"Mommie Guilt" - The Working Mother Paradigm

"Mommie Guilt" - The Working Mother Paradigm 

So the other morning I had a mini-meltdown..... I had my day all planned out... gym, honor roll assembly for Elle, into the office, have work done and leave by 5.  BUT, as my fellow Mommies know, it DID NOT go according to plan.  The 2-year old was still warm to the touch, she was crying inconsolably, and pulling on her ear. (We all know what that means!!)  But we had already taken her to the doctor 2 days in a row for fever; I had to take days off of work, and they could not find the source of infection. The combination of my day evaporating into a puff of smoke, the child still hollering, and me not knowing what else to do caused me to burst into tears too, while talking to the nurse.  The one thing that was clear was that Mommie had to pull herself together, take time off (again) and find the solution.  There is not time for Mommie Meltdowns!


In that moment, like several others, I felt the "Mommie Guilt" of feeling bad because the child is sick and crying, yet work (and working out) even dared to cross my mind.  Even though my NUMBER ONE priority is absolutely her health, even the thought of what Mommie needs felt like Child Treason.  Not to mention the double scoop of guilt I was served for missing Elle's Honor Roll Assembly to take the little one to the Doctor, yet again.  (Where finally the ear infection manifested itself & she got some much needed meds)

How as mothers and human beings do we deal with the Mommie Guilt?  Or better yet, why do we experience so much internal conflict for those few moments when our joy does not center around our children?  (Even typing that felt like "Bad Mother!)
I feel bad if I go out or stay out late with friends,
when I take a trip out of town or even a business trip,
when I'm too tired to cook so I get fast food,
when their hair isn't freshly done,
when I don't read a bedtime story,
when I'm too busy to watch their favorite show with them (AGAIN),
or if I miss any little function at school.
When I want to go anywhere without them I get the sobbing at the door, the begging to go, the poked out lips, and frequent phone calls and Face Times while I'm out.  But when Daddie is leaving, if they even notice, they enthusiastically wave good bye, no questions asked!  If we are keeping it real, do Daddies experience the same guilt trip when their decisions are not centered around the children? I'm going to dare to say NO....   (or maybe that's just my house)  Let's take a look at some scenarios:

Go out with your friends for the evening:
Mommie: "I can't go.  Who is going to pick up the kids?  But the babie has been sick, and I have to be there to take care of her.  You know the girls have to stay on schedule....." OR "I can go, but I can't stay long."  "Is it kid friendly, can I bring them?"
Daddie:  "I'm going out with the boys to watch the game."

The school calls with the sick child on the phone:
Mommie:  (Because we always get the phone call) - After evaluating how serious this sickness is- "Let me wrap this up and let my boss know, an I'll be there in 30 mins."  OR if it's not an immediate concern, we find a way to stay at work, but feel like the worse parent on Earth every minute that we are there & call the nurse frequently to check up on them.
Daddie: "Oh, you said the child is sick?  Is she okay?  I'll see ya'll when I get home?"

I could go on and on with scenarios that push Mommie Guilt into overdrive; however, the outcome remains the same, that Mommie has to always choose between career/ social life/ simple pleasures (ie. time alone in the bathroom, spa day, etc.) or having to feel like a "Bad Mommie."  And the kids are so conditioned to expect Mommie to do it all, that they learn to add on that extra layer of guilt. But how can we build our empires and compete with the men in the office when we are constantly having to make a choice between personal or professional, or suffer the stabbing, guilt pains?  But what you don't want to feel is RESENTMENT, which happens when you constantly put others' needs before yours then realize that life has passed you by.

My New Years Resolution for 2015 was to learn to CHOOSE ME.  It first sounded selfish, but I realized that a happy, sane, and composed Mommie has the mental capacity to take care of the family. As evidenced in the scenario above, I have not perfected this balancing act; however, I have learned to:
* Take time out for myself (for me that means a few hrs @ the spa, biweekly)
* To give Daddie some of the load without worrying (even Superheroes have sidekicks)
* Unapologetically make time to go places that I want to go. (near and far)
"Mommie Guilt" almost prevented me from taking trips to France, Rome, and Dubai, which I'm grateful I did not pass up!!  I felt so bad, and anxious the entire flight, but you know what, everyone was ok when I got back and I felt so rejuvenated.  This is not selfishness & that I have to constantly remind myself of!!  I'M AN AWESOME MOMMIE, but I'm also Human.... Everyone needs some time to themselves and should do some things that they enjoy.  We do that for our kids, so why not ourselves?

How do you handle "Mommie Guilt" and the Mommie/Work Balance?  

