And it haunts my Mondays.

      Succinct recipes, delectable photographs, balanced meals, green salads, the foresight! The organization!

It’s all too much for me!

      In case you were not aware, I am the anti-homemaker. Obviously, I see the benefit to menu planning, and have even done a Menu Plan Monday post or two in the past  on my other site, QponCutie. But 99.9% of the time, I don’t have my shit together enough to know what we’re having for lunch on Monday, let alone what we’re eating for dinner on Thursday.

      As the endless march of Mondays goes on, I am again and again reminded of my shortcomings. And every Monday I resolve to get it together and start planning a menu, knowing that it will save me from the 5PM grocery runs and help preserve what little remains of my sanity. Each week I know that THIS is the week that I finally become a grownup…

      Ah, screw it…frozen pizza it is…

Image courtesy of scaredofbabies on Flickr

Last night was a night that I have looked forward to for a YEAR.  The premier of The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part 1.  Yes, I am a huge Twilight nerd.  No, it’s not high literature or cinematic genius, but I love it, so shut up.

Anyhoo, I brought my daughters to the midnight premiere, as is our tradition.  Naturally, the place was packed.   At an event such as this, you really get a cross-section of society, it makes for great people-watching.  However, sometimes this people watching makes me want to crawl into a hole and renounce my humanity.

While  we were at the customer service desk waiting for some help with a ticketing situation (more on that later), people were milling about getting their concessions for the big show.  I notice a woman walking by wearing a pair of pajama pants.  Naturally, I rolled my eyes, as I always do, because, well, she was WEARING PAJAMA PANTS.  IN PUBLIC.  (Side note: WHEN are people going to get the memo that this is NOT OK?)  As I’m rolling my eyes, something caught my attention.  I am horrified to report, dear readers, that this woman was wearing a ROBE!  Not a cardigan, not a sweater jacket, a fucking ROBE.  Oh, and slippers!!  When I say slippers, I don’t mean those cute ones that you can sorta kinda get away with wearing outside.  No, this particular specimen was wearing the open-toed KMart Blue Light special slippers, just like my Nana wore. I didn’t know if she was there to see a movie, or to #OccupyTheTheater!

Let me assure you, I am NO fashion plate.  If Stacy and Clinton were to see me on the street, they would have some choice words for me, I guarantee you.  I am a casual, leggings-and-a-sweater kinda gal.  I’ll never be on a best-dressed list.  But you know what??  I have a little bit of dignity, and I actually care how I present myself to the world.   I knew I was going out last night, so I dressed in “outside” clothes, did my hair (to the best of my ability), and put on some makeup (THAT is a public service, trust me!).  I found the whole thing ridiculous and sad.

But enough about the sad lack of dignity among the movie-going public these days. How about a rant-let (yes, that’s a technical term), about horribly misplaced priorities??  Fun, no??

We were lucky enough to get a great seat at the theater last night, and a small group of people were seated in the row right in front.  I heard some strange noise coming from their general direction, and that’s when I noticed that they had a toddler with them!  I tell you, this little thing couldn’t have been any more than two years old, and they dragged her to a movie (which is TOTALLY inappropriate for a child that age!) at MIDNIGHT?!?!?!?  I’m sorry, but that is just wrong.  Granted, the little girl was remarkably well-behaved, so they didn’t really inconvenience the other theatergoers, but come ON!  It’s just a MOVIE people!  It is not that serious.  If you couldn’t get a sitter that night, then you come back another time when you have adequate child care for the little one.  Get it together, people!

People confuse me…

I’ve contemplated for some time now about having a breast reduction at some point in time.  While there are plenty of times I feel like being fuller on top is a curse, I’m also anxious about the idea of undergoing surgery.  I do a lot of reading on the subject, and want to be fully informed before I make any kind of decision on the matter.

