Baby Bump Diaries

Interview: A Bloggy Mom, motherhood from my laptop and other nonsense

Amanda — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 05:56:40 +0000

A little while ago, I stumbled upon a gem while perusing the interwebs. It is called Bloggy Moms and it is an online community for Moms who blog. Naturally I joined, both because I love niche social networks and because I happen to be a mom who blogs. Quickly I found out more about its creator, Tiffany Noth and knew I had to interview her immediately! You see, it turns out she is a multi tasking online maven who makes family first and also homeschools. Love it (and deets on how she does it below). I also love that she knows what Angelfire was circa 1997. If you’re drawing a blank on this reference then just picture me and Bloggy Mom as teenagers tinkering on the interwebs before WordPress was even a twinkle in Matt Mullenweg’s eye.

Anyway, now days Tiffany runs a network of very bloggy websites, which include:

ABloggyMom.com: Her home base and personal blog.
BloggyMoms.com: A mom blog community.
BloggyConference.com: A website for the upcoming Bloggy conference, which will be held for the first time in 2011.

Check out what she is all about and join Bloggy Moms. Links to Tiffany’s social things are at the end of this post.

Here is the interview. Enjoy!

What sparked the idea to create the BloggyMoms community?

I wanted to create a place where mommy bloggers could go and meet others who share similar interest, desires, questions and struggles as well as learn and grow in the mom blogosphere. I love reading mom blogs and am disheartened when I find a really great blog and then realize it hasn’t been updated in months or years. I want mommy bloggers to know they aren’t alone and there are others who can help them in this journey.

If someone were to describe your blog (abloggymom.com) what three words would they most likely use?

Informative. Funny. Snarky. I try to provide a lot of information on ABloggyMom as well as other sites on the Bloggy Moms network. I think I’m funny, but I’m sure that’s debatable and I guess, unfortunately, I’m rather snarky…. which I actually hope comes off as funny.

How has blogging impacted your life? Good, the bad, and the ugly.

I have been building websites and blogging since I was in high school. I honestly can’t imagine it not being a part of my life. For me, it’s like breathing. It’s as necessary as oxygen.

The good: it helps to fulfill me.
The bad: I’m not sure there is a bad.
The ugly: unfortunately there are mean people in the blogosphere just as in real life. Sometimes you’ll be disliked simply for being yourself… but let it roll, it isn’t worth it.

What is the best thing that has happened to you because of your blog?

I have been able to meet some very incredible, intelligent and strong women. If it weren’t for blogging, I wouldn’t have had those opportunities.

Who are a few of your favorite bloggers or women you have met online that you can share with us?

One of my favorite mommy bloggers happens to be a Bloggy Moms member right from my hometown. We never met prior to Bloggy Moms even though our town is literally the size of a college campus. So small! Her name is Sherry and you can check out her blog City Chic on a Farm.

How do you balance blogging, motherhood, and all of the other demands life throws at you? Not to mention multiple websites.

My family is my first priority. Their needs come first. I’m not a “Quiet, mommy’s building her brand!” sort of mom. My five year old daughter knows I work on the computer but also sees that it isn’t taking away from her time.

I have always been a very organized person. If I didn’t have my daily planners, lists and agendas…. I wouldn’t be able to do it! Thankfully I have a husband who sees my joy in doing what I do… and helps me along the way.

What does a typical day look like in your world while managing the websites, family, and everything else?

I am an early riser, my day starts anywhere between 4:30 and 5:30am. I love being awake before everyone else and having a little quiet, coffee time while I review activity on the Bloggy Moms network of sites. I try to accomplish at least a handful of tasks before beginning the day with my family.

Once the family is awake, I am in full mama/wife mode! We get our day started and usually home school in the morning. I often check in online during recess and again after lunch. My afternoons are filled with observing homework, completing housework and hopefully checking things off my never-ending to-do list!

We have dinner as a family and usually spend the evening just being together. I am of course checking in with Bloggy Moms when I have a moment.

What is your best advice for brand new bloggers?

Don’t give up, you aren’t alone! Every blogger was a new blogger at first. If you have a question… the answer is out there. Hopefully I’ll be able to better provide the answers as Bloggy Moms continues to grow.

You have almost 3,000 members on Bloggy Moms (and growing), how did you feel at certain points – like getting your first member that you didnt know or hitting 100 members?

I was over the moon when the first member joined Bloggy Moms, so it’s hard to describe how I felt when we reached 100 and so forth… We are nearing 3,000 members and I honestly wish we could have a party! I would love to get to meet each and every Bloggy Mom. We are all so unique yet so very much alike.

What is the Bloggy Conference all about and what can someone expect when they go?

Bloggy Conference is for anyone involved in social media. If you feel you are a well seasoned blogger, it’s for you! If you know you need more direction in blogging, it’s for you! If you want to meet other bloggers, it’s for you!

