A Mommy's Blessings

A Hard Decision

2012-04-17T16:12:00.000-04:00

I need a break.

A long break.

From blogging.

Ouch.

It hurts to say that.

And honestly, I don't want to......

But I have to.

After weeks of tossing and turning the idea, going crazy with my decision, having hubby listen to me whine about going back and forth on what to do (sorry honey!), and waiting for peace with it all in prayer....I have made up my mind. And it was such a heart wrenching decision.

I can't do this anymore.

At least right now.

After Jonathan and Asher, I am having such a hard time getting my life back into groove.

I'm just so busy. And both physically, and emotionally, I can't keep up.

My Etsy store is soaring off, and I am swamped with orders, dedicating most all of my free time.

My children are getting older, faster then I can blink, and demanding much more of my nurturing....especially with 4 of them currently at the place in schooling where they aren't quite independent and I am pulled in a million directions for hours during their teaching. Not to mention, trying to teach them more life skills requires alot more time from me.

I am currently trying to launch my small baby loss ministry, On The Wings Of A Butterfly, and I really need to take the time to focus on it. Not to mention....I need the healing from it as well. Because I am totally not healed, if the flood of tears flowing more often nowadays is any indication.

And most of the times, my thoughts are so cloudy and jumbled; trying to bring out my old witty/fun self in words can be overly stressful. A burden really. Blogging isn't fun for me anymore. At least right now. It's instead become enough to give me an emotional meltdown when I know I must post something, but can't get my thoughts in line to actually do it.

I feel like I am burning the candle at both ends, and the wick is quickly running out.

I. Just. Can't. Do. It. All.

And oooohhhh, it pains me to give up this blog for now.

To give up all of you.

Do you know how much like a failure I feel?

Like a disappointment to not only all of you, but myself?

I, Holly, "Miss Practically Perfect In Every Way" (sarcasm), cannot do everything.

I love that I have been able to help so many, and bless you all for these years. I will miss sharing with you so much! And I equally hate knowing I must give that up.

But right now, I need to step back, re-prioritize, get my body back in line (since the stress after both death's of my boys have driven it super wonky), and mentally allow myself to grieve and heal.

For my own sanity.

I will be back.

I know I will.

But it will be a while.

A long while.

I will keep my blog up here and accessible, and hopefully check in every once in awhile until life seems to allow it back into it's routine again.

In the meantime, thank you for being such good friends to me.

I am so happy to have had you all in my life!

If any of you ever want to talk, or just to drop a line, you can email me directly at amommysblessings@gmail.com

Don't be strangers, please!

Until then...I wish you sweet blessings and happy days.

The Mulled Mind: Stainless Steel Drinking Straws!

2012-04-17T15:33:00.000-04:00

Stainless steel straws.

How awesome is that?

No more worries about nasty plastic in your drink (what kind of plastic are those bendy straws made from anyways?).

No more straws all chewed out of shape and therefore rendered useless 22 times in one meal.

No more wasted money or environmental un-friendly hazards (I hate those straw bans at the zoos!).

Yes, stainless steel straws are my bestest new friend, all thanks to that genius minded mama at The Mulled Mind.

Miss Heather Melling, the owner of The Mulled Mind, is a mechanical engineer who uses her skills and creativity to come to the rescue of straw addicted families like mine.

We make smoothies every weekday for breakfast in our home. According to my children (and hubby) straws are mandatory. No if's, and's, or but's. So we used 'em...those evil bendy straws, which I'm sure were leaching icky chemicals into our super healthy smoothies. Kinda' defeats the purpose, no?

Not to mention, it put a damper on my busy mornings when I had to bite them back into shape 256 times during a 10 minute time span....just for my children to chew back flat again. Yes, and those were the annoying straws we tried to wash and reuse at least few times. Key word "try".

BUT, we love our stainless steel straws from The Mulled Mind! (In fact, we just ordered 8 more!)

What make these so amazing?

They are wonderfully made, super sturdy, won't break, easy to clean (and for those pesky smoothie straws, just use a pipe cleaner!), and reusable.

Not to mention super affordable....only average of $8 for a set of 4 regular straws. Plus you can order a variety of diameters and lengths from smoothie sized to cocktail straws.

Best of all? Each one is handmade with care just for you by one very talented lady. :o)

Looking for the newest way to make your life a little greener? Then you totally have to add these stainless steel straws to your list from The Mulled Mind!

Oh Happy Day...He Is Risen!

2012-04-08T07:21:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter!

Gourmet Gift Baskets Brownie Sampler (Giveaway!)

2012-04-06T17:50:00.000-04:00

Ok.

So just because we cook everything from scratch in this house (with whole wheat flour and raw sugar, mind you), does not mean I don't like to splurge on a few naughty things in my secret "hide in the bathroom from the children to eat this" stash.

My favorite thing in that little goodie bag of mine?

Brownies.

Well, that and anything else chocolate.

But brownies hold a special place in my heart.

Moist.

Chewy.

Chocolatey.

Yum.

So, of course when one of my favorite sponsors contacted me about doing a review again for them, this time for brownies, I of course had to refuse.

Um. NOT.

Gourmet Gift Baskets blessed me with their yummy Brownie Sampler, with amazing brownie goodness in 6 different flavors (2 of each!).

Belgian Chocolate Chunk

White Chocolate Macadamia Blondie

Peanut Butter

Cheesecake

Fudge Walnut

Butterscotch Blondie

Can we say "heaven"?

Each of these brownies were anything but wholesome and good for you. But that's the point.

They were amazing treats that I thoroughly enjoyed.

And I even shared with hubby and the children.

Aren't I so sweet?

Each brownie was individually wrapped, deliciously moist, soft, chewy, and absolutely full of sinfully rich flavor.

My favorite?

Cheesecake. A thick brownie layer, with an equally thick layer of creamy cheesecake, and drizzled with chocolate ganache.

Drool.

And then, you have that amazing combination of the White Chcolate Macadamia Nut Blondie, with sweet white chocolate chips in a gooey bar, sprinkled throughout with crunchy macadamia nuts, and ohhhh....

Ok.

Enough torture for you all.

Gourmet Gift Baskets has other amazing samplers, as well as the lovely brownie goodness basket that I am tempting you with.

With Mother's Day right around the corner, what better gift could any girl ask for then naughty food delivered right to her door?

