OC Family Savvy Mom

Tantrums are purposeful

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 14:38:00 GMT

"Tantrums are purposeful"…that's what I keep telling myself when Savannah decides to throw herself on the floor, scream, kick her feet and shoot looks that could kill. How does a two-year-old child have so much bent up anger? I guess tantrums are just par for the course when it comes to the "terrible twos," but as a parent, I need to know how to manage these episodes without going mental myself.

Good To Go From Head To Toeis an initiative at Pretend City Children’s Museum that offers a ton of great classes and events to help parents like me better understand their child's development. This past Tuesday I participated in the Toddler Talk series offered by Good To Go From Head To Toe. The series is FREE and being taught by the well-known Dr. Ann Corwin, a.k.a “The Parenting Doctor”. During the first class, Dr. Corwin explored why children have tantrums and it made perfect sense. Little ones take in a lot during a day and don't process things or have the communication skills of adults so they release by melting down.

I guess we all meltdown at some point right? I have personally experienced some "big-kid" meltdowns that would make Savannah's tantrums more like relaxing therapy. I myself have had my fair share of tantrums that are well-worth a “time out” (can I take wine with me to "time out"?). In any case, handling tantrums can be stressful, emotionally challenging, tiring (those reading can fill in their descriptive adjectives here). As parents, we want to teach our children lessons in a loving, positive manner and it can be hard to do so when parties involved are frustrated and fragile. Dr. Corwin provided some great advise during the Toddler Talk series…

Try to recognize a tantrum before it occurs and distract by signing a song or reading a book, dancing, kicking a ball…
Children feel connected/loved through eye contact, touching, talking. Don't discipline with a combination of these because children will do the same action again to receive the same attention.
Many sleeping problems are associated with separation anxiety. Start playing hide-n-seek with your little ones to teach the idea that even though you are not visibly there, you love them.

Take a look at the video below and check out the many valuable offerings from Good To Go From Head To Toe by visiting www.begood2go.org.

Family Fun at the OC Foodie Fest

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 16:17:00 GMT

First, I am going to give a brief update on Miss Savvy. She turned two in May and she could not be cuter. Yes, I am prejudice, but I can be, I am her mommy. I am seeing more and more of her daddy and myself everyday.

She is sassy like me, fun-loving like her daddy. She is smart like me (ok, her daddy too) and goofy like her daddy. But, since turning two, she is also tenacious and defiant…I guess this is the definition of "the terrible twos"? But, aside from my frustration with her lack for listening, she is my everything and I treasure every minute I spend with her. Since I am working full-time, I make my weekends all about Savannah, but try to make our outings and activities mom/dad-friendly too. That is where the OC Foodie Fest comes in.

If you live in the OC and have not heard about the OC Foodie Fest, you really do live under a rock. Talk about some good PR and viral marketing! Everywhere I look I see the pink truck and I love the tagline…"This is how we roll."

The OC Foodie Fest takes place this coming weekend on Sat., Aug. 28th at the Honda Center in Anaheim. This event brings together more than 50 gourmet food trucks including some like Crepes Bonaparte that have been featured on Food Network’s The Great Food Truck Race. Beyond food trucks serving up all sorts of yummy treats, there will be live local bands, DJs and dance groups. Wait, there’s more. The OC Foodie Fest has also partnered with the Patchwork Indie Art & Crafts Festival and Pretend City Children’s Museum is hosting the kid’s area. Plus, just by showing up, you are making a difference in the community. A portion of the event’s proceeds will be donated back to Child S.HA.R.E. and Pretend City. Get all the details at www.ocfoodiefest.com or www.facebook.com/OCFoodieFest.

This will definitely be a fun, family-friendly event (with a beer & wine garden) and it won’t drain the bank. Tickets are only $12 for adults, kids under 12 are $6 and little ones under three are free. Buy tickets online. Tickets are $15 at the door.

Now for the giveaway…
I have two tickets to OC Foodie Fest to give to one lucky winner. Comment on my blog and tell me what your food truck would be named, what culinary delights you would serve or sell. Be creative. I will get back to you pronto if I feel you have the most-creative and marketable idea and will pass on a code for you to print out two free tickets to OC Foodie Fest this weekend. Good luck!

Breasts, Botox or Brazilian Gloss?

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:41:00 GMT

Have you ever been to Gulf Stream on a Friday night? Javier’s at Crystal Cove even on a Tuesday? Walk a busy street in Laguna on a nice, hot summer day? These are just a few places in the OC where you can probably (pretty good bet) run into a few ladies who have had some work done. We live in the land of beautiful people with weather that encourages a little less when it comes to clothing so you just can’t help but notice (most women want you to notice) “the ladies”. This county is jam-packed with plastic surgeons and day spas which makes it easy to understand why it is also home to Allergan, the maker of top-shelf silicone gel and saline breast implant options (they are like the Patron of tequila’s) and they own BOTOX, JUVEDERM and LATISSE. I want you to play a game…Flip through any issue of Riviera, Orange Coast Magazine or Coast and see how far you get before you see an ad for:

Breast augmentation
BOTOX
Lipo

Maybe 3 or 4 pages tops.

What is my case? Well, the other night my hubby and I got in a little argument. I told him that I was thinking about getting BOTOX and that some day down the road I want some new “ladies”. Prior to Savvy I was totally content with my breast size, but after almost a year breast-feeding, they are now more like golf balls at the bottom of a sock…it’s sad. Anyway, it got a little heated. He said he loved me the way I am (which any smart husband should say if he wants to remain fed, loved and in the house) and got upset that I would think about altering my body. He did not understand why I would want to take such measures since I was already married, had a child. He did make a valid point...he was concerned that if I change who I am, what message is that to Savannah? There are enough societal pressures placed on young girls so how could her mom tell her "you don't need that" if mom has made alterations herself? I get all his points, but I also think it is funny how he turns his head when he sees a nice rack (nothing wrong boys…you all do it). I tried to explain that maybe a little skin tightening and a fuller chest would make me feel better about myself… a little sexier…a hot mom. I can’t really remember how the conversation ended. I think I told him to start making the big bucks and saving up for my boobs. Kidding…I think it made me rethink some things.

