Friday, May 18, 2012

25 Ways to Wear a Scarf in 4.5 Minutes! - An AMAZING YouTube Video

I borrowed this post from my FAB sister's blog (The Chic Squad), who borrowed it from the Wonderful blog of Wendy's Lookbook.  This video is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!!  I love to wear scarves; they are a great compliment to an outfit.  And now you have 25 ways (with detailed instructions) to wear your scarf, AND you also have 2 new blogs to bookmark.  ENJOY!!


The Chic Squad: 25 Ways to Wear a Scarf in 4.5 Minutes! - YouTubeI honestly cannot remember the last time i wore an outfit without a scarf. I realized it has become a part of my "look" when i randomly ran into a friend the last time i was in New York. We bumped into each other at an event at the Javit Center and she said, "I wasn't sure that was you until i saw your scarf!" I can't explain how excited i was when Michelle made this scarf tutorial! I've tried about 10 of these style but i still have 15 more to go :-) This weekend while I'm in Paris i'll be trying the classic drape, the double rainbow, the braid and the turtle neck :-) Stay tuned for some photos... (by, Davida Selby- The Chic Squad)



Sunday, May 13, 2012

Things I learned from my Mommie

All of Us at Mommie's 50th Birthday Party
On this Mother's Day I want to take a moment to thank my mother, Elsie A. Blankson, for all that she has done.  She is an amazing woman, who single-handedly took care of the four of us, and we NEVER wanted for anything.  If I may say so myself, we all came out pretty well.  As a mother myself now, I can relate to many of the things she taught us that didn't quite register at the time.  As a mother you want to provide for, teach, protect, and love your kids.  She did that and more for us, and we Love an Appreciate you Mother.  You are GREAT!!!
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO YOU AND ALL MOMMIES!!!
A Young, Fly Elsie
IN honor of my Mommie, here are the Things I Learned from MY MOMMIE.  : ) <3


1. A lady never leaves home looking good, while her house is a mess
2. Children learn what they live
3. "Do as I say, not as I do."
4. Don't have your school calling me!
5. C's are unacceptable in HER house
6. As long as you live under (her) roof......
7. Always be present AND on time
8. Don't burn your bridges
9. Travel, and experience different things.
10. Get the best education you can; no one can ever take that away from you.
11. A lady doesn't curse. (still working on that one)
12. Smoking is gross
13. Always wear nice underwear; you never know if you might have to go to the hospital.
14. Always tell someone where u are
15. I give you the world, so any man you meet would have to exceed that
16. Always respect yourself
17. Never a lender or borrower be
18. Do not lend things you can't afford to never get back
19. Don't buy things you can't afford to pay for in cash (or pay right off). SAVE!
20. You won't always be that size (boy was that the truth)
21. Do not keep carrying that baby & letting her sleep in your bed. (Of course I didn't listen)
22. It's what you know, but it's also who you know.  Network!!! (she's the Queen of this)
23. You gotta know how to cook
24. Men don't respect loose ladies.
25. Roll down your windows & save your gas. (Not one of my favorites, LOL)
26. Always have a book to read
27. If u can stay out late on Sat, u can wake up and go to Church on Sunday
28. God will provide!!!
29. Know your 4 C's (the only C's she accepts) LOL

30.  Be FAB (you deserve it)


My Mommie at Babie Onassis' delivery

I might not say it aloud, but my Mommie knew best.   : )
I LOVE YOU MOTHER.
Me & Mommie March 2012
Mom's favorite quote
The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upward in the night.   Longfellow, Henry Wadsworth


Mom's favorite song for her children
If I Could, by Regina Belle

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Teacher Appreciation & 21 Gift Ideas

Teacher Appreciation Week


Mommie Onassis is a HUGE proponent of Education.  I truly believe that education is important, absolutely essential, and it opens so many doors for us all.  No matter what you want to be, it's important to be educated on the topic, become well versed, an expert in that field.  Who does not want to hire someone who knows their field inside and out as their President, Lawyer, Realtor, Doctor, Mechanic, Plumber, Counselor, Beautician, Investor, etc.  Sometimes education is as simple as reading a book and doing some research.  Knowledge is power, so we must empower ourselves.


