6 and STILL Sane

Veggie Waffles recipe

2011-10-19T14:44:00.000-07:00

Here is the Veggie Waffle Recipe to go with the fun Bell Pepper egg flowers I posted on my facebook page.

Veggie Waffles
3 c Flour
4 Tbsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
4 eggs
3 c. milk (more for right consistency)
1/2 c oil
1 tsp. garlic salt
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. chili powder
mix all this together then stir in:
1/2 c. chopped bell peppers (green, yellow or red)
1/4 c. chopped onions
1/2 lb ground sausage (optional) *sprinkle in the batter once you have poured it onto the waffle maker*

Now cook as waffles.

Serve with sour cream and salsa.

YUM!!
I hope you enjoy. Let me know if you try it k?
Doesn't that all sound so yummy... I want to try this with the bell pepper egg flowers. What a good fun breakfast!

Still Sane,
Mama V

National Sewing Month Sew-Along

2011-09-18T16:15:00.000-07:00

Well if you follow my facebook page you know that this month is National Sewing month. And if you know me at all.... you know I sew. LOL! (if you know me well, that is an understatement!)

So for National Sewing month I thought it would be fun to have a sew-along. What is a se- along? Where lots of people make the same thing at the same time. This way they can talk about it and share progress, and pictures. It is fun. I had a bunch of people say they wanted to do it, and I hope they did... but they didn't follow through and post pictures for me. A few have... and I love seeing them.

So I thought I would share my pictures of the T-shirt Hat and the Picnic Blanket Tote I sewed up this month.

T-shirt hat. I made it using this tutorial: T-shirt Hat

My little D-doo likes it. She wears it all the time. I think I will make more of these. They were easy to make and they were fun.

Then there is the Picnic Blanket Tote. I made it using this tutorial: Picnic Blanket Tote

Here it is all unfolded....

Then all tucked up in the tote.... front

Then the back of the tote

This is super cute... it was easy to sew up too. I made it up in a few hours. This is a small blanket... really only big enough for one or two kiddos. But it will be a perfect Christmas present for my little one. She loves to have 'picnic lunches' in the living room while the big kids are at school, so this will be perfect for that!

I hope you have some fun sewing up this month!! PLEASE do share what you sew I love to see, and get new ideas.

Happy National Sewing month from this mama to you!

Still Sane,
Mama V

HUGE Wall Calendar tutorial

2011-08-31T16:37:00.000-07:00

So I decided we need a calendar in our house!! Anice big one that everyone can write on so we know where everyone is and what they have going on. I saw this idea somewhere and I am sure I made it bigger than the original one. But it is perfect. I decided to show you how I did it.

This is what you will need:

dry erase vinyl (I found mine on ebay)
painters tape (I used 1 1/2 inch)
a way to cut the vinyl (I used my cutting mat, ruler and rotary cutter)
a tape measure
cricuit
vinyl for year and days
vinyl to decorate (optional)
a day! really it took me about 6 hrs to do it all

First off you cut your vinyl. I did mine 8X8. I said I wanted it BIG! You could do this any size.

So now you need to do is make a straight line with your painters tape. I used the measuring tape to measure down from the ceiling. Then I put the first square on. After that you use the tape to line up the space for the next square.

You continue doing this until you get all 35 squares on.

The rectangle at the top is for the month. it was 5X18

*note... I moved the month rectangle up after the first picture. I decided I needed to leave more space for the days. So it was 3 inches from the top of the calendar squares.*

I used my cricut to cut out the days of the week and the year on regular vinyl. I used a 12X24 mat for this. You could use any color for this, but I picked black so I can add decoration for all the holidays.
I added the house the skulls and the spider so I wasn't wasting my vinyl.
Side note... I used my gypsy. I love that thing!! I feel like I waste less using it since I have control over where everything cuts and I can see it all before cutting.

I had my baby (I know she is 4 but she is STILL my baby) stand by it so you could see how big it really is. Isn't it AWESOME?!?!?!

Here is the year and the cute font I used for the days. I choose one that was kinda cuties and funky so that it didn't matter if I got them on perfectly straight! I don't do perfect. LOL!

I added a nice fall tree, I will use this till I take it down for Christmas.

Here it is all done. I wrote the month and the days with a dry erase marker. And we are good to go. I am going to go in search of a cute wall basket tonight to hang by the side. I want to be able to keep the markers close so they are easy to access.

I am super excited about this and I can't wait to see it fill up. I think this will really help organize things in our house!

Happy birthday to me! *since I spent my whole birthday making this.

Still Sane,

Mama V

Homemade Hamburger rolls

2011-08-21T16:31:00.001-07:00

I posted on my Nifty Nappy facebook page that we had made some Hamburger rolls. I have had multiple requests for the recipe. So here it is. The recipe for the hamburger rolls I grew up with.

Hamburger Rolls

3 1/2 c. warm water

3/4 c. sugar or 1/2 c. honey

1 c. oil

6 Tbsp. yeast

Rest 15 min.

Add: 1 Tbsp. salt

10 1/2 c. flour (might need more)

3 eggs

Roll out and cut with a large buiscut cutter or a large cup, if you want large rolls then roll out to 1 inch... roll thinner for a thinner roll.

Raise covered, on greased pan 10 min.

Bake at 425 degrees for 15 min.

This makes a few dozen. So be aware. They freeze well, and are great for hamburgers, sloppy joes, sandwiches, really anything you might need a roll for.

Enjoy... and PLEASE let me know if you make these and like them!

Still Sane,

Mama V

CSN winner FINALLY posted

2011-04-07T07:49:00.000-07:00

I am so sorry that it has taken me so long to post my winner. BUT I talked with the company and they were GREAT about extending the date of the winner code.

So... to restate. winner gets a $20 gift certificate to use at the CSN store!

the winner is:

Number 2 and #2 is:

Rachael said...

I am a subscriber via email

Congrats to Rachael!!!!

Thanks for entering. Now for a hiatus. I need to finish up all the diapers ... then I will back... BIGGER and BETTER than ever! :)

Still Sane,

Mama V

CNS stores $20 gift certificate giveaway

2011-02-27T20:54:00.000-08:00

We have a new addition to our yard and the kids are loving it!

So you wanna know what I picked from the Swing Sets site of the CNS store?

I picked.... drum roll.....................

I picked a see-saw!!

Looks like fun huh?

K, for my review.

The people at CNS where great to work with. Everything went very smoothly and the shipping was very prompt.

On saturday we opened the box and got started. All the pieces where there and in good shape.

We did run into one little hitch. They said there was one part... that just wasn't there... at least not in the way the instructions said.

explanation:
it called for a 1/2 inch washer, there were TWO other odd washer thingys that we realized after we were supposed to use. BUT In looking for the 1/2 inch washer we took apart a few things and reput them together so it did take a bit longer than expected. Hubby was pretty frustrated with that page of the instructions.

In the end though it went together well and the kids have loved playing on it already!

Did I mention it was windy and pretty chilly? What a trooper my hubby is!

Even my big girls that are 11 and 12 have see-sawed up and down on it. I can foresee years of fun play on it!

So??? CNS is graciously giving one of my readers a $20 Gift certificate to be used at any of their stores.

****This is only open for US and Canada residents though as they only ship to these locations.*****

To earn entries?

Easy peasy... and not too many either!

