Guest Post ~ Kathy from Artsy Canvas Girl

Not too long ago, I met Kathy from Artsy Canvas Girl. We met through one of the blog hops we were both participating in. I remember visiting her blog, heading over to her etsy and thinking to myself. "I love this concept! It is such a neat idea and well done, but it isn't something I can afford right now." Well, I commented on her blog as I like to do when I follow someone back - I am not one for "follow me, I will follow you" comments, I like to make meaningful comments, and reach out to the bloggers I find interesting. If they reach back, often time their blogs end up being one of my favorites to check in on from time to time. Kathy was no exception. I had told her how much I loved her stuff and how I one day hoped to be able to have something like that done for my home.

Kathy emailed me back and suggested we try an idea she had been thinking of. She offered to edit one of my pictures in the awesome way that she does, and then allow me to print it through the canvas people. I was super excited. I agreed in exchange (as long as I liked it) to write about it here. And let me tell you - I LOVED it. Her eye for seeing the little things in such a big picture. Her ability to add something extra to a photo.

I know she expected me to send her a family picture, but I had just gotten back from my family trip to Minnesota. I had taken some beautiful pictures (albeit very amateur) of scenery and flowers and such. Little known fact, I like to take pictures of flowers. I do it everywhere I go. And I love the Ralph Waldo Emerson quote "Earth Laughs in Flowers." So I sent her my latest flower picture. I am no photographer, and I have no idea how to photo-shop, so when I saw Kathy had done a post on her blog about my picture, I asked her to send it to me, so I could post it here. I figured it would be the best way to show off her talent. I love what she did to my picture. It really made it into a work of art. When I get the canvas back, I will share more about my experience with Canvas People, and show you how the final product turned out. I really hope you will check out Kathy's work. Who knows - maybe she could give you a one of a kind special memory too!






So a few weeks back, I met the sweetest gal, Emily from Family and Life in Las Vegas. We met through our blogs during a blog hop I participated in. From time to time, I love spending some time seeing what others are doing... and thinking... and sharing! It's really good for the soul and the creativity process. Anyway, Emily stopped by my blog because I had stopped by hers. She had made a comment on my "tutus and trunks post"(still one of my favorite canvases I've created -- beautiful Baby Kendall captured by talented photographer, Vikki from Vikki Dinh Photography). Emily made a comment that the picture was beautiful and that she always wanted to have a picture done on canvas..."maybe one day!" she said. I thought, "There's no time like the present!" when I remembered a posting I saw on Songberries blog about a free 8x10 canvas offer by CanvasPeople. So I told her about this offer I noticed on Songberries blog. I was happy to offer her my services to make this happen. A few weeks later, she sent me the following picture... It was the sweetest picture of flowers! This is my first "nature" project for a client. I was expecting a family picture or the kiddo picture...but instead I got a picture of flowers! How fun!

Original SOOC

Emily's vision was to create a "subway art"-styled canvas with this photo. She wanted words like rejoice, celebrate, love, joy, etc. She also wanted to incorporate a special quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson, "Earth laughs in flowers." I LOVED that quote! So I began working on this really fun project. I always create a few different versions in an effort to match the various personal tastes that varies from person to person. Here are some of the samples I created for this project.

First, I enhanced the color of the photo because I wanted it to have a really full-of-color feel to match the power of the words she requested. Then I selected a color scheme by pulling colors from the photo and began selecting fonts that expressed the words visually to me. Then I added some pretty little sun spots and a soft milky frame to give it a little mystical feel and added some little daisy embellishments in the top corners. I liked the results...

Color-enhanced photo

Then, I wanted to play a little more with the photo. I just started using a trial version of a product called Topaz which has some really cool features to enhance photos. I'd been dying to try it out so I played with their product called Clean Adjust. It allowed me to stylize the photo...

Stylized Photo

Here is a close up of the difference between the color enhanced photo compared to the stylized photo...

Close up of the color-enhanced photo

Closeup of stylized photo

The stylized just added a little more texture and line to the photo. I personally really love this effect for this particular photo.

Then I did another version, a little more of a crisp clean look (knowing that not everyone likes the embellished artsy look.)

Crisp clean version

I sent these versions to Emily to get her feedback. It's a good time in the process to get a better idea of what the client likes (and don't like) and fine tune to the finish product. Emily asked if I could create a lace-like frame. I wanted to see how a closer-in crop of the picture would look like so I created this...

Lace frame with a closer view of the flowers

In the end, Emily chose this version of the photo for the final printing of the canvas... The stylized photo including the really cool quote with the milky frame, sunspots and sweet daisy embellishments. The gallery wrap sides of the canvas will be a dark sky blue that matches to the darker portion of the sky. She sounded thrilled and I gotta tell you that is the best part of what I do!

Emily's pick

Here's my favorite version...pretty much same as Emily's pick but with a closer-in view of the flower!

My pick

Emily promised me a picture of the final canvas when she receives it back from CanvasPeople. I will post it here...I'm hoping it turns out great!!!

What's your favorite version?
Love and blessings,

Kathy - Artsy Canvas Girl
@ArtsyCanvasGirl
Artsy Canvas Girl Facebook
Etsy Shop

Stay tuned to see how the Canvas turned out!

