tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86645991850421594182024-03-18T22:52:31.207-05:00Inspiration and Rough DraftsCREATE. WRITE. INSPIRE. // Celebrating creativity and the pursuit of happiness.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.comBlogger285125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-27562129400528435922014-02-07T10:11:00.001-06:002014-02-07T10:11:39.578-06:00Hello again!I have been thinking about this blog a lot lately, even if I haven't been posting. With the holidays and a bunch of work projects, these past couple of months have been busy. But that's only part of the story.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQjlTfTpl0QVp3ajqICuSpw0W5ozyQCSqdoyFCwSNgSNtXsNdy0XxaN_AR9c0P5BTy7YUefN8mBup61lUbriFjB0LMqkPuehNH2PM3igCZFX7kN-B8nIGFTKS4MjaqaO83dg_Ssn8teE/s1600/2014+day+designer+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQjlTfTpl0QVp3ajqICuSpw0W5ozyQCSqdoyFCwSNgSNtXsNdy0XxaN_AR9c0P5BTy7YUefN8mBup61lUbriFjB0LMqkPuehNH2PM3igCZFX7kN-B8nIGFTKS4MjaqaO83dg_Ssn8teE/s1600/2014+day+designer+(5).JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 2014 <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/whitneyenglish">planner</a></td></tr>
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I've also been reflecting on what I want to write about in this space moving forward. After a long day with baby E and a bit of work, I often use the evenings to crank out some writing or just relax with Scott. (E has been going to bed around 7 pm these days and (mostly) sleeping through the night, which is awesome.) I feel like I spend way too much time in front of my computer.<br />
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It also feels like there is so much noise, all this content and sharing and conversations. The benefits of the Internet -- always accessible, lots of information at your fingertips, the opportunity to connect with people you never would otherwise -- are amazing. But they can be overwhelming too.<br />
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When it comes to my blog's direction, I don't have it entirely figured out. You'd think being a writer and helping my clients with content creation and strategy, I'd have a clear focus for my own content. But here, this space, is a bit of a blur between personal and professional. I want to share things that provide value to others and give a peek inside my life.<br />
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With all that Internet noise, it sometimes seems like everything that could be written has been. But I think about what I'd tell my clients: Everyone brings a unique perspective. Your personal story and your experiences and your voice make your content different. What you write has the power to touch other people, to make an impact.<br />
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And that's why I write. It's wonderful to have this blog to record events and memories, but the reason I'm doing so on a public platform is to share my thoughts, make connections, and help other people.<br />
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Awhile back, I added a tagline to my header: celebrating creativity and the pursuit of happiness. I think that still rings true for me, both in life and on this blog. I want to celebrate. I want to be creative. I want to find happiness, fulfillment, joy in the everyday and the extraordinary.<br />
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I hope you'll join me in the journey.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com86tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-24980997536371673802013-11-22T16:23:00.002-06:002013-11-22T16:23:46.116-06:00Carrot Cake... and Other SweetsI didn't mean to take a two-week blogging break, but hey, things happen. Things like a sick baby, work projects, a few appointments and events, and an early Thanksgiving celebration with the in-laws.<br />
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I'll also be taking next week off to spend time with family and celebrate Thanksgiving. But before that, I'm leaving you with a peek at my birthday celebration (which happened at our place earlier this month) <i>and</i> the desserts I made for Scott's family's Thanksgiving gathering.<br />
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Plenty of treats to satisfy any sweet tooth!<br />
