Let Us Celebrate "Her"

We're less than one week away from that event which is automatically populated on everyone's SmartPhone Calendars or even typed onto a Hard Copy Calendar perhaps in a light shaded grey font. As someone today said "Everyday should be Mother's day".. ain't that the truth! I think we don't get to acknowledge our appreciation for anyone in our lives each day, as much as we would like to. So once upon a time (and I'm sure Wikipedia has the underlining facts behind it) someone smacked 1 day on the Calendar to make sure Mothers do not get missed amongst the day to day chaos of Life.

As this day approaches each year I hear so many Significant Others say "I don't know what she wants".. "She is so difficult to shop for"... "She said she doesn't want anything"... "No really, she doesn't like anything I get her"... Or there may even be the Post-Mother's day .. "Oh crap....!"

I asked some Moms I know "What would you really appreciate on Mother's Day?" Here is feedback I received and it makes my heart happy to be able to share this. Perhaps, those that want to do something nice for your Mom, your significant other, someone you know who is a Mom, perhaps someone who is like a Mom to you... these ideas will help! As someone who is a Professional Procrastinator... you still have time!

     

1. Breakfast in bed? Perhaps, Mama just needs a little extra time in the morning to sleep in as maybe in your household she's up early everyday figuring out what to feed everyone. Getting the kids up, finding clean clothes to dress them in, teeth brushed and fed. On Saturday night, turn off her alarm clock and tell her to stay in bed come morning ;-)

2. Or maybe, you know that Mom really well and she would love to walk downstairs and have a table set with her favorite breakfast that she doesn't get to make often since mornings are chaotic and it's always more of finding the quickest meal to scarf down. *Don't forget having a cup of coffee or tea ready!  Brownie points!

3. Be Tim the Toolman! Was there something that needs fixing in the house? You know, that thing that maybe Mama has asked (or you feel nags about) more times than once for, that is broken. Maybe, a picture frame on the wall? Something outside set up, patio furniture? A light fixture that doesn't produce light? The toilet that constantly runs? A leaky faucet? The tub drain that needs emptying? The door(s) that squeaks and just needed a quick spray for WD-40?

4. Exercise that Green Thumb! If the forecast is looking stunning and Mom loves gardening, maybe it'll be fun to head out to a local Garden and have her pick out flowers. Even better yet, pick some up with the kids. Ones that they like, bring them home and have fun in the dirt all together! If you want to send Mom out somewhere for a few hours, this can be a really neat Surprise for when she returns. Just make sure the kiddos are all clean and the dirt prints in the house are washed away. Also, grab a Bouquet of flowers while you're out and about! ;-)

5. Spa Day! Mom may be hinting at getting her hair dolled up, nails done, a long pedicure or massage. Send her off. Let her just relax and enjoy herself. Mama may be due with Baby #2.. or #3.. or #7. If you know she'd love that but wants to be with the family on that day, then get a Gift Certificate with a little note letting her know to choose to go when she feels up to it. "Don't worry I'll hang with the kids!" Just don't say you'll babysit.. we don't babysit our own kids, LOL!

6. Pictures! Pictures! Pictures! Even though Mom doesn't like her picture taken. We always love having pictures with the kids or a family picture. It may be just for herself to have, keep on her phone or make a nice print for the wall. Bring your camera with you and find a pretty spot to snap some photos of her with the kids. Better yet, set the timer (Smart Phones have them too) and take some fun photos together. If it's raining stay inside and open up all of the curtains to get a little lighting in the room. Pull out the umbrellas and go outside for some fun,, memorable photos of the day! If you're out and about do not be shy.. ask a stranger to please take a Photo of all of you! Strangers aren't mean, you wouldn't mind doing that for someone I am sure and they won't mind taking one of you. "Can you please take a photo of our family, their Mom will love it". Offer to take a photo of the Stranger even if they're flying solo, LOL! 