The Etiquette of RSVPing

While working on weddings and events, and receiving some wedding invitations over the past several months, I found it seemed extremely necessary to address the art of RSVP'ing.  It's often that one detail on the invitation that is overlooked or postponed, but it's actually one of the most important details.  "Repondez s'il vous plait" is a simple request to "please respond," and let the host know if you can make it or not, even a maybe would do.  RSVP'ing is always the polite and correct thing to do, but it's especially taboo not to do so when sent any kind of formal invitation, such a wedding or any kind of plated dinner.

Let's Review some simple responsibilities for both  the host and the invitee, so this request can be made easier.

HOSTS

When requesting an RSVP:
 1) Be Specific:  Be clear about who is invited and if there are any restrictions (in numbers, children, etc.)  It's always proper to invite a married couple as a unit (for formal events).

2) Give a specific mode of response:  Such options might be a designated email address, phone number, or website.  Make sure this is somewhere where the responses are monitored frequently and in an organized manner.  
HELPFUL RESOURCE: When I got married I used an RSVP service, and I recommend this service to all of my brides.  For BIG events, such as weddings, it's a gift from heaven!!  They organize your guest list, keep track of your responses and meal choices (if you have any), they even contact people for you if they haven't responded or there's a problem with their response.  Their customer service was impeccable, and the prices are very reasonable. YOU ABSOLUTELY MUST LOOK INTO THEM for your major events. RSVP Services dotcom

3) Use Response Cards:  If you decide to forego technology and keep it traditional, response cards are a great way to track RSVPs.  The BIGGEST thing to remember about response cards are to include an additional STAMPED envelope for the invitee to send it back to you.  It is absolutely unacceptable to send an unstamped response card envelope, and you should probably expect to receive less responses back (at least on time).  This method will cost you the additional stationery and postage, but sometimes tradition is worth the expense.
HELPFUL RESOURCE:  For a great collection of gorgeous, modern invitations, announcements, and all stationery check out Tiny Prints. Just a glimpse of the website will make you fall in love, but there's much more to come about this wonderful company. Tiny Prints Website

4) Have a Deadline:  Make sure to include a closing date for RSVPs, or trust me, people will RSVP as they are walking through the door.  This might work well if it's an informal birthday party or kid's party, but not so well for your wedding.  If necessary, if possible, follow up with those who have not responded.  Don't assume that lack of a response means no attendance, especially if the USPS is involved.

INVITEES

1) RESPOND: The first and most simple rule of all is to respond.  Even if your initial response is simply a "Maybe" until you work out your calendar, that is better than no response at all.  But always be sure to update your response if things change in either direction.

2) Follow the invitation:  This means watch your numbers.  Be sure not to invite additional people.  If it's a formal invitation the addressing will let you know if you are invited with a guest, your spouse, your family, or whomever.  If ever in doubt, simply ASK.  Be understand if additional guest are an extra expense, and cannot be accommodated.  Do not just show up with an unaccounted for person(s).

3) Timing is important:  Read and respect the deadline for the RSVP.  If you needed to double check the date set a reminder for yourself.  Know that final numbers are important for the host.  Final head counts are usually due to the venue anywhere from 10-2 days in advance, keepsakes or party bags might need to be ordered, seating arrangements made, and money accounted for.  So be considerate and respond in time (keep mail time in mind for response cards).  If you miss the deadline it's ok to reach out and ask if it's too late, but be able to accept the fault if it is too late.

4) Respond As Requested:  Whatever mode of response was requested, be sure to use that.  If the RSVP is requested by email or phone, be sure to email or call.  It's a viable exception to give a verbal, face-to-face response in the case of a house party or children's party, especially if asked in person by the host.  In the event of a wedding (or large event) always use the requested mode to respond.  It's important for the bride to be able to track responses, numbers, and names of guests.  There's no way she can remember all verbal responses. 

5) Don't show up empty-handed:  Quite as it's kept (not really), an invitation is the polite exchange for a gift (graduation, wedding, birthday, etc.)  Usually the receipt of an invitation necessitates the sending of a present (especially for milestone events and formal events).  So even if it's a hostess gift, such as a fragrant candle or bottle of wine, don't show up empty handed.  There is no excuse for this when attending a wedding!!

The true key to the Art of RSVP'ing is communication.  People just want to have an idea how many and who is attending, so kindly oblige.  You would want the same courtesy if you were hosting an event.  Weddings are stressful enough, so this is an easy way to help make the bride's load much easier.  If you're the host, these simple tips help keep you organized and reduce potential confusion.

Hope this helps!
Happy Partying!

Mommie O' is Preggo.

HELLO FAB MOMMIES!!

Mommie O' did say she had a BIG announcement to  make, and I guess the title speaks for itself.

This post will be short and to the point.  

Mommie O' and the Family are expecting Babie Number 2.