All of this to say, that most often that knowledge, education comes from a teacher.  They lay the foundation for what we learn, and are often the motivation to learn even more.  Unfortunately teachers in this country do not get the respect (or pay) they deserve for educating the masses.  Public school teachers, especially, are expected to find a way to reach any child that walks through the door, even with all the varying circumstances and challenges that may provide.  It's often said, "Well they get summers off," and rightfully so, when they are charged with the task of teaching your children and preparing them for their respective futures.  They literally have these precious lives, even they country's future in their hands.  Teachers are often up (off the clock) grading, differentiating, planning, researching, calling/emailing parents back, completing recommendations, and sponsoring extracurricular activities to help ensure their students' success.  This doesn't even take into account the numerous hats they wear (counselor, babysitter, referee, etc.) while in the classroom.  With minimal pay, 6 weeks off (when most have summer jobs anyway) pales in comparison to what they do throughout the 10 months.




This week is Teacher Appreciation Week, another way for us to show our gratitude for the heavy load that teachers voluntarily take on, molding us and our children.  A small token is all it takes to say, THANK YOU TEACHERS (EDUCATORS) FOR ALL THAT YOU DO!  
  


While a simple Thank You card would surely suffice to put a smile on a teacher's face, you know Mommie O' had to find some Extra FAB ways to help you show your appreciation. 
(If you are on PINTEREST follow me & for the complete folder.) Here are some ideas to help you:






1. Flowers or plant (real)
2. Donate to a charity in their name (If you know they are passionate about something or maybe they are someone dear to them are battling an illness. This is a nice gesture)
Visit http://lilluna.com/15-teacher-appreciate-gifts/


3. Picture Frames (Maybe insert your child's picture or a nice phrase)
4. Gift Card (Target, WalMart, Staples, Movies, a Spa or Nice Restaurant are good ideas)
5. Buy them Breakfast or Lunch (works well when there are several teachers)
6. Create a picture book with Current (and/or past) students (try Shutterfly)


7. Personalized mementos (my favorite site is Personalization Mall)
8.  A nice plague
9.  A good Book(s)-  Books to read, or resource books in their subject area
10. A nice journal (try Barnes & Noble)

 11. Stationery - personalized is even more FAB (Try Jakardesigns)
12.  Baked goods (Bought or homemade, if you can bake)
13. Candles
14. Perfume/ fragrances/ lotions ( try Bath & Bath Works, Sephora, or Philosophy)


15. A personal letter from the student and parents (laminate it for a permanent touch)
16. Art- especially with nice quotes
17. A teacher T-shirt 
18. Poster (to hang in class) - for Example (Teacher Poster)
20. A nice pen (Mommie O's favorite is the Swarovski Crystal Pen) - Sshhh...
21. Fill a bag/cup/basket with treat (ie. popcorn, snacks, bottled water, pens, markers, highlighters, notepads, a gift card, candies, etc.)
Customize bag at www.personizationmall.com

Visit http://www.skiptomylou.org/teacher-appreciation-ideas/

Of course, you can go more high-end (Hint: iPad) if you wish, but these are FAB & budget friendly suggestions.  The better you know the teacher the easier it is to personalize the gift.  However, any gesture of gratitude will go a long way.  So try it out, and post comments to let Mommie O' know which ideas you loved, and to share your own ideas!  
And remember, Being Smart is FAB!





Thursday, April 12, 2012

FAB Mommie of the Week Award

It is definitely a refined art to be able to be a FAB Mommie.  As Mothers we do so many things at the same time, taking care of the kid(s), taking care of the hubby, working, cleaning, cooking, and the plethora of tasks we accomplish like it's second nature.  What makes a Mommie a FAB one in the World of Mommie O' is being able to do all these things, while also taking care of yourself, and looking great doing it.  
This week, the Mommie who seemed to accomplish this in grandeur style is Blue Ivy's Mommie, Beyonce.

Credit: Beyonce.com
Whether you love her or not-so-much, the 2 things I'm sure we can ALL agree on are that:
1. She is a Mommie
2.  She is Fabulous
That being said, Mrs. Beyonce Knowles-Carter took some time off to relax and rejuvenate in the waters of St. Barts.  We all know how stressful, and hectic those first months (years) of motherhood can be, even if you have help.  As mothers we know the importance of being able to have some "me" time, so we are not mad at "Queen" Bey for getting hers in this week. 

Credit: beyonce.com
Credit: helloblueivycarter.tumblr.com


The crowing criteria for Beyonce's FAB Mommie Award is her confidence to hit the beach in a swimsuit only 3 months after having her daughter.  I don't know about you, but 4 years later a swimsuit is still my nemesis!  We might not all be able to take have our Mommie Moments in St. Barts, on a yacht, or even in a swimsuit on the beach, but we all need to take a page from Beyonce's book and remember to take those much deserved breaks.  




