I'm officially a Work at Home Mom!

Last night was my first night working from home and aside from Hubby getting home late which cut in on my nap and Monster throwing a huge tantrum right as I was clocking in all went well. My shift started at 9:00 PM.
Hubby was over an hour late getting home last night because he had a meeting that ran late and then had to stop at the pharmacy to pick up Monster's antibiotic for his 2nd double ear infection this season; I think I got about a 30-45 minute nap because I had trouble falling asleep. Surprisingly I woke up pretty easily and made myself a bagel.
Just as I was about to clock in, my sleepy little Monster decided to have an all out melt down to the point that he wanted to be held but only in a certain spot where the living room, kitchen and hallway all meet. If Hubby moved a step in any direction he freaked out. I tried holding him but had the same result. Eventually Hubby took him in his bedroom so I could work because in our tiny little apartment the only place to set up my work station is on the sidebar in the living room.


My desk


Notes and motivation


Storage

The bedroom didn't work either so I put Thomas the train on Netflix and that did the trick; soon enough I had a sleeping toddler on the sofa and a sleeping Hubby on the floor. There was not a chance I was moving the toddler, although he did at one point sleep through rolling off the sofa.
Things were a bit confusing when I clocked in since I was never actually told what to do, I'm so used to having a strict schedule for my day so it was strange to not have a list in front of me, but I got over it fast enough. Honestly, it was really nice. I was solid until about 3:00 AM when I sudden;y became very tired and by 6:00 AM I was having trouble keeping my eyes open but I made it to 7:00 AM and went straight to bed until 12:00 PM.
I have to say even though I've only done 1 night, so far I'm loving being a work at home Mom. In the 4 days I had off between working in the office and working from home I was able to catch up on ALL of the laundry and even put it away (which never happens), I started reorganizing the kitchen (don't worry, there will be a whole other post on that once it's completed) and Hubby and I are planning to start exercising next week (because I thought doing too much in 1 week would be a bit rough). So far, this is the best decision I've ever made and I can't wait to do all things I never had time to do with Monster and Hubby.

MommyCon Philly

Back in July I heard MommyCon would be visiting Philadelphia October 4-5 and decided I had to go. I couldn't pass up the chance to hang out with hundreds of like minds and get to meet some amazing people. I talked to Hubby and instead of dipping into our practically non-existent saving I sold some diapers to pay for my VIP ticket, no regrets.

The VIP ticket not only gave me extra goodies in my gift bag but is also included a brand new Beco Soleil (which alone retails for more then the cost of the ticket) and an extra day with Jessica Martin-Weber of The Leaky Boob, Bunmi Laditan of The Honest Toddler and Jamie Grayson of Baby Guy NYC.





I brought Monster with me on Saturday for VIP day, we both had a blast. While Monster was not into being personally fitted for our new Beco, he did enjoy playing with the other kids and running around the Convention Center. I'll say this, my child is not going to have a problem making friends when he gets older. The seminar room was filled with tunnels and playhouses in the back for Moms like me who brought toddlers along for the day, all of the kids seemed to enjoy it (they did not however like the few kids who played a bit too rough and were jumping on top of the tunnels while others were inside). The play area was nice because it allowed me to half listen to the speakers. We all cried with Jessica, laughed with Bunmi and learned about baby gear that I will never be able to afford with Jamie. As an added bonus, all of the speakers had giveaways.

Our Mommy/Monster day could not have gone any better. Monster had his first Patco train ride and walk through Center City Philadelphia. I of course felt right at home, it felt good but weird to be there for fun and not for work. I watched my son smoothly interact with other kids all in an unfamiliar place, he never fails to amaze me. We had an indoor picnic in the hallway, sharing everything and pointed out colors, shapes and and counted our snacks. He rested his head on my shoulder while Jamie Grayson answered countless questions and gave away more gift bags and baby gear. Monster was asleep in the stroller before we were even walked 2 blocks back to the train station; I'm sure the fact that he missed his nap also had something to do with that. Definitely a day to remember.

On Sunday, general admission day, I went solo. My boys had a Daddy/Monster day watching the Eagles game while this Mama got a day to herself. I was up bright and early to catch the train, I was determined to make the 9:30 AM Cloth Diapers 101 seminar with Jennifer Labit of Cotton Babies. It was interesting to hear how her company started...from nothing. She could not even afford to buy diapers and groceries for her family and used her last $100.00 to start her business; she is an inspiration and gives me hope. I'm sure she did the same for others who were there.



I was a bit disappointed in the layout and schedule of seminars; I missed some speakers I wanted to see due to lack of organization. Seminars were in at least 3 different areas and there was no "Master List" of where and when seminars were being held; I only made it to the ones in the main room. Something I would have liked to see was someone to talk about raising a baby/toddler on a budget; after all, most people start out being crunchy to save money.
Most vendors had samples to give out and sales on their products. I stopped to learn about every vendor there, big and small. I was very happy to see my local cloth diaper/child consignment store The Nesting House had a booth. There were not as many vendors as I expected but there was certainly a little bit of everything. I'm happy to say I only bought 1 thing, my first AppleCheeks pocket diaper in the limited addition color Trick or Cheeks from FiggyFuzz Baby Boutique. I would have bought Boo also but they were sold out. All attendees also walked away with a free Kiinde Twist Starter set; a breastfeeding collection, storage and feeding kit. No more passing pumped milk from bottle to pouch and back to bottle anymore!