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My birthday was a low-key afternoon party with desserts and drinks. I served up a spread of <a href="http://www.inspirationandroughdrafts.com/2011/01/our-new-years-eve-celebration.html">puppy chow</a>, <a href="http://www.inspirationandroughdrafts.com/2013/02/connecting-and-disconnecting.html">compost cookies</a>, <a href="http://www.inspirationandroughdrafts.com/2011/10/fall-football-with-friends.html">pumpkin bars</a>, <a href="http://www.inspirationandroughdrafts.com/2012/02/baby-shower-celebrating-upcoming.html">chocolate chip cheeseball</a>, and a banana cake with chocolate icing (just used a box cake mix and added an over-ripe banana to the batter).<br />
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And for Scott's family party, I made <a href="http://www.inspirationandroughdrafts.com/2011/10/fall-football-with-friends.html">oatmeal carmelitas</a> and a carrot cake. Lots of butter in the bars... and lots of sugar in the cake... so very good.<br />
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<u><b>Carrot Cake</b></u><br />
Recipe from my mom<br />
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Ingredients:<br />
4 eggs<br />
2 cups sugar<br />
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil<br />
2 cups flour<br />
2 to 3 tsp. ground cinnamon<br />
1 tsp. baking powder<br />
1 tsp. baking soda<br />
1/4 tsp. salt<br />
1/4 tsp. nutmeg<br />
2 cups grated carrots<br />
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<i>Frosting:</i><br />
1/2 cup butter or margarine<br />
3 oz. cream cheese<br />
3 3/4 cups powdered sugar<br />
1 tsp. vanilla<br />
2 to 3 Tbsp milk<br />
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In mixing bowl, combine eggs, sugar, and oil; mix well. Combine flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg. Beat into eggs mixture. Stir in carrots. Pour into 2 greased and floured 9-inch round pans. Bake 35 to 40 minutes at 350 degrees or until toothpick comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes before removing from pans.<br />
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Frosting: Cream butter and cream cheese. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla. Add enough milk to desired consistency. Frost cake (I chose to only frost the top of each layer). Garnish with a few grated carrots if desired. Refrigerate.<br />
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Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com69tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-16304368411459224552013-11-06T13:11:00.001-06:002013-11-06T13:11:27.044-06:00A Writer's MindsetJust popping in today (<i>on my birthday!</i>) to announce this month's newsletter theme.<br />
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During November, <a href="http://sarahkocischeilz.wordpress.com/">Sarah</a> and I will be sharing some of our tips and strategies for getting into a good writing mindset -- how to stay motivated, ward off procrastination, feel confident, and be productive.<br />
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It's these little things that can make a big difference in the quality of writing you produce. As I have said before, there is no "perfect" time to write -- but a positive mindset and a good working environment will help you do your best work.<br />
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If you haven't signed up yet, you can do so <a href="http://www.melrosestreetcustomcontent.com/newsletter">here</a>. The first newsletter of the month arrives in inboxes tomorrow (Thursday) morning. Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-54672351500410645352013-11-05T16:18:00.001-06:002013-11-05T16:18:58.859-06:00Give It Time: The Crazy, Strange Postpartum PeriodI've been thinking about writing this post for weeks now. About a month after becoming a mom, I came across <a href="http://www.theatlantic.com/sexes/archive/2013/04/before-i-forget-what-nobody-remembers-about-new-motherhood/274981/">this article</a> on those first blurry weeks with a newborn. Reading it, I felt like I wasn't alone. (Seriously, if you're a new mom,<i> read it!</i>)<br />
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Having a baby is a wonderful blessing, but I don't think we talk enough about how rough the first weeks and months can be. Perhaps it's because we're in survival mode then, and by the time we emerge, we've already forgotten how truly disorienting it was.<br />
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For me, I felt like a different person. I'd been so focused on labor and delivery that I didn't give much thought to recovery. I remember looking in the bathroom mirror at the hospital at my body after giving birth and thinking, is this really me? Thanks to Duchess Kate, I knew my belly would still be there and slowly shrink down over time, but I didn't feel like myself.<br />