My hope is that Bloggy Conference attendees will walk away with not only a greater sense of community but having learned something they didn’t even know they needed to know.

What types of speakers and sessions do you think you will have this year? Is it mainly moms who blog that attend or do you get a mix of all types of bloggers?

This will be the first Bloggy Conference! I am so excited and nervous at the same time. I had played with the idea of having a conference in years to come, however I had members and fans of Bloggy Moms requesting one in 2011. Their timing grew on me and here we go!

A few of the speakers currently lined up for Bloggy Conference ’11 are:

Mary McCarthy from Pajamas And Coffee
Social Media Strategist, Kadi Prescott
Joscelyn Ramos Campbell from Mami of Multiples

We will cover topics ranging from the basics of blogging to working with brands.

What can readers expect to see on your websites in the coming months?

I am in the process of launching BloggyMomazine.com, this will be an added resource to those you will find on Bloggy Moms. I am also in the process of creating more localized groups/resources for our U.S. based members.

Connect with Tiffany Noth

Facebook
Twitter

Chime In

What are your thoughts on niche social networks? Do you belong to any social networks aside from Facebook? What about conferences? Will you be attending any blogging related conferences in 2011? Post in the comments. I would love to hear from you.

My First Half Marathon

Amanda — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 19:34:33 +0000

On Sunday November 7th I ran a half marathon with a cold and probably not enough training. That is 13.1 miles. I trained for about 5 weeks with a great group of woman from the fitness class I teach on weekday mornings and my husband. It was so inspiring so see them commit to it and then finish the race. We weren’t going for the fastest times or glory. We just wanted to do it. On my bucket list is a full marathon (see my about page). So this is something I wanted to do so I could work up to the full. A full marathon is about 26 miles, twice what I did on Sunday. And now I know I need a heck of a lot more training if I want to run 26 miles.

The weekend of the race I came down with a cold. But I decided to do it anyway since we had worked so hard as a group. I relied on the adrenaline from the race and a dose of cold medicine.

At the beginning of the race I felt amazing. The energy from the crowd was there and I was happy to have finally made it to the big day. I had my iPod rocking my favorite tunes and I could see my girls running their big race and feel their excitement. Around mile 7 I saw a runner go down and start seizing. I yelled, “Call 911, runner down!” Immediately there was a crowd around him and people where on their cell phones. At mile 9 I started to feel nauseated and saw another runner go down from leg cramps. I am not sure if it was the cold and my body telling me I was over my limit or if it was the yellow Gatorade I decided to drink at one station instead of water. The nausea continued off and on. For the last few miles I walked and ran off and on depending on the nausea. At mile 11 I saw the light at the end of the tunnel. I knew there would only be 2 miles left and that I could do it. I could finish. I thought of my two year old daughter waiting for me at the finish line. I found my favorite song on my iPod and pushed through every aching bone in my body. I sprinted through the finish line. They handed me a medal for finishing. I had a time of 2 hours and 35 minutes. My husband finished in 2 hours and 19 minutes.

The rest of the day I was done for. Exhausted, sick, and my knees ached like they were bashed in with a baseball bat. Sorry if that is graphic, but that is literally how it felt. The second day my muscles were so sore I couldn’t walk up or down the stairs in my house, or walk for that matter. The third day was better. The pain was easing up. And here we are at day 4. I am still sore but I am much better off.

So would I do it again? In a heartbeat! . But give me a few more days. LOL.

No related posts.

Interview: Heir to Blair, the insanity of making & baking a baby & the motherhood that follows

Amanda — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 20:37:07 +0000

This week I am so happy to bring you an interview with a very inspirational blogger and woman. She goes by Blair and writes the blog Heir to Blair. She is funny and best of all she is real. I love reading her blog because she is a damn good writer. She writes in a way that lets you feel her emotions and nod in agreement – like yes girl that happened to me too, I hear you. Plus she is on her way to winning a few battles that many of us face, including: postpartum depression, weight loss, working, and all while raising a young man. Thus she is a big source of of encouragement, hope, and support – whether or not she realizes it.

Links her to social goodies are below. Visit her and show her some love.

Here is the interview:

1. What do you want readers to take away from your blog? What do you hope to accomplish with it?
In the beginning, I started the blog as a personal outlet with no readers. It was a way to marinate on my life. & I hope in so many ways, it is the same. I’ve detoured a little, grown a lot, but at the end of the day, I just want to be good for a laugh & a “me too.” I want people to walk away knowing that they’re not alone & that someone out there (aka me) is more crazy than they could ever dream of being. There’s something beautiful in knowing that you have a friend in the battle, whether it’s motherhood, weight loss, mental illness, or just life in general.