Vegas Headliner ~ Deb @ Lucas's Journey with Sensory Processing Disorder

I met Deb through the blogging world, and when I read her story, I was immediately impressed with how dedicated she is to her family, how upbeat she seems to be, how well she balance's her family time, and most of all how big of an advocate she is for her son's. Not to mention she always has a kind word for everyone. In October she is hosting an Event to raise awareness for Sensory Processing Disorder which her youngest son Lucas has. She has done an ENORMOUS amount of work for this event. She has gotten many many companies to donate giveaways for it, and has spent countless hours putting it together. She is currently 2 sponsors away from a goal she set out, and couldn't be happier to be where she is. If you know anyone who would be willing to help her out in this quest to raise awareness for SPD, drop by her blog and let her know...
I am very honored she wanted to guest post. Please read her wonderful post below.







To find out more about Deb and her family visit her blog, check out her Event Link
or find her on Facebook or Twitter. If you post her Event button on your blog and let her know you did by commenting here, you can have 5 extra entries into both the Barefoot Books Giveaway, and A Blanket Full of Love Giveaway.

Tell me about yourself and your family.

I live in NJ with my husband, my 10 year old son Charlie, and my youngest son, Lucas. Life has been like a tornado since we had Lucas. Our quiet little lives were just turned upside down, inside out, and all the way around! It's calmed down quite a bit but we still have our mountains that we need to climb.

Why do you blog; what made you start?

It's funny, I was out to lunch with my Mother and Mother in-law for a Mothers Day lunch. It was the first time I was out alone since I had Lucas. As I was sitting at the table, it just came into my head, that I needed to blog about our life with Lucas! I didn't know how to do it and I never blogged before so I was a little overwhelmed at first. I had to teach myself everything. I just needed contact with the outside world. I had to find and talk with other parents who were going through what I was with Lucas. I love Lucas but to care for him sometimes is almost like having a weight on your chest so heavy that you just can't breathe. I had to find a way to give myself a break and share about some of the things that were eating me up inside, so that I could let it go, and hopefully find hope in another Mothers story.

Name three things you really like to do?

I love painting ceramics, I love playing with my children, there is no greater joy for me than watching my kids laugh, and I love to shop even though I haven't been able to in a VERY long time.

If you had the opportunity to go back and change something in your past, what would it be, and would you do it?

I would have furthered my education. I had a great job with great pay and thought it would last forever! LOL

I'm older now and every year that goes by makes it harder for me to get back into the work place.

What would you do with a million dollars?

I would buy a house and a car first! I would also be able to give Lucas the additional therapy that he needs and can't do right now. I would buy my older son Charlie every video game that he ever wanted.

What would you like to accomplish in your lifetime?

I would love if every one's efforts to raise awareness for SPD were successful so that it would not be an issue for these children to get the care that they should have anymore. There is no feeling worse than not being able to give your child the care that they need because its not covered by insurance.

Our event is happening right now! We have been taking entries since September 1st for our October giveaways. The only requirement is to help with our mission by placing a button on your blog listed here, http://lucasjourneyspd.blogspot.com/2010/08/get-your-first-official-entry-into-our.html

or by sending a tweet or email to the media contacts that we have listed here. http://lucasjourneyspd.blogspot.com/2010/09/sensational-celebration-media-contacts.html

We just revised the entry form to make it a little easier to enter.

We have received over $2,000 in prizes that were donated to help raise awareness for SPD. This turned into so much more than I ever expected! We've had more of a turnout that I could have imagined but we are still in dire need of help getting our message out to the media.

We are also giving entries for any donations made or badges that are purchased that we have for sale which can be found on any page of our blog on the left hand sidebar. All proceeds will be donated to the SPD foundation's event.


Here is the explanation of what SPD is taken from the SPD foundation:
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About Sensory Processing Disorder (taken from the SPD Foundations site, full explanation can be found at http://www.spdfoundation.net/about-sensory-processing-disorder.html )

Sensory processing (sometimes called "sensory integration" or SI) is a term that refers to the way the nervous system receives messages from the senses and turns them into appropriate motor and behavioral responses. Whether you are biting into a hamburger, riding a bicycle, or reading a book, your successful completion of the activity requires processing sensation or "sensory integration."

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD, formerly known as "sensory integration dysfunction") is a condition that exists when sensory signals don't get organized into appropriate responsesPioneering occupational therapist and neuroscientist A. Jean Ayres, PhD, likened SPD to a neurological "traffic jam" that prevents certain parts of the brain from receiving the information needed to interpret sensory information correctly. A person with SPD finds it difficult to process and act upon information received through the senses, which creates challenges in performing countless everyday tasks. Motor clumsiness, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, school failure, and other impacts may result if the disorder is not treated effectively.

Symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder, like those of most disorders, occur within a broad spectrum of severity. While most of us have occasional difficulties processing sensory information, for children and adults with SPD, these difficulties are chronic, and they disrupt everyday life.

What Sensory Processing Disorder looks like

Sensory Processing Disorder can affect people in only one sense–for example, just touch or just sight or just movement–or in multiple senses. One person with SPD may over-respond to sensation and find clothing, physical contact, light, sound, food, or other sensory input to be unbearable. Another might under-respond and show little or no reaction to stimulation, even pain or extreme hot and cold. In children whose sensory processing of messages from the muscles and joints is impaired, posture and motor skills can be affected. These are the "floppy babies" who worry new parents and the kids who get called "klutz" and "spaz" on the playground. Still other children exhibit an appetite for sensation that is in perpetual overdrive. These kids often are misdiagnosed - and inappropriately medicated - for ADHD.