Note: ... and Oh! Don't take this first thing in the morning. Let Mom get herself ready ;-)

7. DIY! Pinterest it! In case you've never actually seen that thing called Pinterest which Mom talks about every day. DIY = Do It Yourself. We all have a little Crafty spark in us! Check out Pinterest for a cute Homemade Craft for Mom. My husband last year made up his own "cement" and did foot & hand prints of our daughter. I asked if he could make this a Ritual every year for Mother's Day. It's those little things that will mean such a great deal. Make a card with the kids. It doesn't have to be perfect. That's not what DIY is about. It's putting your time into something for someone that is your whole world. Mom will look at that as time you spent with the kids which believe me, makes us happy! Hint Hint.. here's a link to Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ 

8. Mr. Clean! Mama may feel that all she does is clean, vacuums, dishes, laundry, then repeat. The laundry pile is insane. Who knows what is actually dirty or what can be worn a few more times? We start one thing and then distractions cause us to move onto something else. Then we find ourselves unsure of what we still have to do. Load up that dish washer after Mom goes to sleep Saturday night. Let her wake up to a clean kitchen, counters you can see, a table that doesn't have mail lingering around (hide the bills for another day), If you can't get to all of the laundry put it in baskets so it doesn't look stressful. Maybe throw some outdated things away in the refrigerator. Leftovers that have been "leftover". Empty all of the garbage cans in the house. Take the recyclables out. Vacuum up those hidden cobweb spots and corners where the kids left their snacks. Maybe wash those windows that you see the little hand prints and animals mouth residue on. If the kids are old enough sit down with them and create a Chore Chart. Let's reduce what Mom does so she can focus on some other things at home and in the Family! Ultimately, taking away Mom's chores for even the day that overwhelm us is an incredible gift.

9.  Dinner Date:  Is there a place that she heard others raving about and always say "I want to try that place". Call in some reservations for dinner. Don't forget to ask if it's a kid friendly restaurant and has high chairs, You just never know! ;-)

10. Picnic Anywhere! You can Picnic on a Lake, on the Beach, or somewhere not Far. You Picnic in the Yard, in a field or even in a Car! This is what I call saving a little money but making it a beautiful afternoon. Gather up from the house what's needed. The Diaper Bag, make sandwiches or swing by a local deli or a Subway for some grinders, put fruit in a tupperware (she has plenty of them tucked away in the cabinet). Get drinks, water bottles, juice, milk, whichever is everyone's favorite. Find a large enough blanket that everyone can comfortably sit or lay down on. Venture out or if you can't go far, and it's raining, put a tent up in the backyard. You can make a picnic special anywhere. As long as you're all together and have something to eat and drink, lol.

11. Love Notes:  If the kids are old enough to write everyone grab out paper, markers, crayons or pens. Whatever you can find. Pull out scrap paper or construction paper. Cut everything in different shapes: hearts, circles, squares, Yoda.. etc. Start writing things that you're thankful for with Mom. Does she always make sure there are meals ready? Do you always have clean underwear and matching socks? Does she always make sure everyone gets bedtime kisses and everyone is bathed? Does she remind you not to forget your wallet or keys each morning before you leave? Does she make sure the bills are paid so you have electricity and heat? I could go on, but you know all that a Mom does in a day and then some, what she does in a year. She may be the one to update the Calendar of Birthdays, celebrations and events. She purchases the gifts when you go places and makes sure your clothes are ironed. Let's recognize for all she does. Start filling out little notes to show your appreciation for those little things she does that keeps the home running and lives running smoothly. There may be some things she does which she doesn't even realize what an impact it makes on your life. Let her know through words!

12. Jewelry! Mama loves it even if she may not always get to wear it.  But what exactly would she want? Perhaps, a ring, earrings or necklace with all of the children's birthstones. A bracelet that has significance to what an amazing woman she is. A single pearl necklace to represent her little one or more depending on how many munchkins she has!

13. Wall Photo Decor! There's some photos that Mom absolutely loved. Whether, it was when the children were born or a special event. She loves it and you know she'd love to have that blown up on canvas somewhere in the house. There are so many online places or even local Print Shops that can get that done before Mother's Day. If not, still get it and let her know an extra special gift will be arriving late. Google for coupons/discounts too ;-) 

14. A Walk in the Park or Hike! Throw the strollers in the car and pack some sunscreen. Make it a day in the park, or along the ocean, maybe a pretty pond. If Mama loves hiking, grab the carriers for the kids and make sure everyone has their sneakers on. Don't forget the bug spray and grab a backpack with waters! Either way, you'll be breathing in the fresh air and helping to tire those kiddos out for bedtime. 

