tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47445854150339389322024-03-14T03:17:33.079-07:00All Moms Need Balance...Balancing work, family and fun can be tough. So I've created a place where women can share their stories, offer advice, provide motivation, and have a laugh or two with other like-minded working moms. So sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. Welcome! www.kerrieleebrown.comKerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-63965479387465717182012-09-03T09:19:00.000-07:002012-09-03T09:19:45.249-07:00Here We Go Again... Are You Ready?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-kqMfYiQ2d6IQDiOpuwOTcdUkTr2YL1DhFbPEUb24QqC93S7O7BO8ndThNoYVvfWJuEMd2Nw7I47hB_wEF4sBGFtuH83J6TLEV5SHRE-R2zYFLsJAYN4LP3040Wv7pFJxy0-EHDswwXS/s1600/11701218-back-to-school.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-kqMfYiQ2d6IQDiOpuwOTcdUkTr2YL1DhFbPEUb24QqC93S7O7BO8ndThNoYVvfWJuEMd2Nw7I47hB_wEF4sBGFtuH83J6TLEV5SHRE-R2zYFLsJAYN4LP3040Wv7pFJxy0-EHDswwXS/s200/11701218-back-to-school.jpg" width="200" /></a>Seasons change and so do we!<br />
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It's that time of year when the kids are gearing up for school and parents are breathing a sigh of relief - <i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Y</span></b></i><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">ippee</span></b></i> it's back to routines, early nights, sports schedules, and packed lunches!<br />
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Bye bye are weekends at the cottage and hello are classroom prep days, parent-teacher interviews and oh, those much-anticipated P.D. Days. <i>What to do with the kids?....</i><br />
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Oh yes, inevitably the seasons change and so do our lives. I've always loved the Fall... in fact it's my favourite time of year. My son's going into grade three in two days and the little one is still in daycare. It's back to hockey rinks and homework between practices - but we love it and there's nothing better I'd want for my kids.<br />
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So in the spirit of back to school, I wanted to share an article I've written for the brand <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">COLD-FX</span> called <a href="http://cold-fx.ca/en-news-headlines/back-to-school-shopping-tips" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Back-to-School Shopping Tips</span></a> so I urge you to check it out. Hopefully you've already got everything under control but sometimes it's nice to have a little refresher.<br />
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Have fun and stay cool, mom!<br />
<i>~KLB</i>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-31487827380192277742012-07-09T18:53:00.002-07:002012-07-09T18:56:03.790-07:00Is Your Reality in Check?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYw2ZhRIHpK0MWZqxdIjaqoDT1KHQJ71hvIUM7qPiGVrsFKXSTw-EaOoMKH0mYDv_NxfBiKE5t8fz07sHd1_9gNl9hNnp8-uucQbo69RjJWgURgui-xR-6GirkFG9kegU2jDgA_iMghUoi/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYw2ZhRIHpK0MWZqxdIjaqoDT1KHQJ71hvIUM7qPiGVrsFKXSTw-EaOoMKH0mYDv_NxfBiKE5t8fz07sHd1_9gNl9hNnp8-uucQbo69RjJWgURgui-xR-6GirkFG9kegU2jDgA_iMghUoi/s200/images.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Kids are a big job.</span> Lately I’ve been so wrapped up
in my work that it took my 3-year-old to bring me back to reality. They
demand our time, our attention and certainly our love. So the last few months I
have been trying to figure out a way to best balance my home and work life and
I think it’s starting to come together. <i>My new mantra is trust your gut and go with your heart.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">I love my career and my kids – so what's a mom to do? </span><span style="font-family: Times;">Well, I think it’s pretty
obvious that being a mom is my number one priority and therefore my life
choices will reflect this pre-set plan set forth in my life. My <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">passion</span> for work comes into play too, and I'll always be a working mom -- but we need to remain realistic about our priorities. Like every mom out there knows, it's the little people that rule our world, not a pay check.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">A special thank you to my two boys Connor (7) and Brock (3) for
giving me the courage to look inside and see the light. </span>You are my little angels and in the words of <a href="http://www.angeltherapy.com/" target="_blank">Doreen Virtue</a>: "Our children are our teachers, so let them show us the way." So true, you guys are the greatest teachers of all.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">Love you, mom. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">xox</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">P.S. Check out my health and fitness <a href="http://blog.kerrieleebrown.com/" target="_blank">blog</a> for more reflection on how to balance life and be happy. Until next time!</span></div>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-26485957963069444472011-10-07T05:25:00.000-07:002011-10-10T12:14:47.506-07:00No Surprise Social Marketers have their eye on MOMS<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdxnhBPhppcBdP3HypLVuXwsANnoGAWSmf73K4UGm-k9g9mMXrojmtI5UEGKm3CXczU2HJ81kaBRrc68Xf-xKjESi8aU0pIzOQUQd3pr08qbIr9oCzaEzwcuY-qVxDyQ3AZ9_Eal3Bzbz3/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdxnhBPhppcBdP3HypLVuXwsANnoGAWSmf73K4UGm-k9g9mMXrojmtI5UEGKm3CXczU2HJ81kaBRrc68Xf-xKjESi8aU0pIzOQUQd3pr08qbIr9oCzaEzwcuY-qVxDyQ3AZ9_Eal3Bzbz3/s200/images.jpeg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More moms are spending online. <br />
