Expressiva Nursingwear Review with Giveaway

When you have a baby finding the right nursingwear is important. You want something is pretty but comfortable/ Expressiva Nursingwear has just what you are looking for. They have everything from sleep wear to dresses to bras.

From Expressiva Website:
At Expressiva Nursingwear we design fashionable clothing for breastfeeding mothers. Our goal is to make your nursing experience more enjoyable and more stylish - so that you will feel confident and comfortable breastfeeding for as long as you and your nursling desire. We want you to wear clothes that look hip and cool, but still allow you to breastfeed discreetly. We are determined to make breastfeeding a fashionable experience!

TESTING Expressiva: 

The nursing opening

I was sent the Sweet Dream Drop-Cup Nightgown to review. It is made of 88% cotton and 12% poly with pretty lace trim and a bow. the drop-cup design is to make breast feeding easier. You can open it up with one hand.  On the website there is a customer review that is lees than stellar and I will you that I could not agree LESS with the customer who wrote the review.



She states that she is a 34DD. I am a 38 D and found that I was supported more than enough. What I found is that if you loosen the straps a little more than you normally would you get great coverage and support. The material felt wonderful! This gown has become my favorite. I sleep in it most nights. Edgar likes it as well. He said it is a pretty change from the standard tee and shorts that I use to sleep in.

PROS of Expressiva Nursingwear: 

• A variety of items
• All items are made with mom in mind 
• Stylish and comfortable
• Clothing is comfortable and stylish enough to wear for years after you are done breast feeding.

CONS of Expressiva Nursingwear:

• NONE

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Enter below for your chance to win a $35 Gift Certificate to Expressiva Nursingwear

Ends Oct 19, 2011

My Visitor

For the last few weeks I have had a weekly visitor to my home. She started coming and leaving some pamphlets and then asked if she could do bible study each week with me for about 30 minutes. She is an elderly lady and a little lonely I think. So I told her yes. She is after all harmless and 30 minutes out of my time each week is nothing.

She comes and we read her little book and talk about whatever we are reading. She has never asked me what religion I am or if I even attend a church. I am in NO way criticizing her religion so please no one take it as such. I am merely voicing an opinion. Most of what is written in her little book that we read I can agree with. There is no dispute, etc. The biggest problem I have is that while of course all religions feel theirs is THE religion, some of the things that is said about various religions is a bit offensive.



As you all know I make no excuse or apologies for the fact that I am Roman Catholic. My siblings have chosen other religions and I respect that. What I do not do is criticize their religion in any way. Maybe it is just that I look at the world differently. Yes my religion has had many scandals. It doesn't in any way make the religion itself wrong. Our church leaders are after all merely men, full of faults. We have thousands of years of dogma and traditions that many people don't understand and bringing a religion into this century is a long battle.

The other thing that bothers me is that my version of the bible gets criticized each week. I use a Women's Devotional Bible. It is a modern speech bible that is easy to read and understand. I do have a traditional Catholic Bible as well as a King James version. I simply choose to use a version that I can understand.

I think what she does, going out everyday, is to be commended. I just feel that maybe there are better ways to go about spreading the word. I guess I just feel that my beliefs and thoughts should be taken into consideration but if I try to bring them up I am quickly told that her religion is the only correct religion. What started as an enjoyably weekly visit has become dreaded. I am pressured more and more each to visit her church and change my ways. She tells how her religion accepts all people from all races but she preached to me about my interracial marriage after meeting my children for the first time. I got the age old Zebra reference and told that I was a sinner and my children are, well let's say less than Godly.

Pudim de Abobora

 

 

 

 

 

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month here is a great fall recipe. It's Mexican Pumpkin Custard. I first had it when my mother in-law came to visit. It was so wonderful and now I am trying my hand at it.

 

 

Ingredients

• 1 cup skim milk
• 1/2 cup evaporated skimmed milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup canned or pureed cooked fresh pumpkin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon each ground ginger, salt, and grated orange peel
• 2 teaspoons firmly packed brown sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. ln medium mixing bowl beat together skim milk, evaporated milk, and eggs; add pumpkin, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and orange peel and, using wooden spoon, stir until mixture is thoroughly combined and smooth.
3. Lightly spray four 6-ounce custard cups with nonstick cooking spray; fill each cup with 1/4 of pumpkin mixture.
4. Place cups in 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan and fill pan with boiling water to a depth of about 1 inch; bake until surface of custard is firm, about 30 minutes.
5. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon sugar over each custard and bake 10 to 15 minutes longer (until knife, inserted in center of custard, comes out clean).
6. Remove baking pan from oven and carefully remove cups from water bath (water will be boiling hot); let custard cool, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Flip Flop Wines: Moscato

By now you all know about our love affair with Flip Flop Wines.  If you are not familiar with Flip Flop Wines, allow me to introduce you.

