Letter to my son...

Every day you impress me. I think you are the smartest, most loving and beautiful baby ever. I thought the same thing about your sister at this age but she was not a terrorist, not as fearless or crazy as you. I think your mission in life is to scare the crap out of me in between being madly in love with every moment...every new step you take or new thing you do.
I can't help but laugh that you are attacking Huxley right now. I didn't think it was funny when you stood on the edge of the couch. But it impressed me. I think it is hilarious that you have the most exaggerated "squinty face" right before you pretend to cry. My favorite moments are when you grab my face with both hands and kiss me. How did I get so lucky?

Christmas at our house

The best part about having kids is introducing them to new things. I love how excited they get about trying a new food or seeing something for the first time. I tried to explain the whole Santa Claus this. I am still not sure if they get it. Every morning we turn on our christmas tree and garlands and listen to Michael Buble's christmas CD.

We made salt dough ornaments. They loved decorating the tree.
I doubled the original recipe. I needed lots of dough to do hand prints and ornaments.

1 Cups Salt
2 Cups Flour
1 Cups of Water

I put everything in my kitchenaid with the hook attachment for kneading. It was making my mixer work a little too hard (now I know I need the more powerful one) I set the timer for 25 minutes. At 16 minutes I got a little impatient. I did add some cinnamon to the mix just to make them smell good. Its important to knead it this much. Otherwise your dough is lumpy.

I rolled them out and used the collection of cookie cutters from my Grandma. One box said noah's ark. I got the pig and fish cutter from there. I didn't have a biscuit cutter so I used the rim of one of my magic bullet cups to cut circles.


2 hours at 250 degrees. I let them cool completely and then started decorating. I used puffy paint (not ideal but I just inherited a LOT of it). I used mod podge and glitter on the other ones. Hand prints are harder to make than it looks.
I hope you make these with your kids. They make great gifts and gift tags on packages.

Front Door Makeover

There is something not so friendly about a security door. This is not to say I don't appreciate that my front door says "stay out" I want to deliver the message with warmth. I have been dying to change up the front door. Naturally I wanted to replace it with the same door from our other house but for the sake of saving money so I can spend it on the girls' bedroom makeover I painted it!
3 cans of spray paint is all you need. It just barely does both sides. I chose a charcoal bronze. I picked up the wreath from Joann Fabrics, made the burlap bow myself. The new Mat was from Home Depot as well as the pre lit miniature tree. It makes a big difference to feel welcomed when you come home. Every time I pull up in the driveway I love the new look!

Worst Blogger Ever

If I had the time to blog everyday I could I finished a book. I wish I could have shared my daily happenings. Where has the last 6 months gone? My son is pulling himself up on everything. He is a mountain man, I mean really like a billy goat he can scale anything. I got video of him pulling himself up and then side stepping. Everything he does amazes me.
LOTS has happened in the last 6 weeks. I have overcome some major challenges for me. My friends wouldn't believe that I am terrified of public speaking. They would say I am outgoing and I can make friends anywhere. Truly I am scared to death of speaking in front of crowds. I couldn't be successful working for a small radio station in Sacramento. They had these meetings where we would get called on in front of our peers to do our "30 second elevator pitch". I would get sweaty and almost pass out. I literally bailed to the ladies room once to throw up because I couldn't handle the pressure.
I just started offering free bootcamps. I was completely out of my element. The type of training I offer is tailored to just one person. Its a very intimate process to learn how each client responds to training. What they need on an individual basis. I never give the same session twice. So throw my m.o. in a blender, add 8 or more women and say go. Now I have different personalities, different needs, different skill levels all with a common goal. Then you have to factor in that I am a perfectionist. I am looking for proper form, posture correction and muscle activation. I feel like an octopus. Did I mention I am terrified of public speaking. When I am training I am in my element. Somehow I psych myself up before a bootcamp and then I don't panic once I get started. If anything the hour flies by and I feel like I didn't cram enough in.
I am surprised so many people have issues with FREE stuff. Like they seriously think it can't be true so therefor they don't participate. Do you call that fear? Its Free people just show up, I dare you. The bootcamps have been awesome. All the women are incredibly supportive. I just want to share with everyone my knowledge. I want to give them an education so they can help themselves. Everyone should know how easy it is to obtain health. It isn't a mystery. Unfortunately there is something very wrong with the general public's perception of weightloss, exercise and nutrition. I hate seeing people struggle and doing it the hard way. Especially people who are heavy and ill and their condition could lead them to death.
The New Englund Medical Journal published a study from 2005 that states our children's generation will not outlive their parents. 22 Million children are facing childhood obesity. This means the risk of heart disease and type II Diabetes will be inevitable. These diseases are preventable. I am not going to bury my children. Its not happening. I feel like one of the luckiest people in the world to know about how easy it is to balance your pH. Why it isn't common knowledge, I don't know. I plan on youtubing my kids getting their pH tested in the morning. As well as them having their 7.2 shake and greens. I want more people to know that they are responsible for what their children eat.

Totally pooped!

I am sitting on the lounger part of my new sofa. It has been my go to spot to "work" close by I have an outlet, computer charger, phone charger, drink holder, window seat for my purse...what else could I need? My babies are sleeping. Did I mention I never thought I would own another sectional. And yet I bought one. It isnt't the gorgeous furniture my sense of style desires but it is comfortable, functional and "handsome". I would give a shout out about the company I purchased it from but I never even got a follow up call from my salesperson. I find that strange.

Today I went to San Clemente to do hair and makeup for a wedding. 4 Bridesmaids, 1 Bride and a Flower Girl. It was a long day. All the girls looked gorgeous. I can't wait to see pictures of them in their dresses. Many thanks to Holly for referring her Sister In Law to me! Ketmanee did a beautiful job and I hope she will be a great asset to the Bombshell team in the future. Katie I miss you! I hope you are enjoying Russia.

