tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6403411569492201632024-02-06T21:34:36.452-08:00Diary of a First Time MomThe daily reflections of a new mom.christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.comBlogger206125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-26918012078555471542014-03-01T19:40:00.000-08:002014-03-01T19:40:57.670-08:00I'm Loving......Inexpensive Home Design.<br />
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I love that we are living in a major DIY stage. You can get decorating, hair design, home rehab, fill in the blank tutorial on the web.<br />
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I'm especially obsessed with filling in blank spaces around the walls. It's always these extra touches that build a room from okay to spectacular. A collection of artwork on a gallery here, a mirror or two there and you have a space that looks as if a lot of thought was put into it.<br />
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Case in point are empty frames. These are totally doable and cheap. I especially like to intermingle empty vintage frames with mirrors. It adds the architectural design while opening the space.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Krhj9kzr781fMykM48-QHohWDEwCZEkftqSzypE6tN-xEIFEgnO7Oguoq_Bu3gy5ntBBbuQwAvmg6M41_VNvx3SBWnf23VT_jLWm25Bio06DNWhauWbz8vzEnNihAH3q4OeHxHM8CnJh/s1600/GalleryWallIdeas2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Krhj9kzr781fMykM48-QHohWDEwCZEkftqSzypE6tN-xEIFEgnO7Oguoq_Bu3gy5ntBBbuQwAvmg6M41_VNvx3SBWnf23VT_jLWm25Bio06DNWhauWbz8vzEnNihAH3q4OeHxHM8CnJh/s1600/GalleryWallIdeas2.png" height="320" width="319" /></a></div>
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The image above from <a href="http://roost-home.blogspot.com/2013/03/a-gallery-for-sofa-wall.html">Roost Home</a> provides a nice backdrop for any negative space in a home.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdjaPZ7G7P2vvJY5WEhVyjAlq36IEasY5yIyhiE9u4VkY4OtNtdaYMWi5a1Hzlns1-g8iJII3BflvDbzvcLwWvevbVUzdwfBJZM8rZq_MDFf4u_FOMSa8eufA8rWMkyOzNhoi17aFJRy0/s1600/Pinterest+Inspiration.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdjaPZ7G7P2vvJY5WEhVyjAlq36IEasY5yIyhiE9u4VkY4OtNtdaYMWi5a1Hzlns1-g8iJII3BflvDbzvcLwWvevbVUzdwfBJZM8rZq_MDFf4u_FOMSa8eufA8rWMkyOzNhoi17aFJRy0/s1600/Pinterest+Inspiration.jpg" height="320" width="238" /></a></div>
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This is also an inspiration I'm using for my home. Unfortunately the link does not work, so I can't give credit to anyone. However, I love how the gold frames are combined with the white ones which provides another dimension.<br />
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Fortunately or unfortunately, once you start this home design obsession, it grows and then becomes somewhat addictive!<br />
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<i>Christine</i><br />
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<br />christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-91900706858710138642014-02-28T19:04:00.000-08:002014-03-01T19:04:44.122-08:00Hello There!As much as I thought I'll be the last person to be a blogger at this point, I came back to drop my couple of thoughts into this hat of amazing blogs. I realize that there are many aspects of social media that I have not fully embraced but blogs are definitely not one of them. I love blogs. I love the information. I love the relationship building of like minds and having that creative space to share.<br />
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I hope you will stay a while, read from the beginning of the blog and hopefully join me going forward. Take a seat and put your feet up and enjoy your stay!christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-36840780016849251122012-11-26T09:00:00.000-08:002012-11-26T09:00:02.102-08:00I'm Loving....<b>Burlap</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlzTVTOjVrdIVCWfOy9DbdHhT9GSK52nGoHg-cWRKJXctxg7xobtOVokr_u9rvYlsOuD7ueJlv1xb9z4q94tIBihhnZlFa0psXVG7vx6H_amjNHyD-lqU2eBVGIebPU8rHbmzslq7ybXbx/s1600/burlap+stocking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlzTVTOjVrdIVCWfOy9DbdHhT9GSK52nGoHg-cWRKJXctxg7xobtOVokr_u9rvYlsOuD7ueJlv1xb9z4q94tIBihhnZlFa0psXVG7vx6H_amjNHyD-lqU2eBVGIebPU8rHbmzslq7ybXbx/s320/burlap+stocking.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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As seen on <a href="http://www.makeit-loveit.com/2010/12/burlap-christmas-stockings.html">Make it Love it</a>.<br />
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Or this cute monogramed frame from <a href="http://www.loveoffamilyandhome.net/2011/08/diy-weddingframed-monogram-wall-hanging.html">Love of Family and Home</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLcqf_XBi9MCS9TQOQYvYwyqOhLnIfOmL29gVAnku8Nq4ZDQXRzlBWjp4FXnkjM2hnVgNQHL_iFg4LUboW0Q6zm1mMpmssiriaFq8XMKVFR4Cm7FAiNcKznvITQd8vbrS_L34w911uIjw6/s1600/DIY+Monogrammed+Picture+Fall+Wedding+Decor+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLcqf_XBi9MCS9TQOQYvYwyqOhLnIfOmL29gVAnku8Nq4ZDQXRzlBWjp4FXnkjM2hnVgNQHL_iFg4LUboW0Q6zm1mMpmssiriaFq8XMKVFR4Cm7FAiNcKznvITQd8vbrS_L34w911uIjw6/s320/DIY+Monogrammed+Picture+Fall+Wedding+Decor+015.jpg" width="284" /></a></div>
