Follow Friday - Melissa from The Sippy Cup Mom

It's Friday once again! I can already feel the snow in the air...it's almost Christmas!!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and is ready to kick off the holiday season. I know I am!

This weeks Featured Follow Friday Blogger is the AWESOME Melissa from The Sippy Cup Mom. Melissa has a fantastic blog and is always ready and willing to give out advice to us lesser known bloggers in the internet world. Definitely head over and say hi!



Who are you (name/blog/things we should know)?


My name is Melissa and I'm the mama to one toddler! My blog is The Life of a Sippy Cup Mom. When I'm not blogging I love hanging with my family, reading and watching Cardinals Baseball!

What got you started blogging and what do you blog about?

I started blogging in March 2010 because a lot of my friends blogged and it was a great way to keep people updated on Hayden and our little family. I started putting in great deals that I found and it has grown from there! Now I still blog about our family and things we do around our great town of St. Louis but also reviews, giveaways and more!

If you were another person would you be friends with you?

Heck yes I would! ;-)


You have a HUGE following over at Sippy Cup Mom. What's your secret and do you have any advice for those just starting to gain an audience (aka ME)?

Aw, you are so sweet! My biggest advice to visit other blogs and comment! I just started going to other blogs that I liked and leaving comments! Being on Twitter is a huge help too! I have met so many other fantastic bloggers on Twitter! You can definitely join Blog Hops which is a great way to gain followers and I have found so many great blogs that way.


With the holidays approaching are there any specific traditions that you are looking forward to sharing with your little man?

I love holidays and I think it is so much more fun since I have had a child! More stressful of course, but a lot more fun! There isn't anything specific that we have, but I hope to start some things. We always go look at lights at Santa's Kingdom, bake and we made ornaments last year!


Other than Taking It One Step at a Time, what are some of your favorite blogs?

Of course yours! I read SO many blogs!

I love a belle, a bean & a chicago dog which is one of the first blogs that I started reading. I also love Real Life With Kids, Mama B and Mommy of a Monster!

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Just a reminder, I would love to feature my readers blogs so PLEASE let me know if you are interested!

Follow Friday - LCW from Waking Up Williams

I cannot believe that 1) we are over 1/2 way through November and 2) next week is Thanksgiving. Where did this year go?

I'd like to start off this morning wishing my Gramp a VERY happy birthday! Love you Gramp!

Also, a little housekeeping business ~ I'll be out of town next Friday but will be back the following week with a new Featured Follow Friday Blogger. I would LOVE to feature some of my readers so please, please, please comment here or shoot me an email to get started!

This week's Featured Follow Friday Blogger makes me laugh on a regular basis. Plus? We are kindred spirits in our love of routine, schedule and {self-diagnosed} OCD.

Please welcome LCW from Waking Up Williams and check her out!



Who are you (name/blog/things we should know)?

I'm LCW, or Lindsey. My parents call me Lindsey, and well most people who I introduce myself to know me as Lindsey, but LCW is just kinda my thing on the blog. I write on Waking up Williams, my husband is JPW and our daughter Ryann is REW. I am passionate about everything, which can be a blessing and a curse. I am self diagnosed OCD, I've been caught cleaning out the inside of my vaccuum cleaner with soap and water. I write about our poopy messes, life with a baby and two big dogs and well pretty much everything else that entails waking up, Williams.

What got you started blogging and what do you blog about?

I started blogging to keep our out of state family members up to date on our pregnancy and share stories with them about me living apart from my husband (he traveled for work). Or sometimes,the crazy stories about my neighbors and how my dogs made attempts to protect me while out on our daily walks. We're also huge nerds, so it was fun to learn how to design our blog and learn all the coding behind it.

If you were another person would you be friends with you?

I would be friends with me, how's that for a shameless friend plug. I'm nerdy, funny, clumsy and I care about others. Also, I don't take life to seriously and I'm dependable. I'm starting to sound like a personal ad, but really I'm a great friend! So yes, I'd be friends with me.

What are you most looking forward to about being a mom to a toddler?

My baby is a baby, she will never grow up and be a toddler. Noooo!!! Well how's that for denial?? But if she must grow up, I am looking forward to the conversations, hearing the wonder and amazement in her voice when she discovers something new. I can't wait until she can walk and hold my hand and tell me all her toddlerhood secrets.

You’ve been given the opportunity to go back in time and spend the day with

one person. Where do you go and who do you see?

Oh this is a tough one! I was never much of a history buff and there are family members I haven't met but heard really cool things about them. Harriet Tubman is pretty cool since she started the Underground Railroad and she was a woman. Jesus would be awesome to meet, I mean after all he is Jesus.

But I think I'd like to meet my mom's dad. My mom talks a lot about her father whom I never met, that I'd like to ride with him on the bread truck and play radio station contests. He wore white tube socks everyday, he wore black pants and white crew neck tshirts. A lot of wisdom my mom shares with me is wisdom that she grew up hearing from her dad and I'd like to visit with him and learn from him like she did.

Other than Taking It One Step at a Time, what are some of your favorite

blogs?

This is by no means my final list, however some of the regular blogs I read and miss when they don't post:

Heir to Blair

The Outdoor Wife

Raising Madison

Accustomed Chaos

The Lame Sauce

Mom Nom

O My Family

Becoming Sarah

Follow Friday - Emily from The Many Thoughts of a Reader

TGIF readers! Does it feel like it should be Saturday for anyone else? No? Just Me? ::sigh::

You may or may not know this, but I am a self-professed Book Worm. I love to read. And I'm pretty open to reading anything I can get my hands on {sorry, anything I can get my hands on that doesn't involve aliens...I have some standards.}

Enter this week's Featured Follow Friday Blogger, Emily from The Many Thoughts of a Reader. When I'm looking for new ideas for a book to sink my teeth in to I go here. Between her reviews and her Monthly Book Club discussions, you are sure to find something that you fancy.

