Do your breast self exams. See a doctor yearly.  You too can beat 

breast cancer if caught early enough!

October is breast cancer awareness month be sure to book your mammogram!

*Image from The Breast Cancer Site 

See The Big Picture Quote

"Don't isolate in one area of your life and say. "Well my whole life is runied." That's just part of your life. See the big picture." Joel Osteen Ministries

Motherhood My Reasons For Being Here

They melt my heart and bush my buttons. Some nights I am so tired that resting even hurts. Just when I don't think I have enough patients they make me laugh. They make me love who I am for creating such amazing little people  When I am with them I can't help to think "What a wonderful life I have!"

Being a parent can be bitter sweet. But when they are all with me like below I am amazed how they are a part of me. I want to hold them and keep them happy and small forever. They are the reason I am here.

Believe In Yourself Quote

Feel Good Song: Blame by Calvin Harris

Have a Little Patience

She didn't know I had an emergency for work or that I was up all night and short tempered. My daughter just wanted my attention and she wanted it now. I had to take a second to regroup. Deep breaths and say to her to give me a second I was handling an important matter. 

This happens all the time. As a parent we deal with "important issues" while our children think their needs are just as or even more important than what we are doing. We need to take deep breathes and have more patience. 

I remember being in kindergarten and crying hysterical over my "boyfriend" not wanting to play with me. Can you imagine what my mom must have thought. She had three children and a day care. She was making dinner and I threw a tantrum at the kitchen table. 

Silly I know. But we need to put ourselves in that 5 yr old place to fully understand and comprehend what they are feeling. Yes at 5 yrs old that would be the end of the world at 34 we laugh about it. 

Take the time and talk to your child. Don't dismiss their emotions. Explain that you may be short tempered or have to fix a mistake at work and then can help them. I promise once you do they will back off- maybe for 5 mins but at least it is something. And always put yourself in their shoes. 

There's a lot I learned these past couple of years. Always put yourself in other peoples shoes before you react and work on having more patience. What is silly to one person means the world to another. 

What You Can Give & Keep Quote

"Among the things you can give and still keep are your word, a smile, and a grateful heart." Zig Ziglar

Feel Good Song: Animals By Maroon 5

Happily Ever After Quote

"It is only possible to live happily ever after on a day to day basis." Margaret Bonnano

Be Positive- Remember You Attract What You Give Out

Live For Today

"No regrets, no what ifs, live for today! Be where you want to be, love who you what to love. This is your chance to finally be happy. So be happy!" 

Healthy After School Snacks

I am a protein pusher-big time. My daughter loves carbs. She can eat pasta all day everyday. She also loves fruit. She's very picky with veggies but what I find myself pushing the most is...protein.

Whether it's adding a yougurt or smoothie to her breakfast or sneaking in a meatball or string cheese in her lunch box. I constantly find myself adding protein to every meal.  

After school I noticed she is so hungry that she will really eat anything. So of course I do-at times give her something sweet- most of the time I push chicken nuggets or a meat, with fruit and a fun carb. 

What do YOU focus on when providing snacks?

Part of Our Destiny

Casting Call: Do You Have A TV Worthy Recipe?

It's almost that time of day.. Dinner time! Do you cook with or without your kids? Is there a family recipe you hold near and dear to you? 

The CHEW is looking for families in the NJ/ NY/CT area who have a winning recipe to be on the show. Check it out: http://bit.ly/TheChewFWC

How Is Your House So Clean- Do Children Live Here

First situation:We got invited over for dinner. I knew they only had his step daughter living there with them.  She was probably 6 at the time. There was NO sign of her toys anywhere. Strange I thought. 

Second Situation: I walked in and they decided to turn their playroom into a sitting room. What is going on I thought? Where will they roam and play. 

These are two examples of houses I have been to that lack signs of children's stuff. Jealous. Umm a little! I mean I love my children more than anything but they take over my WHOLE house. 

Situation one. The little girl kept everything in her bedroom. I mean all her toys. The rest was what a house was suppose to look like without you tripping over toys. Or Legos mixed in with the tv remote. 

Situation two. The kids were getting older and hung out in their room more. 

I gave my kids a playroom so they wouldn't leave their stuff everywhere and guess what... it still is!

Whose to blame... ME of course  

Today's Motivation: You Are Unlimited

Today's cup of tea had a great inspiring message! 

A Mother's Greatest Masterpiece Quote

"A mothers greatest masterpiece is her

children!"

How to Survive Motherhood

How do you survive motherhood? Laughter...laughter is key to surviving motherhood because it helps you stay sane!!!