Sensory Processing Disorder is most commonly diagnosed in children, but people who reach adulthood without treatment also experience symptoms and continue to be affected by their inability to accurately and appropriately interpret sensory messages.

These "sensational adults" may have difficulty performing routines and activities involved in work, close relationships, and recreation. Because adults with SPD have struggled for most of their lives, they may also experience depression, underachievement, social isolation, and/or other secondary effects.

Sadly, misdiagnosis is common because many health care professionals are not trained to recognize sensory issues. The Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation is dedicated to researching these issues, educating the public and professionals about their symptoms and treatment, and advocating for those who live with Sensory Processing Disorder and sensory challenges associated with other conditions.

Daily Vegas ~ I think I am a chicken, and I am definetly missing my head!!

So there are a million and 8 things that I need to get done today, and not nearly enough time to do it. Add to that a Squishy boy who is oddly crabby today, and seems to think my foot is his new lovey, and it seems like it will be nearly impossible for me to get things done today! (no seriously he keeps coming up and cuddling with my right foot. He lays down with it, hugs it, and smiles at me... weird huh?!)

Some major highlights -
I am Guest Blogging today by Kim at Chubby Cheeks Thinks! She is so sweet to have me, and the inspiration behind me having guest post while I was on vacation. If you have a moment, head over to her blog, and check out my random ramblings!! Thank you so much for having me. Such an honor.

It is less than 4 hours til Blogmania goes live!! Family and Life in Las Vegas has secured over $500 in giveaways for you to have a chance to win! Including a $100 prize pack filled with Goodies from EcoMom, an ERGOBaby carrier of your choice(<$100), a $30 GC to FlutterBaby Gifts, a Microwavable Heating Pad Package from Cornwarmerz, 10 $10 GCs to Bethie Boos Tutus, and a new sponsor, Kidtoons with a Barbie Prize Package valued at $65. With 169 blogs participating and close to $38,000 in giveaway prizes this is NOT an event you will want to miss! You still have 4 hours left to get your extra entries in. I hope you stop by in the next two days and enter. Seriously this will be one of the easiest giveaways to enter!!

I have about 5 reviews and or giveaways that are going to be going up just after Blogmania is over. So keep coming back, these are some fabulous companies. I work hard to try and only do reviews and giveaways for not only products I think would work for my family, but also products I think my readers will enjoy. My intention is not for my blog to be about reviews and giveaways, but rather about my family, toddler friendly activities, going green, and learning to budget. When I find a product that would be something I think is something I would like, I seize the opportunity. I love to share what I love! After all, they are a part of our Family and Life in Las Vegas!!

Alright - I best get back to being a chicken looking for my head - let me know if you see it anywhere!!

Guest Blogger 10 ~ Jessica @ And Then There Were 4

Today will be my last Vegas Headliner for a little while... Don't get too sad, I am coming home from Vacation, and have lots in store!!

Jessica from And Then There Were 4 writes a great family blog. She loves to post about her children, and I (like many) love to read about all they are doing these days. She is a green mama who does her part to help our beautiful earth stay that way, and she has a passion for Fluff (just like me!!). Her boys are adorable, she is sweet as pie, and her blog can certainly stand on it's own! Not to mention all the fun giveaways she hosts, and a Saturday blog hop she co-hosts. So last, but certainly not least, Jessica!!

Tell me about yourself and your family.
My husband and I have been married for a little over 4 years now and in that time have moved across country, had two beautiful boys, moved several times to different apartments and have made a few job changes. We live a busy life, but I love it! We have two boys, Cohen who just turned two and Eli is 8 months. We live in sunny San Diego, but we consider North Idaho, where we were both raised, as home, and we hope to be able to move back soon! In the meantime, I am a full-time mama, the Organizer of a SAHM Meet-up group and an avid blogger! Needless to say, I enjoy keeping busy!

Why do you blog; what made you start?
I started And Then There Were 4... about 2.5 months ago and I absolutely love it! I began to blog as an outlet. Everything I do is for my boys and my family, but I wanted (and needed) something for myself! Plus, I do not even consider it work and think it is just so much fun!

You have 24 hours where you can do anything regardless of money, time, or consequence. What three things do you do?
Hm... Oh goodness. I would definitely try skydiving! I've always wanted to do it and would totally give it a shot if money weren't an option! Second, I would go on a massive shopping spree! I totally need some new clothes! :) Lastly, I would probably fly over to New York. I have always wanted to go there and would probably use my shopping spree there!! Woohoo! If only....!

If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would it be?
England. I really have no idea why but I have always wanted to go there. All the history, art and accents! :)

How do you want to be remembered?
Foremost, I want to be remembered as a mother who put her children first in everything. Who cared for them and loved them 100% no matter what! I want my boys to know I love them but I also want others to know how much I care for them, too.

I also want to be remember as someone who made a difference. I know that sounds cliche... But I have always had a passion for children. One day, when my boys are older, I hope to be able to help children who need it. Either in the foster system, those who are hungry or homeless, something that will make a difference in the life of at least one child.

If you could change something about yourself, what would it be & why?
Well, this one is an easy one. I would definitely change the way I see myself. I would change my self-image. Ever since I can remember, I have struggled with what I look like and it sure is a pain! I would love to be accepting of my appearance and love the body I'm in! :) One day, hopefully that will happen!

