tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84726277161239546992024-03-12T20:01:11.254-04:00Mamalicious MamasBehind the scenes of our Mommy GroupAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-48881938403285886742014-08-06T00:30:00.000-04:002014-08-06T00:30:00.962-04:00Wordless Wednesday - Push! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oLoRWvGERp8/U9MNrECY94I/AAAAAAAAHHc/mL2yEt4-HS0/s1600/20140719_114450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oLoRWvGERp8/U9MNrECY94I/AAAAAAAAHHc/mL2yEt4-HS0/s1600/20140719_114450.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Helping Dad</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-78813439656344600712014-07-30T22:58:00.000-04:002014-07-30T23:07:37.245-04:00Digital Book Review GBSMM - Social Media MasteryExcuse me while I stray a bit from the topic of all things Mama. I am currently enrolled in an online course - <a href="http://coned.georgebrown.ca/owa_prod/cewskcrss.P_CrseGet?subj_code=MARK&crse_numb=9049" target="_blank"><b>Social Media Marketing at George Brown College</b></a>. What can I say... Maternity leave has left me doing a complete 180. I founded <a href="https://www.facebook.com/immamalicious" target="_blank"><b>The Mamalicious Mamas</b></a>, run their <a href="http://www.meetup.com/Scarborough-Pickering-Mamalicious-Mamas"><b>Meetup board</b></a> and maintain a Twitter account and Facebook presence online. In the meantime I had discovered that businesses actually hire individuals to manage their social media engagement. <i>#awesomeness!</i><br />
<br />
So voila! I am now working on obtaining a certificate in Social Media.<br />
<br />
My current project is a Digital Book Review on my reading choice <b><i><a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Social-Media-Mastery-Daily-Actions-ebook/dp/B00GURAUAC" target="_blank">Social Media Mastery (A Daily Actions Guide): 75 Daily Challenges to Help you Expand your Reach, Build your Platform, and Establish your Online Authority</a></i>.</b><br />
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/518KxMORvpL._AA278_PIkin4,BottomRight,-51,22_AA300_SH20_OU15_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/518KxMORvpL._AA278_PIkin4,BottomRight,-51,22_AA300_SH20_OU15_.jpg" /></a></div>
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I chose this book because I learn well through practice vs theory. The author Dr. Tara Ross applies 75 daily challenges to <i>"help you expand your reach, build your platform, and establish your online authority"</i>. Some of the areas that I've expanded my knowledge:<br />
- integrating social media accounts<br />
- embedding content<br />
- interacting with groups.<br />
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Tara Ross' daily challenge format assists you to take small, actionable steps that will help toward developing social media mastery.<br />
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I took in my first Kindle purchase on my smart phone and tablet. On my half hour lunch at work I was able to read, absorb and on occasion - quickly complete a challenge. On Fridays I would go on <a href="http://www.twitter.com/mamaliciousca" target="_blank"><b>Twitter</b></a>, retweet and #FF (Follow Friday). I registered on Scoop.it and was able to update my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/immamalicious" target="_blank"><b>Facebook page</b></a> with relevant information. My <a href="http://uk.pinterest.com/MamaliciousCa/" target="_blank"><b>Pinterest</b></a> account became a business account and I learned how to <a href="http://www.instagram.com//mamaliciousmamas" target="_blank"><b>Instagram</b></a>.<br />
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(Notice that I bolded those platforms? They link to my accounts. Some would call this a shameless plug... I like to refer to this as "Pushing my Content". A technique learned in this book)<br />
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I took a moment to thank Tara Ross on Twitter, and she replied!!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rLP8pU-mTYc/U9mbJQESkAI/AAAAAAAAHOc/4Q_rYa70yJM/s1600/%255BUNSET%255D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rLP8pU-mTYc/U9mbJQESkAI/AAAAAAAAHOc/4Q_rYa70yJM/s320/%255BUNSET%255D" height="400" width="225" /></a></div>
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Wondering which type of social media platforms to use, how to engage with others, advice and links for how-to's? Social Media Mastery (A daily Actions Guide) is definitely the book to read. I would recommend it for anyone who is already at ease with any of the social networks discussed in this book.</div>
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I created a Tag Cloud highlighting key elements taught within this book.</div>
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<a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/originals/44/dd/0f/44dd0f84ea35f21997854128d3a9fdae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/originals/44/dd/0f/44dd0f84ea35f21997854128d3a9fdae.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Please visit me on <a href="http://uk.pinterest.com/MamaliciousCa/" target="_blank"><b>Pinterest</b></a> and view my <a href="http://uk.pinterest.com/MamaliciousCa/social-media-mastery-digital-book-report-gbsmm/" target="_blank"><b>Pin Board on titled: Social Media Mastery - Digital Report GBSMM</b></a>. It contains links and images that support the information I've learned reading this book. Take a look and let me know what you think. I was definitely able to better grasp the ideas and findings of Dr. Tara Ross as I read and pinned the links to my board.</div>
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I found the book Social Media Mastery to be both relevant and timely. Not only was it published this year in January, it also referred to the most current platforms. </div>
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So have you read this book? I would love to know your thoughts.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-52331460226424237832014-07-14T00:34:00.000-04:002014-07-14T00:34:54.406-04:00Mommy DiscountsThis was one of those crazy weekends. I am pooped... Feeling behind with my school assignments. Not getting enoug sleep. Worried about C's Mom. And I believe MIssy Miu is having her first bout of diaper rash at 23 months. <br />
<br />
On the bright side, I actually did my nails (successfully) since returning back to work 10 months ago. I am always in a rush and wake up with the bed sheets imprinted in the polish. This time I bought a new polish instead of pianting my nails with an old bottle from 4 years ago. Which is why my nails never dried properly. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loreal's "Royal Reinvention"</td></tr>
