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At Mom-Stuff.com we love Valentines Day. We have some great girlfriend valentines gifts in our mom’s craft section. We also have several classmate valentines pages in our kids craft section. Have some fun family time making valentines with your kids. Come and visit and get inspirited.

Make Your Own Valentines

Make your own Valentine Animals for classmate..

Valentine Flower Ball
Valentine Flower Ball .a perfect gift for girlfriends and mothers. .

Valentine Candy Ball
This Valentine is as pretty as it is sweet. This project is fun for kids but also pretty enough to be for Mother’s Day, a friend’s birthday or Valentine’s Day gift. . . .

Love Bug Sucker
These Valentine Suckers are so pretty you can put them into a flower vase for a decoration.

Valentine Recipes
Valentine Recipes-Sweets for your sweeties on Valentine’s Day. . .

Valentines Scrapbooking
Valentine Scrapbooking Page layout, You Warm My Heart . .

Thanks for being a part of the mom-stuff community. We believe in Moms helping Moms and we are so glad you are a part of our circle. We want to hear from you. What can we do to help enrich your life? What can you offer to other Moms? If you have any ideas that you would like to share for the New Year please email them to me. dianne@mom-stuff.com

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My first tattoo was when I was 18. My crazy roommate and I decided on a whim one night that we wanted to go get tattoos. We wanted matching tattoos. I knew I wanted a frog because I had always collected frogs but, I wanted it to be different. I wanted some sort of tribal frog. The old biker dude in the little tattoo shop drew one up and we said yes and I’m pretty sure it was my insane roommate that decided we should get them on the tops of our feet. I chomped down on a zillion peppermints and endured what I was sure were the last five minutes of my life. It hurt so freaking bad but, I was laughing the whole time. And even though I look at that little froggy dude on my foot sometimes and think that the guy didn’t know what he was doing…I love it. I love my little frog and the reminder of that crazy night with such a fun roommate and friend. It was my first truly “crazy” thing I did and I love it.

My next tattoo was with another great friend. She heard about the foot tattoos and was at our apartment not too long after and was talking about how much she wanted one. I convinced her and we were off. She didn’t want to do it alone so she offered to pay for me to get another one. Hey, I don’t turn down free stuff! I got my first butterfly. This very dainty and beautiful little butterfly I carefully selected and had them put on my upper back near my shoulder. Why a butterfly? Because I wanted it to mean something. I wanted it to remind me of something. About six months before that I had lost a dear friend to a tragic murder/suicide. She was unbelievable and her most favorite thing in the world was butterflies. I got that butterfly to remember her. It’s still my favorite tattoo.

The next was also a butterfly. And, I got it in the quintessential spot that a young girl gets a tattoo. Yep, middle of my lower back. Honestly, I’ve never been stoked about this one. The person doing it didn’t do a great job. But, once again I had it paid for by the friend that was with me so, beggars can’t be choosers right? Years later I had more added to it and had some of the tribal stuff coming off it made into a bigger butterfly surrounding it. Still not great but, better.

I moved to Austin, Texas in my early 20s and that’s where the other three came from. I have a butterfly on my stomach, near my hip bone. After I had my first born I went in for my checkup and the doctor was beside himself with what a good job he did with my incision. “I even missed your butterfly!” he exclaimed. Thanks doc! Still appreciative for that one! The butterfly on my stomach is the only one I ever paid for myself.

I have a really awesome butterfly on my ankle. It’s bigger than the others and was designed just for me. I love the way the colors fade into each other. Honestly, it would look much better if I had left it alone when it was healing. If anyone reading this is thinking about getting a tattoo, I plead with you to please not scratch or pick the scabs! It will itch like crazy but, don’t mess with it! The colors just aren’t as vibrant.

My other favorite is the one on the inner wrist of my left arm. It’s the chinese symbol for butterfly. I’ve always planned on getting another symbol on the other wrist but, haven’t had the chance to get back in that chair in years. I’d love to do that and I’d love to add on to the butterfly that’s on my upper back. I’ve also always wanted one that looks like a bracelet. Alyssa Milano has one and I adore it.

I really love all my tattoos. I like the way they look (most of them) but, more than anything I like the memories that go with them. I like that they are there forever because I don’t ever want to forget why I got them or how I got them or anything.

So, that’s it. I wish I had some pics of them but, I’m too lazy to take some now and it’s been so long ago since I got them I don’t think I even had a digital camera back then.

Will I let my kids get tattoos? If they want them then I can’t foresee having a problem with it. What age I let them get one will depend on them.

Thamks again to Robin. Visit her often and tell her thanks for sharing her bolg.