This week Mrs. Carter showed us how to do so, and do it well!  
So whether it's at a movie, dinner with the girls, a spa day, a weekend in Paris, or a trip to Miami, ALL Mommies must take of their capes sometimes and take a break. 

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

A Blazing Trend







According to the reliable source, Wikipedia, blazers got their name from the "blazing" RED color of the coats originally worn by the Lady Margaret Boat (rowing) Club of St. John's College, Cambridge, in 1825.  They seemed to blaze their way right into the world of fashion and prestige.  To this day blazers are still a staple in private school uniforms across the globe, military uniforms, college sports clubs, and even prestigious sporting events, such as the (golf) Masters.  Blazers signify a hybrid of style, prestige, and class.  Since its debut in Cambridge blazers have become a hot trend today, transcending its place in men's wardrobe and becoming a fashion accessory for all, women and children alike.






Blazers can be found in varying styles, materials, colors, and prices, making it a piece that can be worn year round, and are accessible to all.  A nice blazer can easily take a professional outfit into a night outfit with a simple change of shoes or bottoms.  They can be worn with jeans, a dress, a skirt, or some slacks.  There is no limit to the versatility of a blazer!  We have seen this fashion trend on the very streets we walk all the way to the fashion pages of magazines and red carpets.  Some of our most FAB celebrities have been spotted wearing blazers, Queen Bey, and even the Princess of Cambridge.  Kim Kardasian makes it a part of her daily wardrobe, whether dressed up or  in casual attire.  






There's something about adding a blazer to an outfit that makes one feel like he/she is dressed for success.  It adds that sexy yet classy edge to a casual look, and gives a very glamorous look the option of being played down.  We can't help but love Blazers for our current FAB fashion trend.  Mommie Onassis suggests a pair of sexy heels to take that look over the top.  If you are just getting into the trend experiment with a suit jacket to get the hang of it, then start with simple, cost efficient blazers at GAP, H&M, or Banana Republic.  For those already blazing the trend get versatile with it, and add color and different styles.  Make sure to follow me on Pinterest to see the Blazing looks I love for this season.  No matter how you wear it you cannot go wrong, so go ahead and BLAZE your own fashion trail.
Click the link below to see varying blazer styles and their retailers.
http://www.whowhatwear.com/website/full-article/top-five-blazers/




Pink H&M.com Blazer




              

Sunday, March 25, 2012

The Little Gym

My daughter has been going to The Little Gym since she was 9 months old.  We started with the Mommy (and Daddy) & Me classes, and we absolutely LOVED it.  Now my daughter is 4, going on 5, and LOVES The Little Gym more than I ever imagined.  She wants to spend every waking moment there.  She's in the Giggle Worms gymnastics class; she attends EVERY Parent Survival Night; she's had her last 3 birthday parties at a Little Gym; and she's recruited several of her friends to attend as well.  Most recently the Giggle Worms walked on the Saint Patrick's Day Parade, down the middle of DC, and will soon perform at the Washington Wizards Pre-game Show.  These are excellent opportunities for these children to gain confidence.




What we love about The Little Gym is that it helps the children build their confidence and coordination.  The staff their are very nurturing, and patient; their love for children is evident.  That makes me feel secure having my child in their care.  We have visited the Little Gym in Smyrna, GA, and are family members at The Little Gym in Clinton, MD.  I truly got the sense that no matter which Little Gym you attend you will have the same inviting, caring, and learning experience.  In addition to the mommy and me and gymnastic classes my daughter is a veteran in, they also offer ballet & tap dance, karate, dance and sports.  The Little Gym also has camp options for the summer time and days when students are out of  school, they host birthday parties, CPR classes, and the infamous Parent Survival Nights, where they keep the kids on a Friday Night so parents can have some time to themselves.  Elle begs to go every Friday (actually every day), and we do no object.  She comes home happy, yet worn out, with an art project in hand, and pizza (her favorite) in her tummy.  All are happy!



I could go on forever about this wonderful treasure that is The Little Gym.  I'm there so much I'm THE MAYOR on their FourSquare (wink, wink).  I would suggest parents look into joining one in their neighborhood, because it truly helps the young one with their motor skills, agility, and social interaction.  They offer a monthly payment plan as well, because we all have to be conscious in this economy (I know).  

If you are in my neighborhood, visit The Little Gym Clinton's page at http://www.thelittlegym.com/ClintonMD/Pages/default.aspx or 'Friend' them on FB at https://www.facebook.com/TLGCLINTONMD.
If not, find the one closest to you at http://www.thelittlegym.com/Pages/default.aspx


MommieO' is sure you will NOT be disappointed!