Well, I did get some altering done. I went the other day to get a Brazilian Gloss treatment on my hair. I have always wanted to try it and Rex Paxton hooked me up. Take a look at the photos…before and after (can’t believe I am posting these).

He does a great job and he is extending a great deal to my readers. Normally the procedure is $300. Rex will make your hair soft, relaxed and so super shiny for only $99 when you mention Savvy Mom. To get the $99 special, you must call and reserve an appointment by Sept. 15^th (don’t need to have the procedure done by then, just the appointment made). You can learn more about Rex, or Sir Paxton, at http://web.me.com/rexpaxton.

I also went and had a consultation for Dysport (I would call it BOTOX Light, a milder version of BOTOX and less expensive) at Bella Derma Medi Spa in Irvine. Still sleeping on it, but if I decide to go there, this would be the place. The spa offers a myriad of services ranging from laser hair removal, vein treatments, facials and peels, BOTOX and more. Gail (pretty one to the left) and the staff there have offered a special for my readers…50% off select services when you mention Savvy Mom. Call them today at (949) 552-6230. Visit www.beautybybeltran.com for a menu of services and pricing.

So, I want to hear your thoughts on the other 2 B’s….BOTOX and boobs. Have you ever thought about either? Done either? Did you tell your hubby (I guess you kinda have to tell with one of them)? Please share, I am interested.

Something savvy for the ladies

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 09:24:00 GMT

I like looking hip and up-to-date with the latest styles, but I am not willing to spend a fortune to do so (this "Savvy Mom" has to pay for childcare and that ain't cheap). I am more of a boutique shopper cause I love to find things that are different and not something that everyone else could find at Nordy's or one of the other big department stores. I also frequent boutiques cause they are smaller, more mom-and-pop like, and I like to support the small guy. But boutiques tend to carry names that run on the pricier side, so I always have to keep my eyes peeled for the best bargains and pay attention to when my favorite boutiques have sales.

About a year ago I met the loveliest ladies…Erin and April. This dynamic duo launched Boutiquing.com to bring together boutiques from around the county (and expanding beyond Orange County), providing them with a central portal where they could connect with customers like myself and promote their stores, sales, etc. The site started as more of a way for the consumer to find boutiques and Erin and April ran some great contests to help promote different shops and drive traffic to these locales during trying economic times.

Well, just recently the site has expanded to include: Sale Stalker – an e-commerce component of the site allowing users to shop more than 50 designers at 40-60% off retail prices with new items being added weekly. And the icing and sprinkles on the cake…FREE SHIPPING and a very liberal return policy. They had me at FREE SHIPPING. Plus, very cool feature, you can literally see how the pieces you may be interested look on via videos of models strutting tops, pants, skirts, etc. (kinda fun just watching these).

So, when thinking about that next dress for the party or hot accessory gift item, check out Boutiquing.com Sale Stalker.

WIN THIS SHIRT!!! Become a fan of Boutiquing.com on Facebook, share info about Sale Stalker on your Facebook profile, follow @Boutiquing on Twitter and Tweet away and comment on this blog post by telling me your favorite designer and one lucky person will win this super cute top from 3J Workshop (retail price $187). Winner will be selected on Wednesday, August 11th and I will contact you to get your selected size (S, M or L). Good Luck!

Another special perk for my readers…visit Boutiquing.com today and place your order. Enter the promo code: LAUNCH and get an additional 20% off already amazing sales prices.

Operation Vanessa

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 20:31:00 GMT

Operation Vanessa Update -
A custody hearing will be taking place in Ohio on Thursday, July 29th and Friday, July 30th to determine who gets custody of Vanessa. Stacey Doss is fighting to keep Vanessa with her and has an open case in the California Court of Appeals.
On Saturday, July 31st a garage sale will be held in Rancho Santa Margarita to raise money for Operation Vanessa. Get more information by checking out the Facebook event page.

Stacey Doss is a local Orange County mom. She is also a fellow PR pro. Recently, Doss herself has been appearing in front of the camera answering tough questions and facing emotional circumstances as they relate to the custody dispute over 2-year-old Vanessa. Stacey has pulled back all the curtains and has made what were once very personal and private matters, public information.

After more than 10 years of infertility treatments that did not prove successful, adoption attempts and a failed marriage, Stacey finally got the call she had hoped for and on June 13, 2008, Stacey flew to Ohio to meet and hold her daughter for the first time. But because of false claims on behalf of the birth mother, Stacey has been fighting a number of legal battles against the biological father and the state of Ohio.

The past two years have placed more than their fair share of emotional and financial burden on Stacey. In the latest turn of events, on July 16, 2010, Stacey was prepared to hand over Vanessa to the Ohio foster care system, but the judge in California accepted Stacey’s appeal and Vanessa has been temporarily allowed to stay with Stacey – the woman who has raised her since day one – in Orange County until the biological father responds to the appeal and the custody trial goes back to court.

This whole case makes me think of what I would do if someone were to try and take Savannah from me. For all of us parents, this is hard to imagine. What if you woke one day and had to give your child away? This is the scary reality that Stacey Doss is facing. Stacey has literally drained all of her savings and her family has helped out as much as they can to offset legal fees. Stacey is close to losing her home at this point, but still does what she can to raise enough money to fight the tough fight to keep her daughter. I am reaching out to you, my friends and family and followers, to ask that you keep Stacey and Vanessa in your thoughts and prayers. If you can help, be it monetary or just through showing your support, please do so by visiting www.operationvanessa.com. Every little gift you can give will help…maybe instead of getting that latte, help Stacey in her fight to keep Vanessa.