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The Mom-Stuff  blog of the week is Lolidots. If you have not visited Robin’s site yet you are missing out on one of our favorite mom blogger. Robin is an active blogger participating in the blogging communities. Check out some of the action she is involved in: 

Not Me Monday

This blog carnival was started by MckMama. Check out her blog to see what everyone else has not been up to.

Getting to Know You…

 Keely over at MannLand5 has a Sunday Blog Hop called “Getting To Know You” and I’m finally joining in! Head over to her blog and play along! You can see one of Robins posts here

5 Question Friday 1-15-2010

If you want to participate in 5 Question Friday, head over to My Little Life and link up with Mama M.!

 Todays post we want to share is all about reality shows.

Would you/could you? Ever Ever?

could you be on a reality show?

I will say that at a certain point in my early twenties, before children and my lovely hubby, before responsibilities, before diaper changes and car seats, before hairbows and superheroes, before minivans and baby bottles, before caring about anything other than myself…

I probably would have l-o-v-e-d to be on The Real World. Or The Hills. I woulda torn those shows up, sister! I mean, the drama I could have caused would put Spencer Pratt to shame!

Nowadays, I am quite thankful I don’t have documentation (other than a few pics I hold on to for posterity sake) of my wild days. I’m glad I won’t ever have to explain why mommy was on mtv and “what’s that big bottle in your hand with a picture of a pirate on it?”. No. Denial of party days is much easier when it’s not in syndication.

I do not think that there was ever a point where I would have participated in a show like The Bachelor. I do so love to watch those people make fools of themselves but, call me old fashioned, what ever happened to meeting someone while getting drunk in a bar? I’m just sayin’.

I also know I could never do a “family” reality show, a la Jon and Kate. First, I’m much to sane and lame for a good reality show. It would definitely get boring to see me on the computer, hubs on the couch and TRex and Snappy watching Care Bears for the thirtieth time in one day.

So, I suppose my reality show possible days are behind me.

You’ll never see me on Hoarders. My house is pretty darn clean.

You’ll never see me on Wife Swap. I’d never trade my amazing hubby for even one day!

You’ll never see me on SuperNanny, no matter how much I may say I need it.

I’d never go on a game show. I don’t do well under pressure.

I’m too old for American Idol. Um, yeah, I’m sticking with that for the reason, not that my audition would be a clip on the show of rejects.

The only reality show I can think of that I would still love to be on, just because it would mean hanging out with the family, is Run’s House. Because Rev Run and his fam are absofreakin’ hilarious! Oooh, or an innocent bystander on Cheaters! Good gosh that show is beyond a trainwreck!

So, what about you? Would you have ever at any point in your life (or even now) gone on a reality show?

post by Robin Haws at Lolidots

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Meet Robin

Mom-Stuff Blog Tour is visiting Robin this week. “Lolidotsbegan as a boutique for unique handmade children’s accessories, clothing and gifts. It started with Kutie Klips hair bows and grew from there. I love creating and crafting.

The Lolidots Blog was an unexpected extension of the Boutique that has been a wonderful experience for me. I love doing the product reviews and hosting the fun giveaways for all of my readers. More than that, I’m starting to be more comfortable with the main page of the blog and really enjoy the fun I have with it. The creative outlet is nice to have but, what’s been the most amazing part is the friendships I’ve made through it and because of it.

I’m a Texan through and through, wear my heart on my sleeve, wonderfully flawed Mommy of two, married to my best friend, child of divorce, former “party girl”, good listener, super sarcastic, soul searching, chili-cheese fries loving, non-baking, rock and rolling, unconventional parent…in a constant state of organized chaos.

I like to think of myself as an open book. If you’ve got a question about anything from hair bows to something you’ve seen or would like to see on the blog, please contact me! ” robin@lolidots.com

Hello, My name is Robin

and I’m a Lost-ie.

Now, I’m not really dissecting each and every episode, reference and nuance. However, I’m fairly certain that I’m far too invested in this show. I remember this feeling of impending doom when my beloved Sopranos was coming to an end and I’m torn as to whether or not to look forward to the coming months of nervous and excited television watching.

I’m such a dork.

Daddy- I’m sorry for the jokes. Well, not all the jokes. It’s still funny to make fun of Trekkies. But, now I can commiserate.

And, many thanks to my bloggy friend Samantha for showing me the world ofLostpedia so that I may further embark on the quest of being dominated by my computer.

After a thread in Blog Frog, I have been pleasantly joined in my Lostiness by many awesome chicks and great bloggers.

So, without a doubt, I’ll be devoting time to Lost every week. I thought we could all join in, have some fun with new stuff, old stuff and maybe even some theories!

This is my first wholehearted effort at a meme of sorts. Because it seems that my calling in life is to start projects and not finish them, I’m hoping that avid participation will help prod me along. Besides, it’s only for a tv season, right?