You can find Jessica on her blog at And Then There Were 4, as well as Facebook or Twitter. Please make sure you head over and give her some Family and Life in Las Vegas Style comment love!!

Also don't forget that you have an opportunity to get 2 extra entries into my giveaways based on the fact that you comment on and follow any of the guest posters. You can comment and follow on all of them for a total of 20 extra entries into the giveaways of your choice!!

Guest Blogger 9 ~ Melissa @ The Life of a Sippy Cup Mom

Melissa has a great blog. She posts about her family, things she enjoys doing, and deals, reviews, and giveaways. She is super sweet, and always seems to have a kind word when you need it most. Her little man is absolutely adorable! I really enjoy reading her blog. She really has some great tips to share. And even though she is a Cardinals Baseball fan (GO CUBBIES) I won't hold it against her. I am so happy to have had the chance to get to know Melissa through her blog, and kind emails. Who knows maybe one day we will meet up at a Cubs Cards game!!

Tell me about yourself and your family.

I have been with my husband for 8 years and married for 4! He is truly my other half, my best friend. I love spending time with him and my 2 year old son. They are my favorite people in the world! We love hanging out together and doing thing all over the city, like going to museums, parks and the Zoo. We are also a big Cardinals Baseball family!
Why do you blog; what made you start?

I started it with my goal just being to post some good deals I had been finding because lots of friends were asking me to share. I also wanted to keep family updated with stories and pictures of my son.

Name three things you really like to do?

I LOVE to read! I also like to catch up on all the TV shows that my husband and I watch. And anything Cardinals Baseball is a must!

What is the kindest thing anyone has done for you?

The kindest thing and the thing that touched me the most was when my Dad was in the hospital and I knew he was going to pass away. I made two calls. One to my now husband and one to my Mom. The next thing I knew the waiting room was filled with my whole extended family, friends and my husband's family. It was so touching that they were all there for me and helped me through that time.

If you were invisible, where would you go?

I don't know if I'd want that kind of power! ;-) Maybe go and sneak in and see what the ingredients are of Diet Dr. Pepper so I can make my own, LOL!

If someone wrote a book about your life, what would they title it?
LOL, can I just say "The Life of a Sippy Cup Mom"! :-)

You can read more about Melissa and her life as a Sippy Cup Mom by visiting her blog. (please leave some kind Family and Life in Las Vegas comment love). She is also on Twitter and Facebook.
Finally - just to share when I asked Melissa to send a picture for this blog she sent me this!
To which I was all like!
And Squishy had to join in too!
Haha! Just kidding, I love a good baseball rivalry. It keeps things fun! :) Besides Cubs and Cards can be friends right??

Guest Blogger 8 ~ HRH Mommy @ M is for Mommy

Today I have a wonderful Guest Blogger for you! HRH Mommy writes the blog, M for Mommy which is one of those blogs you can’t help but going back to again and again just to see what those sweet little boys are doing! Not to mention she writes from her heart when she blogs, and that makes for great reading material. (I have to admit, it did take me a bit to realize HRH Mommy was Her Royal Highness (but that is mostly from my lack of sleep, something this mommy and I have in common!) In addition to tons of pictures of the two cutest little men in her life, HRH Mommy has some fabulous recipes that she shares! The only downside to reading this blog, is you may leave a little hungry!

Tell me about yourself and your family.
Okay, so let’s just come clean: I have been going back and forth on whether or not to share my (real) name, but given the fact that in some comments on my blog my lovely friends addressed me by my name, I may as well expose myself here: Marieke – pronounced “Ma-REE-kuh” is Dutch. And guess what? So am I! Yep, I was born and raised in The Netherlands, that little tiny country that is smaller than the metropolitan area of Los Angeles, but with 16 million people cramped in it, between Germany and England. Well, between Germany and the North Sea is actually more accurate.

My educational and professional background you ask? Let’s see: I got my BA in Communications Management at a European College back home, I studied in Spain, I worked in Brussels, I graduated, and moved to Boston, MA where I continued at Emerson College for my Masters in Integrated Marketing Communication. I flew through it in 1-1/2 years and spent my last semester interning in Los Angeles (hey, if you fly half way around the world to study, you might as well get both the East Coast and West Coast experience, right?) Then, this little (well, not so little, I’m 6ft tall) inquisitive explorer spent 3 months in Italy, studying Italian: living with an Italian family, taking 30 hours of Italian classes a week and falling in love with all of Italy’s beauty, culture, food and gelato.

As you can see, I love to travel. I speak 6 (actually 7) languages: Dutch, English, German, Spanish, Italian, French and ‘Kai’ , which brings me to my family. 7 years ago, I got married in Malibu on the beach – on the very same spot where David proposed to me (yes, my sneaky husband got it on video!) We now have 2 beautiful sons: Kai is 2-1/2 and certainly has his own language that only I seem to marginally understand. Ryder joined us this past February (4 days before Kai’s 2nd birthday).

As I mentioned, we live in Los Angeles, where I work part-time as a professor at a local college. I used to model, but quit as I decided it really wasn’t ‘my thing’ and I hated the attitudes and atmosphere that I so often encountered. All I found myself wondering was “Can we cut the crap and just be civil to each other?”, but unfortunately that, at times, was too much to ask. Oh well. My husband is an actor / photographer / producer, so if it hadn’t been for his work, we certainly would have left the big city behind us to live somewhere a bit more quiet and peaceful, yet still within reach of what a city has to offer. Just not Los Angeles.