2. How has blogging impacted your life? Good, the bad, and the ugly.
There is so much good – it’s an outlet for my insanity, a place to laugh & feel community & have other people reassure me that my life isn’t wasted space. It’s allowed me to start a college fund for my son, to connect to other women that are suffering postpartum depression, & to receive encouragement about every aspect of my life. It’s like ice cream & a warm cup of coffee all wrapped up into one.

But the flip side of it is that by putting it all out there, I’m vulnerable in a way that some like to attack. They attack how I lose weight, that I returned to work, that I simply blog. I’ve been called names, been put down, received hate mail, & even had a friend turn on me because of the blog. It’s not pretty, but when I receive an email from a reader saying that she called her doctor after reading a post about postpartum depression, it makes it worth it. When 50 people tell me to keep going on a Monday morning after I’ve pigged out all weekend & gained weight, it’s so worth it.

3. What is the best thing that has happened to you because of your blog?
Meeting some INCREDIBLE women. Working with wonderful companies & their employees, & also helping to promote small business owners. My blog reminds me daily that mothers & women are strong & powerful & smart & sensitive. I think society needs to remember that when there are so many forces trying to argue against it. & it’s taught me that I can be just as fantastic – it’s so easy to tear myself down, but the blog is an accomplishment of both emotions & business & friendship. & it’s a daily reminder that I can make a difference.

4. How do you balance blogging, motherhood, and all of the other demands life throws at you?
OH LORD. I don’t. Ha!! I wish I had a magic wand that would make it all fall into place beautifully, but for now I just hang on to a thread & pray that I make it through each day. But in all seriousness, I think the big thing is to simply fall in love with your own reality – I read that in a blog this week & loved that idea. Let’s say I want to work out (ha!!) – in reality, I don’t have the time & resources to join a gym, go to an hour-long kickboxing class, & then sit in a sauna. I WISH. But the reality is, I can pop in a 30-minute workout DVD & still get the rush of endorphins & burn calories. It may not be exactly what I want, but it’s my reality & it’s what I can afford both time-wise & monetarily. It’s my reality. & I have to accept it. Same with cooking (I don’t cook every night), cleaning (my house stays a little messy these days), & even doing my hair (hello, ponytail!).

5. What do you love most about motherhood right now?
I am falling in love with motherhood right now, & that feels SO GOOD to say. I love every single aspect of it – how he changes every day, how he shoves pancakes in his cheeks, how his smile lights up the room. But I think my favorite part is watching him with my husband – I love watching them play & interact. I love how they laugh together & wrestle & it just warms my heart to see both of my boys enjoying each other.

6. What aspect of motherhood is hardest for you?
A few months ago, I would have said EVERYTHING. Postpartum depression really stripped me of any joy & feeling of success in motherhood. Everything was too far away, way out of touch, & too difficult to comprehend. I’m doing much better with it these days. I would say that the most specific aspect that is difficult is how he changes every day – like, he’ll want pureed food for two days, but then for three days he’ll want nothing but table food & he’s spitting the puree out at me. Then he flips back. & then back again. It’s frustrating, but I try to just roll with the punches & listen to him.

7. What is your biggest triumph in motherhood so far?
Beating severe postpartum depression. I’M BEATING IT. I have been through hell & back this year, but with my incredible husband, strong son, amazing family, & gifted doctors, I am coming out on the good end. I thought that my life was over, that I had nothing left to give & I was destined to be a failure – but now, I feel like I’m finally getting a grasp on life again. & that I am worthy of this happiness. That’s a huge accomplishment that I’ve worked very hard for.

& also, I’ve kept Harrison alive for almost a year. I could never say that about any fish that I owned.

8. You are on your way to Blogher! What do you hope to get out of it this year?
This question just reminds me how crazy life is, that it’s past Blogher & I’m just answering this!! I went to Blogher hoping to be rejuvenated in blogging. I felt so burned out, so empty, & simply done with blogging & the business of blogging. I was so tired. & I flew up to NYC, met over 2,000 women that share the same passion, & I came out with a new spirit & sense of “I CAN DO THIS.” I want to write again – not for readers, but for me. It was a complete personal success.

9. You’ve been on a journey to lose some weight this year. What has been the most difficult struggle for you over the past few months?
Those weeks where NOTHING goes right. I can be on a good run of losing a ton of weight, & then BAM! life happens. Maybe work is overwhelmingly hard that week & all I can do is grab a cheeseburger because I forgot my lunch & I only have five minutes. Or maybe Harrison is teething & cranky & by the time he goes to bed at night, all I can do is pop a pizza in the oven for Nate & I to share. & there’s no time to exercise or go grocery shopping for fresh veggies, so I go an entire week without a healthy snack. Those weeks happen, but the important thing is to just stay focused in the long run – that those weeks happen, but they’re not the end of the world.