Photo: fotosearch.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #474747; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">With digital access at an all-time high, it's no surprise that social marketers are taking note of who's on the <i>keyboard </i>when it comes to online shopping -- especially with the rise in number of stay-at-home moms, remote jobs, flexible workplaces, and female entrepreneurs working from home offices. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Who do you think are the key $ decision makers these days? You guessed it! Females.</span> </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #474747; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">According to<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;"> Mashable Business</span>: </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Of</span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> the 65% of online adults who use social networking sites, </span></i><a href="http://www.pewinternet.org/~/media/Files/Reports/2011/PIP-SNS-Update-2011.pdf" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #1e598e; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">69% are female</span></i></a><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. Women not only spend </span></i><a href="http://www.comscore.com/Press_Events/Presentations_Whitepapers/2010/Women_on_the_Web_How_Women_are_Shaping_the_Internet" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #1e598e; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">30% more time</span></i></a><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> on these sites than men, but they also have larger networks.</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Wow! Goes to show who's making the household $ decisions :) Check out the full article </span><a href="http://on.mash.to/ngXtMK"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">3 Ways to Reach the Head-of-Household</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. An interesting read! </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~KLB</span></i></span>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-82038741733816618162011-07-07T05:01:00.000-07:002011-07-07T05:08:56.886-07:00Transitioning Back to the Work Force<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5SQh_tjwqM0KhAQUbx69FjqNWc8nOxJJmESJaguJIEIlSVjnB3h0OMm2rhNbUEO9wdm0OjLClOHQKuWcArzkCmzNnDX5667lPJaqf4QIHDhFS6U_RWghPe96FYnyEWMwI_nDbHdv3xUVA/s1600/Stay+at+HOme+MOm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5SQh_tjwqM0KhAQUbx69FjqNWc8nOxJJmESJaguJIEIlSVjnB3h0OMm2rhNbUEO9wdm0OjLClOHQKuWcArzkCmzNnDX5667lPJaqf4QIHDhFS6U_RWghPe96FYnyEWMwI_nDbHdv3xUVA/s200/Stay+at+HOme+MOm.jpg" width="186" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A mom's work is never done<br />
<i>photo Babble.com</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4b4a4a; line-height: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If you're a stay-at-home mom trying to rejoin the workforce, chances are you have lots of questions about the smoothest path back to employment. Whether you're contemplating going back to your old position, looking for something closer to home, or part-time -- career moms have a lot to consider when it comes to balancing their personal and professional lives. I found this interesting video featuring </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4b4a4a; line-height: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Maggie Mistal, a career consultant on </span><a href="http://bit.ly/eD0k7"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Martha Stewart Radio</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, which has good advice for women re-entering the workforce. Most important things to remember -- make sure you transition from the house to office when you're ready, ask for professional development if you feel your skills need a tune-up, and make sure your role is something you're passionate about. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">What's your story? How did you cope with entering back into the rat race? Remember you're not alone! ~KLB</span></i></span>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-39074718899387093762011-06-03T09:45:00.000-07:002011-06-03T10:04:39.498-07:00Only You Can Make Your Dreams Come True<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsW5vU1k5gEbvbH3xSXXtC9ZDCACAefYjIB3e6yqj07uHzaz9kVTWhKfSiTElziFu-rn6RjTt7r-VbTM8Y4Z0Q4RhJpiLiiRkbE8_5yya6hPBuJXFPfrwQ1OjOh_W96-GNf954YBLJAHxf/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsW5vU1k5gEbvbH3xSXXtC9ZDCACAefYjIB3e6yqj07uHzaz9kVTWhKfSiTElziFu-rn6RjTt7r-VbTM8Y4Z0Q4RhJpiLiiRkbE8_5yya6hPBuJXFPfrwQ1OjOh_W96-GNf954YBLJAHxf/s200/images.jpeg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Are you too busy to enjoy life?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>OK I admit I've been slacking in the blog area lately. I apologize! I'm trying to sort things out in my personal and professional life -- it's been a hectic few months. Our family is moving, the kids are crazy-busy with sports, my husband's just launched his new company, work is busier than ever, and I'm trying to fit in yoga classes... I know, I know, that's no excuse -- everyone's got their tale to tell! But hey, I'm back on track now and ready to go-go-go with whatever comes my way! With this in mind I'd like to note that procrastination is not something that comes easy however being the Libra that I am, I do find that indecisiveness sets in once in a while. :-) Agh! So <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">bare with me</span> while I get over this hump and plan my next step! I look forward to sharing some very <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">exciting news</span> with you soon. In the meantime, check out this interesting post by The Lady's Blogger Society <a href="http://bit.ly/mICUgM"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">http://bit.ly/mICUgM</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> </span>Enjoy and stay positive my friends! Only <u>you</u> can make your dreams come true so forge on!! ~ KLBKerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-29365361003199619312011-04-09T11:01:00.000-07:002011-04-09T11:11:38.696-07:00Yes Life Is Stressful, So Manage It!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0wr9iXcPbzdYJkniZ-6Pp9GENMT40mixjPD3aLHpkEd3b90ZW0jVqSewBYhAZK5haPsLTtsYrbs3-5gSS9gu3qpASsA2-UVIks40QoWqTZx0egJrowl0BvnZpalonWfUdve_4l6yM0No2/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0wr9iXcPbzdYJkniZ-6Pp9GENMT40mixjPD3aLHpkEd3b90ZW0jVqSewBYhAZK5haPsLTtsYrbs3-5gSS9gu3qpASsA2-UVIks40QoWqTZx0egJrowl0BvnZpalonWfUdve_4l6yM0No2/s200/images.jpeg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Take control of your life</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font: normal normal normal 12px/18px verdana; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">People ask me all the time why I bother writing this blog, and I simply say because <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">I love writing, I love helping and I love inspiring people</span>. Plus, more than anything, I use it as a place where I can reflect on the things that are going on in my life. Hell, why not? I'm not even sure how many people care but all I know is that as I go through life it's nice to have a place where I can jot down my thoughts and inspirations.<br />