I found an awesome little children's consignment boutique. I got my son a ton of cute clothes for 6-9 month sizes and a hat to cover his fair skin. I found the girls a couple dresses and a gift for Courtney's new baby Anthony.

My trip to San Clemente was great. It was nice to walk around...I looked for the shop I bought my dream office furniture from and it is no longer there :( I did find a Gluten Free store and they had everything i needed to make more protein bars.

I treated my dogs to braided vanilla rawhide bones from Three Dog Bakery. LOVE that place!

My new FAVORITE-CAN'T-LIVE-WITHOUT product is Arbonne's Primer its to DIE for.
As my smashbox photo finish primer sits almost empty...I smile that it has an impressive successor. Its huge and only $36 (or less if you want a discount). It is the ingredient that promises your foundation will do a magnificent job and you will have flawless looking skin.

I made my own protein bars

snacks for kids are pricey! For the most part I try to buy things in bulk however my friend Lory shared this recipe with me. She said her kids asked for the bars every day and now my girls are OBSESSED with them. Its a no bake easy recipe that you can make together. I am already experimenting with different variations. Read below for my Cranberry Almond Bars!

Protein Bar Recipe

Ingredients:

2 cups or 1 (16oz.) jar – Organic Peanut Butter*

1 ¾ cups – Organic Honey*

2 cups – Arbonne Fit Essential Chocolate Protein Powder* (call or email me if you don't already have this handy Sara 619.694.7275 bombshellbrides@gmail.com)

¼ cup – Arbonne Daily Fiber Boost (optional)

3 cups – Uncooked Dry Oatmeal*

*Organic Peanut Butter can be replaced with Organic Almond Butter

*Organic Honey can be replaced with Agave Nectar

*Chocolate Protein Powder can be replace with Vanilla Protein Powder

*Oats can be replaced with puffed rice (or gulten-free “rice krispies”)



In a microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter and honey, heat in microwave for 70-90 seconds, until it easily stirs. Add protein powder and oatmeal and mix thoroughly. It will be thick. Press into a 9 by 16 inch pan. Refrigerate 1 hour, or until solid enough to cut into bars. Wrap each bar in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. You can also take 1 serving and cut it up into protein bar bites and put them in the snack size baggies that you can use throughout the day for a healthy snack.



Makes 24 servings: calories 240, fat 9 grams, protein 13 grams, carbs 24 grams, sodium 98 mg., fiber 3 grams, sugar 15 grams. Arbonne’s Protein Powder is Vegan Certified; includes coQ10, Alfalfa, Ginseng, and Flaxseed. The protein source is pea, rice and cranberry protein. Each serving of our protein powder includes 20 grams of protein plus over 20 essential vitamins and minerals.

CRANBERRY ALMOND BARS

Ingredients:

2 cups or 1 (16oz.) jar – Organic Almond Butter

1 ¾ cups – Organic Honey*

2 cups – Arbonne Fit Essential VANILLA Protein Powder

¼ cup – Arbonne Daily Fiber Boost (optional)

3 cups – Gluten Free Puffed Rice (found it at Henry's/Whole Foods/Sprouts)

Handful of Unsalted Almonds chopped up in food processor till powdery

Dried Cranberries to top the pan


*Organic Honey can be replaced with Agave Nectar


*Oats can replace puffed rice (or gulten-free “rice krispies”)



In a microwave-safe bowl, combine almond butter and honey OR agave, heat in microwave for 70-90 seconds, until it easily stirs. Pour into Kitchenaid with whisk attachment. Add protein powder and puffed rice and mix thoroughly on low speed. It will be thick. Press into a 9 by 16 inch pan, I used freezer paper to line the pan and tore off a sheet to use on top to press it evenly (no sticky fingers) after it was even I topped with dried cranberries and sprinkled the food processed almonds last. Refrigerate 1 hour, or until solid enough to cut into bars. Wrap each bar in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. You can also take 1 serving and cut it up into protein bar bites and put them in the snack size baggies that you can use throughout the day for a healthy snack.

Day 12

So much has happened in the last week and a half. I am sorry I couldn't document daily happenings. Honestly by the time I am in bed giving the baby a bottle while holding my eyelids open with toothpicks I am too tired to even pick up my laptop. Even now after three lines I have to go change mr handsome and lay the girls back down. Yesterday I threw Courtney a baby shower. She is due in August and she's having a boy! Cassie and I did an amazing job putting the party together. I couldn't have done it without her. We had tons of food, games and a jumpee. I wore the baby in the sleepy wrap most of the day. It was my mom's last day here. I got a thousand compliments on the girls.




By the end one of the guests picked up the girls jokingly and said say bye bye! You are so cute I am taking you home with me. The girls got huge pouty faces. It wasn't a funny joke. I said you can't leave me-I would miss you too much!
I am waiting for my Happy Heiny's diapers to show up. The Sweet Peas are in the wash. Nap time is my favorite time. Its like my rush hour to de funk the house of bottles and laundry and the plethora of toys. If only all three could be on the same schedule.
Today they had turkey lavosh rolls and salmon patties for lunch. They kept saying NUMMY! They loved it. Its hard to give them a meal and they love all of it. Yesterday they say cake and cookies and they wouldn't eat anything until they had some treats. For breakfast we had hard boiled eggs, poppy seed bundt cake and fruit in bed. Soon after I tried vacuuming the cake crumbs. After that was an epic fail I changed the sheets. Nap time #2 was hard they were so tired they were torturing each other. Huxley likes to pinch her sister. In their rooms they crawl out of bed and play. So I had to separate them. They were instantly asleep.
Initially when they first came I was afraid of them being sad. I wanted them to be happy so badly I let them call the shots. I realized after a week I am the boss. I know now that they need a lot of structure. The meltdowns are few and far between. We still talk about their foster family in Chicago. We look at pictures, talk about them, include them in our prayers. I know I am incredibly lucky and so are the girls to have an entire family like theirs that love them so much. I hope that more kids in transition can have the experience we have had. I don't think we could have done it better.

