Trendy Tuesday - Lucky # 3

Can it possibly be time for another Trendy Tuesday? Hard to believe, but yes, my bloggity friends - here we are at Tuesday once again.

I received just one question this past week pertaining to fashion. Come on friends and neighbors, send in more questions, it makes writing this, oh... just a tad bit easier!

To the question in a moment, but first, a tribute to the SAG Award fashions. This is the only red carpet we have had this year, thanks to the writer's strike, and although I did miss the entire show, I have watched the ET wrap up and found these stars to have been declared the best and the worst of the red carpet.

Let's gander at them shall we...

The Worst

The Best

Whew --- glad that is over -- hey - did you catch that crayola blue crayon color that seemed to be everywhere --- toldya!
Now without further ado... here is our QOTW (aka- Question Of The Week)

How do we dress for our body shapes? Am I an apple, a pear or just plain BANANAS? There is cute stuff in the store, but when I try it on - it just looks silly. HELP! Signed:Scrub-wearing Mama

Dear Scrubwearing Mama, I have scoured the web for you to find some links to help determine your shape. I struggle with this as well - I think we all do. The one good thing about the new fashion trends - they are all billowy and soft flowing. I guess we have the hipees and bra burners of the seventies to thank for this trend. Once you find your body type - embrace it and then go and spend some time in a store-do what you are doing, experiment with different shapes and fabrics. The styles all seem to be very figure forgiving and also can definitely enhance other areas as well.

For pear shapes, you might try a cute top like this, which will enhance a smaller waist and yet will "flow" over the less appealing hip area. Be sure to keep colors light and patterns small on top. Pants with a bit of a flare at the bottom will also help to give you a straight line - thus narrowing the wider bottom area. Also avoid wearing lighter color pants, go with darker ones if and when at all possible. If wearing a dress, I would suggest also the empire waisted or wrap dress as these will also help the material to "flow" over the least attractive figure part of your shape. Keeping hose neutral and using a neutral shoe will help to elongate the body line as well.

For apple shapes, try a top this this, with a v-neck or scoop neckline. This will help soften the rounder "top" area. Try and avoid turtlenecks and heavy sweaters if at all possible. Instead go with a layered look, a camisole or t-shirt with a light sweater (v-neck) over the top. Chose fabrics that skim the body, but do not cling. Choose skirts that have an a-line design, this will help create a waist where you may be lacking. Be sure your pants are not pleated, but side pockets can help disguise a "tummy" if that is your problem area. Choose dresses or suits, rather than one piece. Don't forget to have things tailored, if one area is too loose. Having a tailor take a tuck here and there, will help to define your waist line, and keep hems a little above the knee to show off and lengthen your leg line.

Here is a great link to help make optimize your fashion flair

Well, fashion friends, that is Trendy Tuesday for this week. I really hope you send in some questions for me for next week's installment. I am benefiting from it all as well.

Happy, Happy!

Beverly

Pots, Pans, Pizza and a Rat called Remy!Oh and Throw in a Little Fanny Price too!

Well, Monday has rolled around, which means that the weekend is finally over. Ours was not exciting - far from it. With the hubby working nights, munchkin and I settled in for a rather nothing exciting to blog about weekend. After the past week, that was a welcome relief.

Friday night I was treated to a child-free get together with my neighbor and a Taste of Home Entertaining Party -- now, that was fun. Sitting with a group of gals, hashing about life, hubbys and children and fantasizing over beautiful, Italian inspired pieces of cookware, serving ware and garden items for the kitchen and home, now, ya'll know I was in heaven. It was great fun and I love the pieces I was able to purchase. My munchkin was in grandparent heaven and so, Friday was a pleasant evening for everyone.

Saturday night as hubby left for work, munchkin announced she wanted pizza for dinner. Not having pizza, and because we live in the boonies ... I mean a "little" further out and no pizza can be delivered, I came up with a genius - a GENIUS - plan! I took bread, spread a little pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese on top and toasted it. It was pure delight to my sweet girl! I became even more of a supermommy when I suggested that we watch "Ratatouille" on the big tv, while eating our supper on the couch. You would have thought I had given her the moon on a silver platter. So, we had a girl's night in and although it was not exciting - unless you call watch a rat become a gourmet cook for a restaurant in Paris exciting, it was fun. Just me and my girl.

Sunday of course were the usual church activities and our usual Sunday lunch at the Mexican restaurant with MeMa and Papa and then - NO NAP for munchkin. Yes, I said NO NAP!

Because the sweet darling didn't get nap - my baby fell asleep at 7:30 and I was left alone with the television and a long night ahead of me.

Can I just say something right here and now -- PLEASE END THE WRITER'S STRIKE! Please Hollywood - just pay them - they deserve it - and WE NEED THEM BACK!

There was nothing on television last night. I guess, that is a bit of an over exaggeration, but really, I was reduced to watching Masterpiece Theatre -- YES, Masterpiece Theatre - dum, dum, dum, dum, dum, dum, dum,de dum, de dum...hum along with me!

It was at least something to be half-way interested in- although I am glad my husband was at work, he would have fallen out from the boredom - but I was a bit entertained at Mansfield Park, the adaption of Jane Austen's novel by the same name. It wasn't bad and thankfully only lasted an hour and a half, but it made me sad for all the shows I could have watched and all the shows that are not on because of the writer's strike -- END IT NOW! Have mercy on us!

I did find out this morning that the SAG awards were on - and I did forget that I had a few episodes left to watch of The Tudor's on DVD - so I was even more upset by the tv this morning.

So, we had a weekend - that was about it. Oh - and my mean spirited commenter has "made-up" in his own way, all is well once again in my bloggity blog land!

Happy, Happy, Bloggity Land Peeps!
Beverly

They Say It's Your Birthday!

Happy 40th to my dear hubby!

A Programming Note from the Staff at BevMama Happy Moments!!

Just a note: This is a personal blog - I document my life, my feelings and the happenings in my world. Sometimes it is lots of happy moments, sometimes there are sad or hurtful moments that I try to work through to find a happy moment. It is a process.