1 Entry follow my blog

1 Entry subscribe via email for my blog post.

1 Entry tell me what item or items you would love to have off their Swing Sets page

Extra entry.... if you commented on my initial post about this giveaway with a guess you may claim 1 Extra entry! No one guessed what I choose so you all get an extra entry for participating! :) --I will check this so please be honest!

***Remember to leave a separate comment for each additional entry and include your email address in your comments!***
YOU MUST DO THIS TO WIN!!
See my giveaway instructions here for more information.

They sent me a list of terms and conditions that apply to their gift certificate code.

Their Terms and Conditions:

1. Code expires after first use.

2. Entire promotional amount must be used on first purchase.

3. If the total cost of basket exceeds the amount of money from the promotional code, you are responsible for the difference

4. Promotional code will be applied to all items in your basket

5. Expires March 31, 2011

6. This promotional code cannot be combined with any other promotional code, CSNRewards Dollars, or price match request.

7. This promotional code cannot be used to purchase gift certificates on our sites

Ends 3/6/11

Thanks for entering this giveaway.

Good luck!

Guess what?

2011-02-25T14:24:00.000-08:00

IT CAME!!!

UPS pulled up to my house yesterday and...

My item I picked from CNS Stores is here! :)

Also I was so happy with my item I ordered 2 more items from them... I will tell you what they are. I got a picnic table and a bench thingy! Really excited to make my yard fun for the kids and a place they want to be!

So... did you get a chance to guess what I got?

HINT: no one has got it right yet.

Go here and take a GUESS for extra entries!

I am excited! :) Watch for the review/giveaway here in a week or two... we have to get it put up! *hehehe

A new giveaway for you! CSN stores

2011-02-17T10:08:00.000-08:00

Guess what? I am excited to let you know that CSN stores contacted me about doing a review/giveaway for you guys! Whoo hoo!!!

So? I have looked over their site and I have picked what I am going to review.

BUT I am NOT telling. *hehehe*

You guys get to guess! If you guess now on this post you get an extra entry into the giveaway!

You can guess 3 times. If you guess right you get 3 extra entires in the giveaway! *there can be more than one person with the right guess.

I will give you a hint: it is found on their Swing Sets page. *look though all the section though!

Have fun, and I will keep you updated about the giveaway and when it will be happening.

Still Sane,

Vilate

Chinese Recipes

2011-02-07T18:27:00.000-08:00

I promised a post with recipes from our Chinese New Year dinner! :)
Here it is:

Panda Express Orange Chicken
(found on http://www.cdkitchen.com)
Serves 6 Ready in <30>

Ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken pieces

1 egg 1 1/2 tsp. salt

White pepper Oil (for frying, we use Canola)

1/2 c. cornstarch

PLUS

1 Tbsp. cornstarch

1/4 c. flour

1 Tbsp. minced ginger root

1 tsp minced garlic

1 dash crushed hot red chilies

1/4 c chopped green onions

1 Tbsp. rice wine

1/4 c. water

1 tsp. sesame oil

*** Orange Chicken Sauce ***

1 1/2 Tbsp. soy sauce

1 1/2 Tbsp. water

5 Tbsp. sugar

5 Tbsp. white vinegar

Directions: Cut chicken pieces into 2-inch squares and place in large bowl. Stir in egg, salt, pepper and 1 Tbsp. oil and mix well. Stir cornstarch and flour together. Add chicken pieces, stirring to coat. HEat oil for deep-frying in wok or deep-fryer to 375 degrees. Add chicken pieces, small batches at a time, and fry 3 to 4 min. or until golden and crisp. (do not overcook or chicken will be tough.) Remove chicken from oil with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Set aside. Clean wok and heat 15 secondes over high heat. Add 1 Tbsp. oil. Add ginger and garlic and stir-fry until fragrant. Add and stir-fry crushed chilies and green onions. Add rice wine and stir 3 seconds. Add Orange Sauce and bring to boil. Add cooked chicken, stirring until well mixed. Stir water into remaning 1 Tbsp. cornstarch until smooth. add to chicken and heat until sauce is thickened. Stir in 1 Tbsp. oil and sesame oil. Serve at once. You may want to add grated zest of 1 orange to the sauce for flavor.

Looks yum huh? Well it IS!!

Sweet and Sour Chicken and or Pork:

Serves 8 Ready in 1 hr.

Sauce: (make while frying the meat)

1 c. bias sliced carrots

1 sm. onion chopped

1 c. sliced celery

2 1/2 c. water

3/4 c. cider vinegar

3/4 c. ketchup

1 tsp. lemon juice

1/2 tsp. salt

2 Tbsp. soy sauce

2 c. brown sugar

1 can pineapple chunks with juice

Simmer carrots. onion, celery, and water until veggies are tender. Add remaning ingredients.

Cook a few minutes. Thicken with 2 Tbsp. cornstarch in 1/4 c. water.

Breaded Chicken and or Pork:

3 lbs. cubed pork chops or boneless skinless chicken

1/2 c. flour

1/2 c. cornstarch

1 egg

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. baking powder

1/2 to 3/4 c. drippings from the meat + water

Cook your meat in a couple Tbsp. of soy sauce (like 4 shakes -LOL!) for seasoning. Along with some garlic salt and a pinch of oregano.

Mix all ingredients except the meat, use enough water (or dripping from frying meat) to make the batter thinner. Add meat stir until coated. Deep fry in small batches for 7 min.

Serve with Sweet and Sour Sauce over rice.

Well worth the time spent!

Egg Drop Soup

Serves 8 Ready in <10>

Ingredients:

4 c. chicken broth

1 c. corn (or to taste)

2 eggs (fork whisked in a bowl)

2 tsp. Sesame oil (or to taste)

Directions:

Bring the chicken broth and the corn to a boil. Using the fork dribble the eggs into the boiling broth, making sure to not go so fast that the broth stops boiling. Then stir for 2 min. Remove from heat and add the sesame oil. Serve while warm.

There you have our recipes!

We also ate some egg rolls, wontons, and Asian salad too... contributed by our friends. FUN for ALL!

Enjoy! I would love to hear if you make this and enjoy it k?

Still Sane,

MamaV

Valentine ideas!

2011-01-27T18:42:00.000-08:00

So it is almost Valentine's Day!

Do you celebrate it?

Here are some fun ideas to do with your own kids at home... or to do in school at a party or something! If you make these and you blog about it I would love to see! :)

Heart Numbers:
Cut several large hearts. Cut the hearts in half (from the middle of the humps to the point) Then put a number on one half and a corresponding number of dots (or stickers) on the other. Have your children try to match the heart halves.

What's On the Heart:
Cut one heart for every child in your class. Cut different interesting magazine pictures out and put them on a heart. Have your children pull hearts out of a bag and tell you what is on it (if they are older children have them pull the heart out and tell you what it is used for, or something that rhymes with the object, etc)

Heart Rubbings:
Before the children arrive use a glue gun to trace hearts of different sizes onto a piece of poster board. Have your children place a piece of thin paper over the hearts and rub it with a crayon. They will be amazed when hearts appear on their paper.
Cut out hearts from sandpaper and tape to a pice of poster board. Have your children place a piece of thin paper over the board and rub with a crayon. They will trace a beautiful bumpy valentines day heart.