Babie O' is nothing short of ecstatic.  She's been waiting a long time to be a BIG sister.

The hubbie is equally excited, and like me, is wishing for a baby boy.

Whatever we have, we are happy and grateful, and know the Lord will bless us with a healthy little one.  I just wanted to take this moment to share with my followers, family and friends our great joy.

One great thing about this news is that all my FAB Mommies are along for this joyous ride.  We have baby products to review and share, some shopping to do, names to pick, and a wonderful sacred process and health tips to share.  I'm so excited!!!

Stay tuned for the ride....

Review of LeapPad 2 & her other Electronics

LeapPad 2, TAG Reader and MobiGo

There are very few toys for 5 year old girls that this child does not have, especially if it's educational.  When I was trying to figure out which tablet to get her there was not much assistance, because they were all relatively new.  So after having these items for a while I decided to help other parents out by letting you know how we've faired with them.

LeapPad2 - LeapFrog Website

LeapPad 2
First let me say that my daughter was VERY attached to my iPad.  She knew how to operate it better than any adult, cracked the passcode, and was actually very careful with it.  The problem was that I never got to use it myself, because she would immediately want it and would not want to give it back.  In addition, it was a pretty expensive item, and it getting broken or swiped from her was always a concern.  So I had to find her her own tablet.  I wanted something age-appropriate, not so fragile, educational, yet fun, and that's when I stumbled across the LeapPad (1st generation).

The original LeapPad was a disappointment to us.  After ripping it open, and uploading all the apps and games (which took hours to do), the tablet would not stay on more than 10 minutes at a time.  The screen would black out, and my Elle's heart would break each time.  The LeapPad was eating batteries faster then the Christmas dinner we had that evening, and Mommie was not happy.  So I returned the LeapPad to the store where many parents were waiting to get their hot hands on the Black Out Screen Tablet.  Six months later the LeapPad 2 hit the market.  It was marketed as Improved, better on energy, and uploading faster (resolving all of the problems I had), so I decided to give it a try.
THE VERDICT:  It is improved, and it is a WINNER!!

The LeapPad 2 uploads MUCH faster and it better on energy as well.  You actually have a warning, instead of the screen simply blacking out on you.  The apps are fun, educational, and there are many options (most Disney & Nickelodeon) to choose from, and if you sign up on the LeapFrog website they will often send you specials on Apps and cartridges.  My daughter loves hers, and while she does still try to swipe my iPad from time to time, she's very content with her LeapPad2 and takes it everywhere.  It's my favorite electronic devise and tablet, so I had to take time to give you all the spill on it.  It helps her practice her spelling, math, logic reasoning, has taught her how to draw Mickey Mouse, and even gives her a pet to take care of.  : )

Elle takes her LeapPad2 everywhere!

THE PROS:
* Great educational tool
* Portable and light
* Option of downloading apps & games or purchasing cartridges
* Nice size screen
* Option of using earphones (which I LOVE) and a car or wall charger
* Many apps for various ages, levels, and interests
* You can track your child's progress on the LeapFrog website to see which skills they are mastering.
* I love that there's a girlie color option

THE CONS:
* Keep extra batteries handy (even though it's better on energy)
* Buying games and apps can add up and become expensive
* It is a task to remember to upload to the LeapFrog site (which you must do to buy apps, track their progress, and claim their rewards from games)

Elle using her Tag Reader & her stack of  TAG books

TAG Reader Link

TAG READER
This is another favorite of mine, since I'm huge on teaching Elle to read (which she has quite mastered).  She loves to read, and as an Early-Admit Kindergartener, she's already reading on a mid 1st grade level. (Brag Moment)  She enjoys the Tag Reader because she can opt to have it read her the whole story or for it to only read the words that are unfamiliar to her.  The TAG pen will also spell and sound the words for the child, as well as give the name of all the pictures in the book.


THE PROS:
* Great tool for learning how to read, spell and sound out words
* Very portable
* Very affordable (although you must buy the books individually, which can add up)
* Great for learning how to read because the child can see the words at the same time they are hearing them, and it works like their finger, guiding them as they read.
* Very good on batteries
* Jack for earphones
* Great book selection for varying interests and levels
* You still have a book, even if you don't use the TAG reader to read it.

THE CONS:
* The price of books can add up, but you can purchase them in bundles or on sale (often at Toys R Us)
* The task of uploading the book to the pen from the LeapFrog site. (It's fast & easy, but another step)

MobiGo by VTech- Now there's MobiGo 2

MOBIGO
This was the first electronic, learning toy that we bought her, for her 4th birthday.  Some of the games were a little advanced for her, but for the most part it was a learning process for her and it kept her attention.  She first struggled with flipping it open to utilize the keyboard, but she eventually mastered that as well.  As she got older she neglected it a bit in favor of the LeapPad, but when she does play with it, it still manages to teach her a thing or two.