On that note, the last few weeks have been quite stressful at work and as a result, there's been a lot of crazy late nights, really early mornings to the office, and to top it all off, I also found a popped blood vessel in my eye which I heard is stress-related - yuck! Need a vacation.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font: normal normal normal 12px/18px verdana; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Yes, with everything that's going on in the world there's no wonder stress is the number one reason people are not coping in today's society. From natural disasters to bullying, employment rates to family issues -- there's no escaping S-T-R-E-S-S!! But the good news is that even though it may not seem like there’s anything we can do about it -- there is! Nope, the bills aren’t going to stop coming, there will never be more hours in the day, the media will never stop reporting on worldwide disasters, and our demanding responsibilities at work and home will always be the norm... BUT in actual fact you do have<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: blue;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">A LOT MORE CONTROL</span></span> than you might think.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font: normal normal normal 12px/18px verdana; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Managing stress is all about TAKING CHARGE OF YOUR LIFE! Your personal and professional stress triggers are not going away so you have to take charge of <i>them</i> and not let them take charge of <i>you</i>. The first step is to make some positive changes in your life that will help manage life better. Whether it's stress from your job or family, or your lack of social life and personal time... the best advice is to take baby steps to change your behaviour, schedule, environment and/or expectations. Remember, your ULTIMATE GOAL is a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">balanced life </span>with time for work, relationships, relaxation and most of all FUN!!! PEACE ALL ~ KLB</div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font: normal normal normal 12px/18px verdana; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br />
</div>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-49263078202470251312011-03-01T19:10:00.000-08:002011-03-01T19:12:42.970-08:00Practicing What We Preach<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcArUQOktomVU_vsDrDtBQ2rWaSX0m5yvydFAkGDXfi4JDL_pfpagZM5Hsz3G1SW8jZ8v5QLbYWHo6883dBWvpD1G8tDT4LrVp0VDCyFx8rfUguCSnBVSbXIqwFYfTIff4zzwrmMMfzPBH/s1600/130054975.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcArUQOktomVU_vsDrDtBQ2rWaSX0m5yvydFAkGDXfi4JDL_pfpagZM5Hsz3G1SW8jZ8v5QLbYWHo6883dBWvpD1G8tDT4LrVp0VDCyFx8rfUguCSnBVSbXIqwFYfTIff4zzwrmMMfzPBH/s200/130054975.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Cherish every moment</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For those who may be expecting your first child, have young ones in school, or plan to start a family in the near future, remember there's something to be said about setting a good example on the home front. No matter how busy we are there's </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">no excuse</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> for taking your stress out on your kids or significant other. Life's way too short! When you get home from the office, turn off the computers and cell phones, and spend some quality time with your loved ones. Most of us only have an hour or two after making our way home before it's time to hit the sack so </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">cherish every moment </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">and know that today's unfinished work will always be there tomorrow. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Tonight I came across a great article while researching influential mommy blogs that reinforced this notion. Check out this post by Dr. Christine Carter: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/christine-carter-phd/happy-marriage-happy-kids_b_828370.html">http://huff.to/dLIjtf </a> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">***Ladies, are</span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> you</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> raising happiness at home? </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~KLB</span></i></span>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-65051319933118502582011-02-20T10:22:00.000-08:002011-02-20T10:27:49.408-08:00Don't try to be Superwoman<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnMxqCiOdPwIR-1SGInb4mr6Eu8CAPnRzTXoaKdxiq82kS-v5nwiW5BrcwjyGAEtZNr03O02fzZrHTL5Qn7J8J-V0WY1DObfHq4aDHWsBjlTlRoS7sbbICt7rvPokUsmlfi35Ape6mDD-F/s1600/BCP610-31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnMxqCiOdPwIR-1SGInb4mr6Eu8CAPnRzTXoaKdxiq82kS-v5nwiW5BrcwjyGAEtZNr03O02fzZrHTL5Qn7J8J-V0WY1DObfHq4aDHWsBjlTlRoS7sbbICt7rvPokUsmlfi35Ape6mDD-F/s1600/BCP610-31.