The Birth Of My Crazy Coupon Obsession...

Some of you may have read my post on becoming an extreme coupon queen. Well I never say I am going to do something without doing it. I have spent about 5 hours researching it. Here is what I came up with.

Sign up to receive local newspaper (all the good coupons come on Sunday) if you want to get crazy ask friends/neighbors/coworkers for their Sunday inserts. If you want to get extra crazy... you can dumpster dive.

I am not going to lie. I have been dumpster diving. Some of you may find this funny. But Toby Casey's mom Sarah took me and I had a freekin' blast. Mind you I lived in Bridgeville... So it wasn't too crazy for the locals but when I came home and told my mom "we went to the dump and look at all this cool stuff I found" she gave me a funny look. I was like 11 I had no shame then. Sorry...I got side tracked. Back to the plan.

So I signed up for the paper. www.northcountytimes.com 7 bucks for a thursday-sunday subscription.

Next I signed up for a list. Now this I will keep a secret. If you want the list email me and I will invite you. You get 4 weeks FREE. no scam :)

The list is cool. It basically knows all your local stores, what's on sale, where the coupon is and if you can double up to not only save but get products for free. This I am diggin'.

Thirdly get organized. I am going to get some clear plastic sheet protectors like the ones used for baseball cards.

Make room for your stash. My pantry is so crammed already. The only solution is to make room elsewhere like the garage. SO... I will have to put anything vulnerable to mice in plastic containers. Good thing I have a good stash of those.

Check out this website if you want to get started. I love it! Great tips, step by step guide and its clever http://thekrazycouponlady.com/beginners/.

Have I mentioned the babies are coming THURSDAY. OMG. I have SO much to do.

I can almost count the hours!

Today was a successful day. I did hair and makeup for a bride and 4 of her wedding party. They looked amazing. I did some of my best work. The hardest part was knowing the bride is a cosmetologist herself. We are the pickiest! Afterwards I went to La Salsa with "my twin" we inhaled dinner. We were STARVING. On the way back to our cars I caught a glimpse of my bride walking with her prince charming to the beach, wedding party in tow. It was really special to see them on their way to happily ever after. I love weddings. I love LOVE. <-stolen from Heidi Thank you Michelle for letting me be a part of your big day. You were stunning in your dress.

Yesterday was a butt kicking day too. The kitchen cabinets finally got off the floor. I only need to do the antique detail and I can say they are done. Next time I think my cabinets are ugly I will buy new ones. This project sucked. Hanging them back up was an awful experience. They were crooked to start and that is just against my religion. I did however hang them so the close properly. So they are crooked in the right places. Whatever.

I got my first Mother's Day card. From my own mom. It was a little premature but incredibly thoughtful.

Tonight is technically my last chance for a "last hurrah" but..I am so tired I might just stay home. My entire body hurts. Tomorrow I am up early. Training Janet. Gonna make her mother's day rock with a kick butt training session.

8 Days Left

Last night I went to my P.R.I.D.E. Class I had to makeup session 9 and I attended the class in Balboa. It was a big group. We had a potluck. There were guest speakers. It was nice to be in a room with all new faces. One of the guest speakers was Pam. She founded the Birth Parent Association. She has worked for various groups over the years and created something that people needed and wasn't offered. She is my kind of gal.

Pam told us the story of Misty and Misty's son Trevor. Misty was addicted to crystal meth. She talked about what meth does to a person. The kind of parent Misty was as well as the conditions Trevor lived in. The story was horrific. She asked our group how we felt about Misty. People said disgusted, appalled, sad, angry, etc. She talked about Misty almost dying and going into a treatment facility, jumping through hoops to get her son back as well as getting clean, getting a job, getting an education. Pam showed us pictures of Misty with patchy hair and sores on her arm sitting on a mattress next to her son in just a diaper. She showed us pictures later of a much healthier Misty in a wedding dress with a tan and pearly white teeth. She showed us pictures with her family, her husband and her two sons (trevor and another boy they took in). The last picture was a woman at the beach with glasses on and a humble smile. And then I realized it was her. Pam was Misty. Pam had shared the story of her being a meth addict, neglecting her son Trevor and the path she had to take to fix her life. I was "rocked". It was a crazy feeling sitting in the room full of people with their mouths hanging open.

At the end of our class we had a candle ceremony. Everyone made a big circle and we passed around a candle. Everyone said who their candle was for. Many said "for the children at Polinsky Center" (children waiting for families), "my candle is for my sister I hope she can clean up her act and get my nephew back", "my candle is for all the foster families waiting for children". When it came my turn I said "my candle is for the foster mom who has been loving my two nieces and nephew for almost a year, next week wont be easy when they come to live with me". I could barely get out the words. The entire room seemed very emotional. Everyone there was so genuine in their selflessness to take on being a foster parent. I emailed Pam today offering to volunteer for her organization.

Tonight I am going to see my friend Corey. She has gathered up stuff from her kids and her friends kids for my kids! I still have to track down some random stuff. It's ok I have 8 days to get it done. :)

Countdown....9 Days Left

I have just 9 days to run around like a maniac. I know I have to appreciate that is takes me 8 minutes to roll out of the door at a moments notice or that I can run all my errands in just an hour. I will have to start utilizing paypal shipping instead of going to the post office. Standing in line won't be the same with my posse. Training the dogs to walk on a leash with a stroller should be fun. I contemplated practicing with an empty stroller...I can't bring myself to try it. That would just look silly. I already want to change their room. Subdued pinks and greens seem so boring in comparison to bright pink and orange. I experienced acid reflux for the first time yesterday. Lemme tell you-its no joke.