Thank you in advance for all your support and prayers,
Savvy Mom

Get more info on the custody case: http://www.pitchengine.com/free-release.php?id=72955

3 million and counting

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 15:01:00 GMT

My husband gets mad at me because every time we go on vacation or visit a friend who lives outside of Orange County I say I want to move. We just went to Mammoth Mountain this past 4th of July holiday weekend and I again said, "wouldn't it be great to live here?" I grew up in Marin County, just outside the wine country, or as my dad calls it…God's Country. I love the open space Marin offers…houses with a little land; great hiking trails; small, nestled communities like Mill Valley and Tiburon and much more. Every time I go home, without fail, I want to relocate (may have something to do with being closer to Savvy's Lita and Bobpa and the overwhelming number of wineries just minutes away). We went to visit some friends in Melbourne, Florida and they lived in the most beautiful, large house on a private little lake close to Cocoa Beach. I wanted to move next door (not too mention the cost of this house as compared to what you would get in the OC was just depressing). My girlfriend Christina and her husband moved to Reno. They live in a new community surrounded by beautiful mountains and an hour from great skiing in Tahoe. Yeap, wanted to move. I am sure you can see a pattern and this is why my husband never wants to go anywhere with me.

Well lately, after driving home on PCH during a most-amazing sunset and reading up on local events and unique places in Orange County, I was reaffirmed as to why 3 million plus people call Orange County home. Our county boasts more bi-peds than the entire state of Iowa and the country of Jamaica – that's right Mon.

Yes, we have crowds and deal with our fair share of traffic, but we deal with it to live surrounded by beauty, diversity and energy. I want to share my OC Top 10.

Taking in the sights and sounds of HB via cruiser
Crystal Cove State Beach and a drink at the comber
A day by the pool at Laguna Beach’s Surf & Sand Resort
If you have ever stayed here they are running a cool contest to win 2 nights free
A day at Old Man’s in San O
Walking Laguna Beach, maybe a stop at Las Brisas
Hiking El Moro Canyon
Wine tasting at Main Street Wine Cellar in Seal Beach, BRIX in Sunset Beach and Laguna Canyon Winery (yes, all in the same day would be awesome)
Voyage on the Turtle to Catalina (Ben???)
Walking Balboa Island with my main squeeze (especially around the holidays)
Running the Newport Back Bay with my favorite editor

There, those are 10 reasons why I love living in Orange County. There were many more that didn’t make the list. It really is hard to narrow it down to 10.

CONTEST: If you live in the OC, please share some of your favorite places or things to do. If you don’t live in the OC, share something special about where you live. I will send the person who shares the most-appealing place/story a 4-pack of tickets to the upcoming OC Fair! I will select the winner on July 15th so good luck!

Top picks from top pops

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 21:34:00 GMT

With Father’s Day this weekend, I decided to ask some of the coolest dad’s I know what their ideal Father’s Day would be…what they would like to do and what they would like to receive. I hope this provides some moms out there with some ideas. Happy Father’s Day to all those dads out there. And to my hubby, you are the best daddy ever and I love you tons. To my dad, I wish I was with you this Father's Day...but soon enough.

Growing up, I always got my dad something fishing related. A new rod, reel or tackle. Once I started generating my own income, I started taking my dad on fishing trips. Fishing is a shared hobby and we try to get out as often as possible. Now that I am a father, my hobbies are still the same, but my son is still a little young to share in the experiences. With Mommy's help, Jack is getting me a gift certificate for Newport Landing fishing charters. Can’t beat that.
- Scott, Jack’s daddy, Trabuco Canyon

The irony of Father’s Day is that I should want to celebrate the day by playing and doing stuff with my boys; however, I typically want a day to myself to recharge, watch some sports and generally be spoiled by my wife and boys. All that said, I do love getting hand-made items from the boys: artwork, cards, coffee cups, etc. Last year, my wife got all three of us matching Lakers championship shirts – so that was cool because we could wear it year round – a good bonding gift. This year, I am hoping for the "2010" version of the shirts. I’m also pulling for an iPad. Oh, and tickets to an Angels game that I can enjoy with the boys. That’s the combo. I love my boys. They are a blessing and, sappily, having them as my children really is the BEST gift I can get!
- Gerry, Jake and Ryan’s daddy, Aliso Viejo

I would like a GPS for my car so that I can always find my way back home as my mind continues to fail me.
- Bobby, Travis and Cody’s daddy, Canyon Country

I love going to breakfast with the kids and wife. The Bread Crumb, Sugar Shack, Ruby’s… any of those work I am not too picky. Then, if the Angels are in town, I love to head to the ballpark. The Padres are a great 2nd option.
- Greg, Alexis and Brendan’s daddy, Huntington Beach

A great gift would be a day together as a family and then a night with the wife, maybe a romantic date night minus the kid and a walk after dinner.
- Trevor, Mason’s daddy, Reno

A perfect Father’s Day would be sleeping in, followed by gifts of nice wine, cigars, Giants tickets, anything golf or BBQ related and the new iPhone 4.
- August, Gabriella and Sofia's daddy, Sonoma

My perfect Father's Day starts with sleeping in and then breakfast in bed with the family. The best gifts are the handmade cards and gifts from the kids - though I didn't complain the year I got a kegerator for Father's Day (pretty much one of my favorite gifts ever). I don’t like to go out to eat that day so we will BBQ in the backyard for dinner.
- Tim, daddy of 2, living in south OC

A perfect Father's Day would be spent with my family at the park, or anywhere outside, playing board games and reading books. A gift I would appreciate would be more time...can someone get me that??
- Kyle, daddy of 2 cute girls, living in south OC

Beach, followed by BBQ with cold beverages at the pad. That would be sweet.
- Doug, Conor and Ronan's daddy, Oceanside

I want a day spent with my family with nothing to think about but having fun together. Maybe a BBQ at the beach or park. Oh, and maybe an iPad.
- Tim, Savannah’s daddy, Huntington Beach

My ideal Father’s Day would mean being surrounded by my kids who are spread about California and one one the east coast in New Jersey. Then a little BBQ action for Bob’s Hide-a-Burgers and German chocolate cake. A gift, well, I would say maybe a 60-inch HDTV with 3D feature.
- Bob; father to Rick, Mick, Bobby, Dave and Kristin, Novato

So, what are some suggestions I have for Father's Day? Here are some cool finds I think dad would be stoked on...

