Saturday, November 26, 2011

FuzziBunz Winner!!

I have a winner to announce!! Rebecca Orr, you are the lucky winner of (2) FuzziBunz size Medium cloth diapers in white! Hurry up and check your email and reply ASAP!!



Blessings,
Crunchy Katie

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Arbonne Giveaway Winner!

We have a winner! Amy Menzies check your email!

Also, I still have a FuzziBunz giveaway going. Get your entries in cause it ends soon!!

CrunchyKatie

Thursday, November 10, 2011

FuzziBunz Perfect Size Medium Giveaway

I received my first box of fluff!!  I got my FuzziBunz size XS and S in the mail about 2 weeks ago.  I opened the package and was so excited to see how tiny they were.  I imagined our little teeny baby girl wearing them and ooo'd and awwww'd about them to all my friends whenever I got the chance!  The other day I was excited to receive my 4 FREE diapers from the FuzziBunz buy 6 get 2 free deal.  They sent me the wrong size though.  I got 2 mediums and right away realized that these are not EVER going to fit a baby of mine!  My other 4 never even grew out of disposable size 3s!!  So I figured, why not just give them away!!  So, in honor of my tiny babies, who will never fit in a FuzziBunz size Medium, I am giving away (2) FuzziBunz size Medium cloth diapers in white!!  Simply fill out the Rafflecopter form below!!  Good Luck!!

Crunchy Katie


Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Newborns and Cloth Event

Hey there followers!  You have got to head on over to Life With My Littles and One More Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest and check out their Newborns and Cloth event going on starting November 11th.  They have tons of awesome reviews and giveaways for you!!  Check back here as well for an awesome FuzziBunz giveaway coming November 11th.  You can receive extra entries for the FuzziBunz giveaway for entering the giveaways on each of their blogs!!

Arbonne Review and Giveaway

I was lucky enough to receive some great samples from a wonderful Arbonne Consultant named Rachel Frentsos.  She sent me the following to try out and review.

(1) pack of Chocolate Protein Shake Mix
and
(1) pack of Vanilla Protein Shake Mix

Here is a link to the Supplement Facts for the Chocolate flavor.
Here is a link to the Supplement Facts for the Vanilla flavor.

I was very excited to try this out for me and my children.  I have some picky eaters and was eager to see if this could be an option for getting some more protein in my oldest especially.  The first day we tried the vanilla flavor.  I mixed it as directed and split it evenly between me and the 4 kiddos.  The boys loved it and drank it down then asked for more!  My girly, didn't care for it much and gladly passed it on to her big brother.  I enjoyed the vanilla flavor myself and I am usually a chocolate fan!  The next morning we tried the chocolate flavor.  Again, I got the same reaction from the kids.  The boys loved it and the girly didn't.  Her big brother again finished hers off for her.

Now, before I served this for my children and I, I meticulously checked out the ingredient list and read the directions.  It did state that it was not recommended for pregnant women.  I was intrigued, because it contained nothing that seemed bad for me to be consuming while pregnant.  I emailed Rachel to ask her the reason for this and she replied that she had spoken with Arbonne's main office and they simple stated that they didn't recommend it be by pregnant women because it is generally used as a part of a weight loss regimen.  Since I'm certainly not trying to loose weight, I went ahead and used the product anyway. 

The ingredient list also states that the product is also manufactured in the same plant as peanut products.  I do have  a son with a peanut allergy, but it is not severe and we usually give him things like this that do not directly contain peanuts.

He did have a reaction.  About an hour after he drank the shake he began sniffling and his mouth looked a bit swollen.  Then I noticed the tale tale hives appearing around his waist.  I gave him a dose of benadryl and sent him off to bed.  A few hours later he was back to normal.  I am still at a loss as to what caused the reaction.  I will go ahead and say for those with nut allergies to avoid this product.

All in all the taste of the shakes was great.  I preferred the vanilla over the chocolate this time!  And I'm sure the boys would have enjoyed either one on a daily basis.  I love that the product is vegan and contains many minerals and vitamins.  It also uses Stevia leaf as a sweetener instead of splenda or aspartame. 

The next sample I received was the RE9 Advanced sample set pictured here.

  As I always do, I checked out the ingredients for anything that I would normally avoid.  The only problem I had with it was that the Restorative Day Cream with SPF 20 contained two sunscreens, Octisalate and Octocrylene, that are thought to cause hormone disruption and block Vit D production.  See this article.  It also contained Zinc Oxide which is a natural mineral sunscreen.  I use this for my children in the summer.

I decided, for the sake of this review, to use the Restorative Day Cream anyway.  The Smoothing Facial Cleanser left my face feeling clean and refreshed.  I followed up with the Regenerating Toner which left my face feeling nice and hydrated.  Then came the Intensive Renewal  Serum.  This left my face feeling very soft and so moisturized.  Next I used the Corrective Eye Cream followed by the Restorative Day Cream with SPF 20.  I have to say, that after all the creams, I could have left out the sunscreen all together.  My face was noticeably more smooth.  And felt so very soft.  I was very sad when on the 3rd day my toner ran out!  The sample sizes just aren't enough!!  I continued on using the remainder of the samples.  I really enjoyed the Night Repair Cream.  It was great going to bed with soft, clean skin and I knew that during the night my face was being nourished.  All in all I loved the product and would rant about it to my friends. 
You can get the whole set for $323.  That is a lot of money for a momma like me.  If I worked I would most definitely consider using these products.

 I also received the FC5 Shampoo and Conditioner and the SeaSource Detox Spa Foaming Sea Salt Scrub, Detoxifying Rescue Wash, and Renewing Body Gelee. 


I really enjoyed my showers for the next couple days!  The shampoo and conditioner left my hair feeling very clean and smooth.  It has a wonderful scent to it as well!  The Sea Salt Scrub was very exfoliating.  The scent was very earthy and I felt like I was really at a spa!  I used the Detoxifying Rescue wash and really felt refreshed.  The smells were very renewing and invigorating!  The Renewing Body Gelee works like a moisturizer.  It is also very refreshing and smells wonderful!   

Now for the fun part!  Rachel Frentsos, Arbonne Consultant has graciously offered to giveaway a 12 pack of the Essential Protein Powder packets!!  That's a $34 value.  Along with the Protein Powder, she will include samples of Arbonne's wonderful products!   Here's what you have to do to win!!

Fill out the Rafflecopter form below.  The giveaway will end November 23, 2011.  The winner will be emailed that day and have 48 hours to reply or another winner will be chosen!  Good luck!!


Monday, October 24, 2011

Leftovers that keep going...and going...and going....

Last night we had oven roasted chicken for dinner.  I buy 2 whole chickens and simple rinse and dry then add spices and salt and pepper.  Every time I make them, I use a different spice or herb.  Sometimes it's paprika, and sometimes poultry seasoning.  We love rosemary and occasionally, I'll go all out and stuff the chickens with onions and oranges and thyme then make a tasty honey and orange glaze.  But more often than not, we go simple and cheap. 