I spoiled myself a bit and went over to Reading Terminal Market for lunch, I had a pulled pork sandwich from DiNiC's... Delicious! Carrying everything around the market and back to the train was not easy, thank goodness I brought reusable bags with me to carry everything. My only regret from the weekend was that I did not take enough pictures, huge blogger fail. I was just so overwhelmed with everything else that I forgot, I did get some but most of them were of Monster playing. MommyCon posted photos of there own, Monster and I were in quite a few of them, mostly of us attempting to be fitted for our Beco. It was a wonderful weekend, I met some amazing women and I am looking forward to attending next year.

It's been a while

It's been a long time since I last posted, actually I have not posted since I started my new job in November 2013. Things haven't been wonderful but they could always be worse. I thought if I got back into to writing that it might be more therapeutic then sulking.

I miss working for the animal shelter and I wish I could go back to dispatching, the shelter is actually looking for a part time dispatcher but I need full time work. They are hiring for a full time ACO too, but after the way I was treated when I was an officer I wouldn't go back to that position at that animal shelter unless they were under new management. I was born to work in the shelter industry and I'm determined to go back, even if it's to a different shelter.

We were on vacation 2 weeks ago, a "stay-cation". We took several day trips including Storybook Land and the Philadelphia Zoo. I had a total of 9 days off including weekends and it was amazing. Hubby and I got to spend all week with Monster Boy (formally known as Minion); it was my first vacation since he was born in 2012. While I enjoyed it, it made going back to work so much harder. I've been struggling a lot lately with being a full time working mom, I feel like I don't get to spend enough time with Monster Boy. He is so smart and learns new things everyday, I love that, but I'm not always the one teaching him these things and it makes me a little sad. I've been searching for legitimate ways to make money from home but so far I've come up dry. Avon and "pyramid" type jobs didn't work out at all.

I've also been having trouble with our living arrangement. We just re-signed the lease in the complex we moved into last summer, today marks exactly one year since we moved from our 3 bedroom rancher with a huge yard to 2 bedroom apartment on the 10th floor. It's too small for us, we are hoping to save enough money by next summer to buy a house or at least rent one. There is no way we could have another baby here. I'd love to live in a small town where everyone knows each other, neighbors are able to make good on threats to "tell your parents" and you don't have to be afraid to be outside after dark. A farm town would be nice. Honestly, I think as long as I can't hear my neighbors TV work for word I'd be happy. So much for the soundproof walls we were told all units have.


Well enough depressing, how about a Monster Boy update. He turned 2 years old in June and is doing great, getting bigger every day. He can count to 11, forms full sentences and even spelled his own name the other day. He's also started calling me "Mommy" instead of "Mama" occasionally. He seemed very interested in potty training in June but it didn't last long, he likes his diapers. He does tell us when he needs to be changed though, most of the time. For now, his potty chair sits in the living room until he is ready to try again. Oh, and he's been binky free for almost 3 months. Even during Terrible Twos, that kid makes me happier then anything else in the world.

New Job

That's right, I finally got the job I've been after for over 10 years and now just 7 months later, I quit. I think I've lost my mind. I was venting to a friend one day about needing a new job closer to home (half joking and not seriously looking) and she told me her employer is always hiring; I figured what the heck, lets give it a shot. I had to take a pre-employment test which included a section on Excel, a program I've never so much as opened before let alone used. I failed it but must have rocked my interview because they hired me anyway! They offered me less money then what I make at the shelter so before I accepted Hubby and I sat down and figured out all of our expenses taking into account gas, tolls, food, sitter (who will have Minion 2 extra days now) and of course bills. Turns out, we are still saving more money if I take the new job. It also offers room for advancement and they have quarterly bonuses, something I'll likely never see at the shelter. I decided to take it. Hubby of course is thrilled because I will no longer be working night shift or over-nights anymore, or weekends for that matter. I've never had a job where not only so I have a set schedule but I have EVERY weekend off! Maybe I can be a functional member of my family for once.

I'm going to miss the shelter a lot though, for a lot of reasons. Saving animals lives, seeing something different everyday, police drug busts...I live for this stuff; I need to find myself a new adrenaline rush before I go stir crazy. Most of all I'm going to miss my co-workers. Scratch that, I'm going to miss my friends. I have met some amazing people working at the shelter and some life long friends, it's killing me that I won't get to see them everyday anymore. I'm not even going to be in the same state. I'm not going to get to see all the babies grow up (I started quite a baby boom when I got pregnant with Minion). Sure the place is like high school sometimes but what place isn't? So many people have had my back since I started there and genuinely supported me. Some are a bit over-protective but it's sweet and I think I'll even miss that. I'm always going to worry about my drivers even though I won't be working there anymore. They bust their butts doing what they love and it's usually a thankless job (except of course all the puppy kisses). Lives have been in danger more then once but it never stops anyone. I wish the rest of the world could see a shelter workers life through their eyes, it's hard. What am I going to do without this place?

