The challenges and privileges involved in raising a child through the toddler years can seem endless. On top of power struggles and picky eating, the most obvious challenge is communicating in a way that your toddler will listen.
Tuesday, March 13
{Immediately} Improve Communication with your Toddler
Monday, March 12
Moments of Solitude
Solitude.
Why is does it seem so elusive for us mothers?
Perhaps, we make it more complicated than it has to be.
What exactly does solitude require of us?
Find out, over at MameMusings where I'm inviting you to take a little time out for solitude today.
Perhaps, we make it more complicated than it has to be.
What exactly does solitude require of us?
Find out, over at MameMusings where I'm inviting you to take a little time out for solitude today.
"Pinning!" 12 Healthy Salad Recipes
Welcome to "Pinning!"
A Weekly Pinterest Link-Up
(Share pins, meet others who love "Pinning", get inspired!)
First timer? It's simple:
then
Link up your favorite pins post for the week
and
Link back to the party
Each week a winner will be chosen to flaunt the title of "Pinning-est" for successfully wowing us with the best Pinterest find. The winner will be featured/announced in the following week's post!
Since adapting to my new way of eating I've discovered a new love of salads, so this week I'm sharing 12 delicious, healthy salad recipes I'm dying to try:
I can't wait to see what you have been pinning this week!
THANK YOU for Linking up last week!
Check out this week's Pinning-est:
Natassia of Nat'sKnapsack
See more of her pins here!
Here's your button Nat!
Natassia of Nat'sKnapsack
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Here's your button Nat!
Are you "Pinning"?
Come on, everyone is doing it.
Join us MONDAYS for weekly sharing of Pinterest finds.
Friday, March 9
Link ♥
I really want to buy this book by Donald Miller. It tells his story about making his life story a better story to tell. Check out this review for more about it.
P.S. Linking these songs to Songs That Make Us Sing Saturdays!
Thursday, March 8
KONY 2012
Be the change you want to see!
Muffintop Meltdown {V.10} Here Comes the Shred
Weight Lost Since Last Weigh-in: 4 pounds!!
Total Weight Lost: 18 pounds
Inches Lost This Week: 3 inches!!
Total Inches Lost: 23.5 inches
Points Earned:
This Week: 70
Points Balance: 77
(I cashed in my first 500 points last week for $250 cash!)
Now that I'm losing weight consistently and my clothes are starting to look pretty silly…it's time to focus on getting toned up a bit. I mean, I'm thrilled that I'm losing weight and almost halfway to my goal, but I don't want to get to goal and be skinny-flabby.
That is why this Sunday I am going to start Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred! I'm going to be totally honest with you, I am kind of intimidated. I am worried about the intensity of the workouts and how it is going to effect my body. I guess the only way to find out is to give it a go!
Either way, more exercise and activity is in order. Not to speed up my weight loss, because quite frankly if I was losing any more weight, I'd be quite concerned. I can't even tell you the shock I experienced seeing 4 pounds gone on the scale this week, while it made me happy, it also concerned me. My weight loss has yet to slow down to 2 lbs or less, which I was sure it would have by now.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining, I just don't want my weight to yo-yo and I know that slow weight loss (1-3 pounds/per week) is the best indicator that I won't just put a bunch of weight back on when I transition out of Medifast! Enough with the worries and concerns….did I mention that I can:
Fit back into my 7 jeans!!! Remember, that was Jeans goal #1!!! Now, my muffin top looks like it is back with a vengeance in this picture, but that is because the jeans are pretty tight still. I do believe I'll be able to wear them comfortably by the end of next week though!! Either way, I'm super happy. And…my muffin top in my regular clothes is almost completely gone friends!!
What little tips have you learned that have made a difference in meeting your weight loss goals?
This Week:
I'm proud of these choices:
I'm staying on plan with Medifast!
Our whole family is eating better now (even Zion has been wanting more green veggies)!
I'd like to work more on:
Exercise, period.
Refocusing on getting full nights of sleep!
I totally cheated when:
I didn't really cheat at all this week, however; I've taken in a few more calories than what the plan would have me take in, and it really hasn't upset things at all. I'm still in shock that I lost 4 lbs!
How did you do this week?
Want to catch up on my weight loss journey?