;o)

Win It!

One extremely lucky mama will win a Brownie Sampler (with one of each flavor) from Gourmet Gift Baskets!

Here's how to enter:

(Must be a follower of this blog (found on the right) for entries to count!)

1. Tell me what flavor you would like best! (This is mandatory and must be done first before any other entry will be considered.)

2. Like Gourmet Gift Baskets on Facebook, and let me know!

3. Follow Gourmet Gift Baskets on Twitter.

4. Follow A Mommy's Blessings on Facebook or Twitter and leave a separate comment for each.

5. Blog about this contest, and leave a comment with your link.

I will end this giveaway on Friday, April 20th.

Good luck!

Watch 'Children Are A Blessing' For Free!

2012-04-06T16:53:00.001-04:00

Children are a blessing.

Didn't ya' know?

The sad fact is, so many people, even Christians, sure don't act like it.

What a sad, sad state we live in.

My friend's, the Moore's, have a wonderful documentary about just that.

I have shared before how this is such an amazing video and a much needed ministry.

Well now, for the whole month of April, you can watch the whole video online, for free!

Children are a Blessing from Moore Family Films on Vimeo.

There is a popular saying in the Church today: "If the Lord is not the Lord of all, He is not Lord at all." Of course, the Lord is the Lord of all whether we acknowledge Him as Sovereign over all things or not. What is meant by this phrase is that we as Christians desire to submit willingly to the Lord in every area of our lives. But do we? Does just saying this make it so? We must look to the Word of God to provide us with the answers to all the issues of life and from a willing heart, obey the principles found therein.

The opening and closing of the womb is clearly articulated in Scripture to be the work of Lord (see Gen. 20:18, Gen. 29:31, Gen. 30:2 and 22, 1 Sam. 1:5-6). So, does it please the Lord when His people prevent the blessing of children and attempt to control the womb? Has He changed His position on this issue or have we? Is it really the "responsible thing to do," or could it be an attempt to thwart God's plan for our families? Who or what should determine the number of children we should have: our friends or relatives, our career, the size of our house or vehicle, earthly treasures, our weekly paycheck, or just simply our own desires? Should this be the standard by which we decide, or have we ever stopped to ask God how many children He has "planned" for our families? Shouldn't we as Christians simply and willingly trust Him to open and close the womb as He sees fit and as His Word declares?

Interestingly, the term pro-life is used to describe the anti-abortion stance, and rightly so; however, the very name means "for life," also implying "not preventing life." Should we not also consider that the prevention of children with potentially abortifacient drugs (such as the birth control pill) or other methods of "planning" family size would be wrong as well? Is a chemically induced abortion any better than a surgical one? The only difference is that with the former method no one really knows how many children have been aborted and with the latter it is, of course, obvious. Regretfully, my wife and I speak from experience. We understand all the arguments, but the bottom line is: if we value life, we must value it on God's terms, not ours! (For additional reading, check out Nancy Campbell's book Be Fruitful and Multiply, A Full Quiver by Rick and Jan Hess, and the article How "The Pill" Led To Societal Infantilism by Geoffry Botkin).

The purpose of Children are a Blessing is to encourage families to trust in the truth of the Word of God for the blessing of children and to heighten awareness of how humanistic and secular philosophies have impacted our thinking and ultimately our actions. Sadly, even most of the church today has been impacted by these philosophies. May the Lord remove the scales from our eyes, the deception from our minds, and awaken us from our slumber to clearly see His everlasting and unchanging Truth- that children are a gift from Him to be raised for His glory, no matter how many He chooses to give us (See Psalm 127-128)!

Please, I beg of you to take me up on watching this!

Whether you are on the fence about letting God control your family size, or know someone who could use this message from God's word, this video is for you.

(Or, if you just want to see some adorable children, have a few giggles along with a loving family, and be encouraged, this video is for you as well!)

And, if you find it to be a blessing to you and your family, and would like a hard copy for yourself, Children Are A Blessing is on sale this month as well for only $10.00 (regular $15.99.)

Enjoy!

Asher's Box

2012-04-04T17:07:00.000-04:00

Both Jonathan's and Asher's memory boxes are two of my most treasured possessions.

I love pulling them out and constantly fingering each of the trinkets, looking at their photos, reading the heartfelt cards from friends, snuggling with the blankets that wrapped each of my boys...these boxes, and what is inside them, are so important to me.

In a way, it allows me to hold them once again.

I love filling them with new items...certificates with their names, special gifts for them from friends, and so much more. Each time I open the box to add another treasure, it brings my boys back to life for just one more tiny moment.

It gives me a smile on my face, and joy in my heart, to remember the days with them snuggled in my womb.

Days before the never ending pain began.

I have shown you before some of the amazing gifts I have been blessed with for Jonathan's box.

Today, I thought I'd share some of the newer items I have added, and give you a "tour" of my sweet Asher's, as well.

This is Asher's wooden chest, smaller and simpler then Jonathan's, along with his rainbow sock monkey (for the rainbow baby he was!), and his Comfort Bear from Sufficient Grace ministries.

His bear, along with his (well loved and showing it!) big brother's. :o)

This is a beautiful picture I received from a dear BLM friend of mine.

Doesn't it describe every mama's heart and hope who has lost a child?

The hankies (to wipe away our tears) with their names embroidered by Lil Angels Hankies.

I just love staring at their names!

These pendants are made by my sweet friend Celia, yet another baby loss mama.

Her ministry is wonderful, and these are one of my favorite items tucked close to my heart.

Asher <3

Jonathan <3

Have any of you heard this cd?

It was given to me by our friends, the Moore Family.

I tell you, the Biblical Theology of Miscarriage is perfect for aching hearts who are searching for understanding and hope.

Everything all tucked in Asher's box.

Including his little angel nestled on a miniscule blanket that matches the one he was buried in.

And I couldn't forget showing you Little Baby Blessing's bag, which I tuck in Asher's box as well!

Blessing.

Jonathan.

Asher.

All of my sweet babies.

And such joyful ways to treasure them.

Bobble Bots Moshi Monsters (Giveaway)

2012-04-04T15:33:00.000-04:00

I had never heard of Moshi Monsters before. So when I was offered the chance to review Bobble Bots Moshi Monsters from Innovation First Labs (the company behind HEXBUG Micro Robotic Creatures), I certainly was interested in trying them out for my littles.