Old Guys Rule John Wayne Collection...I love these shirts. The older I get, the more I like them. And, who doesn't love the Duke?
Does dad have to wear a tie to work? These are not the "standard" Father's Day gift tie...these ties make a serious statement and are all the rage. Get a tie made of sterling silver or recycled aluminum. These offer a "bling" factor for the GQ male. Check out the G-tie.
metro FOR MEN. Even the name of this place sounds interesting. metro FOR MEN is a full-service salon...more like a country club/sports bar for men. Your man can get his hair styled while sipping a nice cold beverage and taking in any of the games on their satellite TVs. For my blog readers, go into metro FOR MEN and mention Savvy Mom and get your service at 1/2 off through June 30th!
Angels game tickets. Who doesn't love baseball, beer, beer and more baseball?

Okay, those are a few suggestions. Happy Father's Day to all.
Special Father's Day prayers and thoughts to our Papa Bill and Uncle Charlie. Two amazing dads, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, friends. You will always be in our hearts, our memories and prayers.

Wish I had thought of that

Thu, 27 May 2010 13:40:00 GMT

We have all purchased a product or have come across a device and thought… "seriously, I wish I had thought of that."

Examples that come to mind…

Jay Sorensen invented the Java Jacket after he dropped a cup of hot coffee in his lap because the paper cup was too hot. Same thing goes for the Splash Sticks (little green sticks or “Coffee Lid Sip Hole Plug Stoppers” at Starbucks).
Wine charms. I can’t tell you how many times I would pick up someone else’s glass before wine charms. Now the only problem I have is remembering which charm is mine (maybe the wine charms you buy should come with temporary tattoos that correlate to your charm...hmmm??)
Flip flops with beer opener. I got my hubby a pair of these for a gift one year (great Father's Day gift idea) and these are the perfect BBQ-appropriate footwear. For us ladies, they now they have bathing suits that make opening that corona fashionable.

And for all the new mommies out there…

The Bella Band was invented by who else…a pregnant mom, Ingrid Carney. I loved these when I was prego and even after.
The Hooter Hider. First, I love the name, but the concept is so simple…a piece of trendy material to hide “the ladies” while you feed the child.
Pacifier clips…there are a ton of companies who make them. I am thinking it may have started by someone calling CPS because they saw a kid with duck tape adhered to his face.

Well recently I ran into a mom at Pretend City Children’s Museum wearing the cutest shoes and had to ask where she got them. She introduced me to Zipz. The idea for Zipz came from conversations at a family BBQ. I swear, some of my best ideas have cropped up from a BBQ or after a few glasses of wine. From here on out I am bringing a "brilliant idea" pad to all social gatherings. Check out the story behind Zipz and to see these cool shoes...

For my readers…visit www.zipzshoes.com and get 10% off your order when you use promo code: SavvyMom.

Contest for my readers: Share the invention that has changed your life. The unique product you could not live without. I will review comments and select a winner who will receive a FREE pair of Zipz (any style, your choice)!!! Contest will run from blog post date through June 4th! The more you share, the better your chances.

Savvy threads

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 11:23:00 GMT

So, my little baby, my sweet Savannah, is turning two on May 14th. I honestly have no idea how this happened. I swear just yesterday I was on maternity leave, nursing every 2-3 hours, changing diapers so small they could fit a chihuahua. Those days are long gone (still changing more than my fair share of diapers) and I am beginning to miss my itty-bitty baby. Last night, as I was reading books to Savvy before bed, I recalled how small she once was and now, she is such a big girl. She is speaking in small sentences, definitely has an opinion about things and knows how to work her mama (dad is a little tougher).

Continuing with a tradition I started when she was born, I write Savannah a letter on her birthday for her to open later (I plan on giving them all to her when she turns 18....if I can keep them safe till then). Within the letter, I include a photo of her on her birthday. The outfit she is wearing in that photo is a very important piece. I am no diva, but I do like to dress up Savvy in cute digs and I think this flair for fashion is rubbing off on her. When she picks out her own ensemble (which can be hilarious), she actually impresses me with her color coordination and choice of shoes. She loves loud shoes that make a statement.

So, this year for her birthday I reached out to my friend Feanna. Feanna started her own children’s clothing line a while back called Kait Emerson (her daughter is Kait and her son is Sean Emerson). The pieces she puts together are so unique, simple to put on the young ones and she finds the most amazing fabrics. I had Feanna make Savannah a cute little jumper combining two different fabric designs and it turned out priceless…I can’t wait for her to wear it on her birthday! This lady is seriously talented and I guess it’s no secret too…she shows her line at many shows throughout Orange County and LA and has orders lined up (I don’t think she sleeps much either cause I see late-night Facebook updates when she is burning the midnight oil to churn out orders). Please take a look at the little slideshow I put together of a recent photo shoot of Savannah in some of the outfits she made and photos of other Kait Emerson models.

Upcoming Shows Featuring Kait Emerson
Unique Los Angeles Independent Design & Gift Show April 25 & 26 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Kait Emerson will be in booth #258. www.uniqueLA.com

Patchwork Indie Arts & Crafts Festival in Santa Ana on June 6th and in Long Beach on June 27th. www.patchworkshow.com

Special for my friends, family, followers…Get 20% off all non-sale merchandise at www.kaitemerson.com. Enter code: ocfam20 when you checkout. (For my family and friends...I would, I mean Savannah would love anything from Kait Emerson, size 2T for her birthday!).