I keep feeling like a made a mistake but I know this new job will be better for our future. We want to save to buy a house in a few years, I need a new car... These are all things that just won't be possible if I stay at the shelter. On a positive note, I get to go clothes/shoe shopping! This new place is business casual and there is not a lot in my current wardrobe that fits that category. Hubby is working on Sunday(his 1 a month) so Minion and I are going to spend the day upgrading our closets, I know he won't really enjoy it but at least we get to hang out together all day. Maybe I'll find somewhere with a play place for lunch since it's getting to cold for the playground... I know Chick-fil-A will be closed, I hope that doesn't leave only McDonald's. I can't eat there, it hurts my stomach and I'd rather Minion not eat there either.

This should definitely be interesting, I start this coming Monday so wish me luck.

VTECH InnoTab 3S Giveaway

Welcome to the Vtech's InnoTab Giveaway

This giveaway is brought to you by Empowered Mommy and friends!

Co-hosted by Black Coffe Brown Cow,  Nest Full Of New,  Powered By Dad,  Joys Of Life  &  Craft Cravings

Vtech's Innotab is a perfect technology gift for own child, niece/nephew or grandchildren! I was in love with this electronic toy ever since I laid eyes on it! Empowered Mommy and friends teamed together to giveaway one of these tabs to one of their reader!

What is Vtech's Innotab? 

It is tablet that offers a wealth of fun, age-appropriate learning games for kids, plus new ways to play and learn. Kids and parents can exchange and share their text messages, photos and more over a kid-safe Wi-Fi connection using VTech Kid Connect. Children can browse kid-safe and parent approved websites to find even more learning fun right from the InnoTab 3S.

What does this tablet include?

Exchange and Share with Smart phones

InnoTab 3S connects kids to their parents and friends anywhere (available with Wi-Fi connection). With VTech Kid Connect Basic (included) you can wirelessly exchange text and fun stickers between the InnoTab 3S and smart phones. Kids can also connect with friends and siblings safely with tablet-to-tablet communication between two InnoTab 3S tablets no matter where they are- anytime, anywhere.

Browse the web

Make A Wish

Deluxe Apps Package

Movie Maker

Rotating Camera and Video Recorder

Wonder Cam

Magic Beanstalk Game

& MUCH MORE!!!

Learning is even more fun with InnoTab 3S, fun that never stops!

This giveaway is open to US/CAN. Entrants must be 18+ to enter the giveaway.

Giveaway dates: October 17, 2013 to November 17, 2013

Enter via rafflecopter widget below. Allow the widget to fully load and claim as many entries as you can to maximize your chances to win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: Epic Tales of a First Time Mom is not responsible for the shipment of the prize. This giveaway is not at all endorsed or sponsored by Facebook, Twitter and/or Vtech. This is a self sponsored giveaway brought to you by Empowered Mommy and friends. Once the giveaway is over, the winner will be announced via random.org and will be contacted by Empowered Mommy via. For questions, please email Empowered Mommy. 

In Mind 4U "I Love You to the Moon & Back" sign Giveaway

Hosted By: Simply Southern Couponers

Sponsored By: In Mind 4U

In Mind 4 U is a hand painted wood sign shop on etsy founded by Stacy Murphy out of Ohio. She opened her shop on etsy in late 2010. While experimenting and seeing what she was going to sell, she saw her true calling, hand painted vintage style signs. She loves to paint or do anything that allows her to show her creative sign so she loves painting new signs for her shop. She has an amazing support system from her husband and their son. Read Simply Southern Couponers full review here.

Simply Southern Couponers is happy to have been able to partner up with In Mind 4U to give our readers this awesome giveaway! We will be giving away a wooden sign just like this one pictured above to one of our viewers (RV$30). See details below on how to enter!

Event Details:

October 16th - October 30th

Open to US residents who are 18 years of age or older.

To enter complete the entries on the Entry Form below. All winning entries will be verified.

Prize: One lucky viewer will have a chance to win their own "I love you to the moon & back" hand painted wood sign from In Mind 4U.

This would be a beautiful addition to any nursery or home decor.

Entry-Form

Disclosure: Epic Tales of a First Time Mom did not receive compensation for promoting this event and is not responsible for prize fulfillment. This giveaway is no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google or any other social network. Nomad Footwear is responsible for prize fulfillment. Please contact Jennifer atsimplysoutherncouponers@gmail.com if you have any questions.

BabyBjorn ONE carrier Giveaway

Welcome to the BabyBjörn

ONE Carrier

Giveaway

Hosted by: So Sew Mama

Sponsored by: BabyBjörn

Epic Tales of a First Time Mom proudly supports baby wearing!