After all, the HEXBUGs, were pretty neat and creatively stimulating...I figured these would be just as fun, but it a cute, monster type of way. ;o)

Bobble Bots Moshi Monsters are a brand new, explorative and collectible line of bobble-head mini monsters and playsets that bring the hugely popular online world of MoshiMonsters.com to life.
These battery-operated Moshlings critters use patented Nano vibration technology to buzz around their unique, customizable 3-D “dollhouse” replicas of the same streets, yards, buildings and houses found online in Moshi Monsters’ Monstro City. Every Bobble Bots Moshi Monsters product even include secret codes to unlock new content in the online world at www.moshimonsters.com.

Sounds super fun.

Unfortunately, these didn't meet my hopes for the new, imaginitive play-toy that I had hoped for my littles.

They were....interesting, to say the least.

But unless you are particularly into the Moshi Monster craze, I don't know if this is necessarily the toy for you.

We received a Bobble Bots Moshi Monsters Moshling (Coolio)

One Bobble Bots Moshi Monsters Store (Yukeo) with Pinky the Moshling

And one Bobble Bots Moshi Monsters Starter Set with Stanley the Moshling

Each playset is fully customizable, to the point where you can attatch them to eachother and create one mega city, add/take away rocks and grass, etc.
And of course each playset and Bobble Monster comes with a secret code to unlock online and create your own online Moshi world.

Why did I say you might not enjoy these?

Well, yes, you can have fun snapping together the playsets and rearranging them.

Yes, you can have fun watching them bobble around their shops (for about 2 minutes).

Yes, you can have fun building your world online with the codes.

And that's about it.

But to me, and my children, these were a bit corny.

They reminded me of hyperactive, wind-up toys, on steroids.

Make that loud, hyperactive, wind-up toys on steroids.

They didn't seem very "stimulating for creativity" to me.

They actually seemed, well...pointless.

I was disappointed they weren't even half as cute as what they seemed like in their pictures, and really disappointed the the Yukea Store, as well as the other Main Street stores I see, are made of thick cardboard instead of plastic like the rest of the playsets. It will very quickly receive wear and tear.

Alrighty, so I hate being a spoilsport.

You might totally like these guys, especially if your children already enjoy the Moshi Monster online world.

But for me, my littles, and alot of mom's out there, I think we'd prefer something with a bit more imaginative play.

Unfortunately, I am very sorry to say these don't get a very raving review from my children and I.

(But, I won't stop you from creating your our own opinion!)

Win It!

One of you will win a Bobble Bots Moshi Monsters Starter Set to try out for yourself.

Here's how to enter:

(Must be a follower of this blog (found on the right) for entries to count!)

1. Tell me what you think you'd like about the Bobble Bots Moshi Monsters! (This is mandatory and must be done first before any other entry will be considered.)

2. Follow A Mommy's Blessings on Facebook or Twitter and leave a separate comment for each.

3. Blog about this contest, and leave a comment with your link.

I will end this giveaway on Wednesday, April 18th.

Good luck!

Doin' The Light Jig

2012-04-02T13:22:00.001-04:00

For the past few months, Little Miss Ashley has been learning Irish Step Dancing, taught by yours truly. :o)

I love seeing how much she is advancing, and she is having a blast learning dance, that actually has some heritage behind it.

Plus Celtic music is ridiculously fun!

She has asked over and over again to make a video of her, so yesterday during "dance class", that's exactly what we did.

She has a bit of fine tuning to do, but she has pretty much mastered the Light Jig, and is now working in the Beginner's Reel.

So here she is, Ashley girl in all her glory!

Homemade Fig Newtons

2012-03-30T16:36:00.000-04:00

Remember Fig Newtons?

Those lonely little cookie bars that everyone seems to purposely pass by in the cookie aisle?

After all, when shopping for cookies, who would want something that wasn't chocolate, with chocolate cream, chocolate chips, and smothered in a (double) layer of chocolate?

Seriously...can they even be called cookies?

I remember my grandparents always having those in the cupboard to snack on.

No thanks.

Those are for old people.

Gimme' an Oreo.

Well time has passed, and my grown up taste buds have filled in as well.

Now I understand their love for those nostalgic treasures.

The soft cookie, wrapped around a slightly spiced, chewy center.

Simple, wholesome, and plain old delicious.

Mr. Newton, I appreciate your diligence to create such a yummy snack, in the midst of all the chocolate chip naysayers.

(Although....I'd still rather have an Oreo!)

A few weeks ago, my neighbor gave me bags, and bags, and bags of dried figs.

Hey, who am I to pass up free, snacking goodness for my littles?

We munched and munched.

We chewed and chewed.

And then I contemplated what else we could use these little buggers for....

Granola bars?

Eh.

Figgy bread?

Maybe.

Aha!

Fig newtons!

There had to be a recipe somewhere for those old fashioned goodies.

By golly, yup there was.

But of course, being the difficult chef that I am, had to change the recipe around ~~a bunch~~ a bit to fit our own preferences.

And here is what I came up with.

Mmmmm.

Soft, chewy, figgy goodness.

And not only that, extremely healthy.

In fact, because we use things like fresh ground, whole wheat flour and sucanat, I didn't feel the least bit guilty in feeding these to my children for their lunch with a glass of milk.
Well, plus I really wanted one, and the littles saw me sneaking it. So I had to share......

The dough can be a bit tricky to work with, so mine didn't come out very pretty.

But hey, ugly food can taste good too.

Homemade Fig Newtons

For the filling:
2 heaping cups of dried figs
2 cups orange juice
1/2 cup sugar

For the cookie dough:
1 cup softened butter
1 cup sugar
1 tsp orange zest
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups flour

To make the dough, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, orange zest, and the vanilla, and beat everything together. Add the flour, and mix on low until everything is well mixed.
When you're finished, you should have a soft dough similar to a sugar cookie dough. Refrigerate until firm enough to roll (about 2 hours, or freeze for 1/2 an hour.)

Chop your figs, and place them in a pot with the sugar and orange juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until figs are breaking down (about 20 minutes or so.) Stir and once and awhile so they don't scorch! Let the filling cool, then puree in your food processor until smooth..

