My 2017 Goals & Resolutions

Happy New Year!  Hello 2017.  While I wouldn't consider myself a traditionalist, one tradition I love repeating year after is setting my goals and resolutions for the incoming year.  This year was no exception.  I'm excited and anxious to get started crossing accomplishments off my list!  Keep scrolling to see what I'm hoping to accomplish over the next 12 months.

Hello 2016

Happy New Year!  I rung in 2016 surrounded by loved ones at home.  After a few years of unsuccessful attempts to attend the festivities Uptown here in the Queen City, we decided it was best to hang out at home.  The Mr picked up dinner from our favorite restaurants, I baked cookies with the kids and we watched movies.  We almost missed counting in the New Year with the ball drop by 25 seconds.  Thank goodness for my mom's text.

Anyways, I couldn't let this day without saying thank you.  Thank you to those who are continuing to support YUMMommy in 2016 and to those who supported me throughout 2015 and to those supporters who have yet to stumble across my blog.  YUMMommy is turning six in a few days and all I can think about is what an awesome ride this all has been.

I've met some amazing people, gotten work with some of my favorite brands and learned a few life/business lessons along the way.  My family and I can't wait to see what awaits us this year.  I look forward connecting with and bringing y'all along on the ride.

The Mr, Moo, JJ and I wish each and everyone of you a blessed and prosperous New Year.  May your 2016 be filled with an abundance of love, happiness, joy and success!

Let us know how you rung in the New Year in comments!

Thankful Thursday And A Happy New Year

"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever."

1 Chronicles 16:34 (NIV)

Happy New Year and first Thankful Thursday of 2015!  I, for one, entered into this year giving God thanks for all of the blessings He bestowed upon me and my loved ones in 2014.  Sure there were some rocky moments and some hills we had to climb, but as the gospel song goes "I won't complain."  I'm so very grateful to have made it to see 2015 with all of my family and friends.

So, apparently the rules for popping fireworks here have changed and I'm super excited because this New Year's Eve we will be getting some.  Yes, I'm planning way ahead, but it'll be the kids first experience actually popping them.  I can't wait to see how JJ will do.  He'll be four and should enjoy it.  My neighbors must have bought several fireworks stores because they starting popping them at 7 PM yesterday and didn't stop until well after midnight.  I'm grateful though because they put on a great show for the rest of us.

I'm grateful that I'm feeling better.  Beyond glad that this flu is going away.  I saw on the news the CDC said we're having one of the worst flu epidemics in US that they've seen in years.  I will must stock back up on my hand sanitizer for the car and my purse.  Also, thankful the kids are better as well.  I think they had common colds and not the flu though.

2014 ended with great news for my family on my mom's side.  One of my older cousins (she's also a blogger) got married and announced her pregnancy!  I'm so happy for her because she had a year  that was a bit rough.  She deserves this happiness.  I'm hoping we'll have another family reunion soon because we live so far from my mom's family and don't get to see them as often as I would like.

I'm giving thanks that we finally got a small, glass dining room table.  It was a gift from my mom (Thanks Mommy!), and we scored it at one of our local Goodwills.  It was in perfect condition except for one of the chairs missing two screws on the back, but we handled that.  She also reorganized the kids' room and finally made some sense of their jungle of toys.

JJ is working hard to use phrases now when he communicates with us!  That's a huge improvement.  He doesn't do it all the time, but we're getting there.  He's finally able to say almost everyone's name and I'm super excited.  He said my baby sister's name for the first time this week while she was here and it almost moved her to tears.  I'm feeling confident that he'll be speaking a lot clearer by end by his fourth birthday.

Well, I hope that your 2015 got off to a great start.  I pray that this year brings you an abundance of love, happiness and success.

What are you giving thanks for this New Year's?

Toodles 2014!

Oh my goodness, I can't believe it's already NEW YEAR'S EVE!!  I had to triple check the calendar today to make sure I wasn't imagining this.  This year it's just the kiddies and I celebrating because the Mr had to work.  I'm sure they'll fall asleep before the ball drops as we've all been under the weather since two days after Christmas.  It started with Moo and JJ both wheezing and then I caught the flu.

Nevertheless, we're literally just a couple of hours from ringing in 2015 and I'm super excited.  I truly believe that with the start of every year, we are given a chance to start anew.  Another 365 in which we can challenge ourselves and set measurable goals aka resolutions. I'll save my New Year's Resolution post for tomorrow.  Right now, I want to reflect on 2014.

Hands down my favorite memories from this year are Moo's first day of school (before we picked her up in tears) and chaperoning her first field trip.  It felt like I had to wait forever for those moments to get here.  Watching her grow and find her independence even more has certainly been bittersweet for me, but rewarding at the same time.  I'm grateful that to have been had the chance to share in those moments with her and look forward to what other firsts the school year has in store for us.

2014 has absolutely been a year of tremendous growth and improvement for JJ.  My little guy seems to have morphed from a baby to a toddler and now a little man so quickly.  His speech and temperament are levels ahead of where they were this time last year.  Our communication is better than ever because I can understand him clearer and he is better able to tell me what he wants and needs.  I can't say enough how proud I am of him.