Things that make me go hmmm...

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 09:59:00 GMT

I have been questioning a lot of things lately, some mundane, some just humorous and others a bit more complicated. I really want feedback on this post and am asking you, my readers, to share the things that make you go “hmmm?”

Health-Care Reform
OK, I may be Savvy Mom, but when it comes to all the intricate details of the latest health-care legislation, I admit to being confused and negligent about doing my due-diligence to uncover the facts and do the research to know how this reform will impact my family and all Americans. So, after reading the latest in the papers and online and finding myself still a little lost (I think even some of our media partners are lost when it comes to reporting on such a huge undertaking), I went to the most respectable of outlets to get the most simple answers. Still a lot to take in, but in a more straightforward way: Health Care for Dummies.You can also check out the most recent issue of Time Magazine.

Gym Fashion
Maybe it’s 'cause I am old and married, but some of the ladies I see at the gym look like they just came from the MAC counter, had their hair styled and their breasts recently augmented (or at least the tops they wear want you to take notice of the money put there). The attire is crazy. Sometimes I feel like I’m not at the gym, but the Academy Awards of Gym Fashion. My standard attire for the gym: sports bra from Target, old tank top with a couple stains, any pair of shorts or yoga pants that are clean. What’s your take on this workout onesie? I mean, she can pull it off, but really?

Rings at the Park
I used to love these as a kid. I hate them now. They seriously hurt my hands and they are much harder than I thought (really need to focus on my upper-body workout). Maybe they were all the rage when I weighed 30 pounds, but now, no fun. I challenge you, go to the nearest park and give these a shot again. Tell me what you think of the rings now.

Love Spring. Hate Taxes?
Who’s the evil villain who decided to make property taxes due on the 12th of April and income taxes due three days later? Nothing pairs better with little baby chicks and vibrant wild flowers than forking over hard-earned cash to the man. I don’t really like “the man”.

New Year’s Resolutions
They blow. I gave up wine during the week, and I ask myself every day “why”?

Cancer
Lost another friend this week to this disease. Have had too many loved ones taken too early by this and many others forever changed by it. I know challenges make you stronger, but I don’t think this is a challenge anyone should have to face. I am sick of waiting for a cure. I know that there are teams of medical and science professionals working extremely hard to find remedies and medications, but how many people do we have to lose during this time? I also want to extend my condolences to those who have lost someone to cancer and my prayers go out to those who may be fighting this disease and the loved ones fighting with them.

Belly Buttons

To end on a lighter note, this picture makes me go “hmmm” and at the same time makes me smile from ear to ear. I can hear Savannah asking her cousin Sia, “Do you have a button? I have a button.” What Savvy is contemplating is...what does the button do?

Dance like no one is watching (or don't)

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:09:00 GMT

It was a normal weekday morning. After the usual routine: wake-up, 3-minute shower before Savannah wakes up, change Savannah, walk the dog, prepare breakfast for Savannah, feed the dog, pack Savannah’s trinkets for the day, get myself dressed and somewhat presentable and get us both out the door. This would be a good day, but most everyday there is a hick-up or two in the routine that throws the both of us off. This happened to be one of those days. Savannah just wasn’t a happy camper (I have never understood this saying – what’s there to be “happy” about when sleeping on the ground in the woods surrounded by creatures of the night)? Anyway, we finally got in the car (only 10 minutes late) to go to Berlyn’s house (she is the angel I have written about in past blogs who watches Miss Savannah) and the mood had not changed.

Now, I don’t care what anyone says, there is NOTHING worse than being stuck in a car with an irritated child. Seriously, no fun. So, I will do just about anything to make Savannah happy while in the car. On this certain day, it meant having a little dance party. So, I put on the gym mix and Ke$ha came on and we rocked out…the two of us with hands up signing loud and proud. I had probably gone about 5 miles when I pulled up to a stop light and next to me was Huntington Beach’s finest (cutest cops ever!). The officer asked me to roll down my window. My heart was racing and I was trying to think back to what I did…was I speeding, did I run a light, did I use my phone without my Bluetooth? I turned down the music a few octaves and rolled down the window (Savannah meanwhile is still rocking out in the backseat). The conversation went something like this…

HBPD: Mam, we have been following you from Warner and PCH.
Scared Mom: Uh huh.
HBPD: Do you know what you did?
Scared Mom: Not really.
HBPD: You gave us the best show we have seen in months (laughter).
Not so scared but more embarrassed Mom: OMG. Well, when you have an upset toddler in the backseat, you will do just about anything to get them to calm down and be happy. Does that make sense?
HBPD: Totally. I have a 2-year-old. Just please try to keep at least one hand on the wheel while rocking out.

Then the light turned green and my friends in blue were on their way and so was I, just with the music lowered and both hands on the wheel.

I wish I had documentation of this whole experience...video, photos, something, but I just have my memories and the HBPD have theirs. I have provided a little video of Miss Savvy rocking out to give you an idea of her moves.

What do you do in the car to entertain your kids? Any toys/games you think work really well to keep kids engaged while on long roadtrips? Anyone have dance parties in the car (if you do, take it from me, practice safe dancing)? Anyone have a similar story of being pulled over cause you were trying to entertain the little ones? Please share…I am truly hoping I am not alone.

Growing old gracefully and dealing with the lines

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 18:37:00 GMT

It was Friday night and I was in bed early. I set the alarm for 5 a.m. Tim and I knew we had to be up early to get a good spot in line. Tim left before the sun rose. I later met to relieve him. It was close to 9 a.m. when the line started moving and Savannah and I were able to turn in our registration form at the local preschool. Yes, just like many universities, our local preschool is impacted. With a slight drizzle intermixed with a little sunshine, moms and dads lined up to get placed on a waiting list. The whole experience made me think back to the many lines I have waited in throughout my lifetime and how these lines become more age-appropriate as time passes.

