tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43578047966120793022024-02-20T02:58:09.713+10:30Me and My MunchkinChrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.comBlogger94125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-65943369663450466552012-10-30T07:00:00.000+10:302012-11-02T08:21:27.669+10:30Navigating Girl World<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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How many friends do you have? And how long have you known them? Friends are great. They can egg you on to do that thing you have wanted to do all your life but have been too afraid to do, like travel the world, and they can stop you from making the biggest mistake of your life, like buying that snot-green top that you just walked out of the dressing room wearing.</div>
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I love my friends. I've said that before. I have many friends, all in different social circles. I have met them all at different times in my life, in different ways. My best friend in the whole world, for example, I met in primary school. I have another close friend who is my ex boyfriend's sister. Other friends I met online in parenting forums and online mum's groups. </div>
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All of my friends, with the exception of my bestie, have children. You would think that this would mean they would understand when things got a little hectic right?</div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><i><b>Wrong.</b></i></span></div>
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The last couple of months have been a little... we'll just say chaotic. You have seen a lot of the aftermath on the blog, but just in case you aren't one of my regular readers yet, I'll give you a little summary. I have recently taken on tafe, a casual job, a (relatively new) relationship and have been going through mediation to keep custody of my son. Needless to say, my time (and funds) have been fairly limited. As much as I love my friends, I just can't see everyone at once, and I don't have as much time for everyone as I used to. Unfortunately that has resulted in a bit of bitchiness and de-friending on Facebook.</div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><i>Like, seriously? De-friending?</i></span></div>
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When did things get that bad? A forgotten message here and there and a cancelled play date so I can get some study done and I have lost friends? There must be some kind of mistake, right? Well, I don't know. I have seen this all happen before. Granted, I was in high school when this kind of behavior last reared it's ugly head, but sure enough here I am, in my twenties being (ever so slightly) told that "if you don't give up everything for me, then I'm not your best friend anymore". I have never felt so ridiculous in my entire life.</div>
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I love watching TV shows of kids in high school. I watched <i>The OC</i> and <i>Laguna Beach</i> through my teen years, and loved the drama and bitchiness that went on between the girls. It meant that what I went through in school was pretty much the norm. Well, it must of been, if it was happening on TV, <i style="color: orange; font-size: x-large;">Yes??? </i>But life went on. I grew up, and although I still love watching both of those shows (my guilty pleasure), I assumed that the bitchiness would stop now that we are older, and <i>mothers.</i></div>
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Boy was I naive.</div>
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So I am just going to go about my business I suppose, hoping that I don't lose any more friends along the way. With regards to my other friends, if they bail just because I get a little (OK, a lot!) busy, then they don't deserve to be in the presence of my awesomeness when things start to settle down again!</div>
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<b>How often do you see your friends?</b></div>
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<b>Do you still see lots of bitchiness in "girl world"?</b><br />
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Linking up with <a href="http://www.twinkleintheeyeblog.com/" target="_blank">Twinkle in the Eye</a> and <a href="http://www.withsomegrace.com/" target="_blank">With Some Grace</a>!</div>
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Linking up with Jess for IBOT!</div>
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Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-8206759125154476132012-10-24T13:57:00.003+10:302012-10-26T06:55:59.186+10:30A Few Changes... and What Do You Want?OK, so I am experiencing what they call writers block. It is unusual that I would not have anything to say, but I really don't. Over the next couple of months I will be taking the blog in a bit of a different direction. My life is changing, evolving, if you prefer to use fancy terminology. I am no longer a "single mum". In a few months time I will no longer be living at home with my parents. I will be a part of a family again. I will also be able to start getting my organising groove on, as I will have my own space to organise again.<br />
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Of course, Me and My Munchkin will remain a blog about parenting, family life, and chaos. Why would I change the things my loyal readers have been coming here for? I will just be adding in some new "features".<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://taniaboutin.com/coping-with-change/" target="_blank">{image source}</a></td></tr>
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So I guess what I am hoping from you today, is a few suggestions about what you would love to see at Me and My Munchkin? I want this to be a space where you like to come, where you can laugh at my insanities, but yet perhaps still learn a thing or 2.<br />
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So please, do tell. What do you want to see? Organising posts, recipes, menu planning, parenting tips, reviews and giveaways? You tell me, and over the next couple of months, watch Me and My Munchkin transform. I'm so excited to share it all with you!<br />
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Linking up this Friday with <a href="http://www.withsomegrace.com/" target="_blank">With Some Grace</a> and <a href="http://www.twinkleintheeyeblog.com/" target="_blank">Twinkle in the Eye</a>!</div>
Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-73794271410802879082012-10-19T07:17:00.000+10:302012-10-19T15:27:59.215+10:30Feeling the Pinch<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><i>Note: I am a huge believer in things happening for a reason. Within a couple of hours of publishing this post, I had a call from the manager of one of the other stores in the company I worked for previously. They had me in the store late this morning signing paperwork so that I can start work next week as a night filler. Casual hours and close to home. Good to see my little whinge had some effect!</i></span><br />
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I don't really know how to find the words for this post. I don't even really know what it's about. I have just completed mediation with regards to custody of Master A and I'm feeling a little overwhelmed by everything.<br />
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I have been a wreck for the last week leading up to this day. Cranky, snappy and tense (a big thanks to Mr M for putting up with me!) I was not really sure what to expect and nervous that things wouldn't go to plan.<br />
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<i>Things didn't really go to plan. </i><br />
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But that's OK. I'm OK. It means that things are set now, and we have a plan of action. But then everything else slots in around it to make me tense. I have been searching for a job for around a month now. After countless job applications and emails stating "The quality of applicants were very high and unfortunately, you did not make the shortlist..." I am starting to feel the pinch, both emotionally and financially. My self esteem is being shot to pieces and my purse is feeling ever so light these days.<br />
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Mr M and I have decided to move in together in the new year. This will mean lots of posts on moving, organising and decorating (can you say excited?) of course though it also means that I will need to speed up my process of looking for work. My experience is limited, though not non-existent, however my availability is extremely limited, and making things so much harder.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://office.microsoft.com/en-au/images/results.aspx?qu=calendar&ex=1#ai:MP900309636|" target="_blank">{image source}</a></td></tr>
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So, my mind is feeling a little mushy right now, all of these new dates and figures and responsibilities floating around in my head.<br />
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I have seven weeks left of Tafe on a Tuesday night. I have Master A staying overnight at his dad's once a month until January, then it becomes every second weekend. There is less than ten weeks to Christmas, and we start looking for a house to live in. I have to this time to try and find a job, and get back at an even point in my finances (and complete my Christmas shopping) and attempt to have some savings behind me for my car decides to eventually shit itself (excuse the language but my car has been a major source of financial strain these past few months!)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://office.microsoft.com/en-au/images/results.aspx?qu=money&ex=1&origin=FX010132103#ai:MP900442965|" target="_blank">{image source}</a></td></tr>
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I am hoping that I can push through all of this and come out on the other side, much better off. I only have to make it through the next 2 months...<br />
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Linking up with Twinkle in the Eye and With Some Grace</div>
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Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-70971595675261876032012-10-16T07:42:00.000+10:302012-10-16T07:42:52.650+10:30Slowing DownI have always admired country towns. They have such a sense of character and community, and it always feels so different to living in the busy city.<br />
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Mr M and I took an overnight trip down to the Fleurieu Peninsula on the weekend to visit his family. I organised to leave Master A with my parents for the night (doing a little happy dance) packed up the car and started on the hour and a half drive down south.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goolwa Beach</td></tr>
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When I got there the first thing I noticed was the gorgeous beaches. Much rougher than the beaches where I live, they are surf beaches. Now I have seen Jaws way too many times to go jumping into waters like this, but it was fun and maybe a little romantic to walk along the shore hand in hand, my head on his shoulder... ok so it wasn't like that, but it certainly was nice.<br />
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The second thing I noticed when meeting Mr M's family for the first time, was how relaxed they all are. I start every day in full-on-mode. From the moment I wake til the moment I go to bed it is go, go, go.<br />
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"Need to make sure that this is done before dinner."<br />