While most people hear the words “breast augmentation” and immediately consider breast enlargements, there are actually a number of other common plastic surgeries that can be applied to a woman’s breasts, depending on her needs and desires. For example, one of the most common of these surgeries, contrary to popular belief, is actually breast reduction surgery. The fact is, many women with naturally large breasts feel physically uncomfortable, and even have back problems on occasion. Breast reduction surgery can help these women to feel more balanced and comfortable. If you are considering this sort of procedure, you may want to make use of related websites, such as www.aboutplasticsurgery.com.

Much like any other surgical procedure, you will in all likelihood be subject to thorough medical evaluation leading up to your breast reduction surgery. This is simply because any time a surgeon is going to cut into your body and make a physical alteration, he or she needs to first make sure that your body is in shape to handle the procedure. Specifically, you may also be asked to undergo breast examinations, to make sure that your breasts are healthy, and that the surgery will not pose any risk to you.

You will also want to make a number of specific preparations for surgery, which will be detailed and explained by your surgeon in the weeks leading up to your surgery. Depending on your specific situation, you may be asked to start taking medications that will help to prepare your body for surgery. Additionally, you will probably (if, of course, you are a smoker) be encouraged to stop smoking for as long as possible before and after your surgery. Keeping smoke out of your system allows a cleaner and clearer oxygen flow through your bloodstream, which in turn should help the incisions made during surgery heal quickly and more effectively.

Taking steps like the ones detailed above can help to put you in the best possible position for a smooth and effective breast reduction surgery. Ultimately, these surgeries are common enough, and doctors are practiced enough, that you run a fairly low risk of complications or poor results. However, you will definitely want to do your own research, and talk to experienced doctors and perhaps even patients like yourself, to make sure that you think breast reduction surgery is the right thing for you. You may soon find that you are more comfortable physically than you have ever been.

This post has been brought to you by the good folks at http://www.aboutplasticsurgery.com

IN THEATERS JUNE 10^TH
Directed by:  John Schultz
Written by:  Kathy Waugh and Megan McDonald
Cast: Jordana Beatty, Heather Graham, Parris Mosteller, Jaleel White
Produced by:  Sarah Siegel-Magness and Gary Magness
Executive Producers: Bobbi Sue Luther and Andrew Sugerman
Rating: PG
Runtime: 91 minutes
www.judymoodymovie.com

When her best-laid plans for a summer full of fun go comically awry, an imaginative young girl creates her own vacation adventures in Judy Moody and the NOT Bummer Summer. Based on the beloved, bestselling book series by Megan McDonald, Judy Moody and the NOT Bummer Summer is an irresistible and delightfully funny treat for adventure-loving kids and adults.

This summer, Judy Moody is planning the most super-duper, double-rare summer vacation ever with best friends Rocky and Amy. Except that it turns out Rocky is going to circus camp to learn to tame lions, and Amy is headed off to Borneo with her mom to save a lost tribe while Judy stays home with her pesky little brother Stink and second-best friend Frank Pearl.

Just when she thinks things are as rotten as they can be, her parents announce that they will be going to California and Judy will have to stay behind with her Aunt Opal, who she’s never even met! It looks like Judy’s best summer ever has just become her way worst summer ever.

But feisty, fearless and ever-funny Judy Moody never gives up! With help from some unexpected sources, she’s headed for a summer full of surprises in this charming and spirited family film. Get ready, get set, get MOODY!

To enter this giveaway, simply leave me a comment letting me know about any plans you have to make this a NOT bummer summer!  This giveaway will end on June 1 at 3PM EST. I will send the winner’s name to the PR firm handling the screening, and the tickets will be waiting for you at the theater.  Please note that the guest list does operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so you want to make sure to arrive in time to ensure your seats.  Also, the Ritz has a parking garage attached, and will validate for screening guests.  Good luck everyone!!