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
Take your chilled dough from the refrigerator and dust a work surface with flour. Working quickly, roll the dough out into a very thin rectangle, about 16 inches long by 12 inches high. Cut your dough into 4 long strips. (Or if you want fatter, snack sized bars, you can do 3 strips.)

Spread the fig mixture along the center of each strip of dough. Gently fold one side over the fig mixture, then fold the second side over the first, so that you are left with a long tube of dough enclosing the fig filling. Repeat on all of the strips.
Slice each strip into desired cookie size, and transfer to a greased cookie sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, until they're puffed and golden around the edges.

Also, these taste even better the next day, and even more authentic if you let them sit in a sealed container for awhile to soften and let the flavors meld. Trust me!

Now, go and get figgy with it!

Heehee.

Beyond Word Designs: Donate Art Project

2012-03-29T15:50:00.002-04:00

I have met some amazing people in the baby loss realm.

The sweetest, most beautiful mamas, who actually get what this pain of burying a child is like.

I have learned through them, how to hope.

How to heal.

And for many of them, it is through ministering to others with art.

Aren't these beautiful?

Stephanie at Beyond Words Designs knows how to speak to the heart of hurting mamas, because she has been there herself.

She creates gorgeous artwork, that mends to the broken soul, and gives joy to the weary.

These two portraits of hers have become my daily balm.

As she says...they have helped me to celebrate life!

Even my Ashley girl is in love with her art, and has admiringly drawn her own versions of Steph's work!

:o)

Stephenie is such a blessing to so many.

And with her Donate Art ministry, she is working to give her beautiful artwork cards into memory boxes for other grieving mothers.

I know I would have loved to have something as touching as her masterpieces to bring comfort during one of the hardest days of my life.

As I seek to start my own baby loss ministry to local hospitals, as well as online, I can only pray that I may help the hurting as much as Stephanie does.

Mikarose: Reinventing Modesty ($50 Giveaway!)

2012-03-27T13:19:00.001-04:00

I love hunting for adorable clothes.

But it's hard to find something very often that fits my criteria...

Cute, chic, classy (yet stylish), and it helps if it has some of that 1950's vintage flair that fits my personality. ;o)

Oh yeah.

And modest.

It must be modest...you know...where things are actually covered, and I look like a lady?

Yup. Not an easy task to stumble upon such a gem, even at the thrift store.

Ohhh...but then there is a company like Mikarose, who makes my search a whole lot easier!

Super cute dresses, tops, skirts, and more!

All super modest, and better yet....really affordable!

And you have to check out their clearance section!

LOVE their clothes!

Win It!

*This giveaway is now closed*

One lucky mama will win a $50 gift certificate to Mikarose!

Here's how to enter:

(Must be a follower of this blog (found on the right) for entries to count!)

1. Visit Mikarose and tell me what you would get if you won! (This is mandatory and must be done first before any other entry will be considered.)

2. Like Mikarose on Facebook and let me know.

3. Post about this giveaway on your Facebook, including the link to mikarose.com

4. Pin your favorite item!

5. Follow A Mommy's Blessings on Facebook or Twitter and leave a separate comment for each.

6. Blog about this contest, and leave a comment with your link.

I will end this giveaway on Tuesday, April 10th.

Good luck!

Eggplant Mushroom Currey

2012-03-26T15:13:00.001-04:00

I hate mushrooms.

You know....that fungus?

Those slimy, earthy tasting things, that are in the same category as mold?

Yeah. Those.

Ok. I take that back. I can put up with them if they are hardly there, mixed with tons of other actually yummy food, and cooked to death. But that's about it.

Barely.

If I must.

Because they are a fungus.

Fungus.

Gag.

And I am sorry, I apologize to all of you mushroom lovers out there, but....

No, wait a minute.

I don't.

You guys have some serious problems. ;o)

So yeah. Where was I?

Oh yes. Telling you how much I hate ~~mildew~~ mushrooms.

Yuppers.

I hate them.

There ya' go.

So now, I guess you are probably wondering why I am posting a recipe for Eggplant Mushroom Curry then, huh?

Hmm.

Well, if I were you, I'd be thinking there's some sort of split personality, almost mid-life crisis thing happening here.

But don't you worry....there's still only three, er....one of me!

When I first saw this Paleo style recipe on our quest to eat less grains, I really really didn't want to make it.

"Quick, click on another link!"

But I knew my hubby (one of those crazy mushroom groupies), would be super happy if I did.

So, being the adoringly wonderful wife that I am, I decided to generously get over my phobia, and create a similar, mushroom laden dish.

Aren't I the sweetest?

And then, it came time for dinner. Um, not realizing I would actually have to eat this stuff.

Huh...

.......

...

*sigh*

I took a bite.

OH. MY. GOODNESS.

Yummy!

Mushrooms......yummy....in the same sentence! Can it be?!

Yes peeps, the world officially stopped spinning, as I reveled in my glorious creation.

I might have even shed a tear or two. *sniff*

Even if you aren't a mushroom "liker", I urge you to give this meal a whirl.

It's so stinkin' good!

Super flavorful, veggie loaded, extremely healthy, and punched with a nice little kick.

Oh...and for all you weird people who still love ~~fungus~~ mushrooms....after eating this, I can see your stance, and I am not disturbed by your unusual romance anymore.

As much. :o)

Eggplant Mushroom Curry

4 eggplants
10 oz white mushrooms, quartered
2 tbsp oil
2 tsp onion powder
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 red chili pepper (or 4-6 if you want it to have more zip!)
1 tsp chili powder
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp ground turmeric
8 tomatoes, diced (or 2 cans)
2 tbsp cilantro
2/3 cup coconut milk
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2-3 cups cooked rice

Preheat your oven to 400 F. Wrap each eggplant in aluminum foil. Place in the oven and cook for 50 minutes to an hour. Remove the eggplants from the oven and let cool. After the eggplants are cool enough to handle, cut them in half and spoon out the flesh. Discard the skin and keep the flesh in a bowl. Mash the flesh, and put aside.
In a large skillet over a medium heat, saute garlic in the oil. Allow it to cook for about two minutes, until fragrant. Add onion powder, chili peppers and mushrooms to the skillet. Saute for about 5 minutes.
Add all the spices to the skillet. Stir in the tomatoes and season to taste with salt and pepper. (Adjust any other seasonings to your preference now as well.) Simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender.
Add the eggplant puree, followed by the cilantro and coconut milk. Continue cooking for about 8 minutes, to allow the flavors to blend. Lastly, stir in your desired amount of rice. Enjoy!