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't let life get you down</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Are you stressed? Overwhelmed? Most women are. Whether you’re a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">stay-at-home mom</span>, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">careerist </span>or <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">newlywed</span>, life is going to throw you curveballs and overwhelm you every once in a while ... guaranteed. That’s life. My problem? I’m a people-pleaser. As a communications professional, wife and mother of two, it’s not an easy job. So I try to take my own advice that I give to other women ... Stop trying to be superwoman. <b>The truth is that</b> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">everyone around you already thinks you are a superwoman!! </span>So calm down and don’t put the extra <i>weight </i>on your shoulders when it’s unnecessary. Excuse the pun. Whether you're stressed because of work, your spouse, your kids or your weight -- I urge you to slow down. Here are some tips on how to avoid stress and even worse, depression:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">•</span><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Be organized and prepared<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">•</span><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Make time for fun<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">•</span><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Make time for relaxing<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">•</span><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Exercise<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">•</span><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Eat healthy foods<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">•</span><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Stay positive<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">•</span><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Go to sleep at a regular time<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">•</span><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Plan your time ahead<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">•</span><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Be around people who make you feel happy<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">•</span><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Be around people who you can talk to about your feelings<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">•</span><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Stay away from people or situations that make you feel stressed<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Hey ladies, how do you relieve stress??</span> ~KLB</i></span><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-8899733967984371542011-02-14T10:41:00.000-08:002011-02-14T10:42:04.644-08:00Make Every Day Special!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSihbU-RMSBvZn3n__tNsIEKeLgXp_qJyP9tVViOZF-2lMBiGEJUqXwJ_JvKNBXBlPHkBFCys24yBrcWKoYO_cZ-xp0Lw1zatXjpeNyMZheTxap8GFgQ9p4IVKcDivm72gumZ5SwlT6x_/s1600/heartface.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSihbU-RMSBvZn3n__tNsIEKeLgXp_qJyP9tVViOZF-2lMBiGEJUqXwJ_JvKNBXBlPHkBFCys24yBrcWKoYO_cZ-xp0Lw1zatXjpeNyMZheTxap8GFgQ9p4IVKcDivm72gumZ5SwlT6x_/s200/heartface.gif" width="179" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What are your plans this </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Valentine's Day</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">? Are you spending time with your partner or your kids, or both? Tonight I'll be at the hockey rink for my son Connor's game ...and that's OK by me. As I've gotten older I've come to realize that one day a year to spend special time with your loved ones isn't good enough. I say we put in a little effort each day to make them special -- whether it's a kiss in the morning before work, a special treat in their lunchbox, or simply saying 'I love you' before bed. This is what it's all about. Now don't get me wrong, I <i>love</i> to receive flowers or chocolates on February 14th, but why should this happen only once a year? :~) If you have kids here's a cool site with some suggestions on how to make </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">special memories with your kids</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> this Valentine's Day: <a href="http://cascade.patch.com/articles/make-memories-with-the-kids-this-valentines-day">http://cascade.patch.com/articles/make-memories-with-the-kids-this-valentines-day</a> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Happy Valentine's Day everyone!</span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> ~ KLB</span></i>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-18724512027731675332011-02-08T05:54:00.000-08:002011-02-08T05:54:15.700-08:00Canadian kids need more physical activity<!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div style="text-align: left;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWEOS1T5wd20QQ-5yrPjMVmk3wYBMdCJEvRlWrA1PTDY8vA0YC6ic1aBjJa9RfSdWtf0Z6dBhcKaLm2BZbnhgMV_plZVarCoF3Y_-skjnEGXPvf9Oj9hNmDw_WE8CjxUpCW4sPMqSHC7P/s1600/IMG_0254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWEOS1T5wd20QQ-5yrPjMVmk3wYBMdCJEvRlWrA1PTDY8vA0YC6ic1aBjJa9RfSdWtf0Z6dBhcKaLm2BZbnhgMV_plZVarCoF3Y_-skjnEGXPvf9Oj9hNmDw_WE8CjxUpCW4sPMqSHC7P/s200/IMG_0254.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Are your kids getting outside?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Fewer than <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">one in 10</span> young people, and only 10% of Canadians as a whole, get enough exercise, according to Statistics Canada. The study comes after national guidelines for physical activity were actually lowered to make it easier for people to meet exercise goals. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">How are you helping your kids exercise? </span>~KLB</i></span></div><!--EndFragment-->Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-69899483615324587022011-02-07T05:32:00.000-08:002011-02-07T05:41:57.499-08:00Count Your Blessings<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sometimes we fail to see</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">success in the little things in life</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. Everyday rou</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">tine</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> can seem well, </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">very routine</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, but hey isn't that part of life? Personally, I find Monday mornings extra tough (try getting a 6-year-old out of bed who loves his sleep waaaaay too much). Be thankful for what you have and the fact that your kids go to a good school, and you have a good job, and you have a family to work hard for. Here's a little inspirational quote for those of you who feel their days all seem to blend together as in the mundane. I say count your blessings and have a wonderful Monday! </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~KLB </span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"In the hopes of reaching the moon men fail to see the flowers that blossom at their feet." </span></span></i><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> ~ Albert Schweitzer</span></span></i></b>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-68525305237952110882011-02-04T05:24:00.000-08:002011-02-04T05:30:44.870-08:00Are You Happy ... Enough?