Introducing Celebrating Love: Share, Remember, Cherish, the second in a gift series by Jim McCann, who is the founder of both 1-800-Flowers.com and Celebrations.com.  A short synopsis of the book:

Celebrating Love: Share, Remember, Cherish follows Celebrating Mom in a new gift series from 1-800-flowers.com and Celebrations.com founder Jim McCann.

Reinforcing the 1-800-flowers.com and Celebrations.com philosophy of helping customers express, connect, and celebrate, McCann balances the practical with the inspirational, and the poignant with the profound, inside this collection of authentic love stories. Full-color drawings illustrate the book throughout and are interspersed with meaningful quotes and little-known facts about love and affection. Divided into four sections based on the distinct seasons of love, Celebrating Love features 150 entries.

To make your Valentine’s Day even sweeter, 1-800-Flowers is holding a “Love Note” contest.  You can submit a Love Note on the site, and the note that receives the most votes will win a FREE bouquet!    You can submit your note here!

You can also WIN a copy of Celebrating Love: Share, Remember, Cherish to help keep you in the Valentine spirit all year long.  To win, just leave a comment stating that you would like to enter the contest.   For  an additional entry, you can “like” MommyTails on Facebook.  (Be sure to leave a separate comment letting me know!)

This contest will close in ONE WEEK, on 2/21/11 at 3PM EST.  Your prize will be shipped directly from the giveaway sponsor.  This contest is open to US Residents only.  Good luck!  Happy Valentine’s Day!

WARNING!  Wordy Review Ahead!

I had thought about chemical peels in the past, but never went through with it due to the cost.  When I was offered the opportunity to try a chemical peel kit here at home, I jumped on the chance.  So here’s how it’s going so far:  (this is a long one, since this is much more than just your average drugstore skincare product.  I wanted to make sure I covered everything)

• Product Selection: There are a ton of different Glycolic Peel products available on the website, so I was really unsure which product would be right for me.  NaturalSkinShop has estheticians available by phone, email, or webchat to help select the perfect peel for you.  I chose the Glycolic 40% Medium Peel Kit.
• Shipping/Packaging: I placed my order on 12/31.  My order processed and was shipped out on 1/3.  It was at my door just four days later.  It was shipped from Florida to Philadelphia.  My kit was very securely packaged, fitting snugly into the shipping box.
• Contents of the Kit: In this kit I received a bottle of 10% Glycolic Exfoliator and a 40% Glycolic Peel.  These are nice glass bottles with a pump, each are 2 ounces.  I also received a 1 oz. bottle of 100% Hyaluronic Moisturizer, as well as a box of gauze pads.  Everything comes packaged in a nifty little toiletry bag, which is great for going back and forth to the bathroom.

Well, that’s all well and good, but how does it WORK?

I’m happy to report that I think this product works really well.  You receive clear, detailed directions on how to use the product.  If you are new to peels, you are supposed to use the 10% Exfoliator for a week, to help your skin get used to the Glycolic Acid.  You simply pump a small amount onto the included gauze pad, and buff it into your face, then rinse with cold water.  There was a little bit of a tingle, nothing too drastic, though.  I used this each night, after washing my face.

Follow that with the Hyaluronic Moisturizer.  It’s a serum, rather than a lotion or cream.  Be careful, you CAN over-do it with this.  From what I read on the website,  your skin can only absorb so much of the serum, so the rest just sits on top of the skin, creating a dry, mask-type feeling.  One pump is more than enough for my entire face (I rub the rest into my hands!)

You know the expression, “Softer than a baby’s behind?  Dudes…this stuff really makes my face feel softer than a baby’s butt…and I have four kids, so I know a little something about baby’s butts!

After a week of the Exfoliator, it was time to try the Big Daddy 40% Glycolic Peel.  I will admit, I was a little nervous.  (My mother-in-law said I should test it on the hubby first!).  Just like the Exfoliator, you pump some onto the gauze and massage it into your face.  They recommend not leaving it on too long at first, and as you become accustomed to the peel, you can leave it on longer.  The tingling was more intense than the Exfoliator, but it wasn’t anything I couldn’t handle.  (They give you a recipe for a wash to de-activate the peel if it’s too strong).  Just like the Exfoliator, you then rinse and moisturize.