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The night my milk came in, I cried -- partly from the pain of rock-hard boobs and partly because I was so hormonal. I remember saying to my mom and Scott, "I feel so out of control." My body didn't feel like my own. Everything was so different.<br />
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Physically, I was in pain from giving birth and adjusting to breastfeeding. I was sleep-deprived and my hormones were out of whack. I was sweating all the time. My breasts felt full constantly. When Evelyn would fall asleep, I'd race to take a shower. Getting clean felt good, but the water hurt my sore nipples and I'd have to carefully towel off and quickly get dressed before I started leaking milk. I let my hair air-dry and didn't have time to put make-up on. I'd eat a PB&J for lunch. On top of it all, I was trying to learn how to take care of a newborn.<br />
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Some days, I felt like all I did was sit on the couch and hold Evelyn, nursing her and trying to get her to sleep. I couldn't get anything done around the house -- and I couldn't imagine how it would get to the point where I ever would! Doing one load of laundry was a huge feat. Getting out of the house was a gigantic accomplishment.<br />
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Many times, usually in the middle of the night, I wondered if Evelyn would be an only child. <br />
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I distinctly remember running a quick errand by myself, while Scott
watched the baby at home, and feeling like I was separate from the world. It
was as if everyone was still living their lives as usual and mine had
completely changed. It was surreal and bizarre and uncomfortable.<br />
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Everyone kept telling me, "Give it time." It was hard to be patient. I wanted to savor all the little moments, but I also wanted to fast forward a bit.<br />
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And then somewhere around four weeks postpartum, I made it to the pediatrician with Evelyn on my own and then went to Buy Buy Baby to pick up a few things. The whole outing went pretty smoothly. By that point, I wasn't in as much pain and my milk had regulated so my breasts didn't feel so full all the time. I started to feel a little more confident. I could put the baby down and she wouldn't cry immediately, so I could get a thing or two done -- make lunch, do some laundry, unload the dishwasher. It felt like a small turning point.<br />
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Slowly, things started to get better. I felt better. I felt more like myself. A different version but myself.<br />
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I'm still wearing yoga pants most days and rarely dry my hair or put on make-up. I still have stretch marks on my hips and a belly that pooches out even though I'm almost back to my pre-pregnancy weight. I still have some pelvic pain (which is a bit unusual and something I'm working through). I still can't get as much done as I used to. And I'm still slightly sleep-deprived.<br />
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But I can get out of the house to run errands, take a walk, or go to the grocery store with Evelyn. I'm more comfortable with her. We have a routine of sorts. I take a shower every day, make myself lunch, get things done around the house, and I've even been squeezing in work during nap time. We're getting more sleep. I feel more in control.<br />
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And let me tell you, the sweet baby smiles really make everything worth it. <i>Melt my heart.</i><br />
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Life is definitely different, but I can already see that the craziness of those early weeks is in the past. I'm settling into a new normal -- a <i>wonderful</i> new normal. I'm trying to let go and cut myself some slack. I'm recognizing how amazing my body is for producing this new life and serving as her source of food. I'm noting the small victories. And I know I'm still in the midst of adjusting. Things will continue to change. They will continue to get better.<br />