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I am posting a picture of the finished look even though it is a tad sloppy. I had to tend to Missy Miu after her bedtime due to the rash. I am just proud I put myself first still to get it done. <br />
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I am also thrilled because tonight I sent out a communication to the group that they are now eligible to join a membership program and receive a group discount when purchasing tickets for events, attractions or hotels. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-18773483662584157142014-07-09T00:36:00.002-04:002014-07-09T00:36:54.293-04:00Pondering<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/t1.0-9/10509580_1452867821631697_972147512070241074_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/t1.0-9/10509580_1452867821631697_972147512070241074_n.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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I'm not too sure what she's thinking about. Maybe it's the fact that we picked up this outfit at Winners Scarborough - McCowan location at an amazing value. <br />
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Straw hat $5.99, Yellow Toddler Dress $9.99.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-21668022042754125292014-07-02T00:16:00.001-04:002014-07-02T21:07:49.536-04:00H.E.L.P. City of Toronto I love this house. It's about 30 years old with lots of original everything. We would love to have some energy efficient upgrades done, but it is so expensive. One of my concerns is our original air conditioner. It's working but I'm not sure for how long. I hate that summer feeling of fear when the hydro reading comes in.<br />
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I came across some info on H.E.L.P. The <strong>Home Energy Loan Program</strong>. The three year pilot plan is a financing tool offered by the City of Toronto to help you improve your home's energy efficiency and save money. <br />
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<em>" available in specific neighbourhoods in Toronto. The program will be expanded to additional areas in later phases of the pilot program. Current eligible areas include the following neighbourhoods:</em><br />
<em>- Black Creek: postal code that starts with M3N</em><br />
<em>- Toronto Centre/Riverdale/Beaches: M4E, M4L, M4M, M4J, M1N, M4C, M4K, M5A</em><br />
<em>- Junction/High Park: M6P, M6S</em><br />
<em>- South Scarborough: M1M, M1E, M1C, M1L, M1K, M4B"</em><br />
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It offers low interest loans to qualifying homeowners interested in improving their water and energy efficiency of the home. The homeowner repays the city through installments on their property tax bill.<br />
<br />
The potential savings may offset the cost of your monthly repayments to the city and you will be better protected against rising energy costs. You have up to 15 years to pay it off. By the way... The loan is in the property name not the owner. <em>#nocreditcheck</em>! If you move during the repayment process the new owners oversee the payments.<br />
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We applied and have been approved for a dollar amount. This week we will phone a certified energy advisor who will do an assessment of our home's insulation, heating and cooling systems and detection of air leaks and drafts.<br />
The wonderful thing about this is we could also be eligible for rebates that could be used towards our repayment plan.<br />
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I will keep you up to date on the steps, but thought you should really know about this. I'm all about saving money, energy and living green. More information can be found at Programs for Residents <a href="https://www.blogger.com/www1.toronto.ca/wps/portal/contentonly?vgnextoid=79b5fbfa98491410VgnVCM10000071d60f89RCRD." target="_blank"><strong>Home Energy Loan Program</strong></a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-40273615207710240142014-07-01T11:30:00.000-04:002014-07-08T08:20:35.951-04:00Canada Day Style 2014 Happy Canada Day! A year ago Missy Miu was in a stroller and I was trying to stop her from eating her Canadian flag.<br />
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I've kept up tradition by having her wear a Canada Day themed outfit. I decided to join her. Picked up these cool Tees from Old Navy.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-33533727248395809762014-06-25T00:21:00.002-04:002014-06-25T00:22:13.418-04:00Rain<div style="text-align: center;">
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"It's about learning to dance in the rain." </div>
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During daycare pick-up... We got <i>caught</i> in the rain.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-11731411028950143082014-06-23T22:56:00.001-04:002014-06-23T23:05:47.007-04:00Ode to L.B. That feeling after a long day at work... I just want to get home and get some me time.. A moment to myself. <br />
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That feeling during that long commute home. So tired... So dozey... That feeling of can I make it to the daycare 20 minutes early? Maybe I can enjoy a coffee at Tim Horton's... in the car... Parked.<br />
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That feeling of what it was like way back when when I had a bit of time to wind down.<br />
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Then I enter daycare... Go to her room and watch her in action. I put my finger to my lips indicating to the caregivers not to let her know I have arrived. I watch her. She's so happy. I'm so happy. I guess this is what one feels when their heart is full. <br />
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She sees me... Big smile... From her to me.. From me to her. She runs towards me. I crouch down and open my arms. Big sloppy kiss... She hugs me and pats me on the shoulder, points to me and says "Mommy". <br />
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Those feelings earlier are gone. I am with her and thankful to experience this feeling... This me kind of time. My moment for myself... My daughter time.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-53907593937335395202014-06-16T21:49:00.000-04:002014-06-16T21:50:56.213-04:00Tonight's Meal<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
Hubby made tonight's dinner. Red snapper, spinach ravioli and salad. Actually he does the majority of the cooking. <br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AYt8eRgdhZQ/U5-dkM3nq8I/AAAAAAAAF6c/Mbj80qUv6pQ/s2560/1402969418095.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AYt8eRgdhZQ/U5-dkM3nq8I/AAAAAAAAF6c/Mbj80qUv6pQ/s350/1402969418095.jpeg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a><br />