I was leery of the after-effects.  We’ve all seen the pictures of celebrities who’ve had peels, with their red, scaly faces.  This was not the case with me.  I had a very mild amount of peeling, and that was it.  After a week, if you’re not having any reactions, you can begin using the Exfoliator again to maintain your results.

So what ARE the results?

Of course, this is just my experience, so your results may differ.  But after two peels (this is a bi-weekly peel), I can report that my skin is MUCH softer and smoother.  My icky acne scars are probably about 75% less visible.  I have experienced almost NO new blemishes, and the ones that are still there are much easier to extract with a steam facial.  They are also much less noticeable.   My complexion is also a lot less dull looking, which is a nice plus for me!

Overall, I am really happy with this Glycolic Peel.  I’m getting great results, and without the expense of the dermatologist’s visit!  I am really excited to see further improvements with each successive peel.  I’m looking forward to trying some other products from their site.  I will update you all again in about a month and let you know about my continued results.   If you have any questions at all,  just leave me a comment and let me know!  In the meantime…

Buy It!

NaturalSkinShop.com has graciously offered an exclusive coupon code for my readers to use on their own orders.  Simply enter the coupon code SHEBLOGS and you’ll save 25% on your order!  This coupon code is good until February 21, 2011.  You can also get free shipping with any order over $75.  When you place your order, make sure to come back here, or post on Facebook, and let me know what you think of the products.

Disclosure:  I was  provided a complimentary product sample from NaturalSkinShop, through a promotion on SheBlogs.org,  in order to facilitate this review.  My opinions are, as always, 100% honest and unbiased.

One of the great things about Big Paw Designs is that they not only want to make your dogs hip and your cats cool, they also want to make sure that pets get the loving, caring home that they deserve.  I was so pleased to learn that a portion of the proceeds from their “Fleur de Lis” collection will benefit the Used Dogs Rescue in New Orleans.    So you get a great gift for a pet or pet lover in your life, and you get to help a pup in the process!  It’s a win-win!

Big Paw Designs was gracious enough to send me a collar charm for my kitty.  I tried for about 20 minutes to get my cat, Max, to sit still so I could get a shot of him modeling the “Tuna Breath” charm, but no dice.  But here is a pic of the charm.

For realz, how cute is this?

Big Paw Designs also wants YOU to have a hip dog or a cool cat, so they are sponsoring a GIVEAWAY!  You can enter here to win your choice of Pewter Collar Charm as seen at Big Paw Designs.  To enter, simply leave me a comment (with your email  address) telling me which charm you would like to win! This contest will run until 2/16/11 at 3PM EST, at which time I will use Random.org to select a winner.  Your prize will arrive directly from Big Paw Designs.  This contest is open to entrants aged 18 and older, from the US only.  (No PO Boxes, please)

You can also earn some extra entries!  To earn an extra entry, you can Follow Big Paw Designs on Twitter,  and/or Become a fan of Big Paw Designs on Facebook.  If you do either of these, please leave a separate comment for each one, and don’t forget to leave your Facebook name/Twitter handle.

Good luck!

Disclosure:  This review was made possible by Mom Spark Media.  I received a complimentary product in exchange for my honest review.  All opinions are my own, and 100% unbiased.

The wonderful Infusion Design Studios is having a contest right now for a blog makeover.  You can nominate and vote for your favorite blogs to receive a makeover for the new year.  I would LOVE to win this prize!  I would be forever grateful if you could take just one minute and pop over there and nominate me!  Just visit the Infusion Design Studios website, and there is a link to “Nominate a Blog”.  Just fill in three questions, and you’re done!

Thanks SO much!