If you would like to leave a comment, please do so; however please note that I will no longer accept anonymous comments and all comments will be moderated before posting. It is unfortunate that I have had to take this step, but I refuse to have someone insult me on my own blog. So far this concerns only one reader, so the rest of you please disregard.

I am so disappointed that I have had to begin to monitor this blog and now I feel as if I have to censor my writing and true feelings. I have a great time writing here, I love how it affects, you, my readers, and I really do enjoy your comments. There is never an intent to hurt or injure anyone through this medium, and if that has ever happened, it was definitely regrettable and I hope will be forgiven. It is strictly a format to hone my writing skills, journal my life and reach out to friends, family and the frequent stranger friend that might stop in and read. It has the added benefit of being a type of therapy for me when events cause me pain or grief.

To my "anonymous" commenter this morning, I am sorry you felt the need to strike out - please know that I am aware of who you are - I have a reader on my site that tells me so "anonymity" is not really true in the comment section. You are forgiven, but in the future, please try and leave constructive remarks, or none at all. And please sign in and "own" your comments - it is the polite thing to do.

Happy, Happy
Beverly

Take You Back Thursday # 2

A Six Million Dollar Man, A Cake and A Knight in Shining Armor Gone too Soon?

Answer: Who are three Heaths I have loved.

Heath Barkley

Heath Bar

Heath Ledger

As a young girl, I loved, LOVED the show Big Valley. I am old, so some of you may never have heard of it - but look it up, get it on DVD, whatever, it is good. I had a mad crush (or as mad a crush as you can have at 5 or 6) on Heath Barkley. He was the younger son on the show and he was played by the actor Lee Majors. Yes, there was a career before the Six Million Dollar Man, folks. He was the hearthrob of my elementary school days - I loved him.

As a teenager, I loved the candy Heath Bar. Bits of toffee, caramel, covered in chocolate. Who wouldn't like it, you would be crazy not to. As an adult, a young wife, I discovered this recipe. Lordy bee - this is worth the trouble. Again, chocolate, caramel, good gravy train - what is not to love.

And now, the last in my favorite Heaths. I first saw him in The Patriot, playing Mel Gibson's son. Then The Order, where he played a priest in Rome, Italy (now who wouldn't love that - Italy and Heath Ledger!) There were several other movies, The Knight's Tale and Casanova that were worth my time. Of course I didn't see the latest controversial movie he was known for - I don't think he was a hero, and some of his choices in life would not be mine and do not line up with my value system, but I still loved his acting. I am too old for crushes on movie stars, but he always ranked up high on a list of actors whose movies I usually wanted to see, just because he was in them. I am incredibly sad for his loss. Sad for his family and friends, seeing them have to grieve in the public eye is heartbreaking. Gone to soon, for no good reason apparently. Sadder than sad, bluer than blue am I.

So, there you have it - three Heaths I have loved. By the way, I have always loved the name and it was always on my list of baby names - always. It is still on my list for names if we ever get another yellow dog. Heath - I like it!

You Gotta Keep Up!

Well, if you haven't checked in with our family in the last few days, you have missed some big changes.

My Hannah got a really cute bob haircut! She is cute and sassy and so is the hair. Her thin and fine hair has always been some source of contention for me - always struggling to keep it in a barrette or ribbon, out of her eyes, etc. That is long gone now. She can swish her head a multitude of ways and it falls right back into place. It could hold a ribbon on a Sunday morning, if we so desire, but it holds its own and looks cute now, no matter what!

Our second big news also concerns our sweet munchkin. Through several happenstances, or as I like to say, God intervening opportunities, we have been given the privilege of having Hannah attend one of the premier Mother's Day Out/Preschool programs in our city. I was fortunate to have worked for the church that sponsors this program before Hannah was born, I made an inquiry of my friend who is the director and that led to Hannah being able to enroll in the program, even at this late date in the year. My orginial call was to inquire about next year's four year old program - so it was a surprise and a special gift from God to this somewhat exhausted mommy and our very active, very spirited little girl for her to be able to attend the three year program now.

She starts in February, attending two mornings a week. We went today and registered and she was given a tour by the director. To say she is excited, is an unbelievable understatement. She is so excited to go to "school" that we had to rush out and buy a lunchbox! For those of you just dying to know - it is a ladybug lunchbox with a Dora ice pack! The ultimate in toddler style and fashion!

So, if you haven't checked in with us - you are now caught up on all of our news! I know, the excitement has probably drained you - go, have a nap and check back with us another time.

Happy, Happy!
Beverly

Wordless Wednesday

Silly, Silly, Silly!

So Sad

I just heard that Heath Ledger is dead. He was a young actor, just 29 years old, and a father to a 2 1/2 year old girl. It is just so sad to me that someone with such promise is now dead.

I didn't subscribe to his lifestyle or some of his movie role choices, but I did enjoy some of his movies such as The Patriot and The Order and A Knight's Tale, The Brothers Grimm and Casanova. So sad to think he is gone. Even sadder to think it might be a suicide or drug related death.

I am just so sad.

Trendy Tuesday - 2nd Edition

Welcome to Trendy Tuesday! This is our second week exploring the trends for us mommies and how we can feel more "hip"

I wanted to discuss other ideas rather than clothes today, such as makeup and hair. Two of my favorite subjects.

About a year ago, a close friend introduced me to mineral makeup. Now, I am a child of the eighties, my only makeup friend and constant companion up to that time had been liquid foundation. Whether it clogged my pores or not, I loved it. I have used it faithfully. That is until I was introduced to the miracle that is mineral makeup. If you have not tried it, please I beg of you to at least try it once. There are so many options out there - my favorite is L'Oreal. It feels great, goes on great and lasts all day. The coverage is awesome and not heavy like a liquid. Believe me, if you are a liquid foundation gal, you will like this.

The hair style of the moment is of course The Bob! We know this, all the celebrities are getting one, I have a modified one and yes, it works on my curly hair. I straighten my hair with a straight iron ( A MUST FOR EVERYONE!!!) and for the most part, I am happy with my hair for the first time in my life. My friend with long hair since high school recently bobbed her hair and she looks great. It took years off her - an added bonus for those of us stay at home mommies who want a "lift" in our looks. Also, if you have gray hair - color it! It is worth it, you will feel better and look younger. Find a stylist that understands color and pay the extra money for it. Your family will appreciate the extra effort you are making. It will help you - I promise.