Yesterday's chickens were smothered with Montreal Chicken seasoning.  I always add butter too.  It makes for great sauce, which my kids love over their rice!  I bake them at 400 degrees for 1hour and 30 min.  Then lower the oven temp to about 325 until they reach an inner temp of 190.

This has become one of our family favorites.  All of the children (even the super picky one) manage to clean their plate on chicken and rice night.  I love it. 

Since we make 2 chickens, hubby has a nice big breast to take for lunch the next day, and I have plenty for the next nights dinner (and then some.)

Tonight, we had chicken tacos.  Here's how I made them.

I take the whole carcass leftover from the night before (2 of them) and the extra meat and boil it in a large stock pot.  Tonight I added a couple of tablespoons of taco seasoning to the water.  It gave the chicken a really great taco flavor.  I boil for almost 2 hours (the longer the better), then remove all of the meat from the bones and discard the bones.  I saved all of the tasty broth for tomorrows dinner!!

Now shred up the chicken with 2 forks and add to a skillet.  I added 1 onion and sauteed for about 15min with 2 more tablespoons of taco seasoning, and a couple of ladles full of that tasty broth.

Cut up an shred all of your favorite taco fixings and then serve!! 

So easy and fast.  And we still have leftovers for hubby's lunch tomorrow!!

That's a way to make a meal stretch for a couple of days!!

It really makes me feel great that I am able to make the groceries last as long as I can.  What are some of your favorite leftover meals??

Blessings,
Crunchy Katie 

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Giving Birth Naturally

Hello, my name is Katie, and I'm a birth junkie. 

I have been since I witnessed my mom giving birth to my baby sister at a birth center.  I knew that when I had my own babies, I would do it naturally, with no drugs and at a birth center.

When I discovered I was pregnant with our first baby I began researching.  We found a birth center, a Bradley course and I was addicted to Internet researching.  I read books on midwifery, natural birth choices, and did everything our Bradley course taught us.  I was so excited the day contractions started.  After a 23 hour labor, our son was born in the water!  I was so proud of myself!!


I knew the next birth would be at home, and it was!  Our daughter was born after about 8 hours of labor in our home in the water.  It was glorious!

We went on to have a hospital birth with our 3rd (definitely not planned, long story, and basically military ordered) and it was a nightmare!!  After having the peace and freedom of homebirth I had a really hard time with fetal monitoring, no waterbirth, hospital gowns, nurses, and staying overnight! It was my most painful birth, and the hardest to recover from.  I knew, barring a serious emergency, that I would never step foot in a hospital to give birth again!





Our 4th birth was completely healing for me.  At home, 3 hours of labor, totally hands off midwives, and with my children present I delivered my baby by myself in water!



I never thought I would get another chance to deliver a baby.  But God is faithful, and he cares about the desires of our hearts!  He knew I dreamed of having another baby!  And He answered my prayers, he surprised us with another gift from Heaven.  He has changed my husbands heart about adding another baby and we are so excited to have our 5th baby at home in Feb!!

After experiencing natural, unmedicated birth, I have a hard time understanding why a woman wouldn't want to try it!  I'm not saying that other choices are bad.  Every mom should decide what's best for her, but I truly feel that woman have began to believe that they aren't made to give birth.  They believe when doctors say that the baby won't fit.  They agree to c-sections for reasons that are just ludicrous to me!  I long for women to feel empowered by birth.  To know what their bodies are capable of and trust in that.  I want for women to understand the true dangers of hospital interventions.  The effects of drugs on themselves and their babies and take a stand for natural birth!!  Not just for them, but for their babies too!!  Doctors are there for when we need them.  For emergencies and abnormalities.  They really know nothing about the way natural birth works.  Don't put all your trust in them.  Learn for yourselves and be informed about all things birth!  Below are a few great websites that I found while researching pros of natural birth if you are expecting or know someone who is, visit them and pass on the information. 

Ina May Gaskin is an inspiration to me.  Read about her on her site here:
http://www.inamay.com/

http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/

The Bradley Method of Natural Childbirth
also called Husband Coached Childbirth
http://www.bradleybirth.com/

Bradley Birth is amazing.  Their education helps you to know exactly what your body is doing during labor.  Knowing what was going on, helped me to cope and accept a long labor.  I knew my body was working the way it was created to and trusted in that!

This is a great article, with references, about hospital birth and the dangers of interventions. 
http://www.gentlebirth.org/ronnie/hospitalDangers.html

This is a book that I read which offers information on all types of births.  It was the most informative, easy to understand book I read while researching during my first pregnancy.  Henci Goer goes into detail on the safety and benefits of homebirth as well as the options for pain relief in hospitals and their dangers.  I recommend this book to every pregnant momma!
http://www.amazon.com/Thinking-Womans-Guide-Better-Birth/dp/0399525173/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1319295207&sr=8-1

There are many more sites that have great info.  Get out there and do your research!  It's the best thing you can do for yourself and your baby! 

Blessings,

Crunchy Katie

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Spiritual Fitness

A few years ago I received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.  I experienced something similar to what's described in Acts 2 when the Holy Spirit fell on the early church on the day of Pentecost,  1 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a] as the Spirit enabled them.  I didn't see tongues of fire, or hear the wind, but I did feel the love of God so powerfully that I began to shake and ended up on the ground for over an hour crying.  I just couldn't believe that he loved me that much that he would single me out in that way.  He loved me so much that he wanted to use me.  Little old me!!  I also felt the after effects as described in Acts 1:8, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” .  I had a hunger for the Word like never before and I understood it like never before.  I spoke with unusual boldness about my faith in Christ and friends all over my neighborhood began to give their lives to Christ after hearing my testimony.  My husband, however, did not share my excitement.  He was scared.  He once told me that he was worried I was going to bring home some cool-aid and demand that he drink it!  As I began signing up for every Bible study I could get my hands on, he began to feel left out and used.  Something so wonderful as receiving the Holy Spirit was beginning to drive a wedge between my husband and I.

I have been praying for my husband since that time.  That he would come to know and love Christ and experience God's love tangibly as I had.  It has been rough.  There were days when I would cry out to God "Why is it taking so long??"  He would lovingly reply to me "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD.  Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future!"  Peace would overwhelm me and again I would trust in my Savior's plan for my husbands life.

My prayers are being answered a day at a time.  My husband is changing into who God promised me he would be!  I am so grateful to God that I have no words to express to Him how thankful I am.  His faithfulness moves me to tears! 

Just this morning my husband recommended that I visit a site called CrossFit Faith.  I have blogged about CrossFit before.  It is an awesome workout regimen like no other.  Elite and challenging, and on most days, down right insane!!  But it is addicting and once you "drink the cool-aid" as CrossFitters like to say, it's all over.  You can never go back to the old way of working out.  He mentioned that he had been praying every morning and thanking God for another day!  He also told me of something he had read on the CrossFit Faith website.  Instead of saying "I can't believe I have to (enter your least favorite task here)"...try saying instead, "I can't believe I GET to (enter same task here)".  I tried it out immediately! 