15. Wine! You know she has a favorite Wine. Send her a bottle, drop it off, or have it opened and poured in a glass for dinner. If you went to get real crazy you can even purchase her some new wine glasses!

16. Bath & Bed Time! Help! SOS! The kids are tired and cranky but so dirty from all of the day's events. Tell Mom to put her feet up on the couch and pick out a movie. Maybe she's ready for bed herself. In that case send her in the bedroom, and tell her to lock that door. You know just in case a naked little toddler decides they want to run around. Mom doesn't need to know about the trail of water from the bathroom to everywhere else in the house. You're handling the Nighttime Routine! 

17. Mama Needs New Clothes & Shoes! It's a new Season and Mama needs to dress the part! Head out to the Mall or Shopping Outlets and let her choose the stores. Or if she needs a few hours on her own tell her you have plans with the kids. That way Mom can take her time in the dressing and maybe even take a nap on one of their comfortable couches.

18. A Night Away! Do you know how an Elephant sleeps? Well barely, they can take a 15 minute nap tops at a time (while standing). They're always on their feet all day and only let their trunk hit the ground for 4-6 hours a night. Sound familiar? Okay, so us Moms don't have trunks but I'd say our sleep patterns are not too different. Even more, do we even get 15 minutes of nap time? Perhaps that would sound more familiar for our night schedule. Send Mama away Saturday night to get a full night's rest. Then when she returns Sunday spend the day together as a family. She'll love it & love you! Oh! Maybe she can meet up with a girlfriend for dinner before she heads out to her Solo Night Away of Sleep!

19. Weekend Away! Let's step it up a notch. Would Mom love to go away for a weekend with her favorite gals? Not on Mother's Day but if you can somehow coordinate with her favorite chicks and send her a way start planning now. What a surprise would that be? How AWESOME would you be? You'll always be able to think back and say ... "Remember that time I planned a Girl's Weekend away for you?"... Believe me, do that and you'll get a ton of Golf Days ;-)

20. Movie Night! Mama has to delete all of the shows on the DVR to make space for someone's sports games, kids favorite TV shows or the DVR just doesn't exist in your home. She's always sitting their, smiling and watching what everyone loves and just needs a night of her choosing to pick out a movie and control the remote. Sticky hands off everyone! Mama picks what we watch tonight. To make it fair to everyone you can even divvy up the week and have everyone take turns with a night :) 

21. Dine In! Bring the night full circle with a delicious Homemade dinner! Involve the kids too. Remember that Pinterest that we chatted about in #7? Check that out for great Dinner Ideas. Set the table up. Pull out the fine china (as long as you're doing dishes) or grab paper plates, napkins and plastic silverware. Mom will love it all! Here's a perfect time to pour a glass of wine or in a plastic cup!

22. Plan It Out! This ties into just about anything on this list. Something common I hear from other Moms is that they do not care what the day entails as long as their Significant other plans it. Perhaps, the night before or day (s) because.. you still have time says the Professional Procrastinator right here.. create a schedule for the entire day and share with her the itinerary or keep it a surprise! Believe me, there is nothing better then a Mom waking up and her whole day is planned and she doesn't have to do a thing but go along for the ride! Let her brain R-E-L-A-X for the day!

23. No Diapers: What's that? Mama doesn't have to change... one... single.. diaper for the entire day? You are the best!

24. Delivery! If you know of a Mama that's all alone on Mother's day with her kiddos or perhaps they're all grown up. Send her flowers, a meal or some fruit! Mail a card! Send her an e-mail, a voicemail, silly video clips to cheer her up. Send her something that's meaningful to her like a scrapbook or photo album. Just let her know you're thinking of her!