Pocket of Kisses:
Ask parents to bring an item of clothing that their children have outgrown and has a pocket (jeans, flannel shirt, dress, etc.)-or you can find a bunch or make them out of foam- Cut the full pocket around the seam. cut the remaining in strips or squares for future art projects. Set out a variety of beads, lace, sequins, silk flowers, etc. Encourage children to decorate their pocket the way they desire. Help children attach a ribbon or lace to the two top corners of their pocket. I suggest fabric glue, so it will be stationery. Set a bowl of hershey kisses out and have children fill the pockets. Provide tissue paper, ribbons and bows and assist children in wrapping their gifts for their mother. Give the child a choice if they want to attach a homemade card

Guess how much I love you card:
Cut out two hearts for each child. Attach the first heart to the inside of a card (a piece of poster board folded in half) On the front of the first one, write "Guess how much I love you?". On the second heart write "This much!". Measure the distance between the fingertips of one hand to the fingertips of the other with arms stretched out for each child and cut out this distance from 3 inch wide butcher paper. Help your children fold the paper accordian style. Attach a heart to each end of the butcher paper. Add this Valentines day poem: A Valentine Hug to You Wrap these hands around you whenever I'm away so you can have a hug from me anytime of day!

Valentine sun catchers:
Cut 2 pieces of wax paper into the shape of a heart (between 4 and 6 inches). Provide your children with crayon shavings in valentines colors, have them sprinkle the shreddings onto one of the heart pieces and then cover them with the othe heart shape. Place a towel over the hearts and hold a warm iron with the steam turned off over the towel for about 25 sec. (be very careful with the hot iron). Remove the towel and punch a hole in the top of the heart. You now have a heart sun catcher. I like to do this activity as an art and science activity. You can talk about the changes in the crayon and the colors mixing.

Hope you find some good ideas... or that they spark some!

Still Sane,

Mama V

White Chicken Chili dinner

2011-01-03T20:43:00.000-08:00

One of our favorite meals is White Chicken Chili. It is soooo yummy! I have 6 kiddos (hence the name of the blog) and finding a meal they ALL like it not the easiest thing. But this meal is one where they clean the bowl and ask for more. In fact for our family of 8 we double this recipe.

So here it is:

White Chicken Chili

2 cans white beans
2 small cans of green chilis (we only use one though)
3 Tbs. lime juice
1 tsp. cumin
1 tsp lemon pepper
4-6 gloves of garlic minced
4 c chicken broth
2 cooked chicken breasts chopped

Simmer for 15 min.

Serve with sour cream, cilantro, pepper jack cheese, tortilla chips.

Winner of the Wooden Puzzle by Draven!

2011-01-02T16:26:00.000-08:00

So the winner of theSunflowerRadiantLove giveaway is:

AEK said... 58
love the waldorf inspired knotty with ooga booga print clothes, etc.

Thanks!
angiedkelly at gmail dot com
December 30, 2010 8:33 PM

Congrats... and thanks so much for taking the time to enter. I only post reviews of things I think you guys will really appreciate!

Still Sane,

Mama V

Winner of the Butter Bell Crock!

2011-01-01T11:51:00.000-08:00

Winner of the Butter Bell Butter Crock is:

Crystal Biehl said... 11

signed up for newsletter 1

December 21, 2010 12:37 PM

Congrats to Crystal!

Thanks for entering the giveaway... please watch for a discount code from Butter Bell!

Review/Giveaway of Wooden Puzzles by Draven

2010-12-21T12:27:00.000-08:00

If you are one of my faithful blog followers you know the love/LOVE relationship I have with SunflowerRadiantLove's dolls.Well, Saskia, the maker of my favorite dolls is not the only talented one in her family!

This is a family of soon to be 7 kidlets and mama and papa. Truly amazing people, and I count my self lucky to call them friends.

So... one of Saskia's sons, Draven has decided to try his hand at wood working. He is truly talented. He puts time and effort into his creations and you can tell in the workmanship of them. I NEEDED these for my kiddos... and so I bought some. Did I mention he is only 14 years old! Way to go Draven!!

Draven wants to spread the word about his new craft and so he included one for me to review. The mountains he included are now one of my favorite sets. They are so majestic looking... like the mountains I grew up with.

I LoVe all of them though... see how cute they are?

The Hedgehog set is one of my FAVES! And I love the mushrooms!

And how awesome is that Rainbow?

Here are the Waves and a Mountain!

And a close up of the Sun! Love it!

Ok, so now you get a chance to win one of these cool creations.

You can win a small mountain:

REQUIRED entries:
visit sunflowerradiantlove which is Saskia and Draven's etsy shop come back here and comment on which item is your favorite.

3-entries: because I love comments...comment on Saskia's blog (let me know where)
2-entries: because I love comments too... new comment somewhere on my blog (let me know where)
3-entries: let's spread the word...grab SunflowerRadiantLove's etsy button and put it on your blog

1-entry: heart SunflowerRadiantLove's etsy page (click the add to favorites on the left)
1-entry: heart your favorite WOODEN item in SunflowerRadientLove's etsy shop (on item page click add item to favorites on the right)

2-entries: Share SunflowerRadiantLove's etsy page (click the add to favorites on the left)
3-entries: become a fan on SunflowerRadiantLove's facebook page

1-entry: follow me on twitter @6andStillSane
2-entries: 1st Tweet about this giveaway... include #waldorf, wooden puzzle, @6andStillSane
1-entry: you can get 1 entry for 1 tweet a day!
3-entries: blog about this giveaway and come back and leave a link
1-entries: grab my blog button
10-entries: purchase a wooden puzzle item from SunflowerRadiantLove's etsy shop!

This giveaway has ended... thanks for entering!

REview/Giveaway of The Original Butterbell Crock by L. Tremain

2010-12-21T10:35:00.001-08:00

I am sure some of you have seen this odd looking contraption that your Grandparents used to keep their butter in. It sat out on the couter, and you wondered what it was. Well, I found out what it was, and I managed to get my hands on one to test out.

My hubby was born and raised on a dairy farm, and he LOVES butter. He would rather eat dry toast than use margarine. NOT kidding! He has totally loved the butter crock that we have.

Butter Bell makes a variety of Butter crocks, but the one I got was this one:

Cute huh? I don't even mind it sitting on my counter. :)

So are you interested in this? I was... how do they work. When you use a butter crock you don't have to put the butter in the fridge, this way you have nice spreadable butter when ever you reach for it.

On their site they have a great diagram of how it works.

First you fill the crock base with cold water. (1/3 cup)

Then you fill the lid of the crock with your softened butter.

Then you just put the lid on the crock.

Easy... so now how does it keep your butter fresh?

Pretty ingenious huh?

They use the water to make an air tight seal that keeps the butter fresh.

This really does work well.

My hubby has really enjoyed having butter on hand for his toast and such. It has been nice that I don't have to hear... "That is NOT butter." ... all the time.

the one thing is to make sure you change the water out to keep it fresh and make sure they water level stays high enough.

It you enjoy spreadable butter but don't want to have to spend a lot of extra money at the store for it this is the way to go.

In fact fright now they are having a special:

Buy any 2 get one FREE! That is GREAT!

If you want to try one out this sale is a great one to try for! Plus you will get an extra for a gift. YAY for free!

They are also offering one up to one of my readers. So here is how you can enter to win one.

*Also... they will be offering a discount in the new year for those of you who don't have a chance to win... so watch my blog for it!