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We are really trying to curb buying take out. It's crazy expensive and not very healthy. <br />
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Missy Miu enjoyed it for the most part. We give her the same meal, but chopped up and with steamed carrots and corn instead of salad. We can successfully feed her the veggies and fish when hidden under the pasta. Then it's gloves off. She takes over and diggs out the pasta only. <br />
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The goal... No take out til Friday. <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AYt8eRgdhZQ/U5-dkM3nq8I/AAAAAAAAF6c/Mbj80qUv6pQ/s2560/1402969418095.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-28194167728049037702014-06-15T22:28:00.000-04:002014-06-26T22:31:41.980-04:00I'm Last, I Worry, I'm Sorry, I'm a BotherI am always putting other peoples needs first, preparing for the next minute, <br />
apologizing because I think I'm a bit of a "bother". I'm not sure why I am like <br />
this, but it is <em>bothering</em> me immensely. There is so much would like to <br />
accomplish. School, my group etc., but I put my needs second to last... and I <br />
haven't quite been able to get ahead. <br />
<br />
<em>So what should I do?</em><br />
- <strong>Me first...</strong> Tell hubby I need a couple of hours to work on my assignments during the <br />
weekend, give him a list to get my s*** done... heaven forbid if I forget his <br />
requests.<br />
<br />
- <strong>Live in the now...</strong> Stop worrying (so much) about tomorrow. Like I've got to <br />
get us to save more money... I've got to lose 15lbs... I've got to make sure <br />
Missy Miu has no cavities by the time we get to her first dental appointment. So <br />
I'm changing my thoughts to...<br />
- take the 407 only twice per week, go to bed earlier and buy two cups of coffee <br />
instead of three, get on my bike two times per week, Have Missy brush her teeth after each meal.<br />
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- <strong>Stop thinking I'm a nuisance...</strong> tone down the pride thing. I act like I can do <br />
everything on my own and when I need help, I think no one will be there for me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tkWeBoeVqlQ/U55UOfNvoSI/AAAAAAAAF5o/ku0O6Q3zOvE/s1600/20140614_114615.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tkWeBoeVqlQ/U55UOfNvoSI/AAAAAAAAF5o/ku0O6Q3zOvE/s1600/20140614_114615.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She's sleeping.. what do I do?</td></tr>
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Of course I have been over thinking how to get this started... <em>for like a month</em>. <br />
Then my daughter fell asleep just before we were to head out to an event. Hubby <br />
said, "I'm going to take a nap." I thought it would be a great opportunity to <br />
get a head start on laundry and do a detailed grocery list for the rest of the <br />
month. I kid you not.<br />
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I looked over at her, saw her sleeping peacefully and decided to do something for <br />
me. I caught up on my course assignments watered my garden (I do love gardening). <br />
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An hour and a half later she was up and I had an amazing day with her. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hD3jlSUjL2c/U55UAcJJZ0I/AAAAAAAAF5g/XTJQz-RIVMc/s1600/20140614_142546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hD3jlSUjL2c/U55UAcJJZ0I/AAAAAAAAF5g/XTJQz-RIVMc/s1600/20140614_142546.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hanging out at the Highland Creek Festival</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SuyAqICDREw/U55UcoX55XI/AAAAAAAAF5w/0CQY7VifGAw/s1600/20140614_143733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SuyAqICDREw/U55UcoX55XI/AAAAAAAAF5w/0CQY7VifGAw/s1600/20140614_143733.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sharing our first ice cream cone.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I can honestly say I enjoyed my time with her more because I took care of me.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0Scarborough, Toronto, ON, Canada43.7764258 -79.231752143.5929438 -79.554475599999989 43.959907799999996 -78.9090286tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-23454285370651421652014-05-26T23:26:00.000-04:002014-06-15T22:55:46.822-04:00TIME<div class="MsoNormal">
Finding <i>time</i> in
our day to day lives for a mother is like searching for the Holy Grail, trying
to find the Lost City of Atlantis or capturing the pot of gold at the end of
the rainbow…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think you get my point.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It seems pretty impossible at times. Whether you work
outside of the home or you stay at home, the majority of your day is usually
spent accomplishing goals other than your own and ensuring that the health and
well-being of people other than yourself is well taken care of. By the time you
can squeeze out a moment for yourself, you’re usually so tired that your only
achievement is brushing your teeth and crawling pitifully into bed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Okay, that may sound a bit dramatic. But you know what I
mean.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Time is fleeting</i>
and even more so when you are a mother; when you spend most of the time you
have each day caring for other people. You do this without resentment (most of
the time) and without expectation of repayment (usually); but it is not always
the easiest thing to accept that your time is not your own and not always
considered or appreciated.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Not even in the <i>bathroom</i>!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Come on, I can’t be the only one who’s had an audience of at
least one precocious preschooler while in the ‘loo’! I hope not, or else I just
revealed a tad too much. Ahem…moving on!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While sacrificing personal time is one of the things that
makes mothers the subject of many poems and recipients of gratitude in
acceptance speeches all over the world; it can be a detriment to our health and
happiness. You end up neglecting your own goals like reading that novel;
writing your own novel; working out; going back to school; getting your hair
done; running a marathon or climbing Mt. Everest. Big or small, they’re your
goals and important to you. Even if it is as simple as going out for coffee with
a friend without the children along for the ride; it is essential that you take