And speaking of bobs - I wouldn't be a good mommy if I didn't share this picture with you all. My youngun received a bob today - and I love it. She doesn't really care - but I do. Her hair is thin and fine and when it is long it just lays limp and stringy. This cut fits her personality and thankfully for this mommy who is having a hard time watching her grow up - I think it makes her look a little younger.

Well, that 's it for Trendy Tuesday this week. I hope you email me some questions, that would help me in directing my article next Tuesday.

Fashionably Happy,

Beverly

1984 - Where was Big Brother When I Needed Him?

Yesterday as I tried to maneuver my way in the new traffic that seems to have invaded my town, I found myself sitting in a lane of traffic for about twenty minutes. During that time, I was privileged to listen some great music of the eighties, such a Journey and Boston and I think there was even some MC Hammer and Hammertime going on. As I sat, patiently - ha, in the line of ever so slowing moving vehicles,I found myself wishing really hard that I was in the Back to The Future Delorean and I could push the button and swish, be sent back in time to January 18,1984. Not only would this eliminate the traffic situation I was in, (that the particular area of town would be so underdeveloped that it would actually be a glade of trees) but I could re-do some events in my life that started out quite nice but ended up in lots of pain and disappointment.

Now, honestly, there are so many things in my life that would not be the same if I could go back, and quite frankly, I do not wish to lose the people and things (and good hair!!) I have collected through these past twenty-four years. But there are a few things that jump out at me when I think of that time in my life and what I would change.


First of all, let me take you back to January, 1984. I was a senior in high school - with enough credits to have graduated early; however, I chose to stay in and enjoy my last bit of high school, taking mostly electives and having a grand old time. In January , 1984 I was a single gal, having just broken up with a boy (and that would be Watermelon Boy, for those of you that are long time readers) and in the midst of a WILD crush on another young man - commonly known as Mask boy to you. I was free. I was not tied to a boy. I had my whole life in front of me. That is the girl I want to go back and chat with. I still see her, every now and then, she shows up in my eyes in the mirror. She was skinny, but thought herself overweight. She was pretty, and yet thought herself the ugly duckling of her group of friends. She loved soap operas and began to think her life needed to be one for her to be happy. She was loved by her parents and close friends, yet, she thought she needed to be loved by only one person in order to be worthwhile.
She had goals and aspirations,but she really didn't know how to dream for herself. She thought her dreams needed to be tied to another person in order for her happiness to be fulfilled.

January, 1984 - I want to go back there. I want to stop myself from being so crazy about a guy, who ultimately would be the one person who has hurt me most in my life. I want to go back and be glad that he was dating someone else, not work hard to get her to break up with him so I could have what was left. I want the phone call that came a week before my dad's 50th birthday party to go unanswered. I want to have had the strength to say no to a date, to have stayed home for the party, to never have gone on that fateful hayride. It sounds dark and mysterious, like something traumatic happened. It didn't, but what followed was a two year relationship, filled with lots of good memories and even more bad. A lifetime of having to learn to trust people again, of re-dreaming my childhood dreams and having to create new ones and new hopes for the future. Two years that has stretched through all this time. Hurt that could have been avoided, should never have been mine to carry. I want to go back and talk to the seventeen year old girl.

The only thing about this type of wish is that I know that the seventeen year old girl would never have listened. She didn't listen to her family and friends then, and I know that this forty+ year old version of herself wouldn't have made a difference either. She was in love - or so she thought, for the first time and there was no reasoning with her.

So, yes, there are times that I sit in my car, hear a song and think about my past. There are times that I write about it on this blog. It seems as if it comes up a lot, truthfully, it has come up a lot lately. I still hear from the two old beaus in this story - sometimes more frequently than I would really like. I guess more than anything, I want to examine my life, the way I grew up, what I thought, how I developed my thought processes as a teen and young adult and learn from it all. As a mom, all I want to do is steer my daughter in the right direction, to see her go down a path that is the best one for her, the one that God would have her follow. I want to shield her from some of my mistakes, bad decisions and misplaced confidence. It is a tall order. I know that it is impossible. I know that pain and heartbreak and disappointment all meld together with happiness and joy in this life and there is no shield that can bounce it away. I think of all the heartbreak others have caused me and I have helped to cause myself and it only makes me value the happiness and love I have now - and I don't want to take that away from her. I just want her to find fulfillment and joy and contentment within herself, in her dreams, in her goals and in the will of the Lord. If that falls in line with a husband and family, great, if not, that is okay too. I want her to have options and all the skills that she needs. I am overwhelmed today by the scope of it all. I am glad I have a few years to worry about it intently.

All in all, my life turned out great - is still turning out great. It is not the life I envisioned. My husband is not the one I would have picked out in 1984. But you know what, God knew better than me - He took care of me on that path I chose, even though looking back, I know it was not His path for me. But He worked it out and turned it around and directed me to the life I have now. My husband is the best, he is not perfect, but he is a great guy. He loves me and our daughter and that is worth more to me than all the gold in the world. I am thankful for 1984. I definitely really don't want to go back and do it all over again. I just want the wisdom to know what to say to my daughter, when she is seventeen and a boy calls for a date. I don't want her to have a "1984" in her past to regret one day.

TGIF!

Thank Goodness!

Today is looking to be a much better day --- the rain seems to have stopped and good goo-ga-mu-ga - it is 8:30 AM and my child is still sleeping! This is an event that never happens in this snug little house. Usually, she is up and bouncing by 7 AM. No fail, no matter what time she went to bed or how many times she woke up during the night - 7 AM - always.

Of course, as I am typing she is waking so this post will be shorter than I anticipated. That is my life folks - little one calls and I go a running!

Today is haircut day - my sweet little one and I are both going to get styled! I will post pics afterwards - I am anticipating a big change - at least for one of us.

So, now that your day is going to filled with excitement and anticipation of our hair chronicles - I will leave you. Come back and visit soon!

Happy, Happy
Beverly

Taking You Back Thursday!

Here's a new segment on Happy Moments. Every Thursday it's Take You Back Thursday!