10. I love how you’ve interviewed others about their progress. What would you recommend to others who might be trying to lose weight while chasing crazy kids around the house?
Obviously, I’ve loved my success on Nutrisystem. For the most part, I don’t have to think about what I eat & if I don’t get a workout in, it doesn’t mean the end of the world. Sure, there are bad weeks like I said before, but this is the easiest & fastest weight-loss program I have ever used.

Aside from the actual program…I think my best advice is to try to incorporate your weight-loss into your life with the baby. If I need to exercise & Harrison is whiny & needing something to do, then I put him in the stroller & go for a run. He loves the change of scenery & I get in a workout. I offer him veggies that I made for myself – carrots, squash, green beans. It’s a good way of starting to teach him a healthy lifestyle by setting the example & making him a part of it.

11. You also have a section dedicated to the Ronald McDonald House charity. What inspired you to choose this cause? How can people get involved/support you in this?
I love Ronald McDonald House Charities. LOVE. I learned about them as a sister of Alpha Delta Pi in college, because RMHC is our official charity. I decided that I needed to give back – to do something, even if it was simply blogging to raise awareness. It’s a slow process to build, but one that I am very excited about. I hope that in the future, it will inspire readers to volunteer at their local house, or to join me in running a 5K this fall, or to simply donate to the charities. It does not take much to make a difference.

12. What direction is your blog taking in the near future? What can readers expect to see there?
I’m really, really focused on getting “back to the basics.” Of writing. Of telling stories & simply sharing our lives & my opinions (even when they’re wrong). I detoured quite a bit this year, but I am ready to return to simply being a blogger. It’s refreshing for me & I hope readers also find it refreshing. & funny.

Show her some love:

Blog
Twitter
Facebook
Youtube

Thoughts? Post them in the comments. Would love to hear from you.

Interview: OMommaWrites, where writing is how sanity is found amongst diapers, laundry, and homework

Amanda — Sat, 07 Aug 2010 16:15:13 +0000

The first thing that drew me into Leah’s blog, aside from the very cute design, was was the clever tagline: “Where writing is how sanity is found amongst diapers, laundry, and homework”. I immediately loved it because it is so true!

I also treasure her writing because it is coming from a place very similar to mine- a very fertile place where pregnancy decides to come before marriage. : ) When reading the answers below I almost feel as if I wrote them!

She is a Mom, wife, and student making life work for her and her family. If you are up for a very moving story I recommend reading her story. Since then I’ve been hooked. I love her pregnancy updates complete with adorable pictures of her growing belly!

Links to her website are at the end of this page. Check it out and send her some love!

Here is the interview. Enjoy!

What do you want readers to take away from your blog? What do you hope to accomplish with it?
My blog started as a place to just keep family updated and capture my life as it changed drastically at age 19 when I was pregnant with Savannah and soon after married. In the past 4 years it has moved beyond to a place where I hope most of all readers can relate and know that young moms, birthmoms, moms who have miscarried, who-ever! Have someone who has been there. I also hope it’s a tool for awareness for people who haven’t been in the situations I have to see what life is like dealing with real emotions/issues that come up in adoption, as a young mom, finishing college as a mom, having lost a child in pregnancy, etc. I strive to show that I am more than just a stereotype that the media may portray a certain way or people think they know about my “labels.”

How has blogging impacted your life? Good, the bad, and the ugly.
Blogging is my often my outlet in life, whether it’s taking the time to design it or writing posts when I get a chance in my busy life. I’ve wanted to be a writer for years and while I haven’t finished my book or achieved a true writing career, my blog is a sense of accomplishment for me to fulfill that writing desire. It feels like my own little project that I’m proud to put effort in to. In turn, it has connected me with countless great readers who have turned into friends and being able to work with great companies I otherwise wouldn’t have known about.

The ugly? Is being vulnerable to millions of people publicly. People have stolen my pictures in the past and created their own website pretending to be me, causing me to have to take extra steps in trying to protect my photos and family. Anti-adoption people have “attacked” my blog, my decisions, and my family. I’ve had to put an extra wall up when reading comments and learn how to brush off ones that are hurtful. It’s scary at times to think about our lives so open to anyone, but I feel like my writing and life has purpose and needs to be shared to connect with others.

What is the best thing that has happened to you because of your blog?
Honestly, the benefits of working with companies have brought about some awesome “blessings” that has helped our young, cash-strapped family tremendously. To be clear, the benefits of sponsorship is not why I blog and I often turn down companies because I don’t want my blog to be all about promotions and giveaways. But, absolutely the best thing was receiving $500 to buy and review Linden Street home products thanks to BlogHer. This really helped us out as were 20 at the time, still technically newlyweds, living at my in-laws, both my husband and I in college, etc. and didn’t have money to purchase much of our own stuff.