The Features:

• The Baby Carrier One is for use with newborns (minimum 8 pounds) to age approximately age three (maximum 33 pounds)
• Four position options. Front carrying in or outward facing. Back carrying in or outward facing.
• Ergonomic design with back distribution and a waist belt for added parental and babe comfort.
• All fabrics safety tested and free from hazardous chemicals.
• Machine washable
• Extra secure

Click Here to read So Sew Mamas Full review.

Giveaway

10/8 - 10/22

One reader will receive the BabyBjörn ONE carrier. The winner must be 18+ years of age and have a US address. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery. Winner must reply to email to confirm address with 48 hours or a new winner is chosen. The more entries you complete the greater of a chance you have at winning.

Good luck!

Entry-Form

SHARE LINK http://giveawaytools.com/share.php?giveaway=320438309

So Sew Mama and the bloggers involved are not responsible for sponsor prize shipment and fulfillment. Facebook is not affiliated with this giveaway. I was not compensated for this post.

Pit Bull Calendar Giveaway

Hosted by: Queen of Savings

Dog Park Publishing, based out of northern New Jersey, was created for the purpose of showcasing and celebrating the Pit Bull, in particular, as a majestic, affectionate, and intelligent breed that is sorely misunderstood.

They have developed calendars and other products -- with a portion of the proceeds going to Pit Bull rescue groups -- to increase the public's awareness of the good qualities of these wonderful dogs.

3 Winners will receive a Painted Pit Bulls 2014 Calendar that is a full-color 12"x12" wall calendar, perfect for any Pit Bull or dog lover! Enjoy twelve months of beautiful artwork by artist Dean Russo -- each month features a new and exciting print.

3 Winners will receive a For The Love of Pit Bulls 2014 Calendar that is a full-color 12"x12" wall calendar, perfect for any Pit Bull or dog lover! Enjoy twelve months of beautiful Pit Bulls -- each one rescued from difficult circumstances by a reputable rescue group.

Winners and prizes will be chosen at random.

Prize: 3 Painted Pit Bulls 2014 Calendars and 3 For The Love of Pit Bulls 2014 Calendars

Dates: 10/12-10/26

Open to: US Residents18+

Enter to win using the Giveaway Tools Widget below. Good luck!

Disclosure: Epic Tales of a First Time Mom did not receive compensation for this post and is not responsible for prize fulfillment. Just sharing the Pit Bull love.

Entry-Form

The Sickness

Minion has had a runny nose for just over 2 weeks now and about a week ago had an on/off fever. The last week or so this has also been accompanied by a diapers rash (his 2nd one!) that just looks painful. Non of this has seemed to bother him and since the sitters baby hasn't been sick (they share binkies, cups and food) I have attributed it all to teething. I've been giving him Hyland's Baby Tiny Cold Tablets for a couple days and running the humidifier while he sleeps. This kid seriously hates having his nose even wipes let alone having the boogies sucked out... it's a battle. Recently it has been suggested that maybe he has allergies. That's completely plausible since I have seasonal allergies myself and they've been bothering me a little but not enough that it crossed my mind. I think I'm going to start giving him a small spoonful of local honey tonight and see if that helps too.

With that said. Hubby has been actually sick for the past few days (sore throat, running nose...) and is miserable. Now don't get me wrong when I'm sick I expect to be waited on hand and foot and I know I'm not at all pleasant to be around but it just amuses me that my 15 month old has had almost the same symptoms for 2 weeks now and has been acting like his normal happy self. Nothing at all against Hubby it just goes to show how resilient kids actually are (thank goodness because I don't think I could handle them both being whiny at the same time). So far, I'm doing pretty good and not feeling sick at all. *knocks on wood*

On a completely unrelated note, Hubby found a better paying job! I wish it would have come about 3 months ago so we wouldn't have had to move but hey, I'll take what I can get. That just means we can save more money to buy a house in a couple years. Who knows, maybe we can even replace the Kia with a newer (better) used car. I'm sure Hubby will want brand new but I really don't want to take on a car payment AND full coverage insurance so I think he's going to lose that battle.

Target $200 Gift Card Giveaway Opportunity

Christmas is almost here!!

We are giving away

a 

Target $200 Gift Card

-FREE Link with announcement (Twitter or Pinterest)

(go here for the announcement)

-Giveaway date:  October 14 to November 4

-Co-host $15.00

10 Links

2 Co-host pages

Extra links $1.50

Send payment to melisurveys1978@gmail.com

For more sign up events go here

Sign up Here

InnoTab 3S Giveaway Blogger Opportunity

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InnoTab 3S Giveaway

This giveaway is hosted by Empowered Mommy and Joys Of Life

FREE blogger opportunity with paid options. OPEN to US/CAN.