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It's difficult to put it all into words, but I wanted to share my experience, not to scare anyone but to let other new moms know they are not alone. We don't talk enough about what happens after the baby arrives. It's <i>hard</i>. But I'm here to tell you, it does get better. Give it time. Give it time...Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-6303557605876131322013-10-15T15:11:00.000-05:002013-10-15T16:41:11.395-05:00Why We're Using Cloth Diapers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Some people thought I was crazy to consider using cloth diapers. The usual visual is something involving folding and pins and leaks and lots of poop. But trust me, a surprising number of people use cloth diapers these days. And it's not as complicated or messy as it seems.<br />
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First, I did my research. I Facebook-messaged a couple of girls I went to high school with who are successfully cloth diapering to ask some initial questions (huge thank you for your help!). I read through websites and blogs to get more information. I dragged Scott to a class at a local <a href="http://www.bebybaby.com/">baby boutique</a> so we could see and feel all the necessary supplies and possible options. What seemed overwhelming and confusing at first started to sound totally do-able.<br />
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I made sure Scott was on board (all I had to do was calculate the cost savings ha!) and we decided to make it easy on ourselves by using <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Odorless-Cloth-Diaper-Pail-gallon/dp/B0053Y2B6E/">BumGenius 4.0 one-size pocket diapers</a>. They look a lot like disposable diapers with a microfiber insert that you stuff inside. With all the snaps, they adjust to fit babies from 8 to 35 pounds. The initial investment can be steep, but it definitely pays off. We registered for what we would need and were blessed to receive many of the items at our showers or through using gift cards.<br />
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There are tons of benefits of cloth diapering (good for the environment, less diaper rash for baby, fewer blowouts, super cute colors, etc), but the #1 reason we decided to move forward was the cost savings.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hope she doesn't kill me when she's older for posting this... but it's too cute!</td></tr>
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We used disposables for the first five weeks or so, until we got the hang of things and Evelyn grew a bit (the one-size diapers are a little big for newborns). We're still using disposables at night but might eventually venture into using cloth and double up on the inserts to increase the absorbency.<br />
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So far, we're loving our cloth diapers! We use <a href="http://www.amazon.com/GroVia-Cloth-Wipes-12-count/dp/B003X3R6TO/">cloth wipes</a> with a little water on them, so we just shake the insert out of the dirty diaper and into the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Odorless-Cloth-Diaper-Pail-gallon/dp/B0053Y2B6E/">pail</a>, throw the diaper and cloth wipes in, and we're done. We also use a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Planet-Wise-Diaper-Pail-Liner/dp/B0039ODMNQ/">Planet Wise diaper pail liner</a> (we have two to rotate) which can be tossed in the washer along with the dirty diapers (no need to touch anything nasty!). Everything gets a cold rinse (to cut down on staining), a hot wash cycle with cloth diaper-friendly <a href="http://www.pinstripesandpolkadots.com/detergentchoices.htm">detergent</a>, and another cold rinse (to get all the detergent out). Then the inserts and wipes go in the dryer and the diapers air-dry on the rack. Once everything is dry, we stuff the inserts back into the diapers and they are ready to go. We have 20 diapers and 36 wipes and do laundry every 2-3 days. (I feel like I keep saying "we" but Scott is just as involved with diapering and laundry as I am!)<br />
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We also have cloth diaper-friendly <a href="http://www.amazon.com/CJs-BUTTer-Tube-Unscented/dp/B005NB3K2G/">diaper cream</a> on hand (regular creams can cause repelling and affect absorbency). Once E starts solid food, we have a <a href="http://www.buybuybaby.com/store/product/cotton-babies-reg-bumgenius-diaper-sprayer/1040681405">diaper sprayer</a> to attach to the toilet in case we need to get rid of some of the mess before throwing it in the pail, or we can use <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bummis-BL-L-Bio-Soft-Liner-Large/dp/B0025YWL4W/">liners</a> which we can peel out and toss or flush, but while she's exclusively breastfed, we don't have to worry about that. When we're out and about, we usually use disposables, but we have used cloth and just bring a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Planet-Wise-Washable-Reusable-Swimwear/dp/B006G1MXNE/">wet bag</a> along to stash dirty diapers.<br />