This year I got had the opportunity to attend some awesome blog related events.  At these events, I was able to meet and connect with a few other bloggers and social media influencers from my area.  It's always nice to have people who can not only relate to you as a blogger, but who can connect with in real life.

I still can't believe that I added vlogger to the list of hats that I wear.  I honestly didn't think I would ever have the courage to start vlogging.  I'm very much the introvert and private person.  So, it's crazy to think that I've been vlogging almost a full year now.  Be sure to check out my YUMMommy Channel!  My inner fan girl totally bugged out when I got tweeted and replied back to by three of my favorite YouTubers- Gabe & Babe TV,  April Justin TV and Shaylee Daily.

My family and I moved to a bigger apartment in a better neighborhood.  Speaking of our new neighborhood, it's relatively close to all of the malls here!  I love that because I had cut down on going to the mall because we lived so far out and with traffic going and coming it just wasn't worth making frequent trips.  I'm also back closer to Target, my thrift stores and favorite restaurants.

This year marked nine years that Mr and I have been a couple and four years that we have been a married couple.  I can't believe our tenth couple anniversary is just around the corner!  It's such a huge milestone when so many couples don't even make it three years together now days including the dating period.

The greatest lesson I've lessons I've learned this year are:

• Respect the process of your journey.  What may come fast for others may take some time for you to achieve or accomplish.  I could so frustrated so many times this year working on my novels and my blog.  I felt like everyone else around me was finding their success faster than I was and when I tried to force myself to take shortcuts or speed up, it often ended in disaster and further irritation.
• No matter how much you support some people they won't ever ride for you as hard as you do for them.  There's always going to be a few people who will take more than they give.  They'll ask you to support them, claim to be a friend and then go missing.  Don't sweat it.  Karma will repay you ten fold in  positive ways.
• It's okay to not associate with certain people regardless of if they're family, a former classmate, etc.  I've spent too much of life taking crap from folks because we were related or used to kick it.  I finally said enough is enough and dropped that baggage.  Life is too short to be surrounded by folks who keep stuff stirred up and who don't show you proper respect.  Yeah, I'll say hi if I see them in street, but I keep it moving.
• I am a PHENOMENAL mom.  I've struggled so hard with considering myself a good mom because I felt like somehow I was solely responsible for whatever was wrong with my kids.  Their severe allergies, JJ's ASD, etc were all things I blamed on myself.  It seems crazy because these are things I have ZERO control over, but that was my thought process for so long.  I'd cry day and night over it.

If I had to choose one thing that I got better at this year, it would be my patience.  I'm more at peace and when you're calmer and more at ease, you're able to be more patient with people.  This has really helped me in dealing with my husband.  He used to get the brunt of my impatience a lot and I've dailed it back a lot.  I could still do better and that's something I'll have to continue to work on in the New Year.

Overall, I'm most grateful for just having more opportunities to spend time with my family.  The kids have loved seeing my mom, baby sister and niece more this year.  They actually just went home after spending fours staying with us.  I got photograph and video record everyone opening their Christmas presents.  We had some good laughs and they helped with the kids once the sickies descended upon us.

That's it for my recap of 2014.  I hope that you all have had a great 2014 and that you have a wonderful start to 2015!  Thank you for your continued support.  It is very much appreciated.  See you in the New Year!

Holiday Shopping With BJ's Wholesale Club: My Ultimate Shopping List For Rocking Holiday Parties & Dinner

Disclosure:  This post is sponsored by BJ's Wholesale Club.  I attended a Holiday Preview Event where I either saw and/or got to try out the items listed in this post.  All opinions are 100% my own and do not necessarily represent those of the company.

Growing up my mom always executed the best holiday parties and dinners for Christmas and New Year's.  I don't know how she did because money was always tight.  However, almost every year she'd sit us older girls down and we'd plan out everything from the menu to decor and gifts.  Myself and some of my favorite Queen City bloggers got together to attend the BJ's Holiday Preview Event earlier this  month at our local BJ's Wholesale Club.

I had blast getting to know more about BJ's Wholesale Club, checking out all of their holiday goodies, and sampling some good eats.  I even got in a little shopping.  Attending this event definitely made me think of my mom's holiday parties, how much they rocked and that maybe it's time I start hosting a few of my own.  Therefore, I put together this ultimate shopping list of some of my favorite foods, decor and gifts/favors that I saw and tried at BJ's.  Having seen their prices first hand, I feel confident saying that I'll be getting the most bang for my buck.

What better place to start planning than with the food.  And let me tell y'all, BJ's has one of the best selections in terms of food.  Meats, cheeses, fresh produce and more.  They were kind enough to put together a little luncheon/taste testing for us and it did not disappoint!  Also, I should mention that BJ's does accept Apple Pay, EBT and manufacturer coupons!  So, let's dig into this list.

Lobster Crostini by Cheating Gourmet-  New to BJ's this yummy appetizer is made with premium Maine Lobster meat blended with a creamy cheddar cheese spread over a nice toasted French baguette.  I was in lobster heaven.  Since, JJ has a shellfish allergy, it had been well over a year since I'd had any.  You won't regret putting this item on your menu and neither will your guests.

J. Scott Bacon Wrapped Tenderloin-  Bite size beef tenderloin sprinkled with steak seasoning and wrapped in a smoked hickory bacon?  Yes, I don't mind if I do.  These were so flavorful!  Not that I was expecting anything less because bacon makes anything taste good, but the steak seasoning really took it up a notch.   