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<b>Books</b><br />
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"The angel smiles, atop the tree, and proves me right. She's happiest there, poised for flight. Halo kissing the ceiling, feeling closer to home." ~ Nikki Grimes, <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Under-Christmas-Tree-Nikki-Grimes/dp/0688159990">Under the Christmas Tree</a></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEnpL0q1ez_ENt7Hko-GYP1gdt78lU2Nlc0Ql4hq-Z2UuXEmQPXFXJFcHTXv3q0Xui_5wmekG_89YKrQiHX_iV6jwrhxuZYttKUNBMAUjanAyUo9kAbRaHuj64z0ulMVe8JK-g3KfsYj_c/s1600/under+the+christmas+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEnpL0q1ez_ENt7Hko-GYP1gdt78lU2Nlc0Ql4hq-Z2UuXEmQPXFXJFcHTXv3q0Xui_5wmekG_89YKrQiHX_iV6jwrhxuZYttKUNBMAUjanAyUo9kAbRaHuj64z0ulMVe8JK-g3KfsYj_c/s1600/under+the+christmas+tree.jpg" /></a></div>
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I picked up Nikki Grimes' Under the Christmas Tree and fell in love with her poetry. It's a definitely a book to keep in our growing library.<br />
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<b>Milk Paint</b><br />
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After discovering <a href="http://missmustardseed.com/">Miss Mustard Seed</a>, I want to paint everything in my house with milk paint. How fun!<br />
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<b>Handmade Ornaments</b><br />
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The older I get, the more I'm shifting away from the commercialized aspect of Christmas. While I do not get excited about shopping I do get excited about spending time with loved ones and enjoying each passing day. In that spirit, I really like the idea of making our ornaments. BHG has some great ideas <a href="http://www.bhg.com/christmas/ornaments/easy-ornaments-kids-can-make/#page=12">here</a>.<br />
<br />christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-82164072824944540492012-01-20T17:10:00.000-08:002012-01-20T17:10:41.099-08:00The Perfect Stroller?As I anticipate our next child, I realized that I had a lot of unnecessary items for my first child. As a "seasoned" mother :)...I realize that I don't need a lot of fluff but rather a good stroller goes a LONG way! The Chico stroller we have is now pretty beaten up and to be honest with you, I found it to be rather bulky and tough to navigate with in the park. So, this time around, I'm a bit specific with what I need for a stroller.<br />
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1. It has to be affordable.<br />
2. It has to be lightweight.<br />
3. It must be easy to navigate<br />
4. It must be easy to fold.<br />
5. Last but not least, I would love for it to be sleek!<br />
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As much as I love the Bugaboo, the price does not love me. After some legwork, virtually, I happened upon a great alternative: <a href="http://us.mamasandpapas.com/en-US/">The Mamas & Papas Stroller</a>!<br />
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Do you like?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtiTNPehpl_cyGxNjHQJZoj-ee2jLNRsnhEmiMD97CVFKs8kHgR68On03zsrSOXuj1CAhcAijP2ILAT4mkSg6IwvpAz9x61EiJ6lgRHCSpxNLY-drqCLZLdcYWgFZRfPzfBAbC8APPyizN/s1600/sola2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtiTNPehpl_cyGxNjHQJZoj-ee2jLNRsnhEmiMD97CVFKs8kHgR68On03zsrSOXuj1CAhcAijP2ILAT4mkSg6IwvpAz9x61EiJ6lgRHCSpxNLY-drqCLZLdcYWgFZRfPzfBAbC8APPyizN/s1600/sola2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Christine</span></i></b></div>
<br />christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-61291221918861554932012-01-04T21:34:00.000-08:002012-01-04T21:34:25.551-08:00Who Is The Black Girl on The Cover of Town & Country?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJs__BIsxYDLc2GihyxTk4GFPrqWhB3C9AK_z3aqOCxESIxKj22wRs-ibRvxw79p26_Fy2LnR6E5qHXcigxxl35Z8MVu7nBl2v7Q5n9mJon_eiq3crLQz8g4CX_pF7pRP7tS_YB2-9aj_R/s1600/town-country-jan-2012-shala-monroque.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJs__BIsxYDLc2GihyxTk4GFPrqWhB3C9AK_z3aqOCxESIxKj22wRs-ibRvxw79p26_Fy2LnR6E5qHXcigxxl35Z8MVu7nBl2v7Q5n9mJon_eiq3crLQz8g4CX_pF7pRP7tS_YB2-9aj_R/s320/town-country-jan-2012-shala-monroque.jpg" width="264" /></a></div>
That was my question when I was at my local Whole Foods and I saw Shala Monroque on the cover of Town and Country magazine. I felt a level of pride as her bright face smile beamed with confidence as she effortlessly showcased her pink and black outfit. The new "It Girl" brought back memories of one of my favorite novellas and movies, Breakfast At Tiffany's by Truman Capote. Like the fictional character Holly Golightly, Monroque seems to be the girl about town or what Truman Capote considered as a swan. She has a mysterious past and just seemingly appears in the glittering social world scene. As glamorous as traveling to various locales and serving as a muse for fashion designers, Monroque knows that her time in the spotlight is fleeting. It will be interesting to see what her next chapter will be.christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-7965969371565360122011-11-11T12:35:00.000-08:002011-11-11T12:45:21.255-08:00Lovely Book<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUQI71oIly5fkk-uSvzRG0CMiKBEkhaTUezxpaLTnuP5n70SgACnFt3ML7DEl-Y-ZwkepqR8Fh6ZCnAl0ynanSi-igYP8jSww_rsu-GZejfYkSxgyHhRw6xGJpbX2UWAsmN7o22C8GXSQH/s1600/i+had+a+favorite+dress.