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There is so much information on brands and products and different washing processes, but if you cut through all of that, it isn't as complicated as it sounds. I'm just starting out, so things may change and I'm sure I'll learn as I go, but at this point, I'm happy to answer questions if any of you are thinking about using cloth!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-4994085497160033632013-10-08T14:51:00.000-05:002013-10-08T14:51:03.399-05:00The Nursery RevealHere's the long-overdue nursery reveal!<br />
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I took these photos pre-baby, but we've found that the layout works really well now that we're actually using it. We're constantly trying to make the most of our space, tucking things in the drawers, under-crib storage, changing table baskets, and "overflow" corner of the room.<br />
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Many of the accessories are from HomeGoods/TJMaxx/Marshall's. The bedding and mobile are from Pottery Barn Kids (we later added white black-out curtains from PBK too). And the rug is from Rugs USA. If you are curious about sources for anything specific, just ask!<br />
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The final result is functional and cute... if I say so myself! What do you think?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxge6gscSbanpe3hFVVcVLG5mMIjDPSxqnpAcaSIc4J3mf5cEXIeATtcCTnOGJ11seQZ3n1GlMGIlqGIZ2iNORdDs2gOVDwwlX_rqJfbJkOpBLBz20rbuCxEpJLFHBJAjAcNuB9GRlGWo/s1600/nursery+(10).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxge6gscSbanpe3hFVVcVLG5mMIjDPSxqnpAcaSIc4J3mf5cEXIeATtcCTnOGJ11seQZ3n1GlMGIlqGIZ2iNORdDs2gOVDwwlX_rqJfbJkOpBLBz20rbuCxEpJLFHBJAjAcNuB9GRlGWo/s640/nursery+(10).JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Family wedding pictures -- we displayed these at our wedding reception in 2010!</td></tr>
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-37866477850583744792013-10-04T12:28:00.000-05:002013-10-04T12:34:44.303-05:0014 Must-Have Items for the First Month with a NewbornWhen building my registries, I looked to other moms for their recommendations and read through tons of reviews online. But I also knew I couldn't anticipate how the baby would like things or what would work well for our family, our space, and our lifestyle.<br />
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Now that it's been a few weeks, these are what I consider to be our "must-haves" for the first month -- the things I would <i>highly</i> recommend. Other people may or may not agree, but in case these items could help make someone else's life easier, I just had to share!<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Newborn-Rock-Sleeper-Yellow/dp/B002M77N22">Fisher-Price Rock 'n Play Sleeper</a></b><br />
Evelyn sleeps really well in this sleeper (and has since day one!). It's nice that it folds up, moves easily from room to room, and keeps her feeling snug and secure.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Blanket-Yellow-Aqua-Swaddle/dp/B000MUA5DK/">Miracle Blanket</a></b><br />
This blanket makes it easy to get a tight swaddle and keeps Evelyn calm so she can
sleep soundly. And the special arm flaps prevent her from wiggling out
of her wrap.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.carters.com/s/Carters/carters-baby-boy-little-layette-multi-pack-bodysuits/886149305905.html?cm_mmc=ip_Carters-_-Google-_-Carters_Baby_Girl_bodysuits-_-886149305905&KPID=886149305905">Basic white onesies</a></b><br />
We go through these onesies like water. With all the spit-up going on, sometimes it doesn't make sense to put her in a super cute outfit every day!<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/OsoCozy-Prefolds-Bleached-Cloth-Diapers/dp/B004EWGDJC/">Cloth diapers</a> as burp cloths</b><br />
You can't beat cloth diapers for their absorbency. We use these all the time for spit-up, bubbles, drool, etc.<br />
<br />
<b>Aden + Anais <a href="http://www.amazon.com/aden-anais-Muslin-Little-Lifes/dp/B009S4NN62/">bibs</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/aden-anais-Muslin-Swaddle-Blanket/dp/B002US8D5Y/">swaddle blankets</a></b><br />
These bibs catch any dribble as Evelyn nurses or spit-up afterwards. And the lightweight blankets are great for keeping her warm while she naps, shielding the sun out of her eyes, and covering her while we're out and about.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/My-Brest-Friend-Pillow-Sunburst/dp/B000HZEQSU/">My Brest Friend</a> nursing pillow</b><br />