You see, we have a very grumpy 4 year old.  He is not a morning person.  Every morning when I wake him up, I brace myself for the whining and crying and mean comments to come.  This morning I said "I can't believe I GET to spend my day with my wonderful whiny 4 year old!!"  So far, it has been a great day and I am so thankful that I GET to be a stay at home mom and be with him daily!!

I encourage you to visit CrossFit Faith and start the journey to Spiritual Fitness!!  And if you're up to it...visit a CrossFit gym near you and try a physical workout too!!

Blessings,

Crunchy Katie

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Busy, busy, busy...and other excuses!

I realize I have not posted in more than a week!!!  Geez, the days are really flying by!  I am working on a weekly list of great topics to blog about!  Here are just a few ideas I am toying with:  Since it's "flu season" I will write about the dangers of the flu vaccine, it's efficacy (or lack thereof) and ways to naturally protect you and your children!  I will also start talking a lot about natural childbirth as the birth of our 5th rapidly approaches!  More recipes will come to you, as well as fun fall projects to do with kids!  So stick around and see what's coming!! 

I also have a new review and giveaway coming soon from Arbonne.  I met a wonderful independant consultant who sells their products yesterday and she was so eager to sponsor a review and giveaway!!

Until tomorrow!

Blessings,
Crunchy Katie

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Favorite Fall Recipe #1

The leaves are rapidly changing color over here on the east coast and I can't tell you enough how much I really love this time of year.  I am in constant awe of God's beautiful creation!!  It becomes hard for me to drive because I am so distracted by all of the different colors of trees.  Purple, red, yellow, orange, even HOT PINK!!  I just can't stop looking! 

Along with the change of colors, comes the cooler weather!  And with cooler weather comes the tasty soups that I love so much.  Here are 2 recipes for you to try.  One is for a pot roast and the other for soup.  I always make double for my family and stretch it for about 3 days!!  Less work for me and we always save money!

Pot Roast

This has to be the easiest recipe ever. 

4lbs of Chuck Roast
2 15oz cans of fire roasted diced tomatoes
1 large onion diced
2 cups of baby carrots
1 tblsp of minced garlic
salt and pepper

Toss the diced onion on the bottom of a 6 qt. slow cooker.  Cut the chuck roast into about 3 inch pieces (this helps it to get nice and tender!)  Arrange the roast pieces on top of the onions.  Salt and pepper the meat very good.  Rub garlic over the meat.  Pour the cans of tomatoes over the meat and cook on low for 8 hours! The last hour add the carrots and cook untill they are soft.  You can add potatoes or celery if you want.  We keep it simple on this night and save the leftovers for the best beef veggie soup ever!!

Enjoy!!

The next day my husband will take a bit of the leftovers for his lunch at work.  I use the rest for the soup for that night!

Now for the soup...

Leftover Pot Roast
1 large container of chicken broth
1 bunch of celery
1 bunch of kale
extra carrots
thyme fresh stem
oregano
basil
bay leaf
rosemary fresh stem
celery salt
salt and pepper

Get your large stock pot and add the leftover meat and juices.  Cook until warm!  Add the celery (leaves too) and extra carrots to the pot.  Then add the chicken broth.  Bring to a boil and then lower to a simmer.  Add the stems of fresh thyme and rosemary.  Then add 1 tsp of each of the others.  Salt and pepper to taste.  Remove the ribs from the kale and chop coarsely.  Add to the pot and simmer for 15 min!  Savor the flavor!!! 

I hope these recipes find their way into your recipe box.  Add and delete anything you want and just experiment!! 

Take some time to enjoy the changes of the season. 

Blessings,
Crunchy Katie 

Monday, October 10, 2011

Thirsties Winner!!

Hello All!!

I am super excited to announce the winner of the Thirsties Giveaway!!

Congrats to Carolyn H.  You have 48 hours to reply to the email that has already been sent to you!  Hurry or I'll have to choose another winner!!

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Too busy for a schedule??

Is it possible?  I am beginning to believe it is!  After a couple of days trying to get on a better schedule I am realizing that it is a lot harder than it seems.  I think the most important times of the day to keep a routine would be the morning before school, after school, and of course the beloved bed time routine!!  Those lovely 7 hours during the day when 3 of the babes are at school is time for me to get stuff done around the house, hit the gym, and run my errands.  It's amazing how fast 7 hours seem to go by!!  I am going to relax about it though, tweak it a bit, and just go with the flow!  Hubby has been very gracious and understanding about the chores so it takes a bit of pressure off me.  I still want to work hard to show him that I know the clean house is important to him though.  So here's to trying a bit harder, maybe getting up earlier, and skipping a cat nap to fold the laundry.  If it means hubby feels loved and respected, than I know it's worth it. 

Stay tuned for a couple of awesome recipes that take minutes to prepare and can feed the family for at least 4 meals!!

Blessings,

Crunchy Katie 

 

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Dinner and Discipline

So, as you may know, we have 4 little ones.  They range in age from 8 years down to 4(in 2 weeks).  Having a peaceful dinner is not common around here.  My husband and I usually spend more time saying, "Sit up!  Don't wipe your face on your sleeve!  Stop rocking in your chair!!  Use your fork!  Small bites please!!" than we do actually talking to our kids during the most important family meal of the day! 

The older they get the more we are realizing that what they learn now will shape who they are when they are grown.  That is a little unnerving when I read the above paragraph!  I really want us to raise well rounded, respectful, God fearing people, who will be great citizens.  It really is an overwhelming task, and definitely the most important job we have right now. 

We have been talking lately about ways to make changes in the way we discipline our kids.  We have noticed lately that we spend more time talking at them (sometimes with loud scary voices) than we do actually talking to them and teaching them how they should act.  I learned a few years ago that the word discipline comes from the word disciple, which means TO TEACH!!  Quite a revelation when you think about what most people believe discipline means.  When you hear the word discipline, what comes to your mind?  I first off think of spanking.  Time out.  Punishment.  All of these words provoke a fearful feeling in me.  I certainly do not want my kids to be afraid of me.  I would much rather them feel like they can come to me for anything.  Ask me anything.  And I want them to expect me to always teach them something, even when they have behaved badly. 

Kids are humans just like us big, smart adults.  They want to be treated just as we do.  The Golden Rule applies to everyone!  Treat others as you want to be treated.  I don't want to be spanked.  I don't want to be yelled at or told I'm bad.  And I certainly don't want to feel like I've completely disappointed the ones I love!  When my husband and I discuss things that make us feel heated, neither of us wants to talk it out if we are yelling or accusing each other.  We both shut down and usually nothing gets resolved.  I really don't like that feeling.  I'm sure our kids don't like it either.

So tonight, we decided to make dinner a little different.  We would like to have calm family conversations during dinner.  That can't possibly happen without boundaries and rules.  Our plan of attack tonight was simple.  We laid down the ground rules before the food hit the plates. 