I am going to go grocery shopping on Wednesday. I have no idea what I am going to stock up on yet, I need one of those plastic popsicle forms. I loved filling them up with juice and making popsicles. There has to be a good book on healthy "fun" food.

Prayers Answered

This morning around 9:30 am I got a text message that the judge ordered all three kids to be transferred to me. Within 6 seconds tears uncontrollably rolled down my cheeks. I have been waiting for that moment for so long I thought it would never come. My whole life has felt like its been on hold. I don't know what I can do an month from now or two months from now.

Today I know-two weeks or less from now I will have little people to match all my little furniture. My days will be spent playing in a sandbox and blowing bubbles and cutting up food into little pieces. Knowing this-I don't need anything else to be happy.

In the building of Muffin Butts as a business I have found difficulty finding manufacturers accepting my applications when I don't have a retail store. My vision for what my business will be is so different its hard to compare to another business. I believe you build lifelong relationships when you are able to educate someone. When you can teach someone something new. They will remember you forever. I want to write a book when I am done. I wonder who will read it, who will benefit from it and if it will change someone's life. Today Antoniette a rep from a baby wearing company told me what I am doing is amazing and powerful and I will be able to help new moms and change their life with free education. I can't wait. That is what I want. I want to provide a good life for Bergie, for Huxley and their brother. I want to share what we have with the world. It won't be easy but it will be worth it.

Ready for the ride on the roller coaster to end...Can I Get A Prayer?

I've never liked roller coasters. My uncle Art made me go on one at Disney Land. Wendy made me go on one at the fair. It was horrible. I was dizzy for a week. The roller coaster I have been on is an emotional one. I cannot compare it to many things. The place in my heart where the kids belong is huge. It takes up the whole thing. Every minute of every day I spend thinking of them and preparing for them to live here. Some days the entire day is phone calls and emails to cover all the bases-to make sure no one "drops the ball" and delays the process of the kids transferring to me.

Tomorrow is court. What the purpose of the court date is unknown. I have talked to three key people and they gave me completely different answers. Half the important people I know are on vacation. I am frustrated. I am angry that it is taking so long to complete something that seems so simple. Last week the word was positive everything was looking upbeat and heading in the right direction. I got all kinds of calls from decision makers saying positive things. Today it could take another 6 weeks to get the kids here. 6 weeks? Really? Is it really going to take a act of congress to make this happen?

I need prayers and a lot of them. I don't want to wait another 6 weeks. Another 6 weeks of missing out on them will kill me. Sheets should be washed because they are slept in not dusty. They will be grown out of the clothes I have if it takes any longer! They will be potty trained! They could have full vocabularies! Bureaucracy is stealing away our precious time together.

Tomorrow the judge will have all the necessary documentation to give her peace of mind that I have a suitable home to provide them. And then she will say the word so we can make our trip. I was thinking our big "family day" would be in the next 2 weeks. (praying)

Muffin Butts Opens For Business

Today was exciting. Our online storefront opened its doors! It was even more exciting to fill the first orders. I couldn't have done it without the input from my friends. Snow, Jinny & Hillary you ladies ROCK.

Once the slings, carriers and cloth diapers get stocked in we will plan our first huge giveaway. Everyone likes giveaways right?? www.muffinbutts.com "Like Us" and please share us on facebook! $2.00 shipping on as many baby leg warmers as your heart desires. Check it out. Tell me what you think. What would you like to see us offer?

How I Am SAVING Money

I have spent a lot of time anticipating there will be some major changes in my budget when I get the kids. Already my priorities have changed. I actually walked by Coach shoes at Marshall's that I have been waiting for. They were 45 bucks....I walked....slowly away. I was on the phone with my grandma. Grandma-they have these beautiful coach wedges and I am not buying them! Here are some things I have done to spend less and save more.

I haven't spent any money on clothes since I started CAbi. I get a new wardrobe twice a year and it pays for itself and then some. If you have questions about how CAbi works email me.

I gave up my Verizon phone for a Boost blackberry. My bill has been $130+ per month

The phone was $199 bucks (they have cheaper phones)

I saved $20 by purchasing it at Best Buy-they price matched Radio Shack's $179

Monthly my bill is 60 bucks AFTER TAXES (they have cheaper plans for non blackberry phones

and the best part-they longer you keep your phone the cheaper it gets. They discount your monthly bill in $5 dollar increments. Check out their "shrinkage" plan.

You don't have to worry about quality of service. Sprint owns Boost. www.boostmobile.com

other companies like boost are MetroPCS and Cricket Wireless.

Give up cable and check out Netflix. I also love watching TV for free on www.abc.com bravotv.com also has some shows online. You can purchase a cord to hook your computer to your HDMI on your TV.

Check out your local Community Serviced Agriculture. CSA's are amazing. Basically instead of going to the grocery store you can purchase a box of fresh fruit and veggies. You can locate the closest pick up spot here http://www.localharvest.org/csa/ If you don't think you can consume an entire box-don't get the small one-find someone to share the large one with. This will also help encourage your family to try new things. If you don't know what to do with the vegetable go to www.recipes.com plug in the vegetable and out shoots 1,000 ideas on what to do with it.