Prize: Vtech InnoTab Event Dates: October 15 - November 15 Sign-ups: October 12

Get 1 Free link (Facebook or Twitter) with announcement post. ($5 waiver fee without announcement post) Additional links for $3 each Co-host for $20- Get up-to 3 free additional links and a back-link to your blog on the final giveaway post. Host pages/Comment pages $10 each

The blog who refers the most bloggers will get free co-host spot. (If you paid for co-host and wins referral prize, your payment will be refunded)

Questions? Email me: admin@empoweredmommy.com

READY TO SIGN UP? CLICK HERE!

How much stress can one Mama handle?

It's been a while since my last post, I'm sorry for that. Things have been pretty crazy in my household and I've not been handling it very well. I mentioned before on Twitter and Facebook that we had to move because of money issues, we had to down size from a 3 bedroom house with a huge back yard to a 2 bedroom apartment in a complex. To make things worse, we could not take any of our beloved pets with us. We searched for a while for a place that would let us bring them but they all either said not (flat out or because of breeds...BSL really needs to stop) or we could not afford the extra rent they asked. Finally we couldn't wait any longer and had to move, re-homing 2 large dogs and 3 cats is not easy at all.

Floyd (5 year old cat) found a home with friends fairly quick but our other two cats sadly ended up in the shelter where I work and are still waiting to be adopted (if your looking for a cat and are in the Philadelphia area email me epictalesftm@gmail.com). It kills me to see them here everyday.

Deuce (12 year old Chow mix) already had some old man problems and in the process of trying to find him a home his back legs started to give out and sometimes he could not get up at all so Hubby and I made the heartbreaking decision to have him humanely euthanized. It was the worst day of my life and I don't think I've ever cried so much, it was about 3 weeks ago and I still cry all the time. I asked one of my managers at work to do it so it was less impersonal, Hubby and I were with him the entire time and he died looking into my eyes with my arms wrapped around him. I'm seriously crying right now as I type this. Deuce and I went through a lot together and he got me through some pretty tough times in my life, I've had him since before I was with Hubby. To make things worse, I didn't realize Hubby had never seem an animal euthanized before, it's hard enough to watch when you know what to expect but he went into it totally blind. I wish I would have known so I could have at least explained the process to him, he said he can never watch that again. I don't blame him. Having Deuce put to sleep was the kindest thing I could do for him and I know he's waiting for me in the after life, probably playing in the snow.

Alice (4 year old American Pit Bull Terrier) is a while other story that still doesn't have an end. My cousin (who is studying to be a veterinarian and is deaf) wanted her with the intention of training her to be a service dog but was in the process of moving to Iowa. Hubby and I were thrilled because being a service dog would mean she can go anywhere and Iowa is cold so it would be great for her allergies (that only flair up in the heat); we just needed a foster home for 1 month until she could get settled in to her new place. Foster home #1: Didn't feel right from the beginning. A family of 4 was looking to foster a dog to show their 2 children how much responsibility it was before making the commitment... I can respect that and thinks it's a pretty good idea, I just didn't realize neither of them ever had a dog before. We drove over an hour to their house and were very honest up front about her medical conditions, her barking and how strong she was and the family was perfectly fine with it until about 2 days later. They emailed my cousin and said she kept having accidents in the house, wasn't eating or taking her meds and barked at everyone and their neighbors did not like a Pit Bull in the area. They didn't want to deal with any adjustment period on Alice's part and just wanted her gone, they did offer to take her to where ever she was going though. Foster #2: Another family member, loves dogs. Seemed like the perfect solution until their resident dog tried to attack Alice not even 30 minutes after she arrived. They brought her to our house as we were literally in the process of moving out on our last day there. Our landlord was nice enough to let us keep her there for 2 nights (Hubby stayed there with her) after which she went to Foster #3. Hubby's manager: A bachelor with dog experience living in Philly, when I dropped her off he told me he did not expect us to take him up on his offer and 2 days later I had to pick her up because she didn't fit his life style. We were out of options and I had to bring her to the shelter. I knew she wouldn't do well there, she's not crate trained so she would hate the cages and special needs dogs don't usually get placed. As I was about to do her intake one of my co-workers found a volunteer who knew someone tat could take in a foster. I waited around for over an hour when she and her kids finally showed up. Foster #4: They had special needs dog experience and seemed nice but again a few days later she called me and said Alice tried to attack one of her cats (which I still don't understand because Alice has lived with cats her whole life). She agreed to keep her one more night since it was later and Minion was sleeping so the next day I picked her up while I was at work and brought her back to the shelter. She was so depressed and it was very hard to see her like that, she's such a bubbly dog normally. The next day she caught another break! A boarding facility the shelter works with previously offered space to a dog with a home that couldn't take them right away. My cousin still wanted her so off she went and her updates said she was doing very well there. Then the airline jacked up her plane ticket to over $500 and said because she is dangerous (based solely on her breed) she needed a special metal kennel that would cost almost $1000, non of us could afford that but my cousin quickly decided that she would just drive the 18 hours here and back to pick Alice up. Now we just need a foster for 1 night on September 27 till the 28th when my cousin gets to town. I refuse to believe it's over until she is safely in Iowa.

