Mommy Mondays

It's already here again...  Monday, that is.

I have to tell you, this week, on my journey through parenthood, I'm most thankful for a small tube of genius.  If you have a little one, you completely get my drift.

 

Okay, I promised I'd never publicly write about any of Daniel's issues, but this time I think I can let it by.  Only for the sake of other expectant or first-time parents who may be reading...  My little one didn't get a diaper rash this week; in fact, it was more like a neck rash that looked EXACTLY like diaper rash.  I'm guessing the moisture (a.k.a. excessive amounts of teething drool) was catching under his chin, and from wearing bibs non-stop, it just didn't have room/time to heal itself.  What did I use?  Desitin.  It's good stuff. 

What Is It?

I'll let Desitin explain itself, "...the only leading brand that contains the maximum level of zinc oxide, immediately forming a protective barrier to help heal and soothe diaper rash discomfort. Our thick, rich, hypoallergenic, pediatrician-tested formula provides overnight relief for baby’s tender skin. There’s no stronger treatment available without a prescription."  What that means in "mommy" terms is this:  when your little one's rear (or any other area) is looking as red as Clifford the Big Red Dog, you're more than likely dealing with a diaper rash.  But guess what?  You can find these "rashes" in other places where moisture backs up and causes irritation... 

Where Can I Get It?

You can find Desitin at any pharmacy, grocery store, or market in the baby section near diapers and wipes.

How Much Is It?

Walgreens sells it for $4.49.   Walmart sells it for a bit cheaper.  

You won't care how much it costs when you see how well it works!

What I've Learned 

You won't believe what I found when I was researching this...  Turns out that Desitin offers other products!  Ones that are designed specifically for rapid relief, overnight protection, and multi-purpose treatments...  You know, multi-purpose, as in the rash around Daniel's neck! 

Mommy Mondays

Monday is almost over, but I cannot let this week pass me by without mentioning what has REALLY fascinated me this past weekend...  I'll give you two words:  CONSIGNMENT SALES.

When I was pregnant with Daniel, every "mom" friend I knew told me I had to consign.  Well, I went along because it obviously is the cool thing to do.  Now, I haven't consigned anything personally, but I have hit 3 different sales 5 times in the past 4 days and done fantastically well for the upcoming season for BOTH of my boys.  I say "both" because the one in the womb counts already especially when you are needing to plan ahead and CONSIGNMENT SALE shop.

What Is It? 
Consignment sales are practically very nice yard sales that are indoors (at least that's how I'd put it).  What consignors are able to do is sell their gently used or new items for a small fee.  In most cases, consignors get 70% of what their items are priced if sold, and the "vendor" gets the remaining percentage.  Consignment sales are usually twice a year, one for fall/winter sales and another for spring/summer sales.  Both sales have children clothing, shoes, toys, furniture, baby gear, maternity items, etc.  There are even half off days at the end of every sale to get the best for your buck!  Items are usually priced at half off retail.

Where Can I Get It?
I am fairly certain that Middle Tennessee has more consignment sales than stores.  If you plan ahead, you can hit the sales almost every weekend in March and August.  Check out this site; it actually allows you to type in your address and show you every sale within a particular distance.

How Much Is It?  
To go and look, it's free.  If you are able to leave with nothing, I'm amazed!  I've been floored at the incredible deals we were able to get for Daniel and his baby brother.  I was able to get an Easter outfit (Children's Place argyle sweater, polo shirt, and pants) at a half off sale in White House for $2.  Then, I realized he'd need some shoes, and I found those brand new in a Gymboree box for a whopping $4.  Your jaw is dropped, I KNOW! 

Let Me Be Honest...
I've been to sales that honestly aren't that great...  Items were stained or ripped or highly overpriced.  I have a hard time paying a large amount for items that have been used.  However, if you hit a good sale, you'll know it.   Do your research.  If you're looking to buy shorts, see how much they are online at Gymboree or Children's Place, and make yourself feel amazing when you find them for $4.  If you're looking for sweaters, check out the Baby Gap before you pay too much!