The Early Years
In elementary school, after getting the call that the shipment had arrived, I remember waiting in a long line with my mom at Toys-R-Us to get my first Cabbage Patch Kid. While the line was long and my patience tested, I was excited the whole time and when I got my hands on Collette Bennett (that was the name on her papers), I was ecstatic!

In high school, I recall ditching classes (okay mom and dad, now you know…only 15 years later) to go wait in line at Tower Records to get Rolling Stones concert tickets. It was a lottery system and well worth every minute. I met some unique individuals and the concert at the Oakland Coliseum was phenomenal.

In college, the lines were mainly for bars and nightclubs. But I have to say I ran with a cute crowd and the lines (if any) went quickly and the memories I do have (while some are blurry) are priceless.

The Middle Years
And now, I am waiting in lines for flu shots and to get my kid into a good preschool. Pretty exciting stuff. Wow, times have seriously changed or should I say, lines have changed. Now I find a different metaphoric message in “the fine lines of aging.” What lines will I find myself standing in down the road? What lines have you waited in for your kids? Please share...I am sure there are some funny stories out there.

A craving for crafts

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 16:50:00 GMT

If I had all the free time in the world or maybe just a few days all by my lonesome without the distractions of work, e-mail, phone, Twitter, Facebook, etc., I would love to just create. I have always loved to make things myself. Not sure when this started. I remember when I was in like junior high and high school I made jewelry (still have a stash of beads). Later I moved to painted tile message boards and recycling wine corks for corkboards. When I found out I was pregnant with Savannah, all my crafty projects centered around the little one inside. This is when I really took to sewing. I had sewn a few times before -- making duvet covers and blankets (basically anything square that did not require a pattern), but maybe it was the nesting instinct and hormone imbalance that made me go above and beyond.

The search for bedding for the baby room made me sick. Tim and I didn’t find out the sex, so bedding and decor had to remain gender-neutral and I just really wasn’t so into ducks, teddy bears and frogs. I had a vision and I was going to see to it that that vision came true. So, I pulled out the sewing machine and made Savannah’s bedding (the bumpers with removable pillows for washing, the crib skirt and the matching blanket). And they look darn good if I must say so myself and have lasted longer than I thought they would. Then Savannah came. She consumed me and still does. My free time was spent sleeping. My projects were put on the back burner. And when I went back to work, I could almost hear the sewing machine cry a little bit as I placed it in the garage for safe-keeping.

I still do some creative projects every now and then. I have made Savannah’s Halloween costumes. I made her dress for her 1st birthday. And recently I have been creating little movies featuring Savannah and gifting these DVDs to family and friends. Love iMovie.

Since I don’t have as much time to devote to projects as I would like, I just tell my sister-in-law Melanie what I am thinking and she churns out the goods. This sista is talented!
She recently made Savannah a board to grow on that turned out so amazing! I plan to put Savannah’s footprint on it each year and track her growth (we’ll see how into this she is when she is 16). She also made a super cute sign that hangs in her beach-theme room that reads, “She sells seashells by the seashore.”

Basically, she can customize and make anything you can think of. These signs are the perfect gift for that new couple’s home, to welcome that new bundle of joy, as a house-warming gift or just to add that special touch to a room in the house or office.

Check out the sites below and as a special for my readers…mention Savvy Mom and when you buy one, you get another half off. Need to place order by e-mailing signsoflove@cox.net to take advantage of this offer.
www.createsignsoflove.com
www.etsy.com/shop/createsignsoflove

What talents do you have? What projects are you currently working on? And if you are interested in a box of beads, let me know…my jewelry days are long over!

Valentine's gift tips for the men folk

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 10:40:00 GMT

I am writing this post for all those significant others out there who have no clue what to get that special someone in their lives this Valentine’s Day (Tim, this includes you and Valentine’s Day is this Sunday). Now, I am going to be totally upfront and honest. I have never been crazy about Valentine’s Day for the whole reason that all the “staple” gift items are not only unoriginal, but way overpriced on this one day. Tim one year got me all the “staple” items in a very fun and inexpensive way, which I was more than okay with and it still makes me laugh. He got the flowers and a card (a 2-fer considering the dozen roses was the picture on the card), candy (sour patch kids), jewelry (a candy ring) and a stuffed animal (small bear clasping a heart). I have always told him no roses on Valentine’s Day, get them the day after and save $50 (plus I really prefer orchids). Not too sound like a total grinch on Christmas, but I also hate going to a restaurant on Valentine’s Day. The PDA is obnoxious, the service stinks and again, you pay $45 for a bottle of wine you can get at Trader Joes for $7. So, with all that being said…here are some gift/date suggestions for a great Valentine’s Day. And to all the men reading (yes, you too Tim), the bolded red items pretty much guarantee a roll in the hay. I have provided some mood music too...

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Pampering treatments
I recently went to the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa and got a small taste of all the services Pacific Waters Spa has to offer. You can’t go wrong with anything here! Go with the Double Up Couples Massage and then soak in the couples tub. And, if you can’t ditch the kids, the hotel is offering a Romancing the Family Package featuring complimentary Camp Hyatt for up to 2 kids , 20 percent off dinner at the Californian, 20 percent off in the spa, Champagne for mom and dad and cookies and milk for the kids. Price is $295 including room/tax/resort fee/parking and is valid through March 7th. Get more details at HB Hyatt.
If you don’t want to go that big, a nice massage, facial or even manicure/pedicure package would do.

Anything that comes in a little blue bag.
Nothing else needs to be said.