How do you balance blogging, motherhood, pregnancy, and all of the other demands life throws at you?
I honestly feel like I’m out of balance most of the time! But, I just do what I can and take it one day at a time and focus on what is priority. One day that might be resting and hanging out with Savannah because I am just exhausted, another day that might be cleaning the house, the next day it may be catching up on blog related things. And of course, being a Mom to Savannah on top of all those things! I make a lot of lists to help me know and remember what needs to be done.

What do you love most about this pregnancy right now?
Absolutely, it is feeling Jaxson move. Since I lost twin babies last year in early pregnancy, his movement not only is just fun to watch and feel but also a comfort to know he is alive and doing well in there. Besides that, I also love my body right now. I feel most beautiful and womanly while pregnant, actually having curves for a change!

What aspect of this pregnancy is hardest for you?
I would say it would be the fear that lingers at the back of my mind. Having experienced a miscarriage last year, it has changed my experience and perspective of pregnancy to see what a true gift a healthy baby is. Now that I’m nearly in my third trimester the fear has subsided greatly but the first trimester I was a nervous wreck anxiously awaiting every doctor appointment and ultrasound. And, even when I had the “proof” everything was okay I would still find something to worry about. I still worry about all the what-if’s but hope and excitement surpasses those fear now.

What made you decide to start a family in your early 20s? What some would say is “so young”? I am in my 20s also.
Well, it was basically decided for us since we weren’t as careful as we should have been! Mark and I knew we wanted to be together forever and eventually would start a family, having Savannah just made it happen a little sooner. It definitely has had its challenges but we have had so much great support and blessings along the way. I wouldn’t change it. I love being a young mom and having established our family, our house, a marriage at “such a young age.” Again, it’s a sense of accomplishment for me to know we’ve taken a hard situation and moved beyond it with hard work and support. I feel like I’ll be able to connect with my kids easier as they grow since I’m not that much older than they are and we like the added bonus of having an empty nest in our 40’s!

So, how are you the cutest and most stylish prego that ever lived with a 3 year old running around and a husband you take care of?
Aw, thanks. What you don’t see on my blog is me sitting in my husband’s huge shirt right now with no makeup and crazy hair. I’m not always cute and stylish! But for when I do make an effort, my secret is lots of good sales! Old Navy and Target maternity are my best friends. I rarely ever buy anything full price because we are on a budget and I need more for my money. That, and I really think that a person’s outside can reflect their inside and right now I feel on top of the world. Call it a pregnancy “glow” if you wish, but happiness can make any outfit look good!

What can readers expect to see on your blog in the coming months?
Less posts as a new baby takes over my time? Just kidding. I expect that I’ll still be doing what I do now, trying to be real about life as it comes up and posting when I can. Definitely expect belly and baby pictures, and hopefully a natural birth story since I’m taking a different birthing route this time around.

Visit her websites and send her some love!

Website: Omommawrites.com

Reviews By Leah: Reviews.Omommawrites.com

Interview: The Young Mommy Life, a real look at a 20 something Mom

Amanda — Sat, 31 Jul 2010 05:26:08 +0000

I recently had the honor of interview Tara P., the fabulous woman behind The Young Mommy Life. A blog and community of Moms that takes a real look at the life of a 20 something Mom.

I love this blog so much because I am also a 20 something Mom and have had many of the same thoughts and feelings over the past two years. It was hard to give up my late nights in high heels, disposable income, and sleep whenever I wish. But I would not trade it for anything in the world and am so glad I have a child at this age.

Links to her website and social communities are below. Check it out and send her some love!

Here is the interview. Enjoy!

What do you want readers to take away from your blog? What do you hope to accomplish with it?
I want readers (young moms, defined as moms who had their first kid before 25…or more broadly, in their 20s) to feel like they are not alone in their struggles. Because you don’t see young moms that much in the media (in books, TV, movies) and you might not have a lot of mom friends your own age, you wonder if you are the only person in the world to be going through a situation. Just hearing (or reading) someone else say, “I just went through this, too!” can be very comforting. Sometimes I’ll write a really personal post (like my struggle with postpartum depression) and I will get e-mails for months after, with moms opening up and telling me how much they could relate. That’s amazing to me.

How has blogging impacted your life? Good, the bad, and the ugly.
I get less sleep now, and sometimes I have to remind myself that not EVERYTHING is a blog post. But on the whole, I get less frustrated and I have more patience, because my readers remind me that the same thing I go through, they go through it too. I also feel if I have questions, I can ask my readers. They’re a wise group.

What is the best thing that has happened to you because of your blog?
I found my true passion. I will be heading to grad school in the fall to get a Master’s in Family Studies. The blog has grown so much in the past two years and I want to make sure I continue to grow with it.