How It Is Suppose To Be

How true is this? We all think our lives are suppose to be a certain way and when it's not we get depressed or down or can't focus on the present. We need to stop thinking the "what ifs" and enjoy the reality of the current life we are facing. 

Enjoy your current situation. And if it isn't what you want it to be then change it!

What Superpower Do You Wish You Had?

I wish I could split myself up! I wish there were "mulitple" me!!!

I wish I could be with my oldest daughter all the time. I love how smart she is. I would love to challenge her with different knowledge.  We have so much fun hanging out, going out and eating. She's a foodie like me and I love it. She's so outgoing and happy. I am happy when I am with her. She loves to play Board games and she's always asking me questions that make me really think before I can answer.

I wish I could be with my second daughter all the time. She's only 18 months and can do so much. She loves to try to put things together. I love sitting and watching her play. The way she moves. The way she takes her time to do things. She also loves farm animals so I wish I could take her to the farm all the time and see her interact with the animals. She loves dogs so I wish I could take her to a pet store to play with the animals. 

I wish I could split myself up to always be able to be with my baby. She's such a sweet loving baby. When I shake the rattle she is so alert and tries to talk to me. You know her soul is trying to reach out. It's amazing at 5 weeks how smart I know she will be. She's so pretty too. She has the best cheeks that I love to kiss up. Her skin is so soft. She is at peace when she's with me. I am her mamma and she already adores me. 

I wish I could be with my husband all the time without the chores and duties of life. He makes me happy. He's smart and funny and yes at times we get on each others nerves but we really enjoy eachothers company. We like to eat, drink, shop and try new things out. We go to fairs and festivals and have a blast like children. I love road trips. We pick up food and I blast the music and sing my heart out. He gets me and at times I think I get him. 

My list goes on....I wish I could give everyone I love my undivided attention. I want them to know that I rather be with them then do anything else. 

What superpower do you wish YOU had?

Want Good Children? Then Be a Good Parent!

Lessons Learned in Life-Who's Made an Impact in Your Life?

Key to a Successful Marriage

The key to successful marriage is...Date Night. 

I know I know, communciation is just as important but come on have you tried having a serious conversation at home, with the kids around? Yeah no! Most the time I keep it in my head to discuss with him for when they kids are in bed and then I end up falling asleep on the couch. 

Date night doesn't have to be expensive or even at night. You can do something during the day for a couple hours. One night we had my mother in law watch the kids while we went to a hall to view thier room to book out daughters baptism and on the way one we popped in a place for a slice of pizza. Another time we got tickets to a brewfest during the day and my mother watched the kids. 

These little "dates" help you two regroup. Luckily for me we have so much family around available to babysit so if you don't then don't do it as often to save money on a sitter or get some fun apps and a bottle of wine. When the kids go to bed enjoy it with one another.

Make time to make things special. Being a parent we get caught up in being "mom" and "dad". Take a time out to be you! You'll be happier and your kids will be happier because you are happier!

Why Having Kids Are Like Getting A Tattoo

Having kids is like getting a tattoo. Once you have one you keep wanting more. You forget the pain you go through and how expensive they are. You may love and also dread the fact you'll have it forever! 

Some don't turn out the way you expected. Some you love to show off to the world. Always make sure to make the decision with a clear sober mind. Some kids and tattoos will alter your image.

Before you get that itch to have one know the facts and that whenever and if  you decide to have or get one it will be a part of you forever!

"Having a baby is like getting a tattoo on your face. You really need to be certain it's what you want before you commit." Elizabeth Gilbert, Eat, Pray, Love 

Share Your Story Quote

What's Holding You Back

I have written books & poems, created paintings & art and my husband always asks why I don't publish anything or put things out there to share. I finally knew why...I don't want my work criticized or judged. 

It's not just the negative feedback that people often have a hard time accepting but even compliments. We also feel we could do better, be better and are a little possessive of our "work".  

So I have decided to NOT be this way anymore and decided I will let my free spirit shine through! I know timing isn't  best since I have a newborn but I decided at night I will try to "work" again and will even start painting again. Stay turned... And I WELCOME your criticism as I share it with all of you!

What has been holding YOU back?

"When you put yourself out there you must be prepared to receive criticism as well praise!" JCF

Remembering 9-11

Today's a day to remember how grateful we all should be to be here. We fly all the time. We go to work. We kiss our families goodbye without a thought that we would  be victims of acts of terror attacks. Those people did not deserve to die! Hopefully one day we all could live in a world of peace and no fear! Never forget! 9/11 

Retail Therapy Humor

Mommy with Her Three Little Girls

There isn't a moment that goes by that I don't look at them and think how truly blessed I am! I wish I could live forever just so they will never be without me and so I never miss a moment being with them!