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"Have to go to the shops and get this before they close."<br />
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"Make sure I don't forget to do this or the whole world might end."<br />
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When was the last time I just pottered around the house or garden, having a BBQ with family and friends, taking the dog for a stroll down the beach, just generally enjoying life and having fun?<br />
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I'll let you in on a little secret. Now, don't get too shocked, but I am a total stress head. I worry about everything, and I go through life at about 110km an hour. As I watched people go about their daily lives in such relaxed ways it made me realize how much I want that kind of lifestyle, for me and Master A.<br />
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It scares me just how much Master A is like me. He's clumsy, loves to talk and definitely has a sweet tooth, all just like his Mummy. One thing that I would rather he didn't inherit from me, would be my stressed out attitude. I want him to take the time to enjoy life, not rush through it like he has to race to the next finish line.<br />
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<i>"Why are you rushing everywhere? The world isn't going to close!"</i><br />
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I could not remember where I read that quote if my life depended on it, but it was the very wise words of a child no older than about six. Why is it that we learn to grow up and spend our "down time" rushing around, trying to get everything finished? Why do we spend so much time at the shops, buying things?<br />
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One thing I noticed was that at 9pm on Saturday night, the only thing open in the town was one of the few service stations. All of the shops, service stations, Subway were all closed. Yet the McDonalds where I live is open 24 hours.<br />
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The people that I had the pleasure of spending the weekend with seemed to take the attitude of "work to live" rather than "live to work". It's all about the family.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful Horseshoe Bay</td></tr>
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I guess my question is, when did we become such a busy and stressed society that can't even take the time to have a lazy breakfast with family on a Sunday morning, and how do I convert my behaviour, in order to save myself and my child from a life of stress, speed and demands?<br />
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<b>When was the last time you had a mini-getaway?</b><br />
<b>Do you rush through life, or take the time to take "romantic" walks along the beach?</b><br />
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Linking up with the ever so fabulous Jess for IBOT</div>
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<a href="http://www.diaryofasahm.net/" title="IBOT"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://www.diaryofasahm.net/images/ibot.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-63161000600427222612012-10-15T09:28:00.000+10:302012-10-15T09:33:01.132+10:30Fun things to do with little kids this spring<br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: cyan; font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: Please note that this post was sponsored and written by Karimums with my own editing. </span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Spring is a beautiful time of year:
the weather is warming up, the flowers are blooming, and the days are getting
that little bit longer. Spring is the perfect time to spend more time with your
kids outdoors, or even just a great opportunity to do something new and
different to change up that tired winter routine. If you're stuck for ideas on
what to do with your little kids this spring, use these ideas as inspiration
for a fun season.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Spend more time outdoors<br />
</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Remember when you were going through
your </span><a href="http://www.karimums.com.au/"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">pregnancy</span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">, and you spent
plenty of time outdoors amongst nature? Well, spring is the perfect time to
rekindle your family's love affair with the great outdoors. You don't have to
go hiking or climb mountains; instead, take your kids to the local park
every night, or take a long weekend and drive up to the beaches - your kids
will love having the space to run around, and you'll love the feeling of
getting out of the house or the office. If that's still difficult, then try to
make use of your backyard or courtyard - have your children help you with a bit
of flower picking, or sit with them and make some daisy chains again. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Get the creative juices flowing<br />
</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">With so many beautiful flowers and
insects around, your kids won't be lacking creative inspiration. Put that
inspiration to use, and get them to strap their artistic cap on! Whether it's finger-painting<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4357804796612079302" name="_GoBack"></a>, making butterflies out of coloured paper, or taking some
photos of the local flora and fauna, there are a myriad of ways to get your
children back in touch with the Picasso within. If your kids like writing, take
them out to a local bush and then have them write about what they did and saw
while they were there; on the other hand, if you have some budding cooks, then
bake a few cupcakes and ask your kids to decorate them in a way that reminds
them of spring. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Try something new<br />
</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Spring is a time of new beginnings,
so why not get your children to try something they've never done before? Make a
'spring bucket list', and spend some time putting together a few new things
that they want to do before the season is up. Maybe your child wants to learn
how to rollerblade, or to get really good at goalkeeping. By making a spring
bucket list and crossing off things once they have been completed, you'll also
teach your children about the benefits of setting goals - it'll give them a
sense of accomplishment when they cross it off, and that can come in handy at
all stages of their life. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">No matter what you decide to do with
your kids this spring, make sure to take advantage of the beautiful sunshine
and inject some extra positivity into your family's day. Remember - summer's
just around the corner! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Taylor Jacobs is a mummy who is
trying to get into the habit of writing and scrapbooking. Her favourite thing
about spring is the beautiful flowers - she's going to make a trip to see the
Floriade festival this year.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-61274960047590345792012-10-12T07:52:00.000+10:302012-10-12T07:52:50.538+10:30The Motivation JournalDo you remember the old high school journal?<br />
<br />
You know:<br />
"Dear diary,<br />
Today Thomas looked at me. He actually noticed I was there!"<br />
<br />
Aahhh, the good old days of simplicity. When your most complicated issue was making sure you had studied for your maths test or that your best friend had stopped talking to you.<br />
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Either way, I know that my journal got me through so much of it all. Recently, I started a motivation journal. I guess in a way it's like the good old high school journal, but it's purpose, is to give me a kick in my procrastinating butt and make me take action.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiuF9DYLOGp0R7kR-rFzGazefPu1re4Y0LwagxwcrzLBh8NJ0BhDqN8m64j5dVQGwUdkWvnuwuGUJ85y2MP-nWfAox9kuT_WM4qdD4SXDukSz7fMAWaQXGzRym7GeMqvzFpQabNuDy8tpe/s1600/001+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiuF9DYLOGp0R7kR-rFzGazefPu1re4Y0LwagxwcrzLBh8NJ0BhDqN8m64j5dVQGwUdkWvnuwuGUJ85y2MP-nWfAox9kuT_WM4qdD4SXDukSz7fMAWaQXGzRym7GeMqvzFpQabNuDy8tpe/s320/001+(5).JPG" width="178" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{image source unknown}</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I struggle with motivation. I'm the first to admit I can be a little lazy at times. I am also easily overwhelmed. This is when I'm least likely to take action. So when I have an issue, or a big project, I sit down with my motivation journal and think it out, I make plans.<br />
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This is also where I keep my "vision pages". I don't have space for a vision board, so in its place I cut out pictures of things I want and glued them in to my motivation journal. I feel so young doing some cutting and pasting!<br />
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On Me and My Munchkin's Facebook page I used to post one thing I was grateful for on a daily basis. That dwindled away when I got busy or forgot to post, so although I don't do it on Facebook, I still try to get in my journal at least once a week and make a list of things I'm grateful for. My most recent list was things about me that are great. I've been having a few problems with self love the last few weeks, so this was perfect.<br />
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The motivation journal is very similar to a regular journal, but I make sure it's much more positive. I found with previous journals they could be very negative, only speaking of problems. I make sure to include things I'm excited about, wishes for the future, and if I have an issue to write about, I always make sure that I write a possible solution to the problem.<br />
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So do I have you convinced? Want your own motivation journal? My only advice is to make sure you pick out a pretty notebook to use. I always find it so much easier to write when the journal is pretty!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpw5r6iDy7Vpp7sUCsa4Tg4F6O9fhPOA1tQ8IkTbroSagxnpngYkFqzdr-n0PZXvzZ5pvAHdHf3DrtSqHC1nit0aC7h1WuC87Wr0fyUX9Jaeq8NUCOuEBpSFAws0GYR-WItJMsw3dsFWme/s1600/Journal+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpw5r6iDy7Vpp7sUCsa4Tg4F6O9fhPOA1tQ8IkTbroSagxnpngYkFqzdr-n0PZXvzZ5pvAHdHf3DrtSqHC1nit0aC7h1WuC87Wr0fyUX9Jaeq8NUCOuEBpSFAws0GYR-WItJMsw3dsFWme/s1600/Journal+2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://storybookloveaffair.blogspot.com.au/2012/01/in-pictures-journals-and-notebooks.html" target="_blank">{image source}</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Did you keep a journal in high school?</b><br />
<b>Do you keep one now?</b><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
It's Friday so I am flogging my blog over with the lovely Grace at With Some Grace, head over there for even more awesome bloggers!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<center>
<a href="http://www.withsomegrace.com/fybf-2/">
<img src="http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t405/digitalparentsaus/fybf.gif" width="155" /></a></center>
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Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-61977814333787265382012-10-10T13:02:00.002+10:302012-10-10T13:02:30.711+10:30Bitter to Bad Ass in 12 Months!After looking at my diary I realized that today marks 12 months since I became a single Mum. Yes I know, I know, not exactly an achievement to be boasting about (how to lose a guy in 10 days, anyone?) but it does mean that I now have 12 months of growing and extreme shocks to the system under my belt.<br />