25. X's & O's: From the moment Mama wakes up to the moment she goes to sleep, any moment you can get. Give hugs and kisses. Even at the most random moment while you're waiting in line for a hot dog at a stand on the side of the road. At the parks, feeding the ducks. Whisper in your kids ears "Go hug Mommy..." ... "Give Mama a big wet kiss". Don't be shy, you can do that too! We often forget these little moments and that's all we need. Don't forget the sweet words... "I Love You"

These are just a few ideas out of 100's out there to make that Mom in your life feel special and appreciated. Ideas that can also be done and used each day as well throughout the year. I hope that special woman in your life has a wonderful Mother's Day! 

Let us Celebrate "Her" for all she does! 

85 Days Until We Meet You

Ah. August 21st, the day I turned the big.. 3-0! I took that day off to have some "Me & Autumn time". It wasn't all that eventful but it was relaxing and exactly what we needed. For some reason that day while walking around Home Goods in search of a chalkboard for her Nursery, it really hit me that soon I'll be pushing a stroller, a carriage or wearing a kangaroo pouch with Autumn tucked inside laying against my chest. 

It's my last Birthday which I'll be celebrating as "Katie". This was something very beautiful as the thought of next time my Birthday comes around I will be "Mom". Apart of me in all honesty was a little sad. Not at all that I'll be a Mom, but that this Katie who holds my youth, my mistakes, my experiences, lessons, fears, nights of crying into pillows, getting all dolled up to meet friends for drinks and memories that were just based on decisions that would only effect "Katie" are now being tucked away in those last 3 decades. 

Becoming 30 is bringing on a whole new meaning to life. I know that when I'm approached with a decision it's not just looking in the mirror and asking what's best for "Katie". The decisions that I'll make, the mistakes, all of those fears and moments of joy and tears will have an impact on not just me but my family. I look forward to everything that we will see coming or unexpected and all I will learn along the way as I continue to grow.  

#85: Celebrating your Birthday each year in the most exciting way. Oh, get ready!

88 Days Until We Meet You

There are so many things I do that help me relax in my day to day life and I pride myself on that. Though things stress me out just as much as they do for others, I can always take a deep breath, take a step back and evaluate the situation I'm in. Sometimes, if I don't want to think about the stress I'll give myself a little time out. I'll do something that occupies my mind just for a short while then return to the situation and figure out how to work through it. 

- A change of scenery makes a difference. Even if I can't leave my home, just walking into another room can bring my stress down. I may look around at the decor and think back to where I purchased something from. I may begin to get crazy ideas of moving furniture around (at a later time). 

- Stepping outside to smell the roses. I know that's such a cliche, but it's very true. If there are flowers, walk outside and smell them. Look at the details in the flowers.. they're artwork and pretty inspiring. You may even see little creatures crawling around getting their snack in.

- Going outside and laying in the grass. Anytime of the year this works, really. Even if there's snow on the ground, or if it's raining. It sounds nuts but being that close with nature is incredible.

- Going to the store and purchasing a coloring book and pack of crayons. Long ago I discovered this. Not just from spending my entire youth in Art classes, but coloring in a silly book, staying in the lines is truly therapeutic. Next time you go to the store pick out a coloring book and grab a pack of crayons.

- Shut off the phone. Sometimes our stress can be a direct impact from the phone. It's okay to turn it off for a while and tuck it in a drawer, your purse or in a room that's not in your direct view.

- Taking goofy photos of yourself. That's always been a go to of mine. I must have hundreds thousands of photos that I'll never share because I look absolutely ridiculous but they make me laugh. Set up a timer, put makeup on, or decorate your face and hair. Let your face relax and think of every emotion or gesture there is. Just be yourself and you don't have to worry about what anyone else thinks. 

- A go to hobby always relaxes me. I am always finding new hobbies that don't last very long but perhaps that's a good thing. It keeps my mind busy and challenging. 

- Since I'll be a FTM "First Time Mom", going in Autumn's Nursery and laying on her white squishy rug on the floor has been so peaceful for me. I can lay there for hours just thinking about the day she's sleeping in there. 

I know not all of those stress relievers I do now will be the same when Autumn arrives. The bottom line is no matter how bad things are we are still breathing and it's okay to take a step back, take that deep breath to make you realize... you're still alive and give yourself a time out by doing something that occupies your mind and body.