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 258px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUQI71oIly5fkk-uSvzRG0CMiKBEkhaTUezxpaLTnuP5n70SgACnFt3ML7DEl-Y-ZwkepqR8Fh6ZCnAl0ynanSi-igYP8jSww_rsu-GZejfYkSxgyHhRw6xGJpbX2UWAsmN7o22C8GXSQH/s320/i+had+a+favorite+dress.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673839974318270498" /></a>I went to <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/index.jsp">Anthropologie</a> and came across the cutest book and just couldn't help myself to read it to my daughter. I love the illustrations and the story line of repurposing clothing kind of resonated well with me. The illustrations by <a href="http://www.juliadenos.com/">Julia Denos</a> was far from shabby. Okay, okay I have a weakness for whimsy! I will definitely have to add <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Had-Favorite-Dress-Boni-Ashburn/dp/1419700162">I Had A Favorite Dress</a> to our family library.christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-29129995496103772262011-09-11T18:02:00.000-07:002011-09-11T18:11:38.076-07:00Celebrating the Differences in Each Other<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4s_jfxpr0Cs1GynsdXGn_xK9aUb-fqAdZzpW2mMU-H11X5dITjhUcAgFHIw0ATWNPm8QcPGSKQb_6EyFXSRfP3s4xMZ2rGsyq2CPzp8OMERSfJCGMulBNZSXZ_mVHMP2MYgjTsg8OHDF/s1600/freckleface+strawberry.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 125px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4s_jfxpr0Cs1GynsdXGn_xK9aUb-fqAdZzpW2mMU-H11X5dITjhUcAgFHIw0ATWNPm8QcPGSKQb_6EyFXSRfP3s4xMZ2rGsyq2CPzp8OMERSfJCGMulBNZSXZ_mVHMP2MYgjTsg8OHDF/s320/freckleface+strawberry.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651274063740209538" /></a><br />We've been reading Freckleface Strawberry by Julianne Moore and illustrated by LeUyen Pham a lot over here. The writing is humorous and the illustrations are fun and lively. My favorite line of the book is "Who cared about having a million freckles when she had a million friends?" <div><br /></div><div>I'm sorry I didn't know about the <a href="http://www.frecklefacethemusical.com/">musical</a> until recently. Hopefully, it will return this fall.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Christine</i></span></b></div>christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-27085606661801443722011-08-28T17:23:00.001-07:002011-08-28T17:46:23.634-07:00A Couple of Recent Finds at the Library<div style="text-align: center;"><i>A book for me and a book for you.</i></div><div><i>
<br /></i></div><div>This is what goes through my mind when I'm at the library. I gush over all of the recent titles for me to read and gather as many as I can. Then, I make my way over to the children's section and select another ten books for my daughter.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>This is one that she absolutely loves, <a href="http://www.jacquelinewoodson.com/pb.shtml">Pecan Pie Baby</a> by Jacqueline Woodson and Illustrated by Sophie Blackall</div><div>
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<br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdU7L8wutykGSmHY8DHtpWSNxNC-Wh-FPj78JOBFlFfs6-S6nMibE-1pXz6JlCJGaVQy8zys9NTGQbioEDxNTGmdBQW8F4aO9YjK58mx3TGRsHKXpfWYiP_J_uccHVceLShtKKzKKdCiEf/s320/pecen+pie.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646068507372256690" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;">
<br /></span></div><div>It's about a little girl having mixed feelings concerning the baby that will soon arrive.`My favorite part of the book was, "Some days I sat on my stoop thinking about all the years it had been just me and Mama." The wardrobe of the children were so stylish, I wish I had it when I was a kid!</div><div>
<br /></div><div>The book for me, that I couldn't put down was <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Everyday-Icon-Michelle-Obama-Power/dp/0307591433">Everyday Icon: Michelle Obama and the Power of Style</a></i> by Kate Betts. It was the perfect book to read while the rain poured outside and you just wanted to lay around the house. Betts writing style is very flowery and descriptive. A quick read and fashion eye candy that contained pictures and sketches of Michelle Obama's wardrobe.</div><div>
<br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNHmLaP00sSolbJAeQRCWOqTpuzHEDFbQ-zJIq3b8l-vX2CPqd-Xr7rC_HDmHi9glXqnF9VfzF92f5TeV7bLsbIgN-wgdpiFysdfZmgjLvAumAaMpaD1aWFOba8raf2-7l4KapbWlEkAKU/s320/michelle+obama+book.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646069941083106738" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 156px; height: 220px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">