A Few Tips for Navigating Today's Healthcare System
Okay, so in a previous life…I actually did high level contract negotiations with health insurance carriers. I gave 12 years to health care administration and billing before I came home full-time to be with Zion. Over the years, I have learned quite a bit of things that industry professionals do not want you to know.
I thought today that I would share a couple of things and perhaps save you and your family from learning some tough lessons the hard way.
1. Know the lingo: wording is everything when it comes to dealing with insurance companies as well as choosing doctors and dentists.
The difference could actually cost you hundreds of dollars.
When a physician's office tells you that they "accept your insurance" what they might actually be saying is that they will file a health insurance claim on your behalf, and that they will be glad to receive whatever payment your insurance pays as partial payment for their services. In the end they will look at the amount your insurance pays and if it is a high enough payment usually cut you a "really good deal" on the balance, but either way you will still be surprised by unexpected fees.
When a medical practice tells you that they "participate with your insurance", they are saying that they have a contracted agreement with your insurance company, and accept a pre-negotiated rate for services they provide. You may still owe a copay or coinsurance according to your family health insurance plan, but you won't be responsible for amounts outside your contract, or subject to inflated fees.
The bottom line: always ask if they are a contracted participating provider with your specific plan.
2. Know the loopholes: when your health is at stake, making a little noise can work in your favor. I personally worked for a group of the top neurosurgeons in New York and only a small handful participated with insurance. However; I specialized in getting these physicians one-time contracts with insurance companies by pushing their specific techniques, specialization in a field and the failure of other surgeons to provide the same level of care.
The bottom line: it is your body, and you do have a choice on who provides your care, even when certain contracts restrict you to a network of providers. Your fight will be in not giving in to the insurance company's attempts to persuade you to settle for something else. I cannot in any way guarantee that a fight will always end in your favor, however; if it is important to you, you should fight until all options are exhausted, including all levels of appeals.
3. Know that its a business: the health care industry is a booming one. The insurance company's are trying to make money, and so are the doctors. Taking care of you is a means to an end. Sad, yes, but very true.
The bottom line: Don't just behave like a patient, behave like a consumer. Shop around. Review recommendations online before wasting your time. Don't go back to a place if you are treated poorly, the place is a dump or there are any red flags. Get second opinions. Sadly, some surgeons (I'd wager more than half) really care more about the number of surgeries they perform than your personal surgery. They may even try to do a more complex or invasive procedure than is needed.
I hope these tips help you, and feel free to send me an email if you have specific health care related questions. I'll do my best to help you find your way.
I thought today that I would share a couple of things and perhaps save you and your family from learning some tough lessons the hard way.
1. Know the lingo: wording is everything when it comes to dealing with insurance companies as well as choosing doctors and dentists.
Do you see a difference between the following two statements?
Yes, we accept your insurance.
Yes, we participate with your insurance.
The difference could actually cost you hundreds of dollars.
When a physician's office tells you that they "accept your insurance" what they might actually be saying is that they will file a health insurance claim on your behalf, and that they will be glad to receive whatever payment your insurance pays as partial payment for their services. In the end they will look at the amount your insurance pays and if it is a high enough payment usually cut you a "really good deal" on the balance, but either way you will still be surprised by unexpected fees.
When a medical practice tells you that they "participate with your insurance", they are saying that they have a contracted agreement with your insurance company, and accept a pre-negotiated rate for services they provide. You may still owe a copay or coinsurance according to your family health insurance plan, but you won't be responsible for amounts outside your contract, or subject to inflated fees.
The bottom line: always ask if they are a contracted participating provider with your specific plan.
2. Know the loopholes: when your health is at stake, making a little noise can work in your favor. I personally worked for a group of the top neurosurgeons in New York and only a small handful participated with insurance. However; I specialized in getting these physicians one-time contracts with insurance companies by pushing their specific techniques, specialization in a field and the failure of other surgeons to provide the same level of care.
The bottom line: it is your body, and you do have a choice on who provides your care, even when certain contracts restrict you to a network of providers. Your fight will be in not giving in to the insurance company's attempts to persuade you to settle for something else. I cannot in any way guarantee that a fight will always end in your favor, however; if it is important to you, you should fight until all options are exhausted, including all levels of appeals.
3. Know that its a business: the health care industry is a booming one. The insurance company's are trying to make money, and so are the doctors. Taking care of you is a means to an end. Sad, yes, but very true.