-Everyone sits on their behinds with their legs in front of them. 
-No one touches their plate or utensils until the food has been distributed.
-Forks and spoons are used to eat, not our hands.
-We use polite words when we want something like, "May I please have more rice?"
-No one leaves the table without being dismissed.

The consequence for breaking a rule...TIME OUT.

Time out in our house means standing in the corner with our hands at our side and face in the corner.  No moving, talking or whining or the time starts over.  This helps them learn self control.  They are told that a rule has been broken and there are consequences.

You spend the same number of minutes in time out as you are old.

We did have 3 of the 4 in time out. Once their time out was completed, they were asked if they understood why they went to time out, then they were allowed back at the table.   

I have to say it was a great dinner.  They all tried very hard to use their self control while at the table.  Remembering all the rules and manners is hard for a kid.  But as we all know, making mistakes is how we learn!  They all learned something today.   I was one proud momma!!  I hope to continue the teaching tomorrow!!

Tomorrow the challenge continues.  Our morning schedule needs a bit of tweaking to insure a peaceful day for all.  A rough morning, makes for a rough day!  I'm all about starting the day off happy!  I'll see you back here tomorrow night with our new morning routine outcome!!

Blessings,

Crunchy Katie

Friday, September 30, 2011

There's never enough time

Do you all ever feel that way???

I do.  Daily.  I can never find enough time to do all the things I want to do, and see all the people I want to see.  There is certainly never enough time to get the house as clean and organized as I want it.  But the reasons why there is never enough time to do all those things have names.  They are a gift from God.  They are Isaac, Hannah, Joshua and Eli! 

I thought this year, with 3 of the 4 reasons in school all day, that I would have a cleaner more organized house!  I thought that I would have more time to ME.  I thought that I would be able to nap if I wanted.  Boy was I wrong.  Time has a funny way of speeding up between the hours of 7:45am and 2:20 pm. I've realized that I absolutely need to make a schedule.  I'm talking a strict, time hacking, schedule.  One that has specific chores and errands on it.  I even need to add time in for snacks and lunch.

Does this sound fun.  No way!!  I am a pretty relaxed person.  I mostly feel like someday it will all get done so why worry about it each day.  It really takes the fun out of living when you worry daily about what you didn't get done!! 

I must say, however, that as much as I don't mind letting some things go, my husband is the total opposite.  I know he feels disrespected if I don't get certain things accomplished.  I try my hardest to at least get the dishes done and carpet vacuumed before he gets home from work.  That seems easy enough.  But really, he wants more.  He would love everything in it's perfect place.  Shining and sparkling like it's just been spit polished by a Marine.  Honestly, I would love to give that to him. 

I have decided that I am going to make a serious effort to accomplish a few extra things for my husband.

-Bathrooms:  I can manage to clean 2 of the 3 each week.  I have to admit I have a hard time cleaning his bathroom.  I am quite sure he acquired some sort of parasite while deployed in Iraq which causes his toilet to resemble that of a gas station bathroom's.  He is a clean man!  Always smelling so nice.  Hair always perfectly blown dry and gelled up to the perfect height.  That is why I can't for the life of me figure out why his shower looks like a Motel 8 shower.  People, it really is that bad!!  I am not exaggerating!!  I promise you that if I cleaned that bathroom daily.  He would be the happiest husband alive.  That is my challenge.  To show him I love him and respect him by cleaning his bathroom.  I am not playing around here.  That is his Love Language.  Acts of Service.  He loves it when I clean the house and cook for him and serve him breakfast, lunch and dinner!!  So here I go.  Cleaning and serving joyfully!!

-Laundry:  I am sure you can imagine the amount of laundry we have with 4 kids in the house.  It is overwhelming.  I can never seem to get on top of it!!  I have to brag on my husband here.  He helps with laundry.  He does his own for one.  Won't allow me to do it for him.  Secondly, he will spend the weekend washing all the kids clothes.  Come Monday, I am left with Mount Salvador on my love seat to fold and put away!!  Did I mention I hate folding clothes?  I will wash and dry them, no problem.  Folding and putting away...that's another story!  So I'm sure you can guess my challenge.  It would be to keep up on the laundry so well, that my husband would never have to touch an article of our children's clothes.  That he would never have to come in from a long day at work and see piles of folded (or unfolded) clothes on the couch.  I think this is doable!  If I just do 1 load a day, just ONE, and do it all the way...I can accomplish this!! 

So, I have my work cut out for me don't I???  I know I can do it!!  I know I can do it!!!  Schedule, schedule, schedule!!!  Pep talk....over.  Here I go!!


Blessings,

Crunchy Katie   

Monday, September 26, 2011

Thirsties Giveaway!!

Hello all!  In honor of a new baby coming, my new blog, and my invite to use Rafflecopter I wanted to do a giveaway for one of the cloth diapers I hope to try out when baby girl arrives in Feb!  My good friend over at Life With My Littles is doing a giveaway right along side me!  She will be giving away a Kiwi Pie Fitted diaper!   

I have (1) Thirsties Duo Wrap and (1) pack of Thirsties Dry Duo Inserts to giveaway to one lucky reader!!  And I have the Rafflecopter widget this time!! 



This giveaway will run until Monday October 10th, 2011.  The winner will be emailed and have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.  Good luck everyone!!



Monday, September 19, 2011

Rockin' Green Winner

I just realized that I never posted the winner to my Rockin' Green giveaway!!  I also have to apologize for a typo that has had people over here entering for the giveaway even though it is over! 

I had posted that the giveaway would end on Sept. 12, 2012 instead of 2011.  I am so sorry for the mistake! 

Now for the good news!

THe winner chosen randomly by Random.org

was.....

Entry #14

♥Mama of the Littles♥ said...
FB post:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/permalink.php?story_fbid=259005367455609&id=605924950
angela_heffner at yahoo dot com

Mama of the Littles has already been notified and her Rockin' Green is on the way!!

Congrats!!

Thank you all for bearing with me through my first giveaway!!  I hope next time it will run much more smoothly and I'll proof read a little better!! 

Blessings,

Crunchy Katie

Cloth Diapers!?

I am determined to cloth diaper this new baby GIRL!!  I have been searching, and asking and reading reviews of newborn cloth diapers since I found out I was preggo.  It seems that everyone loves something different so I've decided to just try a few of each kind that I have read a ton about!

I came across this blog today as I was searching for giveaways!  The Tree Huggin' Momma has a great event going on right now!  During The Tree Huggin' Baby Extravaganza she will be reviewing some awesome products from some great companies!!  Not all are cloth diaper related, but also breastfeeding accessories, baby clothes and much more!  Go check her out!!

Now, on to the diapers I want to try!!

The first one is The Little Bee Co.  They make the Bitty Bee Changed diaper.  Here is a blog review and giveaway I read today about them (and entered too, of course!)  The Tree Huggin' Momma is right on point with the other reviews I've read about this diaper!  And I love their mission too!!  I sure do hope that I win!!