So if you're re-reading Twilight for the 78th time {I mean, I'm not...well...errr...} or are just looking for something new, do yourself a favor and check out The Many Thoughts of a Reader.

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Who are you (name/blog/things we should know)?

I am Emily, mainly known as pinkflipflops in the blog world. My blog is The Many Thoughts of a Reader. I have been blogging publicly since late 2008/early 2009. Before that I had and still do (shhh) a private livejournal account where I have been sharing stuff with the same group of ladies that I have known online since I was 14. Pretty crazy. I am married to a pretty great guy who puts up with my reading and my blogging and he will make me dinner whenever I want. I love Ohio State football, wine, boating and reading a good book. Oh and enjoying summer sunsets on Lake Michigan.


What got you started blogging and what do you blog about?

I started my public blog because I love to read and wanted to start sharing with others about it and because the blogging world looked pretty cool. ;) I had started reading a bunch of blogs around then, mainly ones I found from reading the blogs on glamour.com’s site. I blog mainly about books, but I also blog about recipes, things related to books and reading, football and just random stuff. Hence, why my blog is titled Many Thoughts of a Reader.


If you were another person would you be friends with you?

Probably. I am pretty blunt and don’t tend to sugarcoat things so I guess if other people can handle not having smoke blown up their butts all the time, they would want to be friends with me. I also share wine.


Do you have any favorite authors/books that you can't get enough of?

I was on a James Patterson kick (Alex Cross series and Women’s Murder Club series) for the longest time because his books are so quick to read and are crime/police related but then they all started to seem the same. I also enjoy Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series, they are HILARIOUS! My all-time favorite book would be Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. I love re-reading it, I love watching the different movies and I love watching it as a play!


You've read a TON of books in 2010 ~ what has been your favorite? Your least favorite?

Some of my favorite books that I have read this year: The Help by Kathryn Stockett, Steig Larsson’s series about The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, 13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher, Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah, The Last Child by John Hart, The Wednesday Sisters by Meg Cabot, Loving Frank by Nancy Horan and I have most recently gotten into Tess Gerritsen’s books which the TNT series Rizzoli & Isles is based off.

Least favorites: The Sister Pact – Cami Checketts (so lame and laughable). Fly Away Home – Jennifer Weiner (I really wanted to like it and it had potential it just fell flat) Forget You – Jennifer Echols (seriously one of the worst books I’ve ever forced myself to finish)


If you could be any literary character who would it be and why?

Hmm.. probably Jo from Little Women. She is independent, strong-willed and fiercely loyal. All qualities I like in myself. On a less literary note, I would also kill to be a kick ass detective like Jane Rizzoli or Lindsey Boxer!


Other than Taking It One Step at a Time, what are some of your favorite blogs?

Oh boy, I read so many but some of my faves are:

http://lisasyarns.blogspot.com/ - Lisa has an all around blog with dating mishaps, pictures of her adorable nephews, updates on her marathon training and some really neat book reviews



http://girlwiththeredhair.com/ - Amber is a freelance writer who always has interesting topics and is also training for a marathon



http://theheirtoblair.com/ - Blair is just an amazing writer and I really enjoy her honesty



http://www.shewearsaredsoxcap.com/ Kelly is a Kindergarten teacher in Boston who always has yummy food posts or beautiful Cape Cod photos



http://www.bookhookedblog.com/ Julie has super cute book related crafts, interesting reviews and is just a sweet girl



http://deadwhiteguyslit.blogspot.com/ Dead White Guys is hilarious! She reviews classics and her voting system is out of your mom hilarious!



Seriously, I read a ton of blogs so just check out my massive blogroll!

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Don't forget, I'm looking for more Featured Follow Friday Bloggers so please comment here with your blog info if you would like to be included in the fun!

Follow Friday - Katie from Sluiter Nation

Happy Friday everyone! I hope you all had a great week.

The new job is going REALLY well, but man has it been busy! Plus I'm going through major internet withdrawal - no Facebook, no Twitter...Ahhhhhhhh.

This weeks featured Follow Friday blogger is none other than Katie from Sluiter Nation. I was introduced to Katie by one of my e-besties, Miranda from Not Super...Just Mom and I'm so glad she did. I hope you will check her out and leave her some love!

Who are you (name/blog/things we should know)?

My name is Katie Sluiter! It's so fun to be here today! I am a mom, a wife, a teacher, and so much more! I have a couple blogs: Sluiter Nation and Katie's Bookcase. Sluiter Nation is my place to talk about me and my little family. We have lots of ups and downs...more downs lately...but we always seem to find the funny in it. I am a PPD/A survivor and through the blogging/twitter communities have really found a passion for helping to advocate for woman who suffer postpartum disorders. My son, Eddie, is quite literally a blessing to us. We suffered two miscarriages before he decided to "stick". And since he has been in our life? We have never laughed more!

What got you started blogging and what do you blog about?

I started blogging at Sluiter Nation back in 2007. It was really just a way to have a place for all our family and friends to see what was going on in our life. This past spring I sort of learned more about the blogging community, and I found twitter. I also found out I have PPD/A. When I decided to tell anyone who wanted to read about it on my blog, the response was overwhelming. I went from 7 little faces in my GFC to over a hundred! I couldn't believe the support out there!

I blog about PPD/A, but I also blog about everything else that goes with being a working mom and wife. Whatever is going on with us? I share. Sharing (and sometimes oversharing) is who I am. I am a communication addict.

This past summer I started up Katie's Bookcase as a way to talk about books and all things reading. I have been a high school language teacher for the past eight years and have come to realize how very important it is to become a life-long reader. After realizing that there was no way I could read books fast enough to satiate the thirst my readers had for new reviews, I took on nine contributing authors to help me out. They have been doing an amazing job and it's really becoming a little community of people who love to read and talk about it!

