Mother's Helper

A mother's helper: usually an over-eager, baby-lovin' 10-12 yr old that you can pay $2/hr.

Me? Over the weekend, I had a lovely young lady I've known for the past 9 yrs, specially flown in from NYC, one of the most fashionably fabulous people I know (but she doesn't know she is that fabulous), caring helpers ever.


We miss you eemo!

Brace Yourself.. it's gonna be HOTT

A long awaited vacay is to be fulfilled this week in the most non-vacay place in my mind. But I am so very looking forward to it. My bro and I have planned a few activities for Isabella (but I think we're secretly just using her as an excuse to do things my parents would never have done before). For instance, we're renting a lakehouse and boat for 2 nights over the 4th. My parents never vacation, do not know how to vacation, don't ever go on vacations... so, we'll see what happens. My mom tried to shorten the trip in half but we ganged up on her: Ahrim, Andrew, Isabella--yup, she counts too, Roe--just by default vs Grandma Hwang. We win!

So, I've been on the lookout for the a bathing suit for some time now. I can't quite sport the string bikinis I used to have a love affair with but I don't want to just cover myself up in an ugly mom bathing suit to match ugly mom shoes. I've been pleasantly surprised! JCrew and GapBody have quite the selection and if there are stores near you, you'll find a ton on super duper sale (I saw some at Gap for less than $6!). There are a variety of sexy one-pieces that have strategic ruching, one-shouldered, bandeau one-pieces... and sporty tankinis and bottoms. This year, I've opted for an orange-red tankini and bottom set. Add a nice, wide brimmed floppy hat, comfortable flip flops like these, and a comfortable (non-fussy) coverup!

It's gonna be a HOTT week!

Mommy Makeover

Whoever coined the phrase, "the joys of motherhood" had a sick sense of humor. Until recently did I realize they were just being sarcastic! Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Isabella but motherhood isn't on my good side--yet. And whenever I have "those" moments, it just brings a smirk to my face; if only I could get my hands on whoever thought of that phrase, I'd give them a piece of my mind.

However, the irony of joy from being a mom shouldn't let one look beat down; nor should one give in and wear ugly-mom-shoes. Yes, they're comfortable but if they're ugly... just don't do it. And since we're all waiting to win the Lotto... in the meantime, I thought of some economically friendly mommy makeovers. Hopefully these will help make over all of our beings by bringing out the best in us (I like to think of myself as a whole. When a part of me is "sick," it affects all of me--physically, spiritually, emotionally. Thus, treating the entire body, mind, and soul makes the most sense to me.)

• I believe inner beauty brought outward is THE best makeover. When you're genuinely happy and elated, your face is more radiant. After much agony of why I have been so miserable lately, it hit me that I was spiritually ailing. I was starved of spiritual sustenance because I had been just filling up on desserts, whip cream, light and fluffy appetizers.. frequently but not enough. The answer? Set aside time to talk with God--literally. Yes, prayer can be done in the car during your commute, while you shower, while your baby is screaming or throwing a tantrum but on top of those moments, you need solid time with God. Jesus started the day in prayer, in an isolated and dark place. Many times, I have a hard time falling (or staying) asleep. Now, I've decided to take that as a cue to pray and read the Word. It takes discipline and practice but almost anything in world does, so why should we not here?
  