What Makes Your Soul Happy?

The Reason Men Are The Way They Are

I have been with my husband for a long time, long enough to have learned how most men function, how they think and their truth behind their actions. Although men and women are different in so many ways they are also similar in many ways! I have learned men who have little respect for women or lack commitment or are scared of commitment or settling down have had a woman in their life that once broke their heart.

Think about the "womanizers" you know. Sometimes these women set back to their teenager years. Sometimes it is not just a girlfriend who did the damage but the lack of love from a mother. 

See men need love as much as women. Men need stability too! So if there's a man in your life lacking commitment look for the source that damaged him and I am sure it will lead to the opposite sex! And lesson learned for the women out there the damage you cause to a man, even though he may act like he is ok, will stick with him and influence his future relationships so chose what you do wisey. Your actions can and will effect him!

             

"Behind every damaged man is a woman who once broke his heart!" JCF

Life Quote

Not Perfect But a Good Mom Quote

"There's no way to be a perfect mother, and a millions ways to be a good one!" Jill Churchill

Thyroid Cancer Awareness

Let Go Of Your Anger

I turned 30 a point in your life where you should be happy in your skin and content with life. I wasn't. I went through a rough couple years in my early 30's. I only had my oldest daughter and trouble getting pregnant, my husband and I fought a lot, I hated working from home and always wanted to be out, I partied more then I should have, I smoked, I ran a lot- it helped release stress. It should have been the best years of what was yet to be and it wasn't. Thankfully it got better but I had a lot of anger in me. Not so much anger as in rage but anger in trying to figure out what I wanted in life and where I was going and who I was and what made me happy. I was sick of doctors and being poked at for trying to get pregnant, my husband wasn't happy where he was in his career, he was angry too and crabby which would make me crabby.

I needed some soul searching! 

The first step in making your life better is owning and admitting the fact you need to make it better. I wanted my relationship with my husband to be better, I wanted to be that care free soul again, I wanted more children and I was happy with working from home as long as I knew I was having more children to care for. I didn't want to party anymore or be unhappy or fight or not know what I wanted. 

I let go of all of that, woke up and said I want another Baby and a good happy marriage and worked on it and it happened. 

It was not easy but it was better. My house and marriage was my bubble. It was my escape from the outside "noise" and drama and when that bubble gets interrupted or effected and was no longer my escape it was hard to find comfort and happiness. 

Find your happy place. When we are unhappy it means we are lacking something in our life. Figure it out and then work towards making things better. Let go of any anger and what ifs and unhappiness. Own up to what is making you angry or unhappy. 

Those years took years off my life. It was awful to have felt that way. Now the peace I have has given me a new life and outlook on things and who knew two more babies later, and dealing with thyroid cancer I would be back to feeling good about life like I did in my 20's. 

September is Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month- What's YOUR Story?

I had symptoms, symptoms that were pretty common and associated with random things but never did I think it would be Thyroid Cancer! Increased hair lose, a lump in my throat that I never followed up on, PCOS, hard time getting pregnant, insulin resistance, my medical list went on but for some reason it never occurred to anyone it could be my thyroid causing everything. 

I failed my 1 hr glucose pregnancy test while pregnant with my 2nd daughter. My OB insisted I see a specialist. Specialist felt a lump, I had thyroid cancer. 4 nodules full of Papillary Thyroid Cancer.  My saving Grace was it didn't spread! My daughter she saved my life!

After getting my whole thyroid removed, RAI treatment and monitoring of my levels I got pregnant.  Today I am here with my family alive and well and grateful. So grateful. I have been Cancer free for 16 months. I am so lucky. My scar is not noticeable, my voice is back to normal. My hair loss stopped.  I met an amazing friend who also has thyroid issues that gets what I am going through. I have a huge support system. I have three amazing daughters that I wake up everyday and thank god for. 

I survived Thyroid Cancer! I am grateful for my amazing doctors! Dr Randolph in Norwalk and Dr. Carlin in Yale. My OB Dr. Kerr saved my life, she insists my daughter did all the work but she pushed me to see someone, so to her I am forever grateful. Listen to YOUR Body! Make sure you have good doctors. Never ignore what could be happening to you.  

Share YOUR story with me!

Black Bean Salad

So one day I noticed we had beans and didn't know what to do with it so I created this awesome, refreshing cold black bean salad. I have had similar recipes at restaurants. Sorry if measurement isn't accurate but these are the basic steps and ingredients. 