If you were another person would you be friends with you?

I would totally be friends with me! I am hella fun!

I wrote a guest post once about why I am a great guest to have over. I will seriously bring the fun.

I try very hard to be the kind of person that thinks of how others will feel/react to things. I know I am no good at hugging you when you cry, but I WILL make you laugh. And I would rather laugh than get a hug, so yeah. I am my own kind of peep.

What has been one of your favorite moments of being a mom?

The best thing ever about being a mom was the moment I realized that I was Eddie's mom. I was his. And he SEES me that way.

It happened at a time when most people would be tired and annoyed and ready to just put him down and let him cry. He had woken up just as the hubs and I were going to go to bed. I don't know if he had a nightmare or what, but he was inconsolable. The ONLY person he wanted to cuddle with was me. Daddy did NOTHING for him. Suddenly in that stressful moment I felt sudden peace. My heart smiled and sang. I am a momma. I am HIS momma.

What is one piece of information you would give all new moms and moms-to-be that you wish you had gotten?

I wish I had known more about postpartum disorders. The only thing I knew about were the Baby Blues and what I had seen on For Keeps (you know, with Molly Ringwald ignoring her baby and then she suddenly gets better with no help from doctors or meds? Yeah, that). That was not how it was AT ALL. I know it's different for every woman, but the literature and passing comments I got said NOTHING about feeling an overneed for perfection or the guilt or the resentment or the anger toward people who WEREN'T my baby.

I would tell moms that feeling all emotional for a couple weeks? Totally normal. But if any of those feelings feel out of control or manic? That is NOT normal! Tell someone! Don't wait and think it will go away. I waited 9 months. Nine months I can't get back with my son, my husband or anyone else I lashed out at. If you're not healthy? Neither is your family.

Other than Taking It One Step at a Time, what are some of your favorite blogs?

Oh man. This one is SO hard because I am SURE to leave SOMEONE out! Well, I never miss a post by Kris at Pretty All True or Adrienne over at No Points for Style. And of course there is Miranda over at Not Super...Just Mom. She is like my etwin! We are both teachers, both have blond curly-haired one-ish year olds, and we are both awesome. But I can't forget Emily of DesignHer Momma. She is my IRL friend as well as my bloggy friend. There are many, MANY others who I adore. My reader is always jam-packed with tons of great reads!

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I hope you have a fantastic weekend readers - don't forget, I'm looking for more featured Follow Friday Bloggers so contact me if you would like to be included!

Follow Friday - Gretchen from Our Journey

Another Friday is upon us...and Halloween weekend at that! Do you have your costumes ready yet? What about your candy? {FYI - I do not have a costume, and I also fail in the candy department.}

This weeks Follow Friday featured bloggers is one of the many mom-of-multiples that I am forever in awe of. I mean, one I can handle...but two {or three???} No way man.

Gretchen from Our Journey was kind enough to share some of her wisdom and charm and I urge you to check her out!




Who are you (name/blog/things we should know)?

I'm Gretchen and my Blog title is Our Journey (So original, I know), at http://Lilbumpkin.blogspot.com . I am a stay-at-home-mom to two wonderful boy/girl twins, Kaylie and Cavan (pronounced like Gavin with a "C"). I'm married to my best friend who I met when I was 6 and married 20 years later!

What got you started blogging and what do you blog about?

I started blogging shortly after my miscarriage last year. I wanted and needed a place to just let out all the emotions I couldn't show in person. So I wrote it and hit publish. It was the best therapy I'd had. Then my husband and I decided to try for a baby again and got pregnant right away with twins! So I have pretty much blogged about their "Journey" from day 1. I do blog from time to time about myself, just as a way to have some "Grown-up Time" if you will. I do have a couple of pages on my blog that I've added on over time; My 101 in 1001 challenge which is a list of goals I want to accomplish in 1001 days and my Project 365 where I take a picture everyday for a year to chronicle the happenings in my life day by day.

If you were another person would you be friends with you?

Of course! I think I'm a pretty fun person to hang around. I try not to be mopey and just give me a little sangria or a mojito and I'm even more entertaining!

As a mom of multiples you must be a master multi-tasker. What are some of your trade secrets that help you keep your sanity?

Haha, I'm pretty sure my sanity went out the window shortly after that blessed day in March. But in all honesty, a lot of it is just keeping an open mind with everything. It's nice to set goals as far as keeping schedules, getting things done, and life in general. But I always keep it in the back of my mind that not everything is going to go according to plan, and you know, that's ok. It will all get done...eventually.

What is something you swore you would never do when you became a parent but found out it must be done?

I swore that I would never co-sleep with my babies. It was for no other reason than we have the dogs sleeping in our bed and with a Queen size bed, it's already a bit crowded. Now we definitely don't do this often, but there are nights when one of the twins will wake up at say 3:00am and just want to play. So I scoop them up and lay them next to their Daddy, put the TV on and let them pull his hair, smack his face, and steal his pillow, while I go back to sleep :)

Other than Taking It One Step at a Time, what are some of your favorite blogs?

Well other than Taking it One Step at a Time, and some of the big ones everyone knows about (ahem Heir to Blair and The Pioneer Woman) I would have to say that these are my top 3 blogs I love to read:

Shelby at First Comes Love Then Comes Baby? (http://mylifeoutoforder.blogspot.com/)

Jenn at West Sac Honey (http://westsachoney.blogspot.com/)

Taylor at The Undomestic Momma (http://www.theundomesticmomma.com/)


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PS - I'm looking for more Featured Follow Friday Bloggers so please shoot me an email at TakingItOneStep@gmail.com if you are interested!
Happy Friday!