MANDATORY entry- 1 entry: Follow my blog AND visit

The Original Butterbell Crock by L.Tremain

and tell me which crock you will pick if you win.

2 entries: Fan The Original Butterbell Crock on Facebook

3 entries: suggest The Original Butterbell Crock to your 10 friends on Facebook

- you get 3 entries per 10 friends.

3 entries: Sign up the The Original Butterbell Crock newsletter. (find it right under the video in the middle of the page)

3 entries: Grab The Original Butterbell Crock button and put it on your blog - leave the URL where it is:

<br /><a border="0" href="http://www.butterbell.com"><tr><td><a href="http://www.butterbell.com">

2 entries: Watch the Food Network video on the Butterbell Crock website. Tell me how long you can leave the Butterbell crock on the counter. (find it in the middle of the page)

3 entries: post about this giveaway on a forum. -let me know what forum

5 entries: blog about this giveaway include links to 6 and STILL Sane and The Original Butterbell Crock. -give me a link to your blog.

1 entry per tweet: tweet about this giveaway. This can be done 2 times a day at least 4 hrs apart. Include @6andStillSane -leave the URL for your tweet.

1 entry: follow @6andStillSane on twitter -counts for past followers

1 entry: fan 6 and STILL Sane on FB -counts for past fans

1 entry: subscribe to my blog by email -counts for past subscriptions

10 entries: make a purchase from The Original Butterbell Crock

Thanks for entering my giveaway.

This giveaway is closed

Our Christmas Tree hunting. . .

2010-12-04T12:24:00.001-08:00

In pictures:

The kids loved the snow... we have none at home.

Trecking though the trees.

She got snow in her boots... and kept saying, "I want to go home."

Daddy decided to help her out... poor thing.

She got a ride. :)

We found out Tree!!!! Our son helped cut it down.

The big girls playing in the snow.

Timber!

Our little tom-boy!

Already to head home.

Do you cut a tree? Buy one on a lot? or use a fake one?

Still Sane,

Mama V

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T11:38:00.001-08:00

ahh, the good ol' days!

2010-11-08T00:07:00.001-08:00

I was looking though old pictures tonight... thought I would share a few. :)

Halloween 2006

Halloween 2004

my 4 redheads... this would be the littlest ones 2nd b-day

-2005

Still Sane,

Mama V

gotta Love Grover!

2010-10-11T16:49:00.000-07:00

So blogger won't let me post the acutal video here, but check out Grover spoofing the Old Spice video.

Enjoy! :)

Winner of FluffaLumps

2010-10-06T10:56:00.001-07:00

So I finally took the time to smell the roses....

LOL! No really I did count out the winner of the FluffaLumps though! :)

So the winner is:

Kris said...

entry 1 - fluffa fb fan

Congrats! Thanks for entering... There will be more shortly! :)

Still Sane, (barely)

Mama V

dancing with Sesame Street!

2010-10-05T08:31:00.001-07:00

Update on the "bad words Book"!

2010-10-03T11:37:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to enter the FluffaLumps giveaway before it ends Monday night!

I was answering my emails the other day and the gal that had emailed me commented on my blog post about the book my sons class was going to read. There has been some action on this so I thought I would throw out a quick update.

I talked to the other mama of the boy that is in my son's class. She was very concerned about it, and said since she missed the open house she would stop in and visit with the teacher and kinda feel the situation out and see how things sat before we decided on our actions. I decided to wait and see if she found out anything of use.

Then the other day my son came home from school and said that his teacher said they would NOT be reading that book. So I pressed him for further info... you know how kids are. :)

I finally got the whole story... this is what happend:

His class was talking about the books they would be reading for their genre reading and he raised his hand and told the teacher that he didn't want to read the book because it has bad words in it, and that his mom didn't like the book either. YAY! I am so proud of him for standing up when surrounded by his peers... that is such a hard thing to do. I guess others chimed in and so the teacher said... "Ok, we will find a different book."

That was so much easier than I expected. I will still monitor it but I am so happy to know that my son, when faced with a problem could stand up for what he believes.

Wool Dryer balls by FluffaLumps: Review/Giveaway

2010-09-26T18:16:00.000-07:00

I found a new company that I want to introduce you to. You ready?

Meet Fluffalumps:

Fluffy says:

I started making wool dryer balls to help make my cloth diapers nice and soft without creating build-up like dryer sheets do.

I am a school librarian by day and I make my wool dryer balls at night!

I want to provide families with wool dryer balls in bright, vivid colors at a reasonable price.

As of right now I am only making unscented wool dryer balls, but within the course of this year I will also be making scented dryer balls as well as a few other fun products!

When Fluffalumps was just getting started she asked me to review some of her dryer balls because she knows how much I love them!
She worked very quickly and got 4 balls made up. Two for me, and two for one of my lucky readers.

Bright, fun, and all wool! LOVE it!

So which two did I keep? Which two do you have a chance to win? LOL! I'm not telling! You get to be surprised!

Do you know why I love wool dryer balls?

they cut down on drying time
no need for dryer sheets - so one less chemical in our lives
they are AWESOME at eliminating static - hubby says they are his faves of all my "crunchy" things I have tried.
who doesn't love wool?

So for the review . . .

These are probably some of my favorite dryer balls to date. They are felted very well. The ends are tucked in nice so they don't unravel. She chooses such fun colors and the combinations are GREAT! They add some fun to my bland collection.

Buy it NOW: if you just gotta have it now! visit FluffaLumps and put in an order. FluffaLumps is graciously giving my dedicated readers a discount of 10% on their orders through Oct 31th. HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!! Use code: StillSane -discount will be refunded through paypal after purchase is made.

***Remember to leave a separate comment for each additional entry and include your email address in your comments!***
YOU MUST DO THIS TO WIN!!
See my giveaway instructions here for more information.

MANDATORY entry- 1 entry: Follow my blog AND visit Fluffalumps and tell me the color of dryer ball you like the best.

2 entries: Fan FluffaLumps etsy shop

2 entries: Share FluffaLumps with your friends on etsy - under the actions

2 entries: Fan FluffaLumps on facebook

3 entries: suggest FluffaLumps to your 10 friends on Facebook

- you get 3 entries per 10 friends.

3 entries: Grab FluffaLumps button and put it on your blog - leave the URL where it is

<br /><a border="0" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/FluffaLumps"></a>

3 entries: post about this giveaway on a forum. -let me know what forum
5 entries: blog about this giveaway include links to 6 and STILL Sane and FluffaLumps. -give me a link to your blog.
1 entry per tweet: tweet about this giveaway. This can be done 2 times a day at least 4 hrs apart. Include @6andStillSane and @FluffNewbie. -leave the URL for your tweet.
1 entry: follow @6andStillSane on twitter -counts for past followers
1 entry: fan 6 and STILL Sane on FB -counts for past fans
1 entry: subscribe to my blog by email -counts for past subscriptions
2 entries per person: share the idea of dryer balls! Let's spread the idea around. This can not be done as a general shout out on a forum or FB. This is specific to a person! -can be done though email or message though.
10 entries: make a purchase from FluffaLumps

Thanks for entering!

This giveaway is closed!

Dumpster Diving or Buffet Dining?

2010-09-20T13:42:00.000-07:00

We are very religious. If you want to know we belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, or otherwise known as Mormons.
As parents we strive to protect our kids as much as we can from the bad in the world. This includes limiting TV time and knowing what books they are reading and previewing movies before we let them watch them. We also limit internet access and only have it available in the main room of the house where people will see.