The bottom line: Don't just behave like a patient, behave like a consumer. Shop around. Review recommendations online before wasting your time. Don't go back to a place if you are treated poorly, the place is a dump or there are any red flags. Get second opinions. Sadly, some surgeons (I'd wager more than half) really care more about the number of surgeries they perform than your personal surgery. They may even try to do a more complex or invasive procedure than is needed.
I hope these tips help you, and feel free to send me an email if you have specific health care related questions. I'll do my best to help you find your way.
Wednesday, March 7
The Weekly Wrap {3.3.12}
Our first week back in NYC, and I needed a break from my camera (for the most part). Here are a couple fun things from the week:
Zion got used to going outside often in Texas, so we will be getting to the park as often as we can.
One of my besties, Alexis, celebrated her birthday at a fantastic sushi restaurant.
Zion got to paint with watercolors for the first time.
She decided it was a good idea to taste the paint too.
The Weekly Wrap {2.25.12}
Our final adventures in Texas before heading back to the crazy city life in NYC. Most of these are just the day-to-day activities and fun with three toddlers.
Then I did my first ever newborn photo shoot for my new baby niece Sofia.
Not bad for a first try right? (I have more, but I'm sure I'll get in big trouble if I post them before the announcements come out.)
The Weekly Wrap {2.18.12}
Better late than never, right?! I've been trying to make the time to get my photo editing done from my trip in Texas, but it has been way more important to adjust back to our NYC routine. Without any further delay, the first in a couple of posts highlighting our last few weeks.
We went to a pirate themed birthday party!
My mom came down for my baby niece's arrival (and to see all her grand-babies).
We enjoyed the beautiful Texas weather, played outside and had sweet treats!
And there were plenty of baby snuggles too!
A little later I will share the final week of our adventures in Texas! :)
Tuesday, March 6
11 Things & Picnik Replacement Options
I think the only person that ever tags me for these fun little meme's is Amanda. And I always seem to arrive a little late to the party. **Update: I was also tagged by Kelley!**
I want to put a little spin on this post by mentioning that I've been searching for a replacement to Picnik, and have found a few viable options. I'm going to show you my picture for this post, edited by three different online editors that I like.
Here are the rules for this 11 Things Post:
1. Post these rules.
2. Post a photo of yourself and 11 random things.
3. Answer the questions set for you in the original post.
4. Create 11 new questions.
5. Tag a few people, let them know.
I want to put a little spin on this post by mentioning that I've been searching for a replacement to Picnik, and have found a few viable options. I'm going to show you my picture for this post, edited by three different online editors that I like.
Here are the rules for this 11 Things Post:
1. Post these rules.
2. Post a photo of yourself and 11 random things.
3. Answer the questions set for you in the original post.
4. Create 11 new questions.
5. Tag a few people, let them know.
Edited with Pixlr Express
Edited with iPiccy
Edited with BeFunky
11 Random Things:
1. I've been in a little mini-funk for the past few days. I know why, I'm not getting enough sleep every night and the chronic deprivation is catching up to me. With the hubs working late, it is hard to not want to stay up just to see him.
2. This week I'm taking the initiative by starting a twice a week playgroup for parents with small children that attend my church/live in my neighborhood. I'm excited to give Zion more opportunity to connect with others, as well as meet other parents who stay/work at home.
3. I think I may be coming into my prime…seriously. I've heard that the 30's are a woman's best decade, and I've only made it halfway through my first year in them, but I'm loving it. I tell you 20 somethings, do not worry about getting here…its magic!
4. I feel like I haven't shared a big part of me on this blog, and that is my love for music. I shared a song yesterday evening for the first time, and it felt good. I am definitely a person who always has a soundtrack to my life. Music is my way of sorting and processing my feelings. I am definitely the person who listens to sad music when sad, angry when angry, etc. I find it a therapeutic way to release whatever emotional tension I'm experiencing at any given moment. I need to share more of this with you guys.
So why not share something I like now:
So why not share something I like now:
5. I have been eating so good lately. I'm hooked on veggies and low-fat everything. Again. The last time I felt this good physically was right before I got pregnant with Zion. As much as I want to get pregnant with baby number two, I am kind of hoping it won't happen for a while…I am enjoying losing weight and getting back in shape and not really ready to go the other direction again!