I thought I’d start with some questions. I’ll answer them. If you want to answer in the comments, that’s cool. If you want to participate on your blog then, by all means, link up! (Ugh, this is a little like standing here naked. Dammit, if I have to start another blog just to have one link then I will!)

Oh, one more thing, if you actually enjoy this, feel free to let me know what questions I should do!

So, here’s a few I’ve been thinking of…

1. If you were on the island, which group would you be in? Survivors, Others, Dharma
2. If you were stranded on an island, which character would you want to be stranded with?
3. Which backstory was your favorite?
4. Are there any mysteries you really hope will be solved in this last season?

1. If you were on the island, which group would you be in? Survivors, Others, Dharma

Others. Definitely.

But, I’m picky.

I’d want to be a part of The Others before the plane crash. Not in the 70s when they are traipsing through the forest wearing army clothes. Not when they are plotting against The Survivors. The seemingly nice little community they have before the crash. I’m so intrigued by self-sufficient communities like that and really love those nice, neat little houses. I don’t know what it is but, I’m drawn to that.

Not so big on the traipsing through the jungle or beach living.

2. If you were stranded on an island, which character would you want to be stranded with?

Sawyer.

Mmmmmmmm.

Ok, really though, I’d have to say Charlie. For one, love the accent. He’s sweet and a good conversationalist. He’d have some great stories to tell and could keep me entertained with his guitar. I wouldn’t get sick of looking at him, that’s for sure!

Though, now I’m turning more practical and thinking maybe Jack would be a better choice.

3. Which backstory was your favorite?

Sawyer, Miles, Daniel.

I guess my fave though, because so much was revealed, was Daniel Faraday.

4. Are there any mysteries you really hope will be solved in this last season?

Yes!
Why didn’t Aaron have to go back?
Why were Walt and Michael able to leave?
If the island is so powerful then why didn’t Jack’s dad come back to life when 815 crashed?
And, what’s the deal with Jack’s dad? How is he so important that Locke talked to him before he turned the wheel?
What was the deal with the horse?
Why did Jacob give Hurley that guitar case, what’s in it and why did he bring it?
What’s the deal with the statue? Where did it come from and why is it broken now?

I’m sure I have more questions and will absolutely have even more when the new season starts. For now, I’d love theories on any of my questions! I’m going to do another post of theories in a couple of days.

Alrighty. Now it’s time to see how many Lost-ies want to join in!

Destiny calls!

Posted by Robin Haws

I hope you are having as much fun following Mom-Stuff Blog Tour as we are. This week we will be visiting Robin at lolidots. and we know you will enjoy her. She is entertaining and will makes you laugh. Make sure you follow the mom-Stuff Blog Tour to get to know her.

Make your own Valentines. The valentine patterns for your kids classmates you have been waiting for are finally finished. They are definitely worth the wait. They are easy, really cute and fun to make! Make these fun Valentines with your kids and they will be the talk of the school. Go to Mom-stuff and get your patterns and instructions.
See you tomorrow

Dianne@mom-Stuff.com

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Classmate Valentines

Crafty Moms, School Teachers, Anyone who wants to make your own Valentine

Mom-Stuff has a NEW selection of original fun and easy Valentines!!!

Let your child choose the valentine he/she wants to make and give to their classmates at school. Keep in mind your child’s skill level. The Bee, Lady Bug and Butterfly are the easiest. While the Monkey and Lion are more difficult. They have small pieces to cut and glue. The patterns are made for 8 x 10 card stock sheets of paper. If you use scrapbook paper you will need to cut it to size.

After choosing the Valentine your child wants to make click on the link for instructions. Here you will find your materials list and the links for the patterns. Don’t try to make all of the animals unless you have a lot of time. If you keep it to one or two making these will be fun, fast and easy.

Printing instruction: On the pattern page double click on printer friendly button.  When the pattern pulls up left click the mouse and right click on print picture.

I use boxes of candy hearts but you can use other candy. These Valentines look cute without the candy if you do not want to give candy to the kids.

Go to Make You Own Valentines at www.mom-stuff.com for patterns and instructions.

Mom-Stuff  your mom’s resource site, has lots of Valentine Crafts.  Visit and find something fun to make and give this Valentine’s Day

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We are having lots of fun on our Blog Tour. This week we want to introduce you to Katherine at Solo Dot Mom. She has a different set of challenges. She is a single mom with a great sense of honor. I have followed her for some time now and I love to see how she meets her challenges. She juggles her life with grace and laughter. Here is her story in her own words as posted on her site.