Like Marty McFly and Huey Lewis... we're going back in time... (you're singing that now aren't you?)

And just because I love you --- here's a fun way to start it off - 1983 is our first stop!

Click Here!
It's Electric! (please don't tell my Dad I ever did this...hee hee hee!)

Now, see if you can get through the rest of this day without that song in your head! Boogie, Woogie, Woogie!

A Real Snow Angel!

Now that Hannah is three, first times do not come around that much anymore - but tonight - we got another First in her little life - Her first snow! She has been waiting for this and quite frankly in our neck of the woods, snow is rarely seen. In fact, I think the last snowfall in my memory is about five or six years ago! Enjoy the pictures of a three year old and her first snow!

She has wanted to do this since she turned 2 - she has been doing this in sandboxes -- tonight she got the chance to do it for real - SNOW ANGEL! WHOOHOO!

And this, my friends, is her very first snowball -- which right after this picture, she threw directly at my face -- what a kid!
Yes, bloggers, a big day in our world! Hope you enjoy the pics of snow - we sure had fun!

Wordless Wednesday

Here is my baby - on the beach - one of my favorite pictures of her. EVER!

For more Wordless Wednesday posts please click here!

Coconut Cake Ice Cream

Okay - today's post is short and sweet - really sweet.

Mayfield's Coconut Cake ice cream -- buy it, get a bowl, scoop it and ENJOY!

It is "slap your mama" good! And that is saying something!

Happy, Happy,
Beverly

TRENDY TUESDAY...The first!

Greetings blogger friends!

Welcome to the first ever Trendy Tuesday! I am here to serve you and all your fashion needs. Ha - not really, but I am here to share with you some of the latest trends and exciting things on the fashion scene today. I am not, I repeat, NOT a fashionista! I am just a mommy - sort of tired of wearing the same ole thing everyday and ready to dress it up a little! My "baby" is a full-fledged toddler now, the days of no showers, (yes, that did exist - and if you have had a baby, you will understand what I mean!), staying in sweats or pj's all day and cleaning up spit-up are basically over in my house. We do have the occasional pj day, and yes, we sometimes have spit-up (or worse) - but generally my clothes do not provide a running tally of what my child has eaten all day.

So, if those days are gone, but I am still a stay-at- home mom without an "outside of the home" job to go to and dress up for, what do I do? What do you do if you are in the same position? Are we doomed to a life of sweatpants and hoodies? And what if we are not a size 2? Is there fashion in the double digits of sizedom? I pray the answer is yes, I pray that we can together "kick it up" style wise. No more frumpy, mommy uniforms. Commit now to putting together at least one new outfit and wearing it - to your child's next playdate. Make the other mommies envious of your fashion sense and style!

I appreciate all the comments and emails over the last few days. It has been great to hear from some of you that I haven't seen or spoken to in quite awhile. Those of you who invited friends... well, what can I say - you are the best and you know it! I will post the winning friend of my Old Navy gift card at the bottom of this post.

So, onto fashion!
One of my email friends had a question about jewelry: "Funny, I have never been able to pull off jewelry- it just looks ridiculous on me. As my new fashion expert, can you tell me, is there something wrong with me?!" Signed, DanFogelberg's Biggest Fan!

Well, Dan's Fan - I hear ya! Sometimes I get carried away and buy lots of jewelry pieces, but then get home and try to put them together and get NOTHING! Some days it is just simpler to wear the wedding ring and watch and be done with it. My advice is to start small. Maybe incorporate just a great basic necklace. Like this, not only is it cheap--uh...inexpensive - but it is trendy and could easily be wore with lots of different things. I think it would look great over a turtleneck or sweater such as this. Or even this.

You don't even have to put the earrings in - just go with the necklace. Usually the rule is put your jewelry all on - then look in the mirror and take something off. I really like the trendy, chunky type of necklaces and earrings, but I usually only wear one piece - chunky necklace, no earrings or neat, chunky dangling earrings, no necklace! I am short, I think this helps to keeping from "weighing" me down. If you are tall and thin - then go for it all. Us shorties, well, we need to limit it a bit I think.

So, try a few pieces of the costume necklaces - or if that is still too much for you - maybe just invest in a few bracelets, like this which is a bit pricey or this which is inexpensive and would go with any outfit.

So, Dan's Fan and everyone - start small, try a piece or two of costume jewelry and then remember to take a look in the mirror before leaving. It is no crime to take off the earrings, or the necklace. Gone are the days when we had to match from earrings to shoes.

Now, before we dive into the fashions out there for this Winter season - let's talk color. I found a great website that keys us in on the colors we should be looking for - click here.

Blues are really hot right now - all shades - especially popular now and for the upcoming Spring is the crayon colors. Bright blue, green, yellow and red. You can incorporate these great colors with all the basic neutrals that are probably in your wardrobe already.

Here is a great dress that is in that wonderful fun blue color - this type of dress can take you right into Spring, paired with a fun shoe like this or even just basic neutral shoe like this and you can wear it for church, or an evening out with the hubby. It is also great for most body types!

So, the great colors that are in the stores right now - bright, crayola crayon colors - jump in, buy a few accent pieces to spice up your basic wardrobe. There are lots of accents to choose from, coats, scarves, purses, shoes, and yes, even the aforementioned costume jewelry.

The best blouses I have found so far on this search are here, ANA from JC Penny. These are great, print blouses that will go with jeans, dress pants or skirts. They look great under jackets like this, or just alone for an unusually warm winter day. The bonus of these blouses is that they will carry right into Spring and even Summer. They are roomy and look great on all body types. So, best advice is to go and spend a few moments, trying on blouses like these, find some that you love and live in them for the rest of the season. You can easily dress them up for church or dinner, with a fun necklace, or fun pair of shoes and a bag. The look of the seventies and early eighties is back - let's embrace it and enjoy it where we can!

Well, my fashion blogger friends. This concludes the first of our Trendy Tuesdays. I hope you have found something here to help you start boosting your wardrobe and get motivated to shop a little bit for yourself. I will continue to troll the web and the mall to find the things that you just can't do without - fashion wise anyway! Remember to email me your questions or reply in the comment section. Come back and invite your friends!