some time for yourself to do the things that may be important only to you.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It helps to take the edge off and helps you to go back to
being the ‘Super Mom’ that your family needs you to be.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well, that and a glass (maybe a bottle) of wine.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m just sayin…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Joya is a married mother of 2. Aside from her family, her
passions are writing and shopping. She blogs about motherhood at <a href="http://supermomdoesntlivehere.wordpress.com/">http://supermomdoesntlivehere.wordpress.com</a><span class="MsoHyperlink">. </span><span class="MsoHyperlink"> She has also just started a gift basket
business called LIFE HAPPENS GIFT BAGS & BASKETS; where her goal is to help
people celebrate even the smallest occasions. You can check out her Facebook
page at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/lifehappensbagsbaskets">www.facebook.com/lifehappensbagsbaskets</a>
.</span><span style="color: #0563c1; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Joya Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11523450161654857545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-30828521111879996242014-05-14T23:42:00.001-04:002014-05-15T09:21:34.062-04:00This Mama's Back In SchoolHi Mamas. I really have to do a better job updating this blog. Mamalicious Mamas is still going strong, but with being back to work and family time it is sometimes difficult to maintain that ooomph. I have some great Mamas assisting me, but my communication skills have been lacking a bit. (Sorry Mama Jen and Melanie).<br />
<br />
Enough beating myself up. This blog also discusses the "behind the scenes"... so let's go there for a bit.<br />
<br />
Announcement! I am working on obtaining my Social Media Certificate! (Yea Me!).<br />
<br />
I am using this post for my first assignment: The Digital Book Report.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We are required to choose a social media book of our choice for this course. I have chosen <b>Social Media Mastery by Tara Ross PHD. This reading offers "75 daily challenges to help your reach, build your platform and establish your online authority</b>".<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U1rY5JBKJzI/U3S-1Ko5DuI/AAAAAAAAFSc/x0mcQx4I30M/s1600/518KxMORvpL._SY400_.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U1rY5JBKJzI/U3S-1Ko5DuI/AAAAAAAAFSc/x0mcQx4I30M/s1600/518KxMORvpL._SY400_.jpeg" height="320" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Here is my book review via video where I share information about book and the value I have gained from reading it and the challenges offered. And by the way, it is my first video EVER. Pardon my nervousness.... But I feel good about the end result.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://i1.ytimg.com/s_vi/tosO8iOuKGs/default.jpg?sqp=CODk0JsF&rs=AOn4CLBExzxcAhMSS7DHqK6zXPy5BvqHPQ" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="https://www.youtube.com/v/tosO8iOuKGs?version=3&f=user_uploads&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/v/tosO8iOuKGs?version=3&f=user_uploads&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<span id="goog_2076883778"></span><span id="goog_2076883779"></span><br />
<span id="goog_1881377076"></span><span id="goog_1881377077"></span>Here is my tag cloud that I created on www.wordle.net. These words refer to what I learned and the value gained.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ua1c8QjqkNM/U3LRKAP0_eI/AAAAAAAAFRE/IQAHNOC55js/s1600/wordle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ua1c8QjqkNM/U3LRKAP0_eI/AAAAAAAAFRE/IQAHNOC55js/s1600/wordle.png" height="328" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You can catch some of the quotes that stood out for me in the book on twitter. You can find them using #GB2014</div>
<br />
<b><i>So Mamas... Are any of you currently going to school or upgrading your skills? What are you taking?</i></b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-39875872596186713572014-04-26T09:26:00.000-04:002014-04-26T09:26:39.269-04:00I'm Not Perfect...I'm a Mom!<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had no idea what
type of mom I would be, but I did assume that patience would be one of my
strongest assets since I’ve always been a fairly patient, low-key person.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ha!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Becoming a mother not
only exposed me to the most powerful and enduring love I will ever experience
in my lifetime…but it also made me feel inadequate, inexperienced, insecure and
at times, like a total nut job!!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Seriously!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How the heck was I
going to do this mom thing? Which hospital staff in their right mind would send
a baby home with me? I had absolutely no idea what I was doing!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I felt completely alone
and at a loss sometimes. Even though I had so much love and support around me; I
felt as if I should know everything and <i>be
able to do everything </i>on my own…and do it well.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But no matter how much
of a ‘super mom’ you are or strive to be (and I just happened to leave my super
hero cape at the cleaners…), you are not perfect and you <i>will</i> make mistakes. Here’s the crazy part…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s okay!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You don’t have to be
perfect!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, you might burn the
dinner one night because you were busy tending to a ‘boo-boo’ or trying to stop
your kids from strangling each other. Just call it a BBQ and enjoy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You might forget that
today is PYJAMA DAY at the daycare and have to spend the next 10 minutes
consoling a very distraught toddler while still trying to make it to work
before lunchtime! You were on time yesterday…<i>almost</i>!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You could be sewing a
costume at 11pm because you forgot that your child’s first play is tomorrow!!!
Sleep is overrated anyway.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There may even come a
time when you break down into a sobbing mass of frustration at the tantrum your
preschooler just had in the middle of the grocery store…sigh.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let’s face it…you may
have more than one of those break downs. But Mommy’s have tantrums too, you
know. (Please tell me that’s <i>not</i> just
me?!)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Between caring for our
kids, our partners and possibly our parents; we will get some things wrong.