Fuzzi Bunz is a name I see floating around the web a lot.  Their diaper seems to be very popular and well made too!  Of my friends and family that have used the Fuzzi Bunz, all of them can't stop talking about how great they are!!  I will definetly be adding a few of these newborn diapers and maybe some one size diaps too!

Charlie Banana diapers are so soft!!  I was lucky enough to win one from Life With My Littles a while back and can't stop feeling how soft it is!!  I recently (before I got preggo) switched to reuseable feminine pads from Charlie Banana.  They are just as soft as the diapers so I know it will be plenty soft for my baby when she arrives!!  I will add some of these to my stash too!!

Fitted diapers have been recommended to me by one of my friends who is a cloth diapering pro!  She actually sews her diapers at home!  She said they are the easiest, and since she's done it a couple times, I know I should at least give them a try!  Finding a great place to buy fitteds and covers will be on my list of things to do!! 

I am hoping once the babe gets here, I will have a chance to review some newborn cloth diapers!!  Until then, I will be constantly hunting for great reviews and giveaways on awesome blogs!!

Blessings,

Crunchy Katie

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Exciting News

I just realized it's been 5 days since I posted on here!  So sorry!  I'm sure you can imagine how busy I am so you'll be forgiving!  Thanks for that. 

I received my Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Stretch Oil in the mail the other day.  It is still sitting on my table.  I am going to begin testing the product tomorrow and will continue using it until it is gone.  I am 18 weeks pregnant and starting to stretch pretty nicely these days!  I am hoping to be able to give the best possible review of the product!  Stick around, because Earth Mama Angel Baby offered to give away one bottle of Natural Stretch Oil to one lucky Mama!! 

On another note, we had our ultrasound today.  And there is a very active, healthy baby GIRL in there!!  I actually cried!  I really wasn't expecting that at all.  I have never cried at an ultrasound before.  As I thought back to all the times I asked hubby for "just one more baby" I realized that God really does know the desires of our hearts!  He is so faithful and I am so humbled by His greatness!

The day after we found out about this pregnancy, I went into the children's room to tell them about our new baby.  For a while now, they have been asking for "100 more babies so we always have someone to play with."  I would always reply, that only God could give us another baby so we had to ask Him!  I know my little girl has been praying for a sister too.  As I sat down on her bed, I told them that mommy was going to have a baby!!  They all just sat there for a second, speechless.  Then out of no where, Hannah looked at me and said "It's going to be a girl baby, and we're going to name her Glory!"  This really took me by surprise!  Hannah has never said, or heard the name "Glory."  I was shocked!  You see, I really believe that God speaks to us through other people.  I really believe He was speaking to me through my precious daughter.  It was my decision now, to hold on to that and believe it, or let doubt creep in and try and tell me different.

Now, I would have been equally happy if it was a boy!  I have 3 wonderful sons and would gladly welcome another.  I would not, however, like to try and explain to my little girl why God didn't give her a sister.  The moment I saw those two lines, my spirit knew that God was answering her prayers for a sister and building her faith in doing so!  How exciting is that!!  So today, seeing those sweet little girl parts stirred up my spirit and reminded me of how faithful our Father is! 

Then, He has to go above and beyond!  He spoke to me through my friend!  I texted everyone to tell them the good news and she called right away to congratulate me!  Then proceeded to tell me that this little girl is such a blessing!  That when she received my text, she was listening to a song on the radio, the words she heard as she read the text were "for thine is the Kingdom, the power, and the Glory" what a confirmation of my daughters words 3 months ago.  My friend had no idea about what my daughter had said either!  God works in mysterious ways!!

Now, my husband doesn't think Glory is a name.  Convincing him is really not going to happen in my power.  I know what I heard, and feel and believe.  And I know only God, can speak to my husband in a way that will make him believe this name "Glory" is from God himself.  I will be praying for God's will as far as this name goes.  In the meantime, I will call her Glory! 

Glory to God,

Crunchy Katie 

Friday, September 9, 2011

My Stove

I worked out today.  But not the way you may be thinking.  You see, my stove is a mess!  I mean a nasty, cooked on, brown mess.  I know, I know.  I should just clean it every time I use it, but with 4 little ones and a house to maintain you'll understand how things like that slip through the cracks. 

It was a good work out.  My arms are sore.  My back is a little sore too.  And I smell like the lovely cleaner I used to scrub, and scrub, and scrub the burner covers.  Although I'm sore, I am proud.  I feel like I just ran a marathon.  Not physically, but emotionally.  I accomplished something.  Something hard.  And now when I look at my stove, I am happy and can spark a tiny smile knowing that I did that!!

Now, to keep it that way.  I have a wonderful husband, who is not afraid to help clean.  He is the most helpful husband I know.  He vacuums, sweeps, does dishes and does laundry.  But he doesn't do stove tops!  You see, we have a system.  After I cook dinner, and we eat.  I go off an bathe the children and get them ALL ready for bed while he cleans up.  It works out great!  And I am thankful for the help.  I can't imagine having to bathe all the kids, brush and floss their teeth, put their pajamas on, read stories for all, prayers and hugs and kisses and then....CLEAN the kitchen!!  Did I mention how thankful I am to have a husband who cleans!! 

So, I've decided that after I'm done cooking, before I serve everyone dinner, I am going to clean the stove!  Then it will be done and I won't have to say my only workout for the day was scrubbing the burners!!

On another note!  I received my Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Stretch Oil in the mail today!  I will give a try for the next few days and then post my review along with a giveaway from Earth Mama Angel Baby!!  Stay tuned!! 

Happy Scrubbing and Blessings,

Crunchy Katie

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Check out this baby shower at Love, Sara Sophia!

So, as you all know, I've become addicted to giveaways.  This is how I found the blog...Love, Sara Sophia.  She is so creative and awesome and is throwing her friend the most amazing baby shower.  She calls it Happy Day Shower and is giving away some freakishly good things.  You just HAVE to go over there and check it out. 

I just entered a giveaway for 10, YES I said 10....Rumparooz!  I just can't believe it's 10!!!  Head on over to her blog, Love, Sara Sophia and get to entering!!

Crunchy Katie

Monday, September 5, 2011

Stretch Marks?

When I was pregnant with my first I faithfully applied Palmers Cocoa Butter daily!  I was just determined not to get any stretch marks.  As my due date crept closer and closer, I began to get cautiously exicted!!  With just 4 weeks left to go, I still had absolutely NO stretch marks on my belly!!  Just a week later, my joy faded as I looked in the mirror and found the bright red lines I'd been hoping to avoid.  They were there, only to be seen by me in the mirror, as they were so very low on my belly.  I sighed, and just decided that it was part of pregnancy and I should just embrace it.  They are trophies, right?? 