I will be back next week with more!!!

Fashionably Happy,

Beverly

__________________________________________________
And the winner is:

# 6 - Laura Roberts -- your gift card is in the mail! Enjoy!

(I used random.org, dice roller - I had a combination of 7 emails and comments. I listed them in order of receipt and then"rolled the dice." )

Keeping Up with Snow White's Shoe!

So, the toys in our house have changed. Sometime, seemingly overnight, my baby girl decided to grow into a full-fledged three year old. Pottying, being polite (sometimes), talking in complete sentences, paragraphs and exaggerations. She is starting to read a little (or at least sound out some words) and even is able to wear clothes in the girls department - gasp - and not the toddler section.

In addition to these hard to swallow changes, the toys that interest her sweet little brain have undergone a change as well. She is tremendously entertained by playdough, her brand new marble run, race cars (for heaven sake!!) and now --- da, da, da, da... polly pocket and her polly pocket like friends - miniature Snow White, Belle, and Jasmine.

I remember playing with Barbie as a child and trying my best to keep up with her clothing and minute shoes and bags - but this, this, my friends is beyond ridiculous. These tiny people that make my daughter so happy, have such tiny shoes and accessories that it boggles the mind to think how they could have been manufactured. Perhaps the elves really do make them. Making the tiny pieces are one thing - but poor parents like me everywhere are having to play with them, dress them and ultimately keep up with all the little pieces. I mean heavens to betsy - what if Snow White wants to wear the yellow dress and there is only one yellow shoe - ah - the horror! I think I have reached a new level of obsession. I am constantly going behind my munchkin and picking up the tiny shoes and bags and placing them in a container -- so afraid they will be lost.

I am OCDing about doll accessories -- somebody call Dr. Phil immediately.

I am actually concerned for the next generation - will the dolls be even smaller, how will the moms and dads of 2020 ever get those shoes on the feet of next generation of "little dolls?"

I am contemplating a "rapture of the little ones" -- maybe during the night - maybe the trumpet will blow for them and they and all their cute shoes and dresses and other ridiculous paraphernalia will disappear... sounds like a great plan to me. I definitely could do without the stress!

Tomorrow is the Big Day!

If you haven't left a comment - here is your chance. Leave a comment on this blog entry and enter in the giveaway for Trendy Tuesday. It is a big day here at Happy Momments - we (the staff and I - snark, snark) hope you all tune back in to see what we have in store for you. Winner of the giveaway will be announced at the end of Tuesday's article!

Happy, Happy
Beverly

Fashion Smashion!

I decided to incorporate a fashion segment on this here blawg.

As I strolled the mall yesterday, I realized that I really do like clothes, jewelry is a great thing and I have been deprived of the two for a long time. I used to coordinate - clothes, bags, shoes, earrings, - but those were the days before mommyhood and sleep deprivation - you know, when I had a life outside of this house.

So, if I am like that, surely there must be others. I mean, why else are there programs like "What Not To Wear" and makeover shows by the gazillion? I decided last night, after hanging up my new clothing finds in my closet (which, by the way, I think needs a makeover show of its own!!) that I would help myself, and thereby help others. I am a true giver, don't you know!

It is my heartfelt desire to provide a weekly article that highlights shopping, latest fashions, latest trends, etc. Now, I am not a fashionesta, but I do love clothing, jewelry and shopping. I will scroll the web to find the latest information, for you, my internet friends. If you have a question, comment, or request, I hope that you will place them in the comment section or email me at mississippigirl0406at yahoo dot com. (please note that I have put words in for symbols to avoid spamming... you will have to change it actually get an email to me-- I know you can do it!!)


I am so excited about this -- I hope you will participate it - that will make it all the more fun.


Oh, and did I mention that I will be posting this every week on Tuesdays, TRENDY TUESDAYS!


Please come and visit - it will be fun, I promise.


In an effort to drum up some business for this first Tuesday, I will be giving away a gift card to Old Navy. They have really cute clothes, mostly sportswear and in order to enter, you will need to comment on this entry or email me by Monday, January 13th. COME ON - join in, email your friends, have them scoot over here to join in the fun too! Let's have some fun!

Happy, Happy!
Beverly

Tidbit Thursday

Okay - so I am grasping for a title with this one ... but it has been a slow day, bloggityville wise, and I decided to just do a list of hopefully interesting tidbits.

My favorite way to spend a morning, shopping with a friend and eating lunch in a grownup restaurant! WOW

Finding the dryer empty and waiting for the next load, when I open it to put in wet clothes. I hate having to fold a load of clothes (usually from a day or two before!!) in order to make space for a finished washed load in the washer!

Waterproof mattress covers are really handy! This statement brought to you by the mother of (for the most part, except for a few "accidents) potty-training toddler!

The best recipe for rolls I have come upon in a long time --- 1 cup self rising flour, 1/2 cup milk, mixed together with 1 tsp sugar and 2 tbsp. mayo! Fills six muffin cups (slightly greased) and baked for 13 minutes in a 350 degree oven. EASY and oh so yummy!

I really like Paula Deen, for a lot of reasons, but the above tidbit is from her and it ROCKS!

I love 80's music - it is a special treat while driving in town, takes me all the way back!

Speaking of the 80's - have you seen the fashions for the spring... sure does look like my closet in 1982 if you ask me -- yikes!

Oh - and what is up with that yellow color that is apparently so popular for this spring. Good grief -- can anyone say "canary"? You need to have really dark hair and a good tan to pull that off people -- be careful!

I love chunky jewelry, but never buy it. Why?

I am "watching" Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs for the thirteenth day in a row -- thankfully today it is the first showing, usually by this time in the evening we have seen it at least twice. Hi, Ho, Hi,Ho - it's off to work we go....

Dinner tonight is spaghetti and those yummy rolls listed above.

I have now reached the end of my "interesting" tidbits - they are no longer even interesting to me -- so blessings upon you if you are reading this sentence. You are a trooper!

Wordless Wednesday

My Two Sweeties!

For more Wordless Wednesdays click here

The Call of the Aisle

There is nothing more joyful or no happier moment for me than finding a bargain. And finding a bargain at Target is even better.