How do you balance blogging, motherhood, and all of the other demands life throws at you?
I try to make sure when my kids are awake, I’m with them as much as possible. I keep a notepad close by if an idea hits me, but for the most part, I blog after they go to sleep. I also work full-time, so once I get home, it’s their time. Then I spend a little time with my husband and I blog while he watches sports. It all works out. For the past year or so, I’ve tried to make sure I’ve posted consistently five times a week, which is difficult, but it can be done.

What do you love most about motherhood right now?
I might be alone in this, but I love the toddler stage. My kids are 3 and 2 and they are crazy with a capital C-R-A-Z-Y. But they learn so much every day and they still love my kisses. It’s a perfect age for me!

What aspect of motherhood is hardest for you?
Discipline, for sure. I don’t know when I’m being too hard or too soft. At times I’m like, “Well, my son is only 2,” then I think, “Shouldn’t he know better?” It’s hard. I try to be consistent, but I have to be flexible in terms of what works. So it’s an ongoing process for me.

What is your biggest triumph in motherhood so far?
Honestly? Still being married despite the demands of parenthood. I was a mess the first year of my daughter’s life and if I had been married to a lesser man, we would have gotten divorced. I was resentful of how my life had changed in every regard and his just kind of sailed on like it had been. At one point I was in tears every single day. Sometimes about little things, sometimes about big things. But I couldn’t make it 24 hours without crying. It was hard but we made it through it. So ringing in our anniversary this year was very special to me.

What would be your best advice for new, young mothers who aren’t prepared for or weren’t expecting this new role as a mother?
Take a deep breath. Take the first couple months to focus on the baby. “Learn” your kid. Do the best you can. Then, once you feel you’ve gotten the hang of things, map out your life goals. You do not want your kid to be the reason you didn’t do things you always had your heart set on. Wanted to be a doctor? How can you fulfill your goals in a way that fits into your new life? Maybe there’s another segment of the medical field that would work and you would still be fulfilled in a way outside your role as Mommy.

Tell us about the book project you have been working on.
For a close to a year now, I’ve been working on a book for young moms that discusses how to take care of ourselves. So much of the literature geared to young moms focuses on teaching the young mom baby basics and how to care for a baby. That’s valuable, but if the emotional needs of a young mom aren’t met, resentment can build and get in the way of their ability to be great moms. I’ve been asking moms all over the globe for their advice and compiling it into a book. It will focus on creating that map of how you want your life to look – and that kids can sometimes propel you farther than you knew you could go.

When do you expect your book to be released?
Right now it should be released in mid-2011.

What direction is your blog taking in the near future? What can readers expect to see there?
I want to do a better job of reaching out to moms in every circumstance. More single mom posts, more young married mom posts, more just-barely-making-ends-meet moms, mom with a little extra cash to spend looking to pamper themselves. Starting grad school, I hope to wring a bunch of posts out of that!

Website: http://www.theyoungmommylife.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theyoungmommylife

Twitter: http://twitter.com/TheYoungMommy

Doesn’t she rock? What are your thoughts on the young mommy experience/life? Post them in the comments!

Healthy & Fresh Meal Planning for Small Families

Amanda — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 17:39:38 +0000

My husband, daughter, and I recently moved into a small apartment. We moved out of a house where there was anywhere from 5-10 people eating out of the same kitchen. Now, we are adjusting to planning meals for just the 3 of us – with one of us only eating small toddler size meals. Of course, there are some benefits. Overall, we are buying less food and it takes less effort to prepare meals.

However, there are also drawbacks to feeding a small family. It is a lot easier to waste food since many recipes are made for at least four adults. Many of the suggestions I’ve read include things like freezing food, using leftovers, or eating canned or boxed foods. With the exception of leftovers, these other options are not as appealing to me since I prefer to eat and feed my family fresh, whole foods as much as possible.

Here are my tips for healthy, whole food cooking for small families:

Change your cookbook. There are a lot of cook book options with recipes designed to feed less than four people. Try books that are geared toward cooking for 2 or small portions. This eliminates the need for reducing recipes, calculations, or having a lot of leftovers.
Keep it simple. Staples like salads and mixed vegetables are easy to prepare in small amounts. For example, if you buy carrots, broccoli and other fresh veggies they will keep in the refrigerator for a few days and you can chop and steam them as needed for a dinner side or dip them in hummus for a healthy snack. Pair these as dinner sides with steamed or baked chicken breasts or fish fillets. If the meat comes in a pack of 4, you can cook two one night and two the next night. The first night you have it with a side salad and the second night with mixed veggies.
Plan in advance. With just a few people, it is easy to opt for take out. But planning meals in advance will help you save money and consume healthier foods. Try planning meals 2 weeks at a time and then repeat it. This gives you an entire month of meal options, which will also save time. And you are only eating the same meal 2 times a month.
Use leftovers. If you have recipes that will keep, cook them for dinner. Then store leftovers in serving size portion storage containers. Have each person take one for lunch the next day. This makes lunch super easy and inexpensive.
Choose a Staple Breakfast. The main thing we like to eat for breakfast is fresh fruit. It is easy, delicious, and fast. I like to call it the original fast food. Make it your breakfast staple. Then you can vary it a little each day by adding different sides – yogurt, granola, a muffin or toast.
Dinner Sides for Lunch. Plan dinner meals that have sides you can also eat as a meal for lunch. If you plan on having a side salad with dinner, you can turn that side into a lunch as well. This makes your shopping list shorter and you will have all of the ingredients on hand. You can also cook some extra meat for dinner the night before – like shrimp – and add it to the top of a big salad for lunch.
Only Plan Dinner. With a staple breakfast and leftovers or dinner sides for lunch, this leaves dinner the main meal to plan around each day. Start there and see how creative you can get!