Winner!

2012-03-26T13:03:00.000-04:00

Winner of the Seventh Generation and Lorax giveaway is:

#57

Jan Messali

Thanks to everyone for entering!

Everest Nutrition 100% Pure Cold Pressed Krill Oil (Giveaway!)

2012-03-26T12:45:00.001-04:00

Part of the supplements I must take for my MTHFR includes a good old fish oil.

It can be hard to find one with a decent dosage, as well as pure and of good quality.

So we make do.

Recently, I have heard several times from Dr. Mercola that Krill Oil can be so much better in comparison.

And after being contacted by Everest Nutrition to try their 100% Pure Cold Pressed Antarctic Krill Oil, I can understand why!

Krill Oil is the oil harvested from antarctic krill, a shrimp like crustacean that lives deep in the ocean. Scientists and doctors have discovered that ingesting this oil can have amazing affects on your body including a stronger heart, pain-free joints, a better mood, lower cholesterol, easier menstruation and overall better health.

Just look at the health benefits that can be attained by taking Everest Nutrition Krill Oil on a regular basis versus fish oil supplements:

Reduce your risk of a cardiovascular "event" by up to 45%
Vanquish artery-clogging LDL "bad" cholesterol by up to 55%
Reduce harmful triglycerides by up to 27%
Slash heart-damaging inflammation by as much as 29%
Raise HDL "good" cholesterol by as much as 43.92%
Soothe the pain and discomfort of stiff joints by up to 29%
Boost your memory and mental focus by as much as 48%
Reduce facial wrinkles by up to 51%
Increase your energy by over 50%
Decreases the physical and emotional effects of PMS by up to 47%

Everest Nutrition also delivers fresh krill oil in unique Caplique capsules for better digestion. That means no disgusting "fish burps" or fishy aftertaste which usually occurs when taking regular fish oil supplements. Krill Oil is even safe for your child ages 6 and over, as well as pregnant women. Just make sure that you don't have any shellfish allergies before beginning this regimen of supplements.

Everest Nutrition's Krill Oil harvest is regulated by the CCAMLR, an organization dedicated to conserving the oceans ecosystem. They do this by setting precautionary catch limits and only licensing certain companies to do krill harvesting. Because krill are considered to be the largest biomass in the world (if you put all the krill in the world on a scale it would weigh more than all the human beings on earth) there is no chance of them becoming endangered.

Krill Oil also contains critical DHA and EPA but there's one HUGE difference. When you take Krill Oil, the Omega 3 fatty acids are structured in phospholipid form and NOT triglyceride form. Phospholipids are the same type of fat cells found in the human body! This means there are no triglycerides to break down and the Omega 3s can directly enter your body without any additional work or conversion! Just by switching to Krill Oil you immediately gain 50% more DHA and EPA to boost your health!

An amazing nutrient found in Krill Oil is the all-so powerful antioxidant called astaxanthin. It's a carotenoid that gives krill, shrimp and salmon their pink color. Krill Oil contains more antioxidant power than Vitamin A, Lutein, Vitamin E, Lycopene and many more! In fact, astaxanthin is one of the few nutrients that has the rare ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and deliver essential nutrients throughout the body-- astaxanthin also fights off free radicals that lead to cell damage! Everest Nutrition Krill Oil has an ORAC value of 431 which makes it 54x times more powerful as an antioxidant compared to fish oil and other nutrients!

Let's face it...in head-to-head competition, Krill Oil benefits far surpasses the benefits of ordinary fish

Wow!
Ok, so it is actually much better then your ordinary fish oil!

I have been very pleased with the quality of Everest Nutrition Krill Oil.
Little capsules, full of red oil that you can actually see, easy to swallow, no "after fishy" taste, and more of the benefits of Omegas that I need for my blood thinning for MTHFR.

Sold! Doin' the happy dance!

I am thrilled to be adding a good quality vitamin to my routine, one that is full of benefits and helping me on my road to health and what's best for my body.
You can purchase Everest Nutrition Krill Oil at krilloil.com for as low as $19.96 a bottle. That's the same as I pay for my cheaper fish oil! What a great price to pay for your overall health, don't ya' think?

Win It!

*This giveaway is now closed*

Everest Nutrition has offered one of you lucky readers the chance to experience Krill Oil for yourself! Who wants to try two free bottles of 100% Pure Cold Pressed Antarctic Krill Oil?

Here's how to enter:

(Must be a follower of this blog (found on the right) for entries to count!)

1. Tell me why you would want to try Krill Oil! (This is mandatory and must be done first before any other entry will be considered.)

2. Like Everest Nutrition on Facebook and let me know.

3. Follow Everest Nutrition on Twitter

4. Follow A Mommy's Blessings on Facebook or Twitter and leave a separate comment for each.

5. Blog about this contest, and leave a comment with your link.

I will end this giveaway on Tuesday, April 10th.

Good luck!

Once A Month Grocery Shopping For A Large Family

2012-03-24T14:46:00.003-04:00

"Wait a minute....is that even possible?"

It's been awhile since I shared my ~~chaotic adventures~~ grocery trips with you all.

Since the last time, our eating styles have changed (even more, if you can imagine), stores have been bumped around on our hit list, months of pantry supplies have been continuously added, and we have increased a "bit" more into our grocery budget..
Ok, ok.
A bunch more.
Because between the 8 of us, there are 6 boys who have hollow legs.
In fact, three of those said boys can out-eat their daddy.
Where in the world do they put it all?
Wish I could burn off calories that quick.
I'd be eating alot more cheesecake...er...um...salads. Yeah. Salads.

Generally, every 4 to 5 weeks (or sometimes 6 if I am feeling really brave and extra creative with stretching meals...ha!), I spend the afternoon inventorying our cupboards and freezers, writing out a 5 week master menu, ticking off the groceries needed on our running shopping list, and adding/removing anything else we may or may not want, including household products.

We always have plenty of wheat berries, buckets of other several other grains, rice, oats, grits, beans, salt, honey and syrup, etc., on hand from our Amish family co-op, as well, and those get added and rotated through every few months.
We also get our beef, chicken, eggs, raw milk, and so on, from them weekly as well, which makes grocery shopping alot simpler these days!