The Boppy works, but I really like My Brest Friend for nursing. The flatter surface keeps Evelyn supported and allows me to have a hand (or two!) free.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.bravadodesigns.com/shop/the-body-silk-seamless-nursing-bra">Bravado nursing bra</a></b><br />
This style is comfy and stretchy but supportive, which is great in the early days when you're sore and your size is changing.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="https://www.lansinoh.com/products/hpa-lanolin">Lanolin cream</a></b><br />
Breastfeeding is wonderful for babies, but it hurts at first... This helps soothe the pain! <br />
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<b><a href="https://www.lansinoh.com/products/disposable-nursing-pads">Lansinoh disposable nursing pads</a></b><br />
No leaks, keeps my skin dry, not too bulky!<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Carters-Keep-Flannel-Pads-Green/dp/B002UD65ZY/">Carter's Keep Me Dry lap pads</a></b><br />
We keep one of these on the changing pad to protect the cover from accidents. That way, we just toss the lap pad in the wash, rather than have to change out the whole cover every time.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Happiest-Baby-Block-DVD/dp/0972179526">"The Happiest Baby on the Block" DVD</a></b><br />
I
read the book too, but for my husband who doesn't like reading, this (short)
DVD was wonderful. It covers soothing techniques that really work! We
watched it at the end of my pregnancy and it gave us some go-to moves
for when Evelyn was fussy or crying.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.buybuybaby.com/1/1/7119-baby-room-decor-homedics-soundspa-sound-machine-green.html">White noise machine</a></b><br />
They say the womb is as loud as a vacuum cleaner so babies often need (loud) white noise to calm down or sleep peacefully. (I also came across some moms online who swear by this <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQUjMtQRUbg">YouTube video</a>. While the video is creepy, the sound has snapped Evelyn out of crying episodes and quieted her down quickly!) <br />
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Cradle-Swing-Little-Snugabunny/dp/B0042D69WY/">Fisher-Price Cradle 'n Swing</a></b><br />
Okay, we just bought this last weekend, so we didn't have it the first month. But I wish we had! I resisted getting a swing since it takes up more room than other baby gadgets, but Evelyn loves being jiggled and rocked so we decided to go for the swing... and it was a <i>great</i> move! Plus when she dozes off, I can hop into the shower, eat lunch, or get a few things done.<br />
<a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/2013/02/10-slow-cooker-freezer-meals-in-less.html"><br /></a>
<b><a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/2013/02/10-slow-cooker-freezer-meals-in-less.html">Crockpot freezer meals</a></b><br />
My mom stocked our freezer while she was here the first week after Evelyn was born. These recipes are super simple and only have a handful of ingredients, so I'm actually making a few more now that we've finished the ones my mom made. Pull a meal out of the freezer, thaw in the fridge for 24 hours, then toss in the crockpot for a few hours, and dinner is hot and ready!<br />
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<b><i>Am I missing any other must-have items for those first few weeks?</i></b>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-63787063475627655952013-10-02T12:30:00.000-05:002013-10-02T12:30:00.716-05:00What Not to DoDuring my days with Evelyn, I often have the TV on for background noise or to watch a show here and there. Lots of reality shows and HGTV!<br />
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One of the shows I sometimes watch is "What Not to Wear." While the people on that show are given rules and guidelines about what TO wear, the title of the show speaks to their old wardrobe -- what <i>doesn't</i> work.<br />
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This month in our Create.Compose.Communicate newsletters, <a href="http://www.sarahkocischeilz.com/">Sarah</a> and I are taking a similar approach and sharing <i>what not to do</i> when writing. We'll cover the "don'ts" when it comes to blogs, newsletters, presentations, and sales copy, so you can avoid the common missteps and mistakes and make your writing shine.<br />
<br />
If you haven't signed up yet, hop over to my <a href="http://www.melrosestreetcustomcontent.com/newsletter">writing website</a> and do it now! The first newsletter of the month arrives in inboxes tomorrow (Thursday).<br />