How many buns do you have to diaper? The average baby will use 6,000 diapers from birth to potty training. That is a GRIP of cash not to mention not a good impact on our earth. Consider cloth diapering-if you don't know someone who is currently into cloth diapering at least research it. There are SO many options available. They are cute, they don't leak, inexpensive, you'll have less chance of diaper rash and reusable for your next baby. When they are expired use them to wash cars and clean tools.

a happy baby=a happy mom

Deciding To Not Pursue A Career Is Not Failure...It's The Path To Success

For the last few months I have worked diligently to get licensed to run a day care. The idea came as really the only thing I could do to support 3 kids and stay home with them full time. After attending orientation, researching the competition, putting myself out there to work for my first family-I determined this is the wrong path for me. The local competition is unlicensed, their rates are ridiculously cheap and it seems the families in my area are not looking for top notch care-they are looking for a daily rate of $20. If I am licensed and restricted to caring for only 1 infant/2 kids over 2 beyond my own-it really limits my options.

I need flexibility. I need more freedom. I need to make use of my best talents. I am not disappointed that I have changed my mind. I am more pleased that I determined this is not the best thing for me before I have invested a substantial amount of time and money. I need a sustainable business with room for growth that won't be affected by where I live or store hours or the weather.

We tend to like the things our friends like. We tend to be parents like the type of parents our friends are. Our kids tend to participate in the activities that our friend's children are in. I took a look at my friends. I am lucky to have talented, creative friends-their kids are in swimming. They are pimping the cutest cloth diapers, baby wearing gear and they aren't afraid of taking advantage of online steals, coupons and second hand finds. I want to follow in their footsteps.

The thing I want to pioneer-a business of my own, One I can share the wealth with my fellow moms. I want to utilize their creativity, their creations, their wisdom. I am excited to start something brilliant. I am just a few weeks away from being able to launch. Your suggestions are greatly appreciated. Please let me know which products you CAN'T live without and which brands you have found to be the best.

I am looking for .....product testers, collaborators, handmade original products, natural baby/mama products and forum junkies.

I Get More Excited As They Get Closer To Coming Home...

I have to say it is hard to contain myself as the days go by. Today I bought beautiful dresses for the girls for our "picture day" I am dreaming of pictures on the beach with fresh flowers and sunshine and bare feet. I bought the cutest matching blue bathing suits with little flowers.
The highlight of today was my client's daughter passing on beloved barbie sleeping bags, stuffed animals, beach towels, fleece blankets and barbie sheets. I can't wait to get them home. I see forts made of pillows and blankets and story time and blowing bubbles in our future.
A week from Friday I have an inspection for foster licensing. A little work to be done between now and then. The ICPC inspection needs to be scheduled next.
My grandma Connie offered to pass down her matching twin beds to us (in the future). They are so pretty-white wicker. They beds were in the room where my brother and I slept when we came to visit. They are special. I keep saying their room is almost done. I just need a rug, hang the pictures and hang their names on the wall. Who knew wooden letters were SO pricey? It's not like I am going to find something pre-made for them ;)

How To Be A Foster Parent In San Diego CA

I did a lot of research when I decided I wanted to become a licensed Foster Parent. I stayed up late googling all the resources. Here is your Step-By-Step Plan on getting licensed.

Can I Be A Foster Parent?

Eligibility Requirements

1. Be at least 21 years old Single or Married.
   
2. Live in at least a two bedroom home/apartment with a separate room available for foster children placed in your care
3. Have available an adequate source of income that is verifiable by our agency
4. Attend a SDYS Foster Care Orientation (I suggest the TCB Orientation)
   
5. Complete a Foster Parent Application
6. Complete a CPR and First Aid Certification
7. Obtain a Finger Print Background Clearances*
8. Receive a Health Screening/TB Test
9. Verify a good DMV/Driving License Report
10. Attend training classes
11. Work with SDYS staff as a team in to improve the lives of Foster Children

Step 1:
Attend Orientation I suggest the "Take Care Of Business" Orientation They only offer a few of these.
(TCB) days will be 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday 02/12/2011 and 06/11/2011.
8965 Balboa Avenue San Diego, CA 92123
You must register to attend by calling the Kidsline at 1-877-792-5437.

Visit http://www.co.san-diego.ca.us/hhsa/programs/cs/foster_care_licensing/foster_home_licensing_orientation.html for future schedules.

Why do the Take Care Of Business orientation? This is the best option to get everything handled in one day. Save Gas, Save Time (if you are dead serious about doing it-Complete your Application AT orientation)
They will send you for your TB Test and LiveScan on the Spot. After lunch (they even feed you) you take a First Aid and CPR Class. There is NO CHARGE.
**Make sure in your Application you provide them with good references. 3 people with names, addresses and phone numbers. They will mail them a questionnaire that needs to be returned promptly. So if your best friend is in Hawaii (mine was) pick someone else.

Step 2:
After you submit your application at TCB Orientation you have 10 days to complete the rest.
You have to mail in your "Criminal History" form. Basically you give them permission to check you and anyone over the age of 18 who lives in your home. Ask for enough of these forms at orientation to cover you and all family members/roommates (even your children) over 18.
Step 3:
Within 2 days you have to go down to Ruffage Rd near the same building to have your TB Test Read. It takes a few minutes...no big deal.

Step 4: Sign up for P.R.I.D.E Classes I took my classes in San Marcos at Straight From The Heart on San Marcos BLVD. They were 6-9pm Mondays and Wednesday. To register and find the location and times that will work best for you call 1-800-200-1222.

Pride classes are you going to teach you a lot about kids in foster care, where they come from, the kinds of issues you may face, how to prepare your family for a new addition, how to help foster children cope with a transition into your home. You will meet great people like yourself that want to offer their home to a foster child. Do yourself a favor and seek out the foster parent support groups available and consider joining the Foster Parent Association.

Foster Parents Receive...

• A monthly reimbursement for food, shelter, clothing, and recreation for each child.
• Medical and dental coverage for each foster child through the Medi-Cal program.
• On-going training to enhance their knowledge and skills so they can provide the best possible care to meet the unique needs of foster children.
• Support and supervision from agency workers.
• The satisfaction of knowing they have reached out a helping hand to children when it was so desperately needed.
• The reward of knowing there is something of themselves remaining with every child long after they have left the home.
• The knowledge their own lives have been enriched in some way by each child.