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Look at it this way, 12 months ago I was unhappy, wallowing in self pity and bitterness, balancing on the borderline between depression and auto pilot mode. I was lonely, kidding myself by saying I was ready to move on (and yes, move on is exactly what I did). I was feeling so guilty about leaving my ex, breaking his heart and taking his son away from him. By the way, I should really add that I'm really not a bitch, generally speaking!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRwX7_y20tUzEGvi2zumr3mnFKNrnEZKiLeGZy9wiy2sGNKKUIPtNkWfkduuVA55VPHyYlyTZegG-4fSa3KKpa5fjVq-ySebNNJrIYtPofoEizvCAAFjK8QdXet_1IwWHW2FV4UQze6PPv/s1600/020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRwX7_y20tUzEGvi2zumr3mnFKNrnEZKiLeGZy9wiy2sGNKKUIPtNkWfkduuVA55VPHyYlyTZegG-4fSa3KKpa5fjVq-ySebNNJrIYtPofoEizvCAAFjK8QdXet_1IwWHW2FV4UQze6PPv/s320/020.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me 12 months ago</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have done so much growing in the last year I hardly recognize that girl anymore. I say <i>girl</i> deliberately. I was not acting like a grown up. I have been forced to grow up now. I no longer have anyone to fall back on. Yes I have support, and it is great. But when it comes to my son, I'm his mother, I'm his primary carer and it is my responsibility to look after his best interests.<br />
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I know how excited you all to hear about how different I am today so here it is: I take responsibility for my actions. When I make a decision Master A is the first thing that crosses my mind. After a year long battle with my ex that has turned nasty, I no longer feel guilty, as he shows that he has no respect for me. I became comfortable in my own company, even enjoying it. It was then that I met Mr M. He has added joy to my life, but he hasn't <i>"completed"</i> it. I have finally left the past exactly where it needed to be: In the past! This is something that has taken me 5 years to do. Most of all, I am happy! Of course, I have my days where it all gets too much. Who doesn't? Seriously, do you know anyone that doesn't? But the point is, I am much happier, and grown up since being on my own, and that is what tells me I made the right decision.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mdAe_oA2fzuKxUxGVmNu4rjgrzsEhLQVo_mOyL6I0wVNCxWBl8KERjF3u0V9Uhk40oDdclYVEENYt7vaHxUuIj1az6yO6gLoHnncJMSjWVsUH7w6OOm-HStpQ8-GyzZzQa9BbGjiJf1q/s1600/P1010433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mdAe_oA2fzuKxUxGVmNu4rjgrzsEhLQVo_mOyL6I0wVNCxWBl8KERjF3u0V9Uhk40oDdclYVEENYt7vaHxUuIj1az6yO6gLoHnncJMSjWVsUH7w6OOm-HStpQ8-GyzZzQa9BbGjiJf1q/s320/P1010433.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me 12 days ago</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Where were you emotionally 12 months ago?</b><br />
<b>Have you ever looked at your past self and not recognized them?</b><br />
<b>How about someone you know? Or thought you knew?</b>Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-52052557723593628122012-10-09T08:28:00.000+10:302012-10-09T08:28:43.637+10:30A Letter to 17 Year Old MeDear 17 year old me,<br />
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It's ok. Really, it is. You don't need to know the answers to the world. You don't need to stress about the future. The future will happen, whether or not you get worked up about it. And while you're at it, don't be in such a rush to grow up. Take your time and enjoy it. Live dangerously and have some fun. The responsibility will still be there later on.<br />
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Don't worry about getting your heart broken. Yes you've been with him for years but he really isn't the right guy for you. It will take you a few years and yes, more heart breaks before you find someone who's right for you. But never be afraid to be alone. You will get to that point I promise.<br />
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Find things that you love to do. And do them well. It will take you awhile before you find a career that you love. Yes, you will fail, but you will also succeed. As the saying goes, dust yourself and try again.<br />
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PLEASE learn more about style. Even in your twenties you still have no idea and dress like a slob 9/10 times!<br />
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If I only had one thing I could tell you, save your pennies! Adapt a no-shopping life, and for gods sake, stay away from credit cards and personal loans!<br />
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Finally, believe in yourself. You CAN do it, you ARE smart and you only need to apply yourself to whatever it is you are doing to succeed. Work hard, play harder and be good to your family and friends because you will need their support one day.<br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Twenty-something year old you.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVxhO6__-FtivnqpspY_HwmcPGK3gsvDedQGuV-SmwuU51MHIpjQ8QrDray7QY3DRXc1pEzhZwEl3POAJeCRSMimL4bvJ8TPi_iyzkKp0f2bmcC3I7dX3cBXH4bknqW21gtTo1NIZ4IUS/s1600/me+at+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVxhO6__-FtivnqpspY_HwmcPGK3gsvDedQGuV-SmwuU51MHIpjQ8QrDray7QY3DRXc1pEzhZwEl3POAJeCRSMimL4bvJ8TPi_iyzkKp0f2bmcC3I7dX3cBXH4bknqW21gtTo1NIZ4IUS/s320/me+at+17.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A 17-year-old me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Linking up with Jess at Diary of a SAHM for IBOT!</div>
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<a href="http://www.diaryofasahm.net/" title="IBOT"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://www.diaryofasahm.net/images/ibot.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-28024582561386763952012-10-05T06:16:00.000+09:302012-10-12T19:32:42.783+10:30Review: Natures Cuppa Organic Tea + Giveaway!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">This giveaway has ended. Thank you to all who entered, the winners have now been drawn. Congratulations to Taryn and Lisa!</span></div>
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My readers who have followed me right from the beginning of my blog would know that I have never been a tea or coffee drinker. I am a reformed iced-coffee addict, but never got into the whole cup of tea or skinny latte thing.<br />
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Well, I am adapting a bit of a lifestyle change. On my to-do list accompanying said lifestyle change was to find a flavor of tea that I enjoyed and found soothing and calming.</div>
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You can imagine my delight when I received a pack of Nature's Cuppa Organic Tea in the post. <a href="http://www.naturescuppa.com/" target="_blank">Nature's Cuppa</a> is certified <a href="http://www.fairtrade.com.au/" target="_blank">Fairtrade</a>, and their tea and coffee are 100% eco-organic and environmentally sustainable.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEw2vGsWfmMx3Eok5X5K3pM5_FtBLPjTbzKlQSx9leLM3BovL_6Fk-cXqYVXmds3JplohQt6U9QvsQBIxBwOVT57ymvNofZuAfZ6tPh5hPLx0nbFrbpmyiQTaHtGsCM-CGMC3K5TZQQ_Rz/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEw2vGsWfmMx3Eok5X5K3pM5_FtBLPjTbzKlQSx9leLM3BovL_6Fk-cXqYVXmds3JplohQt6U9QvsQBIxBwOVT57ymvNofZuAfZ6tPh5hPLx0nbFrbpmyiQTaHtGsCM-CGMC3K5TZQQ_Rz/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Their range of tea and coffee include:</div>
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<ul>
<li>Ceylon Tea</li>
<li>English Breakfast</li>
<li>Green Tea</li>
<li>Earl Grey</li>
<li>Peppermint</li>
<li>Chamomile</li>
<li>Chai Spice Tea</li>
<li>Freeze Dried Coffee</li>
<li>Espresso</li>
<li>Non-Organic Coffee Alternative (caffeine free)</li>
</ul>
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In the past I have had the odd cup of tea though never really enjoyed it. When my samples arrived in the post I dived right in, trying each flavour with the exception of the Chai Spice and the coffee, which Mr M and my Mum tried instead. I was pleasantly surprised and have now found my new afternoon drink! </div>
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So which flavour came out on top for me?</div>
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Definitely going to go with the Earl Grey tea. I found it much sweeter than the other flavours and lets face it, I really do have a sweet tooth!<br />
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<a href="http://www.naturescuppa.com/" target="_blank">Nature's Cuppa</a> is available to purchase from Woolworths, Coles, IGA, selected Foodworks and health food stores and also from their website.<br />
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Nature's Cuppa are also giving away not one but two awesome sample packs to Me and My Munchkin readers. They contain a selection of flavours including English Breakfast, Chai Spice, Green Tea, Ceylon Tea, Peppermint, Earl Grey, Ceylon for tea pots and Freeze Dried Coffee.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV6NGTe0r97Al6Zdf9YX4j7X7hMnyV0neVcbUvdes9dLpciwItjjRPMPsb073seGCYkWhDl6qnfa8ZsJ7ye8Tr34XZh922D1f9-iMUNgb2pyt-6nlLMTXekAQrkE06OMW4P0BejavXwyEI/s1600/pic1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV6NGTe0r97Al6Zdf9YX4j7X7hMnyV0neVcbUvdes9dLpciwItjjRPMPsb073seGCYkWhDl6qnfa8ZsJ7ye8Tr34XZh922D1f9-iMUNgb2pyt-6nlLMTXekAQrkE06OMW4P0BejavXwyEI/s320/pic1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Terms and Conditions</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. This giveaway is open to Australian residents only</div>
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2. Entries close at 12:01am on 12/10/2012</div>
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3. Winners must make contact within 4 days of being contacted otherwise a new winner will be drawn</div>
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4.Winners are chosen randomly by Rafflecopter</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5. Prizes can not be transferred or redeemed for cash or any other prizes</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6. Prizes will not be replaced in the event that they are lost or damaged in transit</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
7. Once the giveaway is completed and winners chosen, there will be no correspondence entered into regarding choice of winners.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: I have not received any money for publishing this post. I was sent a sample pack to review and all opinions are my own.</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/1e9c960/" id="rc-1e9c960" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script><br />
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It's Friday so I'm flashing my blog over at Twinkle in the Eye, and of course flogging it as well, over at With Some Grace. Head over and check out some awesome bloggers!<br />
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Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-62171944509601438192012-10-03T08:46:00.003+09:302012-10-03T12:13:03.414+09:30A Boy Turns Two!On Saturday, Master A turned 2. I was looking forward to it for months, though at the same time not wanting my baby to grow up.<br />
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I am good at different things, but birthday parties really aren't a part of my range of skills. However, I managed to pull off a very basic party at our local playground.<br />