• So you're smiling ear to ear because God's given you a sense of peace that transcends all understanding [through prayer and petition, Phil 4:6-7]. If you yellow teeth from all the coffee you've been drinking, you need to use Crest WhiteStrips. Just a few minutes a day will make a huge difference!
• Get a good haircut. This is one of the areas I don't believe in going cheap on. It doesn't mean you have to pay $70+ for a haircut but do keep going to the hair stylist that does a good job, even if you have to shell out 70 buckaroonies.
• Good Suds. There are sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners available on a budget nowadays. The sulfate chemicals (basically detergent) found in most shampoos are harsh on hair and it strips your hair of its natural oils. I covet nice shampoos but I'm not quite convinced they are worth $30 for a month's worth. Loreal has a sulfate-free line that I've been enjoying. And by looking at my hair, I'd say it's doing a good job at protecting it and keeping it glossy.
• Be pimple free; we're too old to look pubescent. I've talked about this before and I just have to reiterate the importance of skincare. More than the actual lotions/creams you use, wash with a gentle but effective cleanser and use moisturizer! Also take care of your skin by resting up and drinking lots of water. Those two things are free: cha ching!
• Be comfortable in your own skin. Another "freebie" but this comes with age and wisdom it seems. For me, it's come post-Isabella. When you look like you're not trying too hard, I believe you're at your sexiest. That even applies to your actual clothing. I still like to wear heels but it just doesn't make sense to wear those on a daily basis when out and about with the stroller. I suggest finding some comfortable flats (the key is finding one with a flexible rubber sole!). And wear clothes you don't have to fuss around with: no tugging, fixing, or pulling. You look more ridiculous wearing that shirt, blouse, dress, pants than you think you do.
• Have a laugh. Seriously. Be able to laugh at yourself and then LAUGH! Those feel good endorphins will be swimming all around and it's contagious so don't be surprised if your babe is giggling too!

And there you have it. My budget friendly makeover, voila! You are the fabulous self you know you are.

Dora!

Isabella doesn't really know Dora through television yet. But Dora enamors us during each mealtime away from home. These disposable placemats are perfect for babies/toddlers whose mothers are germ-a-phobes in hiding.

No more wiping down the table with a baby wipe only to be disgusted at the caked on residue! These placemats stick to the table (and they are recyclable--some are biodegradable!) and you just peel them off when you're done!

Reality Check

Since Isabella is taking more steps (she can fully walk unassisted but she's still very cautious and crawls a lot too), I wanted to buy her some shoes with a firmer sole that was still flexible. [AAP recommends babies stay barefoot or have a thin/flexible sole when they start walking] She's only been in Robeez; they have a thin barely there leather sole. But now she likes to walk outside so she needs something that can withstand a bit more of a beating and get dirty. Plus, I wanted to protect her feet a bit more with a thicker (but still flexible) sole to protect from pebbles, rocks, and God forbid anything sharp.

We walk into a children's shoe store and walk out with 2 pairs: a sandal/shoe hybrid and a water SOCK (like a water shoe but not) and $73 poorer. HUH?!!

Roe and I used to say we wanted 3-4 kids pre-Isabella... now, I think we need to win the Lotto.

[disclaimer: i didn't even know what a water shoe was until i was told her teacher that she needs them for splash days. i went all around town asking for "water shoes" and finally found them... but they're more like SOCKS with a rubber bottom]

Product Rave - Combi Mug

The Combi Mug has been really awesome to us. The handles are ergonomically formed for your little one and the straw is small and flexible. Isabella was nursed for a really long time and for whatever reason, she couldn't get the hang of other sippy or straw cups (especially the ones with valves--and if you try them yourself, they're kind of hard to drink from too!). It's around $13 (but you can buy it at BuyBuyBaby and use their 20% off coupon) and totally worth it. We have 2 and we carry one around everywhere we go!

[Combi, feel free to pay me for free advertising any time]

Virtue Lesson #29

Tell the truth and nothing but the truth.

And just to clarify, telling the truth does not equal being mean or blunt. Telling the truth is loving, in fact. Lying to prevent hurting someone's feelings is just your ego and pride talking. Don't do it. Because once the truth comes out, it'll slap you silly.

I try to talk to Isabella about important "lessons" in life. I know she can't completely understand but I hope that it'll sink in somehow. Today, I told her it's not nice to lie. God doesn't like it either. And since we love God, we try to do nice things to others.

And being a mom, you have to find good ways to channel your hurt and anger (even rage sometimes) and make it productive and a teaching tool for your children. I want Isabella to know that it's okay to feel those things (hurt, anger, frustration, sadness) but I also want her to know that she can't let those feelings take control over her, her life, her attitude, etc.

I'm trying, Isabella... really I am.

untitled

i don't have a title today because i'm just so tired.

when you get those "precious hours" aka, when your little one AND your hubby go to sleep, it's literally the best time of the day. i can do whatever i want and the day's over so you don't have to think about making any meals for anyone -- other than getting the hagen daz out of the freezer and a large spoon. these hours are so "precious" in fact that you almost lose control.. you just can't stop.

last night was one of those nights. though i only stayed up 2:15ish it's like i'm half zombie, half mombie.