Also note...the application will be for FOSTER AND ADOPTION. You may be thinking...I only want to be a foster parent. The reality is... 50% of adoptions are Foster Parents. If you change your mind when you fall in love with a child and you want to keep them forever...you will want to make the transition smooth and fast. Doing both applications up front is a small insurance policy. There are no fees for doing both applications. You will save time and save our government some money.

After your application is sent in with your appropriate extras you will be assigned a social worker. All of the social workers I met at Orientation were AWESOME. They love their job and appreciate new applicants for Foster/Adoption. Your Social Worker will visit your home. It is important you are prepared before they get there. It is not necessarily all about baby proofing with drawer and cupboard locks on everything. It is about creating a safe environment.
Are your cleaning products in a locked cabinet and or out of reach?
Are your medications secure?
If you are a gun owner do you have a trigger lock and is your ammunition stored in a lock case/cabinet separate from your weapons?
Does your pool have the appropriate fencing?
Does your Spa have a locking cover?
Do you have Smoke detectors?

At Orientation you will be provided with a list of all the things you need to consider to be ready for the visit from your social worker.

I hope this helps you on the path to finding a child or sibling group to make a part of your family.

Building A House With Love

The not-so-fun part of baby proofing is almost over. I can say just installing night lights make a huge difference in the feel of our house! It's so much more comforting to come home to dimly lit halls! The security on the doors are installed, cleaning products locked up and their room is almost furnished. I cannot wait to post pictures. I did some weeding, made a pasta salad, picked fresh tangerines and lemons. The TRX mount got installed in my studio. I had a great training session and I can't wait to break the TRX in.

I picked out the paint for the living room. I found my "inspiration picture" in Better Homes and Gardens. I wrote thank you cards for all the wonderful baby things my friends have passed on to me and the few things from the registry at Target.

Longest Day Ever

Today was LONG. My day didn't even start until really 2pm. The morning and afternoon was spent on the phone. Making important phone calls, covering all the bases...making sure no one drops the ball to delay the kids getting here.

I trained a new client today. I am really excited for her. Every time I meet someone new who is committed to changing their lifestyle...it brings new life to me. I get excited all over again about what I do.

My business cards came today for the day care. I cannot wait to bedazzle them! If you know me...you know I am obsessed with crystals on my business cards I make myself.

I bought gas. 72 bucks for 20 gal (I had a very empty tank). I picked up pictures at Costco. I had pictures printed for my cousin Jess and I had enlargements made of old pics of Bergie. I did them in black and white for her bedroom. I can't wait for them to get here. We have SO many pictures to take. Huxley of course has to have her pic taken in the chair in the backyard-it is a tradition. You know what is great about being a grown up? You can just make stuff up. Oh ya...this is our "tradition". Ha. I love it.

I cannot help but go full guns on the kitchen. Its like the kitchen cabinets are so ugly I want to exit the kitchen as soon as possible. The paint sat in my truck for an entire day before I went nuts. I probably look like someone with ADD. It is hard for me to finish one step before I start the next. So... All the cabinets are not off yet, most of the walls are done. 92% of the primer on the cabinets are done. Still have to take care of hardware (boo). But it already looks SO much better. I was worried the colors I chose would be horrible.

I went to the grocery store at 11:40pm. Who does that? Albertson's closes at midnight. They had already put most of the food to bed so it was hard to grab everything I needed. I made a point to ask about coupons. One way or another I am going to learn how to be an awesome coupons user. Now is a good time to start.

cleaning is necessary...finding treasures makes it FUN!

On Sunday I unpacked a lot of stuff. We found a couple boxes of Christmas stuff. One box I swear I have never seen before. It had nautical stuff like a little lighthouse and three fish on a rope (perfect for the new bathroom). So either I forgot to send someone a thank you letter for these gifts or....they came with the house. Christmas will be HUGE this year. I mean disgustingly HUGE. I already have one santa, a few ornaments and some lights... The plotting has only begun.


Bathroom Before & Afters
we still need towel racks ;)


does anyone recognize the lighthouse and fish?

I woke up a little after 3 am this morning. Made the drive to Imperial Beach and I was home by 5:55am


Nikki is coming over later... hopefully she is bringing her magic with her. I have lots to do around here.

Christine and Steve Haslet gave us a gift card to Babies R Us! Steve married Josh and I in Coronado and his wife did my flowers and pictures. They own www.elopesandiego.com and are always rescuing dogs from shelters and finding them forever homes. I love them! Thank you SOOOO much. I know this will come in handy. I am still acquiring stuff and I plan to not purchase anything until I figure out what I don't have and prioritize what I absolutely need.

I had my parenting class again last night after I met with a new personal training client. In class we learned about grieving loss. The loss a birth mother feels, a foster parent feels and the loss a child feels. It was very real to be in that room and have mixed emotions on all sides. Our teacher was a social worker. She demonstrated a story using people in our class to represent characters in the story. Hearing the story and having a person to attach the feelings to made the message so much stronger. People who represented the characters were visibly moved by the story. This was a "downer" class. Another instructor emphasized that there are a lot of tough moments... but the benefits of the outcome make it all worth it.

I will never have any regrets.

Big UPDATE

So much has happened in the last few days I haven't had time to post. Wednesday I found out I needed to make a last minute trip to Illinois. Literally I had about ten minutes to throw clothes in a bag and run out the door. When I got to the airport- the line was SUPER long for security. As I walked to the end of the line I realized I would miss my flight for sure. I turned around. Made friends with a young family towards the front and asked if I cut in front of them. Thank God they said YES. By the time I got to the gate they were boarding the B section. I was C. Whew! I had just made it.