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A beautiful sunny afternoon in the middle of a rainy weekend, my awesome friends and family, and the help of my Mum and Mr M meant that we had a fun, relaxing day. Here are just a few photos:<br />
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Linking up with <a href="http://www.twinkleintheeyeblog.com/" target="_blank">Twinkle in the Eye</a> and <a href="http://mylittledrummerboys.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">My Little Drummer Boys</a> for Wordless Wednesday</div>
Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-20592921353774363142012-10-02T09:22:00.002+09:302012-10-03T12:13:28.059+09:30Sick Little MunchkinsI was scrolling through my Facebook newsfeed a few days ago, and came across an interesting post. It was a reader question from <a href="http://www.theimperfectmum.com.au/" target="_blank">The Imperfect Mum</a>. You can visit the Facebook page <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Theimperfectmum?fref=ts" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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The question basically outlined "sick child etiquette". The poster had asked whether it was acceptable for her to cancel on her friends at the last minute and not babysit their children if they were sick, as she didn't want the germs in her house.<br />
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As you can imagine, there was an array of responses, ranging from "you did exactly what I would do" to "I think you were a bit extreme in these circumstances" to the rather unhelpful "you're a terrible friend and a complete bitch".<br />
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So it got me thinking, when is it acceptable to ask your friends to catch up for a playdate, or babysit your children when they are sick?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sick little Munchkin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I am a mother that likes my child home with me when he is sick. Especially if it's asthma-related. Most of the time, if Master A is sick, he won't even go to his dad's house for the day. If it's only a cold and a bit of a cough, he will go, otherwise he stays home with me.<br />
<br />
What about playdates?<br />
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I will always disclose if Master is or has been sick in the last week, and allow the other parent to make the decision if they still want to attend the playdate with us. However, this is only if it's a cold, mild asthma or a bit of a teething fever. Anything along the lines of gastro, the flu, a more severe bout of asthma or tonsillitis and I cancel altogether. I don't want to spread our germs and make others sick.<br />
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Unfortunately I am not always offered the same courtesy. I can't even count the amount of times we have turned up for a playdate and found out that everyone in the house is sick. Of course I don't want to look rude by turning around and leaving, however I do wish that I was told before we got there.<br />
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This seems to be a very personal issue, with opinions varying from person to person. Some people would rather expose their children to illness in hopes of building their immune system, others saying simply that kids will get sick anywhere. Then some saying they try to keep out of contact with sick people to prevent their children getting sick.<br />
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Me? I make an informed decision at the time. How sick is the person? What is it they have? Is the illness overly contagious and also what are my plans like for the next week. Do we have a full week coming up that neither of us can afford to get sick? If so then better to be safe than sorry.<br />
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No I can't stop my child from getting sick, but I can help to prevent it, and that is what I will do.<br />
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<b>What do you do when your child is sick?</b><br />
<b>Do you send them to daycare or take them on playdates?</b><br />
<b>Have you ever turned up to a playdate to find the other child sick?</b><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Linking up with the lovely Jess from Diary of a SAHM for IBOT</div>
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Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-11519721637763154252012-09-25T06:57:00.000+09:302012-10-03T12:14:33.729+09:30Guest Post: Household Contribution Schedule + Free Printable!<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
When there’s a job to do … there’s just a job to do!<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
If there is one life-lesson that I want to teach my kids
before they leave my nest it is WORK ETHIC.<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
I want for them to experience the pride and satisfaction
that comes with a job well done. I want for them to have the knowledge and
belief that working hard brings pay offs – sometimes these are external rewards
but much more often they are warm and fuzzy ones.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This all starts at home.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Work ethic is not always an easy principle for us, as
parents, to teach and nor is it a given that kids will readily learn. We do
have to try though, don’t we, and at our place organisation and persistence are
key strategies.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I try to think of our household as a mini society. It’s a
little world within the world and a place that can only function smoothly when
each citizen aka family member fulfils their responsibilities. To do this, I
have replaced the traditional “chore chart” with an outline of what each family
member is expected to contribute to the running of the household. It’s then my
hope that the kids will learn that the privileges they enjoy are not God-given
rights, but rather the reward resulting from contributing to running of the
family.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve attached a sample chart – very similar to the one on
display in our kitchen ;) – that shows how our schedule works. I’ve tried to
make it very clear that contributing to the functioning of the household is a
given and is expected by adults and kids alike. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7iPtOa1ivwmpeVK1boU6o8Io1x-zMHxBE4-jkAmosVaHTzf2pUbg1Uzxkbd1U6zR90OoC5fMDCOX1XEdn8UpB7Vg909Vg3CxYch44wNbuQX00sMlQUluoG2zNXD20un-pm-G0Zh7OlD9c/s1600/Untitled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7iPtOa1ivwmpeVK1boU6o8Io1x-zMHxBE4-jkAmosVaHTzf2pUbg1Uzxkbd1U6zR90OoC5fMDCOX1XEdn8UpB7Vg909Vg3CxYch44wNbuQX00sMlQUluoG2zNXD20un-pm-G0Zh7OlD9c/s320/Untitled.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
In keeping it real, I’ll readily admit that we are on draft
upteen-thousand of this and as the kids grow, and our household routines alter,
I make tweaks and changes where necessary. Sometimes these changes are in
consultation with the kids – but nope, not always. I figure they may as well
learn now that there will always be times in their lives where they just have
to do what they have to do. Whether they like it, or not, sometimes it’s just
suck-it-up-time.<br />
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When nominating what I expect each child to contribute to
the household, there are a number of factors I keep in mind …. <br />
<br /></div>
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal">Age appropriateness –
increasing the number and/or complexity of contributions as the kids grow
and mature (and likewise the privileges are upped accordingly)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Geared towards success –
never so many things to do it’s overwhelming, nor are tasks too difficult</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Leading by example to
ensure I also contribute what I’ve committed to</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Discussing the
expectations to make sure they are clearly communicated and understood</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Honouring the privileges
and rewards and consistently following through with consequences when contributions
are not made.</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Do your kids chip in and help around the house? Do you have
a chore chart or have you just made them aware of what you require them to do?
Would love to hear how your household works!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
View my sample Household Schedule <a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B8IqGg0tDXXidGs1UUdpMkNQeVk" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Download your own Household Schedule <a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B8IqGg0tDXXiOFBiMmMyZXJvTzA" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Author Note:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Shari Brewer is an educator, writer and the blogger at <a href="http://www.familysurvivalcoach.com/">http://www.familysurvivalcoach.com</a>
. It’s a place for exploring a whole range of household and family stuff and
topics include – budgeting, reviews, family stories, organisation and more. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just remember that it’s really about surviving it all!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Linking up with Diary of a SAHM for IBOT</div>
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<a href="http://www.diaryofasahm.net/" title="IBOT"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://www.diaryofasahm.net/images/ibot.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-23957380731522747382012-09-19T09:51:00.001+09:302012-10-03T12:15:28.502+09:30A Trip to the Zoo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On Saturday we made a trip to the Adelaide Zoo. It was the first time I had been in over 10 years, so I think that quite possibly, I was even more excited than Master A about going to see the animals!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYzXIQwoe7FlXzfAOqPjJV2ZTbDPtxlKbPdlenT_lve8SySq6tyYVVWhQT2D3CGZk0L22319gqAXmDsA2atIzxtbyJaI9uyQMTdnaE5jTXtu3CWbCr3DSQQEDgXSudiVXwWMe00SwlUNpz/s1600/P1010389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYzXIQwoe7FlXzfAOqPjJV2ZTbDPtxlKbPdlenT_lve8SySq6tyYVVWhQT2D3CGZk0L22319gqAXmDsA2atIzxtbyJaI9uyQMTdnaE5jTXtu3CWbCr3DSQQEDgXSudiVXwWMe00SwlUNpz/s320/P1010389.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting a bit freaked out in the children's zoo</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEHtWHnXTtHm09w7-2zcik4bo2qF1NOYvalqXwHQwhHBxoyzt7Y7ufFPKZ-xe2mlU4vBS22BmFpT8XOowmYMPOlxqRkPQjGj13GzmVmOOOTf8jqUwjr1NwLOU2xz6HA5Nllwkm-qLNFfWi/s1600/P1010400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEHtWHnXTtHm09w7-2zcik4bo2qF1NOYvalqXwHQwhHBxoyzt7Y7ufFPKZ-xe2mlU4vBS22BmFpT8XOowmYMPOlxqRkPQjGj13GzmVmOOOTf8jqUwjr1NwLOU2xz6HA5Nllwkm-qLNFfWi/s320/P1010400.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watching the "fish" (sea lions)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLYcdZQuc_nXtnTSeP5-vA_WpoqkW46Aj2SrA6HjFmZvBAyxP_fTt3XkKfYJbf5zaudecZ2p4Gy9OkQ42Wxldrr6Z4i1n2V6YiKGCeAkUqNfSjOR3U1XPKNQYo6oYnGG6gM8V8XUAru0q7/s1600/P1010405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLYcdZQuc_nXtnTSeP5-vA_WpoqkW46Aj2SrA6HjFmZvBAyxP_fTt3XkKfYJbf5zaudecZ2p4Gy9OkQ42Wxldrr6Z4i1n2V6YiKGCeAkUqNfSjOR3U1XPKNQYo6oYnGG6gM8V8XUAru0q7/s320/P1010405.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A big cuddly looking bear</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our favorite animal, the beautiful giraffe<br /></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguYb9KVlqWyP3BaLJ-8M0eTbRkq1vpvZTE0xN_7qnV4yHV2ZCcCgU_TOhX1nypAy1osGFlPq2KcxHwd3vTrDeJm63JeenJkjip1fzdXRVRpl55kPmdm9FlFs1A0cHaz6oKoeJFRI1B9yuZ/s1600/277619_10151085290618867_925138034_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguYb9KVlqWyP3BaLJ-8M0eTbRkq1vpvZTE0xN_7qnV4yHV2ZCcCgU_TOhX1nypAy1osGFlPq2KcxHwd3vTrDeJm63JeenJkjip1fzdXRVRpl55kPmdm9FlFs1A0cHaz6oKoeJFRI1B9yuZ/s320/277619_10151085290618867_925138034_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Panda bears</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgWdhAZ1rhLYBuPaRWmZ03xGNY4zIk8Y2kZ_EDKKC7w83VxGv8zfahMl5hrFIOr5VbTOMnh5GRdebj2qM_3YJvs_czlSd2Cl5xZ2wdC332ldLKYGURFzUPMTni7GT9Bm-OB9xb3B5Mtv6H/s1600/622181_10151085291188867_1150279420_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgWdhAZ1rhLYBuPaRWmZ03xGNY4zIk8Y2kZ_EDKKC7w83VxGv8zfahMl5hrFIOr5VbTOMnh5GRdebj2qM_3YJvs_czlSd2Cl5xZ2wdC332ldLKYGURFzUPMTni7GT9Bm-OB9xb3B5Mtv6H/s320/622181_10151085291188867_1150279420_o.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exhausted on the way home, clutching his new crocodile</td></tr>