Fresh Express Organic Produce-  You guys already know that we are a Fresh Express household.  However, I was delighted to see that BJ's not only has a great selection of their regular produce products, but their  organic produce as well!  With that said, definitely stock up on the Baby Spinach, which could be used to make spinach dip or sauted to use as a side.  Their Spring Mix salad is great and you can spruce it up by adding walnuts, dried cranberries and your favorite balsamic dressing to make it more festive.

Wellsley Farms Mini Pastry Platter and Assorted Cake Platter- The Mini Pastry platters include ready to serve Old World pastry treats that offer sweet flavors of tangy fruit, chocolate, mint, toffee and more.  If you're like me and my little brother, then no Christmas dinner or party is complete without a cake platter, especially one that includes cheese cake and carrot cake.  And oh delicious the Wellsley Farms carrot cake was!  I may or may not be getting one for my birthday this Friday.

Wellsley Farms Prepared Foods-  Not good at cooking from scratch?  No worries because BJ's has you covered with a great selection of prepared foods from Wellsley Farms.  From macaroni and cheese to chicken breasts stuffed with asparagus and wrapped in bacon, your guests won't go hungry.  All you have to do is follow the heating/baking instructions on the packaging.  The kiddies and I had the chicken breasts and they were delicious.  I think I'm going to take a break from cooking from scratch at least once a week now.

Now that we have the menu nailed down, let's move on down the list to decor.  I learned from my mom that decor is important because it will keep guests occupied before and after the eats have been served.  How?  Haven't you ever walked into room decorated so beautifully that you got lost trying to take in everything?  And don't don't forget table, it's like a one big centerpiece for your dining room.

Gemmy 10' Animated Lightsync Airblown Frosty-  This BJ's exclusive outdoor decoration is the perfect way to show your guests (and neighbors) that you've embraced the holiday spirit.  Frosty inflates in seconds and will definitely be a showstopper.  Down here in the Carolinas, we love big inflatable decor.

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Holiday Decor Accent Rug-  If you're looking a more inexpensive way to add a little touch of outdoor holiday decor, check out BJ's exclusive selection of holiday accent rugs.  They're under $20, adorable and functional!  How cute is that Rudolph one above?

Christmas Tree- Whether you want an indoor or outdoor tree, you will have a wide selection to choose from at BJ's.  There were pre-lit trees, short trees, and plain trees.  The Sylvania Pre-lit Frasier Fur was my favorite! (Available online)

I hide to hang this up high out of the reach of little fingers.

CEMOI Chocolate Tree Decorations- After you've picked out your tree, be sure to pick up some of these festive and edible chocolate decorations to hang on it.  It'll be like a special treat for your guests.

We had a beautiful tablescape for the luncheon part of our visit.  Be sure to watch the brief video clip below.  Be prepared to see some of the realest looking disposable china and silverware that I have seen in years.

Looked real didn't it?  Besides the realist look of the plates and utensils, I loved how simple, but festive the overall place setting was.  Want to duplicate this look?  The products are listed below.

TrendWare Metallic Plastic Utensils-  The shiny on finish on these will definitely have your guests thinking you ran out to pick up an extra set of real silverware.  They're very sturdy and not flimsy like other brands I've tried.

TrendWare Plastic Dessert and Dinner Plates-  Again TrendWare scores a home run because we all thought that the china was real.  The details on these plates were flawless.  Although, these are not microwave- or dishwasher- safe, you certainly don't have to worry about your dinner meeting the floor or your lap.  These are very sturdy and will allow you and your guests to move around with your plates in hand without fear of your plate caving in if you're throwing a less formal shindig. 

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Living Home Christmas Handmade Gift Tags- That cute name card on the napkins is actually a gift tag!  Super cute, right?!  Just slip your folded napkin through the string, write your guests name on the back and you're done.  These are also exclusive to BJ's Wholesale Club.  (Available online)

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Living Home Set of 2 Porcelain Platters- Exclusive to BJ's, these serving platters are both dishwasher- and microwave- safe.  They also have side handles for easy lifting.  You get one large and one medium platter. The large is perfect for your meat (turkey, ham, etc) and the medium is great for holding your desserts or sides (remember that baby spinach?).  (Available online)

Of course, a holiday party or dinner isn't complete without gifts/favors for your guests.  With over 7,500 in each wholesale club, BJ's is guaranteed to have a little something for everyone and for every budget.

Sugar Grove Tapered Nut Tower- Who wouldn't love milk and dark chocolate covered almonds, peanuts, macadamias and cashews?  This tower is exclusive to BJ's and comes pre-wrapped.

Ghirardelli Mug Gift Set (4 count)- One can never have enough mugs.  This is especially true when  said mugs come stuffed with Ghirardelli cocoa and chocolate, Walkers cookies and a peppermint stick.  You can break this set up into four individual gifts or wrap and give as one gift.  The best part is that these are gender neutral.