THE PROS:
* Great learning tool, especially for spelling and learning patterns
* Fits perfectly in little hand
* Has a jack for earphones
* Has a touch screen and keyboard option
* Gives children an option for easy or difficult level for each game
* Child's level and progress can be tracked online (make sure any other uses use the 'Guest' option so scores are not skewed).

THE CONS:
* Chunky design, which is difficult to get in and out of the case.
* Seems to lend itself more to toddlers and those starting out.
* Keypad can be confusing since children are unfamiliar with the typing screen.  It's difficult for them to locate the letters in time.
* There are not many options of cartridges
* Small screen (especially if children are iPad friendly)

Elle shares the MobiGo fun with her younger cousin, Quincy

Hopefully this helps those parents, who like me, are technology and educational nuts.  Many of these tools are a great way to blend the two worlds, teaching our children while also letting them have fun!

HAPPY SHOPPING!

The Elle Chronicles- Getting Out of Mommie's Bed

Can someone please help me get this child out my bed?!

Starting early... She looks like she's having Waaaay too much fun.

Let me start by saying that I know it's my fault, and I'll accept that, but 5years later the child has officially moved into our bedroom.  I'm not quick to say this, but my mom did tell me so!!
The day we got home from the hospital she said, "Don't put that baby in that bed with you!"  But she was my new baby girl, and I was not letting her out of my sight; I was going to do it my way, and I did not want to hear it.  Plus I had to breast feed her, and every other excuse we come up with to keep the babie in the bed.
MORAL of the story:  Experience (parents) often know best.  (But don't tell mine I said that)
This is now the sound advise that I give to every new mother!

The "Why Am I In this Crib?" Look

Here we are, 5 years later, and I feel like I have tried everything:
* We've redecorated her room with all her favorite things and colors
* We added a TV/DVD and all the different night lights you can find
* We've slept in there with her the first few days until she fell asleep
*  I've slept there alone to show here how appealing her bedroom is ........  

       AND NOTHING WORKED........

We have had sporadic consecutive days of success, only to see the return of Elle to our bedroom, with credit to her Daddy.  On some occasions she'll fall asleep there then jump into our bed after her 2AM bathroom break, with acceptance from Daddy.  Or sometimes she'll fight and resist sleeping in her room by sitting outside our door and crying, only to to saved by Daddy.  I know, I know, I see the trend here.  I get it.  But again, what is Mommie to do when Daddie and Babie are broken hearted?
Does their collective "pain" outweigh the pain I feel when Elle's legs kick me in my tummy or my head during her wild sleep; or the frustration I feel when she lets one rip under our covers during the middle of the night?  At this point, I'm choosing peaceful sleep, fresh air, and no back pain over the distraught child in her perfect, pretty, pink room.  Now to get Daddie on board too.  Pray for me you all!

The worse part of this Tragedy is that Elle has the power in this situation (I hate so say, but I'm being honest here).  She knows exactly what to say and do to get Daddie to save her.  She knows Mommie made a huge mistake and is paying the price.  

Here are The ELLE Chronicles for this week.

This is Elle having a conversation with my sister (TeeTee) and her roommate (Celeste) about her sleeping in Mommie's bed still.

Celeste:  So Elle you have a pretty room, why don't you ever stay in it?
Elle:  I go in there to watch movies, but that's it.
Tee:  So why don't you ever sleep in your room.
E:  It's because Mommie made a mistake putting me in her bed when I was a babie.
    (Collective gasps)
C:  So what are you going to when a new babie comes?  That babie will have to sleep in the bed with Mommie and you'll have to sleep in your room like a big girl.
E: NO! Well if she does that she'll be making the same mistake again.  So she has to put the new babie in her bed, and I get to stay.


What do you say to that logic??  Not only is she not moving, she has it all figured out too. HELP ME!!

Elle (finally) spending time in her room (not sleeping though), with her TeeTee.

When I figure it out, I'll be updating you with successful tips to get your child out of your bed (because I know I'm not the only one).  Because whatever works to get Elle out of our room, will work for ANY child.  Stay tuned!

Welcome Home

MOMMIE'S BACK!!!!

I took a hiatus to get some things together, and get my business back up and running.
Elle-ite Consulting Group, Wedding & Event Planning, will make a big splash in 2013.
Thank many of you for sticking with me, and anticipating the glimpses into the World of Mommie Onassis.
I have so much to share with you, and I look forward to getting blogging!!

And Happy 2013 : )

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! - YouTube: I 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)

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

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!

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. 

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

              

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!