<br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><b><i>Christine</i></b></span></div>christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-89688036174911279372011-08-19T19:50:00.000-07:002011-08-19T20:03:53.921-07:00Two Indie Publishing Children's Books I Want To Include In My Library<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWaU9kX4KmH_-Lz0ce8Cmb0rGSbo_mK0G0ulCTsWL9cUARCg-w4LDtvzA90T9adFdoAemrWqdY94jarvT7gsJlmd1gQ7x2rm1iEGy-BtQKkr6dtn3SIle8GfKHPPZmuPma2kkjWDAB3SBp/s1600/same+difference"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 217px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWaU9kX4KmH_-Lz0ce8Cmb0rGSbo_mK0G0ulCTsWL9cUARCg-w4LDtvzA90T9adFdoAemrWqdY94jarvT7gsJlmd1gQ7x2rm1iEGy-BtQKkr6dtn3SIle8GfKHPPZmuPma2kkjWDAB3SBp/s320/same+difference" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642767870789746626" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.samedifferencebook.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Same Difference</span> by C.G Rawles</a>
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBr7DhmFy10dAk_ml7VPSMIB896rWGuSfE-VyfkCQ-JH19YBOTYFPpkNkm_AonW6XVIajdWGgf6x5itpPN1FfEzt2V4RSCRN-KS4jigI-bQDKGXOrjEiXr1FMfp3WInGKnyjGs56YZU53T/s1600/i+love+my+cotton+candy+hair"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBr7DhmFy10dAk_ml7VPSMIB896rWGuSfE-VyfkCQ-JH19YBOTYFPpkNkm_AonW6XVIajdWGgf6x5itpPN1FfEzt2V4RSCRN-KS4jigI-bQDKGXOrjEiXr1FMfp3WInGKnyjGs56YZU53T/s320/i+love+my+cotton+candy+hair" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642767763250589202" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.cottoncandyhair.com/">I Love My Cotton Candy Hair by Nicole Updegraff</a>
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<br />christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-28031863329523474322011-08-11T20:02:00.000-07:002011-08-11T20:16:11.389-07:00The Idealistic Look At The PastHave you ever seen your life flash before your eyes? I know sometimes when you hear of one's life flashing before their eyes, we think of a pending death. But lately I have been having flashes of different segments of my life. Getting ready for my first day of tenth grade, coming home from college, leaving to New York after college, meeting my husband, meeting my daughter. It's strange because it leaves you in a state of reflection. You think of what may have gone right or wrong. I also see a lot of faces that were once major parts of my life, fade into the background. I stop and wonder about their whereabouts and also wonder what made us lose touch with each other. I think, "Man, she was a good friend. I need to give her a call." <div>
<br /></div><div>Life has a way of going lightening fast. One day you're a gawky thirteen year old battling pimples and the next day you're managing a household. Somehow I do feel like that thirteen year old, except the pimples aren't there but managing a household does feel like pimples. The problems stare at your face and you're looking for a solution to make you're world that more peaceful.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>The past is also good to remind you why you changed your careers. Like myself. On my sometimes worst day as an entrepreneur I find myself looking longingly at my corporate job and thinking to myself, 'Well, at least I got a guaranteed paycheck every two weeks.' Somehow in those moments, I also conveniently forget how miserable I was and that my spirit was slowly dying. It reminds me of the children of Israel when they were in the wilderness and started to fantasize about their Egyptian lives as slaves. "Well, at least we ate well!"</div><div>
<br /></div><div>Do you find yourself reflecting of the past? </div><div>
<br /></div><div><b><i>Christine</i></b></div>christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-22123988331492574232011-08-09T19:19:00.000-07:002011-08-09T19:30:50.706-07:00We've Become Quite CulturalI'm pretty excited to share with you a new project my friend Aisha and I have been working on over the past months. We created a children's book publishing company, <a href="http://www.hartlynkids.com/">Hartlyn Kids</a> that helps children learn about the world around them through reading books. <div>
<br /></div><div>Each of our books are written by a local author and illustrated by a top-notch artist that makes me want to frame the pictures and hang them up in my home. It's been a lot of fun to publish our first two books and to work with various writers and the illustrator, Lisa Butler. I think I found the perfect job.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>Just thought, I'll show you our book trailer. After all, I think the trailer provides you with a better description than I can render!</div><div>
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<br /><iframe width="560" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/BOWUAznZ5Xc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-72599764234693896812011-07-20T13:24:00.000-07:002011-07-20T13:29:12.254-07:00African-American VegansI always admire individuals who can take a stand against the mainstream. In today's society of more and more meat, sometimes its a bit refreshing to try an alternative avenue. Its' with this goal that I found myself in the vegan cookbook section of my local library.<br /><br />I came across <a href="http://www.bryant-terry.com/">Vegan Soul Kitchen</a> by Bryant Terry and realized it hit a nerve. You mean, I could eat vegan and not give up tastes that I was so used to eating? I felt hungry when I read about the Black Eyed Peas Fritters and the Open Faced BBQ Temph Sandwich.