Satina Cosmetic Brush Set with Case-  I actually received this set my secret santa, My Mommy Brain, the of the Holiday Preview Event and I love it!  It comes with a full-size and travel-size set.  Both have their own storage cases and could easily be broken into two different gifts/favors.  The perfect gift if you're throwing a party for your girlfriends. (Available online)

Lindor Party Favors (6 count)-  That gold box with the bells on it from the tablescape clip earlier we the Lindt Chocolate Lindor Party Favors.  Each box comes with four truffles and they literally melt in your mouth.  If you love rich flavors of chocolate and buttery caramel, then your guests will too.  You could either set these out on the dinner table as part of the decor or line them up on a table by the door to pass out as your guests head home.  

This gift is gender neutral and even a great favor for kids, but be sure to ask their parents if they're allowed to have candy first!  This set is exclusive to BJ's.

Gift Cards-  From Burger King to AMC and Spa Wellness, BJ's Wholesale Club has one of the best selections of gift cards.  I loved that some of these gift cards were sold in three-packs for example for $30 you could get a set of three gift cards and each card will have $10 on it.  Perfect for kids and teenagers as well as adults and your wallet.  Also, be sure to check out their Extreme Value gift cards.  (Available online)

And there you have it folks!  I do recommend that if you live near a BJ's that you go and check them out.  Membership starts at $50 and will pay for itself with all the savings you will rack up.  Also, you guys know that  I have talked a lot on here about giving back and BJ's does a great job of giving back to the community. 

They have grant program for nonprofits, sponsor schools and even participate in Toys for Tots.  Lastly, just a tip for all of my NC readers, if you are a state employee you can log into your SEANC account and get a BJ's Wholesale Club membership at a discounted price!  Be sure to visit them on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on all happenings.  Happy shopping and check out my recap video below and more pictures from trip here!

Do you host or attend holiday parties?  If so, what do you enjoy most about them?

Happy 2014

Source: Studio 404

Happy 2014 Y'all!!  How cute is the graphic above from my fellow BLM Girl, Angel, at Studio 404?  Be sure to check out her blog and show her some love.  She has some incredible freebies and an Etsy shop.  Anyways, I mentioned yesterday that I would be sharing the progress I made with my 2013 resolutions and goals.  Last year was a bit bumpy and rough, but I still managed to accomplish a few things.

In 2013, my resolutions were to:

-Get stronger in my faith and read my Bible daily: I'm happy to say that I accomplished this goal with my Bible 365 Challenge.  I also became a member of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid!

-Workout 3 times a week minimum:  I started off good on this until the end of May.  I was working out almost everyday.

-Cook healthier (sorry fried foods): I did really good on this one. I think fried maybe 20 times last year.  That's really considering I was usually frying something once to three times a week in 2012.

-Travel more and experience new places with the kiddies and Mr:  Sadly, due to the Mr's work schedule, he wasn't able to travel with us.  However, the kiddies and I enjoyed trips to New Orleans, Lake Junaluska and Myrtle Beach last year!

-Secure my dream blog sponsors:  Dealing with JJ's speech issues and the whole move crisis, I dropped the ball on this.  However, I still had some lovely sponsors.

-Attend at least 2 blog conferences: This was a no go too.  The blog conference I was going to attend here in the QC was the same weekend as my sister's wedding and I didn't get a major sponsor to help cover the cost of BlogHer.

-Build up my savings account and family emergency fund:  I was say that this was a little bit of a success.  I definitely started off 2014 with more money in my savings than last year.  But it's hardly enough to be considered an emergency fund.

-Become more present and here in the time I spend with my kids and husband: Again, I think I was present with the kids, but not the Mr.  1 out of 2 isn't bad.

-Publish this novel I've been talking about and do a mini book tour/signing: Still working on the novel.  If wasn't self editing the process would run a lot smoother and faster.  Pretty much I needed to get out of my own head and just write.  I have met some pretty cool independent writers and they have been a wealth of knowledge and help.

-Find an illustrator for my kids book series:  I researched and found that I just didn't have the funds to afford any of the illustrators I wanted.  And I didn't want to just settle anything crappy.  I'm toying with the idea of launching a Kickstarter or GoFundMe campaign to help.

-Buy a new car (I'm not about this one car life anymore):  We got a new car, but sadly we're still living the one car life thanks to those pesky deer.

-Move to a bigger place (We've been cramped long enough):  Sadly, we ended up moving to a smaller place. :(  No worries, another move is coming up.

-Increase my giving back and community service:  I definitely did this.  I volunteered at a charity in my hometown and we gave away a lot to charity when we moved in addition to me giving away JJ's baby furniture to moms from our playgroup.

-Grow YUMMommy:  I've seen growth in the pageviews and seen new faces in the comments.  I've also grown on Twitter, Facebook and Google+.

-Start an online magazine:  Sketched a layout, found a platform and decided on themes, but again with everything this just seemed like it would be a bit much to handle at that moment.

-Revamp my wardrobe: I added a new pieces and gave away some pieces. 

-Stay Team Natural:  Definitely accomplished this.  There were times I wanted to throw in the towel, but I didn't. 

-Do more for myself: Not a complete fail.  I treated myself to nail polish and a new camera this year.

-Build and nourish new friendships:  I can check this off the list with certainty.  Thanks to my new Facebook groups I joined last year, I've met some awesome ladies and am  looking forward to continuing to build a relationship with each of them.