What are your ideas? Post them in the comments! We would love to hear them.

Frugal Momma: The $50 Nursery

Amanda — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 19:51:43 +0000

How can you furnish and decorate a nursery for just $50?

1. Hand me downs
It takes a village to raise a child…and to fill their material needs. Start collecting early in pregnancy, so you know what to register for when it comes time for the baby shower.

2. Thrift stores
With a little time, you can come across some really great finds and save yourself a bundle! It helps to make a list of everything you will need, and then keep a lookout when you visit.

3. Craigslist
Never buy big ticket items new without checking here first. Chances are you can get it for below half the retail price.

4. Garage sales
Keep an open mind when it comes to garage sales, it might be out of date but still fun or useful!

5. Clearance
Your favorite store’s clearance pile is the way to go for trendy new things.

Do:

Be patient.
Find an inspiration room for an idea of what to be looking for when you shop.
Use lists and only buy what you need.
Be flexible.
Make do. Appreciate what you do have, and teach your children to do so. Teach them the value of money, the importance of gratitude, and how to be content. Help them to give to others and be generous.

Don’t:

Spend a lot of money early in pregnancy. You never know what the future will hold.
Stress about stuff. All babies really need is milk, a roof over their heads and clean clothes.

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46 Status Updates to Announce Your Pregnancy on Facebook, MySpace or Twitter

Amanda — Wed, 12 May 2010 01:33:29 +0000

Ready to make the big announcement about your pregnancy to your social networking friend’s list? Here are the top ways to update your status: the good, the bad, and the hilarious.

How did you update your status when you announced your pregnancy? Do you have any clever, funny or good ideas? Post it in the comments so we can add it to the list! Include a link to your blog so we can credit your idea in the article.

…is pregnant…….what’s your excuse?!
…has a baby in her belly.
…is thinking of names.
…is looking up baby names.
Riddle: What bounces but should never be dropped?
Riddle: What gets a shower but doesn’t get wet?
Change your profile picture to your pregnancy test or ultrasound picture and write (Name) is wondering how observant people are these days.
…has a bun in the oven.
…is pregnant <3
3′s company in the (Your Last Name) household.
(1st child name) is going to be a big sister!
(Last Name) baby bump watch confirmed. Due in (month).
…is knocked up.
…is freaking out much less now than she was 12 weeks ago.
…is going to need a bigger car.
…is nurturing her inner child…literally.
…is cooking a bun with her husband.
…has a bun in the oven and it’s (Partner’s Name) fault!
…is creating life, because that’s how I roll. Should be done the beginning to middle of April.
I hope three is easier than two.
…is expecting the unexpected…. on or around (due date).
…is smuggling watermelons.
(Your Name) + (Husband’s Name) = Baby #1
Coming soon to a hospital near you…..baby #1!
… is growing a penis.
…is growing a playmate for (1st child’s name).
…is increasing her reproductive success to 1.
Remember that great family vacation we took to the (Vacation Destination)? Looks like we brought home an unexpected souvenir.
…apparently has two heartbeats right now.
…is growing brains and kidneys. Hard work.
…is tickled pink!
…is hoping I’m not going to be this tired for the whole 9 months!
…is well and truly knackered and is starting to show!
…is going to be a baby mama!
(Husband’s Name), is it ok if we tell everyone we are pregnant now?
… has bid adieu to her toes and will see them again on (Due Date).
…is spawning.
….is craving pickles.
…. is growing a person.
… is “full of life.”
Opps I did it again.
…is announcing her pregnancy.
…is freaking out, her Easter Egg was fertilized!
…is eating for two.
…My eggo is preggo.
Use a poem: We have a little Valentine, Although it’s still brand new. You’ll meet our little Valentine, Its September, when we’re due!

29 Creative Ways to Announce Pregnancy Plus Video and 14 Facebook Status Updates

Amanda — Sun, 09 May 2010 17:27:53 +0000

Whether it is your first, second or tenth baby, there are so many creative ways to announce pregnancy. Do you have a creative or favorite idea for announcing a pregnancy or a story about how you announced your pregnancy? Post it in the comments.