Now that we have everything calculated out, it's time to get our booties to the store.
Where do we shop?
Well, we try and get everything as local, and mom and pop as possible. It's surely not 100%, but the main majority is.

Our usual stops are a Mennonite scratch & dent store for odds and ends, the farmer's market for produce, butter, and cheese, an Amish dry goods store for any other produce and other bulk dry items, the health food store for a few organic items, Sam's Club for our mega bulk items, and Target for any paper products. Give or take a few stores here and there.

Yes, it's alot of running around on one day.
Yes, it's alot of driving.
But in the long run, it saves money, time, and frankly makes my life a whole lot more sane.
Because I need that.....
The money part.
And the time.
And heck, especially the sanity.

Here is this current month's master menu and grocery list:

Meal List:

Breakfasts:
smoothies
omlets
sausage grits bake
southwestern fritatta
fresh juice
bacon, eggs, homefries
egg salad melts
waffles
sausage gravy biscuits
jeuvos rancheros
fried eggs and toast

Lunches:
lentil pate sandwiches
PB & J
cheesy tuna rice
cappuccino Cinnamon Rolls
strawberry rhubarb muffins
pancakes

soft pretzels

spaghetti

bagels with cream cheese
cheesy chicken spaghetti
beans burritos
mac and cheese

calzones

Dinners:
hamburgers
fish patties

BBQ chicken soup
jalepeno burn pizza
pizza
salmon over wild rice
sourkraut and kelbasa
grilled cheese, tomato soup
egg drop soup and wontons
mexican mole
layered bean dip and chips
stuffed Pepper Soup
chicken enchilladas

chicken paprika and spaetzle
salisbury steak
taco salad
taco potatoes
taco lentils
bubble and squeak
shakshuka
chicken strogenoff over rice

sheperd's Spinach

eggplant mushroom currey

monterey beans

cheesy beef and rice

Treats & Snacks:
best ever banana cake
rhubarb crisp
PB apple cookie bars
peppernuts
chocolate PB bars

And of course, throw in lots of fruits, veggies, breads, snacks, and other side dishes with whatever I have on hand.

Here is my grocery list for what is needed the next 4 to 5 weeks this time around. Of course throughout the month, we'll pick up staples and more basic supplies from the co-op, but other than that, this should be all we need until the next grocery trip, rounded out by what we have here already.

cilantro
oregano
paprika
garlic powder
onion powder
organic potatoes (20 pounds)
eggs (20 dozen from farm)
raw milk (12 gallons from farm)
organic corn chips (12)
cheese (1 brick of feta, 4 pounds raw cheddar - from farm, 5 pounds pepperjack, 5 pounds colby jack, 1/2 pound parmesan)
organic apples (4 - 3 pound bags)
oranges (4 - 5 pound bags)
organic carrots (3 - 3 pound bags)
garlic (3 bulbs)
organic celery (3 bunches)
frozen mixed fruit (2 - 5 pound bags)
raw cream (1 pint from farm)
cream cheese (6)
tomato sauce (15)
raw sugar (5 pounds)
sucanat (10 pounds)
frozen broccoli (1 - 5 pound bag)
peanuts (12 pounds)
butter (12 pounds)
organic cabbage (3 heads)
tomatoes (14)
organic spinach (6 pounds)
lentils (2 pounds)
tuna (10 cans)
avacado (6)
raisins (10 pounds)
ricotta
pineapple (8)
bananas (30 pounds)
spaghetti sauce (3)
lard (2 pounds)
ground beef (20 pounds from farm)
chicken (20 pounds from farm)
bacon (5 pounds from farm)
olive oil (1 gallon)
OJ concentrate (3)
sweet onions (2 pounds)
yeast (2 pounds)
vital wheat gluten (2 pounds)
vinegar (1 gallon)
cottage cheese
olives
eggplant (5)
pinto beans (2 pounds)
quinoa (2 pounds from farm)
fish oil capsules for Micah
coffee filters
tissues (3 boxes)
foil
ziplocs (big and small)
matches
spray bottle
AA batteries
TP (2 - 24 packs)
tissue paper for etsy
shipping envelopes for etsy
Croc's shoes for Elias
lavender shampoo bar (3 from the farm)

Phew.
Jealous?
Now you know why it takes me all. day. long. to go shopping.
Can you imagine what it'd be like if I took the littles along with me??
Shucks, we need a bigger van, just for groceries!

Our grocery budget has climbed to about $650 a month now.
Ucky.
I hate seeing that in black and white.
But considering that is for 8 people, eating organic and from scratch as much as possible, for 4 to 5 weeks, including household supplies, I know I should consider that pretty darn spiffy.
That averages out to around $150 a week.
Which means $20 a day.
Which means $6 a meal.
Which means less then $1 a person.
So in general, I am feeding each member of our family a whole day's worth of meals and snacks for a maximum of $3!
Wow!
Ok
Now that I look at it all broken down, it doesn't give me quite the heart attack I have when I total all of my grocery receipts at the end of shopping day. :oD

So my friend...think you can't put the words "shop once a month, eat healthy, and have a big family" all in the same sentence?
Think again!
It can be done folks.
Even for those of us who are grocery challenged.

Tell me, what does shopping look like in your home?

A Spring In Spring!

2012-03-22T20:10:00.003-04:00

Yesterday it hit 90 degrees.
N-I-N-E-T-Y.

In Northern Ohio.

In the middle of March.

March!!!

Can we say hot?

And weird.

Hey, I'm not complaining!

But we are so totally going to have a blizzard in a week.

I'm taking bets!

Anywho, we enjoyed our second day of ~~Summer~~ Spring by going to our first official walking trail of the year.

And lookie where we headed:

A local spring!

A spring in Spring!

What better way to ring in the gorgeous blossoms and warm air then splashing in a river and drinking icy cold, crystal clear water, straight from the ~~tap~~ rocks. ;o)

Such a beautiful day.

I could so get used to this.

But I won't for long.

After all, it is Ohio.

Give it a ~~minute~~ week or two, and we'll be digging ourselves out of a mountain of fluffy white.

And I don't mean daffodils.

Menu Plan Monday....Er, Um....Tuesday

2012-03-20T09:45:00.002-04:00

I excitedly walked in the door yesterday afternoon from a dental appointment.