#88: We are going to sit in the grass and make dandelion necklaces & crowns while taking silly photos together. 

Pictures & Music. How lovely.

Last night I was feeling a bit creative. I used the very easy Windows Movie Maker program that came with my laptop. I then plugged in my old hard drive and put together (using recent photos as well) a lovely video for my Charlie ♥ Enjoy!

What a Day Indeed..

Today was a good day.  

Plain and simple as that. 

I went for a ride to a town perhaps 4 away. It's a beautiful scenic route that I've driven numerous times with my bestie who moved out to San Diego. I missed her today on my ride there. I saw some funny things that I know would have made her laugh.

The best part of my ride today was a specific moment. I saw from far away a man walking very slow, with a hat, shorts and a red t'shirt. He was not walking in a straight line on the sidewalk; however, he was not on the grass. I couldn't tell until I got closer why he was stumbling every few steps. As I stopped at an intersection, there he was right beside my car on the sidewalk. He was holding a long walking stick and their I realized, he was blind.

So many thoughts came to my mind after that moment but the first one in all honesty was sadness. It was so beautiful outside, I mean so gorgeous. Here I am driving this route because of the trees, the houses, little shops and interesting people. Here is someone walking beside me but is not seeing what I see. His beauty is different. My last thought that stood out is how amazing this man is. I've met and also worked with some people with different handicaps that continue to amaze me bye how motivated they are. When we seem to give up so easily on life.

Here's today a memorable day. Discovering a beautiful soul in the man with the hat, shorts and red t'shirt. Here's to life being so beautiful ♥

 

Simple Thoughts.

One word expresses what I feel♥

My creativity of the day = 1 piece of paper, cutting letters out of 1 envelope, colouring the letters with a red marker, picking a tiny flower from my deck. Ta-da!

Let Yourself Feel Beautiful ♥

It's important for a lady to feel like.. a lady. We've grown up watching the men in our lives 'wooing' women in such romantic ways. I'm not talking about our fathers, uncles, or any other men that we see in person. I'm talking about the Richard Gere's... the John Travolta's.. the Robert Pattinson's.. This is what we see or read about and that's what us women grow up wanting. It's true, isn't it? I know it's not just me that always dreamed of that beautiful Wedding, the romantic proposal, the first kiss, etc. We grow up seeing these men making a lady feel like.. a lady. Well, let's start making ourselves feel special, since we can't wait around forever. Right? Next time you see a flower, pick it and put it in your hair. It'll make you feel glamorous ♥ Leave yourself sweet notes that will help lift up your spirits each day. Treat yourself to a day out and get all pampered. It's okay to make yourself feel special, because you are. You are all so beautiful. ♥

Random Thoughts

Embracing Tuesday & Sharing some Random Thoughts with all of my friends ♥

#1: I am a Sponsor at one of my favorite blogs, Eisy Morgan. For those who know her.. LOVE her! Today I am featured on her blog. If you have a few minutes, please stop over and check it out, be sure to browse around and see everything she does. She's amazing! 

#2: This girl right here (me) has been a total slacker with so many areas of my life. One being my 29 Days of Gifts. I promise you that I have been 'giving' every day. I just have not been writing about it. I will begin sharing again.  :)

#3: I've been brainstorming about some new projects I'd like to start that involve Love is Everywhere! I'm not sure what it will be or when they'll start, but just know there's a bit of chaos going around in my little noggin! It's all good stuff ♥

#4: L&O SVU was new last week and I was in shock when I saw Rose McGowan. It's so sad when these actresses get so much facial work that you have to 'google' to look for a recent photo of them. I'm still shock.

#5: There's a fabulous & fun giveaway going on here that ends on April 1st! Don't miss out on entering! ♥

Fabulous Random Thoughts...Friday!