So, there you have it folks.  I didn't do too shabby.  I know it was pretty ambitious trying to accomplish a list this size, but I'm an ambitious person.  And honestly speaking, if we hadn't had all the issues with the move and then the emotional trauma of JJ's delayed speech, I probably would have accomplished more.  But what didn't kill me has made me stronger.

Lessons have been learned.  Connections have been made and I'm ready to make 2014 a knockout year.  I'll be back tomorrow with  my goals, resolution and vision board for this year.  Hope you all a great time ringing in the New Year!

2013 Recap

My Week 52 Bible 365 post will up tomorrow.  I didn't want to post it today since it actually doesn't end until tomorrow.  Today, I'm doing a recap of all the adventures, ups and downs that was tossed our way in 2013.  It's been fun revisiting some of these posts and I hope that you will check them out.  Also, I noticed some posts have comments on them that I thought I had replied but didn't.  So, you might get an email notifying you about a comment I'm just now replying to that's a couple months old.

January

We started out 2013 with a everybody in the house getting sick.  What a way to celebrate the New Year huh?  I also started on one of my New Year's resolution with the introduction of the Bible 365 Challenge.  Most importantly, YUMMommy turned three years old this past January!

February

I got busy in the kitchen and made some savory bbq meatballs for the SuperBowl.  I've made them a few times since then and will probably make them again this upcoming SuperBowl.  I opened up about how both of my maternal grandparents died from complications related to heart disease.  I'm still very passionate about supporting charities that work to help raise awareness for this disease.  And Moo morphed into mini mommy mode with her brother. Seriously, it's still the cutest thing ever!

March

I took a big step and purchased the YUMMommy domain for the blog!  I also got a great head start on my Christmas shopping for Moo at an awesome Spring toy sale at Walmart.  Hoping to be able to catch a good sale after the New Year's and this upcoming Spring too!

April

We did something different this year and made our Easter baskets!  It was a big hit with the kids and will be doing it again this upcoming Easter.  I went to Lake Junaluska for the first time and fell in love!  I'm really aching to go back and would love to live there some day.  I can definitely see the Mr and I growing old there.  Moo got her first pets, but sadly they passed away. 

May

My little guy turned two!  Who knew time would fly by so fast.  My entire family (minus the Mr) and I took a road trip to New Orleans for my older sister's wedding.  Hands down the best trip I have taken in my adult life!  The jokes, fun and family bonding was like no other.  We're trying to plan another trip to New Orleans and I know it's going to be even better.

June

We beat cabin fever and enjoyed a wonderful day at the ImaginOn.  When I say that place is cool, I mean it's sweet!  Ipads, toys, exhibits, workshops and so much more make this library one of best libraries I've ever been to.  It's definitely the best library here in the Queen City!

July

I've always been a fan of crafting and decided to get the kids in on the action too with an Arts & Crafts Bucket List.  Moo and I wasted no time getting started and made homemade playdough hand imprints.  Life started throwing us lemon after lemon starting with our last landlord terminating our lease because he didn't want to make any repairs.  Check out that story here.

August

The Mr asked me to marry him all over again. Needless to say I said yes of course.  Who would turn down the change to have a wedding after eloping?  Life is more complicated and we've been thinking about putting the vow renewal ceremony on hold for another year, but I'll keep you posted in the New Year.

Septmeber

I had pregnancy scare that had me wondering about if there was a right time for us to have a third child and if we were pregnant would be able to handle it with everything that was already going on.  Well, the results came back negative and honestly I was kind of crushed about it.  While we aren't playing to have another baby for a while, I had allowed myself to get my hopes up anyway.  I also bit the bullet and filmed my first vlog!!  Talk about nerve wrecking.

October

Things went south with our current rental, but again God opened up a window to help things workout in our favor.  Won't He do it?!  Life may get hard but I refuse to just stand still and take it.  After the shenanigans that went down with our last landlord, I have learned to take action from the jump start.  I am about my business when it comes to my family, making sure where we stay is in order, my money and my brands.

November

The Mr's work schedule got crazy busy and to avoid missing out on being able to put the Christmas tree up as a family, we put it up after Halloween!  Too early for some, but just right for our family.  We discovered what it was like to live next door to college students and how sometimes it can bring out the inner mean girl in me.

December

This month Moo turned five and I cried again!  I had the pleasure of writing for Kokoa Magazine!  It was a wonderful experience and I look forward to doing it again in the future.  I celebrated my 28th birthday with my loves.  Christmas came and went leaving me with the reminder of all that I had to be thankful for.

Overall, this year has been a year of ups and downs.  However, everything that happened went down for a reason.  I think our bad times have made me stronger, wiser and smarter.  I'm looking forward to taking everything that I've learned into the New Year.  By applying these lessons in 2014, I know that my family and I will be elevated to higher heights and better able to deal with issues as they come our way.

What was the best highlight from your 2013?

Happy New Year

Source: Microsoft Clipart

Happy 2013 YUMMs!!  We made it.  Another year is upon us and I couldn't be more excited.  I've gotten started on my resolutions.   I've started off this year so much more focused than I was last year.  Instead of just making resolutions and setting goals, I'm detailing plans on the steps I need to take to reach them.