Last but not least, I used to be a professional tennis player. Yep, I was. No, I didn’t play internationally and unfortunately never made it to Wimbledon. I played during my teenage and early college years, but an injury unfortunately put an end to that passion. Oh well, had I continued to play, I most likely would have never met my hubby, which would have left me without my 2 precious boys, so do I regret it? Nope.

What is your blog about, and why did you start blogging?
My blog’s title is “M For Mommy, The Journey of Discovery in Raising Two Boys: A compilation of Daily Adventures and Opinions of A Mom to Two Irresistibly Cute Boys”
I think that sums up what my blog is about, doesn’t it? (Glad I was able to answer that question a bit more concise :-0)

In my very first post on my blog “Welcome, Welcome” I write about the reason why I started blogging, but I’ll summarize: With the closest family living 1,310 miles away in Texas, I started a family website several years ago: journal, photos, videos, the whole shebang. Good grief that’s a lot of work. Especially when you don’t have the slightest clue what HTML is. What does that stand for anyways? I spent numerous evenings sweating away, putting the site together. In the beginning I got some great feedback from family & friends, but now, several years later, I have the feeling that no one really checks it out anymore. I can post photos, videos for several months without hearing a word back from anyone. Satisfying? Not really. ‘Disappointing’ is the better word.

My blog is a means to get my stories out there, to connect with others, to share experiences and it serves as a creative outlet. I have really come to love writing and though I sometimes still find myself trying to figure out my ‘style’ I am sure that if I just keep at it, it will develop naturally. But overall, my blog is my journal, my memories, thoughts and opinions. That way I not only create the possibility for myself to reminisce about these days later, when I’m old and grey (oops, make that ‘old’ as the grey already started....), but it also gives me some awesome material to bribe my children with when they’re older.

If you had a motto, what would it be?
I grew up being the ‘nerd’ who always studied hard, got good grades and played tennis (and thus never had time to hang out with friends, as I practiced 7 days/week). All this resulted in expectations. Expectations from my family, friends, coaches, in other words: from others. Looking closely at my younger years, I have to admit that a lot of my actions were affected by the expectations my surroundings had of me. I wanted to meet or exceed those expectations (and I often did), but the number 1 reason was frequently different from ‘doing it for me’.

Over the years things have changed and my decision to get married to an actor at the age of 26 was frowned upon by many. What happened to the girl who was going to conquer corporate America? Now, in my early 30’s and as a mother to 2 precious boys, I’ve come to realize that being a mom is what I’m supposed to be. Believe me, I would have loved to have conquered corporate America. That would have made a lot of matters so much easier and simpler in our lives, but I don’t know if I would have been happy. There is still the desire inside of me to do something for myself (job wise that is). And I know I will. I don’t know what, but I know I will. When the kids are in school, I want to start my own business, be my own boss. Maybe do something together with a friend. “Doing what?” you ask? Honestly: Don’t know. I have several things in mind, varying from having an online business to hosting a show on the Food Network. I have 2 brilliant (if I may say so myself) ideas worked out on paper, ready to be presented. Anyone has a way in to their offices?

So, all this brings me to my motto (no I hadn’t forgotten):

“Failure and Success are merely based on my own expectations. Manage them!”

My own expectations are what count. Those that others have of me, not so much. My own expectations should be the driving force behind what I do. By managing my own expectations, I am my own judge and can make sure that I push myself enough to reach for the stars.

What is one of your favorite memories as a child?
My favorite childhood memories would have to be the traveling that I used to do with my parents. From the time that I was 2 months old, my parents took me traveling. Living in Europe means being (relatively) close to so many countries, cultures and traditions that are different from our own, though our destinations would sometimes still be a good 2-3 days of driving. I am an only child, so whenever we would go on vacations, I was (not on purpose) forced to get out and interact with kids who, without a doubt, spoke a different language. It’s fascinating how language is not at all a barrier for children. Children just play - no matter what their language or heritage. The traveling opened up a whole new world for me and I think my passion for travel, cooking, food and languages is has been greatly influenced by those childhood experiences.

Do you have any family traditions?
I grew up with a fair amount of family traditions and in that respect the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. I love creating them for my family now as well. One of the traditions I value a lot is dinner time: 6pm, sitting down, having dinner with the 4 of us (baby included), no TV, no distractions, just the family and our dinner. At the moment daddy makes sure that Kai consumes enough of his dinner (rather than dropping every bite into his bib), while I keep Ryder happy by ensuring a constant flow of food traveling from the bowl to his mouth. Oh yeah, and both daddy and I eat as well.

Thursday nights is Date Night. Nothing fancy, just dinner after the kids are in bed, a good conversation, a glass of wine, or simply vedging on the sofa cuddled up together watching our favorite shows.

For a while Sunday mornings would be a highlight with freshly squeezed orange juice and freshly baked croissants. (There is nothing better than the smell of baked goods in the morning.) This tradition has temporarily been suspended, until the mornings aren’t as crazy anymore as they are now with a toddler and a baby on different schedules. As soon as they synchronize a bit more, the croissants will make their return!