Ways to Announce Pregnancy to Family

Take a picture of you and your partner and get a blank card. Inside write, “Day Trip to Catalina: $70, Dinner at an expensive restaurant: $100, New Shoes she had to have: $50, Knowing there are actually THREE people in this photo: Priceless.”
Play a family game like Pictionary, scrabble, or shrades. And spell it out for them.
Make invitations for a birthday party with the date as your due date.
Put the sonogram on the refrigerator and see how long it takes them to find it.
Make or buy shirts that say, “Happy Aunt”
Wrap a small gift for each person (booties, binky) and have them open it at the same time.
Have movie night but only rent movies like Father of the Bride 2, Look Who’s Talking, Knocked Up, etc.
Bake cupcakes and use blue or pink frosting on them. Decorate them with plus signs or baby candies.
Send out a letter or email that says, “Updating our list of family birthdays”. List everyones birthday and the due date for the new baby.
Create a family tree with pictures of everyone. Leave a spot for the new baby with a picture of the sonogram or a stork and the due date.
Start a pregnancy blog and send the link to everyone via email or Facebook.
Make a scrapbook with your family pictures. On the last page make a page about the new baby that says something like, “Coming Soon, Due Date, and picture of the positive pregnancy test”

Ways to Announce Pregnancy to Grandparents

Create a gift certificate or coupon that says, “Good for one grandchild”.
Wrap a picture of the first sonogram up and have them open it.
Make or buy shirts that say, “Happy Grandma!”
Get a mothers or fathers day card for Grandma/Grandpa and put a picture of the sonogram or positive pregnancy test inside with the due date and a special note

If you already have other children (or pets!)

Buy or make a shirt that says I am going to be a big sister or big brother and have them wear it around the house until people catch on.
Get a picture frame that will hold a photo of your first child and the new baby. In the spot for the new baby put a note that says, “Reserved for Baby #2”.
Make a photo slideshow of your childs photos and on the last slide put “Coming this Summer, Baby #2”.Send it to them or display it at the next family event.

Ways to Announce Pregnancy to your Husband

Buy him a copy of Expectant Father or other parenting/pregnancy books and give them as a gift.
Get customized fortune cookies that say, “You will be a father by .”
Write “Baby on Board” on your belly in eyeliner and let your husband discover it.

Announce it on Facebook

(Also check out my 46 Ways to Announce Your Pregnancy on Facebook)

Use these creative status updates to announce your pregnancy to all of your Facebook friends

, is it ok if we tell everyone we are pregnant now?
… has bid adieu to her toes and will see them again in mid-February
.. is spawning
…is thinking up baby names
….is growing a penis.(if having a boy)
….is craving pickles.
…. is growing a person.
… is “full of life.”
… is caring for her inner child.
Opps I did it again
…is announcing her pregnancy
…is freaking out, her Easter Egg was fertilized!
…is eating for two.
…My eggo is preggo.

Video Pregnancy Announcements

#29: Send them a link to this page!!

Post your ideas and stories in the comments. I would love to hear them!

Make a Pact to Fight the Frump

Amanda — Sat, 01 May 2010 20:41:14 +0000

I love my husband. He is the most handsome man on this planet. We have known each other for a long time – since I was 12 years old. Still to this day I catch him looking at me like he wants to pounce and I love it. There is something very powerful in knowing your partner wants to do unspeakable things with you. It fuels a passion in our relationship and helps us maintain a healthy sex life – and I can’t stress the importance of a healthy married sex life enough.

We have made a pact to each other to keep fit and never let our bodies go physically due to laziness or not taking care of ourselves. Of course, we will always love each other blindly and know that one day we will both be wrinkly and sag in places we didn’t know we had. But the journey there will be so pact with passion and romance that by the time we get to that point we will still be so deeply in love that sags and wrinkles won’t matter.

Loving my husband is the only motivation I need to take care of myself. He is seriously a gift from God. I want to be healthy for him. I want to be fit for him. I want to look crazy hot in a bathing suite for him.

Not My Husband...LOL

When I lose inspiration, I think back to the years I was dating him or anyone else for that matter. Every time I saw him I made sure I was done up – mascara, hair, the whole nine yards. Honestly, if I put that much effort in for someone that I wasn’t committed to spending my life with – then I sure as hell should put at least that much effort in for my husband!

Sure, there are days when it is really hard. I forget, I get busy, my daughter is having a meltdown, and there are deadlines for work. But I step back to look at the bigger picture. My kids will grow up and leave the house. There is life after children or work, and that life I will share with my husband. So ladies! Exercise and eat healthy! Let’s be presentable when they get home from work. Wear that shirt he says he loves to see you in. Fight the Frump. Bring out your inner sexy (I know it is there) and take care of yourself! Trust me, your husband will LOVE this.

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