But there may be relief on the horizon!  I’ve been given the opportunity to review a Glycolic Acid Peel from NaturalSkinShop.com.  I’ve chosen the Glycolic Acid 40% Peel Kit.  This kit has gotten positive reviews from people who’ve used it, and seems like it will be a good match for my skin care needs.   Since I’m new to glycolic peels, I wanted something that wasn’t too strong for my skin, but still want to see a big improvement!  I’m really excited to try it out!

So watch this space in the upcoming weeks, and I will keep you posted on my progress, and of course, do a full review.  I will also be offering an exclusive discount code, so you can try out the Glycolic Acid products for yourself!  Stay tuned!

We’re really down to the wire now.  Less than a week until Christmas.  I’ve been out and about the past few weeks, shopping,  looking for the perfect gifts for my loved ones.  I’ve also been doing a lot of people-watching (mostly while standing in line), and while all the stores are perfectly trimmed, shoppers are wearing their finest Christmas sweaters, (I’ve even seen people that have their CARS decorated!), there is one thing I’ve noticed missing.

Remember “Peace on Earth, Good Will to Men”?  I honestly haven’t seen much of that at all this Holiday season.  Over this past month, I’ve observed an increase in rude, aggressive drivers, thoughtless, sometimes belligerent store patrons, and cranky, miserable cashiers.  I certainly understand that this is a hectic time for people.  Trying to fit in all the shopping and other preparation into an already packed schedule is stressful.  Add in the extra financial pressure, well, it’s practically a recipe for cranky!

Unfortunately, the overwhelming feeling I’m getting from all of this is that for many people, the Holiday season has become all about the “stuff”.  Parents clamoring for the latest coveted toys, husbands trying to pick the right carat weight, 3rd cousins trying to select a Snuggie that doesn’t clash with Grandma’s couch.  I’ve overheard many people complaining about all the wrapping they have to do, all the food they need to cook, all the in-laws they have to entertain.

I want to take over the PA system at the stores and tell everyone, “SLOW DOWN!  IT’S NOT ABOUT THE STUFF!”.

I will admit to getting sucking into the “stuff” trap.  Hell, I have 4 kids, and apart from them, TWENTY-SIX other people to buy for!   I do my best to select gifts that I really think someone will enjoy and get good use out of.  I enjoy giving gifts, making people happy and seeing their smiling faces when they open their package.  But I REFUSE to go insane OR broke in the process.

Instead, I’m trying to make more of an effort to place more emphasis on the meaning and sentiment of the Christmas season.  Our family celebrates the religious traditions of Christmas.  Maybe you don’t, but you can take the time to celebrate the blessings you have in life.  Spend time with your family, remember how lucky you are to have them.  TELL THEM how lucky you are to have them.  That can far outshine even the most expensive gift.

Maybe you’re in a position where you don’t feel you have many blessings right now.  That’s certainly understandable these days.  Why not go out and be a blessing to someone else?  You may not have much to offer of a material fashion, but you can gift the gift of yourself.  Volunteer your time and talents for someone else.  You can get down on the floor with a special child in your life and play a simple board game.   Help them understand as well that the Christmas season (and life in general) is not about the STUFF.

Let your actions show your loved ones how you feel about them, not the amount of money you spend on them.  The pile of presents might be so big it blocks your view of the tree, but so what?  What does that prove other than the fact that you can spend money?

Now I don’t claim to have it all figured out (far from it).  I’m still working on it, like any other parent.  But I think it’s important for my children to see me realize that it’s not about the stuff, and to help instill this in them as well.  I realize how hard it is, with advertising and consumerism practically seeping into their pores these days.

So as for me, I am going to make a concerted effort to slow down and enjoy and celebrate the true beauty and blessings of Christmas.  I want to play games, drink cocoa, read stories, and be surrounded by my family and friends.   Sure, gifts are a wonderful addition to the mix, but my loved ones, and the time I’m given with them is the greatest gift of all.