Follow Friday - Alena from Charmingly Chandler

It's Friday again!! Woo hoo!

This week has been a whirlwind. I'm getting trained like whoa at the new job plus did you know the holidays are RIGHT around the corner? Seriously, how ridiculous it that?

This weeks featured Follow Friday Blogger is none other than the very charming Alena from Charmingly Chandler.



Alena was a lucky winner of a lia sophia giveaway I hosted awhile back and lo and behold she has this FANTASTIC blog and oh my, a darling little girl. It is a joy to read her blog and see how passionate she is about so many different things. Please do yourself a favor and check her out.

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Who are you (name/blog/things we should know)?

I'm Alena, and I write the blog Charmingly Chandler!


What got you started blogging and what do you blog about?

I started blogging to keep our family up to date with Sophia. I wanted to be able to share pictures, but also tell stories with the pictures. With family so far away it was the best way I felt they could get to know her.


If you were another person would you be friends with you?

Absolutely. I haven't always felt that way, but in the past year I've grown and changed a lot. I think that it's all made me a better friend.


What is something that you've learned being part of the military life that has helped you to become a kick-ass mom?

Independence. Part of being a military wife is being ok standing on your own. Getting things done on your own. I think that "take charge" "you can do pretty much anything" attitude has really affected my parenting. I am more assertive with doctors and caretakers. I don't wait for things to do, I look for them. Maybe that's not all the military life...but I think it's definitely made a difference.


If you could go back to your 18 year old self and tell her anything, what would it be?

Whew, heavy. 18 was a good year. But I'd tell myself to guard my heart, not just in love but in friendship. And I guess that's a lesson I'm still learning today. Guard your heart.


Other than Taking It One Step at a Time, what are some of your favorite blogs?

Obviously Taking It One Step at a Time! But I also read about 80 or so other blogs, probably even more through twitter! The Paro Post, What the Blog, Mom-In-A-Million, Spilled Milk, Mom-Nom, Exploits of a Military Mama, oh so many. In fact it's hard to even list them all. We'd be here ALL.DAY.LONG!

Follow Friday - Gina from The Ish Blog

Happy Friday lovahs! I hope you have all had a wonderful week and even better fall-filled excitement planned for the weekends.

This weeks featured Follow Friday Blogger is none other Gina from The Ish Blog. Gina is a fellow New Yorker {so I'm sure she can tell you that while yes, the leaves changing are a beautiful sight, it is still very depressing...because of the snow. All that snow.}

Also? Her little man is just as bald as Keagan. And that makes me smile.

So please, give a nice warm welcome to Gina ~ check her out!



Who are you (name/blog/things we should know)?

I'm Gina - my blog is The Ish Blog (http://theishblog.blogspot.com). My blog revolves around life with my toddler son Matthew, who we nicknamed Ish long before he was born. I'm a full-time working mom, working and living in beautiful Westchester County, NY.

What got you started blogging and what do you blog about?

I started blogging while on maternity leave. Ish was 6 weeks old when I started and I already had about 5000 pictures of him on my computer. I wanted to share them with family and friends and thought a blog was a great place to do that! I like to tell the story behind the pictures too, so it's nice to have an outlet for my writing as well as my photography.

If you were another person would you be friends with you?

Absolutely - who wouldn't love me???!!! Seriously though, I think the friends I have are a reflection of the kind of friend I am - and that says a lot!

What is something you swore you would never do when you became a parent but found out it must be done?

Ice cream before dinner. Ice cream AS dinner. Ish is a very picky eater.

What is one piece of information you would give all new moms and moms-to-be that you wish you had gotten?

That it can be really hard in the beginning. And that it's ok to ask for help.

Other than Taking It One Step at a Time, what are some of your favorite blogs?

There are so many blogs out there that I love - my blog roll is ever expanding! Some of my favorite favorites:
The Heir to Blair (http://theheirtoblair.com)
And Potato Makes Three (http://www.kayla-randolph.blogspot.com/)
Mama's Little Chick (http://www.mamaslittlechick.blogspot.com/)
Sluiter Nation (http://www.sluiternation.com/)

Follow Friday - Jenn&Tonica from What the Blog?

TGIF Readers. T.G.I.F.

Seriously.

This week has been nuts. 10 hours in a car on Sunday {which by the way we ALL survived}, starting a new job on Monday, and oh yeah...did I mention my child is the devil incarnate {or perhaps approaching terrible two ::gasp:: status}?

Needless to say there is a very large bottle of Barefoot Pinot Grigio with my name on it in the fridge.

I'm serious. I used a Sharpie.

Anywho.

This week's Follow Friday featured blogger is none other than the lovely, the talented, Jen {not Jenn} from What the Blog? Not only is she a to the point, no holding back straight shooter, but she also makes me laugh on a daily basis.

And? She's having triplets, yo. Seriously. Triplets. Single-handedly she has filled my twitter-feed with #triplets. It's ridiculous.

So, if you aren't familiar please go check out Jen from What the Blog? and tell her Jess sent you.

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Who are you (name/blog/things we should know)?

I’m just a small-town girl living in a lonely world. Wait. I think that’s some chick Bon Jovi sang about.

Riiiiight. I’m Jen, Jenny or Jennifer – never Jenn. I call my own little piece of the Internet “What the blog?” and I’m a former journalist who finally learned to love to write my own stuff rather than just edit what’s been written by others. I’m a nerd. I’m hilarious. I finally rebelled at 27 years old and dyed my hair pink – probably because there was no one to yell at me about it.

What got you started blogging and what do you blog about?

I started back in 2007 because my head was just too full of blather, and I found myself babbling to my husband about stuff that would make his eyes glaze over. A lot of my writing back then was about health and fitness and my struggles to be both healthy and fit. Since then, I’ve blogged about cooking, reading, writing, infertility, and – most recently – pregnancy. Basically, I write about what’s most prominent in my life.