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfqlTvSxxSkPPD-KbPz6u2lYmt1qvhKKshxGVO8G79T2m7wgFR4ke5QCTDtJRQOa8D5eG-qL_A2nIbIWaP3l1Gjw3sCCxCdiIwjYex2LBkVVFs5n0nsBDv90SmfrWc7PIw73a8vxG-Wm6/s1600/vegan+soul+food.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 178px; height: 220px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfqlTvSxxSkPPD-KbPz6u2lYmt1qvhKKshxGVO8G79T2m7wgFR4ke5QCTDtJRQOa8D5eG-qL_A2nIbIWaP3l1Gjw3sCCxCdiIwjYex2LBkVVFs5n0nsBDv90SmfrWc7PIw73a8vxG-Wm6/s320/vegan+soul+food.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631533419958410946" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Then, I did some research of possible other individuals who knew how to season their vegan food well and not make it taste "healthy".<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifs9u6Jxe3ptfgtnVPbTkRnVVVtzYYJYndrF-vdFQK9C01TSyI_vMGSozIoGX2igk5YPzckQ40h5Cza5duTaLureiIJbSqZAhm0eSfDwA57atnQgq63mA-6MGLi1DOZ4qmfz_2BIi3XZ4O/s1600/517I%252BkGME1L._SL500_AA300_.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifs9u6Jxe3ptfgtnVPbTkRnVVVtzYYJYndrF-vdFQK9C01TSyI_vMGSozIoGX2igk5YPzckQ40h5Cza5duTaLureiIJbSqZAhm0eSfDwA57atnQgq63mA-6MGLi1DOZ4qmfz_2BIi3XZ4O/s320/517I%252BkGME1L._SL500_AA300_.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631533246742954722" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />I came across another book, <a href="http://byanygreensnecessary.com/">By Any Greens Necessary: A Revolutionary Guide for Black Woman Who Want to Eat Great, Get Healthy, Lose Weight, and Look Phat</a> by Tracy Lynne McQuirter and quietly added it on my need to read list.christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-84344212828198991802011-07-16T17:32:00.000-07:002011-07-16T17:50:36.542-07:00One of the Most Beautiful Books in the Library<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7171Gb0kR3NqLt6NXAox7qf7xLfwZ0R-46wTGmou-_UKkRQiH6x-_Mztfz2h1rO-hYB4vqW5fa-dEfbXvSTUoNtTuvbAOD_prZ4bwW7ptW_AXZxdjjiRUixaO3IpVQKwlN6rUZ91B9a9_/s1600/brown+rabbit.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>The library has been one of my favorite places for quite a while now. As a child, I would drift off in another world within its confines, while my peers would rather be outside playing. Whenever life gets stressful, I go to the library and it is as if time stands still. The smell of the used books and reading spines upon spines of books, never bores me. The biggest problem in a library of sticking to one stack of books rather than several, is much more welcomed than other challenges I face. I even sewed a special library bag just for these homages to be used to fill all of my treasures.<div><br /></div><div>Going to the library also helps me build my personal library. It's like test driving a car. After two weeks I know which books I want to see in my collection and which books I rather pass on for another time. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7171Gb0kR3NqLt6NXAox7qf7xLfwZ0R-46wTGmou-_UKkRQiH6x-_Mztfz2h1rO-hYB4vqW5fa-dEfbXvSTUoNtTuvbAOD_prZ4bwW7ptW_AXZxdjjiRUixaO3IpVQKwlN6rUZ91B9a9_/s320/brown+rabbit.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5630114316227584242" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div><div><a href="http://http://www.amazon.com/Brown-Rabbit-City-Natalie-Russell/dp/0670012343">Brown Rabbit in the City</a> by Natalie Russell is just that kind of book. I love the classic artwork with my favorite color palette and the story of friendship. Russell's skill for screen printing undoubtedly will make it an adult's favorite as well as a child's. The prequel to this book is <a href="http://http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0670011703/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=yourhome05e-20&link_code=as3&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=0670011703">Moon Rabbit</a>.</div><div><br /></div>christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-87153738598471684282011-07-11T19:26:00.000-07:002011-07-16T19:35:52.528-07:00A Children's Book, That May Not Be One<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTF23rMAcsp7yIUCJsLii8bz7hAAfERvZxI9t3FyjhTBMcxgiLkbgM7BOTxnWrCmAaRFYSaNEEYvG5HsBijJtVpGoQ2R1lYVeYmq9Ftpiuot92LYwQYMmbmj-cFMuo1HVkynA3C-2i04_m/s1600/busing+brewster.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 263px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTF23rMAcsp7yIUCJsLii8bz7hAAfERvZxI9t3FyjhTBMcxgiLkbgM7BOTxnWrCmAaRFYSaNEEYvG5HsBijJtVpGoQ2R1lYVeYmq9Ftpiuot92LYwQYMmbmj-cFMuo1HVkynA3C-2i04_m/s320/busing+brewster.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5630144309179859634" /></a><br />Another great book from the library, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Busing-Brewster-Richard-Michelson/dp/037583334X">Busing Brewster</a> by Richard Michelson is worth the awards it has received. Noteworthy illustrations and a topic that can be used to teach anyone from 5 to 100 years old. I skipped over some language that is used in the book, because I didn't want toddlers repeating a word like "colored". <div><br /></div><div>Other than that, I highly recommend including it in your home library.