That being said I also believe that my kids can be a force for good, and so I send them out into the world. . . hopefully armed with a testimony of the Gospel. This is why I do not homeschool my kids, YET. I feel that the school systems are still ok enough that I can teach my kids and help them see that all things they learn in school are not the way we believe. I also feel that one day the scales will tip and I will not think it is worth sending my kids for the bad that they will be subjected to. I will them keep them home and teach them.

Now that you know where I stand. . .
What would you do?

My son is in 4th grade this year. . . that means he is 9.

New school, new area, new thoughts and ideals.

I went in for open-house and his teacher informed us as parents that one of the books she is going to have them read this year has some bad words in it.
The book: The Great Gilly Hopkins
I have bought it off amazon have started to read it. I am through the 3rd chapter and already there have been 9 swear words, and ones we consider pretty bad. Lots of taking the Lord's name in vain. It is also a very negative book.

I asked one of my dear friends that has been a school teacher for more than 30 years to read it. This is what she said about it:

I just finished the book. I can't believe that anyone let alone a teacher would want to expose this book to children of any age. Swear words are used countless times. This is not the worst part. Talking about the word adultery and breathing hard on the phone was ugly. Are the students supposed to read this book or is the teacher going to read it to the class. What is the teacher's purpose? I don't think that the average 9 year old could read it. Let alone understand many of the references. When I taught high school English, I wound not have had this book on the shelf. I am worried about how the teacher will treat your son if and when you confront her on this choice of reading. I wonder if the principal has read this book or is he allowing it because of lack of knowledge of the content.

I think it would be a good idea if you read it and took notes and then talked to the principal. Let me know how it turns out. I would not recommend this one to the Book Club. I know that I am rambling, but I am upset that a wholesome child would be exposed to this.

So what do you think? What am I as a parent supposed to do? How will this teacher treat my son if I object to his reading it? There is actually one other little boy that goes to Church with us that is in his class. I am thinking I need to talk to his mama. Maybe if there are a few of us that are upset about this it can be changed.

I just don't understand. She said, "It has some bad words in it, but it is a really good book. Award winning and everything."

I don't care what kind of award it got. If it is crap it is crap! Right?

I listened to a talk on Saturday night at one of our church meetings and it just reaffirmed this idea. The speaker said,

Let's go to dinner, let's do a buffet. The store is clean and all the china is shining. They have all the yummiest looking appetizers, then all your favorite entrees. And for desert they have all forms of cakes, pies, and decitante chocolates.
Out back though, there are 10 dumpsters in a row. They hold all the trash that is thrown away from the buffet that isn't eaten. There are rotting vegetables and putrid meats, all covered with flies and maggots.
Where do you want to eat?
The Buffet or the Dumpsters?

Of course we want to eat at the Buffet right? Well why is it any different for our spirits? Why should we feed them garbage? Can we have the spirit of the Lord with us to guide and protect us if we are partaking in the dumpsters?

I know how strong the written word is. I am not happy that my son might be reading these words and thinking them. I heard once that "we Live the way we Think, and we Think about the things we See, Hear and Read".

So how do I tell his teacher this?

What would you do?

Still Sane,

Mama V

Winner of the Rattle

2010-09-20T06:51:00.000-07:00

So who won?

I am excited about this one... there aren't too many cloth diapering dads out there...

Diaper Dad said... 90

tweet

http://twitter.com/DiaperDadJames/status/24937465350

diaperdadjames at gmail dot com

September 19, 2010 7:11 AM

YAY and CONGRATS! I will shoot Diaper Dad an email! :)

I have another one all planned out... Just gotta type it up! LOL! So keep your eyes open!

Still Sane,

Mama V

2010-09-17T10:26:00.000-07:00

**Don't forget to enter the Wooden Rattle Giveaway**

So, I try not to get up on my soap-box very often... especially when it comes to politics.

BUT this can not go unshared. I saw this on FB some of you have seen this and shared it I am sure, but I wanted to post it here for more to see. All I have to say to this is AMEN!!! He said it all!

A young physician by the name of Dr. Roger Starner Jones wrote a short two-paragraph letter to the White House which accurately puts the blame on a "Culture Crisis" instead of a "Health Care Crisis"..

It's worth a quick read:

Dear Mr. President:
During my shift in the Emergency Room last night, I had the pleasure of evaluating a patient whose smile revealed an expensive shiny gold tooth, whose body was adorned with a wide assortment of elaborate and costly tattoos, who wore a very expensive brand of tennis shoes and who chatted on a new cellular telephone equipped with a popular R&B ringtone.

While glancing over her patient chart, I happened to notice that her payer status was listed as "Medicaid"! During my examination of her, the patient informed me that she smokes more than one pack of cigarettes every day, eats only at fast-food take-outs, and somehow still has money to buy pretzels and beer. And, you and our Congress expect me to pay for this woman's health care? I contend that our nation's "health care crisis" is not the result of a shortage of quality hospitals, doctors or nurses. Rather, it is the result of a "crisis of culture" a culture in which it is perfectly acceptable to spend money on luxuries and vices while refusing to take care of one's self or, heaven forbid, purchase health insurance. It is a culture based in the irresponsible credo that "I can do whatever I want to because someone else will always take care of me". Once you fix this "culture crisis" that rewards irresponsibility and dependency, you'll be amazed at how quickly our nation's health care difficulties will disappear.

Respectfully,
ROGER STARNER JONES, MD
If you agree...share this with others.
By:Richard Meckstroth

Wooden Rattles by Earnest Efforts Review/Giveaway

2010-09-12T14:09:00.000-07:00

**This giveaway is CLOSED!**

You asked for reviews on natural toys and I heard you!

I love browsing on Etsy to find new, fun, natural stuff. One day when browsing I came across the funnest little baby rattle. I love rattles, and what baby doesn't like them?

BUT . . . these ones are wood. I must admit I was a bit apprehensive about slivers and such as I have done a bit of woodworking. How would they get the wood smooth enough for a baby to chew on it?

Well, I did some researched and asked some questions, and I now know!

Do you want to know?

Earnest Efforts is a Mama and Pappa company. They love to make these fun and unique rattles and the other items they make.

They hand sand all of their rattles to get rid of the splinters, and then they finish with Clapham's all-natural bees wax. They don't use any stains, so no chemicals!

I wasn't totally convinced until I got these in the mail.

They are AMAZING!!!! They are so smooth and the rattle is perfect. Any baby would love this natural toy. I don't have a baby any more, but I do have a cute little niece that lives just over the mountain. Meet Illyana! A cutie huh?

Needless to say she is loving her new toy! There are a few of those toys that are essential to go in the diaper bag when tripping around... this amazing rattle makes it on that list!

In fact I enjoy playing with the one I have to give to one of you lucky folks!

I guess that is why they make some that are for adults . . . really they do!

They call these Spirit Shakers. They are a palm rattle for relaxation. They also make amazing and beautiful wood boxes. These they craft from rescued wood, and they use the natural cuts they find to sculpt these masterpieces!

If you want to make a purchase for your little one or a gift for another. You can purchase direct from Earnest Effort on their Etsy shop or you can find a retailer on their Locate a Store page.

You have the opportunity to win one of Earnest Efforts natural baby rattle.