Well, the last few weeks they continued to grow steadily up my large belly.  Then my baby came and I forgot all about them.  When he was just 5 months old, we discovered we were expecting again.  I totally gave up on the lotion this time.  The stretch marks that hadn't yet completely faded from the first pregnancy just continued to make their way up.  Growing almost like a climbing vine up my belly!  This pregnancy a new mark began to appear.  In high school I had my navel pierced.  The tiny, closed up hole was now beginning to stretch. 

When baby #2 was 10 months old, we once again got pregnant!  This baby was a whopper!  I had the biggest belly yet!  The lovely stretch marks had now reached nearly to my belly button.  The navel piercing scar was also growing up and up!!  These marks were now seriously starting to look like battle scars!! 

With #4, I was a bit smaller and the marks seemed to stay put.  I'm sure all these marks were partly there because I popped out 4 kiddos in just a smidge over 4 years!!  My stomach never had a chance to competely shrink! 

Now, almost 4 years later.  The stretch marks are there, but well faded.  They are a part of me forever.  My belly button is a sad, sad sight to see.  It will never be cute again.  Baby #5 is on the way and I am desperate to try anything to help my skin stretch gracefully!!

Luckily, Earth Mama Angel Baby has chosen me to review a product just for this purpose!  I am so excited to receive this product and start trying it out!  So keep an eye out for my next review coming very soon!

What have you used to hopefully help with stretch marks during pregnancy?  Did it work??

Blessings,

Crunchy Katie

Sunday, September 4, 2011

I've become a giveaway entering addict

You may know that our family is expecting a gift from God, in the way of a baby, in Feb!  Being that this is #5, and that it's been 4 years since our last, we are feeling the tug on the checkbook in the preparing for baby department.  So....

I've started entering for every giveaway pertaining to baby gear and diapers that I can find.  I recently won my first one and now I really have the bug! 

Today, I was lucky enough to find a great giveaway over at MamaB's Blog.  One of her VERY lucky readers (hopefully ME) will get a chance at the Peg Perego Pliko Switch System.  This baby retails for over $1000!!!

Just the thought of winning this gives me the jitters!  Imagine being able to tell my hard working husband that we don't have to buy a car seat, or a stroller!!  It would, no doubt, make his day (possibly year) and mine too!! 

If you or a friend are in need of a travel system head on over to MamaB's Blog and get to entering!!

Blessings,

Crunchy Katie

Saturday, September 3, 2011

Sickness

This week my 2nd grader missed her first day of school due to sickness.  She said her head hurt and it felt like she was upside down.  I took her word for it, even though I also knew she was a bit nervous about going back to school after the 4 day vacation caused by Irene.  The cough that accompanied the strange upside down feeling solidified my decision to let her stay home.  We doctered her up with lots of vitamin C and homeopathic remedies.  She drank water on demand, and stayed in bed for a day.  Aside from the cough, which is still lingering, she is all better.  Unfortunately, when you have 4 kids within five years, the sickness tends to hang around the house for a week or two. 

So now I have my baby, he's 3, with a mini fever.  He looks a bit under the weather to me, though he can't seem to tell me where he feels bad.  We trust the fever will do its job and fight off the germies that are making him feel bad.  This is why I never use fever reducing meds on my kids.  I have faith his God created immune system will do exactly what it is supposed to do.  The fever is just that, proof that his body is working correctly. 

I read an article one time, by Dr. Sherri Tenpenny, about how parents shouldn't fear fevers.  You should read the article, it's just eye opening!!  It all just made sense to me.  I have always felt that everything was created by God to work in harmony.  So I felt comfortable putting this into practice with my family's bodies.  I haven't been dissapointed.

When the "bugs" are going around, my kids usually get better faster than other children, who are given meds.  We let the virus run it's course which has seemed to only take 1-2 days.  The children who are given fever reducing meds seem to be sick for twice as long.  See this article.  I get a bit excited these days when I actually agree with something the AAP has to say!!

Fear also plays a big part in how we treat our illnesses.  These days we are completely bombarded with commercials, most of which serve only one purpose.  To scare us into taking this drug or that drug, or hurrying to our doctor to get the newest, greatest vaccine that will allegedly protect us from this disease or that disease.  Doctors ask us horrible questions like, "You don't want your child to DIE do you?"  My point is basically that modern medicine is sold to us through FEAR. 

But there is hope.  We don't have to be afraid!!  The most important thing you can do is make informed, educated decisions where healthcare is involved.  If your doc says you need this drug, go research it before you pop a pill.  If there is a commercial saying that parents need to get the new pertussis vaccine to help protect their babies, go research it.  And I don't mean check out what the CDC has to say about it.  RESEARCH it.  Dig everything about the drug, or vaccine up.  Check the ingredient list, read the manufacturers inserts for side affects and efficacy.  You might just be surprised what you find out!! 

Also, start researching how the human body works!  For me, this was a great step toward freedom from fear when it came to sickness.  Once I understood a bit more about how the immune system worked I was far less worried when my kids came down with something.  I was even more confident that their immune systems were made to handle a lot.  Now, I find ways to strengthen our immune systems when we're healthy so when a virus comes around, we are ready to fight it!  And we fight it without fear!! 

Here are the links to some of my favorite websites.  I spent hours and hours scouring the internet and found the most info from these places!  Check them out!!

You will find a lot of info on vaccines on Dr. Tenpenny's and Mary Tocco's websites.  Be open minded and take it all in.  Everyone has to make their own decision, and the one that is best for their families.

Dr. Sherri Tenpenny

Dr. Mercola

Mary Tocco

And of course my favorite way to research, Google!!  If I am wondering about something, I google it.  It's a good way to find tons of info to sift through!  

Have fun!!

Crunchy Katie



Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Let's Talk Diet and Exercise

I don't mean diet, as in trying to lose weight diet.  I mean, what do you eat daily?  How often do you eat?  How much do you eat? 

When I was in the Marines and taking care of my three oldest we were a Happy Meal every other night family.  And the other nights it was usually Hamburger Helper or mac n cheese.  Okay, okay, I'd throw in some canned green beans with the Helper, but that was the extent of the healthy eating in our house. 

My kids were always sick.  With three of them in daycare full time, it seemed like every week I was home with one of them.  They always had some sort of drainage coming from their little noses, and had a cough that never seemed to go away. 

We were unhealthy and unhappy. 

In January of 2011 I decided I was going Paleo.  I had been CrossFitting for a couple months and was ready to see some real results.  If you don't know what CrossFit is, check it out.  It is hard but fun.  You are always pushing yourself to do better.  I LOVE it!! 

Paleo is a lifestyle change.  A serious one.  No pasta, rice, potatoes, dairy.  Basically you are eating what you could go outside and gather and hunt.  Meat, veggies, fruit, nuts and seeds.  You eat often, every couple hours, to keep your metabolism up.  And of course drink tons of water.  I dedicated myself to this.  CrossFit and Paleo.  And within two weeks my stomach was getting flatter than it had ever been.  I was so excited!  I felt magnificent!  I had so much energy.  I was less stressed out, and just all around a happier person.  After about 2 months I had lost a few inches off my stomach and was really beginning to see some great definition on my arms.  I looked better than ever.