If you were another person would you be friends with you?

Um, YES! Well, maybe not if I met myself at a random mixer where no one knew anybody else. In that scenario, I’d probably wonder who the silent girl with pink hair was and why she was just standing in the corner staring at everyone. I’m a bit out of my element among complete strangers, especially if there are a lot of outgoing strangers.

So…triplets, huh? What are some of the ridiculous questions/comments/advice you have gotten since finding out?

Yep, triplets. Oddly enough, no one has given me advice or asked any crazy questions. I do have one family member who repeatedly sticks her foot in her mouth – like the one time she told me I’m like an elephant. I guess elephants are the only animals in her world that have triplets or something? Maybe the pink hair is intimidating to most. Or maybe I’m just too much in a delicate position for people to try stepping on my toes.

If I get a buttload of dumb comments, I’m coming after you, Jess.

If you could go back in time and give your 18 year old self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Don’t listen to your doctor when she says birth control will regulate your cycle. Take some initiative or at least demand an answer for why you don’t have those mythical 28-day cycles. It just might save you some wall punches and a few boxes of tissues in the future.

Other than Taking It One Step at a Time, what are some of your favorite blogs?

One of my favorites is Mad Woman in the Forest, written by author Laurie Halse Anderson. She’s one of my favorite YA authors, and she is an amazing inspiration to any writer. Obviously she focuses on fiction, but a lot of the advice and prompts she gives help with general writing.

Plus, she lives in the woods. And she has chickens. And a kick-ass garden. And she chops wood.

Another favorite is probably the first blog I ever started following: Supafine. It’s written by my friend’s sister, Mary Beth. MB is someone I admire and would love to be like someday when I grow up. She sews, she knits, she has a growing brood of kick-ass kids and a handsome husband, and she’s a great writer.

Follow Friday - The Paro Post

Happy Friday everyone! I hope you all have been enjoying my fabulous guest posters while I'm out and about with the family.

This weeks Follow Friday featured blogger is dear and fabulously talented Becca from The Paro Post.



I met Becca {sit down for a shock} on the internet. {I do have *real* friends, I promise} Her adorable son Jax and Keagan are pretty close in age so we tended to be on the baby boards at the same time. She is just adorable. Seriously. Like you want to pick her up and put her in your pocket adorable.

And? Talented is her middle name. She is the creator of Jumping Jax Designs and I can't say enough great things about her work. I was lucky enough to commission her to do Keagan's 1st birthday invites {and I've ordered his 2nd birthday invites from her too...yes, I realize I have 5 months...shush}. I highly recommend checking her out for invitations, blog design, birth announcements, etc.

So here she is, please welcome Becca from The Paro Post. Go visit and tell her Jess sent you.

Who are you (name/blog/things we should know)?

I'm Becca. A 23 year old mom, wife, momtrepreneur, chocoholic and reformed caffeine addict. I'm obsessed with pictures, work way too much, and love what I do.

What got you started blogging and what do you blog about? I started blogging shortly after my husband and I got married in 2008. Little did I know that 3 days after my first blog post, I'd get BFP, and the blog would turn into a pregnancy journal/baby book, and a way to keep out-of-town family up to date on our life! I blog about raising my little guy and the joys and stresses that it entails.

If you were another person would you be friends with you? Yes! I like to think that I'm a good friend, and can be fiercely loyal. I'm sure I have my annoying moments, but don't we all? ;)

You have a lot on your plate; mom, wife, family, Jumping Jax Designs…how do you juggle everything and still keep your sanity?

Sanity? What's that? But really, this is something I struggle with every day. I am getting better at the balancing act, and it helps that Jax is able to occupy himself for longer than 2 minutes at a time now, so it is getting easier. I'm a list maker, organizational freak, and I have no idea what I would do without a husband who happily takes over most parenting responsibilities on the evenings and weekends. I'm learning that even 5 minutes of "me" time, whether it be relaxing on the couch or taking a quick shower to feel human again, can go a very long way.

What has been one of your most favorite parts of being a mom?

Lately, Jax is getting much more communicative (Tonight, he said "ah lab yoo"! Yeah, you can find me in a puddle on the floor!) and gives me kisses and lets me know that he loves me in return, which is just about the sweetest thing ever. I also love that sometimes I'm the only one who can make it "better" when he falls or gets hurt. Daddy might be able to get the best laughs from him, but I'll always be his Mama. :)

Other than Taking It One Step at a Time, what are some of your favorite blogs?

Oh goodness, this is a toughie! There are over 100 blogs in my Google Reader, and I think listing them all would be annoying, so I'll name a few favorites...I have LOTS more than just these though!


Life in the Fun Lane
Another Joyous Journey
Charmingly Chandler
Heir To Blair
Harper's Happenings

Follow Friday - Heir to Blair

Happy Friday!

First and foremost I would like to wish my Gram a Happy 75th Birthday. I love you Gram and can't wait to see you tonight!

As many of you know, this week has been a bit crazy for me. I'm in the process of changing jobs {yeah!!} and getting ready for a 10 hour car ride with Randy and Keagan next week to see my family in Virginia.

Yes. 10 hours. In a car. With them. {oy}

I hope you have all had great weeks and have a wonderful weekend planned out. I've got some fantastic guest bloggers to cover for me next week while I'm away and I hope you check them out!

Also, don't forget to enter the EcoMom $15 Gift Card giveaway! It closes Monday night so don't delay!

Today I have a downright celebrity as my featured Follow Friday blogger.