The giveaway item is the dark colored rattle pictured here, I believe it is a walnut wood.

***Remember to leave a separate comment for each additional entry and include your email address in your comments!***
YOU MUST DO THIS TO WIN!!

See my giveaway instructions here for more information.

Mandatory entry: follow my blog AND visit Earnest Efforts on Etsy and favorite their shop.

2 Entries: follow Earnest Efforts new blog

2 entries: share Earnest Efforts on etsy with 5 friends ('share' can be found on left hand side under 'Actions')

2 entries: What other item that I did not mention does Earnest Efforts make?

3 entries: grab Earnest Efforts shop button -give me a link to where you put it

3 entries: grab Earnest Efforts blog button -give me a link to where you put it

3 entries: post about this giveaway on a forum. -let me know what forum

5 entries: blog about this giveaway include links to 6 and STILL Sane and Earnest Efforts shop. -give me a link to your blog.

1 entry per tweet: tweet about this giveaway. This can be done 2 times a day at least 4 hrs apart. Include @6andStillSane, #giveaways and #naturaltoy. -leave the URL for your tweet.

1 entry: follow @6andStillSane on twitter -counts for past followers

1 entry: fan 6 and STILL Sane on FB -counts for past fans

1 entry: subscribe to my blog by email -counts for past subscriptions

10 entries: make a purchase from Earnest Efforts

This Giveaway is Closed!

Thanks for entering !

REMEMBER...

2010-09-11T09:54:00.000-07:00

Randumosity winner.... PLUS 10% discount!

2010-09-09T06:30:00.001-07:00

Heads UP!!! I picked one winner and guess what? NO EMAIL! :( also no public profile... no way to contact! REMEMBER to check out how to enter my contests HERE.

Sorry guys I have been swamped with diapers. -and some new sewers. I completely forgot to announce the winner for the Randymosity giveaway!!

So here we go. The LUCKY winner is:

So who is #374?

curlie girlie said... 374

https://twitter.com/curliegirlie03/status/22549532491
curliegirlie03 at gmail dot com

August 30, 2010 12:22 PM

Congrats Curlie Girlie!

***LADIES!!!! don't forget that Randumosity has offered YOU a 10% discount on your order through September 30th. Use code: StillSane -discount will be refunded through paypal after purchase is made.

Winner of the Nifty Nappy GC

2010-09-01T16:08:00.000-07:00

I want to thank you all for the AMAZING amount of entries we had in the Nifty Nappy Giveaway. We had 1,193 entries! That is a LOT!!!

I am excited about the upcoming giveaways I have lined up. You can check them out under the Sponsors tab! I will start next week with a couple. Are you ready?

Some of you requested cloth diaper giveaways. My only problem with that is I don't have a little one in cloth diaper anymore. :( I know so sad huh?

I am Mama V... I am also the maker of the Nifty Nappy cloth diapers. I assume most of you know this. So on occasion I will have some Nifty Nappy products to giveaway.

So now to the part you all want to see.... the winner of the Nifty Nappy $50 Gift Certificate.

The winner was #122

So who was that? I should make you all count huh? bwahahaha

Really I won't do that to you. I do need to figure out how to get a counter thingy for the comments though. :)

The winner is Katrina Welch!

Katrina said...

I follow you on twitter (katrinawelch)
#2

August 17, 2010 4:10 PM

Congrats Katrina... Katrina has been emailed and I am awaiting her confirmation.

Another Year....

2010-08-31T10:47:00.001-07:00

So another year has passed.

What have I accomplished in the last year?
What are some BIG things that have happened?

I started sewing some quilts for my girls. That will have to be finished another year I am afraid.
I went on a scrapbooking retreat with some of my best friends.
I planted and awesome garden... and had to leave it. :(
I started a website to sell my cloth diapers.
I got glasses
I got a Macbook!!!
My family moved from Utah to Colorado! <-- this is a biggie!

So what has the last year brought for you?

Make sure to enter the Nifty Nappy $50 GC giveaway! It ends TONIGHT!!!

What are you wearing today? My baby!

2010-08-28T18:55:00.000-07:00

Do you wear your baby? Man, I wish I did. I wish I had someone share with me what I am going to share with you when I was starting to have my kiddos.

I carried my kiddos a lot, and man a momma's arms get really strong. LOL!

I also used a stroller once in awhile, but to be able to have my baby with me while chasing around all my other kids wold have been super nice.

I have used a sling... but not with my own kiddos. I used it with my nephew, and I used HugaMonkey sling. I am going to be doing a review and a giveaway for one of these real soon. *watch for it!

In the mean time, I think I would have liked a wrap.

I like the idea of a piece a fabric that I had laying around, or picked up for a couple bucks being used to carry my baby. I am all about saving a couple bucks. Plus I like the look of the wrap.

So how about some instructions... are you interested in a wrap, but don't want to pay a lot for one?

I found this blog with instructions on making your own.

Make Baby Suff.com

Then is you need some instructions on how to put on a wrap...

On the Baby Wearer you can find a huge list of different ways to use the wrap.

So are you intimidated by the wrap? Do you want to try your hand at a little sewing? On this fun website Handmade-Adelaide-Baby.com you can find a pattern for a sling.

So, if you are lucky enough to have a wee little one to carry around -- wear them all you can... they get way to big WAY to fast!

Still Sane,

Mama V

Do you need Validation?

2010-08-27T15:18:00.000-07:00

It is so easy to give validation. Do we think about it? Do we say, "you have a beautiful smile." Do we tell the waiter his tie looks nice? Do we take the time to share the love that we have inside? We should! I know I am going to better after watching this!

I am not a goal setter... but I am going to do this...

I am going to validate each of my children and my hubby at least once a day! Will you do this with me? Will you accept my challenge?

I can't wait to see how this will change the feeling in our home.

This is a little long for a short video to watch on the computer. It is a little more than 15 min.

It is so worth it though!

If you need a "pick me up" this is it! :)

Hope you enjoy...

Self-Sufficient

2010-08-27T08:28:00.000-07:00

I like to think that we are getting more and more self-sufficient in our home as time goes on. We adopted the cloth diapers. We hang our clothes out on the line, we plant a garden, we put up our food, we use cloth "paper towels". We have also done the chicken thing...

And that my friends is why the chicken crossed the road…now you know! :)

This is the Real World!

2010-08-27T07:04:00.000-07:00

I saw this today on FB. I think it is hilarious!

This is too true. People need to realize this is the real world, and kids need to learn to take responsibility for their actions.... or lack there of!

Enjoy!

Still Sane,

Mama V

We GOT the HOUSE! YAY!

2010-08-26T09:21:00.000-07:00

I am so super excited and you are the first to know it!
They accepted out offer on the house!

This is a really good house for our family!

Awesome & roomy family home with 5 bedrooms, 2.75 bathrooms, office, tiled family room with gas stove, nice separate living room, country kitchen, 2 car attached garage, covered front porch downstairs, wood deck, sprinklers system, storage/workshop, apple & apricot trees! Master has private bath. Very nice views!

OUR house!

Dining room off the Kitchen

The Kitchen

Master Bath

Living room -upstairs... we will make it the family room though!

Family room... you enter here so we will make it the Living Room

There are lots of fruit trees, apple, apricot, and I think a pear :)

Back of the house

It is on the edge of town. But is it right across the street from the church and walking distance to the schools! I am so excited! It will probably still be a couple weeks for the closing and what not... but !!!! It is there! YAY!!!