We’ll get tired, fed up, frustrated and grumpy. Did I mention emotional?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That’s called Motherhood!<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am learning that my
kids accept me with all of my imperfections. I've learned to acknowledge my
mistakes. Mind you, my girls are kind enough to point them out to me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Over and over and
over….<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s nothing like a
3 year old telling you that you have a ‘really, really bad memory’ or your 7
year old that rolls her eyes because you can’t remember where you left your
keys. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But I do remember to
tend to the scrapes and bruises; hug away the tears and nightmares; soothe hurt
feelings and celebrate all of their accomplishments and at the end of the day,
when my kids are happy to see me; when I get hugs and kisses and ‘I love you
Mommy’, I know that I’m doing something right.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So when you’re having
a rough day and things may not be going well; stop trying to be perfect and
give yourself a break.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
You’re better than
perfect…YOU’RE A MOM.<o:p></o:p></div>
Joya Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11523450161654857545noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-46005930372944648012014-04-23T12:05:00.000-04:002014-04-23T12:05:17.931-04:00Wordless Wednesday<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8V1aHGfgVg/U1fkAWrVT5I/AAAAAAAAFF0/wpn8Kx8uXgE/s1600/IMG-20140417-WA0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8V1aHGfgVg/U1fkAWrVT5I/AAAAAAAAFF0/wpn8Kx8uXgE/s1600/IMG-20140417-WA0003.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Love this pic of Missy Miu during our Jamaican vacation. </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-81249848404662674572014-04-21T22:38:00.001-04:002014-04-21T22:39:28.476-04:00Joya... Our New Blog Contributor<em>I am super excited to add Joya to our Mamalicious Blog Team. Here is her bio:</em><br />
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YrPZFSoJQAQ/U1XUjtMVX9I/AAAAAAAAFBY/Nxo3VVhtrvc/s1600/joya.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YrPZFSoJQAQ/U1XUjtMVX9I/AAAAAAAAFBY/Nxo3VVhtrvc/s1600/joya.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am the mother of 2 gorgeous, smart and rambunctious girls.
One soon to be 7 year old that is more like a teenager than you could imagine.
In other words…Drama! But so affectionate too. Then there is my 3 ½ year old
who is the baby, the princess, the comedian and the trickster…and that’s all in
one day! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m a working mom still searching for the manual on
motherhood (can I borrow someone’s copy?). Each day is a test, challenge or
triumph on how to keep it all together and still be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">‘mamalicious’</i> (Ha! Like how I worked that in there?). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am also a writer and a blogger.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can visit my blog
at </span><a href="http://supermomdoesntlivehere.wordpress.com/"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri;"><strong>http://supermomdoesntlivehere.wordpress.com</strong></span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">.
Feel free to drop by and leave a comment!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My blog is where I am able to share all the anecdotes of my
life as the very imperfect mom of two perfectly awesome (did I say rambunctious
already?) kids!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">But if that’s not enough on my plate, I’m also starting a
new business called “Life Happens Gift Bags and Baskets” (website coming
soon!).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Am I crazy?” you might ask…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Of course I am! Isn’t being a bit crazy a prerequisite for
motherhood?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Wait…is that just <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">me</i>?</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-11187274640597817742014-04-19T00:56:00.000-04:002014-04-19T00:56:02.647-04:00Maybe One Is Enough<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PLyTUqOWk5A/U1HkJrpwhII/AAAAAAAAE7E/cQTzVx75N0Y/s1600/gg64859961.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PLyTUqOWk5A/U1HkJrpwhII/AAAAAAAAE7E/cQTzVx75N0Y/s1600/gg64859961.jpeg" /></a></div>
Recently Cee and I came to a difficult decision. To stop at one child. <br />
<br />
Why would I consider this a difficult choice? Well, because society tells us otherwise. Apparently:<br />
<br />
<strong>-Missy Miu HAS to have a sibling or two. She'll be lonely...</strong> <br />
... She attends daycare everyday with 9 other classmates Monday to Friday. When I pick her up after work her I observe her from afar before I let her know I've arrived. I see her colouring at a table with the other children or I watch her acting out songs with her teachers. When she does find out I have arrived I get the biggest hug and sloppiest of kisses and she shows off her use of toys in the room. <br />
<br />
Now that the weather is nicer, I park the car in the driveway after the pick up and Missy Miu and I walk on the sidewalk to catch Dad driving by. He joins us, we maneuver the cracks on the sidewalks and catch up on the day.<br />
<br />
Nope... not too lonely at all.<br />
<br />
<strong>-She needs family when we "move on"</strong><br />
Hmmm... hope I don't offend any family members who may be reading this. I have four siblings and let's just say we are not beating down each other's door as often as we "should". So I think I will focus on fulfilling her life <em>NOW</em> and teach her the value of friendship so she can learn to build lasting relationships.<br />
<strong></strong><br />
<strong>-One is an adjustment, two is a piece of cake</strong><br />
Yeah... maybe... but sometimes it's a huge adjustment when you are near middle age and you are struggling to prepare for retirement, pay off that mortgage and build your little one's RESPs.<br />
<br />
Honestly I would like for us to be able to be fiscally responsible and comfortably provide for her. It is my worst nightmare to have issues doing so. And to work past 65 because I have to and not because I want to? ( insert picture of me gasping for air here...)<br />
<br />
Before I hit submit on this post I feel I should be honest... It took 3 weeks to decide to publish my thoughts on more children. Today <em>I think</em> I would like another, and I wonder how, when, if I should even present this to my hubby. Next week I may feel differently again. But I thought it was important to say... It's ultimately up to you.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-79413540185670773792014-01-10T22:38:00.000-05:002014-01-11T19:01:06.981-05:00WIN! Lil Tights By Skights!<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