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Linking up for the first time ever for Wordless Wednesdays with <a href="http://www.twinkleintheeyeblog.com/" target="_blank">Twinkle in the Eye</a> and <a href="http://mylittledrummerboys.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">My Little Drummer Boys</a>.</div>
Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-75347541792549489182012-09-18T06:40:00.002+09:302012-10-03T12:15:28.505+09:30Yes, I Cheated... And it Feels Terrible!So Friday night was yet another finals round in the AFL. Being a Port Power supporter, it's been awhile since I have watched a finals game from start to finish. Or even paid attention to who's where on the ladder once the finals rounds start.<br />
<br />
Then of course I had to start dating an Adelaide Crows supporter. Not only do I have to listen to jokes about how bad Power played this season (actually and the last couple of seasons!) but I'm expected to tag along to the Crows games and cheer for them.<br />
<br />
Now it would be so easy for me to just say "Screw the Power! They're losers! I'm gonna barrack for the winning South Australian team!" but I am loyal and I stand by my boys, no matter how bad they are playing.<br />
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Needless to say, going along to my 2nd Crows game felt a little like cheating. I have gone against what feels normal and wanted the Crows to win their last few games, so that I have a happy boyfriend. But expecting me to come to the games is surely asking too much right?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVSAqWMuheOGMRd6Jya7zaqt-o999ks7qtFW8i_NDE93AzwbuLXWqSMNuPrY6I0ETKAOBcRhHoSNUc1fJC69F6LF31BuG2DwH4gh8QAzxuM2fGNqHcNl_EKIFXEpHv9qNhGaff6perVYL/s1600/City+of+Bristol-20120902-00467.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVSAqWMuheOGMRd6Jya7zaqt-o999ks7qtFW8i_NDE93AzwbuLXWqSMNuPrY6I0ETKAOBcRhHoSNUc1fJC69F6LF31BuG2DwH4gh8QAzxuM2fGNqHcNl_EKIFXEpHv9qNhGaff6perVYL/s320/City+of+Bristol-20120902-00467.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://crowsfootyinfo.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">{image source}</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I went to my first Crows game a little over a month ago. I sat in silence, mostly because I was freezing cold and WAY underdressed (I was in jeans, a long sleeved top, a hoodie and knee high boots!) but also because I just couldn't bring myself to cheer for them. It felt wrong.<br />
I tried to get out of going to the game on Friday, which incidentally was against the same team as the first game I attended but Mr M was hell-bent on me going (something about me being a lucky charm because they won the first game I attended).<br />
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I downed a can of Red Bull on the way to AAMI Stadium, thinking of it as a chance to get out of the house for the night. I sat in our undercover seats, this time wearing fleecy track pants and a big thick jacket, and I waited for the game to start. Mr M next to me was, of course, totally excited. His Mum and sister next to us, just as excited.<br />
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I made a promise to myself right there and then that I would make an effort to cheer for the Crows that night. I hoped they would win, because I knew that it would make Mr M happy. And of course we all know that a happy man means we all win!<br />
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My efforts did not go unnoticed. I was commended (and maybe made fun of just a little bit) for cheering for "the right team". I have to admit though, I felt like I needed to shower when I got home and as though I had done the dirty on my football team! But I had one happy man, and I got some brownie points for making the effort!<br />
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<b>Do you ever go against what feels right just to make your man happy?</b><br />
<b>What AFL team do you support?</b><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
It's Tuesday so I'm linking up with Diary of a SAHM for IBOT</div>
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<a href="http://www.diaryofasahm.net/" title="IBOT"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://www.diaryofasahm.net/images/ibot.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-30685368770901032382012-09-14T07:48:00.000+09:302012-10-03T12:22:46.839+09:30Lists, Lists and More Lists!I have been talking lately about being a little time poor, and having <strike>awful</strike> not so good time management skills. Well, I have been tackling these issues the last few weeks, and I must say, so far I am pretty proud of my results.<br />
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The first thing I did, was start writing lists (oh lists how I love thee!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSjRafT9L7AxKul1muXARGbACFvYBUm9hkobHEKRGqKxiaz7qa1KrIV0J2CW6OGfOMFyLbkEvZhb4yLLCbJYW1YQnKXz3qmpzMXiWUR-DA20aX6YD-SLtUExjjWpi9L6jxRT8c1_5y2CC/s1600/Lists.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSjRafT9L7AxKul1muXARGbACFvYBUm9hkobHEKRGqKxiaz7qa1KrIV0J2CW6OGfOMFyLbkEvZhb4yLLCbJYW1YQnKXz3qmpzMXiWUR-DA20aX6YD-SLtUExjjWpi9L6jxRT8c1_5y2CC/s320/Lists.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I started with a list of what needs to be done on a daily and weekly basis. My daily list included things like meals, exercise, washing, and preparation for the next day. The weekly list included grocery shopping, changing the beds, housework, etc.<br />
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After that I mapped out Master A's schedule. He already wakes, naps, has dinner and goes to bed at the same time each day, I just needed to add in a time to make sure we are ready for the day by, and morning and afternoon teas (more info on Master A's food and meals to come in a later post).<br />
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I then did a list of Monday to Sunday and scheduled each job that needs to be done (including studying and blogging, which are my real issues right now) into a day. Friday is my housework day, Wednesday I need to do some reading for Tafe and some blogging, etc. I don't have set times for these. With Master A's age, it really is too difficult to schedule my time and jobs around him.<br />
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The last lists I made were morning, day and night routines. I have aimed for us to be dressed, ready to face the day by 8:30am. The morning routine tells me what needs to be done for that to happen. I should mention that as of next week, I will be getting up an hour earlier than Master A to get myself dressed, have a healthy breakfast and have his all ready to go for when he wakes.<br />
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The day routine consists of things like ensuring a load of washing goes on in the morning, going for a walk after Master A wakes from his nap, or after lunch and making sure dinner is prepared for the night.<br />
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The night routine is pretty straight forward. The only things I have changed is to add a quick tidy of Master A's room and unpacking his bag and repacking for the next day.<br />
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As you can see I typed these up in word and printed them out for convenience (and just coz they looked prettier!)<br />
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I am now trying to tackle my procrastination issues. Not so much of my day spent on Facebook or sitting around watching TV, which I have been so bad for since the renovations started in our kitchen.<br />
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I have a plan for the day in my motivation journal - more on this later this week and I make sure I make time for the fun things with Master A.<br />
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<b>Do you have routines in your house?</b><br />
<b>If you are a work at home/study at home mum, how do you balance your time and still get time out?</b><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
And of course because it's Friday I am linking up for the first time in a few weeks with the gorgeous Grace over at With Some Grace for Flog Yo Blog Friday...</div>
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<a href="http://www.withsomegrace.com/fybf-2/">
<img src="http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t405/digitalparentsaus/fybf.gif" width="155" /></a></center>
<br />
... And also the beautiful Bree over at Twinkle in the Eye for Flash Blog Friday!<br />
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<a href="http://www.twinkleintheeyeblog.com/"><img src=" http://i1059.photobucket.com/albums/t434/hbbcustom/twinkleintheye/breeflashbutton.jpg" /></a>
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Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-23754749193111009912012-09-13T11:47:00.001+09:302012-09-13T11:47:35.137+09:30Where I've BeenOk, so the last month or so I have cut right back on blogging. I have had a little break from lots of things. I have cut back on my time spent with friends, studying, and have been spending a lot more one on one time with Master A, and also putting time into my <a href="http://meandmymunchkin.blogspot.com.au/2012/09/the-dating-game.html" target="_blank">new relationship</a>.<br />
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So where am I at? I am still behind in Tafe, but have come to the conclusion that I can only do what I can do. I am struggling financially, coming up to the jolly season. I am slowly still trying to de-clutter when I can, and trying to take some me time.<br />
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So what can you expect from me over the next few months? I am going to make an attempt to post more often again. I have some awesome posts coming your way. Including how I have organised my days and weeks, my motivation journal, and our morning routine.<br />
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I told you I would <a href="http://meandmymunchkin.blogspot.com.au/2012/08/cutting-back.html" target="_blank">come back</a>, and here I am!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdXbAaoAyBsYsPKTKMv4kf_Rpcb3Fm8nvffQUQkHj8T9s7VY-BKC3XfCMJEuth_eF3DBBeyftHCRbSI1M6AaraPKCYwebA8ypTKRMS2vLmK3XT1mlIrwdyHLTYoLLMGOzgD_cYwpByzRcD/s1600/Pic1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdXbAaoAyBsYsPKTKMv4kf_Rpcb3Fm8nvffQUQkHj8T9s7VY-BKC3XfCMJEuth_eF3DBBeyftHCRbSI1M6AaraPKCYwebA8ypTKRMS2vLmK3XT1mlIrwdyHLTYoLLMGOzgD_cYwpByzRcD/s320/Pic1.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We're back!!</td></tr>
