The Big Vacation

On an island far, far away Mama and the family had an amazing vacation where we did absolutely nothing but swim, eat, play and unplug for nine days. It was amazing and Mama thinks it quite possibly could be the best vacation for your family too! Mama's family is definitely island vacationers. We love the beach and the water. Which is odd considering we live at the beach and the water...However, the islands tend to have tepid, salty bathwater that you can actually swim and float in versus the cold Pacific back at home. Whether you live on the East Coast, West Coast, the South, the MidWest or Canada -- The Beaches Resort on Turks and Caicos is the place for you.


A destination for families with kids of all ages there is so much to do, that you absolutely won't know what to do first. Mama had never been to an all inclusive before and didn't quite know what to expect. It was beyond Mama's expectations and more...here's why (you know...one of my famous lists)!

Sesame Street -- if you have kids ages 0 to 6, chances are they know Sesame Street and wouldn't mind hanging out with Elmo and the gang 24-7. The kids camp is amazing and takes kids from 6 months and up and keeps them so B-U-S-Y that they don't quite know what's happening until it's time for dinner. In fact, you can keep them there for dinner and eat just the adults -- imagine a night of no temper tantrums because the mac and cheese has a string bean in it. If you don't like Sesame Street characters, you can avoid that whole scene but really, it's all fun as they do nightly stage shows that even get the oldest members of your family smiling and toe-tapping! Lily-girl and Baby Boy did a fashion show, baked cookies with Cookie Monster, danced with Zoe and made music with Elmo. It was F-U-N!


The food (and drinks)-- it was good! Warning: do not go on this vacation and be on a diet. The food was excellent and plentiful and available anytime you want it. We had sushi that was probably better than most of the places in San Diego and we went to a Benihana style restaurant (sans kids!) that was so entertaining and good. Mama fell in love with the Parisian dessert and coffee bar -- you could have anything you wanted iced or hot!! With 16 different style restaurants to choose from you never had to eat the same place twice and there was no wait -- EVER! Oh, and my husband liked the fully stocked bar in your room and if you finished it (which he didn't...) they would replenish it.

The pools -- there are four different large pools on the property and a waterpark that suits adults to toddlers. The splash areas are plentiful so even Baby Boy could run free without Mama having to worry about him falling in. We would hop around to the different areas but we would always end-up at the waterpark and lazy river to end the day. One of the best parts for Mama is that you could always find a chair and shade. We've been to places (ahem...Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas) where if you weren't by the pool by 7 a.m. -- you weren't getting a seat or SHADE. Not the case here at all!


Unplugged -- yes, you heard Mama right - we did unplug. It was hard and okay, Mama admits...did check e-mails once each morning...but the cell service and Internet was so spotty it took forever so it wasn't worth the time. It was nice to reconnect and talk to each other instead of the computer or via text like we do at home. Sad that we need a vacation to unplug but to save your marriage -- Mama highly suggests doing it once a year.


The Service -- if you love being pampered, this is the place for you. Whether you stay in the cheapest room or the most expensive -- you get treated the same and it's fabulous. They are the nicest and friendliest staff and your wish is there command. It's nice to be on a vacation and really feel like you deserve it.


Right now RueLaLa.com, one of Mama's favorite sample sale sites (more on these coming in soon) is having an amazing deal on stays at The Beaches Resorts in Turks and Caicos and Jamaica. Even if you don't book the vacation at least you can be in the know on upcoming sales!


Have I convinced you to go yet? If so, Mama will see you there next July!

The Big Vacation

Happy 1st Blogiversary Mama!

Time sure flies! Mama was thinking the other day how this whole thing got started...Mama's site, the whole TV thing, then people started asking me to write for other sites like, StyleBakeryMom, and the list goes on and on...Mama is definitely not complaining. Quite the opposite, Mama loves it! 


In fact, Mama has been so busy that we forgot to celebrate Mama's 1st Blogiversary -- it was July 22! Can you believe it? One year has flown by and Mama is still here. To celebrate Mama would love to hear from you on what you think Mama's best post has been. Then after you comment below telling Mama "Happy 1st Blogiversary," let's celebrate with some cake...shall we?!

"Ms. Martha Stewart...if you're out there...it's me, Mama! For my 1st Blogiversary, Mama would like your really cool new Cricut Cake with Cartridges that just came out. Mama promises to blog forever and ever and be a really good crafter. Okay, thanks."