Wine tasting excursion
It doesn’t have to be a crazy trip to Napa or Sonoma (although this would DEFINITELY seal the deal), there are some great local places to go wine tasting. Make a date out of it. Hi-Time Wine Cellar even has some great tasting events specific to Valentine’s Day: www.hitimewine.net/winebar.asp
http://www.winestylesstore.com/
http://www.cdmwinegallery.com/
http://www.lagunacanyonwinery.com/
http://winelabnewport.com/

Mobile dinner and a movie
This is one of my personal favs. Tim and I have done this pretty much every Valentine’s Day and it is super fun. Pick up dinner from your favorite restaurant (we are big Wahoo’s fans), grab a nice bottle of wine and a movie. Pack some cozy blankets, pillows, wine glasses and laptop or portable DVD player and find a romantic place to take in the sights. (Recommend not parking in someone's personal residence).

Lingerie
Okay, this is totally a personal preference, but I am not into the super-sultry lace and bustier-type attire. Some of these ensembles look like you need directions to put them on. I would prefer a nice, soft tank and boy shorts myself. This set is from Victoria’s Secret and is only $29!

Kindle or iPad chock full of sappy romance novels
These are pretty darn cool (despite the name that Apple chose…I mean, couldn’t they have gone with iTab or something a little less related to a feminine product?). I love the fact that you can click on a word you don’t know the meaning of and it tells you on the spot. Put a few popular love stories (Nicholas Sparks) on there and you and your loved one can peruse a romantic novel together.

Magazine subscription
The magazine industry is hurting, but you can help. I love the mags I get…WIRED, Self, Shape. These are all great gift ideas because they just keep on giving and the receiver thinks of the giver each time he or she gets her monthly issue. Plus, a lot of mags offer specials for subscribers like 2-for-1 subscriptions (so you can give the gift to two significant others…shhh, secret is safe with me). Some good ones for Valentine’s Day: Food & Wine, Wine Enthusiast, Self. http://www.magsdirect.com/

Valentine no-nos
Vermont Teddy Bears or any teddy bear or stuffed animal with a heart for that matter. PajamaGrams (who buys these?). Large boxes of chocolate. Gym membership (probably not the way to say I love you).

Anyway, I hope this gives some of you lost soles out there some ideas and to my hubby...you better not say I didn’t give you any ideas.

And the votes have been tallied

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 09:38:00 GMT

This is a short and sweet posting. Flew back from the city by the bay yesterday with Savannah. The two of us went back to my old stomping grounds (good ol’ slowvato…Novato in Marin County) to visit Lita and Bobpa and celebrate my 23rd birthday. Okay, I may have turned 23 for like the X time (I am not giving it away), but age is only a number and I feel super young (I attribute this to the combo of consistent exercise and good wine)!

So, this post is really to announce my new title. What was really cool is that 116 people voted!!! Thank you!!! Drum roll please… The winner with 46 votes is Savvy Mom. Followed by Marathon Mom with 41 votes and Fine Wine Mom with 29.

I LOVE my new title and think Savannah will be fond of it as well.

Take a look at my little Miss Savvy flaunting the latest in fashion accessories and posing for the camera. She’s so stinkin’ cute.

Searching for a new title

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:00:00 GMT

So, Savannah is 20 months now. She will be two in May. And as much I still consider myself a “new mom” since Savannah is my first child and I learn something new as a parent each and every day, I have begun to question my current title and think it may be time for a change. I guess I am asking for a promotion. I am ready to pass on the rank of “new mom” and take on a more distinguished and qualified title (knowing good and well that the responsibilities will become greater and the challenges more daunting but the rewards make it all worth while).

So, with a little help from my fellow mom-bloggers and friends, I have come up with a few of my own ideas for titles. The proposed titles are up for vote and if you have a suggestion you think would fit me better, please share. If I choose a title you suggest, you will be overly praised and rightly accredited when I announce my new title. So, here are my suggestions…

Marathon Mom
This one has a little to do with my resolution to run a 1/2 marathon this year, but more to do with how I feel just about each and every day. My husband opened his own State Farm office just last month and so the "course" has become even a little more challenging. With Tim out the door fairly early each day, I juggle getting Savannah and myself ready in the morning before I head to work. If I can get out of the house 10 minutes late not forgetting Savannah's lunch or bottle, it is a good start to the day. After work I have to get home, bundle up Savannah and get out to walk the dog before making dinner, bath time and then after a few books, bedtime…and that goes for both of us. The juggling is exhausting and just like when I go out for a run, my goal each day is to cross the finish line. But also like my runs, I can’t wait to do it again.

Fine Wine Mom
Sometimes I wonder why I made one of my new year's resolutions to give up wine during the week. What was I thinking? There are huge benefits to drinking wine including:

Wine takes the edge off and calms the nerves
Wine thins the blood and lowers cholesterol
Wine lowers the risk of heart disease
Wine prevents molecules known as "free radicals" from causing cellular damage in the body

Plus, wine tastes really, really good. And this is where my problem lied. It tastes so good that I could easily drink a glass or two or three every night and that is no bueno on the pocketbook or the waistline. But, I know a lot about good wine and would love to share some of my favorites with you in future blogs because many moms can agree; nothing beats a nice glass of wine at the end of the day.

Savvy Mom
Okay, this title combines my love for my little Savvy (Savannah's nick-name) and love for fashion. While I am not always sporting the latest designer jeans or handbag (childcare is expensive people), I try to keep up with the trends and I do the same with Savvy. You should see her closet. That girl is so fashion-forward (special thanks to Berlyn, Teri and Diana for the designer duds).