On Christmas Eve we all open 1 gift. Just to get a taste of what is coming. Then, on Christmas morning, we first have a beautiful Christmas breakfast, after which we open the gifts. During the day we watch our favorite Christmas movies: A Charlie Brown Christmas and It’s a Wonderful Life. In the evening, I make a European Christmas dinner: usually 4-5 courses, including a beautiful steak and an excellent bottle of wine.

Last but not least: Halloween. In our neighborhood we have become known as the scariest Halloween attraction. Our front yard is still waiting to be landscaped and every year we go all out with Halloween. We have a group of friends over who help and we usually have a ‘course’ that people have to walk through in order to get to the candy. It’s scary, I admit: sound effects, fog, spider webs, spiders dropping down off the roof in front of you, ghosts grabbing your arm from behind a bush as you walk by and the topper: the dead dummy (actually my hubby) who grabs your ankles from his grave as you walk away down the drive way after having collected your candy. Every year we try to do something new, people come great distances to check it out and every year it’s a success. By the way, the Moms are the ones that get scared the most!! (We’ve had people pass us by as our house was “way too scary”).

If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would be on your plate?
Oh, that’s a tough one. I love food so much, I don’t know if I could live off 1 thing in particular. But...if I had to choose, I would choose the Indonesian Rice Table. Maybe it’s cheating, I don’t know, but the Indonesian rice table consists of anywhere between 10-20 dishes that you pick from to go with your rice. Veggies, different kinds of meats, hard boiled eggs in a spicy sauce, salads, etc. Though I am not Indonesian, my mom used to make it for my birthday when I was a kid. She would slave away in the kitchen for 2 full days (poor woman), but oh boy, was it delicious!!!! So, not only would it provide me with the widest variety of food within 1 meal, it would also bring back (another) childhood memory that I treasure.

Please head over to M is for Mommy and leave Marieke some lovely comment love. Trust me,
you will want to head over just to see her great pics of her beautiful boys!!

Don't forget for every guest blogger you follow and comment on, you will get two extra entries into any giveaway.

Guest Blogger 7 ~ Lolo @ Crazy about My Baybah

Today’s Guest Poster is Lolo from Crazy about My Baybah. While she is here guest posting, I am in Minnesota enjoying our last few days, and celebrating my birthday. Today marks the first day of my last year in my 20s. One of the things I loved most about my late 20s was that in my move to Las Vegas, and in becoming a mommy I have made some really great Mommy friends. Lolo is one of those friends. I actually get the privilege of hanging out with this fantastic lady, and her uber cute little Baybah! (Seriously, if you think he is cute in pictures, he is 100xs that in real life!) Lolo is one of those girls that friendship came easily with. She is laid back and down to earth. She is caring, and a great mother. I am lucky to not only be able to call her my “Blogging Bestie” but also a true friend!

Tell me about yourself, and your family!

Hi everyone! My name is Lolo, and I am a 30 something working momma to the cutest little guy we like to call Baybah. Baybah is 15 months old, and loves to dance, read books, and run away from momma when she sees he has something that he should not. He loves to giggle as he runs away too! My husband and I have been together for the past 15 years, and have been married for 8. Wow, writing that out makes me realize how long it has been. I can’t believe that it has been that long. My Hubs is my best friend, and my biggest supporter. They are both the loves of my life, and have made me the happiest wife and momma in the world.

I am often found listening to indie music and taking a million and 1 photos. I also love to research new artists and projects for my students, and create craft too. Art is one of my passions!

Why do you blog; what made you start?
I belong to a mommy message board, and several of the other moms were talking about starting a 365-photo challenge for the New Year. I love taking pictures of my little guy, so I decided to participate. I wanted my family back east to see the pictures I was taking, so that is when I decided to start a blog. My first photo and blog post was posted on January 3, 2010, and I was officially hooked. My blog is filled with pictures, and stories about what I love, my little guy and family. During my summer break, I got even more into blogging. So now I not only post p ictures and stories about my little guy, I also participate in photo challenges, and do reviews a nd giveaways too! I am having a blast, and only wish I had started blogging sooner.

What are the three most memorable events in your life to date?

August 98- I got my first teaching job, so Hubs, then boyfriend, and I drove over 2,000 miles west to start our life together. Neither of us had ever been here before, so everything was new. A new job, new city, new friends, everything. There is no one in the world that I would have been able to start over again with but him.

July 2002 is when Hubs and I got married. Our wedding was back east, so it was wonderful to be able to share our day with family and friends from home. It was one of the most beautiful, happy days of my life. I do not think I have ever smiled as much as I did that day.

May 21, 2009- Our little man surprised us by coming 3 weeks early. Baybah wa s the perfect little bundle of joy. It was then that I realized what being a mom was all about, and that I could love someone more then I even thought possible. I look at him everyday with amazement that he picked me to be his mommy!

What is stashed under your bed/mattress?

Dust bunnies. No seriously, I can't believe this, but there is absolutely nothing underneath my bed right now. We just moved a couple of months ago into our new place, so I have not had time to start stashing things underneath there yet. Give it time though. I usually love to put magazines, books, and craft supplies underneath there. :)

Describe your perfect day.