The purpose of the trip was to ensure the State's Attorney and Child Welfare Services knew our family was ready to take our newborn baby home. If we hadn't been prepared with paperwork and present-he would become a ward of the state. It was an ALL-Day affair at the courthouse. In the end we were successful. Our little prince (only two days old) got to go home with one of his grandmas. It was my brother's birthday. Such a relief and a gift to be able to bring him home.
Friday morning I got to introduce Huxley and Bergie to their new little brother. We met at their daycare. It is SUPER FANCY. I can only hope that I will run an operation that looks that cool.

When I walked into the room, Bergie walked right up to me. When Huxley noticed Bergie was sitting in my lap she wanted to sit in my lap too. Bergie was a little upset at first. I asked her if she would like to hold him. She sat in my lap and we practiced touching him softly. She wanted to pick him up and hold him. So I let her sit in front of me-holding her hands out she put them under the blanket and we held him together. Huxley was not as excited. She was all about the car seat. She wanted to put her baby doll in it and rock it. When I wiped Bergie's running nose-she wiped the baby's nose with a tissue. She is a perfect little mother hen.

We played with their dolls. They love dressing up. They love music and dancing. They blew me kisses and hugged me when I took them back to their classroom. It was hard to leave. I saw artwork hanging up with their names on it. I am SO impressed by everything. They are both amazing in every way.

After I left their day care. I went to see my brother. It was a long drive for a short visit. I told him no mater what I love him. Our family supports him and I will do whatever it takes to take care of his children. I wanted to hug him. I told him how beautiful his son was. He will get to see him for himself on Monday.

Yesterday it was pouring rain. I didn't get as much as I wanted to done. We managed to pick up the mirror and new sconces for the bathroom. They look even more awesome than I thought they would. I painted the closet doors. I cannot believe how expensive hardware is! Josh's brilliant idea was to use the only 4 glass knobs from the kitchen and use them for the closet pulls. That saved me $36. I recycled the light switch covers that were stainless steel. Josh painted them with white appliance enamel. You can't even tell they didn't come that way. To clean up the random overs-spray and paint off the hardwood floors- I got Goof Off wipes. They work great.

Last night I went to see Emily at the barn. She has a 14 month old son. She gave me all of Mason's baby stuff. Literally I am SET. I don't need any clothes for the next 9 months. I got an awesome car seat, 2 play pens, a bouncy seat, baby education books for me (I cannot wait to read the baby sign language book), bottles, diaper wipe warmer, blankets, changing pad, a baby bathtub and some other goodies. I am SO grateful. Everything is so nice. Orie is going to be the best dressed baby for sure. Thank you Emily...from the bottom of my heart.

8am this morning I got a call from the Social worker in Illinois. She was calling to get all the information to initiate the expedited inter-state transfer. I was shocked that she called on a Sunday morning. I am one step closer to having the girls home.

Today I unpacked TONS. I put away all kinds of baby stuff. Made great use of closet space with all the stackable rubbermade containers. I recycled garage shelving and shoe organizers for the closet in their room.

Katie bought a crib for the girls and my mom chipped in for more than half another one.
We are going with a jungle theme for Orie. Emily did such a cute job on Mason's Room I had to be a copycat.

Most Productive Tuesday EVER

I accomplished a lot. I finished painting the bathroom. The refinished bathtub looks amazing. The paint color looks awesome.

I can't wait to see it finished with the new sconces, mirror and towel racks. It won't be DONE till I have two little girls singing in tub before bed. When Bergie was little her favorite was sitting in her little baby bathtub on the kitchen counter. She loved splashing. Her favorite toys were the rubber orca and frog from target. I washed and put away all her tiny onesies I still have. Won't need those with a little boy coming!




I painted the closet doors in the girl's room. It makes a HUGE difference.

Happy Birthday to my little prince....

Dearest Orie...we impatiently waited for you to grace us with your presence! You were worth the wait. You are gorgeous. Your sisters are going to LOVE you! Their own little baby to love. I can't wait to see you all together.




8lbs 3oz 20" long

Dear Baby...Today Was Supposed To Be Your Birthday...Hurry Up!

All day I looked at my phone. I looked at it so much my battery was dead twice. I've been waiting for the call that you have arrived! If you don't come out on your own we are coming to get you. You are too big to stay in the oven.

I spent most of the day at IKEA. Yes...today is Saturday. I didn't realize it was "Saturday at IKEA" until I got there and realized it looked crazier that Costco on Christmas Eve. I found some AMAZING stuff. I like how they have things grouped together. It makes it easy to see what the options are, colors and compare prices. I found lots in person that I didn't even see on the website. I hit up Lowes afterwards to collect more paint for the girls' bathroom. I am doing a beach theme. I have never been a fan of themed rooms but this is too much fun.

The room is a light shade of cotton candy pink. The ceiling, trim, closet doors and molding are left to do.

Designing A Room For Two Princesses

While researching all the must-have baby and safety stuff I realized their room is just too ugly for them to sleep in. It is a dark coffee brown. I picked out a pale pink. My mom said it will make them hate pink for the rest of their lives. Oh Well. I'll throw up some inspiration pictures I found.



I called my dad for instructions on what paint to buy, how much and how it should be mixed. I went to Lowe's, searching for the perfect paint chip was frustrating, almost as frustrating as shopping for the perfect pair of black shoes.
I put my beautiful leather chair from David in their room and a crystal standing lamp.
I have lots of patching, prepping and priming to do today! I am going to see Snow to collect all the awesome baby stuff she has gathered up. I have the last of my things to pick up from my old house...then I will be all done. Thank goodness! its 100 miles round-trip. I will be glad when I don't have to drive anywhere.