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-71228737441606732572011-06-28T12:11:00.000-07:002011-07-16T17:52:59.840-07:00The Weight That BindsOprah struggled with it. So did Jennifer Hudson, Jessica Simpson and Star Jones. Of course you can't forget countless aunts, uncles, and cousin whom seemingly grow heavier and heavier as years go by. I used to pride myself as having my weight under control. One of the proudest moments of my life came when I loss thirty-five pounds and for once in my life I possessed a freedom of going into a store and fitting into anything without worrying if I looked fat. I worked out just about everyday and my meals revolved around fruits and vegetables and water. Treats such as ice-cream and cake were just that treats, nothing else.<div><br /></div><div>But slowly the weight crept on after I got married. Late night conversations over heartily prepared meals and of course desert, my lifelong weakness. I reintroduced myself to foods that were at one time on my forbidden list. Workouts were not as regimented and slowly the weight piled on. I started to get comments such as, "Boy, you have gained a lot of weight!" </div><div><br /></div><div>I am now where I never thought I would be, but the good aspect is that I'm extremely uncomfortable with this burden of weight, that tends to sap all of your energy. I'm training myself to cut my appetite and to remind myself (constantly) that I am not hungry, despite tempting advertisements and the pizza that the family just ordered. Of course, it smells good, but again I'm really not hungry. Really.</div><div><br /></div><div>But I'm realizing, healthy living is a mindset. I'll keep you posted about my journey to lose.</div>christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-43047001817333704472011-06-21T10:03:00.000-07:002011-06-21T10:11:47.351-07:00The Sacrifice of Healthy EatingI'm really trying to make sure my daughter has a well-balanced diet, even on days that it is busy. I sometimes cringe to think when I realized she didn't have her quinoa porridge in the morning or at times she may have to eat at her school, in which I have no control over what she eats. I wonder how much processed food she may eat when she's not around me and then ask myself if I'm neurotic or extreme. "So what if she had a goldfish for snack instead of a juicy peach, look at the mystery meat I used to consume in my public school cafeteria." I would say to myself. Then, I look at my constant struggle with weight and hope that if I make wise choices for her today, hopefully she will make wise choices as she grows up and won't associate happy childhood memories with sweets but rather immune boosting smoothies or grilled veggie burgers.<div><br /></div><div>Fighting childhood obesity is like war on drugs in the eighties. Hopefully we'll win it by making a small sacrifice a day in the kitchen.</div>christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-43734218961716571522011-06-17T17:28:00.000-07:002011-06-17T17:41:26.412-07:00And Then There Was Silver Sparrow<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiu8VCg8Np9D7At2JXersJF68b2yCVc2pstmflicf1KLFl85_czqupV6QBFMGFl6KZUBuaMa9ZQpGBszBqxEQ6YGwKPyYdBISkOvzanw_7di5Hju9ZO_9HnEywv2YL4KmNvrS22Ghfu48o/s1600/book_sparrow.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 159px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiu8VCg8Np9D7At2JXersJF68b2yCVc2pstmflicf1KLFl85_czqupV6QBFMGFl6KZUBuaMa9ZQpGBszBqxEQ6YGwKPyYdBISkOvzanw_7di5Hju9ZO_9HnEywv2YL4KmNvrS22Ghfu48o/s320/book_sparrow.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619353026786527970" border="0" /></a><br />There comes a time in every person's life when you happen upon a book that you can't seem to put down. That used to happen to me throughout childhood, probably with every book that I picked up. But as you get older and at times have to read for that Public Policy class or loan documents, reading may not be as enthralling as it was before. But somewhere along the sea of books there comes one that brings you right back to your old eleven year old self, when you used to sneak away to the school library to finish just one more page of tale about a young lady in the 1800's who wore muffs as she walked down cobblestone streets.<br /><br />I recently have a new favorite author, none other than <a href="http://www.tayarijones.com/">Tayari Jones</a>. I first heard of her through a friend in New York, she kept raving about her first book, Leaving Atlanta. The storyline didn't hold me, but here I am ten years later wishing, oh why did it take me so long to read her work. Very well written with developed rounded characters. She masterfully showed different sides of a character's situation and you walked away from the book understanding the reasons why the characters made the choices they did. Plus, she based her storyline on angle that's not usually represented in literature. It's definitely worth the purchase and a great addition to any home library. Kuddos to my new favorite author!christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-48376865284858047092011-06-17T17:11:00.000-07:002011-06-17T17:23:21.535-07:00Summer SewingI love shopping for the summer season and recently enjoy sewing for my daughter. I find summer clothes to be