From Flip Flop Wines Site:
While working at an organic vegetable farm in the Mt. Shasta region of California, David discovered the art of grape growing. After planting a small vineyard on the farm, he was fascinated with wine, from managing the vineyard to tasting the fruits of his labor. Inspired to learn more, David attended the University of California at Davis first to study viticulture, and then added  wine making coursework as well. David honed his wine making skills at well-known California wineries including Artesa and Davis Bynum. In 2009, David began working on the wines that would become the inaugural vintage of flip flop. His goal is to stay true to each wine’s varietal character, and to make great tasting wines that don’t break the bank.

TESTING Moscato:

We received the Moscato to try. We were not in any way disappointed. Like all other Flip Flop wines this one was more than we had imagined it to be. It is a light bodies wine that is best served chilled. I love cold wine much better than room temperature. I should say for all those who read my pregnancy posts that I have written: My doctor has told me that the occasional glass of wine will not hurt me or the baby. I don't drink all the time, maybe once a month if that. Now that is out of the way. Flip flop suggests serving the Moscato with Pad Thai, Chinese chicken salad or vegetable curry. We had it with Pozole which is a Mexican soup. It complimented the spiciness if the soup very nicely.


PROS of Flip Flop Wines

• Great price! The wines are less than $10 a bottle
• They don't taste like under $10 wines! They taste like you spent a fortune
• Every purchase helps a good cause

CONS of Flip Flop Wines

• None but please drink responsibly

Shop Flip Flop Wines

You can purchase Flip Flop Wines online or ask your favorite retailer.

Baby Ready

I grew up with the disposable diapers, bleach, and all those other horrible chemicals. I never thought anything about it until the day I got pregnant. That moment changed everything! Now I am all about safe and natural. So to get ready for a new baby that will be sleeping in our bedroom posed a bit of a challenge. I didn’t realize all the harmful things that were already in my room. I went through the entire room which meant more work for my husband, but in the end it will be worth it. The ten biggest things we did were:

1.     Get rid of everything that has lead paint. Our old dresser had been painted several times many years ago. I was fairly certain so of the paint underneath was lead based so hubby sanded down the entire dresser and repainted it with baby safe paint.
2.     Bolt all heavy and/or large objects to the wall. We have a dresser, bookshelf, and more in our room. While the baby won’t be crawling right away I figured it would be better to go ahead and make sure none of these items could be easily turned over. I figure later I will be too busy to even think about this.
3.     Make sure the crib meets all safety guidelines. We are using an older crib which means it had to be inspected and check a million times by me (it’s my OCD.) The other thing is we will NOT be using traditional bumper pads. They block the air flow and raise the chance of SIDS.
4.     No more small objects lying around. Everything that could possibly be picked up by the baby has been removed. There is nothing around the crib that the baby could possibly grab and put in her mouth.
5.     Car seat, stroller, and a million other gadgets. Who knew that one little baby would need so much stuff? The OCD kicked in again which double checking that everything met safety standards.
6.     No chemicals! We have switched to all organic cleaning supplies and other products. I don’t want anything harmful in my home at all.
7.     Talk to the other kids. Preparing our other children was very important, so we took the time to talk with them about the baby. We gave the chance to express their fears, their joys, etc. Also we make a point of spending quality time with each of them so they know they are just as important.
8.     Stock Up! You would not believe the amount of products you have to buy for everyday. So we began stocking up early.
9.     Organic or cloth diapers and wipes ONLY! As part of the no chemical rule we decided to use cloth diapers. That was until I learned about Free and Clear from Seventh Generation, but more about that in a little while.
10.     RELAX!!! The biggest thing was to stop stressing and just relax. Enjoy being pregnant and the moments of peace we have.

Now about those diapers, Seventh Generation has a line of Free and Clear diapers and wipes. What does that mean? It means there are no chemicals such as latex and petroleum-based lotions, no chlorine processing, or no fragrances.  The diapers now have a redesigned core that is more efficient at absorption and uses less processed chlorine free wood pulp. So their impact on the environment is lower. That is a HUGE help for me because as much as I had to admit I am one of those moms that gags at certain smells and sights. I can’t help it and if I am truly honest I wasn’t looking forward to cloth diapers.

Getting pregnant has been a both a stressful and joyful event in our home. I have found that I am more than a little crazy about things. My husband and children are the best in the world and manage to survive all of my “Let’s do this instead” moments.  Knowing that things are done and ready is a huge help and allows me to relax so much more.

I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Seventh Generation blogging program, for a gift card worth $50. For more information on how you can participate, click here.