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Savannah's first tornado

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 16:30:00 GMT

As I write this, I am in bed listening to the torrential downpour outside my window. My 100-pound mastiff-lab, Buddy, is curled up next to the bed (he normally sleeps on his own bed in the living room, but when it comes to extreme weather and loud noises, he is a total baby). For as long as I have lived in Orange County, I can’t remember such rains and intense winds. I mean, the National Weather Service has issued tornado warnings. Tornadoes! The advisory states that the safest place to be during a tornado is in a basement. Not too many homes in O.C. with basements, but those residents who do have them may be able to make a pretty dime in the next few days (I am going to start searching Craigslist for local basement-sharing opportunities).

Southern California in general is just not prepared for weather like this. Rain in itself is such a rarity that otherwise experienced drivers revert to 15-year-olds who just got their permits and are brake-happy. Gutters that probably have a capacity to hold a good 2 inches of rain become blocked and whole neighborhoods flood. I see people running frantically into their local Starbucks wearing flip-flops (wait, that was me). My family in Minnesota and brother in New Jersey are probably rolling with laughter – I'm sure our three days of rain are nothing compared to their months of heavy snow and blizzards.

Don’t get me wrong, I like a little rain every once in a while, but really, I live in Orange County for the 362 days of sunshine per year (give or take). I love to be outdoors, so this type of weather puts a little damper on my mood, and I think Savannah senses this and also gets a little case of condo fever. (I would call it cabin fever, but we live in a condo, and I would rather be in a cabin watching the snow dump and being first on the mountain.)

With that, do any of you have any suggestions for some rainy-day activities? Any ideas for fun games or crafty projects when you can’t go outside? Please share and stay safe: It is forecasted to get worse over the next couple days.

CBS2 Tornado documentation
Weather forecast

Have you kept to your New Year’s resolution?

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 13:05:00 GMT

So, I have been pretty darn diligent when it comes to my New Year’s resolutions. This year I really put some thought into my goals and also took some sound advice – think small change, not huge, global change. It is much easier to take baby steps and complete the climb than commit to running full-steam to the top. So, here were my small baby steps (resolutions) for 2010:

Give up wine during the week (my weekend officially starts on Thursday night)
Train consistently and run my first half marathon in 2010
Accept the things I cannot change or control (more of a personal conflict I need to work on)

Anyway, here is my progress report:

I have been very good about giving up my one, major vice during the week – wine. It has been hard, but I have filled the void with straight, hard moonshine. Kidding. This resolution is not only good on the liver, but also helps save some money. Plus, I really enjoy the bottles, I mean glasses, I consume on the weekend. It is only the second week of January, so we’ll see how long I last.
I am really enjoying my runs. I have never been a big fan of running, but lately I look forward to hitting the pavement for a good workout. I think it may have something to do with just being by myself, just me and my tunes (or bad music my husband calls it), leaving all other cares in the dust. I have gotten up to close to 10 miles now and just the other day sent in my registration for the O.C. Half Marathon in May.
OK, this is the hardest one. I really need to work on accepting the things I cannot change or control. I have a lot on my plate in the coming months, especially with my husband opening his own business last month. This year may be a challenge, but I need to go into it with a positive attitude and accept what comes at me. Challenge makes us stronger and learning to just go with the flow will help me maintain sanity.

So, where are you at with your New Year’s resolutions? And, as parents, do any of you ask your kids to make resolutions? Savannah is a bit too young to understand giving something up just yet. I am working with her on giving up eating crayons. But, for those of you with older children, can you share some of their past resolutions or maybe just ask them this: If they had to give something up in 2010, what would it be? I bet you will get some funny answers.

Good luck to all of you who are trying to stick to your resolutions. Some are harder than others. Just keep telling yourself,
“I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and doggone it, people like me."

Stockings are hung and this mom is done

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 15:27:00 GMT

Christmas is just two days away, and I am feeling good. I am done. No more last-minute shopping trips, parking-lot battles and long lines. Just thinking of hitting up Target makes me feel anxious and a little sick to my stomach (the sick to my stomach thing could also be attributed to the cookies I had for breakfast this morning. The kitchen at work is a death trap, I tell you). I am really excited for Christmas this year. At 19 months, Savannah is in awe of the lights, the tree, the presents: She truly is as excited as a kid at Christmas. Just seeing the joy she has makes me all giddy inside too. We visited Santa the other day, and while she was a little curious as to why she got thrown into a stranger’s lap, she was accepting of the whole thing. I got some great photos (her niece on the other hand was a little more apprehensive). Her favorite three words now are “Ho, ho, ho.”

I also have to applaud myself for not going overboard. Savannah has one present to open on Christmas Eve – the classic novel, "The Night Before Christmas" – and a couple small gifts from Santa (even Santa and the elves have felt the strain of this turbulent economy). Seeing how much she loves empty boxes and ribbon, I really could have done less and she would be just as happy!

So now, I get to sit back and relax. I get some time off from work to just BE. I get to play with Savannah and enjoy good times with family and friends. From my family to yours, wishing you all a most happy and safe holiday.

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Hurts my heart

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 10:55:00 GMT

This morning at the gym (so proud of myself for actually getting out of a warm, cozy bed to visit my old friend the gym at 5:30 a.m.) I opened the paper (yes, the paper) to read of the tragic case of the two young girls whose lives were taken way too early. This was a local San Clemente family. Before I read this, I was planning to blog about something more humorous, but I couldn’t shake the hurt and confusion about how anyone could do something like this. These two little girls were so beautiful, innocent and loving…just at the beginning of their lives.

They were like the daughters or sons we all have. The youngest was just months older than my Savannah. I really just needed to get the feelings of disgust, anger, disappointment and sadness off my chest. Children are not meant to experience harm. As parents we should do all we can to keep them safe and show them love. Please share how you feel.

Full story: ocregister.com/news/-224561--.html?

To conclude, I want to apologize to my little Savannah who had to face a little pain this morning. We both got our H1N1 shots today. She was not entirely happy about it, but the cheese crackers seemed to make her smile. I love you Savannah Layne.

Below, Savannah with her bestest friend, Buddy.