Due to my husband's need of mouthwash and my daughter's need for more C size batteries, I had to, just had to, make a run to my favorite "everything you want and everything you need" store yesterday. I strolled the aisles and eventually found the two things I actually made the drive for and then, I heard it - the call of the clothing section, clearance racks, clearance racks, clearance racks!

My buggy just turned down the aisle itself - honest - and there I was - amidst all the cute little girl winter type clothing - 50 and 75 percent off. Holy Cow!

I am happy to report that my dear little one is now sporting three of the cutest long sleeve shirts that cost $2.24 each, one pair of jeans (with adjustable waist- glory,glory,hallelujah!) for $2.74,(I would have bought more, but they only had one in her size!) and one cute turtleneck with pretty stars for the big price of $1.12. WOW - such deals! I am so happy! It is hard to keep the sweet dear in clothing at the moment - she is growing up and up and up and is still as skinny as ever - she is also incredibly rough on jeans and pants - so getting bargains in this area is so exciting for me.

Thank you Tar-jaay! Wish I could have found some more bargains in my sizes or in housewares or DVDs - but I guess I will just have to be content in my joy of small sized clothing finds.

Happy Shopping!
Beverly

Oh - and I did splurge and buy a copy of my latest new favorite movie Waitress... gosh I love that movie -- have I said that enough here -- now, if I can just find the soundtrack somewhere --- still loving that song and wanting to bake pies!

Dear Dad

Pardon me internet friends, with a nod to annoying tv special announcements everywhere - here is break from our regular entry and a short note to my dad. My daddy reads my blog faithfully every morning-- just wanted to acknowledge him and send him this short message.

Dear Dad,

Just wanted to let you know that I am now using my mouse (the one with the cord, not the one on the laptop itself!) with my laptop sometimes. It does make some things easier -- so, yes, sometimes you are right! Go ahead and mark that on your calendar - I said you were right!!!

Just wanted you to know and thanks for adding it to my computer "package"!

Love ya !
Beverly

We now return you to your regularly scheduled blog entry readings....
Thank you for your patience.

Baby, Don't You Cry - I've Sung It All Day Long!

Click the video above and maybe this will make more sense.

So, I do realize that I am a bit out of step with the popular culture, I just saw this movie yesterday -- it was a really good one - and it made me want to make a pie. So, I did and here is a pic of the pie I invented. I call it "Having a Three Year Old Can Make You Old Before Your Time" Pie. Sweet pistachio pudding, a little nutty, green like mold and topped with colorful marshmallows. Sweet, old fashioned, moldy, nut-filled pie ----- yum!
So, enjoy the song, enjoy my pic and just know that I made a pie with a heart in the middle. And if you want a good movie to while away an afternoon - check out Waitress.

Here's the lyrics for those of you who want them.... I did and I now I sing them to Ms. Hannahbug - our own special cooking lullaby

Baby don't you cry,gonna bake a pie, gonna bake a pie with a heart in the middle. Baby don't be blue, gonna make for you, gonna make a pie with a heart in the middle. Gonna bake a pie from heaven above,Gonna be filled with strawberry love. Baby don't you cry,gonna make a pie,and hold you forever in the middle of my heart.

Baby, here's the sun,Baby, here's the sky, Baby, I'm your light andI'm your shelter.

Baby, you are mine. I could freeze the time, And keep you in the kitchen with me forever.Gonna bake a pie with heaven above,Gonna be filled with strawberry love.

Baby, don't you cry,
Gonna make a pie and
Hold you forever in the middle of my heart.

Happy, Happy
Beverly

Three Year Olds and Mondays Always Get Me Down!

So, my friend Lisa and I used to have weekly playdates with our two darlings. It was a designated thing - every Tuesday, come "you know what" and high water. And then along came September and...

We (me and mine) signed up for gymnastics.

In defense, my sweet youngun turned three and was suddenly eligible for the beginner class and Lisa's little sweetie is four months younger. So we signed up for gymnastics class - which met the same time as our weekly playdate. It seemed every week Lisa and I vowed to set another permanent date for play and every week, something came up. It was fall, it was cold weather, there was sickness in the air, both at our house and theirs. It just never seemed to pan out. Consequently, the two girls have rarely played together since on or about August. There have been some playdates, mostly spontaneous, there was the Wiggle concert and some cookie decorating in December, and we did get together for our annual Christmas Festivus Extravaganza.

But this being the new year and all, we decided to re institute the weekly playdate and yes, my dear Internets, this was the day.

Picture it, a beautiful Monday, two sweet faced, freshly scrubbed, dressed to the nines, cuteness defining three year olds, laughing and playing and enjoying their time together in a playroom filled with tons of toys. Picture it - because that ain't what happened. Oh, the sweet-faced, freshly scrubbed and nicely dressed part is true, but the laughing, playing, content with the toys and each other - forgetaboutit!

I think we had been there about five minutes when my dearie decided she was unhappy with the proceedings in the playroom and stormed out to sit on the couch in the living room. This triggered cries from the other dear one left suddenly alone in the playroom. I convinced mine to go back in (in a sweet, motherly voice -- hahhaha!) and then minutes later Lisa's dearie was upset by something and the scenario replayed itself, over and over and over. It was exhausting. Finally, Lisa and I decided to just remove them from the scene and hoofed it over to the nearest Burger King for a food break.

We love Burger King - not only can you get it your way.. you can get it your way and sit in the playground to eat it. Children can play, adults can eat and talk and everyone is happy!

I wish I could say all went well after that... but if you have ever met either of these two sweethearts, you know that can not be so.

There was crying and gnashing of teeth - and that was just me and Lisa. I think the girls ate a little, I think they eventually had fun on the slide, but before that, we had a breakdown over water on the playground, a lost toy (funny how if you throw toys they can sometimes disappear into the playset and get lost forever!), arguments over who got to climb first, fight over who can slay imaginary monster first, crying with great dramatic flair over a fall and a small boo-boo (it was a pretty bad fall, but the screams didn't quite align with the injury :-) and then by some miracle the girls started playing well together - gee only three hours to accomplish this task and it was time to go.

