Mommy = Family Stylist

This weekend was a bit active. We had a baby shower on Saturday and a family activity on Sunday. Some how I was the last one to be ready every day. When I reflected on the weekend, I realized I had added one more occupation to my resume.....STYLIST.

I had never ever thought about it but mommies are family stylist. I have to get everyone's outfit ready,(not that were like 100 were only three but Hey) iron...take baby bath and get him ready.....then make sure hubby has everything and THEN I can get ready which is usually not fair because I get half the time to get ready that everyone else gets. I feel for you mothers of several children(one day I'll be there with you).

Treasured Sweets Giveaway

CLOSED

Treasured Sweets is giving away 36 Mint Books to one lucky Mommy on my blog!

Don't know what mintbooks are?

Personalized mintbooks are a very unique party favor because they look like matchbooks, but contain an individually wrapped LifeSavers^® mint. Mintbooks are personalized with a front and back design.

You get to choose the theme and they are personalized for you as well!

WIN IT!

How To Enter:
1. Go to Treasured Sweets and leave me a comment telling me which Mintbook theme is your favorite.

After you have completed the first entry, you are eligible for additional entries. Make sure you leave a separate comment for EACH entry.

Additional Entries:

2. Blog about the giveaway and link to Treasured Sweets (http://www.treasuredsweets.com/) and Lil Hiccups (http://www.lilhiccups.com) and leave the URL to your post in the comment.
You can also Myspace for Facebook about it! (3 entries)

3. Subscribe to Lil Hiccups by reader or email or Follow on blogger.(1 entry)

4. Follow Lil Hiccups on Twitter @LilHiccups and Tweet about this giveaway. Leave the URL to your tweet in your comment. (2 entries)

5. Stumble this post (the post, not the site). Leave a comment with your Stumble name and/or URL. (1 entry)

ATTENTION:
If you do not have a Google account please leave an email where to reach you in case you win!
Thanks in Advance!

THIS CONTEST HAS BEEN EXTENDED ANOTHER WEEK!

This giveaway will end Sept 24th at 11:59 PM EST. Winner will be chosen via random.org and announced on this post. US and PR entries only, please

GOOD LUCK!

AND THE WINNER IS........

Please contact me at lilhiccups@gmail.com!

DARCY (Swap Mamas Founder) Guest Blogger

So, you all know Daisy. The bloggin’ mama who makes the fabulous hair bows. Over the past few months, we’ve gotten to know her over at Swap Mamas www.swapmamas.com too, and let me tell you, the woman is a swapping FIEND. Which, as swapmamas.com’s founder, fills my heart with warm fuzzies.

She’s asked me to tell you my birth story. Okay, not MY actual birth, nor the birth of my daughter (53 HOURS OF INDUCED LABOR, thank you very much), but the birth of my second baby, Swap Mamas …

I’ve been a single parent since the second trimester. As if THAT wasn’t a big enough shock, just 13 weeks into my pregnancy, my entire department at the publishing company I worked for, was laid off. I found myself suddenly alone and without income. Thankfully, a few months later I was re-hired, albeit at a much lower salary … it was still a job and I was intensely grateful.

Suffice it to say, money was tight. Without being asked, my friends rallied and mailed me their no-longer-needed maternity clothes. Then, when my daughter was born, they mailed me THEIR daughter’s no-longer-needed clothes. I received boxes of hand-me-downs every few months. Those shipments were a godsend. I bought very little in the way of clothes the first two years of my baby’s life. It definitely made paying the bills a little easier.

But I couldn’t help thinking of all the mama’s out there who DIDN’T have friends to mail them care packages. And then I thought about all the baby clothes out there that must be sitting boxed away in closets across the country. There had to be a way to put the two together. I obsessed over it.

Four years later, Swap Mamas was launched, and after seven months, the site currently has over 2,700 members. I can’t tell you the satisfaction I get from seeing so many mamas helping others like I knew they would. They’re connecting, shipping hand-me-downs across the country and really supporting one another in a very pure and simple way.

Now, it’s MY turn to give back. I like to think of it as Swap Karma. I’d love to have you join us and find out for yourself just how good it feels!

DARCY (Swap Mamas Founder)

I hope you enjoyed this post by our guest blogger! Thanks Darcy!

Boxer Miguel Cotto and my Cutie!

On Saturday we went shopping my lil guy and I. While we were out as luck would have it we were in the middle of a press conference for Miguel Cotto. In case you don't know who he is. Miguel Cotto is a champion boxer of Puerto Rico. In Puerto Rico boxing is a BIG DEAL! He was there promoting his foundation "El Angel". His foundation raises money to fight against child obesity.