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<br />Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-45603497546862667302012-09-06T09:57:00.000+09:302012-10-03T09:06:17.867+09:30The Dating GameMy regular followers, and those on my personal Facebook page would know that I have started dating again. Being a single Mum in the dating world isn't easy, but luckily, I seem to have found a winner and that makes it so much easier!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9RI1kn-_Tjs7e-ngPqCAprptsxjwgAUoVsT664ZZv85mmyt90C5K8kBsGRnbIBggBYKlSg_LwP00U4RhEzTnEbVeQcV82PDM3a-bZ5sYkl9OlvGsRtTt6MRvrALCqdFYbKuQzDtMbVfAC/s1600/100064422940126384_28II3y6E_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9RI1kn-_Tjs7e-ngPqCAprptsxjwgAUoVsT664ZZv85mmyt90C5K8kBsGRnbIBggBYKlSg_LwP00U4RhEzTnEbVeQcV82PDM3a-bZ5sYkl9OlvGsRtTt6MRvrALCqdFYbKuQzDtMbVfAC/s320/100064422940126384_28II3y6E_f.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/100064422940126384/" target="_blank">{image source}</a></td></tr>
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I dated someone briefly at the beginning of the year, though found I just wasn't ready, and the relationship fizzled right out before it was given a chance. Looking back now, I'm glad it did, because that person was definitely not right for me!<br />
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This time around I'm much happier. I'm happier with myself, and confident that I can enter into a relationship without issues.</div>
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The hard part? Trying to start a relationship with someone when you have your son virtually full time. </div>
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Master A does not currently spend nights with his Dad, just 3 days a fortnight. Because of this, Master A was introduced a little earlier than I had hoped, but I made do. I am extremely lucky that my Mum is so helpful with babysitting. I have a theory that she is thinking if I can develop a relationship, maybe I'll move out!</div>
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The new man in my life has made a huge effort with Master A, right from day one. He plays with him, talks to him and includes him, without forcing it. Believe me, this makes all the difference. Sadly, I have seen men who just can't accept that the woman they are seeing has another mans child. </div>
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So what have I found hard about dating with a young child? Staying out late after a date is not possible. Impromptu sleepovers are non existant. Actually, sleepovers of any kind just don't happen. Privacy is an issue. Living with my folks, I have none at my house! And I always feel I need to check with them before having him over for dinner - yep, it's like high school all over again!</div>
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Even with all these obstacles, I could not be happier, and love that I have found someone who understands, and is willing to stay in and watch TV with me instead of heading out every weekend. I've been terribly lucky (can you tell we're still in the honeymoon stage?) and I am hopeful it all works out.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVPawehPHS4j1RO4C_bjBmLYlAYL_AhZ5EpqaZ1ddiF5K1iRsNgFJte3ONzOc5Lg8yjUpOqh_4IbPBra0WXOAc4wpMqtJEzjOz-ggJ3YpnJuCZeeb40zKLoaKp6gszCt-UzVOP8JbGJNiJ/s1600/184366178464995373_OB5TwxZW_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVPawehPHS4j1RO4C_bjBmLYlAYL_AhZ5EpqaZ1ddiF5K1iRsNgFJte3ONzOc5Lg8yjUpOqh_4IbPBra0WXOAc4wpMqtJEzjOz-ggJ3YpnJuCZeeb40zKLoaKp6gszCt-UzVOP8JbGJNiJ/s1600/184366178464995373_OB5TwxZW_b.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{image source unknown}</td></tr>
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Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-77115009156562913122012-08-30T15:13:00.000+09:302012-10-03T12:14:33.736+09:30Father's Day for the Solo ParentFather's day is coming up, which for lots of fathers means a hot breakfast in bed, accompanied by some kind of power tool gift, or perhaps just some socks and jocks. Mother's day can be very much the same (if we're lucky!) but with some kind of new kitchen appliance or a new pair of uggies.<br />
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Solo parents means all rules are thrown out when it comes to Mother's and Fathers days. If the other parent is still even around, you need to decide whether you will do gifts, and how much you will spend.<br />
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We are about to come up to the 12 month mark of when Master A's dad and I split up. We split about 2 weeks before his dad's birthday, so I was happy to buy a copy of the new Big Bang Theory season on DVD for him. For Christmas we exchanged small gifts and agreed to keep exchanging gifts "from Master A" for things like birthdays, Mothers and Fathers days and Christmas.<br />
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I wanted to keep this up, to teach Master A about the importance of giving, and that Mummy and Daddy can still be friendly and do the right thing.<br />
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My birthday came next, and my present was nowhere to be seen. It came about 4 weeks later. Yes, I was a little annoyed seeing as I did make an effort to ensure I did the right thing and on time!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvECWzBrnMik7_pog_Z-M4RDdBktpiJwjE-TQFjdIxkx78k58ZfgGhaULaeebTpNdC_7Sr1RyhP1jQAX6IWAO_8HLQqjemKfnRUs4kPqZnFnLZ8iRzvcExO3onLg9TRp20UxZCyMIvbm9n/s1600/Fathersday3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvECWzBrnMik7_pog_Z-M4RDdBktpiJwjE-TQFjdIxkx78k58ZfgGhaULaeebTpNdC_7Sr1RyhP1jQAX6IWAO_8HLQqjemKfnRUs4kPqZnFnLZ8iRzvcExO3onLg9TRp20UxZCyMIvbm9n/s320/Fathersday3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My birthday present from Munchkin this year. 4 weeks late but an awesome present! How did he know?</td></tr>
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Mother's day came around, and I got a card. Nothing more, nothing less. It was at this point that I told my ex I would no longer participate in gift-giving. If he wanted a gift from Master A, his mother could organise it, and I knew that my Mum would do the same thing for me.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi45j3IqkG8eFzoqXbFKlNCHwhazqUq9PU-ymSS8pmrs5H5h0GirhBgFIbXQ3lBt3GOVuW6OdICB8HcIHH0sPhWEMFPTHDB_D9Nqp18JSsJ2HyLhDTKpxTRVOZthYOCWXUZbq0vHxNMxM0I/s1600/Fathersday2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi45j3IqkG8eFzoqXbFKlNCHwhazqUq9PU-ymSS8pmrs5H5h0GirhBgFIbXQ3lBt3GOVuW6OdICB8HcIHH0sPhWEMFPTHDB_D9Nqp18JSsJ2HyLhDTKpxTRVOZthYOCWXUZbq0vHxNMxM0I/s320/Fathersday2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cards for Mother's Day, including a handmade one from Daycare. Love this boy so much!</td></tr>
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Now that Father's day is only a few days away, I have decided that my original wish of teaching Master A the nice thing to do is more important. I have bought a card, gone through hell to get Master A to do a painting for him, and will be heading to JB Hifi tomorrow to get a small value gift card to give him.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2NNGGeASIKc5j_8Gu5Fd7fdWa1Llw_fJ3hY_5gAbpd9aZnvMKBAHvGHgkyk_Yn8fhiuTbAX6LLOc2F9qPeXcmYkngnksPaxRj6I8hqKl6rpvTQiUXMc6TK-3H3skt1o3jkEAQAmIPSVp/s1600/Fathersday1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2NNGGeASIKc5j_8Gu5Fd7fdWa1Llw_fJ3hY_5gAbpd9aZnvMKBAHvGHgkyk_Yn8fhiuTbAX6LLOc2F9qPeXcmYkngnksPaxRj6I8hqKl6rpvTQiUXMc6TK-3H3skt1o3jkEAQAmIPSVp/s320/Fathersday1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I must say that the thought that I am going to look like the bigger person is making me feel a little better about it (yes I know, vein!) but I have come to the conclusion that one of us has to teach Munchkin the right thing to do. It's a small present that hasn't cost me much, and I'm sure he will get a much nicer gift from his girlfriend's child, but it sends the correct message to Master A, and that is the most important thing.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Its Friday so I'm linking up with Bree over at Twinkle in the Eye for Flash Blog Friday...</div>
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<a href="http://www.twinkleintheeyeblog.com/"><img src=" http://i1059.photobucket.com/albums/t434/hbbcustom/twinkleintheye/breeflashbutton.jpg" /></a><br />
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...And Grace over at With Some Grace for Flash Yo Blog Friday!<br />
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<a href="http://www.withsomegrace.com/fybf-2/">
<img src="http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t405/digitalparentsaus/fybf.gif" width="155" /></a></center>
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Head on over to both and check out some awesome bloggers!</center>
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Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-75166613601076385822012-08-28T09:44:00.000+09:302012-10-03T12:14:33.735+09:30The Dreaded Toddler Years<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_4kG_6SFvCCMKtrCoVLmgpBzLFzDHJeypVdAYT5s6a3Vc4pV87PpVNVuZZy8i_clFdWC0Py6UdipIf1J06TTnmZ-tCv67rp4qhx6QbGjO4d6zOEie38v2IUeaQOukBqdSYCr2b7A_1iKD/s1600/A2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_4kG_6SFvCCMKtrCoVLmgpBzLFzDHJeypVdAYT5s6a3Vc4pV87PpVNVuZZy8i_clFdWC0Py6UdipIf1J06TTnmZ-tCv67rp4qhx6QbGjO4d6zOEie38v2IUeaQOukBqdSYCr2b7A_1iKD/s320/A2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My boy at a happier moment!</td></tr>
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Master A turns 2 next month. I'm having mixed emotions with that, torn between being proud of my big boy growing up, and sad that I'm losing my baby. Something that comes along with the toddler years?<br />
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The terrible 2s.<br />
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Unfortunately, we have already entered this phase, and I am already tearing my hair out over it! Master A started <a href="http://meandmymunchkin.blogspot.com.au/2012/06/help-my-childs-beating-me-up.html" target="_blank">hitting</a> a couple of months ago, and I was silly enough to think that he had grown out of it. Now that I'm older and wiser, I think he was just holding off to unleash it with the rest of the tantrum and sooking.<br />
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Ugh the sooking! You know the noise I mean. The real high pitched whine when you aren't doing what he actually <i>wants</i> you to be doing. Like pouring him breakfast instead of putting on his favorite TV show.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1VHvqQPCR3iDvN3GHd3v1tTGB3CHmYnSXpGe9ZNVWRv7KVeuVCtcjjagFQVPdEPKYE1SUb9xqfHaO-xQtHgoGEiSo087Mec4AFAJwY3DiL6C2J2bgzslZWh1aIqljtVtQe79PzKzneANi/s1600/A1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1VHvqQPCR3iDvN3GHd3v1tTGB3CHmYnSXpGe9ZNVWRv7KVeuVCtcjjagFQVPdEPKYE1SUb9xqfHaO-xQtHgoGEiSo087Mec4AFAJwY3DiL6C2J2bgzslZWh1aIqljtVtQe79PzKzneANi/s320/A1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mummy trying to calm the monster with some Hi5</td></tr>
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The tantrums come along when I stop him from doing something. <i>"No Kiddo, you CAN'T smack your toys on the wall"</i>. The tantrums seem so much more extreme now too! We have toys launched, stomping, limp bodies, screaming and tears, and lately Master A's started hitting himself in the head. All this because he's not allowed to pull the plates and bowls out of the cupboard.<br />
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Being that we have major renovations going on at home, he's been bored and put out of his comfort zone (as we all have) so the tantrums and whining have been much more frequent. Some days I swear all I hear is high pitched noises and toys being thrown on the floor!<br />