<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Gretchen Rubin, a former lawyer-turned writer, wanted to be happier so she devoted a year to testing strategies from sources as varied as Oprah to Plato. This <span style="color: red;">mother-of-two</span> started reading every self-help book she could get her hands on and after outlining a roster of resolutions for a year she developed a bestselling book in no time. Everything from cleaning her closet to being kinder to her husband and starting a children’s lit<span style="color: red;"> <span style="color: black;">club ~ Rubin was determined to get happier. And she did. Rubin continues her project online at </span><a href="http://www.happiness-project.com/">www.happiness-project.com</a></span>. <i><span style="color: red;">What are you doing to be happier this year?</span> ~KLB</i></span></span>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-76787700368875771852011-02-01T17:59:00.000-08:002011-02-01T18:03:49.808-08:00What makes me tick - 'da boyz!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVi0VCocL9uurV3OhVlcCbDpVt1IPzfDjr3eAjUn5rF8VR4zROs8doBOER5god4YXDKruy27EE6QPL6_6GVm8W3FTshL7c_1qlQjjpXxF-ZfW5iWbBabKdGUao4qFSvB2KqYv2SlrwI5iU/s1600/IMG_0532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVi0VCocL9uurV3OhVlcCbDpVt1IPzfDjr3eAjUn5rF8VR4zROs8doBOER5god4YXDKruy27EE6QPL6_6GVm8W3FTshL7c_1qlQjjpXxF-ZfW5iWbBabKdGUao4qFSvB2KqYv2SlrwI5iU/s200/IMG_0532.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What makes your life special?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 19.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt 36.0pt; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My boys are 6.5 and 1.5 years old.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> They’re awesome</span>. Already showing signs of becoming a pro athlete and famous musician (as per my husband lol) we are very fortunate that they are both happy and healthy. Being a mom is one of the most amazing things that has ever happened to me. The ironic thing, however, is that growing up I never aspired to be a mama. I've always <i>liked</i> kids and I was a babysitter in my teens, but I was always focused on my career after university, not having a family of my own. Don't get me wrong I am a family-oriented person and very close to my parents and sister, but I never dreamed of producing offspring. Or at least the thought never crossed my mind until I turned 30. All that changed when I had my first son Connor in 2004, and re-affirmed again when Brock came along almost two years ago. Ever since my boys came into my life, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">I’ve changed.</span> I now truly understand the importance of a mom’s affection for her babies and the term "motherly love." Being a mom has made me appreciate my own mom more too. So I guess this is my little tribute to all moms out there for their hard work and dedication to their families. Without you (us) our kids would not know how strong a mother’s love/bond is in life. Even if they don’t realize it until they’re older…<i> much love ~KLB</i></span><o:p></o:p></div>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-27051002585402391902011-01-24T18:42:00.000-08:002011-01-24T18:48:29.372-08:00How techy are you?I must admit I'm<i> not </i>the most <span style="color: blue;">savvy cyberspace person</span> to venture into the blogging world (but hey, I never claimed to be). However I am trying. After all isn't "connecting" with others who are in similar situations as you, or those who can at least relate, the reason we reach out in the first place? Maybe, maybe not. But either way, I just think it's crazy that my son (who's six) knows what the terms "Google" "e-mail" "Facebook" and even "iPod" mean and it simply blows my mind! Well, it has made me perhaps a little more savvy -- or at least aware of what I'm up against. Who knows. I can't wait to see what I'm going to have to learn in order to communicate with him when he's in his teens. Gawd help me... <i>~ KLB</i>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-91581543192047427872011-01-18T19:32:00.000-08:002011-01-18T19:39:56.042-08:00Mommywood trials & tribulations<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKaGwchVtjuWVONeoa7QzRlWhyqxcUUZ-_vxgvhak5-jShx2pBvrTtmkANXHOjOAeyE9Z55K9UXmYqDrMGQZFT-WH9jsW9Gzh2s0UVVJ13DLtUHHj3vqcqeN_uvjBYOGaMqaH-gsCdHMcz/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKaGwchVtjuWVONeoa7QzRlWhyqxcUUZ-_vxgvhak5-jShx2pBvrTtmkANXHOjOAeyE9Z55K9UXmYqDrMGQZFT-WH9jsW9Gzh2s0UVVJ13DLtUHHj3vqcqeN_uvjBYOGaMqaH-gsCdHMcz/s200/images.jpeg" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebs have to balance too</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">A friend of mine passed along a great blog by actress Gwyneth Paltrow ~ thanks Lisa :) It's called <a href="http://goop.com/" style="color: blue;">GOOP</a><span style="color: blue;"> </span>(GP's blog that is). This particular entry is about finding "good balance between having a career and being a mom." BINGO! Find out how Gwyneth and a few of her famous friends juggle their busy careers and being a mom too. Hey if they can do it, so can we! </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">Turns out some celebs are real people too... what do you think? Check out: </span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.goop.com/?page=newsletter_vn&id=most_recent"> http://www.goop.com/?page=newsletter_vn&id=most_recent</a><span style="color: blue;"> </span><i> </i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i>How do you feel about celebrities airing their trials and tribulations of being a mommy? Do they measure up? ~ KLB</i></span>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-75569576722967830502011-01-03T08:04:00.000-08:002011-01-03T08:15:43.873-08:00Don't forget about YOUR adult time!