The Madelaine Chocolate Company Review with Giveaway

CHOCOLATE!!! Honestly what more could a girl say to get your attention? I love chocolate, next to my husband and children it is right up there. Well maybe some days chocolate is a little higher on the list than my hubby but well.... The Madelaine Chocolate Company is a new favorite of mine.

From The Madelaine Chocolate Company Website:
Established in 1949, we’ve dedicated ourselves to perfecting the superior taste and quality of our chocolate. Our belief that everyone should be able to afford great tasting chocolate is what drives our commitment to our customers, and ensures that we never compromise on flavor or quality.

Testing The Madelaine Chocolate Company:

I received two products to try out and, being me, hid them from the hubby and kids. Most chocolate products never make it to the kitchen when they all know about them. In fact I didn't even write it on my receiving log (long story and a lot of therapy.) The first product was Carmel Popcorn. Ahhhhh caramel, popcorn, and milk chocolate. I
cannot begin to tell you how wonderful this was. I only have 1 complaint: the bag was too small. Give me a huge bucket of it and I would have been in 7th heaven! Just look at that picture, doesn't it just make you want to lick your computer screen?

The second product that I got and tested was the Chocolate Malt Balls. These reminded me of the candy my mom use to eat all the time when I was growing up. It took me back to those days of sneaking them out of the box and stuffing as many as I could into my mouth without choking myself to death. These were creamy and the malt part was anything but hard. I always hate when the malt part is so hard you can't bite into it or too chewy. These were perfect.


PROS of Madelaine Chocolate Company:

• Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate...
• Their Duets are a wonderful blend of two flavors wrapped in chocolate.
• They have something for every occassion
• Did I mention Chocolate?

CONS of Madelaine Chocolate Company:

• If there is something wrong with them I can't find it. My mouth was very pleased. My hips not so much but we don't listen to them anyway.

SHOP Madelaine Chocolate Company

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Enter below to win your own treats! 1 lucky reader will get the Milk Chocolate Malt Balls and Carmel Popcorn for themselves (unless they live near me. In that case I am coming over and staking out your house awaiting that delivery!)

ENDS October 10, 2011

A Conversation with Kermit the Frog

KERMIT THE FROG (Kermit the Frog) returns to the big screen in 2011 inDisney’s “The Muppets.” With 56 years in show business, he boasts countlesscredits in television, film, stage and online, including the recent hit viralvideos featuring the Muppets’ take on Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” (2009) and“Ode to Joy” (2008)—both Webby winners (an award very dear to Kermit’s heartand feet). He has been honored with his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame(2002), and his song “Rainbow Connection” was nominated for an Academy Award®and a Golden Globe® in 1979. Kermit has appeared many times in the Macy’sThanksgiving Day Parade. He received the Key to the City from Kermit,Texas, in 2005, and holds an honoraryDoctorate of Amphibious Letters from the SouthamptonCollege at Long Island University.He was the first amphibian to address the prestigious Oxford Union at Oxford University.

Kermit’sfilm credits include “The Muppet Movie” (1979), “The Great Muppet Caper”(1981), “The Muppets Take Manhattan” (1984), “The Muppet Christmas Carol”(1992), “Muppet Treasure Island” (1996) and “Muppets from Space” (1999). He’salso had starring roles in the TV films “Muppets Wizard of Oz” (2005) and “AMuppet Christmas: Letters to Santa.” In addition to hosting and starring in theinternational hit phenomenon “The Muppet Show,” which ran from 1976-1981, Kermit’ssmall-screen credits include “Muppet Babies” and “Muppets Tonight.” He hasappeared on a host of variety shows, including “The Tonight Show with JayLeno,” “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon,” “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson,”“Today” and “Late Night with Conan O’Brian.” Kermit has also been a guest on “ExtremeMakeover: Home Edition” and “Saturday Night Live,” among many others. Kermit’smemoirs—“Look Before You Leap: A Frog’s Eye View of Life’s Greatest Lessons”—werepublished in 2006.

Kermit residesin a swamp, where he maintains a bachelor pad.

A CONVERSATION WITH KERMIT THE FROG…

Why should audiences see Disney’s “The Muppets”?

It’s funny, upbeat and full oflaughs for everyone… frogs, pigs, bears… even people.

For new fans, it’s a chanceto see the Muppets in action on the big screen. And for old fans, it’s a chanceto get together with old friends… and get a little crazy together.

What is Disney’s “The Muppets” about?

Well, it’s the story of thisincredible Muppet fan named Walter who comes to Hollywood to meet us… and endsup having to get all the Muppets back together to put on a show and save MuppetStudios.