<br />
<i>Now that it's October, my maternity leave is wrapping up and I'm taking on work again. Balancing a baby and my own business will be a new challenge, but I'm excited to get back to writing! </i>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-33854529413067340772013-09-25T12:47:00.001-05:002013-09-25T13:13:45.101-05:00What I Packed in My Hospital BagIn the last weeks of my pregnancy, I read through many hospital bag checklists on websites, blogs, and online forums. I compared them to figure out the most common must-haves and then decided which of the other items I thought I might need or want.<br />
<br />
Since these lists were a helpful starting point for me, I figured I'd share what I packed, what I actually used, and what I didn't use during my two-day hospital stay. If and when I go for my next time around, I'd probably bring most of this again.<br />
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<i><b>What I brought and used:</b></i><br />
Wallet with ID and insurance card<br />
Cord blood donation documents<br />
Contact solution and case<br />
Face wash (might be helpful to bring facial wipes if you don't want to get out of bed)<br />
Travel shampoo/conditioner/body wash<br />
Hair bands and bobby pins<br />
Make-up<br />
Hairbrush<br />
Hair dryer (they had one there, similar to a hotel one, but I liked using my own)<br />
Phone charger <br />
Bathrobe<br />
Flip-flops <br />
Shorts and tank top (wore these to the hospital)<br />
Maternity yoga pants<br />
Nursing top<br />
Nursing bras <br />
Nursing pads<br />
Lanolin nipple cream<br />
Snacks (!!!)<br />
<a href="http://www.inspirationandroughdrafts.com/2013/08/getting-crafty-diy-for-babys-arrival.html">Treats for the L&D nurses</a> (next time, I might bring something for the postpartum nurses too)<br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>What I brought but didn't use:</b></i><br />
Hospital pre-registration forms (in case they didn't get them when we faxed them over)<i><b> </b></i><br />
Glasses<br />
Hair straightener<br />
Socks<br />
Nightgown with buttons down the front (easy access for nursing)<br />
Nursing tank<br />
Maxi dress<br />
Underwear<br />
Maxi pads<br />
Towel<br />
A couple of magazines <br />
<br />
<i><b>What I brought for baby and used:</b></i><br />
Pacifier<br />
Long-sleeve gown<br />
<br />
<i><b>What I brought for baby but didn't use:</b></i><br />
Baby wipes<br />
Nail file (for baby's nails)<br />
Hat<br />
Socks<br />
Swaddle blankets (2)<br />
Legwarmers<br />
Mitts<br />
Onesie<br />
Pants<br />
Long-sleeve top<br />
Pajamas<br />
<br />
Scott brought his <i><b>laptop and camera</b></i> with their chargers, as well as a bag of clothes and toiletries.<br />
<br />
I packed all of those options for the baby because I wasn't sure what I'd want to use as a "going home" outfit. I chose the gown because it had little fold-over sleeves to keep Evelyn from scratching herself and it didn't rub her umbilical cord stump. During our stay, she just wore a long-sleeve top, diaper, receiving blanket, and hat, all provided by the hospital.<br />
<br />
As for me, I wore loose shorts and a maternity tank top to the hospital and ended up wearing those shorts under my bathrobe the day after delivery. (Funny, I thought I'd wear a real outfit, not sweats/lounging clothes, to the hospital, but when it came time to go, I was not feeling like changing... I just wanted to get there!) Otherwise, I stayed in the hospital gown most of the time because I didn't want to get my clothes sweaty or stained (same reason I used the hospital's towels and mesh underwear). I wore the maternity yoga pants and a nursing top on the way home. <br />
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One more tip: Make sure your significant other can carry most of the bags/stuff on his own. We pulled up and valeted our car when we arrived, so we didn't have far to walk, but in the midst of contractions, I only wanted to carry our little bag of snacks and the treats for the nurses into the hospital (if I remember correctly... ha!). My stuff and the items for the baby were in two large tote bags, and Scott carried those, along with his own bag, so I was glad I didn't over-pack.<br />
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Hope this helps any of you expectant mamas out there! Moms -- anything you would add to the list?Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-55997964515677626652013-09-18T13:26:00.000-05:002013-09-18T13:26:11.564-05:00Guest Post on Inspiration-Driven Life: What Having a Baby Taught Me About My MarriageSarah invited me to contribute to her Wedded Wednesdays guest series, in which bloggers share a glimpse of what marriage really looks like.<br />