1big can Goya black beans

2 tablespoons Olive oil

2 tablespoons white vinegar

1 cup corn

1/2 cup chopped onions

1/2 cup chopped carrots

1/2 cup chopped celery

2 tsp salt

1 tsp black pepper

Drain beans and mix with rest of ingredients. I cut corn off cob. Add more vinegar, salt and pepper based on preference. Serves 4 people as a side dish. If making for a picnic double recipe. 

Chill over night. 

Being Mom Quote

" I know how to do anything- I'm a Mom." Roseanne Barr

Life's Adventures

Who do you want on your journey?

Best Friend Humor

Feel Good Song: Sia Chandelier

1st Grade Huge Change Who Knew and Transition from the BaBa

This was a big week for my two older girls, my oldest started 1st grade, my middle one transitioned off the baba. So far both seem to be doing ok!

1st grade is a huge transition...who knew? I didn't even think twice about it. I mean she was going to the same school and I knew she would have friends in her class so I didn't give it any thought until she came home after the 1st day and insisted she didn't want to go back!

She no longer had a restroom in her class so now my little girl had to get a bathroom pass and walk alone to the bathroom. Sounds so silly but what a huge thing. Ironically she said she felt more comfortable walking in when no me else was there vs. when kids she didn't know where in there. Her words "I looked at them and thought I wonder what they think when they look at me. I thought maybe they thought she seems like a cute sweet little girl, but I still didn't know so I was uncomfortable!"  So needless to say the 1st day she didn't use the rest room at all, second day she used it once, third day twice. Guess she's getting the hang of things. 

In Kindergarten the teacher waits for the parents to arrive to release the kids once the bell rang, in 1st grade you went out with the whole school!  The first day is always a mob scene. Parents hovering around the door waiting for their children. Always the oldest spill out first, later the younger stagger outside. Once the bell rang I moved closer and closer to the door until I peeked in and saw my little one in a line. "Mamma I didn't see you so I waited in line" Of course it was a line the kids created on their own because in 1st grade teachers released kids from their class and they were off to fend on their own. Huge change I know!!

 Day 2 I inch closer to the door to hear this little voice shouting "Mamma Mamma" Shoot I thought, could that be my kid?!? Then I see her dress in a distance and could tell she was all nervous. I run up to her and she's all shook up "I wasn't sure if you were here yet and I got scared". Day three we picked a spot outside that who ever would be picking her up would be waiting at so she could walk right out and up to the spot. Seemed to work. So lesson learned:1st grade is a huge change, they transition from being hand held doing everything to being independent.  Do I agree with it...not really. I mean after all she will always be my little girl but it is nice to see her being independent. 

Say bye to baba. I just kind of  took it away. I mean my kid was drinking her baba more than eating and it came to a point she would have outbursts for it, plus she was falling asleep drinking it and it would leak all over causing a mess and lots of laundry for us  So I stopped it and switched to a sippy. 

1st day she didn't drink it at all! She refused! She ate so much and napped so longer with a full belly. I felt bad but didn't give up. Then after doing some reading I decided to try the sippy cup with a bottle nipple. Ran out to two different stores and bought a bunch. I know you're thinking "defeats purpose" but really her drinking from a sippy will transition her to move to next type of nipple. So I collected all my bottles and put away the liners and she started to slowly adjust. She doesn't drink it as often as before but she will drink it before bed and it comforts her again. Next up I will attempt to potty train her. She's 18 months and grabbed a wipey to wipe her butt...a sign it may be time!

Overall I must say I am a proud mamma and felt its been a big and successful week in my household! And lesson learned...every new adventure is a big adventure no matter what it is!

Best Banana Smoothie

Lately I have been on a smoothie kick. Since bananas ripe so fast I have been freezing them and making smoothies. My girls love it. 

What You Need:

* 2 ripe banana (optional if frozen or not)

* 1 cup milk ( prefer organic whole milk)

* 2 teaspoons of cinnamon

* 2 tablespoon of Chobani vanilla yogurt  

* 4 ice cubes (optional)

If you are using frozen bananas then let them sit out 20 mins. Mix all ingredients and serve with a fun kid straw. 

Baby Number Three

"It started off with one and we fell in love so sweet that lead us to number two to make us feel complete. Then to our great surprise we got blessed with number three to throw us for a loop with this unexpected little treat . All together our family is now officially complete with three amazing little girls hanging by our feet." JCF

Final Day Before I Meet My Third Child

No matter how many pregnancies you have it's always magical when you hear your baby's first cry. I still can remember both my daughters. My first was short as sweet. Three cries and that's it. My second went on and on and then and there I knew she was spunky. The minute they brought her to me and she heard voice she stopped. It's an experience like no other.  