As I'm sure you can imagine my stress level has been through the roof lately, all this on top of getting rid of things we no longer have room for and funding a place for the things we can't get rid of (like Halloween and Christmas decorations since our apt complex has no storage). Aside from the lack of space, the apartment isn't too bad, it has a 24 hour gym and a pool I'm pretty sure most of the Philadelphia Soul players live in my building, I guess they don't get paid like the pros (no I'm not at all surprised). It's all just an adjustment, neither one of us really likes change (although I can tolerate it better then he can) so it's been interesting to say the least. My body is also still out of whack from Minion causing me to be extra moody. Poor Hubby, I'm pretty sure I take most of it out on him. I just keep trying to tell myself we only have to stay here a couple years until we can save enough to buy a house of our own, things are already looking up, Hubby has a job interview on Friday. Pray it goes well.

Baby Essentials Giveaway!

Welcome to the Baby Essentials Giveaway

hosted by: Thrifty Nifty Mommy and Mommys Craft Obsession

Epic Tales of a First Time Mom is happy to participate in this giveaway and wishes you all luck at winning a prize!

The Tortle

Tortle is a simple, comfortable beanie that helps prevent and treat early stages flat head syndrome: plagiocephaly & torticollis. It makes the job of repositioning newborns safe and easy. It is recommended that all newborns wear a Tortle for the first few months of life to aid in repositioning; which supports healthy development. Tortle works by gently deflecting your baby’s head when she's sitting or lying on the back of her head, to gently move her head from side to side.

The incidence of plagiocephaly and torticollis (or flat head syndrome) has increased by 600% since 1992 due to the amount of time infants spend on their back (the safest place to be). However, if left untreated, treatment is expensive and can be hard on the baby. Moreover, long term developmental delays can occur. But plagiocephaly and torticollis almost 100% preventable with repositioning, which Tortle makes easy.

2 Red Hens Rooster Diaper Bag:

The Rooster Diaper Bag is the most popular bag from 2 Red Hens. To a passerby, the Rooster bag looks like a cute purse, but look inside, and you’ll see the functionality that every mom needs in a diaper bag. With an interior zipper pocket, bottle holder and 2 elastic pockets, organization is a cinch! And, never dig for your keys again with an attached key Fob for easy access! Other features include: removable stroller straps, magnetic snap & button for extra security, water-resistant backing for easy, wipe-down cleaning, & extra-long polka-dot changing pad (26" x 12.5").

MAM Products:

Behind each MAM innovation is a perfect combination of medical and technical expertise. Internationally recognized designers, medical professionals and developmental psychologists collaborate to develop safe and innovative baby products. For this reason, MAM's mission is to provide babies with an optimal start in life and cool, easy style for their parents! At MAM you'll find lots of great BPA-Free products including pacifiers, sippy cups, bottles, teethers, and more!

This prize package ARV is $95!

Enter using the Giveaway Tools form below.  Good Luck!

Open to the US only.  Ends 8/16/13 at 11:59 PM EST.

Entry-Form

Disclosure: No compensation was received in exchange for hosting this giveaway.  The participating bloggers are not responsible for prize fulfillment.

Still no mama...

It didn't bother me when Minion's first word was Dada, after all it is easier for a baby to say and he's still a Mama's Boy so I was happy to throw Hubby a bone. At almost 13 months he now says a lot of words: Dad, Daddy, Dog, Juice, Tickle, Hi, No... and a few others we can make out that most people probably wouldn't understand. As proud as I am that he is picking everything up, I'd be be a liar if I said I'm not upset that he doesn't say Mama yet. Every day Hubby and I try to get him to say it and he just laughs, he knows I'm Mama and what it means but it never comes out of his mouth. Sigh. I'm starting to think he will never say my name. I feel strange wondering if this is normal, but I also can't help it. Call me selfish. I guess I just assumed it would be one of his first few words. I do love to hear him babble even when it's not understandable. Oh well, hopefully I'll get to hear it by 15 months.

What was your baby's first word?

Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day to all the Daddys. Any guy can be a Father but it takes a real man (& a special one at that) to be a Dad. Minion is lucky to have one of the best :-) Also Happy Day to the single Mamas pulling double duty, you deserve both days!

Timbutt2oos Review

So I've talked before about my extreme love for gDiapers (it's more of an obsession really), I just can't get enough of them. A few months ago I came across a diaper making mama in my local cloth diapering group, she makes Timbutt2oos. I "liked" her page on Facebook but wasn't sure I would ever actually order anything since I've never used anything but my beloved gs... Then I saw the galaxy print. It's beautiful and I had to have it so I ordered a pocket diaper, the mama was so nice and asked the dimensions of the inserts I currently use so that I can use them as well and she also included 2 inserts of her own instead of one.