Then I cheated.  The effects were drastic. I was so sleepy I had to take a nap and my tummy hurt bad too.  I just knew that it was the wheat.  Now I know what not to do.  So I try hard to keep up with the Paleo, but bread is like an addiction!  It's so hard to quit, even when you know it will make you feel horrible. 

In June, after a 7 day juice fast and a 12lb weight loss, we discovered that baby #5 was on the way.  What a surprise and a blessing!!  With that came the dreaded morning sickness.  I tried to stick to my fruit and veggies and meat, but it all made me sick to my stomach.  With 4 kids to entertain for the summer, I had to do something to help with the nausea.  Bread was the answer.  I wanted muffins, and toast, and english muffins.  I made myself eat my daily eggs for the protein.  Fruit was not my friend, at all.  Just thinking about it made my stomach churn.  As a result, I have gained about 15lbs.  All in my tummy!!  I know, what you're going to say, "but you're pregnant...your belly is supposed to grow"  and I know this, however, you and I both know that during the 1st trimester the baby is about the size of a lime at it's biggest!!  A lime does not weigh 15lbs!! 

Now that I'm in my 2nd trimester, and feeling much better, I'm ready to get back on the Paleo band wagon!!    And I'm training for the Marine Corps Marathon which is October 30th.  I'm determined to have the healthiest pregnancy yet!! 

Are you feeling sick and tired?  Are you wanting to lose a little weight??  Give Paleo a try.  I promise you'll feel better than ever!!

Blessings,

Crunchy Katie     



 

 

     

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Rockin' Green Review and Giveaway

Have you heard of Rockin' Green?  They are a great company that makes detergents (and other cleaning products) that are environmentally friendly and easy on sensitive skin.  All Rockin' Green products are free of SLS, Phosphates, enzymes or optical brighteners, dyes.  Oh and they are completely naturally scented!  Speaking of scents, Rockin' Green has some super cool names for their scents. Motley Clean, Lavendar Mint Revival, Smashing Watermelons, Bare Naked Babies (unscented), Mighty Mighty Marshmallow, Earth Wind & Orchids, and Rage Against the Raspberries.  They also come in 3 different formulas.  Each is designed to work best in different water types.  There is Soft Rock (for soft water), Classic Rock (for average water, like mine), and Hard Rock (for hard water). 

A great friend of mine over at Life With My Littles has been raving about this soap since I've known her.  Whenever we get a stain, dirty rug, or stinky shoes she always says, "Soak it in Rockin' Green!"  She's always happy to send me home with a few tablespoons too!  So since Rockin' Green was nice enough to send me a sample I figured it would be a great time to test it out on my favorite shoes, my Vibram Five Finger Bikilas!  I wear these shoes every chance I get and they tend to get a bit smelly after a couple days.  So here's what I did...

I received 3 samples of Rockin' Green in the Motley Clean scent (this scent is just divine, I can't get enough of it!).  Each sample will do 2 loads in a top loader or 4 in a front loader. 

I used one heaping tablespoon in a soaking tub, took my stinky Vibrams, and....

...began soaking them in warm water.


I soaked mine over night and this is what I found...

Ewwww...that's nasty!!  Rockin' Green really sucked all the dirt out of these things! 

Now, on to the washer they go!  I threw mine in with a load of towels, added about 1 1/2 tablespoons of Rockin' Green, and started a cold wash.


Once the wash was done, I hung my formerly smelly shoes to dry.

 I am happy to announce that they are currently stench free and ready for wear.  My feet are happy once again!!  Yay!!



I have to say that I am very impressed with the performance of Rockin' Green.  They really got the smell and stains out of my favorite shoes.  The towels that I washed along with my shoes were soft and had a great, light smell. 

Come February when our new little bundle shows up, you can bet your bottom dollars that I'll be washing those tiny, sweet little cloth diapers in Rockin' Green.

Now, for the fun part!! 

Rockin' Green has graciously offered up a 45/90 load bag of Rockin' Green detergent, in any scent and formula, to one lucky winner!  Here's what you have to do to enter.

Mandatory Entry:

Follow my blog publicly on GFC.

Extra Entries:

Like me on Facebook   and leave a comment about it.

Follow me on Twitter and leave a comment about it.

Mention my blog in a tweet and post the URL in the comments.

Mention my blog on Facebook and tag me.

Like Rockin' Green on Facebook and leave a comment about it.

Follow Rockin' Green on Twitter and leave a comment about it.

All entries will be checked.  This giveaway will run until September 12th, 2011 at 3pm EST and is open to U.S. residents only.  The winner will be chosen via Random.org and emailed.  You will have 48 hours to respond to the email or another winner will be chosen.

Good Luck!!

Crunchy Katie

**I received these samples from Rockin' Green in exchange for this review.  No monetary compensation was received by me.  These opinions are my own and may differ from yours.

Sunday, August 28, 2011

We survived Irene!

Just a quick post to let you all know that we survived Irene.  We lost power for about an hour last night around 5:30.  Then overnight, through the worst of the storm, our power stayed on!  We had all of our kids sleep in our room on the floor just in case.  It was a normal night in the house with a bit of wind and rain outside.  I am happy to report that we all slept great! 

See you all tomorrow when I post my first review and giveaway!!  Who wants some Rockin' Green???


Until tomorrow,

Crunchy Katie

Saturday, August 27, 2011

A little encouragement

Hi all!  So glad to see a few more followers!  I wanted to get something posted before our power goes out tonight.  If it does, I'll be back as soon as I can!  And when I return, I will be posting my very first review and a giveaway!!!  Rockin' Green baby!!

I lead a Bible study for a few women in my area.  We are studying a book by Joyce Meyer called The Battlefield of the Mind.  This book transformed my life a few years ago.  It helps you realize that the daily battles we face and the choices we make are all affected by the thoughts in our mind.  Having said that I have to admit that since this study began I have been under attack by the father of lies himself, Satan.  And not surprisingly it's all in my head.   

Let's face it.  We all want to think and even pretend that our marriages are just peachy, that we are the model wife, and the mother every child would want.  But honestly, it's not that easy!  Marriage is a CHALLENGE!!!  And motherhood...well, that's a whole other post.  There is a simple verse that has taught me a lot about how husbands and wives function.

Ephesians 5:22 says- Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. 

Now, that verse can seem a little hard to swallow.  SUBMIT...I have to what???  But let's not focus on just that word.  The verse goes on to say ...as to the LORD.  I don't know about you, but I do find joy in doing things that please my Savior.  So, if we apply that to our husbands it simply says that we should be doing things that will please our husbands. 

Verse 33 says....and the wife must respect her husband. 

This verse and the few before it pertain to husbands, I'll get to that later.  For now, lets focus on the end of verse 33.

Respect.  It is something every man needs.  They were created that way.  It really is vital that they receive respect often.  Now, the areas that different men crave respect varies.  My husband happens to need respect the most in the area of finances.  If I go over budget, even a bit, he feels completely disrespected.