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Gone are the days when he used to listen and do what he was told. Taking him out in public is just not an option anymore. If I do take him out, he is strapped into his pram, and I use all manner of bribery to keep him quiet! I envy my friends with children the same age who are able to walk their toddler quietly into the shops and have them stand by their side the whole trip! It just seems so unfair!<br />
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<b>Do you have a child who went through the terrible 2s?</b><br />
<b>How did you keep your sanity?</b><br />
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It's Tuesday so I'm linking up with Jess at Diary of a SAHM for IBOT!</div>
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Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-804153633513538832012-08-21T07:22:00.000+09:302012-10-03T12:33:00.289+09:30Why do I Deserve Happiness?I have re-written this post 3 times now. I just can't seem to find the words to say what I need to. I have been doing a bit of soul searching in the last few months. You may have noticed a bit of a pattern in my posts.<br />
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I am so happy with where I actually am in life, and this is a first for me. Sure there are a few things I would like to change, but the changes are on the way. I just need to be patient (totally not my strong suit!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglISMwY7WhaEd3hjRqZL3Ab2hIO6ohIZc9Hf26l4s4ueTTSlzH6_gU9v-3ND21UdxxsA9J9Rn5MdZCjxSLOv0zPj6hvXJX84LapePNUNk8y1jHQxjnQCIBPkIMq4doMeQnUB3X8zk4dAZl/s1600/happiness1_id751507_jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglISMwY7WhaEd3hjRqZL3Ab2hIO6ohIZc9Hf26l4s4ueTTSlzH6_gU9v-3ND21UdxxsA9J9Rn5MdZCjxSLOv0zPj6hvXJX84LapePNUNk8y1jHQxjnQCIBPkIMq4doMeQnUB3X8zk4dAZl/s1600/happiness1_id751507_jpg.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mentalhelp.net/poc/view_doc.php?type=doc&id=36382&cn=5" target="_blank">{image source}</a></td></tr>
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I grew up with a low self esteem, I'm not really sure why. I have always thought that I am just not worth it and don't deserve happiness. I have never known what it is that I actually want and I thought I would never be happy until I got to where I wanted to be, so you can see my predicament!<br />
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It has taken me over 20 years to realise that I deserve to be happy. I am a good person. Sure, I still have those "I'm a bad Mum/friend/daughter/sister" moments, but they don't take over my life. I still get mother's guilt, but I don't let it make me think I am a bad Mum.<br />
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So why do I deserve happiness in my life?<br />
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I love my family and friends. I would do anything for them. I drop everything if someone's in trouble, or needs to chat. The same goes for my son. I clothe him, feed him, play with him, and I gave up work to stay at home with him when he was sick (this meant giving up finances, and the chance to get out of debt quicker to get my own place).<br />
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I am a good person in general. I will help strangers, I am never rude to people unless they are rude to me. I don't stick my nose into other people's business and I am all round just a friendly person. A bit shy, yes, but friendly.<br />
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I will work hard, especially when it's something that I love. My standards for myself are way too high, and I am working on bringing them down.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://howtofindhappiness.com/" target="_blank">{image source}</a></td></tr>
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I deserve happiness in my life. I am finally realising that, and making sure that I am putting the steps in place to be happy.<br />
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<b>Have you ever suffered from a low self esteem?</b><br />
<b>Why do you deserve to be happy?</b><br />
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It is Tuesday, which means I'm linking up Diary of a SAHM for IBOT!</div>
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<a href="http://www.diaryofasahm.net/" title="IBOT"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://www.diaryofasahm.net/images/ibot.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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Make sure you head on over and check out some totally awesome bloggers!</div>
Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-56438172966603582152012-08-16T07:00:00.000+09:302012-10-03T12:19:21.758+09:30Cutting the Emotional ClutterI have been spending the last couple of months clearing the physical clutter in my home. I started a clean out that you can read about <a href="http://meandmymunchkin.blogspot.com.au/2012/06/clean-out.html" target="_blank">here</a>. It has taken me a little longer than I had hoped, but slowly I am getting there. There is another kind of clutter that I hadn't really thought about until today, that is so much more important.<br />
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Emotional clutter.<br />
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I am carrying around grudges, hopes and wishes that will never come true, fears and regrets that I need to clear out of my life in order to live happily.<br />
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Here is how I am clearing the emotional clutter from my head.<br />
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<b>1. Make a list.</b><br />
Whether it's a to-do list, a to-call list, a to-buy list or a to-organise list. Get those things down on paper, and out of the never ending circle in your head.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBjDDrx8pmMtGELifxhnYuhqL582xM8Zig3qMY4pUO0FAXdq0o0E042sF1-bQU07IjH9GmPJ5tZ7b0ySCCEoDYptufMU2L2AcrnwVflNx0TzohhVs15A98UdlVLO7scoegHX9f5mRSDJR-/s1600/156500155770607027_VhCoyoTz_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBjDDrx8pmMtGELifxhnYuhqL582xM8Zig3qMY4pUO0FAXdq0o0E042sF1-bQU07IjH9GmPJ5tZ7b0ySCCEoDYptufMU2L2AcrnwVflNx0TzohhVs15A98UdlVLO7scoegHX9f5mRSDJR-/s1600/156500155770607027_VhCoyoTz_b.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/213569207300092286/" target="_blank">{image source}</a></td></tr>
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<b>2. Clear out the drama.</b><br />
If there is one thing I hate, it's drama. I know that I will always have some amount of drama in my life, and that's ok. I have, however worked hard to cut those people out of my life who just simply bring drama with them every day. If I can't cut them out (for instance my sister) I cut myself off from the drama. I refuse to converse about it and remove myself from the situation if I have to.<br />
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<b>3. Leave behind the past.</b><br />
There are people in my past that are best left there. I would love these people in my present and future, but for various reasons, I need to let go of them and leave them behind and move on. The same goes for situations that have happened. Leave them in the past. Don't keep re-living them.<br />
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<b>4. Finish what you've started, or let it go.</b><br />
I have some half finished projects throughout the house (and my life) that I am making plans to finish, or trying to let them go. The same goes for goals. They aren't all appropriate anymore, and I need to decide whether they are still goals of mine.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijVBz_c5uA51OPVPvukyXqIYDNQjMfNOVJ_adCcjteRCLXYq1sn2ctG6hjIA1cafp9R8oBMukCnP2rPlP-o_Tdd8Q717wWzpLT5bOBtAFokZ8M51zluoy65YiqhbFBXgS6MVOx0OgY7XM1/s1600/85286986664195762_WherjUSN_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijVBz_c5uA51OPVPvukyXqIYDNQjMfNOVJ_adCcjteRCLXYq1sn2ctG6hjIA1cafp9R8oBMukCnP2rPlP-o_Tdd8Q717wWzpLT5bOBtAFokZ8M51zluoy65YiqhbFBXgS6MVOx0OgY7XM1/s320/85286986664195762_WherjUSN_f.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/85286986664195762/" target="_blank">{image source}</a></td></tr>
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<b>5. Learn to let go of what you can't control.</b><br />
This is something that I am terrible at, but I have made massive progress with in the last year. There are so many situations that I just cannot control, such as having to communicate with Master A's dad, or living at home with my parents. If you can't control the situation, what is the point in worrying about it? <i>If you can't change the direction of the wind, adjust your sails</i>.<br />
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<b>6. Take control of the chaos.</b><br />
When your physical environment is in chaos, you're likely to be stressed and exhausted. Put on a load of washing, sit down and plan out your meals for the rest of the week, make a start on that pile of paperwork sitting on your desk. Give yourself room to breathe. Sit down with a pen and paper and have a think about what it is that you need to be better organised with. For me it's daily and weekly routines. Everything is still a bit up in the air and it's making me stressed. Take control of the chaos, and feel better.<br />
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<b>7. Eat healthy and exercise.</b><br />
How guilty do you feel after devouring your third cupcake? You don't want that guilt. Eat healthy (with treats of course) and exercise daily. I only walk, but find it's a great time to let my mind wander, and the fresh air clears it.<br />
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<b>8. Clear out inboxes, in trays and contacts lists</b><br />
Go through your email and clean it out. Go through your contacts list and delete old and unwanted phone numbers. A big one? Go through your Facebook friends list and clean that out. People you haven't seen since high school that you only friended to have a bit of a nosy, old boyfriends you never talk to, that friend of a friend of a friend that you met that one time out at dinner. What's the point in seeing their day to day lives when you don't even know them anymore?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzZZlqo8HQAfrL2bKfajgbuYlpBz86aeZhrgegcr9tFiVqPUUBLeAB5DdbLhF1D9O0ceHP_NO6NaCPmYV3KSkhwqubQlZn59GEL3_QHPDFm6NKEzcvOAzmNpMMtKSdRB8e722AukaEZkRw/s1600/160722280422550025_K09ENivz_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzZZlqo8HQAfrL2bKfajgbuYlpBz86aeZhrgegcr9tFiVqPUUBLeAB5DdbLhF1D9O0ceHP_NO6NaCPmYV3KSkhwqubQlZn59GEL3_QHPDFm6NKEzcvOAzmNpMMtKSdRB8e722AukaEZkRw/s320/160722280422550025_K09ENivz_f.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/160722280422550025/" target="_blank">{image source}</a></td></tr>
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<b>9. Dream big.</b><br />
Write down your hopes and dreams for the future. Make them attainable though. I certainly won't be putting down the hope that someone from my past will all of a sudden show up and want to be a part of my life again! I love doing this every now and then. Where would you like to go for a holiday? What sort of people do you want in your life? Do you like your career, or is it time for a change? From this, you can make goals. And that's where the fun begins!<br />
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<b>10. If you have more emotional clutter than you know how to deal with, see a counselor.</b><br />
Sometimes you just need to let it out. Counselors can be a great help, and they have been helping me get through my custody issues. Speak to your GP or ask around. Someone you know may know of a great counselor you can see.<br />