HaHA!

No school to do, all the chores and housework done (...enough), dinner planned, and the children with a handful of borrowed videos to choose from, thanks to Grandma Barb.

Perfect!

Lots of time to catch up on computer work and blog.

A rarity when the stars align that well, and as behind in life as I have been these past few weeks, I was excited at the proposition of getting some things accomplished for once.

Shooing the littles away to watch a movie, I happily sat down behind my laptop, with a smile on my face and a mug of creamy coffee in my hand.

I might have even snuck in an M&M or two.

Or ten.

The sun was shining.

The warm breeze was blowing through the window.

And the internet was not working.

Of course it wasn't.

Because that would be just too easy.

Providence at it's best, my friends.

I played with it.

I unplugged and replugged all the bajillion cords.

I wiggled the wires.

I reset buttons I didn't even knew existed.

Nada.

Nope.

Ain't happenin'.

Hmmm.

Guess I'll go enjoy a bit of the last day of winter outside, prepping the garden (ya' know, because it was only 80-hot degrees in Northern Ohio!?!)

I came back in an hour later and tried it again.

Come on.

Work.

I called Matt and whined to him.

I. Need. To. Blog.

"You don't understand!" I whimpered. "I will never have another day in a million years where I have so much free time!"

I waited anxiously the next 4 hours until he got home, and plopped him in front of the computer as soon as he walked in the door.

He wiggled a wire.

Whammo.

Internet.

There's that providence again.

All of that entertainment to say, that is the reason my Menu Plan Monday is being posted on a Tuesday.

There ya' go.

I thought you might appreciate all I do for you a bit more after that story. ;o)

Monday: carrot/orange/celery juice

coconut ice cream :o)

jalapeno burn pizza, mandarin oranges

Tuesday: smoothies

onion rings, orange julius

egg drop soup, fried rice

Wednesday: egg nog

egg salad, veggies and dip

eggplant mushroom currey (recipe to come!), herbed wildrice

Thursday: smoothies

bagels with cream cheese, grapes

taco potatoes, spinach salad

Friday: smoothies

PB&J, cheese and apples and crackers

chicken enchilladas, green chili rice

Saturday: jeuvos rancheros

leftovers

taco salad

Sunday: pesto and egg stuffed tomatoes

leftovers

bubble and squeak, sourdough biscuits

UPrinting Hang Tag Giveaway

2012-03-20T08:38:00.003-04:00

Before, when I used to sell my sewed work on Ebay years ago, I always had super cute hang tags on every item.

Then I ran out.

When I started up my store on Etsy, I just never took the time to re-design and re-order a whole new batch.

But I wanna'.

And I know exactly where I am going to get them from.

:o)

Don't they look so professional?

I can't wait to create my own!

I have never been disappointed in anything I have ever ordered from UPrinting.com. Always high quality and just plain old beautiful.

Whether it's business cards, labels, banners, postcards, or so much more, UPrinting is an ideal place for all your stationary needs!

For those of you who have a small business, (or if you just want some really cute gift package tags!) you are going to love this giveaway, generously sponsored from UPrinting!

Who wants 250 hang tags?!

Win It!

*This giveaway is now closed ~Winner: Klemm Family*

One lucky reader will win 250 custom hang tags from UPrinting.com!

Prize Details:

250pcs Hang Tags
2" x 2", 2" x 3.5" 14pt Cardstock Gloss, Front Only Printing
3/16" Hole Drilling (Top-Center, Top-Left, or Top-Right)
6 Business Days Turnaround

Restrictions:

This giveaway is open to US residents only, 18 years old and above.
No prize substitutions allowed
Winners are allowed to win once over a six-month period.
Only email addresses used for the giveaway will be eligible to claim the prize.

Here's how to enter:

(Must be a follower of this blog (found on the right) for entries to count!)

1. Like UPrinting Homepage

AND tweet about this giveaway on Twitter (example: "Get a chance to #win hang tags from @UPrinting by joining @mommysblessings's giveaway!)

(These are all mandatory and must be done first before any other entry will be considered.)

2. Tell me how you would use these hang tags if you won!

3. Follow UPrinting on Twitter

4. Add UPrinting to your circle on Google Plus.

5. Follow A Mommy's Blessings on Facebook or Twitter and leave a separate comment for each.

6. Blog about this contest, and leave a comment with your link.

I will end this giveaway on Friday, March 30th.

Good luck!

"You should assume that the owner of this blog will receive free print products in exchange for the post. Any and all reviews posted are based solely on my own experience and may be atypical. Please practice due diligence in making any related purchase decisions.”

More Than Making Maple Syrup

2012-03-16T17:56:00.002-04:00

I have shared before how much we love the ministry created by our good friends, the Moore's, makers of Children Are A Blessing, and the This Is Your Life series.

Just recently after Asher was born, then sent me a totally sweet care package full of goodies, and in it was their brand spankin' new DVD, More Thank Making Maple Syrup!

Oh yeah. My children were ecstatic!

And I of course was super in awe over how all their littles have grown so much....we really need to get down their to see them one day soon!

Whether you want to learn how to make Maple syrup, or you just want to enjoy some wholesome laughter as a family of 12 unites to accomplish a job together, we invite you to join the Moore Family in one of their favorite harvests of the year...tapping Maple trees, and making Maple Syrup!
From the tapping of the trees on their beautiful Virginia farm, to the final process of canning the delicious syrup, More Than Making Maple Syrup will be sure to delight and inform the young and old alike. In 7 simple steps, you'll learn more than just how to make your own syrup. With family unity as a theme, and with a good dose of adorable two-year-old antics and humor, your family will be inspired to work together on your own projects in your neck of the woods!

So fun!

My children now have me convinced that next year we are for sure tapping our maple trees, and heading into the woods next to my cousin's house to do the same.

I have always wanted to make our own maple syrup...now after this video, and watching "our favorite Moore's!" (right down to the little ones!) make it look pretty darn easy, I am SO looking forward to making it our new family adventure!

If you are looking for an entertaining and educational resource, full of adorable children, giggles, wholesome family love, and God's word, then this is the perfect video to add to your library!

Thank you dear Moore Family for another wonderful DVD! :oD

Winner!