I knew "Blair" before she hit the big time of the blog-o-sphere ~ it's amazing the people you meet just by chatting together on boards meant for baby talk {and FYI, baby talk may be like 25% of what the conversations usually revolve around.} Her quick wit, her honesty and humor made her an obvious match as a friend. Plus, she seems like someone that can mix a mean gin and tonic {total speculation of course}.

I'm glad to have "met" her and I'm stoked she has remembered the "little people" {pssst...that's me!}.

So, here she is Heir to Blair herself ~ go check her out.

Who are you (name/blog/things we should know)?

I’m Blair.

Not really. I’m Beth Anne. But I write under the name “Blair.” At first it was to keep the crazies at bay & be anonymously awesome, but now it’s just habit.

& I write The Heir to Blair. Which is about having heirs. You know, that darling blonde rugrat that runs circles around me. I wrote about getting pregnant, being pregnant, & now I write about motherhood.

What got you started blogging and what do you blog about?

I started blogging in 2008 as a way to talk about my uterus without people giving me funny looks. I needed an outlet for the jumbled mess in my head that surrounded pregnancy & motherhood.

I’ve blogged about everything from pregnancy to thongs to postpartum depression to mom jeans. No topic is off-limits & I try to stay relevant & self-deprecating at all times.

If you were another person would you be friends with you?

Because I have a ridiculous laugh & I’m always good for a coffee date & a cupcake. Also? I trip a lot. So being my friend will make you feel exceptionally graceful.

You are forced to become a “Damn Yankee.” What are two things you, as a Southern Belle, would insist on bringing to the north (customs, foods, manners, etc.)?

Say it isn’t so!! The first I would insist upon is the phrase “Bless your heart,” which can cover everything from “I’m sorry your dog just died” to “You got a new job!” to “F*ck you.” It’s very versatile & always appropriate.

& Northerner’s don’t know the healing powers of a properly prepared hushpuppy dipped in butter.

What has been one of your “Aha! I’ve finally figured it out.” mom moments to date?

It’s honestly been a long, hard road to any kind of “aha!” mom moment. But I would say my most recent was the other evening – Nate was working late & the sun was shining. I really wasn’t in the mood to go to the park after an hour-long commute – I just wanted to go home, put on yoga pants, & pour a glass of wine. But I knew Harrison would enjoy some time in the swings, so I pulled into our local park & spent 20 minutes pushing him. It completely lifted my heart & made me realize that THIS is what motherhood is about sometimes – the tiny selfless acts all to see my child smile. That’s what makes me a good mom at the end of the day.

Other than Taking It One Step at a Time, what are some of your favorite blogs?

Ohh, this is a good one & also my least-favorite, because I am sure I will leave someone out. & I read a lot of blogs – you kind of have to, in our little community. It’s the best part of being a blogger.

The Bloggess – She is simply split-your-sides funny. & she gives good hugs.

Harper’s Happenings – Narwhals, wine, & basically the greatest Tweeter in the universe with one damn cute kid.

The Outdoor Wife – I’ve known Nish for going on 15 years now & she’s like a breath of fresh air for the soul, both in-person & on the webs.

Exploits of a Military Momma – She is the epitome of strength, loyalty, & class.

Lauren from Texas – Lauren is like sunshine in my Google Reader.

The818 – Funny, heartfelt, genuine. She’s the real deal.

The Nester – Please come decorate my house. Thank you.

All Work & No Play Makes Momma Go Something-Something – One of my PPD warrior mommas that faces it head-on with hilarity.

Annie’s Eats – I am amazed by her talent on a daily basis.

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I feel flushed just being {thisclose} to stardom. {giggle}

Happy Friday and cheers.

Follow Friday - the naming of things

Thank God it's Friday. Truer words may never have been spoken. At least not after this week. Phew.

Wait, strike that.

THANK GOD there's wine.

That's better.

Hope you all had a wonderful week and a great weekend lined up. It's supposed to be gorgeous in CNY (read: not snowing) and I can't wait.

This weeks Follow Friday featured blogger is my very dear friend Myndi. Myndi, like last weeks featured blogger Allison, is part of our Knaughty Knotties group that has been together for many, many years.

Do you have one of those friends that you look at and hear their stories and just think "Man, what an awesome life?"

This is how I feel every.single.time. I talk with Myndi. Living in Chicago, traveling abroad, a husband in law school, ridiculously talented in everything she touches...and? Girl can throw a dinner party like nobodies business.

I've had the distinct pleasure of sharing several beers and a bottle of wine with Myn, and I love her dearly.

Oh yeah...and her blog? Genius. There really aren't enough words in my limited vocabulary to describe just how much I enjoy it. I hope you do too.

So, here you are, my Follow Friday featured blogger: Myndi from the naming of things. GO give her some comment love. You won't regret it.

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Who are you (name/blog/things we should know)?

Hi. My name is Myndi and I blog here: the naming of things. I live in Chicago with my brilliant husband, Charlie. He is in his last year of law school and I work as a Senior Editor for a publishing firm. I love to create things. Whether it’s in kitchen, at my desk, or behind the camera lens, I take great pleasure in the creative process. I am blessed with a wonderful family and great friends. I look forward to the future chapters of our lives when we will start a family and take on the next great adventure.

What got you started blogging and what do you blog about?

I started blogging back in 2002 when blogging wasn’t even a proper term. I was in college and needed a quiet place to record my thoughts. Since then life has changed dramatically, though my blog has remained a pretty consistent place. It is still that quiet corner I can go to record my thoughts. I can also share my favorite recipes, photographs, and art. I include a little of everything.

If you were another person would you be friends with you?

I sure hope so! I really cherish my friends and love the opportunity to make them feel as loved as I do.

What is your dream concert to attend?

Only one? So hard to choose! Miles Davis in 1959? The Beatles on their final tour in 1966? The Velvet Underground & Nico in 1967? Woodstock? I don’t think I can choose one!