The wonderful thing I love about being a Mamalicious Mama is the unique items I get to review for our group. Our mamas are based in Scarborough and Pickering, so you can imagine how happy I was to find product created by a Mama in the Durham Region. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P1EanVbU9Xo/UtC23Zvw3RI/AAAAAAAAD3I/LMSMTd8rbtA/s1600/g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_549897="null" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P1EanVbU9Xo/UtC23Zvw3RI/AAAAAAAAD3I/LMSMTd8rbtA/s1600/g.jpg" height="306" hua="true" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Canadian Mom and designer Julie Thompson has created "Lil' Tights by SKIGHTS". They are like tights... But better than tights. I like to refer to them knee high tights. <br />
<br />
It would have been awesome if I had them when Missy Miu was a crawler. I love the padded knee feature that would have protected her knees as she crawled on the floor and carpet. <br />
<br />
When we are home I want her to feel unrestricted, but to remove her leggings would have her feeling chilly. With Skights that it a non issue. <br />
<br />
Oh... And Diaper changes are much easier. No hassle of removing her pants. Just the diaper.... Just the diaper. <br />
<br />
With Toronto 's latest cold Snap, these sure came in handy beneath her pants. <br />
<br />
Lil' Tights have a stay put design so they are not easily removed by your little one. <br />
And may I add... Potty training will be much easier. <br />
<br />
Skights are made of stretchy Lycra and Spandex (75% Cotton, 22% Nylon, 3% Lycra). They come in three colours:<br />
- small - 9 to 18 months <br />
- med -18 to 30 months <br />
- lg - 30 to 48 months<br />
<br />
You can purchase Skights <a href="http://skights.com/order/">online</a> for $14.99. Purchase 3 or more pairs and save 10%.<br />
<br />
What is even more awesome is that this week Julie's Skights are heading to Hollywood to exhibit at L.A.'s exclusive, invitation-only Boom Boom Room Pre-Golden Globes gifting suite. This is where baby and kids' gear is showcased for celebrity moms and dads!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-udi-UpTbngE/UtC7_Mai8eI/AAAAAAAAD3c/Hi_uiVXHAao/s1600/SKIGHTS_171012_0034%252520cr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_549897="null" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-udi-UpTbngE/UtC7_Mai8eI/AAAAAAAAD3c/Hi_uiVXHAao/s1600/SKIGHTS_171012_0034%252520cr.jpg" height="320" hua="true" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
Great news though... Thanks to Skights we have an <b><i>exclusive contest</i></b> for the <b><a href="http://www.meetup.com/Scarborough-Pickering-Mamalicious-Mamas/events/159934952/">Mamalicious Mamas</a></b>.</div>
<br />
1. Visit Skights <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TightsbySkights">Facebook page</a> and LIKE it. <br />
2. Click on this <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TightsbySkights#!/photo.php?fbid=395714393882546&set=a.280251422095511.67864.272176959569624&type=1&theater">LINK and comment</a> on the pic what you love about Skights <br />
3. RSVP on the <a href="http://www.meetup.com/Scarborough-Pickering-Mamalicious-Mamas/events/159934952/">event board</a> after completing steps 1 and 2. <br />
<br />
You have until Thursday, January 16, 2014, 3pm to compete for the a pair of Skights. Remember... to be eligible you must follow instructions to a <b><i>T</i></b>. <br />
<br />
<b><i>Good luck Mamas! </i></b>
<br/><br/>
**The products for this review and giveaway were provided for free. All opinions are my own and were not influenced in any way.**Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-770499487187711112014-01-06T00:00:00.000-05:002014-01-06T00:18:56.784-05:00Debt Free - Like Really <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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I have been really serious about becoming debt free.... For like the last 20 years. <br />
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Made you laugh. Right? <br />
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But seriously. Now that I have a daughter I so have to get my act together. I lose sleep thinking that she may have to go without as she grows up. I remember how my Mom "struggled" make ends meet. I would like Missy Miu to see me "budget" to make ends meet. <br />
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In order to become debt free I have to have a plan. So I have decided on the following route.<br />
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<b>1. SNOWBALLING</b> - From most to least expensive interest rate I am listing my consumer debt with the amount of months left. Here's an example... err... Not mine:<br />
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1. Furniture Store 32 % 6000 84<br />
2. Dept. Store Card 28.8% 600 22<br />
3. Dept. Store Card 28.8% 1100 48<br />
4. Car Loan 9 % 25000 600<br />
5. Family 0 % 2800 0<br />
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This list allows one to list their most expensive debt (using the interest rate). Pay the minimum payment required on bills 2, 3 etc. On the first bill you throw more than the minimum amount. Every time you move down the list you snowball. The payment used to pay off the most expensive debt will be applied to the next most expensive debt on the list.<br />
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<b>2. Start Now</b> Procrastination is not helping to pay down my debt. How is it working for you?<br />
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<b>3. Make a Budget and get it to balance. </b><br />
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<b>4. Trim Down </b>Where can you cut spending. Does it mean bringing your lunch 3 days of the week instead of buying for 5 days? Maybe that's an extra $65 month. Take the $65 and apply it to the first loan on the top of the list. <br />
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<b>5. Make A Payment </b>No need to wait for the due date. If money is owing... It's always owing. Each time you apply a payment, you reduce the interest added on. <br />
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<b>6. Empty The Pockets</b><br />
Got change in your pocket? Under the couch cushions? I collect loose coin in a jar and stash it way in the back of my closet. Every couple of months I count up the money and apply it to debt. You'll be surprised to see how much money this can add up to. <br />
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Next week we will discuss making a budget. In the meantime I ask that with me you create your snowball list and make a payment. <br />
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Until next week Financial Mamas!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-63245231369009933532014-01-01T03:00:00.000-05:002014-01-01T01:36:43.753-05:00New Year... New Events<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy New Year Mamas! Just wanted to give a heads up on January 2014 events:<br />
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- We have coffee at <b><a href="http://debbiescafe.ca/">Debbie's Boutique Café</a></b> and <b><a href="http://cafe-mirage.com/">Café Mirage</a></b><br />