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjge7A-NnJwT4KWjzqDQBAKjvFf0Qf3dXyLG_7dZZQOWD-ms9DlV1PJqXI0vGHuOTUy2PCLNoaiX5Jd2wY6ufz0nhIZc0dh9iN4EAHLtQJaN0Wj9sPb2gBt2mRg9Ro22FVBHAckkin0cy7a/s1600/r153637_551512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjge7A-NnJwT4KWjzqDQBAKjvFf0Qf3dXyLG_7dZZQOWD-ms9DlV1PJqXI0vGHuOTUy2PCLNoaiX5Jd2wY6ufz0nhIZc0dh9iN4EAHLtQJaN0Wj9sPb2gBt2mRg9Ro22FVBHAckkin0cy7a/s200/r153637_551512.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keep the romance alive</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">How many times have you heard from<i> your parents </i>that couples nowadays give up way too easy? The story seems all too familiar... the next step after engagement is marriage, then kids (or other way around) ... then divorce. Now I'm not saying that there are some relationships that don't deserve to break up (I've heard some horror stories), but I'm here to say that if you're with someone you love (and you're married to him/her or just dating) then make sure to keep the spark going! Life goes by <span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;">way</span> too fast not to cherish every moment. Plus your kids will notice your positive relationship (don't they say lead by example?) and after all, when the kids leave home it'll just be the two of you.... so have fun! Here are some habits of healthy, happy couples: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #393024;"><a href="http://ca.shine.yahoo.com/love-sex/5-habits-of-the-happiest-couples-i-know-blog-5-goodhousekeeping.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">http://ca.shine.yahoo.com/love-sex/5-habits-of-the-happiest-couples-i-know-blog-5-goodhousekeeping.html</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Remember, it's im</span>portant to be happy in all areas of life -- even with the kids running around and busy day jobs. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">What </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">are you doing to make your relationship a priority this year?</span><i> ~ KLB</i></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #393024; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-86884116487717390622010-12-31T13:00:00.000-08:002010-12-31T21:42:58.310-08:00The Best is Yet to Come in 2011<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlR3QoIYQrYzWlt8U2xdR5JJF2sDCqWmCMBJgGU9TeA5zhlZVaUgLR6rsz-pw0mb7HMOwwFA13BSGC2amEnt9MyUKiLHs29C2PXhFHzlQcekq-Y794LKVCK3PTgGihzA9rGucCPbj86ng/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlR3QoIYQrYzWlt8U2xdR5JJF2sDCqWmCMBJgGU9TeA5zhlZVaUgLR6rsz-pw0mb7HMOwwFA13BSGC2amEnt9MyUKiLHs29C2PXhFHzlQcekq-Y794LKVCK3PTgGihzA9rGucCPbj86ng/s200/images.jpeg" width="199" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoy your celebrations!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Festivities are coming to an end, decorations are starting to come down and the kids are back to school soon … ahhh the week after Christmas … a time of relaxation, regrouping and rejuvenating. With the New Year around the corner it's the perfect time to reflect on the year that's past and look forward to all the great things to come. This time I’m going to keep my New Year’s resolutions too! Top of my list: Finally get to a hot yoga class (I've been trying for months!) and stick to my workout regimen (already started ... slowly). The biggest excuse ever is that there's no time with kids, career and everything else in life. But I have a feeling that this is going to be a year of new beginnings... I'm very excited. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Happy New Year to you and yours! Be safe. </span><i>~ KLB</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-84597043734583850662010-12-20T18:10:00.000-08:002010-12-20T18:14:30.572-08:00It's time to focus on family<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0CCwD7bclBO-Ez1Gg_37xA0JMlEYRTNAoWtemhNs74MNbSwfJeXd5i-aAK9CJNxGTcBl6cSdRoS_sG8wmTq5pG_suFQbIMX7EEscMVGGsO4w65YQomB-R_Kt4-jA1vG2dvO5cMmV85UaC/s1600/k2590301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0CCwD7bclBO-Ez1Gg_37xA0JMlEYRTNAoWtemhNs74MNbSwfJeXd5i-aAK9CJNxGTcBl6cSdRoS_sG8wmTq5pG_suFQbIMX7EEscMVGGsO4w65YQomB-R_Kt4-jA1vG2dvO5cMmV85UaC/s200/k2590301.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't let the season pass you by.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">'Tis the season to be merry .... or is it?</span> For most of us it's a time of running around getting last-minute gifts, sending over-priced Xmas cards, figuring out what to get grandma (because she has everything) and fighting traffic at the malls. Sound fun? No matter who you are and what traditions you hold ~ if you've got a full-time job <i>and</i> kids it can get crazy.<br />
I decided to cut down on printed holiday cards this year. Not only to save some trees but with the convenience of social media outlets such as Facebook I can say hello to friends and family in one shot. Easy. Yes I'll admit this might seem lazy but Christmas seems to have crept up this year and with only five nights until the big man in <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">red </span>comes, I better get crackin' with gifts to wrap and trees to trim. I've always loved this time of year! I just wish it wasn't flying by without a moment to think about the true meaning of the season. So from me to you, when it's time to shut off the computer and say good-bye to the office for the holiday, just do it. You won't regret it. Happy Holidays! <i>~KLB</i>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-19806291908835113162010-12-13T19:28:00.000-08:002010-12-14T18:47:12.804-08:00Exercise balances you inside and out<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzA0V4uujBLPyR35s_1U_UTwdgzdredqZ3OE5yOjE9EOP-67NnaiFTtQ16qTk6kJaDiO7Y15cxS_Zxw59ATYkkaXwJQEHu8dVVmPC9zQbqPdbjydNwzG5JTx97RB1YmRbdJIrTswWmmO5W/s1600/images-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzA0V4uujBLPyR35s_1U_UTwdgzdredqZ3OE5yOjE9EOP-67NnaiFTtQ16qTk6kJaDiO7Y15cxS_Zxw59ATYkkaXwJQEHu8dVVmPC9zQbqPdbjydNwzG5JTx97RB1YmRbdJIrTswWmmO5W/s200/images-1.jpeg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exercise is essential to a good life.