2012-03-16T17:35:00.000-04:00

Winner of the Eco-Friendly shower curtain from Rock Candy Life is:

#20

ape2016

Congrats!

Stay tuned for more awesome giveaways!

Time Is Flying at Lightspeed....

2012-03-14T19:02:00.000-04:00

....and I SOOOO am not!

Apparently, someone in this house has been playing a dirty little trick on me.

Every day, my clock gets turned ahead 2 or 3 hours, and before I know it, nothing gets finished!

Who keeps stealing my hours?!

And better yet, where in the world are they hiding them?

*sigh*

It's a losing battle.

Time keeps chugging on by, and this old geezer can barely keep up.

So much to do, and no time to do it in.

Come on God.

Couldn't you just give me a few extra hours in a day to get more things accomplished?

Say like, 26 or 27?

No?

Alrighty then. Guess I have to just work a bit harder. :oP

I have busied my little tail feather off this past week on random projects, and unfortunately have absolutely nothing actually crossed off my list to show for it.

Yet.

Don't ya' just hate that?

The biggest ~~disaster~~ task happening as we speak is the ceiling repair/remodeling of the Green Stairs (ie: playroom).

In'nt peeeerrrrrty?

Um yeah.

Well, it will be.

One day.

That is, if my cousin ever actually finishes it.

And just so you can sympathize with me, all of the toys that filled that playroom before?

YuP.

Everywhere in the house right now.

I think half of my time loss battles this week went into trying to tame that chaos alone.

It's like a visual noise trying to scream my eyeballs out.

Soon though, it should be all fixed, spackled, textured, and cleaned.

Soon. I just keep telling myself. Soon. Soon.

Then it will be my job to paint and re-decorate it from it's former, boring self.

Oh lucky me.

Ahem. That's where you come in.

HELP!!!!

I have no clue what to actually do to it.

Ya' know...to make it an actual playroom instead of just a room full of toys?

I would love fun murals, or maybe to chalkboard paint a wall.....

But again.....

Clueless.

Give me some ideas ladies!

What should I do to make this space "fun" for all my littles?

Menu Plan Monday: Spring Is In The Air!

2012-03-12T17:08:00.000-04:00

LOVE-ing this gorgeous weather we have been having these past few days.

And since it'is supposed to continue throughout the week, I am thrilled.

I tell ya', makes me crave a fresh veggie salad and some yummy BBQ from the grill. ;o)

Soon enough!

Monday: smoothies

hamburgers, fried potatoes

thai chicken currey, bread

Tuesday: smoothies

cinnabon copycat cinnamon rolls, pineapple

sweet and sour meatballs over rice, green beans

Wednesday: smoothies

leftovers

sausage cabbage noodle dinner, cheesy garlic biscuits

Thursday: smoothies

groats, peaches

crockpot roast, roasted potatoes and carrots

Friday: smoothies

rhubarb strawberry muffins, oranges

chicken divine, herbed corn

Saturday: fried eggs and toast

leftovers

pizza

Sunday: eggs and ham

leftovers

chicken fried rice, flat bread

Where He Belongs

2012-03-10T17:09:00.000-05:00

My dear friend Bethany is such a brilliant artist.

After Jonathan, she drew two beautiful pictures of him for me to frame.

I hung them right below the collage of pictures of all my other children.

Now she has blessed me with a drawing of Asher to add to my wall as well.

There he is.

Sweet Asher.

My precious baby boy.

Right there where he belongs.

Seventh Generation & The Lorax (Giveaway!)

2012-03-09T16:49:00.002-05:00

We use cloth pull-ups in this house of course, just like cloth diapers.

But with several boys who need them at night time, sometimes they go through more then happen to be washed.

When that happens, we need back up.

That means once and awhile, I might be desperate and need to use disposables (gasp!), because let's face it....life happens.

And really, there is only one brand I trust to put on my little guys bums, and that is Seventh Generation Free and Clear.

Why Seventh Generation?

Made from plant based materials that are bio-degradable and good for the environment, I don't have to worry about nasty chemicals or toxic bleach, just like in my cloth diapers!

Yay!

Seventh Generation Free and Clear Training Pants fit snug, are super absorbant, and wonderfully comfortable for my littles.

All with the ease of disposables.

And of course....having Dr. Suess' The Lorax on each one makes these pull-ups super fun as well!

NEW Overnight Diapers are absorbent enough to keep your baby and bedding dry through the night or during prolonged travel

Free & Clear diapers have improved more flexible tabs that provide even better fit

Free & Clear training pants have an absorbent core made with more renewable, plant-based materials. They also feature stretchy, tear away side panels for a better fit and added convenience, as well as inner leak barriers for superior leakage protection

Seventh Generation Free & Clear baby care products do not contain chlorine, fragrance, petroleum-based lotions or latex, and all Free & Clear products are also hypo-allergenic

Starting March 2, you can register for a free The Lorax scrapbook with the purchase of any three Free & Clear diaper products, until supplies last!!!

Win It!

*This giveaway is now closed*

Seventh Generation and MyBlogSpark have teamed up to give away one package of Seventh Generation diapers and a copy of Dr. Suess' The Lorax to one of you!

Here's how to enter:

(Must be a follower of this blog (found on the right) for entries to count!)

1. Tell me what you like best about Seventh Generation Diapers! (This is mandatory and must be done first before any other entry will be considered.)

2. Like Seventh Generation on Facebook and let me know.

3. Follow Seventh Generation on Twitter

4. Follow A Mommy's Blessings on Facebook or Twitter and leave a separate comment for each.

5. Blog about this contest, and leave a comment with your link.

I will end this giveaway on Friday, March 23rd.

Good luck!

(I received a product from My Blog Spark and Seventh Generation for review in exchange for writing this post)

Happy Birthday Thomas!

2012-03-07T18:36:00.000-05:00

I can't believe my baby boy is two today.

TWO.

How did that happen?

Where did the time go?

He's such a little toddler, running around the house and gabbing away.

That is just so not allowed.

And since I usually have a new baby to snuggle by the time my littles hit this age, it makes this milestone alot harder to handle.

He's just too big.

*sniffle*

A baby no more.

Happy birthday Thomas!

But seriously young man...you have got to stop growing!

*sigh*

Now to go have myself another chunk of birthday boy's peanut butter chocolate truffle cheesecake...then all will be right with the world again. ;o)