Friday, December 23, 2016

My aunt Sues nearly famous "white trash" recipe

1 box of golden grahman cereal
1 bag pretzel
2 cans mixed nuts
2 cans cashews
2 cans peanuts
2 block of almond bark
mix all cereal nuts and pretezels together. Melt bark in mic until its melted good.
Pour over mixture and mix well than pour out on wax paper and let it dry.

(I've been known to cut the nuts to just 1 can of nuts and add 1 bag of Christmas m&m's and that's good too)

Another one of her Chex trash. We will call this one
Christmas crack
 1 box chex cereal
1 box cinnamon toast crunch cereal
 1 box honey nut cereal
mini twists pretzel
mixed nuts
2 blocks almond bark

It's been known my grandma likes to make up her own so I wanted to post this here for all my family to have the "right aunt sue recipe" and for all my friends that love me during the holiday just for this mix! 😂




Happy holidays! 🎅🏼 🎄 🎁

Monday, September 21, 2015

Dont hate me for cryinggggg!!

  





Whewww!! It has been far, far to long since I have made a blog post.  Between experiencing being a mommy, learning my baby girl and of course traveling the world it seems there has been little time to make a blog post.  As many of you may know lots of life changes besides our little miss.... we now live in Kansas, that's right Manhattan, KS!! Wooo HOOO!! BOO WHOO!!! Lol. the best part though is that I'm staying home with Kinlee and its so fun and rewarding minus trying to make myself around a small town not knowing anyone but we are making our way and growing our friendships thru our army friends and of course I joined cross fit so that helps get us out of the house.  
Moving with the military is hard on everyone and anyone.  I mean of course we all love meeting new peeps and learning the areas but it is down right hard on everyone and when you add a dog and a little girl to the mix it makes it that much more difficult.  Again being a mom is such a learning experience every day and I wouldn't trade it for the world!
So the reason for this post is for me to share with you an experience I had and have learned from and I thought I needed to share it with you all.... I love hearing peoples experiences and advices on parenting so here's a little from me to YOU!
So as many of you, I'm sure must know... we have NEVER had a baby that has slept.  From being a new born and waking up every few hours to nurse.  Then taking onto solid foods (everyone says once they are on foods she will sleep... no not quite) My excuse was always oh she's so little, oh she has to nurse, or she's cold, or she doesn't like her bed, or she's teething, or something... or something else....  I mean I let her cry for a bit, but I'm never going to let her cry it out I don't know how anyone can ever do that to their child.  (Never say never)  Then we hit 8 months we were about to make our move and our little one slept for 6 hours one night.. yes S I X! I think I woke up every couple hours anyways to make sure she was still breathing I got so excited! But then the next night and the next night and so on it was every 3-4 hours which was better than every few.  I began to have hope that somewhere in this life of sleep habits we were making progress.... Most of the time, she would wake for no given reason.  Most of the time I would assume it was just close enough to a feeding so we would nurse and then back to bed she went.  Then we moved and it flopped we went back to waking every few hours we were in transit for a good month so I figured once we get in our house she will bounce back and hopefully start sleeping as we were making some progress.  Well NO! Who was I kidding?!?!  We got into our house, her nursery was together all was good. nursing was starting to decrease with one feeding at night but she still wasn't sleeping.  We now went from waking every 4 hours to waking every hour .  She was 10 months old I seriously did everything and when I say everything I mean anything anyone had ever told me to do I did...except the Cry it out method because that was just something I never believed in I mean your child needs love, caring and to know that they always have your comfort.  I mean what does it teach them to let them scream and cry?!?!
Well it had now gotten to the point where even naptime wasn't working anymore and I knew those couldn't be skipped as a tired baby sleeps worse than a well rested baby...although I will add there were several days I just threw in the towel and she didn't get a nap and then I was up all night FOR REAL!
So this is what my day consisted of wake nap at 10...it would take about an hour to get her to sleep  and as for everytime she would fall asleep in this new sleeping environment I would TIP TOE to her bed gently hold my breathe, softly lay her down tip toe away and breathe and if I was able to then leave the room I was in shock... most times we would do this about 3 times till she finally fell asleep then she would sleep for 30 minutes.  During this time she was fussy all the time, irritable, tired, clingy all the things you want to steer clear of with your child.  then after noon nap repeat again. I was lucky if she was getting an hour nap in a day  if we got in two hour naps for both naps combined we were in heaven just so I could sit and breathe, or do the dishes or call and complain to a friend. I could never get anything done.  Then came the evening we have always followed a strict bedtime routine. Bath>Story Time> Nurse/bottle>Bedtime well now for this evening bedtime it would take me anywhere from 1-2.5 hours to get her to go to sleep. The slightest movement, noise, roll over she would be wide awake I was seriously on pins and needles.  She would then sleep for about 3 hours and wake then in the middle of the night we would start the process of it taking at least an hour to go to sleep.  At this point I became at my whit's end. I was irritable, moody, coffee wasn't enough for me, mad, upset, felt like a failure and just didn't know what to do. I was majorly sleep deprived and felt like jumping off a bridge {not really but really}I knew there had to be a change but I had read every blog out there followed all the tips, read books after books, talked to strangers I didn't even know about it.  I didn't know what to do but I wanted my happy self back, I wanted my baby back that was bubbly, laughing playing and just always happy. But how on earth do I get there?!?! I called back to my pediatrician  dr Viniarski at Woodcreek Pediatrics in Puyallup, Wa where we are no longer patients. I was in tears I gave my spill and just asked for simple help..... and she said,"Jessica I know its hard but you really have to let her cry" Coming from her it clicked I and it was a turning point.  She said order this book, Healthy Sleep Habbits, Healthy Child and then call back if you have any questions.  So I ordered the book (thank you amazon for quick delivery) In the meantime I like to call it my support group about 4 girlfriends and gave it a go... Derek wasn't quite on board but once I was so determined he knew he had to follow and he wanted everyone to be happy too. SO we started the cry it out method. I was prepared mentally and physically. I had jotted down notes, I had girls on speed dial in all time zones (yes I probably drove them nuts) I cried. She cried. I cried more than she did.  I started out slow the first night 3 mins cry. 1 minute soothe. 3 minutes cry. 1 min soothe. 5 mins cry and she was asleep. Night two 5 minutes cry. 1 minute soothe. 3 mins cry and she was asleep. The next week was tough but she never cried longer than 12 minutes until she was asleep. I was so against this method but like anything you have to do what works for you, have a plan and stick with it. As my friend Sarah well stated, "we sometimes forget who is in charge and then have to just reinforce that" these are words I will live by for the rest of my life. I must say without my 4 girlfriends I probably would've failed a few times but this works. And in the end we all want a child that self soothes, that is independent and strong we can teach this to them in many ways but after reading this book (I'm only half done as I stopped where she is in age) this is just going to help her with these traits.  Do we sleep all night? Some nights. Does she still wake often? sometimes. its a roller coaster and I'm still learning. But I recommend if your having problems (or not) start early and follow.  Once I think I have it finally mastered we hit a bump in the road but I will say we are way better than where we were. I can now lay her down and she will soothe herself to sleep {or now that she can stand, she will until she sits down and goes to sleep} I just really wanted to share my experience with you that cry it out isn't always as bad as what everyone thinks it can be.  I hope this helps some. I hope to not have haters. We are happy healthy and back to ourselves again. 