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Mommie Migraine

I was working on product reviews for Elle's Christmas toys when this migraine became determined to take me down.  I must relent and take something before my head explodes.  So tomorrow I promise to have that  Christmas toys review for you, plus 1.

In the meantime I also wanted to say, thanks for the LOVE Mommie O's world is receiving.  I truly appreciate it, and hope to keep giving you information you can use and will love, so bookmark the page.  If you have any tips for intense migraine PLEASE share, because I have things to do!!
Even though I try to play Super Mommie, divas get sick too.  : (

*Check out my theme song I left you in the Videos page.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Kids' Dental Health


So today, we made our bi-annual trip to the dentist. I must say, I LOVE where Elle goes to the dentist, and she does too!!   
* The waiting areas are very child-friendly, with clean toys
* The staff love children and are patient with them. They are SO Friendly.
* The experience is fun and not scary
* Everything is made easy to understand for parent and child


If you are near Waldorf, MD than I suggest giving any dentist at http://www.wemakekidssmile.net/ a call.  If not, then these are a few traits you want to look for when looking for a Pedia-Dentist (coining this term now).




Our very own Dr. Jessica Rubin gave us a few Tips for Kid's Dental Health.
I learned a few things myself.  Here they are (in no particular oder):

1. No more than 4-6ozs. of juice a day, and ONLY at mealtimes.


2. Brush 2 times a day, morning and night.  Parents should brush until age 8.


3. NO GUMMIES/ STICKY FOODS!! (this will be the death of Elle; she LOVES a fruit snack) Anyway, this includes gummy vitamins, gummy candy, fruit snacks, etc.  
Foods that melt off the teeth are okay, such as puddings, popsicles, etc.


4. Drink LOTS of water!!!  This means Pure water, not flavored water, sports drinks, and especially not sodas.


5. Kids should see the dentist around 12 months or 6 months after the first tooth erupts (whichever comes first).  They should visit the dentist TWO times a year.


6. Parents should start flossing kid's teeth as soon as teeth are in contact with each other.  (Let the flossing begin!!)


Thanks again Dr. Rubin.  See you in July.




Since Elle was such a big girl today she got a goody bag (another great perk), and a picture with Flossy the Parrot.  She actually looks forward to going to the dentist.  So I appreciate "We Make Kids Smile" giving my daughter such a positive experience,and helping to keep her teeth healthy!


Feel free to share your kid's dental experience, and any healthy teeth tips.


Happy Brushing (and Flossing)!!!



Introducing Babie Onassis- ELLE

Gabrielle Ashley (ELLE), my daughter and only child provides the inspiration for everything I do.  This child makes me laugh, inspired, and overall just happy beyond measure.  I wanted to take a moment to introduce her to you, as you will hear her Chronicles often.  You will also go on a journey with me to figure out how to be the best Mommie I can be without losing my sense of self (That's what this blog is all about after all).
As mothers, I'm sure you know the feeling of intense love; love that you never knew was possible.  That's the joy this child brings.  So join me as I navigate through the joys and plights of being Gabrielle's mother, among other noted titles I possess.  I'm going to need your help figuring out many things, so feel free to chime in with your advice and experiences.

I introduce you to my "Babie Onassis..." Gabrielle (Elle) Ashley
Age: 4
Sign: Virgo
Favorite Colors: Pink & Purple
Hobby: Gymnastics (LOVES The Little Gym)
Loves: Pizza, Ravioli, Dora, The Lion King, Mommy & Daddy
Dislikes: Getting her hair done, "Being told what to do" 

Babie O' & Mommie O'





Monday, January 16, 2012

The Elle Chronicles (MLK Edition)

The ELLE Chronicles: (after her intro to MLK) 

E: Mommy & Daddy I want to say grace for Dr. King. Let's hold hands. 
Us: ok, why don't you pray. 
E: "Thank u God for taking care of us. I appreciate it. Thank you for taking care of me when I was a baby. And thank u for Dr. King in heaven." AMEN
(Thats an exact quote! That's my girl!!!)

Friday, January 13, 2012

WELCOME!!

Welcome to my blog.  And a welcome to myself, to the world of blogging.  As an English and Political Science major (at Emory University), and an English teacher, I have always enjoyed writing.  However, it wasn't until I started sharing my joys and plights of motherhood that my sister and best friends introduced me to the world of blogging.  
Since this is my first entry I'll keep it simple.  I hope I find things that interest, help, encourage, and assist you with your own joys and plights of being a mother, wife, sister, daughter, event-planner, fashionista, and working woman.  In the meantime be sure to check out my intro page.


Mommie Onassis