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You'd think that because I've worked in the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">health and fitness industry</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> for over 10 years now that I'd be full-on into my workout routine 24-7. Well, think again. I find it tough to fit in too! After changing career paths, changing houses, two kids, and a killer commute to the city everyday, I'll admit my training regimen hasn't been up to snuff lately. So my husband and I have recently agreed to jump right in ~ there's no time like the present, right? We're not waiting for our New Year's resolutions to start. Why wait? Here are some tips to help you get in the swing of things too, good luck!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1. Stop procrastinating! Working out and eating healthy are essentials to a good life. If anything else, do it for your kids or they'll always have more energy than you.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2. Find a workout partner. If you're flying solo, no problem! Take up a Yoga or Pilates class with a friend or go for a fast walk three times a week with a neighbour.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">3. Set a specific time to work out and stick to it. After the kids are in bed, after the lunches are made, after homework is done, after you've checked your email. Instead of watching the finals of your favourite reality show, DVR it and watch another time. Believe me, you'll probably lose interest anyways which means more time to exercise. Hey, there really are no excuses so get moving! ~</span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> KLB</span></i><span style="font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-17710588281175640562010-12-09T19:12:00.000-08:002010-12-11T20:38:39.589-08:00Working women: Just the facts, ma'amToday working women are a driving force in our country's economic recovery. Some interesting facts courtesy of <i>The Women's Enterprise Centre, 2010</i>:<br />
> Women contribute over <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">$18 billion</span> annually to the Canadian economy<br />
> Women make up a larger share of the self-employed than any other country<br />
> There are more than 821,000 women <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">entrepreneurs</span> in Canada<br />
So remember if you're a working mom who wonders if you're making a contribution outside of the home, well you are... in more ways than one. <i>~KLB</i><br />
<i><br />
</i>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-77985779623394762912010-12-06T19:04:00.000-08:002010-12-13T19:33:30.678-08:00The Perfect Gift ~ Custom Creations<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHbkTlUgXAKnoJRfG-uy1OYNkMadxuUEfYahgxCJcr8why40Pebiu-8iluce7qMxQpkcCxbhAn4AJnGQ1LdxFPIjgzqMDnDsQiDD6NRaIsZ4n2pjcsJXztmMTtkAFHv3K0nNAgM7YMoSwl/s1600/Jewellery+023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHbkTlUgXAKnoJRfG-uy1OYNkMadxuUEfYahgxCJcr8why40Pebiu-8iluce7qMxQpkcCxbhAn4AJnGQ1LdxFPIjgzqMDnDsQiDD6NRaIsZ4n2pjcsJXztmMTtkAFHv3K0nNAgM7YMoSwl/s200/Jewellery+023.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swag Barn creations by Caren Brown</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Talk about innovative ladies ~ my sis has been making jewellery for a while now and she loves it! What started out as a nighttime hobby has now turned into a small business of Christmas craft sales and home parties. If I do say so myself, she is extremely talented and her designs rock! With the holiday season upon us, homemade gifts are the perfect idea for that special friend, grandma, mom or daughter.<br />
Check out Caren Brown's jewellery-making blog at <a href="http://www.swagbarn.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">www.swagbarn.blogspot.com</span></a> for some cool, custom creations. She's also now doing <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">girls' birthday parties ages 6-12!</span> What fun! Now if only I had girls... <i>~KLB</i>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-30397788999472720732010-12-03T19:49:00.000-08:002010-12-03T19:59:52.120-08:00Yo Mama, it's that time of year again<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7I2ffIaEirHgbdo7UEbsWNk83LQ2HUmqCGOqsHWCjoceuJrS3Xe6BfQwuXwJnO2RoyilBYzdblco9O0NtLzH03uCA2c1HI0wiLkrDRMcde1HxdpNb64NoIbMP0H-7aeGT5um4pG0LBY73/s1600/NAT_nov29_yoyo10_HGG_210-174px.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7I2ffIaEirHgbdo7UEbsWNk83LQ2HUmqCGOqsHWCjoceuJrS3Xe6BfQwuXwJnO2RoyilBYzdblco9O0NtLzH03uCA2c1HI0wiLkrDRMcde1HxdpNb64NoIbMP0H-7aeGT5um4pG0LBY73/s200/NAT_nov29_yoyo10_HGG_210-174px.jpg" width="165" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The holidays can be hectic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Ever feel like a yo-yo? Back and forth to hockey games... to birthday parties... to play dates... to the park? No matter what time of year, moms (and dads) are always on the go. After all, it <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">comes with the job description</span>. :~)<br />
So there's no surprise that with the holiday season upon us there's even more excitement in and around the household... at school... the office... and in the malls. Hey, wouldn't it be nice to have a stress-free December? Here's an idea Mrs. Claus, perhaps instead of a million little toys for the boys this year, why not pick up one big gift and spend the rest of your efforts on their stockings? Or better yet, plan a special outing for everyone to the science centre, ice skating, or to a movie to replace a bunch of prezzies. This way not only will you be spending more time as a family, but you can pick the day that works best for your schedule, and you'll have less wrapping! <i>Ta-da!</i> Here's a nice little website with some neat gift ideas and thoughts on how to kick it up a notch with the family this season <span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><a href="http://yoyomama.ca/">yoyomama</a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><a href="http://yoyomama.ca/">.ca</a>.</span></span> <i>~KLB</i>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-41344177480606404482010-12-01T20:38:00.000-08:002010-12-01T20:40:19.450-08:00Balancing the Mother Load<span style="color: #393024; font-family: Georgia;">When I started this blog, a friend of mine recommended that I check out a site called <a href="http://www.balance-the-mother-load.