Mama doubts Martha is listening to her (kind of like Santa never listens) but if she did, this awesome tool makes the most amazing edible little designs that can decorate cakes, cupcakes and cookies. L-O-V-E it as it dresses up Mama's plain cakes.

Pretty plate -- so now that Martha is going to gift me this lovely little cake cutting machine, Mama needs a pretty plate to place it on. Adoring these Parisian looking ones with the glass dome -- so pretty and keeps the kiddos from poking their fingers in Mama's beautiful creations. Available at Mama's Shop, $42.


Pie by mail -- Mama is gearing up for her first blog conference next week in NYC and is definitely looking forward to visiting one her favorite restaurants, Bubby's! Y-U-M!!! If you can't make it to the Big Apple, you can now order one of their famous Sour Cherry or Triple Berry Pies by mail from Williams-Sonoma.com, $54. It's worth every cent and then some. 

Bake me a cake -- who is Mama kidding...Martha nor Bubby's is listening to Mama. But just maybe Mama's husband will read this and feel pity on me for missing this important milestone and run into the kitchen wearing a Flirty Apron and whip up this delicious Caramel Cake from Paula Deen. Not only does it have 2 sticks of artery-clogging butter, but it also was the center of the most recent book Mama read -- The Help -- and the craving has yet to be satisfied.


So now it's on to year 2 for Mama but not before we eat! As Marie Antoinette once said, "Let them eat cake!" 

Happy 1st Blogiversary Mama!

Chalk it up!

Seriously if Mama doesn't write it down these days, chances are...it's not going to be remembered. If there was a way to just write all over the walls just what pops into Mama's head right then, Mama would do it. However the husband would not enjoy that philosophy. With so many thoughts swimming around, paper is not always handy but what if there is another way to write down these important to-dos...What do you think about chalk? Messy?  No definitely not messy...Mama likes to think chalk is brilliant! 


Here's five reasons why you should add chalk to your life...


Chalk Dreams -- okay, there is no denying it...these Chalk Pillows are too cute! Leave a sweet note for your child or keep it on your bed to write down your dreams so you can interpret them later. Available at uncommongoods.com, $48.


Chalk Talk -- no better place to write with chalk then a chalkboard! Mama loves this stylish Zinc Board that has more personality then just a plain square board. Put it in the kitchen for quick reminders and to jot down grocery store lists. Available at Mama's Shop, $28.

Chalk Notes -- if you're not ready to invest in painting a whole wall of chalkboard paint, consider these removeable Chalkboard Wallies. You can make a whole calendar week on one wall or split them up among different areas of the house. Perfect for a quick fix -- no nails required! Available at paper-source.com, $19.95 for a 4-pack.


Chalk Pictures -- have you ever looked at a photo that you have in a frame and you can't remember how old the kids are or where you were at? Mama adores this Chalkboard Picture Frame. It makes a great gift or livens up any boring desk decor. Available at paper-source.com, $29.95.


Chalk Walls -- go ahead and paint a square or two of chalkboard paint on the inside of a cupboard or on the closet doors. With more than just black available (25 colors in total!), you can create a truly unique chalk wall that is all your own. Make a heart, make an exclamation point...you get the picture. For more DIY ideas, Mama says go BIG and paint chalkboard paint on tables, dressers, frames...pretty much anything! Available at HudsonPaint.com, $24.99 a quart.


Now tell Mama, what's your favorite way to chalk?

Chalk it up!

Mama's kiddie decor

It's long been a dream of Mama's to wake-up in fabulously decorated house. You know the kind that when you walk in all you can think is, "WOW! Who lives in this museum?" Then "BUZZZ" the alarm wakes Mama up into reality of my ho-hum decorated humble abode filled with mountains of toys, books, magazines, paperwork and other random items strewn about. After kids, Mama gave up on decorating -- well, in the museum kind-of-way. Now, Mama embraces the kid-friendly decor that is not only comfortable but functional. You don't have to worry about items getting broken, colored or shredded if it's durable, right?!


Decorate with Mama today the kid-friendly way with these fantastic and affordable finds. Oh and to help you start your holiday shopping early (after all it's Christmas in July all week!), Mama's Shop is offering you TWO discounts! Add JulyFreeShip in the coupon code box upon checkout and receive free shipping on products through July 31st. OR add the coupon code July20pct and receive 20 percent off items through July 31st (offers cannot be combined...sorry!). Mama has some great new items in store and is adding inventory daily so keep checking back :)


Eat Alfresco -- kids love eating outside in the summer (or anytime of year for that matter!). Make it a picnic outside with these fun Thomas Paul Sea Life-themed plates. If you don't live at the beach, the plates will make you seem like your eating seaside. If you do live at the beach like Mama, then they will fit perfectly in your house! Available at Mama's Shop, $40.