My perfect day starts off by being able to sleep in until 8 or 8:30. Baybah, hubs, and I enjoy a family breakfast together, and then watch Yo Gabba Gabba. We spend the rest of the morning reading books, and playing with Baybahs toys. After Baybah wakes up from his nap, we head to our favorite cafe for lunch. After lunch, we go to the splash pad or pool, and have fun in the sun. Baybah will then enjoy a late afternoon nap, and then we head to the mall. Window shopping mostly, just so I can check out the deals, and see if I can find any cute clothes for the little guy. When we get home, hubs will make dinner, and then we will get Baybah ready for bed. Hubs and I will then read Baybah Good Night Moon, give him kisses, and put him to bed. Hubs and I will end the evening watching a movie and relaxing. Aaah!

Of all the pictures you have taken, what are your favorites?
Oh my, I have so many favorite, but here are a few! The first 2 were taken with my iphone, I think Baybah's expressions are hysterical. The third one is of Hubs and Baybah painting together, and the last one is just one of my all time favorites. Love him!!

Thanks for reading a little bit about me and my family! I would love it if you would stop over at Crazy About My Baybah to say hi, and to enter some giveaways too!

Make sure you head over to Lolo's blog and give her and her Baybah some comment love, Vegas Style!!

Guest Blogger 6 ~ Mandalyn and The Stinky Cheese

Today’s Guest Blogger is Amanda from Mandalyn and the Stinky Cheese. One of the things I love so much about Amanda’s blog is her honesty. She tells things as she feels it, and doesn’t apologize for doing so. She doesn’t sugar coat her life or her opinions, and shares all about it. Her little man is such a handsome little boy with big blue eyes. She writes about life as a mom, and life in general. I love reading her blog, and always find her take on life refreshing. Amanda always has a kind word of encouragement when you need it. She is one of those girls that when you read about her life on her blog you can not only relate, but feel like this is the kind of person you would be friends with if you ever met outside the blogosphere.

Tell me about yourself and your family?
Ahh…me…oh my…well my name is Amanda, but I also go by Mandy and Mandalyn. Just don’t call me AmanDUH! It is hard to tell you about myself because I am a uniquely quirky individual. However, the basics and not so basics are that I am 29 years old, a scorpio, I hate celebrating my birthday, I can yell louder than anyone I know, I will not eat chicken if it is on a bone, and I talk way too much.

Somehow I managed to find a man who accepted all these quirks and more and thus I married the cheese! Well, his name is Colby (like the cheese) and we met in 2005, married in 2007, and welcomed our little mutant (Wyatt) in September 2009…In fact I was in labor on our anniversary. We also have two insane cats that go by the names of Tyson and Chicken…believe it or not I did not attempt to make a funny when naming them.

Why do you blog; what made you start?
Since the age of 12 I have been writing poetry and always attempting to write a book. Once I met my husband I found I never had time to write anymore. I loved writing. It was my way of taking the time to think, and express myself all the while knowing I could hit delete. Once I became pregnant I realized that I needed to embrace writing again, and what a better way then to try out blogging.

It stuck. I have found so many amazing bloggers, and many have become friends. They are seriously the best mentors when it comes to parenting, marriage, and life! I hoped that my blog would do the same for other people out there…plus it is like totally fun! (insert valley girl accent)

What is your favorite movie of all time; ie you've seen them all, can watch it over and over again and quote lines from it?
Oh my…well hmm…I can quote Juno because it is sooo darn witty, but honestly I can only watch it when I am pregnant. Otherwise, my non-pregnant favorite is The Red Violin. I LOVE this movie! If you have never seen it rent it now!

What word describes you best?
Opinionated…I always have something to say ::wink wink::

What item of yours is the most special to you and why?
When my grandmother died she gave me a cameo of hers. She wore this cameo on her wedding day. When I got married I wore the very same cameo, and the headpiece to her veil. She was the most influential person in my life, and while she couldn’t be there with me in person, she was close to my heart every minute of my special day.

If you could change one thing about the world we live in what would it be?
There are so many things I would like to change. However, honestly right now if I could change anything it would be getting rid of political parties. I want this country to embrace originality and personal thoughts and beliefs again. I feel like everyone is defined by his or her political party these days, and it is becoming the new form of racism.

I just want to say thank you to Emily for such a fun opportunity! Feel free to stop on by my blog, Mandalyn and the Stinky Cheese, and drop me a note! I would love to meet some new people and see your world through your writing. Have a most awesome day, and enjoy!

Make sure you stop by her blog and let her know you were there!

Guest Blogger 5 ~ Crystal @ Mom 4 Less

Today’s guest poster is a newer blogger, whose blog I found through Mom Bloggers. Crystal has a fun blog filled with great information on how you can be a mom and still save money. Who doesn’t like saving money. How she finds time to share all the great tips she does chasing around an active little boy, while being 7+ months pregnant I have no clue, but I will sure be asking her for tips when we decide to add on to our family.


Tell me about yourself and your family.
I have been married to my wonderful husband Zach for five years. We have a 14 month old son, and another baby boy due at the end of October. We also have two mutts we rescued from the Humane Society: a basenji mix named Scout, and a corgi mix named Thumper. I love my family and spending time with them is my favorite thing in the world.

What is your blog about?
My blog is called Mom for Less, and my goal is to help moms find great deals and save money. Rather than just post deals and reviews, I like to give my blog a personal touch and write about my life experiences as frugal mom. I currently work outside of the home full time, and my goal is to become a stay-at-home mom within the next two years. My blog chronicles that journey and my successes and failures. I really want to connect with other moms who are trying their hardest to make it work! My hope is that we can share our struggles and triumphs.