When they asked if we wanted to take a picture with him I said yes! He quickly took Ryan into his arms to take pictures with him. Needless to say as the only baby there he got some extra one on one with the boxer.

Too bad hubby didn't want to go "shopping" that day...hehe! We got rewarded!

So, here is Miguel Cotto and my lil man.



BTW, we are going to the fight in Las Vegas in November. We can't wait first time in Vegas. Any tips for taking a baby to Vegas anyone?

Ughhhh....living in Puerto Rico.

Yep, this definitely is a vent. I've been living here in Puerto Rico for about a year and a half. The number one thing I hate is the light going out and water not running. Last night the light went out since 11pm till 12pm today. Thank heavens we have a generator. Also this morning apart from not having light we had no cable, phone or internet. Well hopefully that won't happen again for a while.

Thank you to my Readers and Followers!

I am so happy that I started up Lil Hiccups and now it's just taking on a life of it's own. I am now branching out to Lil Hiccups Bows and More which I am sure some of you ladies will love.

I want to thank you for coming to my site and making to possible for us to grow as fast as we are. This upcoming week will be great for my readers. I am posting a couple of awesome giveaways.

Thank you for being you and supporting me and my Lil Hiccup Ryan!

Support an Animal Shelter!

We have a guest blogger today HUNTER the Maltese!

Hi Everyone!

My name is Hunter and I'm a maltese. But, what you might not know is that mom and dad rescued me from a local shelter. This shelter took me in not only once - but twice! Why you ask? Because the first family that adopted me brought me back because they said I was "too much to handle" and they didn't have time for me. I was really happy when they brought me back because they hadn't been taking care of me and I had to go back under the sleepy stuff to have my ears cleaned out and a tooth pulled.

Anyways, that was all in the past. Now, because of all the love and support of my local shelter, I live with my wonderful mom and dad who spoil me ROTTEN ! But, I am a good maltese and I will never forget where I came from . That's why every year I participate in the Strut Your Mutt! This is a fundraiser for the shelter that took such good care of me. All the money that I raise goes directly to the care of the animals that aren't as lucky as me and haven't found their fur-ever homes just yet . The money goes towards all the medical bills that the shelter has to make the dapper dogs and crazy kitties healthy and strong so they can have a new chance at life. Surgery is expensive and while the local vets pitch in and give great discounts, it's not always enough. So, all the money I raise will go into the Sadie Fund which is used to treat all the little medical problems that surrenders typically have (like being neutered, spayed, ears cleaned, teeth pulled, and sometimes bigger surgeries that I don't dare talk too much about like kidney, knees, and heart problems - YIKEs!)

I wanted to raise a MILLION dollars for the shelter this year because I love them so much (last year I raise $1000) but my mom said that the economy is tough this year so I she said I needed a more modest goal . I would appreciate it if anyone reading this could give even just a little so that I can help my friends at the shelter to have a nice and safe stay while they are there until their fur-ever homes are found.

Well, I have to get to training - its a long 2 mile walk and it's held rain or shine so the hot summer sun can't slow me down today. Mom said she was going to attach a link for everyone to go to and donate at. Thanks again for reading and donating!!!

xoxo Hunter

http://www.firstgiving.com/erinoreillyjakan

Childhood Dream Fulfilled?

Today as I was surfing the net (no, I did not get wet ;P) I saw a question....Have you fulfilled your childhood dream? Hmmm.....I would have to say I am starting to fulfill it. I always wanted to be a mommy and so far I've been one for 4 mos. now and I love it! It may not me the most glamorous job but those little smiles are worth millions.

Before I had Ryan I always had in the back of my mind that when I was ready to concieve I would have a hard time or it would take sme a while to concieve and I would be devastated. To me baking(:)) my very own child meant the world....I wanted to feel him kick and give him birth. Luckily our little surprise baby came easy and we had no idea he was already stirring inside when we found out we were pregnant. God is funny like that! LOL!

Since I always wanted to be a mommy, I consider it to be a childhood dream come true.
have you fulfilled your childhood dream??

This was me back in Feb.09....never ever ever thought I'd say this but.....I MISS BIENG PREGGERS! LOL!

Wordless Wednesdays

My hubby is a saver too! LOL!

Okay I am addicted?

I am constantly on Swap Mamas....the women on there are so friendly and you get to swap things you no longer need for things you need (such as gifts lots of handmade good too) I have already swapped with over 15 people.

Here's how it works!

GET STARTED!