Cheers to healthy sleeping.
xoxo
Jess

Tuesday, April 7, 2015

Pre-opening

Here you have it my friends, the pre-opening of my soon to be "MODERN SPRAKLE BOUTIQUE" opening.  Here you will find the listings of all my items I currently am working on. I am offering these to you at a discounted rate so I can continue to prefect my skills for my grand opening. So beware when purchasing there may be a few very MINOR flaws that most won't see with the eye but my wild perfectionist eye will see.  In the meantime please enjoy these pieces at low prices. 
 

::Orders::

If you would like to place an order plese email your orders to: jnkingsbury08@gmail.com   Stating what you would like to purchase. Once I receive your email I will email you an invoice for your items via paypal.  Once items are paid in full I will then begin to fulfill your order. Keep in mind during ordering I make these items to order, therefore it  takes 5-7 business days for your items to ship.  Shipping cost is $2.50 adding 50 cents for each additional item. *if you live in the Puyallup/Tacoma area we can arrange for pick up to opt out of shipping fees.  Please check back to this post often as this is where I will update new items, fabrics and more! If you have any special ideas of something I should add to my store, tips or tricks please comment below

::Baby Head wraps::

$7 

Your little princess will sure to catch an eye with this adorable headwrap.  This head wrap does not come pre-tied.  (Soon I will post tutorials on how to tie these...there are several different fun methods) Made of cotton 36 inches long.  For all ages.  Because these items are uniquely handmade no two items are alike and patterns may slightly vary.  Be sure to check out my selection of bib bandanas to coordinate a adorable outfit.
Taupe polka dot 

Pink & Gold chevron 

White & black polka dots

Leapord 






::Baby knotted turban::