Recycled Seating -- pull up a pouf and have a seat...a recycled seat that is! Not only is this a fantastic seat for the living room, playroom or bedroom, it's also a great learning project. Pick your favorite pouf color and order from Mama's Shop, $130. Your pouf is shipped flat and it's up to you and the kids to fill-up the pouf with recyclable materials like newspaper, magazines, paper and plastic grocery bags, etc. Shape however you like and enjoy your new kid-friendly (and adult!) seating. 

Candy Shop -- Mama actually saw these old-fashioned penny candy jars in one of those museum house recently and started the search for them. Not only are they decorative but completely functional not only housing your family's favorite candy treats but can store craft items like stickers and ribbon or even pasta. Great for holiday time and storing all those extra candy canes! Available at Mama's Shop, $17.

Tall Fruitcakes -- whether you went shopping for the perfect peaches at the Farmer's Market yesterday or slaved all night to bake a delicious cake for your in-laws that are coming to dinner, both deserved to be displayed on something tall and pretty. Mama loves the White Footed Bowls and Cake Stands from Rosanna, Inc.! They are detailed without being overly ostentatious, $35 and up at Mama's Shop.


Safety first -- it doesn't matter if your house is kid-friendly or a museum, it needs to be baby-proofed from roof to floor, inside and out. Nothing is uglier than those hideous white safety locks that you put on the cupboards. Mama loves the new designs from Rhoost that are sleek, modern childproofing locks that edge tables and sling knobs. The Bundle Starter Kit is available at Mama's Shop in black or brown, $25 for an pack of 4 edge and 4 slings (8 total).


What's your best kid-friendly decorating tip? However, every now and then the all white living room Mama saw in Coastal Living keeps popping up -- maybe when we're empty nesters! 

Mama's kiddie decor

Bike built for two!

There's nothing like going on a nice bike ride to the beach. Although, it's quite a different experience when you have young kids in tow -- that don't peddle! Mama saw a whole family cruising to the beach the other day and Lily-girl could not stop talking about our next bike ride. Of course our rides consist of around the block to the park because training wheels only get you so far.

Then Mama saw this machine...what a beauty! The little girl was riding in back and Mama was in the front. It's a Schwinn Tango Tandem Bike, $650 (not cheap!).


However, how is Baby Boy going to go with us? And since Lily-girl is still on training wheels, can she really pedal this puppy? Not a chance! Mama did find some good alternatives however and the cutest bike helmets around.


Seat with a view -- Mama is loves the WeeRide LTD Kangaroo Child Bike Seat because it attaches to the front of your bike rather than the back. This way you can see your child and make sure they aren't falling out or unbuckling their straps. They will also love looking out rather than looking at your back. Baby Boy gives it two thumbs up! Available at amazon.com, $70.


Hitchhiker -- this is much more up Lily-girl's alley for bike-riding -- a Hitch Hiker Trailer that fits on the back of Mama's bike. The parent controls the steering, pedaling and braking make it easy for young ones to come along for the ride. Great for interim bike riding between riding on their own and training wheels. Available at amazon.com, $139.99.


Trailer tail -- if you have more than two kids to take along that aren't able to ride along side you, try a bike trailer built for one or two. It attaches to the back of the bike for a smooth, easy ride. Available at amazon.com, $75 for the double-wide!


Even if your little one is in a trailer, always suit them up in a helmet for safety! Mama adores the Nutcase Little Nutty Bike Helmets -- the designs are so fun and the kids will love wearing them. Available at REI.com, $45.

Bike built for two!

Mama's Itsy Etsy

Remember a couple of weeks ago Mama told you it was the baby boom of 2010?! Well it continues. Now Mama is scrambling to put together my signature Mama Baskets filled with Mama, Lily-girl and Baby Boy's favorite baby items. Although, it is nice to throw in a few never-before-seen items that are sure to "WOW" the baby shower crowd that "ooohhs" and "aahhs" anything that comes out of the shiny, wrapped box that Mama-to-be opens. And sometimes another box of diapers doesn't deserve an "aahh!"