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So here I go, trying to eliminate the emotional clutter in my head.<br />
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<b>Do you struggle with emotional clutter at times?</b><br />
<b>How do you deal with it?</b><br />
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It's finally Friday so I am flogging my blog over at With Some Grace and Flashing it at Twinkle in the Eye! Get on over and check them out!</div>
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Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-50979700928716723962012-08-13T19:01:00.000+09:302012-08-13T19:02:14.000+09:30My Week in PicturesHere's a little look into my last week via Instagram. If you have Instagram make sure you follow me @meandmymunchkin!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLa7lOF5Em5oXVPnGqt4rYYUC1JT1hU98eE0HcEqdBXSzj-CJGhSia2v5crne8uWYHRDIXphSVya1O8le7UY0DOUgu0o0jhwOtGJPtrnrCAn1LW0ehuFLMosZbQfESuJOPve4gFJJixIV0/s1600/Pic+B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLa7lOF5Em5oXVPnGqt4rYYUC1JT1hU98eE0HcEqdBXSzj-CJGhSia2v5crne8uWYHRDIXphSVya1O8le7UY0DOUgu0o0jhwOtGJPtrnrCAn1LW0ehuFLMosZbQfESuJOPve4gFJJixIV0/s320/Pic+B.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This was taken first thing in the morning while Munchkin was watching Hi 5 and waiting for his Dad to pick him up for the day.</div>
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#photoadayaug Day 6: Writing. I Have been out of school for a few years now, and my head is not coping! I am struggling to understand things so writing plenty of notes!</div>
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We had a little time before going for dinner so a trip to the park was totally required!</div>
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Oh what a day this was! After a day of tantrums I was stuck waiting in the car for the monster to wake up!</div>
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And just to top off this great day I dropped my phone in Master A's bath. Luckily I had just started running it and grabbed it straight out. There wasn't much damage, aside from my sound turning on and off as it pleases!</div>
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#photoadayaug Day 7: 8 O'clockI was in bed fairly early this night!</div>
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I bought this toy storage for Munchkin on Thursday and spent the afternoon putting it together and sorting his toys into it!</div>
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#photoadayaug Day 8: Glasses. A scruffy looking me with my sunglasses on.</div>
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#photoadayaug Day 9: Messy. Finishing off Master A's room.</div>
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#photoadayaug Day 10: Ring. The first and only ring I have ever bought myself and I love it!</div>
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#photoadayaug Day 11: Purple. I spent ages looking for something purple before I came across this on my DVD shelf. I love this movie!</div>
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#photoadayaug Day 12: Spoon. This is Master A's cutlery. I picked up a pack of 6 sets of knives, forks and spoons for $2 from Ikea. Bargain!</div>
Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-14468006886497427922012-08-09T08:21:00.000+09:302012-08-09T08:21:32.936+09:30Cutting BackI posted last week about about struggling to find the time to get everything done. You can find that post <a href="http://meandmymunchkin.blogspot.com.au/2012/08/my-lack-of-time-management-skills.html" target="_blank">here</a>. I originally thought it was because of my lack of time management skills. I now believe that it is because I have just tried to take on too much.<br />
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Between an ultra-demanding toddler, my new Tafe course, the blog, keeping fit, housework and still fighting a custody battle, my life is extremely filled up. Then of course there are family and friends. I want to see them, they want to see me, and it eats into more time. I never regret the time I spend with them. I love them all, but it just leaves me with less of it.<br />
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I have also recently started dating again (can I get a woop woop!) so this also takes time. But it makes me happy so it is not something I am going to stop.<br />
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I tried to keep going about it all, but found the leech hanging off me whilst I am trying to make up my spreadsheets was just too distracting. I am exhausted by night time and forcing myself to either write posts for the blog or continue on with study. All of my study is external and done online, therefor I have to do it all at home!<br />
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After spending the last 2 days thinking about what's really important, here's what I know:<br />
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Spending time with my son comes first. I am trying to get out and take him to the park more and play with him at home. He is the most important thing and everything else needs to fit in around him.<br />
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Next comes my course. It is going to take me years to get through the 4 courses I need to be fully qualified. This course is to get myself into a career that I'll love and to set me and Munchkin up financially. After that comes looking after myself. Exercising, going for a massage, etc. And then friends and family (and dating). If I don't continue to look after those relationships, they will die eventually.<br />
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Unfortunately I've decided my blogging is going to have to take a bit more of a back seat for a little while.<br />
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<b>I will still be here!</b><br />
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I just won't be posting as often. Instead of 3-4 times a week, I will only be posting 1-2 times a week. Unfortunately as much as I love my blog, and my readers, I have to start looking after my stress levels and sanity. I do hope I still have some sanity left!<br />
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So please bear with me through these times. I am hoping that once I get into the swing of things and actually catch up on everything I am behind on (and repair some of the friendships that have been neglected in the last month or so) I will be back with full force.<br />
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This will be my last post for this week, so I will see you all next week! If you have Facebook make sure you like <a href="http://www.facebook.com/meandmymunchkin" target="_blank">Me and My Munchkin</a> via the buttons on the top right of the screen. I will be on there daily!Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-9613810076195620212012-08-07T08:26:00.000+09:302012-08-07T08:26:17.773+09:30Storing Birthday CardsLast week I shared a photo on Instagram and Facebook showing how I keep Master A's birthday cards together. It got a bit of feedback, so I thought I would share it on the blog and show you just how I store old cards. I was originally going to use only ribbon, though I thought that would make it hard for Master A to look through.<br />
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So far I have the cards from my baby shower, and Master A's first birthday. When he has his second birthday in September I will do those cards the same way. All you need is a hole punch, album rings (pack of 5 from Spotlight for roughly around $3), your cards, and I also included the invitation from the party.<br />
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Hole punch each card and thread the album rings through the holes. I put the invitation on the front. Close the album rings and voila! You have a little book of birthday cards that your child can flick through when they want to. Couldn't get much easier than that! I also added some ribbon to the rings to make them a little prettier (yes, pretty for a boy!)<br />
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I keep them in a storage box from Ikea, and will continue to add to it over the years as he has more birthdays.<br />
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So that was my super dooper easy way to store old birthday cards, and it is much better than having them floating around a drawer or box, I reckon!<br />
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<b>How do you store your children's birthday cards?</b><br />
<b>Do your children like to look through them?</b><br />
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Blogging this Tuesday and linking up with Diary of a SAHM</div>
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<br /></div>Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4357804796612079302.post-49881770502781623612012-08-06T07:55:00.000+09:302012-10-03T12:33:00.286+09:30My Week in PicturesI thought I would share my Instagram roll for the week just been. I know how interesting it can be to get a little looksi into people's lives, so have decided to provide it for you! If you are on Instagram you can follow me at meandmymunchkin.<br />
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I was pretty stoked to find out that I have lost enough weight to (just) fit into a pair of old jeans. What makes it even better is that this is the 2nd pair of old jeans I have managed to fit back into within a week...</div>
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...so I celebrated with a chocolate donut and a chocolate milk once the Munchkin was down for a nap!</div>
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On Tuesday Master A got quite sick. You know he's really sick when he just lays there and watches TV! Thankfully he's much better now.</div>
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On Wednesday I finally got my delivery of textbooks for my Tafe course. I am still trying to catch up on the work that I fell behind on waiting for them.</div>
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#photoadayaug Day 1: Outside. Master A was riding his bike around the front yard while I checked out the tradies next door, pretending to be reading at the same time!</div>
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#photoadayaug Day 2: One. These are the birthday cards from Master A's first birthday.</div>
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I went on a bit of a shopping spree for new clothes on Saturday, so for the few days before I cleaned out my drawers and wardrobe. This ended up being about double this size by the time I finished! Now I have all nice new clothes!</div>
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I decided to pick Master A up from daycare a little early on Friday, and go to the park on the way home. He had so much fun, I think I may need to do this a little more regularly!</div>
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When we got home he was allowed to put on Toy Story. Very excited little man!</div>
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#photoadayaug Day 3: Coin.</div>
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#photoadayaug Day 4: Somewhere I sat. This is the couch I park my butt on to catch up on True Blood!</div>
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#photoadayaug Day 5: Logo. I had not had Vanilla Coke in so long! It tasted so good!</div>Chrissie Me and My Munchkinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01187005769102456988noreply@blogger.com8