Step 1. Sign up! (psst ... it's free.)

Step 2. Fill out your profile, upload a photo and create your own custom page. This is how swapmates will get to know you.

Step 3. Browse the GROUPS, join all that interest you, connect with others, and start swapping!

WAYS TO SWAP

1. Even Steven. You want something of theirs. They want something of yours. Here's a fantastic example of this.

2. Just Give. Eventually you'll be on the receiving end! Here's a great example of this.

3. Old Fashioned Bartering. Do you have a craft? Maybe you make jewelry. Maybe you have a talent for fiber arts. Whatever your specialty, if you see something up for trade you'd like, why not offer to barter? It's worked for centuries -- why stop now? Here's a fabulous example of this.

Hope to see you there soon and yes my name is Daisy and I am addicted.

www.swapmamas.com

Please put me down as your referrer (Daisy Gamboa).

Hurricane Season...Ughhhh!

Yep, it's that dreaded time of the year again. Although this season began back in June we are now starting to see some action. So here is what yesterday was Tropical Storm Ana and no is Tropical Storm Depression and Soon to be Hurricane Bill is right behind her. This is Ryan's first Hurricane Season and my second. I hate it because some times we stay without water or light....which duh sucks.

Wish me luck and please lots of prayers for a tiny island in the Caribbean(Hurricane Central)!

Wordless Wednesday

My peace.

TREASURED TREATS Review

We were excited when Treasured Sweets contacted us about reviewing their products. Over the years as I planned my wedding, baby shower and other parties I always ran into these sort of keepsakes for my guest and those I wanted to share those special moments with. I never did get around to actually ordering any from any one but, I always wondered how they looked in person and what reaction people would have when getting a treasured sweet keepsake.

So, when I got the package I immediately opened it and was in awe of how adorable and fun these personalized mintbooks and candy bars are. I even thought this would be a neat idea to promote a business(my hubby liked these for his business and we are ordering for X-mas).

I made list of people whom I wanted to share these treats with and I personally delivered the treats. Everyone agreed they are too cute and perfect to share.


Over at Treasured Sweets they offer a wide range of custom candy bar wrappers and mintbooks that can personalized to accommodate all your special occasions. Each wrapper is made of the highest quality glossy paper and comes in various designs and styles.

These unique sweets will be treasured long after your party is over!

Personalized candy bar wrappers are fabulous and fun ways to announce the birth of your precious new baby. But that's not all, since their candy bar wrappers are designed with your specific needs in mind, the possibilities are absolutely endless! Baby and Bridal Showers, Weddings (great place cards!), Birthday and Graduation favors. Let's not forget about the Holidays, your little ones will love getting these custom sweets in their Christmas stocking or Easter basket. Need a fundraiser idea? They can help!

PERSONALIZATION IS ALWAYS FREE!
FREE COLOR PROOF BY EMAIL!
FREE COLOR FOILS - CHOOSE FROM 8 COLORS!
NO CHARGE TO ADD A LOGO OR PICTURE!

Treasured Sweets is extremely pleased to be able to bring to you more beautiful choices to personalize your special events or occasions even more. Several designs offer matching products giving your guests a highly customized event at very affordable prices.

Their matchbook size Mintbooks are so beautiful, clever and versatile, it's no wonder why they are one of most popular favor choices today for Weddings, Showers, Birthdays and Graduations. They also make excellent promotional items for business, and fundraiser events.

That's not all, they also have Water bottle Labels, Invitations and so much more!

Visit www.TreasuredSweets.com and let them create "treasured sweet" for you!

P.S. Be on the look out for a GIVEAWAY I am hosting for Treasured Sweets later this month!

I'm It! Picture Tag!

I was Tagged by Xenia @ Thanks, Mail Carrier. She posted a photo of her adorable Little Sister B. I love reading her blog and how her too little girls love each other so much!

Okay So this was the 10th photo of the First Photo Folder. My sister and I have a close relationship and even though we are an ocean apart we try to keep each other informed of our lives(meaning we speak hours a day LOL) and we also are constantly picture mailing each other. I always download the pics to my laptop from my phone just in case I lose my phone I have the pics.

So, this is a picture she sent me of my nieces, Ivory and Sasha. Ivory's(the child in the picture) birthday was actually last Friday....she is a major DIVA. I mean REALLY, she is. She worries so much about her outfits and hair it's so hilarious. Although, her Divaness does get her in a lot of trouble. She sometimes speaks unfiltered. LOL! Last week my mother went to visit her and the first thing that came out of her mouth was, "Hey Culry!" (Yes, my mother has curly hair....this is her grandmother). She got grounded because that is not a nice thing to tell your grandmother. I thought it was rather funny...my mother however did not. I called he later and told her, "Hey Curly!" (No, she did not hang up on me.) she said, "Yeah, whatever". LOL! Sasha is the baby the picture and has become Ivory's "lil project," wants her to be her DIVA APRENTICE. I dunno how to feel about that. We will just have to wait and see.