so much easier to sew. Don't you? The <a href="http://www.oliverands.com/blog/2008/08/lazy-days-skirt-free-pattern.html">lazy day skirt</a> has been my go to skirt that I am happy to say I can whip up in less than an hour! I say this as a pat myself on the back, considering just two summers ago I didn't even know how to use a sewing machine. For me, I am obsessed with sewing pencil skirts. I can go out to town with pencil skirts in West African fabric, denim, eyelet, you name it. I can't believe how quickly I can whip these up either and there's a certain level of satisfaction I feel as I wear them. I observe the hem and know that it was thoughtfully stitched. Now I understand why sewing has now become a growing obsession. What started out as a skill I wanted to master, has now become a hobby I carefully carve out time for each week. What shall I make this week? I always think. But with warm summer weather, I feel no inclination to stay glued to a chair for hours on end sewing, rather I desire a quick satisfaction that only comes with a skirt here, or a toy there.<br /><br />What about you, what's your go-to summer sewing pattern?christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-82998490181159560202011-04-27T12:18:00.001-07:002011-04-27T12:19:56.206-07:00I Miss Writing HereAfter a very long hiatus, I'm back. I've decided to continue this blog and still focus on raising a grounded family. Stay tuned for more blog postings!christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-53936004591495991992010-11-10T13:17:00.000-08:002010-11-10T13:22:47.908-08:00Cosmopolitan KidsI know, it has been a while since I have posted. I have been quite busy and have focused lots of my time and energy at my new blog <a href="www.cosmopolitankid.blogspot.com">www.cosmopolitankid.blogspot.com</a>. It has been a blast for my friend Aisha and I as we try to raise our children to be global minded citizens of the world. I will be updating my personal blog more frequently now that I have gotten a handle of things, but please be sure to check out<a href="www.cosmopolitankid.blogspot.com"> www.cosmopolitankid.blogspot.com</a> for giveaways and fun activities to do with your kids.<br /><br />xoxo Christinechristine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-11374209610033893902010-07-20T19:52:00.000-07:002010-07-20T20:25:46.749-07:00Collage CollageI have a confession to make. I dislike the Chucky Cheeses of the world or any generic, contrived centers which lure parents to have their child's birthday parties there for convenince. The parents always seem so tired and the children are always overly hyper from too much stimulation and sugar that's usually served in a liberal manner all day long, or for as long as you have the space.<br /><br />Call me old-fashioned, but I think there's something to be said about having a birthday party for your child at home with a homemade cake and activities loved ones carefully planned. I know, in a day when we think a giant mouse can ensure a great time, my perspective may seem out of touch. Well, on the flip side, there are a couple of parents who look for alternatives to the Chuckie Cheeses and Gymborees of the birthday world and may have the birthday party at a park, a children's museum, or a studio. The last of which, I completely love. In fact, I recently came across the company Collage Collage (http://collagecollage.ca/) and it kind of makes me want to move to Canada. It's part studio for children and part bookstore. Collage Collage has a gigantic table in the middle of the room for creating and guess what? You can rent it for parties. I know, I know, some of you are saying, "But where's the laser tag/jungling monkey/tramboline?" It's no where in site, but guess what...I doubt your kids would miss any of that.christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-20806877804103582822010-07-01T19:22:00.000-07:002010-07-01T19:39:25.329-07:00The Skinny on the Holly<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX6hn3w4m6gJHEC8YXFMZ4e4P039YgZi6r3hQ0DL8arzwchTxdBLPuMAzCILGoMf6xufsuz0lai_CdtqbFAL9Is3JkdL-VPJvVxiQQr5lNS5TScTzsnD5fWtBkbZpP5ai-8ZBFhDIrfTfN/s1600/sky1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 230px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX6hn3w4m6gJHEC8YXFMZ4e4P039YgZi6r3hQ0DL8arzwchTxdBLPuMAzCILGoMf6xufsuz0lai_CdtqbFAL9Is3JkdL-VPJvVxiQQr5lNS5TScTzsnD5fWtBkbZpP5ai-8ZBFhDIrfTfN/s320/sky1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489132547834823474" /></a><br />Pardon me for my lack of postings, but sometimes life has a way of taking every bit of free time. Over the past couple of months, I realized two things. One of which involves my love of gardening and the other is a slight obsession of having the flyest house on the street. I've dedicated hours of locating the just right plant to carry home with me and now I can finally step back and relax. Being that most of the plants we planted are perennials, in another three years I will have one of those bountiful cottage gardens one sees in the English countryside.