12:00pm I drove to San Diego to meet Whilz. He saw my ad on craigslist and offered a fireplace screen and baby clothes. I can't thank him enough for his generosity!!!! It's people like you, serving our country and paying it forward that make our country great. I'll take a picture once I get it set up. He told me all about the baby exchange resale. I can't wait to check it out!

12:30 I got to see Snow and Coltrane. He is SO cute. She is so amazing for collecting all kinds of awesome stuff her kids have grown out of. The girls scored clothes, toys, stuffed animals and there was even baby food! Too cool. I can't wait to unpack everything.

Its pouring down rain!

I tackled painting the bedroom! I learned proper prep work from my dad. Thanks DAD! You would be proud. I got the primer done....

10:25pm
Before Pic....

After Primer...

Meeting The Foster Mother

Yesterday I got brave and called the Foster Mother. In my parenting classes they expressed that the privacy of the Foster Parents is important. When I called her I first introduced myself and I offered my email address. I said if my calling makes you feel uncomfortable, can we just exchange an email. I just want to see recent pictures of the girls. She was very welcoming and said he didn't mind me calling and she was happy to hear from me. I could hear the girls in the background. She referred to Bergeron as Bergie (P.S. I coined her nickname) it made me smile.

She told me how bright the girls are and how Huxley can put on her own socks. I shared with her the youtube videos of Bergie when she was 6 mo-1 year. She played the videos for Bergie and she said "Huxley!" She thought the baby was her sister, The Foster Mother said no "that's YOU!". I played those videos for Bergie all the time when she was little. She used to get excited to see her picture or to see herself on the computer when we were on skype or if I recorder her with our Flip. I can only wonder if she will feel like my home is familiar or if she will recognize my voice.


Walking into my parenting class my phone buzzed with a friend request from the Foster Mother. It was so exciting to see pictures of the girls, I had a hard time paying attention. The class ironically was about building bonds between Birth Parents and Foster Parents to create a stronger support circle for children. Our Instructor Patty shared pictures of a foster kid she had when she was just a little baby and pictures again of her when she was 8. I had to pipe up to tell the class I had just talked to the Foster Mother for the first time and now I have pictures of the year they have been missing in my life. They will have those forever. No holes. The couple at my table said-please show us your babies!!

Moving Day

Rick Armstrong of Birdett Moving has a great reputation. His guys handled my last move when I downsized and moved most of everything I own into two storage units. I emailed him Tuesday night and 6:02am he emailed me back. I called him immediately and he said his guys would do the move for me Thursday morning. With his help I will be able to get unpacked and get licensing in here immediately. Thank you Rick, from the bottom of my heart.

I can't wait to meet my new sweet babies

I have gotten so many sweet messages from friends and family that they "can't wait to meet the babies!" well.... me tooooo.

I can't wait to meet Orie and Huxley. Bergie...I have missed you every day. I have saved all the kisses and hugs that belong to you. Today was the first day I got excited (more than scared to death). It wasn't until I spoke to ALL the people who have the authority to finalize everything that I felt relief.

Going to the grocery store I realize this is the last week I will shopping for just "me" food. Everything is going to change. It will be worth it.

The advice I got from my cousin Jess was invaluable. I have to say someone giving me a heads up on brands, must-have items and general info is the best gift. On top of that she is collecting up all the things she can part with. I could cry for all the generosity.

My house is kind of empty right now. But it is FILLED with love. A nasty storm is coming just in time for moving day. Really mother nature? You just couldn't help yourself could you...

My First Parenting Class

Update: The new baby's name has already been chosen (regardless of sex) the baby's nickname is Orie.

Last night I went to my first P.R.I.D.E. Class in San Marcos. It was very informative as far as the steps needed to become a licensed foster parent. I got to speak to the maternal grandma of the girls. I have never had a relationship with her. But knowing we are on the same team is really comforting. She will be there for Orie's birth and she will take care of Orie until I make my trip to Eureka on the 26th. Katie (my longtime best-friend since Sophomore year) offered to make half the trip with me. Having the company and help is going to make it SO much easier. Katie is also planning a shower for us in Eureka. I am overwhelmed by how supportive everyone is. Honestly I am excited but it is a little different than the excitement of giving birth. What is appropriate? Do I call everyone I know. Do I just post pictures of these gorgeous kids later and let people ask questions or just make their own assumptions? Hmmmm.

I love all the advice. Tessa said she sleeps better with a video baby cam. There is all kinds of stuff now that wasn't available when my mom ran a day care. I have to up to speed.

Does anyone know the lady who was on TV who is a coupon queen in McKinleyville? I need advice from her. If she could teach me her ways I will be set.

The list today....
Inform the rest of the family and my friends in Eureka/Sacramento. If you people want to see me you had better be home the weekend of the 26th. Who knows when it will be when I can make it back there.

Get my calendar organized. I have weddings and CAbi parties booked and I can't let them fall by the wayside.

Post on craigslist in the wanted section

Scope out other licensed day cares/foster parents in the area who might be able to trade help.

Check out the yard sales. I have one weekend to get moved into the new house and get set up before I bring home the new baby.

Make like 100 phone calls to cover all the bases :)

no problem...

Getting Ready To Bring Home Baby

Roughly 48 hours ago I found out I am bringing home a newborn in the next two weeks. It will be a surprise if it's a girl or a boy. Secretly I am hoping for a girl so I can go crazy and get pink everything. I am excited and scared at the same time.

Tonight my date for Valentine's Day is a room full of strangers. I am attending parenting classes to prepare me for this new adventure. At orientation it was a little strange to be the only single one there and at least 15-20 years younger than everyone else.

I am going through formal licensing to be a day care provider and foster care parent. I think this is the best way to stay home and raise babies. My mother and my step grandma both ran a day care out of their home to raise their families as single moms. I can do this. Failure is not an option.

This weekend I will be scoping yard sales. I need to get the house ready.