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- We will have two Storytime sessions at <b><a href="http://rayscafe.ca/">Ray's Café</a></b> <br />
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- Stroller Walking at <b><a href="http://www.scarboroughtowncentre.com/">Scarborough Town Centre</a></b> and <b><a href="http://www.markville.ca/en/Pages/default.aspx">Markville Mall</a></b><br />
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- Hat Day at <b><a href="http://www.creativeplay.ca/PicturesPickering.html">Creative Play Indoor Playground</a></b> <br />
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We have room for 5 more events. Let us know if you have and suggestions. <br />
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We've just added Stroller Walking at the indoor track at <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stephen-Leacock-Community-Recreation-Centre/296863247027289">Stephen Leacock Community Centre</a> </b><br />
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Please visit our <b><a href="http://www.meetup.com/Scarborough-Pickering-Mamalicious-Mamas">Mamalicious Mamas board</a></b> for more information.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-56032636827351218802013-12-30T13:06:00.002-05:002013-12-30T13:06:13.121-05:00Introducing The Financial Mama Series<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Before going on maternity leave we made some attempts to save for the income we would soon be missing. We definitely could have done a better job. We had to live very tight during my time from work... Sometimes uncomfortably so.<br />
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I am back to work now and have many "what could have been done differently" thoughts. I want to be financially secure, provide for our daughter, go on a vacation once a year.... And oh yeah.... Retirement is not to far away.<br />
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On Mondays we will be posting the "Financial Mama Series". I will share with you what I'm doing to get my financial house in order. I would love for you to follow... Maybe we can all do this together. I would love to hear about what you are doing in terms of money in your household. Any tips or suggestions? Please share.<br />
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<b>So before I enter 2014, let me introduce you to my first challenge:</b><br />
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Can you track how you normally spend your money? In some aspects this may be a piece of cake for me. I have a spreadsheet that states unequivocally where my money goes in terms of my fixed expenses.<br />
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<b>Fixed Expenses: </b>The bills that are paid out at the same time and are a fixed amount. ie: rent, car payment, daycare<br />
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I also have listed my variable expenses.<br />
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<b>Variable Expenses: </b>Money that is spent on any particular day and at any total. ie: groceries, vehicle gas, hair appointments<br />
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I do an OK job at tracking my variable expenses. I have a cute pink notebook (and it is cute) in my bag. Flip through and you will see a section of vehicle gas. My budget is $240 per month. Whenever I fill up I subtract what I spent and am aware of how much money I have left. Same for my $75 clothing budget and $400 grocery budget.<br />
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I get in trouble with the variable category I call "Miscellaneous". Why am I calling this miscellaneous anyway? This is the money that goes to STUFF. Could be coffee... a movie... a blouse.... Wait! !<br />
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<b><i>I HAVE A CLOTHING BUDGET!!</i></b><br />
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See what I mean? You will probably find that you have a hard time finding out what happened within your variable category. <br />
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Like me, you may think this first task is a difficult one. (why am I envisioning Jack Nicholson yelling that I can't handle the truth?) This task is just to give you a visual heads up about where your money is going. Easy peasy.<br />
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It is usually advised that you look over 6 months of expenses. I am using two as I have been collecting a full paycheque during this time.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-52935314036440390792013-12-29T18:06:00.002-05:002013-12-29T21:34:27.344-05:00A Mamalicious Year In Review<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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A year ago Missy Miu was 4 months old and I was one lonely Mama. I knew there were groups of Moms who were getting out and keeping each other company. I was experiencing so much despair that the thought of being sociable would paralyze me. Many of the Mom outings were a bit of a commute. Going to work entails a 52 km drive one way. The long trips to mingle with the baby became another excuse not to get out. <br />
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I soon realized that at this point maternity leave was going to be sad experience. The only way to get around this was to create my own group. I mean surely I would be a social butterfly if it was my group. If I planned events in my area then the excuse of a long commute would be removed. <br />
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Thanks to Meetup.com I was able to get some great ideas and form a mommy group <a href="http://www.meetup.com/Scarborough-Pickering-Mamalicious-Mamas"><b>Scarborough Pickering Mamalicious Mamas</b></a>. Almost a year later we have over 200 Mamas. Many going through the same predicament of loneliness. <br />
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We are all excited about being a parent, but were not really forewarned that sometimes it would be difficult to find other children for our little ones to mingle with, peer support and things to do. It's pretty exciting to know that we had Mamas participate in almost 200 events. I would like to thank the volunteer Mama's who host many of our outings.<br />
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Our group has evolved. We have new Mamas and Back to work Mamas. We are listening. Even though Moms are returning to work they still want to keep in touch with each other. They had lots of baby questions and they have now turned to toddler questions. <br />
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I'm excited about out first Weekend Mama event taking place next month on a Saturday. Any member can attend however it is a great opportunity for back to work Mamas to catch up with each other and for their toddlers to mingle. <br />
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We have accomplished a lot with the Mamalicious Mamas and would like to continue. We have some great ideas and are looking forward to working with businesses in the community. <br />