Once I received the diaper I was in love with the print even more, so much cuter in person. That being said, I was confused as to how to get it on Minion since it has a bunch of buttons instead of Velcro like the diapers I normally use. I prepped and dried the diaper and decided to try putting it together off of Minion first, I thought I had it figured out but somehow having it on him made a difference (all of his squirming didn't help much) and I was lost all over again. The first time I out it on him it was really loose around the legs and I actually didn't keep it on him long, 1. because he needed a bath and 2. because I was afraid it was going to leak. I contacted the mama and she got right back to me explaining a bit how it worked (great customer service) I was going to take it to the sitter's with me because she uses them too but I ended up figuring it out before I got the chance (AKA before I remembered to pack it).

The next time I put it on him, I used one insert and it held up really well, he had it on for about 2 hours with no leaks. I'm not sure it was on the "right" way but it worked and there was no gaps anywhere. It is a bit bulkier then the diapers I normally use but that's not really a big deal to me. I put it to the test last night and used it as an overnight diaper with both inserts instead of disposables like I normally do, up until last night I have not been able to find a cloth combination that Minion doesn't leak though at night. When we got up this morning and Hubby changed him I was in awe, not only were his jammies and outside of the diaper completely dry but it also contained a massive messy poop. I can not tell you how impressed I am. I can't wait to wash, dry and use it again as my overnight diaper, I'd love to be able to get rid of disposables all together.

When I ordered the galaxy, I had also ordered another print which had not come in stock yet. Originally when I was having fitting issues I had asked her to make it into a wet bag for me instead because I didn't think I was going to get it to work out, sadly there were some issues with her source and the print was unavailable. I was offered a refund or to pick another print, I went with the refund just because we were short on cash at the time but now I really with I had ordered another diaper. I figure if I have at least 4 that would be enough for nighttime and maybe I'll get a few more and put them in my daytime rotation. I'm hoping by the end of the summer to never have to buy disposables again! I'm not sure how happy Hubby will be about that but that's my goal. HEHE.

Mama Love Giveaway!

Epic Tales of a First Time Mom is so excited to bring you an amazing Mama Love event for moms and babies.

Hosted by: So Sew Mama

We have put together two separate prize packs for you! One for the pregnant/new mama and one for the cloth diapering mama! There is over $300 in Prizes up for grabs!

This contest is being hosted by the awesome So Sew Mama, be sure to check out her blog and send some love. Thank you.

Mama and Baby Prize

$50 gift card to LePetit Mon Ami on Etsy. Check out So Sew Mama's review!

$25 gift card to The bird and elephant on Etsy

Maternity Gown from Mommy Moxie! A $60 Value!

$25 Gift card to Pink Blush Maternity! Read the review!

Momo Baby Soft Sole shoes! A $19 value! Read the full review.

Jack and Lily Soft Sole Shoes! valued at $30. Check out the review.

Fluffy Mail Prize 

earthLINGZs AI2 Hybrid diaper. Read the full review at So Sew Mama.

 Dreaming in Cotton Cloth diaper! Read the review here at So Sew Mama.

Brown Cow Cotton diaper shell. Read So Sew Mama's review!

(please note that the diapers are probably more girly.)

This giveaway will be live from June 12 to June 24. you must be 18 years old or older to enter and live within the US. no P.O boxes. All additional entries increase the odds of winning. Please leave the best email to reach you in the rafflecopter. Winners who do not respond within 48 hours will lose their prize and the runner up will be emailed. All entries are verified by Desiree. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway * Disclosure: Epic Tales of a First Time Mom and So Sew Mama was not compensated for this post. So Sew Mama received the mentioned products to review, all views are 100% So Sew Mama's. This blog and participating bloggers are not responsible for prize shipment. I am disclosing this due to the FTC guidelines. If you have any questions or wish to have your product featured on So Sew Mama, please contact Desiree. 

Party Planning

Minion will be 1 in a month! I can't believe it, where has the time gone? We decided to so "The Notekins" from Baby First TV for the theme since Minion loves music. For a while that show was magic, if he was crying and it came on...he instantly stopped. That doesn't work now of course but he still loves it. The show teaches pitch, harmony, tempo and more all while entertaining with gentle music. I think I have a future musician on my hands and I love it. It's kind of hard party planning when your theme is not common enough to find in any stores but that also means I have to make most of the decorations which will save us a ton of money. The Notekins each stand for a different music note and are each a different color so I'm going to get plates, napkins, plastic wear etc. from the dollar store because they have all different colors that way I can just mix it up to match the theme. Most of the decorations I should be able to make with my Cricut which will take a lot of time (and I don't have much to spare) but I know I will get exactly what I want that way. The invitations were easy. I just Google image searched The Notekins and added the party info to the one I liked best on Photobucket, a friend of mine has a connection at Staples and offered to print them out for me free of charge.

One of the hardest decisions was figuring out where to have the party. I don't really want to have it at our house because my family is huge so even planning for immediate family (which to me means aunts, uncle and cousins) is a lot. We also don't have any entertainment for the kids and I always get nervous that someone will let the dogs out (our yard is not fenced in), we also can't really afford to rent a place out. We finally decided on a park near the river with a pretty nice size playground. It has covered tables and bathrooms, basically everything we need. We were originally going to bring the grill but are now going to get hoagie trays so no one have to man the grill for the whole party. Of course I'll make potato salad and all too.