Anyways, we rung in the New Year at home.  Last year we ventured out to see the firework show only to be disappointed when it didn't happen.  So, this year I didn't want to waste the gas.  No worries MTV, BET and just about every other major network were airing specials. We flipped from one channel to next until it was time for the ball to drop.

I got New Year's kisses from Moo, JJ and the Mr!  My sister had sent me some adult beverages that I was hoping to enjoy with the Mr, but everybody passed out on me as soon as the fireworks on tv finished.  Of course, I stayed up wishing my extended family members a Happy New Year and then I eventually got tired and called it an early morning.

I did get to catch both of Brandy's performances though before I hit the pillow!  I'm such a huge fan of hers.  Couldn't be happier that she's back putting out good music and she recently got in engaged over the Christmas holiday.  Although, I don't know her personally, just knowing what she's been through on her search for love makes me over the moon excited that she finally has it with her super cute new fiance.

Nothing uber exciting went down when we got up later on this morning.  The kids and I slept in and almost missed the Rose Parade.  Moo was going nuts when she heard that Coco "Roxy" Jones was going to be performing.  She's totally obsessed with Let It Shine.  In fact, we just finished watching that movie for like the  90th time.

I did a little laundry, cleaned up, blogged and cooked dinner followed by a "little baby snack" as my brother would call it.  Hope that you all have had a great start to your 2013!

2012 Recap

2013 is only hours away YUMMs!  And I for one am very excited.  I'm a firm believer that just as each day is a new page to start anew, each year is a new book for you to write.  I can't complain too much because I am a little sad to see this year go.  2012 was a pretty good year for me and YUMMommy.

I started off this year wanting to be a published author and I did that. Pick up a copy of the book if you haven't by the way.  And if you have be sure to leave us a review on Amazon!  Moving along..that really motivated me to get even more serious about following my dreams.  It feels really good to be published somewhere outside of a blog.

And speaking of blogs, YUMMommy turned two this year.  That's a milestone because a lot of the blogs that I started out following have actually closed or been abandoned.  I tell anyone who's interested in starting a blog that you have to be in it for the enjoyment first.  If you're blogging just for FREE stuff or because everybody else is doing it then you'll get burnt out fast.  

The Mr and I celebrated 7 years of being together!  That's a long time for a relationship in today's society.  I'm looking forward to celebrating year 8 in a month and some change.  JJ had his first birthday this year too!  Needless to say it was an emotional day for me because my little prince had crossed over to toddlerhood.

And how can I forget about my feature in JET Magazine?!  It was hands down the best thing to happen to YUMMommy this year!  I was beyond thrilled to be featured in a national publication, especially one that I grew up seeing in my household.  This feature really took my blog from getting a couple hundred page views a month to now getting a couple thousand.

I got a chance to attend my first ever blog conference this past summer.  I had such a blast and got to meet some of my blogging icons!  I was in fan heaven being surrounded by so many other successful bloggers.  I'm forever grateful to Alicia from Mommy Delicious and the lovely folks at Coca Cola for proving me with this wonderful opportunity.  

I found out that sometimes you don't always get what you pay for.  It was a learning experience to always read the fine print and know to not ever trust these big companies.  They will take your money and then screw you over without any explanations whatsoever.

This past October, the East Coast took a beating from Hurricane Sandy.  But before that JJ took one of his scariest spills thanks in his bouncer seat.  November was a little rough because I had to cut some people that I really cared about and loved out of my life.  I didn't talk about too much on the blog but what I will say is that I won't ever stand for being lied on to my face!

I won't ever keep people in my life who will degrade me or my husband to my face and in front of my children with their words.  And most importantly, I will not be surrounding myself with people who when presented with evidence that proves a lie is a lie refuse to accept it and continue going along with the lie.  So, for those reasons my support system lost a few members.

On a happier note, my Moo turned four earlier this month.  Yes, I cried.  It's been beyond words watching her grow.  She's my first born and  in many ways my first true love.  That kid saved me when I was drowning in a place darker than midnight.  She pulled me from the ledge.

I got to see our President get reelected this year.  I also saw what a great set of friends I had.  This past election really revealed some people's true colors.  And let's just say they weren't pretty.

Overall, while I didn't get to do everything I wanted to in 2012, I certainly did a lot of extra stuff that made up for it.  I certainly feel that I am better positioned to reach a higher level of success for 2013.  And I just want to thank each and every one of you for rocking with me and holding me down this year.  It's been humbling and a true blessing.  And because I know that nobody is going to be on the blogs the closer it gets to midnight, I just want to say that wish you nothing but love, joy and abundance in 2013!

© Ikachan | Stock Free Images &Dreamstime Stock Photos

Hello 2012

Can't believe that this is my first post of 2012!  Wow, a new year is officially upon us.  I feel so blessed to be alive and well in 2012 and to have celebrated with my family.

So, how did we ring in the New Year?  Of course, I had to watch New Year's Rockin Eve with Ryan, Jenny and Fergie.  My favorite performances were Pitbull and One Republic.  Contrary to what Jenny McCarthy said, Pitbull killed both of his performances.  

I mean am I the only one who thought she was sipping on some bitter juice halfway through the show?  I don't know but it started to seem like her happiness was forced after they came back from that second commercial break.  And Fergie's blue sparkle mini was so stiff as nails. I don't think she could have sat in that thing. But I loved her makeup.  She always goes for a fresh or natural glam look.