$5 

This super adorable knotted bow headband is sure to add a bit of sparkle to your little girls style.  It is made of soft stretchy jersey knit, making it easy to untie and retie knot to fit the needs fo your growing little girl.  Because these items are uniquely handmade no two items are alike and patterns may slightly vary.  Fits 3 + months  21 inches long.  I also have newborn sizes by request.  Be sure to check out my selection of bib bandanas to coordinate a adorable outfit.
Coral with white pin stripes 
White with navy blue stripes 
 
 
 
 

::Bib Bandanas::

//aka: drool catchers\\

$6

This fabulously amazing bib bandana is perfect for those teethers who are drooling all over the place or to even just add a bit of sparkle to your little ones attire.  These super cute bandanas are made of 100% cotton with a flannel or minky backing (depending on bib) Snap closure. Desings for both boy and girls.  Because of the uniqueness of this product no town are alike and designs can slightly be altered.  Recommended for 3+ months. Be sure to check out my selection of  head wraps and turbans to coordinate an adorable outfit.
Taupe polka dot


Grey herringbone 
*items sold separately 

Pink & gold chevron
 
 
Black & white stripes with gold polka dot
 
 
Summer floral orange & pink 
 
 
 
 

::Bow Ties::

$4

As if your little mister couldn't get any cuter! Add some sparkle to his outfit with these super trendy cotton bowties.  Attached by a metal clasp on the back of bowtie for those little misters still sporting onsies or a single prong clip for the big boys to slip onto button down shirts.  During ordering please specify which clasp you would prefer. If no clasp is specified you will receive a single prong clip.  Because these items are uniquely handmade no two items are alike and patterns may slightly vary
 



* At this time I am not honoring any bundle deals.  Once my store opens those options will then be available.

Monday, March 23, 2015

Modern Sparkle

Coming soon..... 

I'm excited to announce to you all what's on my agenda for my next big adventure as we travel to the mid west.
We all know I've always had a little bit of a crafty sparkle  and since having kinlee that sparkle keeps stiking me with things to make. With the help of Derek's great grandmother, June passing down her very modern high tech as I might add sewing machine I thought I might as well put it to good use. Along with my crafting for cricut projects. So as I began teaching myself to sew and making things here and there for kinlee. As it was soon brought to my attention from a few friends and my amazing husband that I should open a store and sell these items. So I thought long and hard while cursing a few words at my sewing machine..... that this sounds fun! 
So now I'm onto my projects of profecting my items in preparation of my Etsy store, Modern Sparkle boutique. 

As I wanted to open it ASAP and begin shipping out items I've thought to myself let's be realistic. I am moving across the US in just a few short months. (As if life isn't hectic enough) Shortly all my household goods will be gone and it will be nearly impossible to keep all my new customers happy with speedy services. So I've decided to hold off on the opening of the store until we get to Kansas in our house and we will have a huge launch party to kick it off. So in the meantime I will continue to profect my skills,  get my lines straighter, my tools in check, learn this machine a little more and offer you my friend rates that will be much lower than my Etsy store as I'm profecting each item. The items I will be selling at this point are baby girl turbans, headwraps and a few headbands. Bib bandanas (drool bibs appropriate for boys and girls) and little boy bow ties that clip to a onsie or button down shirt your choice of attachment. 
Be on the lookout for a new post in a day or so where you can place an order with me if you see something that catches your eye.... Or you have an interest in supporting me. Can't wait for all your feedback. 
A little sneak peek.... 
 










Thursday, November 27, 2014

Creamed style corn

I know I need to get back on a clean eating track but using thanksgiving as my final splurge. (Or convincing myself of that) dec 1 I'm back to the gym and for me the two to hard and hand. This creamed corn is so delish I had to share! 
Homemade cream style corn 
16 oz frozen sweet corn, thawed 
8 oz cream cheese 
1/4 stick of butter 
1/4 c shipping cream 
1 tbsp sugar 
Salt and pepper to taste 
4 pieces of bacon, cooked and crumbled. 
Place all ingredients minus corn and bacon in sauce pan melt. Add corn and bacon stir well. (Sometimes I add a bit more corn so it's not as creamy) 
Enjoy! 

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

A little Georgia peach.


Kinlee and I had an amazing time visiting auntie Alicia and uncle Malcolm  in Georgia. It was both of our first experiences visiting Georgia and it was a beautiful visit. The weather was great one day it made it up to 78 and SUNNY!! I learned real quick my Washington baby hates the sun. Not even just the sun but the brightness.

 We enjoyed auntie and uncle time. It was good to finally get to see their beautiful home that Alicia has decorated oh so cute. (Yes she takes after me with style..... Not to be conceited or to brag) the puppies were amazing they absolutely loved baby k! 