A few months ago I had a vanilla gDiaper customized from Paint Spatter Designs by Audrina Leigh Zaczyk and it's been so hard not to put it on him but I've been to afraid it will get messed up. I had a second one made too (which has also not been on the butt yet), Audrina is so talented, her shop is closed now because she just had a baby but I'm hoping she opens back up soon because I need some more of her work. She has a Batman design I'd love to get my hands on.


This is the birthday diaper.


And this is the other one. Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas is one of my obsessions.

I have not picked an outfit yet... I suppose I should get on that. I suppose I could make him a shirt as well now that Cricut has iron on fabric.

I'm both excited and sad about his birthday. I don't know where the time has gone, I feel like he was just born but I love watching him learn new things. He's definitely a Mama's boy but he gets a little more independent every day, except of course when he's teething like the last couple of days. In one month my baby boy will no longer be an infant but a toddler. I'm not sure how I feel about that, my baby is growing up.

Mama Love Giveaway Event

Mama Love Giveaway Event
Blogger Opp

June 12 - 24

Hosted By: So Sew Mama

Some of the awesome prizes are sponsored by:

First Prize: For Mama & Baby

Jack and Lily Foot Wear

Somewhere Over The Rainbow

Momo Baby

Bird and Elephant

Le Petit Mon Ami

Mommy Moxie

Second Prize: Cloth Diapers

Dreaming in Cotton

earthLINGZ diapers

Brown Cow Cotton

Still adding more prizes! If you want your product featured please contact Desiree.

Free Twitter link with announcement post!

Additional links available for purchase.

Co Host spots and Host pages available.

For more info, and to sign up for this event go to this form.

Lose - Lose situation

Today I did something I swore I would never do, I have even been known to judge people for it... I'll think twice next time.

It's no secret the we have a lot of animals (2 big dogs and 4 cats), when I announced I that I was expecting many people's first question was "Are you getting rid of any of the animals?" It always made me really mad, of course I wasn't getting rid of any of them, they are family and I made them a promise to care for them for the rest of their lives. Most of them are rescues (except 2 sibling cats I got from a friend) and had a rough start to life, I never thought anything would make me change my mind. I was wrong.

During my pregnancy one of my cats, Freddie Mercury, started acting different and losing fur. No one has fleas, I tried vitamins & different food but nothing helped. After Minion was born, the hair lose got worse so I took him to the vet. He was tested for ringworm and other skin issues but all came back normal, based on that, his acting out and a few other things the vet (who I trust very much) suggested that he was jealous of Minion. I was very upset and didn't know what to do, I contacted the cat behaviorist at my shelter but none of her suggestions help. We discussed re-homing him but neither of us really wanted to and we also didn't know anyone looking for a cat so we were just dealing with it. Then he started hissing at Minion and I became really concerned, again we discussed re-homing him but still couldn't find anyone.

Then, just a few weeks ago, he scratched Minion on the arm. Minion didn't even notice it and it barely bled but that didn't change the fact that it happened. What if next time it's worse or his face or he bites instead. I can't risk that. I knew I had to bring him to my shelter and hope that someone would adopt him. I waited 10 days so that he would not need to be on a quarantine (which would significantly hinder his chances of getting adopted) and brought him in today. It was such a horrible drive to work with him in the passenger seat next to me meowing to be let out of the carrier. I cried during his entire intake and brought him back to his temporary cage myself, turns out I would be cleaning that room today. I was really upset about it at first but ended up being grateful because I could keep an eye on him and do my best to make sure he was comfortable. I asked he vet tech who was checking cats in (giving them their shots and what not) to please do him so that he could be moved to the adoption room ASAP for the big event we are having this weekend. I was petrified he would be out to sleep since he looks funny with the missing fur and can not go to a home with children. I was glad to be working alone today.

Around 1:30pm a member of our life savings department (they work with rescues to get animals out and run the foster program) came and told me he was being sent to one of our rescue partners. I cried again, I was so happy he was being saved but sad that I would never see him again. Going to a rescue means he won't be out to sleep and has a much better chance at being adopted. When the rescue came to pick him and the other cats they were taking up, I was able to pack him up and say my final goodbye (which of course made me cry AGAIN! He looked so sad and tried to cling to me so I just held him for a little while, but eventually the rescue had to leave so I put him in the carrier, told him I loved him again and wished his well. I also told him to behave so he came find an awesome home with no kids and plenty of affection.

It was a horrible day but I know that I made the right choice for him and Minion. Maybe now he won't be so stressed out and will stopped pulling out his fur. I'm going to think about him forever and hope that he's happy and doesn't think we abandoned him. We did everything we could to try and make it work but it just wasn't happening. My house seems quiet without him even with the other animals. I hope this is something I will never have to go through again.