I didn't get to see the ball drop because the Mr thought it would be a good idea to head Uptown and see the fireworks.  Only one problem though.  The Queen City did not do fireworks this year!! BOOOOOO!!!  What kind of crap was that huh?!! 

Disappointed we headed to McDonald's to get a little pick me up snack.  And on the way there we passed by an apartment complex and some of the residents were shooting their own fireworks. Score!!  We got to see some after all.

Then we headed back home and watched movies on Netflix until I passed out around 4 AM.  Yea, I'm paying for that now because the kids seemed to have not been affected by staying up so late but I'm seriously dragging.  Still I'm thankful for how my New Year's ring in turned out. I was with the three people I love the most and that's more than some people had.

2012 is going to be a GREAT year!

How did you ring in the New Year?

So Long 2011, Hello 2012

Wow, it's almost time for 2011 to chuck up the deuces already!  I can't believe this is over.  It went by entirely too quick for me.  I feel like I didn't take enough pictures or write enough journal entries to capture everything.  I'm hoping that 2012 won't go as fast.

All in all though, this has been a great year for me and my family.  I've met new people, created new friendships and learned new things.  Most importantly, I've had the opportunity to share this year with the people I love the most. So, I decided to take cue from Cam over at Bibs & Baubles and a few of my favorite posts to tell the story of my 2011 Year in Review.  Let's get started...

January- We found out that are new addition was going to be a beautiful baby boy!!

February- I reaffirmed my love for the Mr and realized that sometimes friendships fall apart when you have kids or get married. (Sucks, but it's life.)

March- I helped a mom in need and had fun shopping for my little prince!

April- I almost delivered prematurely! (Talk about scary. Oh and our car got totaled. Back to square one.)

May- I gave birth to the most perfect little baby boy!

June- My baby sister graduated high school! (*tears* She grew up so fast. I wasn't ready.)

July- I took time to focus on my dreams.

August- We survived a series of some of the worst hurricanes to hit our area since Hugo.

September- The Mr and I celebrated our FIRST year as a married couple! (Yay, we made it!)

October- I stopped shopping at WalMart!

November- Thanksgiving with my loved ones was a blast!

December- I turned 26! (30, you're getting closer!)

Here's to hoping that 2012 will bring about just as many memories. I hope that everyone has a blessed New Year's!  See ya in 2012 ladies and gents!

Breakfast and A Party

Whelp, Christmas has come and gone!  We had a wonderful time celebrating the birth of our Savior as well as spending time with my family.  The kiddies had an especially awesome time because they were more than showered with gifts this year from Grandma, Unk and the Aunties. We had good food, a little wine and lots of laughs.

However, the partying continues for us as we get ready to ring in the New Year with a FREE breakfast and a party all courtesy of the lovely folks at McDonald's-Charlotte!!  Woot, woot! Yes, our McDonald's is the greatest because they're always trying to stay active in the Queen City.  I also love them because most of the activities they sponsor and host are family related.  This is a huge plus since I'm a mommy of two.

Source

So, this Friday, December 30th from 7-9AM, you can come out and catch us enjoying the unveiling of McDonald's new Apple Cinnamon Walnut Oatmeal at Wells Plaza in the 300 block of S Tryon.  McDonald's will be rolling out this new addition to their breakfast menu sometime in 2012.  This reveal will allow the public to give their feedback on whether or not they want less apple, more walnuts or more cinnamon, less walnuts or they could love it as is.  And of course, for us non-oatmeal lovers, they will have some of their signature breakfast sandwiches along with their Premium Roast coffee and Hot Caramel Mochas.

The free coffee alone is enough to entice to me go.  I mean have you ever had coffee from McDonald's?  It's totally addictive!  But no worries if you can't make the breakfast.  On Saturday, you and the kiddies can check out McDonald's First Night Kids event from noon to 5 PM and get out party on.  We're looking forward to meeting Ronald down at the Convention Center and getting our picture taken with him.  He's a celebrity after all.

Source

I'm really happy to have these extra opportunities to make more memories with my family before 2012 gets here.  The kids are growing up so fast and I'm learning to cherish and take advantage of opportunities like these where there is a little something for everyone.

What are you and your family doing to ring in the New Year?  And will you be trying McDonald's Apple Cinnamon Walnut Oatmeal when it comes out in 2012?






YUMMommy


I was not compensated for this post.  All opinions expressed are my own

My Weekend Wrapup

This weekend it was all about spending time with family. My living uncle and his wife invited us down to the beach to stay in one of their rooms at the Bluegreen Harbour Lights Resort. It was amazing. Friday evening we lounged around and had dinner. I got quite a few stares at my belly. One lady at the restaurant even asked if I was carrying twins. (Don't jinx me.)

This was the first time we would be celebrating the New Year out of town. However, every tradition needs a little spicing up every do often. By nine o'clock I was running low energy. Pregnancy and having a two year old can really take a lot out of you. Thank goodness for a large family. Plenty of future babysitters once baby number two comes. LOL

So my baby sister and I decided we'd rather watch the different ball drops and specials on tv. We also wanted to give my mom some space to hang out with other adults her age. Plus, the beach is a wild place after dark. Just Google bike week and you will see what I mean. Then, you factor in that we had two young kids- Moo and my niece. Yea, it was best to keep them in.