Mommy Mondays

I'm fairly certain I've missed a few Mondays, but let me tell you that the past few weeks have been rough.  From battling a physiological kidney issue which was thought to be a kidney stone from a house full of sickness (colds, ear-infectioned baby, etc), there is no wonder why I haven't posted much. 

HOWEVER, I've become a huge fan of the Rainforest Cafe.  It's my Mommy Monday pick this week!  We took Daniel, who is ten months old, and he LOVED it!  It was so visually stimulating, not just for him but for the adults as well.  The food was amazing - a little pricey but totally worth it.  I would highly suggest taking your wild children there any day!  (Well, more so as a special treat!)

(Daniel admiring the fish at one of the aquarium tanks)

What Is It? 
A rainforest-themed restaurant that is decorated with everything from tree-swinging gorillas and high-flying butterflies to fish-filled aquariums and a bubbling, hot spring.  They have a gift shop, aquarium tanks, and great food! 

 (Daniel and his Daddy watching the bubbles at the hot spring)

Where Can I Get It?
They are spread throughout the United States, but for those of us in Middle Tennessee, it is located in the Opry Mills Mall in Nashville.  Visit their website if out of state, and click on the toucan at the top of your screen for other locations.

How Much Is It?  
It's free to visit the gift shop!  However, the real excitement begins when entering the restaurant!  Food prices range from $5 - $35 per menu item, but you honestly get quite a bit of food for the price.  Go here to see a sample menu.  We tried the Awesome Appetizer and the Blue Mountain Chicken Sandwich, and both were under $15 and delicious!  It is a special occasion kind of outing for families.  Kids eat for $1.99 on certain nights, so make sure you call your location and ask about that special!

(Daniel and Mommy visiting the "Talking Tree" in the gift shop)

Mommy Mondays

As a mom, I will do just about anything to keep my "good-eater" happy.  He's gotten into this phase where he fusses throughout each of his meals, and I have been desperate to change that.  Daniel will eat, don't get me wrong, but I needed a little boost to keep him excited about being at the table (a.k.a. highchair).

That's when Mimi, my mom, got these for him.  She claims that, even when I was a child, these were the best (and messiest) as an infant's snack. 

They really are MESSY, but Daniel will eat the fire out of them.  He's using his three teeth to bite away at each "cookie," and it's incredible.  Why?  Because he'll sit at the table after he has been fed and allow the rest of us to actually eat our dinner...  What a concept!

 

 

What Is It? 
A great finger food for crawlers and/or babies that are 10+ months.  Made by Gerber to be a wholesome snack designed to help with self-feeding.

Where Can I Get It?
Walmart, Target, Babies R Us, etc. - practically anywhere baby food products are sold.

How Much Is It? 
Ranges from $2 - $3 for a pack of 12. 

Mommy Mondays

I have realized that without the help of some fellow moms, I might have been terrible at what has become my new role in life - Mommy.  So, with that in mind, I've come up with the idea to share each Monday something that has made my life as a mommy more enjoyable, much easier, or just plain fantastic!  It may be a piece of advice or a product we cannot live without. 

This past week, Daniel and I could not have gotten through the whole "being snowed in with a baby who has a cold" without the help of this amazing video:

 

What Is It?

My husband got this DVD before we even had children at a Thomas Nelson sale, and it has helped pass Daniel's time since we really couldn't get out of the house!  Simply stated, this is a Christian version of the popular Baby Einstein videos, except Baby Faith really does "teach" babies about the Bible.  They are extremely repetitive and simple for babies 0-24 months.  This particular video, God Made Music, is all about David and Psalm 150; it reminds us that God loves children and music and uses scripture to tell kids that fact.

Where Can I Get It?

Visit the Baby Faith shop here.

How Much Is It?

$14.99 on DVD