We shared some much needed sister time with late night girl talks and lots of laughter. Alicia was finally able to get her hair done (yes she only gets it cut or new color when we visit each other) with that being said we cut off around 10 inches back into a cute long balayage bob. Such a change! We shopped our hearts out especially in the baby departments. Experienced lots of blowout diapers. 

We laughted until we cried. 
We snuggled baby Kinlee till she fell asleep or got bored. 


We cooked our first thanksgiving dinner together (a bit early but we can't be together on the actual day) we made Cajun turkey breast, sweet potato casserole topped with pecan strussel...Life changing! Creamed corn with bacon crumbles, green bean casserole, salad, rolls and apple bread topped with salted caramel drizzle.... So delicious! We played board games and reminised old times around the coffee table until our eye lids could no longer stay open. 


Kinlee got lots of cuddles from auntie and uncle. She enjoyed many evenings in the arms of uncle Malcolm watching whatever he wanted on tv cause anything on tv is amazing. She got lots of kisses and snuggles from him too. To see how in love he is with my little girl just totally melted my heart. We were so thankful to spend this time with uncle! 


Nothing to me is better than spending time with my family. The ones I love the most. I sometimes take these things for granted at how amazing our relationships are. Each time I visit with Alicia I realize more and more how we are just exactly alike in many ways and  how she truly is my best friend. She is the one I can talk to about anything in the world and it doesn't even matter. She is more than a sister now, she is more than a best friend to me. She is an aunt to my daughter and soon to be her best friend as well. The connection in the eyes of my baby as she goo goo'ed will only begin to grow stronger as the years pass by. I am very thankful I was able to take this trip and spend time wth Alicia Malcolm and Malcolm's little brother. We truly had an amazing time and are so sad to be headed back to the west. Maybe someday the army will station us at the same location. Now that would be a dream come true for all of us! 


Seatac- altanta


The day has finally arrived for Kinlee and I to head out to Georgia to visit my sister, Alicia and Malcolm. At 12 weeks old this momma is anxious to get there and leading up to flying I have been a nervous wreck. Thus far the experience has gone a little smoother than I had anticipated thank goodness! 
Upon traveling at the airport at an early 7am (we are NOT morning people) traffic was pretty heavy my nerves were twitching it seemed as if it was the longest drive to the airport. Derek was a little on edge as well. Arriving at seatac we found parking right away... Thankfully! (That never happens) I had prechecked in and prepaid for my check bag. In which I would highly recommend cause we didn't have to stand in that terrible long line. We zipped right in to the kiosks to print off the tags. One of the many of my amazing clients had told me Derek could get a security pass and walk to my gate with me. And let me just say that was the most amazing thing ever! Thank you Alaska. Air! Having him push the stroller while I toted Kinlee in the baby ergo made it much easier. She was amused by all the people and lights. (Yes she's taking after her momma and loves watching people) Derek was able to grab me a coffee and a fast food sandwich for a little bit of energy while Kinlee was being nursed (this wasn't my plan but does anything go as planned?!?!?) It was feeding time and I wasn't going to stretch it just so she can feed on the way up because this fussy baby won't eat when she's mad. By the time she had finished nursing it was time for us to preboard. The moment I was so nervous about. Down the runway we go a stroller, a carrier and baby in ergo and a diaper bag on my back. I "gracefully" placed our carrier in a big orange bag and the stroller next. (We all know how ruff they are in luggage I wanted to protect our nice britax with bagging) that was a lot harder than I thought. But finally I go them placed in the bag after smooshing my latte that I so needed prior to this flight.... Can you say caffeine addict? Finally made it on as I could feel myself to begin to sweat. I found our seat and got situated. Bottle out, burp cloth in hand, Aden swaddle blankets, pacifier in, water..... Ok breathe.... 
Kinlee was amused at all the people as our plane began to get full and my anxiety level began to rise for take off I remembered crap!!! I forgot to warm the bottle!!! Oh how breastfeeding is SO much easier than bottles. But bottles at times can be more convenient. After all she did just nurse but I'm worried about her ears and then I realize I need to chill and stop worrying.  I said a little prayer and put that pacifier in. I do believe this will be my sucking saving grace to happiness. I met the two amazing ladies in my row. (I believe they were angles) so helpful! One with anxiety level just as high as mine so we chatted until we were coasting above the clouds. At this point Kinlee was sound asleep and sucking away on her paci. Thank you lord for answering my prayers I felt his present as all my worries melted away. Hours into the flight my baby has slept this whole time as I sit here and make this blog post the longer I become a mom and the more that I am challenged to make decisions I have realized staying calm makes the biggest difference in the world. After all why did I even bring a bottle?