Now on to the rules of picture tag:

• Open your first photo folder.
• Scroll down to the 10th photo.
• Post that photo and story on your blog.
• Tag three others (or more) friends to do the same.

So,

Angie @ Seven Clown Circus
The Hudson Famly @ One Bored Mommy
Jen @ Born 2 Impress

TAG YOUR IT!

Confession 1

My confession is that's MY HOUSE IS ALWAYS CLEAN. Yep, that right my house is never a mess, EVER LOL! No thanks to me though, it's my hubby whom is a clean freak that demands the house be like that. Think I'm lucky, not so fast. He is a ULTRA SUPER DUPER CLEAN FREAK.....he cleans like no other man I know. Before he goes to work he cleans, and when I wake up there is no mess (great not so....a to do list he LEFT is still pending LOL!). There is never a dirty dish in the sink EVER....his major pet pevee.

Oh but you know what is my PET PEVEE.....his cleanfreakness.....I wish he could just be a bit laid back. Sometimes I want to wake up and mess up the house LOL! Oh, I forgot to mention my truck is SUPER CLEAN.....it has to be washed once a week and when you get out of the truck you can not leave anything, and I mean ANYTHING(he will find it).

I guess there is an upside....since he is so worried about everything being perfect....Nothing is ever missing from the refrigerator or food cabinets he insist they are kept full. GREAT!

Well, that is my confession and I think HUGE dilema!

OOOhhhhh I got a Blog Award!!!

I just got my very first blog award and I am so HAPPY!!!! At least now I know I am not writing for myself...LOL!

I got this Love Ya AWARD from Jackie over at 3 Little Ones. Thank you so much! You have to go and checkout her blog.....she really one very cool mommy and her kids are ADORABLE!

Now for passing some love back into the blogosphere. Here are the rules of this award:

- This award is bestowed on to blogs that are exceedingly charming.
- These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends.
- They are not interested in self-aggrandizement.
- Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated.
- Please give more attention to these writers.
- Deliver this award to six bloggers who must choose six more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award.
- I will pass this award to some of my bloggy friends that I find exceedingly charming...

I have chosen to pass this award to:

Rachelle @ Mommy? I'm Hungry!
Josiah's Mommy @ Confessions of a First Time Mom
Miranda @ Sippycups and FingerPrints
Angie @ My Four Monkeys
Sandy @ Tales from a Shopaholic Mommy
KLawellin @ The Lawellin Family


Thank you for visiting me blog, hehe! I look forward to getting to know my readers even more!

Homemade Food TIps

I am just getting started on this new adventure with my baby boy and I have some tips to share.

1. Make batches of food and store in freezer in servings so that way when you are getting ready to feed baby you have the exact serving you need and you have several for the week.

2. I suggest buying the Ziplock snack bags and put one serving per bag and store in freezer....this works like a charm for me.

3. I have read you can buy some canned foods such as peas. Buy and can of peas and puree it in the blender you'll have enough for one week of veggies for a 4 mo. old and half a week for a 6mo. old.

4. You can also buy some Gerber baby food for the containers so that when you are on the go you have containers to store your food. I think they work great when you are on the go go go and most of us are.

Making your baby home cooked food is not at all as intimidating and most of us think it is. It is actually easy and saves you money. You can cook for your baby just one batch a week and your set for the week. Don't you wish we could do that with hubby??

I encourage all mommies to at LEAST try it one week.

Need new recipes??? Just comment your child's age and how much time you have to cook a meal and I will post a recipe just for your child.

Ryan got second Round of Vaccinations

We were on the way to the doctor's office this morning and he was fast asleep. When we got there the nurses were trying to play with him and he offered a friendly smile but he was so sleepy he dozed off.

We were called in to a room and the doctor greeted us. She started him and solids and so on. Now came the shots. He did not cry for the first one but after the second one it was over for him, he screamed and cried at the top of his lungs. I felt so bad for him. I wanted to run out...LOL!

Needless to say the rest of the day consisted of him at my hip. If I even put him down for a second he screamed. Poor baby!

Worst part????? Well, they did not have two vaccinations and they get here later this week. So early next week we still has two to go. :(