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I am back to work, juggling family life but excited about upcoming developments for the Mamalicious Mamas.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-7068099709908760022013-12-16T04:18:00.000-05:002013-12-16T20:39:42.631-05:00Contest: The Go Anywhere Booster Seat Now that we have a child getting ready to head out can be quite an experience. Now when we pack a few essentials, it looks like we are going on a major excursion. We have a mobile high chair which can be a bit of a hassle to carry. This would be why I'm very excited to blog about the <b>Go Anywhere Booster Seat </b>by <b><a href="http://www.aparentcompany.net/">A Parent Company</a></b>.<br />
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On a trip to England Phil and Vanessa Carrington they came across the Go Anywhere Booster Seat; a product not offered anywhere in North America. They became the exclusive distributors for the North American market and it is now available here through their business, A Parent Company.</div>
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When folded away, it has the look of a stylish messenger bag with a handle and shoulder strap. I love the fact that it is very light to carry. In fact it weighs 1.5 lbs.<br />
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The Go Anywhere Booster Seat has three sets of adjustable straps that secures to a chair. It is a quick and easy setup which is a major highlight for me.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Missy Miu is so actitive, but I am able to secure her in with ease</td></tr>
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Other selling points:<br />
- It's a wipe clean seat<br />
- BPA & Phthalate free<br />
- It's stylish and hip<br />
- great for traveling and everyday use<br />
- Boasts a 5 point restraint harness <br />
- Ideal for children who are able to sit unassisted up to 40 lbs<br />
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I am so excited that our <b><a href="http://www.meetup.com/Scarborough-Pickering-Mamalicious-Mamas">Mamalicious Mamas</a></b> are eligible to win a Go Anywhere Booster Seat. It will be posted on our event board on Dec 16th, 2013. All they have to do is visit A Parent Company's Facebook Page, Like it and make a comment on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Parent-Company/285018844888457#!/photo.php?fbid=626011540789184&set=a.350069141716760.77559.285018844888457&type=1&theater"><b>selected photo with chair</b></a> why they would like to win one. </div>
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<i>**The products for this review and giveaway were provided for free. All opinions are my own and were not influenced in any way.**</i><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-45019228492070191102013-12-03T09:00:00.000-05:002013-12-03T12:21:36.934-05:00Cookie Exchange Event <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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We will be at <a href="http://www.creativeplay.ca/" target="_blank">Creative Play Indoor Playground</a> for our Cookie Exchange. <br />
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While our little ones play we will get into the Holiday Season exchanging small tins of cookies.<br />
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You may bake em', buy em, then savour em. (nut free food is allowed on premises).<br />
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It will be a great opportunity to share secret recipes or the favourite secret spot you bought them.<br />
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Please RSVP by Monday, December 2nd. We will contact each Mama with her picked Mama name on Tuesday, December 3rd.<br />
Shhhh.... It's a secret....<br />
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http://www.meetup.com/Scarborough-Pickering-Mamalicious-Mamas/events/152394092/<br />
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Mama Melanie will be your host for this event.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-2241982338309293092013-11-24T12:02:00.000-05:002013-12-03T12:03:34.144-05:00Our Holiday Diaper Drive Event <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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Hi Friends, we are excited to announce our First Mamalicious Mamas Holiday Diaper Drive.All Diapers collected will be donated to the Pregnancy Help Center of Durham (Ajax Location) located at 572 Kingston Rd., W., Pickering Village. <a href="http://www.pregnancyhelp.ca/">www.pregnancyhelp.ca</a>.<br />
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Diaper need is the struggle to provide babies and small children with clean diapers. Diaper need is defined as having to cut back on essentials, like food, utilities, medicine and child care in order to afford enough diapers for one’s children.<br />
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Did you know:<br />
- 3 in 10 Canadian Mamas know a Mom who cannot afford disposable diapers<br />
- Daycare facilities typically do not allow cloth diapers<br />
- Many public laundry facilities cloth diapers to be washed in their machines for sanitary reasons<br />
- In households experiencing diaper need, babies may be kept in wet, dirty diapers for extended periods of time- Mothers cut back on basic essentials, like food, utilities or child care in order to afford enough diapers for their child<br />
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We will be accepting new packages and opened packages of Disposable Diapers. These can be dropped off at <a href="http://treehouseplayandcafe.com/" target="_blank">Treehouse Play and Café</a>.<br />
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All sizes are appreciated however there is a need for sizes NB, 5 and 6.<br />
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How else can you help?<br />
-Spread the word.... Let your contacts know via Twitter, Facebook (and groups), and other forms of social media.<br />
- Let family and friends know verbally, text or email..<br />
- Deliver your friends donations to the drop off site.<br />
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This event starts Sunday, November 24th - Sunday, December 22, 2013. We have an alternate time and drop off site for Sundays which will be announced soon.Need more info? Please contact us in the comments area. <br />
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Thank you.<span id="goog_2041271353"></span><span id="goog_2041271354"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8472627716123954699.post-8133294744020245272013-10-18T00:04:00.000-04:002013-12-08T00:10:33.071-05:00Going To The Zoo, Zoo, Zoo <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
Mamalicious Mamas had an awesome time at the Zoo! Zoo! Zoo! It was a nice sunny day. <br />
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We enjoyed a pleasant walk and of course the animals too. Thanks to Mama Melanie for being our host for this event.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13413810099734700436noreply@blogger.com0