I just made up this blog title but I think its the perfect summary for this post! When I have a busy mind it's easier just to throw the random thoughts out there in no particular order. Plus it's fun ;)

Fabulous Random Thought #1: Writing on my blog and visiting everyone while, leaving comments, learning for everyone and being inspired has become my number one favorite thing to do! I make new friends everyday who are truly remarkable. One being, Michelle at Michabella Living a Life of Love. She is so sweet and I've already found myself lost in her blog in just a few days! Also I love her little clock on her page so I added one on mine! She started a 'Feature Friday' today and has graciously featured my blog. I would like to spread the love and send everyone over to visit her. Be sure to say hi, you will just fall in love! ♥

Fabulous Random Thought #2: Mother Nature sent more snow here in New England yesterday and the sun is out today increasing the icicles hanging on the edges of our house. They're beautiful so of course I took a few little snappy shots!

Fabulous Random Thought #3:I heart Circle Scarves. I must have mentioned that at least 3 other times in other posts. Today was definitely a KT Scarf sort of day. A beautiful thick, grey soft & warm scarf from Forever 21 (mi favorite store)!

Fabulous Random Thought #4: I shared this on my FB yesterday and had to show it here. Many months back a fella came a knockin' at our door. Okay, so I wasn't home but Charlie and he answered it. This fella was selling some sort of Internet/Cable/Phone package, a provider we don't currently have. Of course Charlie humored him and the guy left information asking us to review and call him if we're interested. The kicker of the story is he left.. what I call his 'Cheat Sheet' with the pamphlets. I had to take a picture because it cracked me up. That's like someone running for office listing 'facts' NOT to say so people don't know whats behind it all. Here's his list. I appreciate him for accidentally leaving it so we can share in a chuckle together!

If you click on the image it's bigger in another window ♥

Fabulous Random Thought #5: The Blog of the Month is coming closer to and end, only 3 days to vote. Continuing to send love and thanks to those who have voted for me!

Love you all. Have a fabulous Friday!!!

Katie

It's okay to be completely Random!

Hello everyone! I have so much to say but the majority of my thoughts are unrelated to each other.. so I'll do a bit of a breakdown.. KT Style!

Random Thought #1:  I truly apologize for not posting the Hug&Love Thursday Hop! I think the snow clouded my mind yesterday (my excuse). I will however downsize to 1 Blog Hop a week. Since I love both of them I will alternate each week so definitely swing bye on Mondays & Thursdays ♥

Random Thought #2: My fabulous cousin made her special Buffalo Chicken Dip and put together a bowl for me. She dropped it on my back deck sitting in the snow to stay chilled. One of my besties and I pigged out on bowls of chips and dip (perfection). Hopefully I can ask my oh so lovely cousin to post the recipe on here someday. If you could only see the drool on my face thinking about it, you would know it's so delicious! She made my day complete.

Random Thought #3: Tomorrow is Friday and the first 7 words that come to mind is 'Oh Baby, Oh Baby, Oh Baby, Oh!' ->Nothing planned, I'm just super stoked that tomorrow begins my 3 day weekend!

Random Thought #4: My bff and I went to a Japanese restaurant a few nights ago to try something new. We've both been there; however, not together. So that's something new #1. Then I had Endamame which I've never eaten before.. new #2.. My bff tried the Tuna Rolls that I got.. that's new#3. It was a fabulous night to catch up, laugh and try something new together! ♥  Did I mention that when they brought my plate out there was a cherry on it? How did they know cherries are my absolute favorites?

Random Thought #5: I hope that you are all loving the Love Stories just as much as I am. I can't believe the amount of feedback there has been. Well I can because these women are truly amazing! Every story is unique and wonderful. I will be posting another one this evening! There are many more following so be sure to keep checking back ♥

Random Thought #6: I'm ready to let go a little so all the jeans that are sitting up in my closet on shelves I'll be going through. Even though I know there are some too small to fit me I will try each pair on. There are old pairs again.. that are too small to even get up my leg and I keep them there thinking I will lose weight. I realize if I do lose anymore weight I will be sick and that's not good. So I'm finally OK with letting go of them. I may even do a fun post on it this week. I think it'll be good for me and perhaps it'll help other people out too!

This was my favorite pair that ripped a while back and they're no longer here...so... RIP baby blues

I love you all - sending fabulous thoughts your way! ♥

Katie