What famous people, alive or dead, would make the cut for your awesome dinner party guest list?

Jimi Hendrix? He might light a guitar on fire and that could be pretty entertaining. Truman Capote? He’d be sure to have all of the gossip and would probably make a mean cocktail. Then again Shakespeare would have some good stories to share.

Other than Taking It One Step at a Time, what are some of your favorite blogs?

I geek out over fashion and love to get inspired at The Sartorialist: http://thesartorialist.blogspot.com/

For cooking ideas, I love to head over to Smitten Kitchen: http://smittenkitchen.com/

Can’t wait for her cookbook to be published!

I love all things design and am constantly decorating and redecorating the rooms of our apartment. Design Sponge is a great source of inspiration: http://www.designspongeonline.com/

My friend Channing is an incredible photographer. I love to look at his work: http://www.channingjohnsonblog.com/

If you’re like me and love Etsy but get overwhelmed when you start browsing the site, head over to Poppytalk Handmade. Poppytalk Handmade sorts through Etsy and features the best of the best each month. I usually stop over each month and get a head start on my holiday shopping: http://poppytalkhandmade.com/

Hope you have a great weekend readers - remember, I'm looking for more featured bloggers so contact me to get on the calendar!

Follow Friday - Notorious ABZ

Well we made it. I hope we did any way. Sorry it has been so quiet here this week. Between me being sick, work and, oh yeah the whole family thing it has been a bit crazed.

But never fear, it is Friday and I am here!

This weeks featured blogger for Follow Friday is a very dear friend of mine. Allison and I met on theknot.com when we were planning our weddings. Yes, THAT long ago. Her and I {and several other Knaughty Knotties} have been email corresponding for years and have even had the pleasure to meet each other {some more than others}.

Allison is also a former New Yorker, and though she hates to admit it, one day she WILL live right down the thruway from me. I foresee it, so it will be.

When she isn't taking care of her absolutely stunning toddler and her amazingly talented husband she is a fantastically talented writer and makes me laugh on a daily basis.

Now, if only she would come to her senses and realize that the entire contents of her closet should be shipped to Syracuse that would be perfection. {Seriously. It's THAT drool-worthy}

So my dears, here it is, a little look into Allison from Notorious ABZ. Go check her out, you won't regret it.

Who are you (name/blog/things we should know)?

Oh honey, I wish I knew who I was. It’s an ongoing project. I like to swear and I like to eat cheese; does that help?

My blog is notoriousabz.blogspot.com, a title I chose long before I had any idea what I’d blog about or who might read it. But I do love hot tubs, Cristal and smoking L’s, and I like to think of myself as freestyling my way through life, so the name has stayed. I’d never put grape jelly on a steak, though. That’s going too far.

I’m a wife, a mom, a freelance writer and a hopeless over thinker. I grew up in NY but now I live in Florida. When I’m not swearing or eating cheese I can usually be found engaged in any number of situation comedy styled misadventures or running around trying to keep the sky from falling. Which means I’m rarely at a loss for blog topics, so there’s that.

What got you started blogging and what do you blog about?

I got started because I didn’t have a job and I had tons of free time. Makes you wonder what would have happened if I’d just taken myself to the movies once in a while, doesn’t it?

Sometimes my blogs are personal and nice. Sometimes I just blog about shit like gum. It’s a mixed bag.

If you were another person would you be friends with you?

Hell motherfucking yes. I’m loyal and generous and occasionally very funny, and I’m one hell of a cook. I won’t help you move but I’ll rewrite your resume, and when I’m not broke I will totally bail you out of jail. Plus I have a side business as a baker so if cookies are what you’re in to…


You are (willingly) being sent to a deserted island for two weeks and can only bring two items with you (not people). What are they and why?

Sunscreen and a loaded Kindle, one that would never run out of juice. Incidentally, is this an option? Because it’s starting to sound sort of wonderful.

If you could only keep one piece of clothing or accessory in your closet, what would it be?

There’s a really big ladder in there right now and we use it a lot, so it might have to be that. But if you’re strict about this clothes and accessories thing, then I guess…I have no idea. Because who wears just one thing? Where am I going in my velvet blazer and no pants? We might be at this for a while. Who can choose between Gucci and Vuitton? Certainly not me. Can’t we just pick a favorite from each category? Pants, sweaters, sweaterpants, dresses, dress pants, shirts…

Okay, okay. I have a super short black cotton/silk shirt dress from Club Monaco that I know I’ll never be able to find in a store ever again. It’s sick and it fits even when I put on or lose weight, and it’s never going out of style. It also just came back from the drycleaner so it’s at the front of my brain. I’ll go with that. For now. Since you’re limiting me. Why are you so mean? What kind of friend sends me to a deserted island and takes away my clothes? No cookies for you. And you can rot in jail for all I care.

Other than Taking It One Step at a Time, what are some of your favorite blogs?

Myndi at myndidevore.blogspot.com has beautiful photos and lots of lovely writing, and Jen Lancaster at jennsylvania routinely makes me laugh out loud.. Also, thisisyardsale.blogspot.com is my extremely talented cousin, and I love seeing what she’s doing. She is going to fill my house with art one day. Also, my husband is doing Project 365 through his blog at dreamshopdigitalarts.blogspot.com


There you have it readers...another fantastic Follow Friday being wrapped up. I'm in the process of filling the calendar for Follow Friday so if you have a blog that you would like featured (even your own!) contact me and we'll get it rocking!

Have a great weekend!

Follow Friday - The Brunette Foodie

Well, here we are, another work week over and done with. I hope you all made it without too many mishaps.

This week I'd like to introduce you all to my friend Stephanie who blogs over at The Brunette Foodie. When Stephanie isn't juggling work and a newborn she is trying out new recipes and sharing them, step-by-step with her readers.