It's hard having a c-section because you depend on so many people to help you after you give birth. I am so grateful and lucky to have both sides of our family near by willing to help. But preparing to be depending on others stinks. I stocked the fridge. Cleaned the house. Picked out outfits for my kids for the next four days. It's like preparing for a vacation when all you want to do is rest. 

Today is about packing my last minute items for hospital, taking care of all bills, making sure I stop by bank to have cash on us. Cameras need to be charged. Laundry needs to be finished. Gratefully my husband is capable of helping. I am trying to squeeze in a big nap and want my kids to have my attention too. 

Tomorrow I will officially be a Mom to 3 daughters. Crazy I know, but also so amazing!!!

Infused Water

I am on this kick of infusing my water with fruit and herbs. Being pregnant you do not always like the flavor of water.  You try not to drink juice because of the wasted calories and you cannot have a lot of soda, so I started to infuse my water and it's great!

All you have to do is add fruit, veggies and or herbs to your water. Let it seat at least 30 mins, or over night is better, and the water is naturally flavored. I use frozen fruit if I am letting it sit all day and most nights I prepare it the night before. I have done strawberries with cucumbers, mango with blueberries, oranges and cucumbers. My husband likes mint with strawberries and cucumbers. Basically you can do whatever combo you like!

Here's the idea:

Infused Water Bottle

You can purchase these online, I got mine at the grocery store on sale. There are a ton of sites that list the benefits of certain combos.

Sick of plain water than give this a try!

Feel Good Song: Coldplay - A Sky Full Of Stars

Great Song!

Choose Your Battles!

My soon to be 1 1/2 yr old doesn't like to sleep. She tosses and turns and screams and calls out for me even when I am laying in bed next to her. Being 37 weeks pregnant I want to sleep. I want to wake up feeling as refreshed as possible but being up through the night makes it impossible. Most days I wake up nauseous from lack of rest.

One morning was rough. I was up with my daughter from 1-4:00 am. So when I woke up at 6:00 I felt like I didn't get any sleep. I came downstairs and prepare to start morning. I am in rough shape and moody and crabby and asking god when will I EVER get some sleep! 

Then I found out a friend of my lost her daughter. A sweet little baby girl to cancer. It was heart breaking. A sense of guilt came over me. Here I was so angry that my little one was up all night, cuddling with me and I couldn't sleep and yet a mother was grieving the lose of her child. 

Choose your battles! Choose the things in life worth being angry about. My kids love me, are happy are healthy and want to be by my side. Sleep is overrated. I mean I can function on little sleep. I will get those hrs of sleep back one day. 

Kids grow up, life changes, nothing stays the same forever! Wake up and be grateful.  I know some days are rough, trust me I know, but we are all here for a short period of time. Let's cherish the time we have!

Bitter Sweet Feelings- 4 weeks to Go....

After dealing with my Thyroid Cancer I really thought I wouldn't have any more children. I knew my husband wanted a 3rd but I wanted to focus on being and staying healthy for the two I had so I came to terms with having two and I was sooo ok with it.

Now that I am pregnant and soon she will be here I am having bitter sweet feelings. I mean I am huge! At times I feel like my belly will pop but this is my last final no matter what pregnancy. I do not feel my body can handle another pregnancy. I will have my tubes tied when I deliver my daughter so it is a bittersweet feeling for me.

When the house is quiet and I feel the baby moving I am in awe with what a miracle it is to have a baby in my stomach. It really is an amazing, miracle that is hard to explain. You hate the growing pains, nauseous not able to physically do what you want but you love this miracle you have growing in your body. No matter what mood you are in you become happy when you feel that flutter in your belly.

It's hard too because I worry how I will split myself into three. I love my two so much and already find it hard to give them my individual quality time. Now with a third it will be even harder. I had an amazing 4 years with my first before my second came. We bonded did everything together, she is my buddy. When my second arrived I felt like she was cheated because I had to deal with my thyroid surgery and was focused on healing and treatment and numerous doctor appointments. So once I started feeling better I took advantage and spent a lot of time with her doing classes or taking her out. Now she is sharing me again!

They say as a parent your heart and love is be enough to love all your children, equally for who they are and are able to give them what each individual needs. I know baby #3 will be as great as my other two, I just want to make sure I am as good as a mother to her as I am to the others.

 

Appreciate What You Have Quote

"We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have."  Frederick Keonig