Motherhood in the Raw #298742892

Lately, my meals consist of: string cheese, yoBaby yogurt, tofu slices, and bite sized peaches. It just so happens that Isabella's meals look just like mine!! More like, my meals look just like hers.

{I even use her little spoon sometimes.}

Some 'Do Not Try This At Home' Moments

• Do not wear a thong (the underwear, not the sandal) when wearing form fitting sweats in a light color, light cotton blend, high waisted, high water pants. They are just not flattering--especially if I can see cellulite through your pants. Wear real underwear for some support. But if you prefer the thongs, choose different attire.
• Bending down while wear a thong (these things are just disasters waiting to happen!) in low rise pants/jeans so that I can SEE your thong.... not so flattering again too.
• Do not eat Korean seaweed soup + fish then touch your hair. You won't smell so good all day or all week, Isabella.
  
• Do not leave a half eaten strawberry in your bib. It will grow mold and smell funny the next time you use it. I recommend discarding all food items immediately; you can launder later.
• Do not go down scary slides with your baby at places like Kiddie Klub if you are going to scream. You will only scare your baby AND everyone else there.
• Also, not a good idea to scream during children's movies while at a theater filled with other children. No one appreciates it.

There are definitely more.. stay tuned.

Things that make me Happy

there's been a lot on my mind lately: what to make for lunch/dinner, how to make a healthy meal, how to live a healthy lifestyle, what makes me really happy, is this how life is supposed to be, am i happy or unhappy, what should i wear today, what should isabella wear today, what's the weather going to be like, should we go for a walk outside or take the car, do i have friends, where are my friends, where's God, how do i serve Him in a way that glorifies HIM and not me, i love to praise, i love music, why can't i just be a rockstar for God, i should be working right now, i waste too much time, i love to sleep, why do i feel so much pressure, why is success, what is love....

it's like brain vomit, i know.

but for sure, one thing that gives me belly laughs (you know, the kind that makes your belly ache it's so funny, heart-wrenching, heart-warming, hug your soul kind of thing) is my isabella rose.

why you so bootiful, bebe??

something else i really love: it gets me all rev'ed up, head spinning, heart racing, jump up out of your seat and move, shake a little here an' there, singing becomes synonymous with screaming, where you get a jump in your step, and it's like you're on a high for days is worship--in praise (singing) mode. there are so many different ways to worship and i believe that for everyone, a particular way irks us--in the best way possible. this past weekend, i had the PRIVILEGE to see Hillsong United in Toronto. it was just jaw-dropping. if i could do that for the rest of my life, i'd want to live forever. Hillsong, if you're hiring, **call me**

and another thing i just can't live without are good girlfriends. friends you go out of way for, friends that do the same, and both times it never feels like an inconvenience. after you part, you just keep replaying the conversations and you just smile; you thank God for putting them in your life. you travel near and far and as often as you can. you can trade clothes, secrets, and even a bed. i love u for being my friends.. thank u for being my friend.

lastly, REALLY good food makes me happy... can i get an "AMEN"?!!

Let's Clarify

A couple posts ago, I mentioned "more on that later"... but never spoke of them again. So, let me clarify a few points.

I found a pair of jeans that fit me perfectly--down to the length! If you're petite and short like I am, that's hard to find. I was, in fact, shrinking without knowing it. I gorged a bit on cookies and chocolate for a few days and now, my new 7 jeans, Lexie A Pockets (Lexie is their petite line) are the perfect casual, go-to jean. They're short enough to wear with flats and long enough to switch it up with a 2 or 3 in. heel. Best of all, I bought them on ebay with my Mother's Day money for super cheap! SCORE

Next, a few lessons learned about party planning:

• You can save a lot of money on decorations or favors if you time your purchases correctly. I bought a bunch of decorations from the after-Easter sale on clearance at Target and Rite Aide. I also used Easter-y colors for my theme: pink and green. It was hard finding the same pastel pink and green elsewhere but I found other shades just a bit darker that looked good together
• Sign up for coupons on JoAnn's and Michael's websites! Luckily, I had a friend who already had some and I signed up too. They regularly give out coupons for 20% off, 40% off one item, etc.
• Scout before you shop! Be on the lookout, compare prices, and jot down your ideas as you see them. It'll prevent chaos the couple days before; though, I still had some chaos to remedy myself.
• Also, buy items you know you can use later. I bought 2 rolls of colored butcher paper (pink and green of course!) for $25 each but I know we can use them later. They also make handy table covers (you can also buy vinyl ones but I liked the look paper more). I can imagine us using them again for future parties where Isabella and her friends can draw all over it as an activity.
• Probably the most important piece I used for Isabella's party: capitalize on what you're good at, delegate the rest!! My awesome aunt flew in from Seattle and cooked up a storm with my mom, flown in from Oklahoma. We planned the menu prior to (make items--if you plan to cook--that are easy to make in bulk). Next, my very awesome and pregnant friend, Allison, helped me with decorations. She's a little crafty elf! I only had ideas but didn't know how to execute. Allison to the rescue!! Then, ME... I'm good at buying :) I bought all the necessary items and ran around town to pick up this and that; Roe helped me carry the heavy ones. He also made a few items at work (he runs a sheet fabrication company) for us to use at the party.
  
• Find a way to entertain your guests. I wanted to ensure people had a good time--more than just an eat and run. For the kids, I loved our face painter!! She set her table up outside in our backyard = occupying the kids and giving them room to run around away from the lil' babies indoors. For the adults, I had them place "bets" and write Isabella blessings on her "tree". Just something to do while waiting around. As a bonus, we had some cute baby attendees to play with too ;)
• Use decorations people can take home if they want: balloons are always an easy and good choice in my opinion. I rented a helium tank and bought 2 packages of balloons for really cheap. A lot of guests took them home, along with the pinwheels we had outside. Less cleanup for me!
• If items purchased/hired don't go the way you wanted, speak up when you return them. You may be surprised and get a deal in return. Our helium tank was difficult to use so we got to use it for free. Our cotton candy machine ended up being a huge disappointment though the end-product was delicious: only paid half.
  
• Lastly, return what you didn't use! I over-bought on decorations and because balloons were so easy to use as decorations, I needed less of the other stuff. I bought $80 worth of clearance items at Target, returned $65 of it! Keep ALL receipts.
• And have fun. Enjoy yourself.... because if you don't, it's just not worth it. Go to Chuck E Cheese or Pump it Up instead if it's too much work and no play. Yes, it's exhausting to host a huge party like we did but I had fun; totally worth it in my opinion :)
  

My New Friends

Is it bad that I've gone through nearly 2 bottles of Benadryl and finished off a small bottle of Tylenol in one year? And it wasn't mine but Isabella's! I try not to drug her up as much as I can, use the humidifier or saline drops (completely safe to use, from Little Noses when they're really stuffed up and congested; they also have a decongestant drop but only to be used 2-3 days max), and give her plenty o' rest and fluids... but sometimes, you just need some extra help! Of course, only use after you've consulted with your doctor. But these two items have been a God-send! Isabella hasn't really been too sick her first year but teething and just weather changes = runny nose. Sometimes it's more like oozy nose; other times, it's like running water nose.

We've also gone through TUBES and TUBES of hydrocortisone cream (Costco's brand has 4 in a box for super cheap!). Isabella has mild eczema and just sensitive skin in general. We use that cream for everything--seriously. She gets rashy sometimes on her face from eating something: hydrocortisone. Mini hives: hydrocortisone. Eczema: of course, hydrocortizone! Itchy skin, bug bite: hydrocortisone. On top of that, I lather, and really, I mean DOUSE and LUBE her up at night with Aquaphor (again, found at Costco; a huge tub for so cheap). It's like a wrinkle cream for babies!! She wakes up with beautiful, soft skin--like the Gerber or Gap model baby. We go nearly nowhere without those two things in my diaper bag.

Lastly: thin cotton washcloths. Koreans are like geniuses. We just make the best things! It's semi-sheer and thin; good for almost anything. Runny nose? Korean washcloth. Forgot your bib? Korean washcloth. Bath? Korean washcloth. If only it could resolve the North Korea/South Korea conflict.