That day, 6 years ago, I left the bondage of which I found myself a victim. I left the man whose love had turned into violent jealousy and possessiveness as I became his obsession. That day I became a single mom; even before the papers were signed for the final big D, I stepped out and took that leap… into singlemomhood. Ready or not, there I was.

Taking one step at a time during my journey that day I proceeded toward the magistrate to get my protective order. Going through the motions, but doing what I knew I finally had to do. Those steps turned into the journey that with each passing step, each passing day, led to my freedom. A freedom I know today, that makes me thank Jesus every time I remember what He released me from, and the peace He gave me as I struggled with the decision to leave a bad relationship, a bad marriage.

I consider myself to be a product of all my trials and tribulations as well as my successes. Stronger for the battles I have faced; patient for the times I waited on the Lord and endured; and wiser for the decisions I made, because some were not so wise. There were many times when life lessons came along that path, some I learned quickly, and others I am still learning over and over again, trying to understand. Realizing a simple life is a good life as we all should get back to basics and live within our means. Sacrificing to make that a reality, I sought to be debt free (other than a mortgage) and count that another success that wasn’t easy to achieve but doable with some determination and discipline.

My children are indeed my joy, my treasures, my reason I will never regret marrying their father. They do give me purpose and I want them to be faithful, driven, inspired individuals that remember their heritage but strive to change the world in their future.

Each passing day I try to take time to stop, look, and listen. To stop and realize the moment passing and the joy that can be found in it. To look and see how much my children especially are changing right in front of my eyes; and to listen to the laughter, the voices, the heartbeat of those around me…. so I don’t miss it. Holding them all in my heart so that I may someday pull those memories back out…caressing them as I relive them when I am older and my children are off in their newly created worlds, living life, and changing the world.

As a single mom… looking back from where I was… to where I am today… I am grateful for the blessings and grateful for the peace. Jesus helped me take those necessary steps that day, and continued to walk with me as I took one step at a time marking my new life… as a single mom. And this single mom is happy, enjoying life while raising two children, working a full-time job for a non-profit organization, dating again, and maintaining a house – making it a home. Sometimes it takes sacrifice… but it’s so worth it

Visit Katherine at Solo Dot Mom and leave her your comments. Let her know how much you appreciate her sharing her blog with you.

We are busy putting up ideas to make your Valentine Day easier and more fun. Visit us at Mom-Stuff.com

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On the Mom-Stuff Blog Tour our blog of the week is Ashley’s Craft Room. Ashley’s blog gives pics and instructions for some really fun kids crafts to do with your kids.  Her visitors are moms who like to do crafts with their kids and need some ideas.need  This post is one I really loved, and thought this blog would help make your Valentines Day lots of fun.  Ashley’s Craft Roon can be found at:

http://ashleys-craftroom.blogspot.com

Valentine Animal Hearts

Materials:
Card stock-different colors- I used four different colors.
Glue
Colored pens or crayons.
Paper to glue animals onto to make a picture or a cardInstructions:
Cut hearts from several colors of card stock.
I cut hearts ranging in size from 1\4 to 3 inches.
I used the Cricut, Plantin SchoolBook Cartridge.
Let the kids crate animals. Have a sheet of paper folded in half so children can make a Valentine for someone they want to give it to.
Glue on small goggle eyes.

Make your own Valentines.
Follow the same steps.
I bought some cards and envelopes from the local craft store. I bought some in pink and white.I also used the scrapes from the hearts to trim the cards (and to boarded the Valentine scrapbook pages.)
I used some other cut outs from my Cricut Cartridge.
I love to shade some of my cutouts for affect. The most common way to shade is to use chalks, but I like to use water color pencils. I color around the edge of the paper about 1/16 wide. I then take a wet Q-tip and blend the color. This is fast, easy, and controllable. I use extra fine sharpie markers to add accents and text.

Thanks Ashley, for sharing your talents with other moms. We love learning from each other.

Follow along with us on our Mom-Stuff Blog Tour. You will find great information and make some new friends. Make sure to leave comments. Remember mom-Stuff will be giving away gifts to our followers that make the most comments. So welcome to the party. Let the moms know what you think by commenting and tweeting about their blog.

See you tomorrow, dianne@mom-stuff

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Do you love to do kids crafts with your children?  We do. This year for Valentines we have given you a really cute kids craft project for valentines made with suckers. The kids will love to make these and to give them to their friends. Visit www.mom-stuff.com at click on the Valentine Kids Craft section for materials and instructions. We have found two other cute kid crafts that complement these suckers. On www.familyfun.com they have a butterfly valentine made with a piece of gum. Check out the heart suckers made from candy canes at www.skiptomylou.org  These are some really fun kids crafts to do with your children for Valentines day. Enjoy crafting with your kids. I love to help develop their creativity.