I can say from personal experience that her Stove Top Macaroni and Cheese is to DIE for. Even picky-pants Randy agrees.

On top of the great recipes, etiquette tips and the adorable pictures of the newest addition to the family she also has these great Menu Plans that are awesome inspiration when you are in a food rut.

So, without further ado I give you a little snippet of The Brunette Foodie herself. Go check her out.


Who are you (name/blog/things we should know)?

My name is Stephanie. I write The Brunette Foodie {link: http://www.thebrunettefoodie.com}. I love ice cream and garlic. Not together.

You can also find me on Twitter {@slsears758} and on Facebook {The Brunette Foodie}.

What got you started blogging and what do you blog about?

A friend of mine kept emailing me for recipes, and finally she said “if you would just start a blog I could stop bothering you.” So I did. I mostly write up recipes for everything from cookies to lasagnas to side dishes. Sometimes I force people to read about my personal life.


If you were another person would you be friends with you?

Tricky. Probably yes, but not on my moody days.


Do you have a “signature dish” and if so what is it?

I make killer lasagnas. All sorts: veggie, traditional, summer, etc. It’s the Italian thing.

What is one of your favorite foods to cook/bake?

Cakes. I am horrible at icing, but I figure compulsive baking is a way to improve that. So far it hasn’t.


Other than Taking It One Step at a Time, what are some of your favorite blogs?

Cakespy {link: http://www.cakespy.com}
Brown Eyed Baker {link: http://www.browneyedbaker.com}
Smitten Kitchen {link: http://www.smittenkitchen.com}

Follow Friday - Monkey Butt Junction

Well readers, we made it. Finally. And I only cried at my desk once. And drank 1/2 price margaritas mid-week (I generally save my drinking exclusively to wine and weekends). But here it is, our Friday. TGIF.

This week's Follow Friday blogger is my good friend Jenn over at Monkey Butt Junction. Jenn is not only an awesome person, but she is also the ONLY attorney I know that can rock a skull & crossbones shirt, to work and KILL it.

Plus she is going to be my sugar momma. And really, what more can you ask for?




This week I thought I would try a little one-on-one interview with Jenn to let my readers see for themselves why I think they should follow her...


Who are you (name/blog/things we should know)?

I am Jenn, and I blog over at http://www.monkeybuttjunction.com/.

My 8 month old son and my awesome husband rock my world.

What got you started blogging and what do you blog about?


I started blogging years ago with a goofy little personal blog on Myspace, and from there I went on to be a paid blogger for 451 Press and the Examiner, writing about tattoos of all things, and now I just focus on my Monkey Butt Junction blog.

If you were another person would you be friends with you?



Yes, if for no other reason than because I make a mean eggplant parmesan.

How do you spend your free time?


I recently began jogging, which is crazy because I have always hated running. Now I’m embracing it – how weird is that? Obviously I love writing, and with that comes a love of reading. I’m big on self-sufficiency and green living so I garden and can and even make my own wine (want some? I don’t know how to make a small batch – I get 28 bottles at a time). And I always seize the opportunity to just go out and experience life with my son. He’s been to museums, gallery nights, tattoo shops, antique stores, sporting events, and we’re just getting started. He’s so happy – I want to be just like him when I grow up.

If you were a crayon, what color would you be?


Crimson.


Other than Taking It One Step at a Time, what are some of your favorite blogs?

I love Enjoying the Small Things and Pioneer Woman – I turn to those for daily inspiration. I admire the daring style of Blogging Dangerously, and whenever I need a laugh I turn to Hyperbole and a Half.

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There you have it. If you haven't already popped over to Monkey Butt Junction go do so, and tell her Jess sent you!

Have a great weekend all!

Follow Friday

Good Morning! It is FINALLY Friday. The wine is chilling, the dinner is prepped (yes, I've made homemade mac&cheese to be tossed in the oven and served with hot dogs this evening...and it's only 8am) and the boss will be in a Partner Meeting a good portion of the afternoon. Life. Is. Sweet.

So you all know that I've had a recent encounter with a social networking site that I am JUST in love with. Since becoming a user of Twitter I have been linked up to so many awesome bloggers - new moms, experienced moms, crafters, artists, etc. I was skeptical at first, but I'm really very happy that my good friend Miranda forced suggested that I join up.

I know that Twitter isn't everyone's cup of tea though. I get it. I used to be you. I also know that there are bloggers out there that are awesome and that I'm sure many of my readers would love to read. Enter Follow Friday.




Every Friday (hopefully) I will be featuring a new blogger that I love and that I would like to share with my readers.

Today's Follow Friday featured blogger is Miranda at Not Super...Just Mom. Yes, the same Miranda that introduced me to Twitter. Go figure.

Miranda and I met several years (years?? is that possible?) on a social networking site geared specifically for those trying to conceive and those that already have children. Coincidentally we went through most of our pregnancy together and her ADORABLE son Joshua is just a few weeks younger than Keagan.

I think our friendship was sealed when she said to me in response to my "OMG I just ate three GINORMOUS cookies!" post by saying "Growing a human is hard work and deserves to be rewarded with cookies from time to time. Particularly since we have to give up chardonnay."

Through the past couple of years we've gotten to know eachother in that way that you only seem to do over the internet. While we've never officially *met* I consider her a friend, a mentor and most definitely someone that I would like to polish off a (big) bottle of wine with.

Miranda has a fantastic blog Not Super...Just Mom where she documents the life and times of a full-time teacher, full-time mother, full-time (self described) band geek. She is also one of the first bloggers (and friends) that I read that talks openly about being a PPD survivor, something that many new moms can relate to, even if they don't talk about it.

Please check out Not Super...Just Mom and become a follower. You won't regret it.