I am not really sure the girls had fun. Maybe in the three year old mind it was fun. I know that mommies were having fun - we just enjoyed the sunshine and tried to block out the toddler trauma drama. I am not sure we are ready for a weekly playdate, maybe we should continue it and hope it gets better, or maybe we should get babysitters and make it a mommy lunch every week, sans the kiddos!

Through all the drama, it was nice to just sit and chat with my friend again, to commiserate on the "joys" of motherhood and to reassure ourselves that we are not alone and that somehow, someway, we will survive it all...or maybe we will just share a room at the asylum together. Either way, we won't be alone! ;-)

Happy, Happy!
Beverly

I must add that since I have completed this entry - I have received a phone call from my friend Lisa and the "crying with great dramatic flair over a fall and a small boo boo" was actually a bit understated. Apparently upon waking from her nap, her youngun now is sporting a bad bruise and a potential black eye. Oh well, guess the drama did align with the injury -- oops! Here's hoping "Coffee Pot's" eye is better soon and here is a prayer of thanksgiving that my youngun was not around when the fall took place! Whew !

A Little Update!

Okay - for those of you at home, just waiting and watching with baited breath over the latest happenings in our world, here is a weekly update -- from a pretty big week!

• Hannah is officially out of pull-ups and being the big girl we always knew she could be!


• My grated thumb is now finally healed up and although there will be a scar, I think it might not be as hideous as previously imagined.


• We returned home from our trip to Florida - which I will write about - just as soon as I recover from the trauma of being in 80 degree weather and on the beach three days after Christmas!


• We celebrated the New Year by firing off some fireworks, which by the way terrified Hannah for the most part, and by watching the Sugarbowl with our families.
  

And finally, here is the big one -- I FINALLY TOOK DOWN ALL THE CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS -- big cheer --- hip, hip, hooray! Picture me taking my bows -- I am so proud!

So, that is our week in review- I hope you all had a great week too. Oh and before I forget - the winner of my New Year's Eve Open House Apple Cake is...(insert drumroll here) my friend Krissy of So You See. The cake will be on it's way to you, Krissy - I am investigating the safest way to ship right now! Thanks for leaving a comment.


Happy, Happy!
Beverly

Well, I haven't been this proud since...well, NEVER!

Yesterday was a BIG one for our household, as I tried to dress my little one for our weekly jaunt to the grocery store, I started to put on the pull-ups and was met with such resistance I quickly put them away! Hooray! She wanted big girl pants! Yipee! We actually left the home with them on, traveled to Target, grocery store, and McD's for lunch - all pull-up free! I was so excited I took her for ice cream. We even spent the rest of the day in them and slept pull-up free for the first time. Her daddy and I could not be more proud! It is a big day and a huge milestone. Just one more reminder that the chubby cheeked little baby is quickly being replaced by a beautiful, bubbly big girl. Life is bittersweet for me today!

Now, back to taking down Christmas decorations, I promise I will finish today...maybe!

I heart Huckabee!

Enuff said!
Go Mike Go!
Click here for the info!

Something about this post reminds me of Seinfeld...a lot of nothing and some pirates

After sitting and pondering for an hour or so last night about what I should write about next, cause ya'll remember I have signed up to write here once a day for a year, I decided that I was pretty much in a state of writer's block. Nothing funny had really happened, well, stuff happened, but it wasn't really funny enough or catchy enough to help me create, and I was tired, make that exhausted, after finding ways to avoid putting up the Christmas tree decorations. Do ya'll know how hard it is to find one thousand ways to avoid doing that? By 7 PM, I absolutely refused to do anything more than than gather all the snowmen and Christmas knickknacks, stockings and garland and place them on the dining room table - my mother's form of initial undecorating. The tree is still holding onto its ornaments and lights -- maybe today.... (or maybe not - we are this far into the year, maybe I should consider just leaving it up all year and decorating it for each appropriate season -- let's see Valentine's day is ahead of us - how about a tree filled with heart ornaments. Of course that would mean I have to take the Christmas ornaments off and then we are right back to my original dilemma.) Maybe it will just be Christmas all year round - my daughter already wants to put out more cookies for Santa - maybe that would work. We could become The House that Never Stops Celebrating Christmas, the neighbors would be so proud, but at least everyone would know how to find our house - just look for the red bows, wreaths and garland on the outside - maybe I could even go buy one of thos blow-up Santas on sale at Walmart and put it up just for added decorations...I am so digressing. Sorry!

So, back to my tale of not having anything to write and God bless you if you have stuck with this entry to this point - keep hanging on - maybe it will amount to something and your precious time will not have been wasted. As I closed up the computer, I headed to the bedroom, hoping to rest my mind and get some sleep. I didn't have a thought in my head - NADA. Then, the most wonderful thing happened. I turned on the tv and after scrolling through the channels I happened upon the most entertaining show I have seen since I caught a marathon of Split Ends on a Saturday night last fall and since my favorite show of all time, I Want To Be A Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader went off for the season (please Lord, bring it back soon!), the show... insert your favorite drum roll here - PARTY MAMAS!

Now, I thought I was bad - seriously, I obsess over my child's birthday party. She has had three and all of them, at least in my mind, have been productions in some form or another. I am even known in these parts for throwing an awesome doggie birthday and even more spectacular doggie Halloween costume party - but people, I am an amateur! The woman I watched last night was incredible. The premise of the show is similar to the Sweet Sixteen party reality show on MTV, but this Party Mamas, pits the mother of a child (this time a 3 year old) against all odds to create a spectacular, mindblowing, extravaganza for her child's birthday. This woman, I believe her name is Susan, was on a mission to create a pirate themed party for her "adorable" three year old son, Zach. She proceeded to scream at her husband, her children and her friends and family, various retail workers, party planners and caterers for the majority of the show - my favorite line was "how can I have a party without PROPS?" It was priceless people! She secured a boat, demanded all guests wear pirate theme costumes ("or they were not gettin' on that boat!"), ordered props such as treasure chest, skeleton, banners, swords, ropes, hired entertainers - (think swashbucklers) and even proceeded to take fencing lessons so she could participate in a sketch and "fight" pirates on her ship. By the day of the party, no one wanted to come, even her husband (who finally relented, probably because she had learned to wield a sword - that would have convinced me!) and at the last moment, even little Zach, for whom all of this hubbub was created, proclaimed he hated boats, and pirates and did NOT WANT TO PUT ON THAT COSTUME! Precious - don't ya love it. Just like an ungrateful three year old! I have one - I know!