6. Speaking of good health and losing weight...I've been thinking about what to spend my $250 that I earned (for the weight/inches I've lost so far) on. Ideas right now include: camera accessories-tripods, case, a new outfit, new shoes…so many choices!
7. As I sit here typing this, I keep looking at the clock because I was told to be in bed, with lights out before the hubs gets home tonight. (He knows how tired I've been). I have so many other things I should be doing, but I really want to blog more than I want to clean. If you are wondering, I have about 10 minutes to get this post finished!
8. I secretly desire to do some fashion blogging. It is my hidden secret. I currently lack the confidence and the wardrobe to pull it off. I was thinking that instead I could do a spoof series. I mean, I feel like putting on a bunch of random textured/patterned clothing and colorful tights with velvet/suede ankle boots is all that it takes to be a successful fashion blogger right now. (I'm not trying to offend…but I always thought of fashionistas as trend setters…and I see a lot of the same thing across the board. Maybe I'm just really unfashionable after all! LOL)
9. I love getting dressed up. I am a girly girl in my heart of hearts. Luckily for my husband we've yet to be in a place, financially, where I could embrace my high-maintenance girly girl tendencies. I mean, Spa days are necessary luxuries, right?
10. Lately I've been thinking a lot about writing a novel. It is a book that has been stuck in my head for a couple of years now. I've annoyed the hubs endlessly because I have yet to devote the time and energy into writing it. I keep saying that this blog was my way to warm up my creativity and get me back into writing. I've realized lately I've done more photo editing than writing and so I need to regroup and refocus.
11. Sometimes I feel that the friends (you lovelies!) I've made through blogging are more real and more encouraging than some of the ones I have in real life. I'm pretty grateful for each and every person I have connected with through blogging. You guys rock!
Here are Amanda's Questions for Me & My Answers:
1. What is my favorite meal? I love a petite filet mignon or wild-caught salmon filet served with seasonal veggies, fresh baked bread, & sautéed mushrooms.
2. Did I ever (or do I still) have a nickname? What were/are they and how did they come to be? I'm going to go ahead and tell you most of them are real boring: Court (short for Courtney). Jerry gave me a really great pet name once though: missy pooh-bear love monkey. :)
3. What is my favorite time of the day? I think around 11am or so is when I really feel the best energy wise. It also happens to be close to the start of nap time and marks a little bit of me time.
4. What is one chore that I absolutely hate? Laundry. I don't mind folding it, but here in NYC we have to drag our bag of laundry a couple blocks to the laundry mat and deal with tons of other people, machines not functioning, etc. It sucks.
5. If money and gas prices were no object, what kind of car/vehicle would I love to own? A picture is needed here:
A Mercedes C63 AMG Sedan. She is a beauty. Ohhhh if money ware no object!
6. Lefty or Righty? I'm a righty!
7. Would I consider myself to be an organized person? Yes. Organized in that I like to have a place for everything and everything in its place. Unfortunately we don't have everything we need right now to make that possible. So I have organized chaos.
8. Do I get nervous speaking in front of small groups? Not really…it depends on how well I know the people. Large groups? Yes. I do get nervous when it is a big group of people.
9. Do I have a celebrity crush? Well, my husband is kind of a celebrity around here, so if he counts, yes! :)
10. If I could eat only fruits or veggies for a whole week what would it be? Veggies. Definitely.
11. What is my favorite local (non-chain) restaurant (or coffee shop, ice cream parlor, etc.)? I live in NYC…there is no way I can answer this question because there are way too many!! We were told recently about a great Thai restaurant that serves a $7 four-course lunch (on the weekends!) and so we've been loving that place. Really, there are so many places, I don't even know where to begin!
Now here are my 11 Questions:
1. You just won a trip, all expenses paid --- you have to choose the destination now, where will you go? Who will you take? Why?
2. Dark, Milk or White Chocolate?
3. Have you ever succeeded in giving up something that was bad for you? What was it?
4. You have four ingredients: eggs, milk, cheese and bread. What is the most creative thing you can make?
5. Zoo, Aquarium or Circus?
6. If there were no other factors to consider except for pure joy's sake, how many children would you want to have?
7. Do you wear glasses or contacts?
8. Have you ever been in a bad accident?
9. How many pets have you had / do you have? What kind? What are their names?
10. What is the funniest joke you have heard lately?
11. I like the dream car question, so if you could have any new car of your choosing what would it be?
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