Thanks for letting me share!

Wordless Wednesday: when the kids get the camera!

2010-08-25T08:48:00.001-07:00

Goofing off at Grandma's

Mama's Helper

Bookworm

Only Boy

Drama Queen

Our Miracle

My Baby

Grandma's fish pillow

Piggy Painted toenails!

Oh by the way... !

2010-08-24T10:55:00.000-07:00

We listen to lots of music in our house and car. I get tired of some of the silly songs they have for kds out there. One that we all kinda like though is:

Jumpin' Joe Scruggs

So we all know how kids are... right?

Oh, by the way...one of my favorite songs he sings goes like this:

Oh by the way...

It's Monday morning, I'm running late there's not a minute to spare

Mom calls out, 'come on let's go' as she finishes drying her hair.

Now I'm in my place with a smile on my face just thinking about my day

Then I think of some things I'm supposed to bring, and that's when I say...

Dear, mom.... oh by the way

I need an orange juice can, 4 cotton balls and 6 rubberbands

and by the way I'm an angel in the play, I'm gonna sing and I need some wings.

Well I guess I've induced some stress mom's smile begins to fade

and she runs to the kitchen and digs though the trash for the can from the lemonade.

Now I start to protest but she's doing her best so then I try to make it right...

I say, I need everything by 8:15. BUT I don't need the wings till tonight.

Oh by the way, I need an ORANGE juice can, if it's lemonade will the teacher understand?

And by the way they're having meatloaf today,

if you don't mind a bunch... I'm gonna need a lunch.

Sometimes I just don't believe how resourceful mom's can be.

She gets the cotton balls and the rubberbands from her vanity.

I've got a lemonade can not quite the right brand, but mom says 'It will do.'

Then we're out of the door it's 7:54, I won't be late for school.

Oh by the way, meatloaf is better than it seems...

for my lunch mom packed a can of sardines.

And for the play it's sisters costume from ballet I'm gonna sing in her butterfly wings.

My soapbox!

2010-08-23T14:07:00.000-07:00

I hate to think what they do to the kids when they make a mess!

First day of school at our house... what about you? Do you have kids old enough to go off to school? I hate the first day of school. I know some moms love it and are so happy for school to start. I am not one of those moms though! I love to have my kids home. I am always so sad for them to go off and leave me and prove their independence one day at a time for the rest of their lives.

My baby is 3 :( I know sad huh?

I have been asked by MANY what preschool I am going to put her in. You know what... I'm NOT! So there! Take that society! I am NOT going to send my little baby off everyday to be taught by someone else when I am sitting at home and can be teaching her!

Don't get me wrong... if you are a mama who has to work then preschool might be for you or if you have a child that needs to have the social interactions with other kids then I am not condemning you! If you choose to send your kiddo to preschool then that is what you feel is right, but I know from experience that once they walk out that door for their first day of school there is no turning back the time. :(

I am going to keep my baby home with me as long as I can! I will teach her the things she needs to know to get her ready for school, and I will make sure she has social interaction so that she can deal with school, but dang it I'm not sending her to preschool!

*Stepping down off the soapbox...

So I need to head out now to go get my kids. Hope the first day was fun for them! :) I took pics... I will post tomorrow!

Mama Cloth Review/Giveaway: Randumosity

2010-08-21T09:40:00.001-07:00

This giveaway is closed!

I have found the most amazing product! You may not all know, but I do the cloth diaper thing...

One day I got to thinking how it isn't fair that all these babies get amazingly soft cloth on their bums and I have to use crunchy, stiff, yucky pads one week out of the month! Bleh!!

I started to look around on etsy for an alternative. I knew there were cloth pads out there, and heck if I had the time . . . I have the materials and I could make my own.... BUT.... no time to sew for myself!

In my looking though I was pretty picky. With my Cloth Diaper business I have a knowledge of fabrics and what works and what doesn't. I was looking for something with bamboo or hemp as an absorbent layer. I also wanted, no REQUIRED, a velour inner layer! That stuff is so super soft, and it is a great wicking fabric too.

In all my searching I only found one etsy shop that had everything I wanted in a pad.

Randumosity!

Jami ROCKS! I love that she has fun prints too!

I follow Randumosity on FB now too to keep up with all the new stuff and current specials!

I bought my first set, and I jumped in with both feet. I bought a big ol' set. We don't do anything small around here! LOL!

Don't those look so soft? Well let me be the first to tell you THEY are! I LOVE them! Now that I have tried them... I doubt I will use anything else!

They are very absorbent even for my heavy days.

Jami offers pads with either velour or a soft flannel top.

The backs are flannel which is perfect for non-slippage (is that a word?)

Doesn't that velour look simply delicious? I love that it is turned and top stitched too. Nothing to poke or scratch. The snaps are set with a professional snap press and are through 2 layers of fabric for durability. I love resin snaps... they are my snap of choice.

Plus look at the super cute fabric choices. She has quite the selection. They are all fun and spunky... which I think helps get me though a little more cheerfully! The snaps all coordinate and the whole little thing is simply cute. They also fold up all nice so that if you pull this out of your purse no one will have any idea what it is.

I must add in here that my pre-teen has recently been visited by "aunt-flow". I actually had bought my first set of pads right before. I told her I would not MAKE her use the cloth pads if she didn't feel comfortable with it. She looked at me like I was crazy and was all like, "well why wouldn't I. . . they are softer and cuter!" Her only concern was what she would do with them during school. So we purchased a couple wet bags and showed her how to use them.

Did I mention that Randumosity makes fun little wetbags? Do you know what a wetbag is? They are bags with a waterproof layer in them that you can store your clean OR used pads in. Until you get home to wash them.

They are the perfect size to slip right into your purse for on the go!

Care of is easy-peasy! I have a cute little bucket thingy, and I fill it with cold water. Then I just put the used pads in until I am ready to wash a load of laundry. Wash in washing machine and then dry! Pretty easy huh?

If you feel my instructions are kinda vague... don't worry

Randumosity sends a card with care of instructions with each purchase.

Aside from them feeling a TON nicer...

They also save a TON of money!

And if you want to think a little bit "green". . .

think of all the trash you will NOT be making!

She also makes ouchie pads filled with flaxseed, reusable nursing pads for new mama's and also some flaxseed eye pads.

So I know that you are just dying to give them a try now right? Well you can . . .

Buy it NOW: if you just gotta have it now! visit Randumosity and put in an order. Randumosity is graciously giving my dedicated readers a discount of 10% on their orders through September 30th. Use code: StillSane -discount will be refunded through paypal after purchase is made.

***Remember to leave a separate comment for each additional entry and include your email address in your comments!***
YOU MUST DO THIS TO WIN!!

See my giveaway instructions here for more information.

Win it NOW: what will you win? Jami has graciously offered:

a set of 4 Reusable cloth pads. Winners choice of pads and prints. This is a great number to start with to decide if cloth pads are the choice for you.

MANDATORY entry- 1 entry: Follow my blog AND visit Randumosity and tell me the type of pad you think would suite you the best.

1 entry: favorite Randumosity on etsy

2 entries: share Randumoisty on etsy with 5 friends ('share' can be found on left hand side under 'Actions')

1 entry: like Randumosity on FB

1 entry: follow Randumosity on twitter

2 entries: grab Randumosity's button -give me a link to where you put it

3 entries: post about this giveaway on a forum. -let me know what forum

5 entries: blog about this giveaway include links to 6 and STILL Sane and Randumosity. -give me a link to your blog.