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Balance the Mother Load</span></a>. For those of you who feel like you’re in a rut and need someone to speak to who isn’t in your immediate circle of friends, family or the local mother-goose club, </span><span style="color: #393024; font-family: Georgia;">Carly Cooper is a Life Coach for “ambitious, high-achieving working moms.” Whether you want to chat on the phone, online, or join the </span><span style="font-family: Georgia;"><a href="http://www.meetup.com/The-Ambitious-Working-Moms-Meetup/?a=shareimg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Ambitious Working Moms Meetup</span></a></span><span style="color: #393024; font-family: Georgia;"> group, this busy lady can help you become the master of your own unique mama plan. It's wonderful to see so many ambitious moms out there following their passions and helping others do the same. :) <i>~KLB</i></span>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-71397218591650130722010-11-23T20:46:00.001-08:002010-12-01T20:42:10.638-08:00What is Your Guilt Factor?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: ArialMT, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 13pt;">H</span><span style="font-family: ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">ey ladies, let's be honest... if you’re a mother you most likely </span><span style="-webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-color: yellow; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; color: #de1b24;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">feel guilty</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> about something. If you’re a working mom, like me, you most likely feel guilty</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="-webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; color: #de1b24;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">almost all the</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">time</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I know I feel it when I have to work late or when I’m rushing the kids to bed after only being with them for a short time during the evening. Or on the weekends, I feel bad because I’m already thinking about what’s coming up the next work/school week, or the flip side, when I'm smothering them to death. What’s wrong with us? We feel bad when we’re with them </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">and </span></i></span><span style="font-family: ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">bad when we’re not. And how come celebrity moms make it look so easy?</span></span><span style="font-family: Times-Roman;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If you’re struggling with what’s expected of moms today ~ and what’s supposed to help you rear the best possible kids ever, you’re not alone! Check out this article entitled <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704462704575590603553674296.html?mod=wsj_share_facebook"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Mother Madness</span></a> recently published in </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The Wall Street Journal</span><span style="color: #1d1d1d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">.</span></span></i></span><span style="font-family: Times-Roman;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: ArialMT;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">My fave quote by writer Erica Jong:</span></i></span><span style="font-family: ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> “As long as women remain the gender most responsible for children, we are the ones who have the most to lose by accepting the ‘noble savage’ view of parenting, with its ideals of attachment and naturalness. We need to be released from guilt about our children, not further bound by it. We need someone to say: Do the best you can. There are no rules.” </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">~KLB</span></i></span><span style="font-family: Times-Roman;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #391d76; font-family: ArialMT;"><br />
</span></div></div></div>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4744585415033938932.post-54879353909654579972010-11-21T09:43:00.000-08:002010-11-21T09:52:14.097-08:00Not a cook, but here's a yummy recipe!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqcU5nSg_s1bDH5MBGDUzQ91K7OZposJLfX6ocrZdhjaEKtC32cCAzXThkT1dwvs2IUMDEeEoUsEJmzDxRRu4YFJHJyH53eoVmKQtQ3FCh0CEEcrd4RCcau84l1AJd4rTvdvxNRnupcmHg/s1600/43094cfd-d569-4fc2-ad3c-73efd8219ff4.Large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqcU5nSg_s1bDH5MBGDUzQ91K7OZposJLfX6ocrZdhjaEKtC32cCAzXThkT1dwvs2IUMDEeEoUsEJmzDxRRu4YFJHJyH53eoVmKQtQ3FCh0CEEcrd4RCcau84l1AJd4rTvdvxNRnupcmHg/s200/43094cfd-d569-4fc2-ad3c-73efd8219ff4.Large.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">If there's one thing I'm </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">not ...</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">it's a cook!</span></span> Yep I'll admit it, I can survive on the few things I can prepare, but if truth be known, it definitely wasn't my skills in the kitchen that landed a marriage proposal (despite that old saying<i> "a way to a man's heart is through his stomach</i>"). But for those busy moms who don't have the patience or time to take Martha Stewart classes, luckily there are <span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;">many</span> wonderful websites and lady bloggers out there who are culinary gifted. Check out this great recipe for <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">Cinnamon-Swirl Coffee Cake</span> from two moms who know what they're doing in the kitchen, just in time for the holiday season. Enjoy! <span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Georgia, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; font-family: Times; font-weight: normal;"><i> </i><a href="http://www.modernmom.com/blogs/sugarmommas/">http://www.modernmom.com/blogs/sugarmommas/</a></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: italic;">Do you have any cool recipes to share? ~ KLB</span>Kerrie Lee Brownhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05134371749153196999noreply@blogger.com1