Mama turned to her Etsy.com to find the cutest and most deserving baby gifts for all of those "ooohhs!"


Forget Sophie -- the most popular teething giraffe needs to make room for another giraffe, Lia. Handmade with love by Starbright Baby, the giraffe is made with 100 percent pre-washed cotton fabric and filled with eco-friendly fill. The fabric is BPA and all natural -- great for baby to gum on! There are 13 fabric designs to choose from all with a different, loveable name. Available at Etsy.com, $15.

Bow to it -- Mama wishes someone would have told me about these fantastic little bow holders for girls. It would have saved Mama from a huge freak out over lost barrettes and bows all over the bathroom. Most of them can be personalized but if the parents are yet to reveal the name, Mama loves the Owl one seen here. Available at Etsy.com, $8.95 with free hair bow too! OR look at this GEM, $39.95 -- great for a modern nursery!


Start the college fund -- your friend has bought everything this baby could ever need and want and then some. Be a good Auntie and start a college fund for the babe with a personalized piggy bank. People are so creative so there is so much to choose from but Mama loves the designs from Andrew and Ella Designs. Just look at that Dr. Suess piggy bank! Don't forget to feed the piggy a 20-spot! Available at Etsy.com, $31 as a set with matching door hanger.


An apple a day -- encourage the baby's healthy eating habits early with this adorable Apple Natural Wooden Teething Toy, $14, at Etsy.com.


Hats off-- there is nothing cuter than a baby in hat. In fact, Mama was determined to knit a hat for Baby Boy before he was born...it was a disaster. Mama couldn't get past step 2 and there was no Friday Night Knitting Club to help Mama out. Etsy was the next best thing. Buy 2 or 3 styles and take lots of photos! Mama loves these: Newborn Teddy Bear Earflap Beanie, $29 and Marsha the Owl Beanie, $18.99.


What is your go-to baby gift? 

Mama's Itsy Etsy

Mama's beach reads

Mama knows what your thinking...who has time to read? Before kids, Mama would probably read 3 books a month. Now it's more like 3 books a year -- and that's on the high end! Mama loves to read based on recommendations from others. There is nothing worse then starting a book and halfway through it, realizing how much time you wasted on something that was so not good. 


One way to pick good books is to pick a great author like Isabelle Allende and read all her novels in one summer. Mama was turned onto her books by a friend and loves their classic romantic tone. Try Ines of My Soul, $10.19, or The House of Spirits, $10.88, to start.


With so many titles and amazing authors to choose from it was hard to pick just five but Mama did!  


For Mamas -- after taking care of the kids all day, the last thing you want to read is about taking care of kids. How to redirect behavior, how to discipline, how to feed them...blah, blah, blah. Skip the self-help section. Instead opt for a parenting book that is full of tidbits of REAL advice but also laugh-out-loud tales of other Mamas journeys in navigating parenthood. There is nothing like reading TRUE stories to let you know that you're not alone in your struggle to juggle it all and be Super Mama. Try When Did I Get Like This? The Screamer, the Worrier, the Dinosaur-Chicken-Nugget-Buyer and Other Mothers I Swore I Would Never Be, $16.13, by Amy Wilson and Just Let Me Lie Down: Necessary Terms For the Half-Insane Working Mom, $16.49, by Kristen van Ogtrop.


For laughs -- the second book from book editor by day, Sloane Crosley, "How Did You Get This Number," is not only funny but it brings back a flood of memories of being a naive young adult -- before you had the responsibility of taking care of your little ones. Since it's a collection of nine essays, you will practically finish one a night -- making it a quick read. Available at amazon.com, $17.13. 


For book club -- Mama's book club is reading The Help by Kathryn Stockett. It was probably the best book Mama has read in years. Sure Oprah recommended it but for a good reason. Read it, think about it and then read it again. Available at amazon.com, $13.72.


For good chick lit -- you can always count on Jennifer Weiner (In Her Shoes) to give you a good beach read! Her latest Fly Away Home just hit shelves last week and tells the tale of a politician's wife and her two daughters in the wake of a scandal (could pretty much be true for all we know these days!). Or try Best Friends Forever which is the tale of true friendship. 


Motivate yourself to read by inviting a few friends to read the book too! Then pick a date to start your own "book club." Grab a bottle of wine, throw out some cheese and crackers and have some great conversation with good friends. Isn't it great how books can bring us together!


What books do you recommend Mama read?

Mama's beach reads