1 entry per tweet: tweet about this giveaway. This can be done 2 times a day at least 4 hrs apart. Include @6andStillSane and @Randumosity. -leave the URL for your tweet.

1 entry: follow @6andStillSane on twitter -counts for past followers

1 entry: fan 6 and STILL Sane on FB -counts for past fans

1 entry: subscribe to my blog by email -counts for past subscriptions

2 entries per person: share the idea of cloth pads with another woman! Let's spread the idea around. This can not be done as a general shout out on a forum or FB. This is specific to a person! -can be done though email or message though.

10 entries: make a purchase from Randumosity

This giveaway is closed! Thanks for entering...

congrats to the winner: Curlie Girlie

-but don't forget the 10% discount good though Sept. 30th

a letter I got in my email...

2010-08-20T18:12:00.002-07:00

Tough Love vs. Spanking - Good Argument

Most of america's populace think it improper to spank children, so I have tried other methods to control my kids when they have one of "those moments".

One that I found effective is for me to just take the child for a car ride and talk.

Some say it's the vibration from the car, others say it's the time away from any distractions such as TV, Video Games, Computers, iPod, etc.

Either way, my kids usually calm down and stop misbehaving after out car ride together.

I've included a photo below of one of my sessions with my son, in case you would like to use the technique.

Sincerely,

Your Friend

After the week I have had this was simply hilarious to me. I hope that my humor does not offend anyone... this is all in fun! I Love each and every one of my children and I do value their lives. I would NEVER do this with my child and I am NOT suggesting this to anyone either!

Thanks for letting me have some fun.

Meltdown

2010-08-19T22:34:00.000-07:00

I am going to admit it. . . I had a total meltdown today!

It was just a dumb little thing that set it off, but really isn't that usually all it is.

"The straw that broke the camels back."

The idiom the straw that broke the camel's back is from an Arab proverb about loading up a camel beyond its capacity to move. This is a reference to any process by which cataclysmic failure (a broken back) is achieved by a seemingly inconsequential addition (a single straw). This also gives rise to the phrase "the last straw", used when something is deemed to be the last in a line of unacceptable occurrences. -Wikipedia

So there you have it... just one little thing. That was it. I bawled all the way from Alamosa back to the hotel. . . 20 min drive. Then I didn't want to have to go in and be cooped up with the kids asking questions. :(

For those of you that don't know the situation. . . we are in the middle of a move. We are living in a hotel right now with all 6 of the kiddos. The hotel is actually a nice set up for us. It is a family suite, it has 2 bedrooms, and in the main living area there is a king sized bed and a futon. There are enough beds for everyone, but not enough space for the kids to play. We did go and buy a cheap-o DVD player when we got here. The kids have really been good about the whole thing, but with the stress of it all and lack of sleep with worrying about things. . . well I lost it!

So I guess sometimes I teeter on the edge of sanity. BUT I think I manage to hold on somehow.

How about you? Do you have things that put you over the edge? Or can you keep your cool no matter what?

Still Sane,

Mama V

Nifty Nappy Gift Certificate Giveaway!!!

2010-08-17T12:45:00.001-07:00

Welcome to my NEW blog!!! I am excited to start this fun venture off the beaten path!

I want to build my followers up really quick, so to pull some of you fine ladies in . . .

We will have a Nifty Nappy gift certificate Giveaway!

Since I own Nifty Nappy Cloth Diapers I can do that! hehehe

Most of you already know about my diapers, but I will share a little about them.

Nifty Nappy fitted cloth diapers:

This Nifty Nappy is just that, “Nifty”. It is a one size fits all from 7-35 lbs. This diaper is designed to be the only diaper you will need until you have potty-trained your young one! If your infant is too small it can be folded to fit smaller, we have a great tutorial section on the webpage. Great for those with more than one in diapers. Only one type of diaper and it will fit all CD’d babies in your house. YEAH!!!I have to say...This diaper needs a cover. Paired with a wool cover they are practically bullet proof!

PeachyKeen Pocket diaper:

This is the pocket diaper that I have perfected over the years. It took me many tries to come up with the perfect pocket diaper. The materials you use, the way you sew it, and the inserts you use make all the difference here.
It is made with a PUL waterproof layer, a cute outer and a new insert. I am excited to announce BETTER inserts! I have brought the wonder of hemp and Bamboo absorbency into my Pocket diaper! The Inserts are now made with a layer of Organic Hemp fleece and a layer of Organic Bamboo velor. Sewn in “fortune cookie” fashion they are easy to wash and quick to dry!
When you use a pocket, there is no need for a cover.

Snappy SwimzEaze reusable swim diaper:

The Snappy SwimzEaze keeps your babies tush comfy while keeping your mind at ease, knowing that everything will stay in the diaper and not in the pool!
Don’t you hate buying a swim diaper and then using it once and throwing it away? With this reusable cloth swim diaper you can get many years of swimming in and have an adorable water baby!
This swim diaper will fit from newborn to a size 4 disposable diaper. I also make a larger size that will fit from a size 2 to 6 disposable diaper.

Woolie Wraps, Soakers and Longies wool covers:

Wool has got to be the most breathable natural cloth diaper cover on the market. Easy to care for and super soft, these covers are great to help eliminate rashes.

We make Wool covers in:

Woolie Wraps- which are a wrap style cover
SuperDuper Soaker- which are a bloomer style pull-up cover
Nifty Knickers- which are a pant style pull-up cover

We also carry:

Bitty Bums- which is the same design as the Nifty Nappy only smaller!
Heavy Doody- which is a great heavy wetter diaper
Organic Nifty Nappy- which is the same design as the Nifty Nappy fitted only 100% organic.
Extra Inserts- for those heavy wetters or just for some night time help.

We aren't selling direct from out site for right now, BUT we do have amazing cloth diaper retailers that are very customer service oriented and will help you out any way they can.

So now on to the good parts huh? The giveaway!

What to giveaway....

I am thinking a Gift Certificate worth $50 towards your choice of Nifty Nappy products.

How does that sound...

I need you to include your email address if you don't have it on your google profile. I need to be able to reach you. I will notify the winner by email. If I don't get a reply in 24 hrs I will pick a new winner. Winners will be chosen using random.org.

As I am trying to build up followers there is a couple mandatory entries:

Mandatory:

1 entry: follow 6 and Still Sane blog through google friends on the sidebar

1 entry: subscribe to my blog via email on the sidebar

Extra entries:

1 entry: tell me what kind of products you would like featured on this blog!

2 entries: follow me on twitter @6andStillSane

1 entry: follow @myniftynappy on twitter

2 entries: tweet about this giveaway -you may tweet 2X's a day at least 4 hrs apart!

*tweet must include @6andStillSane, @myniftynappy and #clothdiapers

3 entries: post about this giveaway on a forum... 3 entries per forum!

5 entries: Blog about this Giveaway and my NEW blog include links to 6 and STILL Sane and also to Nifty Nappy Cloth diapers

Also I know I can't make it an entry, but you can "like" us on FB

This giveaway will end on my birthday! Aren't you lucky- for my birthday you get the gift!

Ends: 8/31

STILL Sane...

Mama V