Back the room we decided to watch The Santa Clause 3. I have no idea why but it seemed like a good idea. It put Moo to sleep halfway through. Then I ended up falling asleep ten minutes before the ball drop. Not going to lie, I was disappointed that I couldn't stay awake. Saturday we were off to the grocery store to get those black eye peas. Gotta have those.

I also got more gifts for next Xmas. I know it sounds crazy to be already thinking about Christmas and it just passed.  But by Christmas this year I will have two kids under the age of four tagging along my heels.  And I don't see myself trying to fight my way through a crowded mall or stores.  Dinner Saturday night was awesome.  We all got together in my uncle's suite and ate.

Then I went back to our suite because I was drained.  And I could feel myself getting frustrated.  This pregnancy has my hormones out of whack.  I'm on an up and down rollercoaster all day.  My mom's been noticing and vocalizing her concerns.  I'm seriously glad that I'm going to my doctor Friday and we'll be going over the results of my blood work as well as my ultrasound pics.

Personally, I think this pregnancy has caused an imbalance or is sucking up all my nutrients.  Not looking forward to going back on this Repliva for my anemia.  However, I can't go on flipping on people.  It's so hard to not be in control when it comes to this because I'm such a control freak.  I was in such a crappy mood that I didn't even care enough to pretend to be interested in my mom's purchases from Bath and Body Works.  Luckily she didn't take it personal and even put Moo to sleep for me.  Have mentioned how much I love her?

Sunday morning we enjoyed a great breakfast at Harry's Breakfast Pancakes.  It was a very homey and comfortable restaurant.  We even met Harry, the owner.  He gave Moo and my niece free grits to accompany their meals.  This was great because Moo is a huge grit lover.  She's eats them just about everyday unless we're out or I'm too lazy to make them right.  The hubby has been demoted from grit making duty after he set a bowl of them on fire in the microwave.

Harry (the older man in the left hand pic on their website) is a very nice man.  He sat and told us his story about how his parents brought him and his siblings to America when they were almost teenagers.  He also revealed to us that he's been suffering with cancer for 3 to 5 years now.  Because he didn't go to the doctor right away when he started getting sick they can't be sure how long or when he first got it.  However, he did have one successful surgery and will be starting radiation treatment this month.

He reminded me so much of my uncle Joe.  We have been keeping him in our prayers every night since.  I can't wait to go back and see how the radiation works out.  I truly feel like Uncle Joe was trying to send me a sign.  It's crazy and I can't explain it but I trust my gut.

After leaving the restaurant we went for a walk on the beach.  It was windy and cold as walked down.  Once our feet hit the sand it seemed degrees warmer and the wind even died down a bit.  Moo was thrilled because she loves all things water and sand.  We collected a purse full of great shells.  Since the tide was low we got to dig thru all the shells that were covered by water when we went this summer.

Moo was having a blast. And the salt water did wonders for opening up her sinus.  It was like free nasal spray.  LOL.  And surprisingly I didn't get sick this time.  I've always gotten sick whenever I went to the beach.  Must be the pregnancy.  I enjoyed watching Moo try to chase after the seagulls.

It just amazes me at how much she has grown up.  Honestly, I'm just thankful that she can run and walk.  Last year, we were worried sick about her needing leg braces in order to just be able to take her first steps. Thank goodness for faith because I prayed like crazy.  And here she is a running machine and bubbly ball of fun.

At last it was time for us to leave us leave.  Although, I had a few rough spots and the hubby couldn't make it, but still I wanted to stay a few extra days.  I love being around my family and am sad to be heading back to my own home later on this week.

So, did you go out of town this New Year's weekend?  Where did you go?

Happy 2011

Happy 2011! Yes, another year is upon us. I celebrated the New Year snuggled up with my Moo. I told we would both stay awake to at least see the ball drop on tv. However, being in the comforts of our lovely suite here at the Harbour Lights Resort that I feel asleep 10 minutes before midnight.

And today I have been enjoying my family and thinking about how much better this year is going to be. I honestly haven't made any resolutions. I am just determined to take everything to the next level and get rid of all the negatives. I am in such a different place right now in my life. My struggles from last year have taught me what the important things in life are.

I hope that you all enjoyed bringing in the New Year with your loved ones. Did you make any resolutions for 2011? And how did you bring on the New Year?

Another Year Bites the Dust

Happy New Year's Eve everyone!!  Yay, we have all made it to the end of 2010.  That in and of itself is a great blessing.  I just want to say thank you again to everyone who has stuck with me on this blogging journey.  I've had the chance to make some connections that will last me a life time and then some.

Throughout 2010, I've found myself touch by at least post that each of you have written.  In some way shape or form you all have helped me to become a better person than I was at the start of this year.  I came into 2010 feeling slightly sorry for the hand that I was dealt and frustrated at having to be a single mom.  And now I'm ending this year fearless and married.  I can't be for sure what the future holds for me because I'm not God.

However, I do know that I'm going to continue blogging and continue working hard to better myself.  I'm not going to let people or the negative situations around me deter me from reaching my dreams and goals.  I'm going into 2011 with nothing but love and faith.  And I wish each and every one of you the same!!

See you in 2011!!