I also just LOVE the feeling I get from finding a great deal; such a sense of accomplishment! So I also want my blog to help other moms have that same feeling.

What are your top three tips for saving money?
My first tip would be, take advantage of the internet! There are entire websites dedicated to freebies, giveaways, coupons, and deals. Don't make any major purchases without first going online and looking for the best deal.

My second tip is an extension of the first - ask people where the deals are! You can do this both with your "real life" friends and over the internet. If I am looking for a good deal on a specific item, I'll send out a Tweet: "I'm looking for XXXXX, anyone know where I can find a good deal?" I have friends who work at certain stores tell me when my favorite items are going on sale. And I get at least ten text message a week from my shopping buddies: "Diapers are on sale at Target!" or something like that.

My third tip, especially for moms, is don't be afraid of buying generics or getting things second hand. Literally all of the furniture in my son's room came from other people, from his crib to his changing table. The majority of his clothes are from mom friend's with older boys. That was such a blessing when he was going through a growth spurt! His stroller was purchased at a children's resale store, and was like new when we got it. We have saved so much just by being frugal and being willing to take hand-me-downs from our friends. And our friends were happy to get things they no longer needed out of their houses!

We use store brand diapers, wipes, medications, baby wash, diaper cream, etc. and have been happy with how well they work. This is another place where I have connected with other moms to find out which store brands are as good as the name brand. I even stopped a mom in Sam's Club once to ask what she thought of their brand of diapers! I understand that some mom's have hesitations with second hand or generic things, and that is absolutely ok, but for us it has been a huge key to saving money.

Do you have any hidden talents?
I love to sing. I started college as a music major, but ended up switching to English. My singing today is pretty much limited to "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" and "Five Little Ducks," but I still love it!

IF you had a super power what would you like it to be?
I don't know if it counts as a superpower, but I wish I only needed a couple hours of sleep every night. There is so much I want and need to do, and so little time!

If you had a bucket list what are the top two things on there?
One of my favorite shows is Iron Chef America, and I dream of being a judge so I can taste all that delicious food. I would also really love to make it to one of the big blogging conferences! It's hard to do things like that when you have little ones, but hopefully when my kids are older I will be able to attend one.

You can find Crystal (Mom for Less) on Twitter as well as her blog, Mom 4 Less. Please head over and give her some Family and Life in Las Vegas Love!

Don't forget to head over and follow her (or any of our Vegas Headliners), leave a comment and get 2 extra entries in to any giveaway!

Guest Blogger #4 ~ Xenia, Thanks, Mail Carrier

So today’s guest blogger is one I love to read again and again. Xenia writes the blog Thanks Mail Carrier. I enjoy it because she is witty, funny, honest, fresh, and has some really great giveaways. Her posts never fail to be enjoyable in one way or another. If you aren’t already following her blog, you are missing out big time!

Tell me about yourself and your family
I'm a 30-something SAHM who has been married to my wonderful, loving, takes-it-all-in-stride, still-isn't-convinced-that-
blogging-isn't-a-complete-waste-of-time husband for 7 years (together for 12). We have two daughters: Our crazy, dependable, passionate, creative Big Sister E will be 4 in October and our curious, brave, hilarious, sweet Little Sister B will be 2 in December.

Why do you blog; what made you start?

I blog to preserve the last bits of sanity that I have left!

My older daughter was the most laid-back, easy-going baby (you hate me, I know). I always knew I would be a SAHM but didn't realize how much I would crave still being able to connect with someone who could actually talk back! I didn't really know or understand about blogs back then (who would want to read the boring details of someone else's life?) but stumbled onto one when I was looking up information online one day and found it interesting. After another year of reading blogs and entering giveaways, I decided to start my own and it's been all downhill ever since.

What fad did you follow when you were in high school?
Was high school this lifetime? I wasn't tremendously into any of the fads of the 90's, although I did have a Hypercolor shirt. And a pair of their socks. I also really loved Save By The Bell (still do) but I suppose that isn't really a fad, more like just knowing it was the Coolest. Show. Ever.

Who in your life do you admire?
So many people! But the top two have to be my mother and mother-in-law. My mom has been through all sorts of ups and downs but still manages to be one of the most supportive, caring people that I know. She is never without a loving word and is always there for me 100%. I am extremely lucky to have an amazing mother-in-law as well, she is one of the most patient, kindhearted women that I have ever met. As my in-laws only live about an hour from us, my daughters have grown up seeing them often and couldn't be happier when they get to have time with Grandma.

If you were a crayon, what color would you be?
I'd love to say that I would be something vivid and fun like Razzmatazz or Aquamarine... but truthfully Macaroni and Cheese is probably the most accurate. It's a fun, dependable, creative color and I'm not sure that our house wouldn't self-combust without the real thing!

If your life was a song, what would the title be?
"Help Me Wipe, Mama!" I love my kids more than anything, but the day that I don't have to change anyone's diaper or wipe another person's butt can't come soon enough.

Please head over to Xenia’s Blog Thanks Mail Carrier, and leave some comment love from Family and Life in Las Vegas. You can also find her on Twitter and Facebook.

Don't forget - for every guest blogger you follow and leave a comment on their blog, you get two extra entries into the giveaway of your choice.