<br /><br />However, I still have a some plants I'm spying for acquisition, which includes black eyed susans, cosmos, daisies, and two sky pencil holly shrubs. Now if you've never seen the sky pencil holly shrub, I'll try my best to describe it for you. It's like Diana Ross's wig for the garden. It has all of the drama. It also has a way of anchoring the landscape without being too obtrusive. It's perfect for both ends of a garden or on either side of a door. Even better, it has white blossoms during the spring and festive red berries during the winter months. A great addition for structure and interest all year round. If you already have one in your garden, drop me a line and let me know how its faring.christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-22433136683705093312010-04-21T11:24:00.000-07:002010-04-21T11:41:58.843-07:00A Throwback<object width="500" height="405"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/nFY0HBkUm8o&hl=en_US&fs=1&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/nFY0HBkUm8o&hl=en_US&fs=1&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="500" height="405"></embed></object><br />I'm sharing a moment with my niece today. While spending the day with me, we started rummaging through our DVDs and came across the Cosby Show collection. She told me she watched it a couple of times, but she didn't sound excited enough. Then I went on a whole spill of how popular the show was when I was her age of 10 years old. "As popular as Everyone Hates Chris?" She asked. "Bigger than that. It was like American Idol." I replied. Okay, I lied a bit but it definitely received some credibility. Five minutes later we were both laughing at the jokes my family and I laughed at years ago. It's funny how timeless comedy can be. I used to wonder what my father saw in Sanford and Son and one night a couple of months ago I was in stitches with the clever dialogue. If you have some free time, let the younger generation know about what used to make you smile, you might be suprised at their response.christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-3623972808560621932010-04-20T19:59:00.001-07:002010-04-20T20:09:34.561-07:00This blog has moved<br /> This blog is now located at http://christinemills.blogspot.com/.<br /> You will be automatically redirected in 30 seconds, or you may click <a href='http://christinemills.blogspot.com/'>here</a>.<br /><br /> For feed subscribers, please update your feed subscriptions to<br /> http://christinemills.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default.<br /> christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640341156949220163.post-74628291364267792352010-04-20T19:24:00.000-07:002011-04-27T12:09:23.757-07:00The Ongoing Battle Between Moms<a href="http://www.christinemills.net/blog/uploaded_images/mommy-wars-792299.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 121px; height: 187px;" src="http://www.christinemills.net/blog/uploaded_images/mommy-wars-792298.gif" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />The other day when I went to the library I picked up <i>Mommy Wars: Stay-at-Home and Career Moms Face Off on Their Choices, Their Lives, Their Families</i> by Leslie Morgan Steiner. It's a pretty quick read because it has essays from numerous women regarding their choice to stay home or work part-time/full-time with their kids. The title of the book is pretty appropriate because there can sometimes be a level of tension (albeit a small one) between working and non-working moms. The conversations usually between the two typically includes the stay at home mom asking the working mom if she feels guilty and the working mom asking asking the stay at home mom if she feels bored. But as I continued reading the book I realized that these questions are really meant for the middle class and above social circles. Honestly, if you have to work those questions simply do not exist.<br /><br />Another point of the book which I found particularly interesting was this notion if you are a stay-at-home mom you are the only care giver with no outside help needed, which can be further from the truth. We all need that grandma, sister, brother, or day care worker who can lend a helping hand from time to time. After all, support for raising children is a pretty ancient tradition, hence family compounds and the need to live close to relatives.<br /><br />One common thread throughout the book, regardless of the mother's choice they all unanimously agreed that motherhood changes your life. You have to be selective of what you put on your plate. From the stay-at-home mother who spends more time volunteering than spending time with her bambinoes to the corporate working mom who is too driven to have dinner with her kids, we all need to strike a balance.<br /><br />What's your take? Could you be a stay-at-home or are you happy with a 9 to 5?<br /><br />I must admit, staying at home seems more and more appealing and I found myself daydreaming of museum trips throughout the day, walks in the park and just a quieter life. That's probably why my favorite blogs of the moment are from stay-at-home crafty moms. I guess I'm sneaking a peak of what that world is. Could I be slowly drifting over from the pencil skirt and stilletto crew to the snazzy strollers and crocs crew?christine millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01018060429759645565noreply@blogger.com0