I guess it’s the firstMuppet movie that’s really from the point of view of a fan. Jason Segel, who isa really big Muppet fan in real life, co-wrote the movie. He wanted to showwhat it would be like if the world’s biggest Muppet fan—along with his brotherGary (played by Jason) and friend Mary (played by Amy Adams)—came to Hollywood tomeet us.

What is your role in Disney’s “The Muppets”?

I play me, Kermit the Frog.I’ve played other parts, like Bob Crachit in “A Muppet Christmas Carol” andCaptain Smollett in “Muppet Treasure Island,” but I think “me” is my favoritepart.

Playing a frog named Kermit mightbe type casting, but there aren’t a lot of great parts for amphibians, so I washappy to get the part.

In the movie—and in life,really—I’m a humble frog in Hollywoodwho wants to get back together with his friends and keep entertaining people.  

How does your life differ from the characters youplay in the films?

Well, on the big screen. I’m16 feet tall. But in real life, it’s closer to 18 inches. So, I’d have to saythe biggest difference is more height—and better lighting.

Seriously, though, my lifeon screen and off screen is about the same. In real life and on film, I’msurrounded by chaos, craziness, and romantic pigs—just like any other Hollywood star.

Why did you want to take part in this film?

I understand they consideredother actors—George Clooney, Tom Hanks. But in the end, when it comes toplaying short, green and amphibious, I’m still Hollywood’s go-to guy. According to directorJames Bobin, when I read for the role of “me,” I nailed it.

What is the funniest scene in the film?

I like the scene whereeverything goes crazy and no one knows what to do. It’s total mad chaos…..Hmm,come to think of it, that describes most of the movie.

I can’t pick JUST one scene—allthe other scenes would get jealous. But I really do like the big finale. Lotsof singing, dancing, laughing… and, I don’t want to spoil it, but it’s happy,too.

What was it like working opposite Jason Segel?

Jason is not only a greatcomedian, but as a co-writer of the movie, he’s great to work with. If youforget your lines, he can make up new ones.

Jason’s a swell guy. Hereally loved the Muppets before we worked together…and he still loves us after.That’s a true fan. And he has such a fantastic sense of humor. He can findfunny everywhere… even in Fozzie’s act.

…Chris Cooper?

Chris plays the villain, TexRichman, yet he’s really the nicest guy you’ll ever meet. That’s an incrediblefeat: being a good guy and playing a bad guy. When it comes to acting, it’s notthat easy being mean.

…Amy Adams?

Amy is incredible. She’s sobeautiful and talented and funny. I’d love to make every movie with her…. butMiss Piggy won’t let me.

She’s also a great actress: shecan sing and dance, and she has three Academy Award® nominations. I’m hopingshe gets an Oscar® for Disney’s “The Muppets.” If not, I’m willing to paintmyself gold and stand on her mantle.

…Miss Piggy?

I have to say: working withMiss Piggy is always a pleasure. I have to say that ‘cause she makes me say it.

This was a different kind ofmovie for us. Normally, Piggy and I are together right from the start. But in Disney’s“The Muppets,” Miss Piggy is over in Parisand we have to go get her. That was challenging for me. France is toughfor frogs… with legs.

What’s the deal with you and Miss Piggy? Are youstill together?

Miss Piggy and I have aprofessional relationship. I think we’re professionals; she thinks we’re in arelationship.

Actually, Miss Piggy and Iare good friends, but just friends. We like each other a great deal, but we arenot romantically involved—despite her best efforts.

Describe director James Bobin.

James has a quirky sense ofhumor. Just watch his work on “Flight of the Conchords” and you can see thisisn’t someone who sees the world like everyone else. Not being normal helpswhen you work with the Muppets. He’s a consummate professional—and we’re not,so we really needed him.

What is your advice for up-and-coming frogs/actors?

Never say croak.

To make a rainbow connectionwith Kermit the Frog, check out http://disney.go.com/muppets/portfolio/kermit/videos.html.

ABOUT THE MOVIE

On vacationin Los Angeles, Walter, the world's biggest Muppet fan, his brother Gary (JasonSegel) and Gary’s girlfriend Mary (Amy Adams) from Smalltown, USA, discover thenefarious plan of oilman Tex Richman (Chris Cooper) to raze the Muppet Theaterand drill for the oil recently discovered beneath the Muppets' former stompinggrounds. To stage a telethon and raise the $10 million needed to save thetheater, Walter, Mary and Gary help Kermit reunite the Muppets, who have allgone their separate ways: Fozzie now performs with a Reno casino tribute bandcalled the Moopets, Miss Piggy is a plus-size fashion editor at Vogue Paris,Animal is in a Santa Barbara clinic for anger management, and Gonzo is ahigh-powered plumbing magnate. With secret, signature, celebrity cameos,Disney’s “The Muppets” hits the big screen Nov. 23, 2011.