So my challenge then, is to stay in the budget he gives me.  It is hard, I'm sure you understand, for a woman to walk past a good sale at Target and not purchase something.  It is especially hard for me.  I consider myself a bargain hunter.  Rarely ever do I buy something for full price.  So everytime I see a sale, I should think to myself how it would make my husband feel if I bought the $4 jeans and then had to go over budget to buy milk.  Then it should be easy for me to make the wise choice.  But, it's not.  That is why marriage is such a challenge.  We have to constantly put our husbands before us.  And, if your anything like me, this is so HARD!! 

A challenge for you then is to examine the areas in your marriage where you could offer more respect to your husband.  Post a comment.  It is very encouraging for us all to share our challenges.  You never know who you're helping by posting an honest comment!  Let's get to it.

A prayer for wives everywhere.

Lord, please help us to be the kind of wives that are pleasing to you.  Help us to submit to our husbands in everything, and to give them the respect that they were created to receive.  In Jesus name.  Amen.

Pray for those affected by Irene, and for the safety of those still in her path.

Blessings,

Crunchy Katie 

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Earthquakes, hurricanes, and the first day of school...OH MY!!

For those of you who haven't heard, there was an earthquake in Virginia on Tuesday.  We are in Maryland and felt every second of it!  I am a calm person, and having been through a couple of prior earthquakes, I was not too shaken by it.  My kids must have inherited my calmness because they weren't phased either!  My littlest boy, who is 3, was with a friend at the time and using the bathroom when the quake began.  He was a bit freaked out, but everyone was safe. 

The next day was the first day of school!  We woke up extra early and walked to school together.  Neither of them even wanted a hug from mom.  My boy, even wiped away the kiss that I had to beg for!  Oh my are they growing up.  I was sad to see them go, but happy that they are growing into comfortably independent children.  Not to mention, now I will have a little more time to get stuff done around this place!    The Kindergartner starts next week and it will be just me and my little helper!  Eli is a fall baby, and will have to wait another year for PreK.  So he'll learn a lot this year about cleaning and organizing.  We have a lot to do before baby #5 gets here in February. 

Now it looks like Hurricane Irene is on her way and she's strangely heading right for the Northeast!!  I've been through tropical storms as well, so I am believing all will be fine.  I need to stock up on water and maybe some matches, cause I'm sure we'll lose power.  Canned foods probably wouldn't be a bad idea either.  I guess that means and after school trip to the store. 

So we've been quite busy around here the past couple days.  Lots of activity going on in a lot of areas.  I try to stay calm by focusing on my Comforter, Jesus!  He's always there when I need to talk, and He always knows just what I need to hear!  I firmly believe that for every problem we face, there is an answer for how to fix it in the Bible.  Try it out.  What troubles are you facing?  Go to biblegateway.com and search for a word that describes your problem.  Then be encouraged as you read stories and verses about it.  Let me know what comes up!!

Until Next Time,

Crunchy Katie

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Excitement for the day

Today will be busy for me.  Meeting all 3 of my school aged children's teachers.  Practice walks to each school to get the timing down.  Packing backpacks.  Early bedtime (yahoo!!!).  But I have to say the most exciting part of my day has been checking my blog and discovering I have a couple new followers!!  YAY!!! 

Having a few blogs I follow, each with hundreds (or more) followers, has left me itching to get more of my own!  I figured putting myself out there on Facebook would help a bit, and it did!  I also started tweeting!  So go follow me there too my name is KrunchyKatie!!

Along with being a beginner blogger, I've also started entering giveaways for cloth diapers.  I am expecting baby #5 in Feb. and will be faithfully cloth diapering.  With so many brands and types of cloth diapers out there I figured I should just enter every giveaway I find and hopefully win a few so I can see which I like best!!    I have to give a quick mention to my great friend over at Life With My Litles http://lifewithmylittles.blogspot.com/ .  She has been teaching me the ropes of blogging and cloth diapering! 

But you and I both know that the best way to discover what you like best is to try it out yourself!!  So I am.  On many levels.  Here's to stepping out on many new adventures!  Glad you're going with me!

Crunchy Katie

Monday, August 22, 2011

This is me

Hi!  I'm Katie.  It is great to meet you!

I am here because I really felt it was time for me to start blogging so I can share all of the things I've learned over the years about faith, birth, marriage, parenting, and living naturally.  I am very passionate about all of the things I listed, so I'll go through each and let you know just a bit about what I've learned about them.

Faith:  First off I must say that the most important thing to me is my relationship with Jesus Christ.  Without Him, I wouldn't be me, and I wouldn't be where I am today.  I give Him all the glory for all of the wonderful things I have experienced in my life and thank Him for the tough times that brought me here.  I am growing daily in Him.

Birth:  My learning journey about birth started when I witnessed the birth of my little sister at the age of 5.  My mom gave birth at a freestanding birth center and brought my baby sister home the same day.  It just seemed so normal.  So when I became pregnant at 22 I knew I wanted something similar.  I had witnessed a couple medically managed births and was certain that I wanted to be far away from machines and doctors.  So, my husband and I chose a freestanding birth center for our first water birth.  A year later we had another blessing at home in the water.  Then a year later a hospital land birth.  Followed by another wonderful home water birth.  We are pregnant again, and are planning a family home water birth in Feb. 2012.  I am an advocate of natural, empowering, mother led birthing and spend a lot of time raving about birthing naturally.

Marriage:  I have been married for almost 9 years to a wonderful man.  He serves our country faithfully in the Marines.  It has been a journey for me to learn how to be the kind of wife that God would want me to be and the kind that my husband needs.  It is a daily process that will never end.  Thankfully there is new mercy every morning from my Savior! 

Parenting:  Well, here is another part of life where we are constantly learning!  Each day brings new and exciting challenges and changes.  The number one thing I know that children need is unconditional love!  I love each of my children for who they are and enjoy the unique joys they bring to our family.

Living Naturally:  In the beginning of my life as a wife and mother the only "crunchy" thing I did, was have a water birth at a birth center.  Other than that I went with the grain.  I listened to the pediatrician faithfully.  We ate processed, boxed foods.  Took whatever drugs the commercials said would help.  And that was fine.  I had 3 babies in less than 3 years and I felt like I was at the pediatrician weekly.  Each time they were getting jabbed with needles.  I started wondering what was in all those shots so I began to research the ingredients of vaccines. I was shocked by what I learned.  This discoveries I made about vaccine ingredients led me to wonder what was in everything I was putting on and in my body.  Shampoos, lotions, make-up, food.  I researched and researched and researched some more.  I am still researching!!  I have learned so many things about living naturally and trusting in God's perfect design of our bodies.  Today we strive to stay healthy by eating clean, medicating only when completely necessary and by being active and happy!! 

In this blog  I will share with you my favorite products, recipes, books and websites that have helped me become Crunchy Katie!

Blessings,

Crunchy Katie