Of course, editing and Hollywood were involved, so the party did go on and of course all ended in an incredible party on board the ship - even the skies cleared and the sun shone and the Party Mama was the hit of the town! Heavens, ya'll, if you haven't seen this show - please look it up - it is on the WE network and worth every second of the thirty minutes you will invest, especially if you are a mom and like to throw parties. Hysterical!

So, there is my ramble for this morning. It seems rather long for someone that didn't have much to say. I will try to contain better tomorrow! Thanks for sticking with it this far may you have a stupendous rest of the day!

Ode to The Mamas'

I just wanted to say a quick word about my latest obsession in blogland! Two blogsites are well worth your time to visit. BooMama and BigMama are two funny southern gals who write like they talk and now have a podcast to boot! They are becoming my heroes in this blog world and I am looking forward to this year as a newly devoted fan of the Mama's! I am pretty certain if we ever met- we would all be friends...so in my "world" I will just declare them my newest BFFs!

Check 'em out - but don't forget to keep checking this blog out as well.
2008 - it is gonna be GREAT!

The First Hour of the Day

Frequently, I log onto our adoption agency's chat forum - just to see what is going on with that particular group of people who we made contact with over three years ago. Today, a post got me thinking, so with inspiration from another adoptive mother, here is my blog entry for the day.

In the first hour of this day my daughter:

• woke me up by turning on the television set at 6:45 AM
• watched half a minute of The Upside Down Show
• took all the books from her bookshelf off - she wanted the book on the bottom
• had me read her The Three Little Pigs
• made a bed in the living room to sleep
• "cooked" soup in her kitchen
• played a game on Noggin.com
• ate all the reward M & M's in the bathroom
• ate a popsicle (I know, but it has fruit in it - I think it counts as a food group!!)
• ate grits and ham (see, I am not all bad at this mother thing)
• danced to Dora
• pulled all her puzzles out of the storage bin and scattered the pieces to the four winds
• played on her "computer"
• sent marbles on their daily run
• played with her car road (race track)

Now, she is silently watching Oswald or Little Bear and vegging out on the floor. I am exhausted just watching her move. Oh, and did I mention she has a cold and really doesn't feel well?

Me - in the same first hour of the day:

• laid on the couch, trying hard to pretend I was still in my bed, warm and cozy.
• got up and hunted for the remote to change the channel
• grabbed a Coke to drink, put the remainder in the freezer for a Coke treat later on!
• stepped over puzzles
• logged onto my favorite chat boards
• read email
• laid back down on the couch to read a book to said three year old
• drank more Coke
• got popsicle, make grits and ham
• re-checked email
• cleaned up the grits that dear one dropped on the floor
• re-made grits to replace the dropped ones
• laid back down on the floor with cute, cuddly three year old
• pretended that I was still asleep and
• tried to avoid thinking about the myriad of decorations that I need to take down! :-(

My husband's first hour of the same day:

• slept through the 6:45 AM television wake up call
• slept through the first hour and at last look is still snoozing away, oblivious to all the activity in the house. Ahh! Must be nice to be a man! ;-)

Well, enough procrastination for one morning... I am off to de-Christmasitize (yes, that is a word, I just invented it!) my home!

Ending the Year...with a Swoop!

'Tis 2008 blogger friends!

I wanted to wish each and every one of you a very happy and blessed year. I attempted last night to sit and ponder all the wonders of the past year, hoping to think of something profound to write about everything that transpired in 2007 – unfortunately, there was a Sopranos marathon on the TV and before I knew it, I was enthralled once again in the saga of my favorite mob boss. So enthralled in fact, that I completely missed the midnight chime of 2008, never saw the ball drop in the famous square and actually fell asleep watching Tony make deal, after deal as the series finale loomed ahead. I awoke this morning to the same marathon, all the last episodes apparently ran throughout the night – so my new year started, the same as my old year ended, with Tony, Carmela, AJ, onion rings, Meadow at the door and Journey blaring and then abruptly stopping! If you are a Sopranos fan, you will completely understand that last sentence, if not – well, just press on – perhaps this blog will start to make sense sooner or later.

So, this morning, here I sit at my kitchen table, trying again to make a profound statement on the year that just past us – perhaps there isn’t one. Perhaps I should just be thankful for the life that was allotted to me and the ones that I love this past year, and pray for more of the same in this coming year. More love, more laughter, more crazy times spent with friends, less loss of those I love, less stress and worry over frivolous things, less time away from family and dear friends.

On a side note, something incredibly funny did happen on the last night of 2007. To understand this story in it’s entirety – please place in your memory file that I am desperately afraid of birds – as a toddler I visited a zoo and a parrot or some other “exotic” bird was placed on my head (I can only assume in some fit of parental excitement that it would make a great picture) unfortunately, the birds claws apparently dug into my soft little head and left an indelible fear of all things fowl (unless they are fried and laid out in a bucket from the colonel). So, that said, on to my story.

My dear hubby was working last night, so dear daughter and I were spending the night alone – my parents decided to stop by and visit for awhile. As I opened the front door – in swooped a bird – a low-flying humongous bird – (okay, I am sure it was really quite small, but it seemed huge to me as it barreled toward my head!) And not only that, but he had a little friend who flew in as well – so I had not one, but TWO birds flying around my house. I was immediately overcome with bouts of screaming (yes, screaming like the girl I am!) and running around the house. My parents, ever the sane ones, grabbed a towel and proceeded to chase the birdies, until they were caught, unharmed in the towel and put back outside. I really don’t think I will ever get over it. The trauma! The horror! Two flying things in my house – ick! I was hysterical and if I had any alcoholic beverage in this house, I would have chugged a lugged it right then and there.

So, I didn’t have any fireworks, or loud music or a ball dropping on my New Year’s Eve – but I did get my head buzzed by two birds! Definitely a New Year’s Eve to remember!