<br />
For me, my marriage is currently entering a new phase as we take on our roles as parents. We are five weeks in... and we're experiencing so many changes.<br />
<br />
Hop over to Sarah's blog to find out <a href="http://sarahkocischeilz.wordpress.com/2013/09/18/what-having-a-baby-taught-me-about-my-marriage-wedded-wednesdays-guest-post/">what having a baby taught me about my marriage</a>.<br />
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-31451553514826876152013-09-10T11:51:00.000-05:002013-09-10T12:05:28.962-05:00The Business with Intention Workshop at HomeThis spring, I was honored to contribute to one of <a href="http://jesslively.com/">Jess Lively</a>'s "secret projects." She's created an amazing resource for entrepreneurs in their first year of business -- the <a href="http://www.with-intention.com/business/#workshops-at-home">Business with Intention Workshop at Home</a>.<br />
<br />
Let me tell you, the content provided in this Workshop at Home is
incredible. The workbook, the videos, everything. Not only does Jess
have great insights to share, but the other business owners she
interviews also draw from their own experiences to give real, practical advice.<br />
<br />
In my portion of the video, I share my top tips for creating content that reflects your brand and resonates with your ideal customer, whether it's on your website, within your newsletters and blog posts, or through any communication channel you use!<br />
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Doing a video interview was a new and exciting experience for me. I calmed the butterflies with a good amount of preparation and it ended up being <i>a lot</i> of fun! (It was also Evelyn's video debut as I was 26 weeks pregnant at the time of the shoot!)<br />
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If you are an entrepreneur or looking to start a business, I encourage you to check out the <a href="http://www.with-intention.com/business/#workshops-at-home">Business with Intention Workshop at Home</a>! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A quick picture with Jess after filming.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A peek at the gorgeous set!</td></tr>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-76349014900017550052013-09-04T15:35:00.001-05:002013-09-10T14:28:15.275-05:00Three Elements You Need to Become a Better WriterWell, I'm posting a quick note to share this month's newsletter theme.<br />
<br />
Life with a newborn is a little crazy (okay, really crazy!). It's all about feeding, burping, changing diapers, changing onesies, doing laundry, swaddling, rocking... while trying to eat, shower, and sleep when we can. But gazing into our baby's eyes, watching her sleep, smelling that soft, sweet baby smell... those little things makes it worth it.<br />
<br />
So to get straight to the point of this post... In this month's Create.Compose.Communicate newsletters, <a href="http://sarahkocischeilz.wordpress.com/">Sarah</a> and I will be sharing three elements you need to cultivate to become a better writer (and some easy ways to do so!). And like the name of our newsletter, they all happen to begin with the letter C. <i>Any guesses?</i><br />
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The first newsletter of the month arrives in inboxes tomorrow (Thursday) morning, so be sure to <a href="http://www.melrosestreetcustomcontent.com/newsletter">sign up</a> now if you haven't already!<br />
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I hope to be back to posting in the near future -- lots to share!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-65089188325518954692013-08-23T12:40:00.002-05:002013-08-23T12:40:57.319-05:00It's a Girl!Scott and I welcomed a daughter into the world on Wednesday, August 14 at 6:49 am. Evelyn Grace arrived on her due date, weighing 7 pounds 7 ounces and measuring 20 inches long.<br />
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We're so in love and treasuring every moment. There are many ups and downs as we adjust to parenthood, but it's such a blessing to have this sweet little girl in our lives!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsCEyHeoqnZoZSJEF18C4d-9BUXGFYPPgwqhL1l4R_uTknY1UJi5xeBnOs9DbZIHTprPrspvlXlZo5WXfBivgQU8kIUyD94GL3M96BfJc4YRN5wvqPogssYF-eWAtuStNKpNYOpDxN3g/s1600/1102413_10100931555542077_871345474_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsCEyHeoqnZoZSJEF18C4d-9BUXGFYPPgwqhL1l4R_uTknY1UJi5xeBnOs9DbZIHTprPrspvlXlZo5WXfBivgQU8kIUyD94GL3M96BfJc4YRN5wvqPogssYF-eWAtuStNKpNYOpDxN3g/s640/1102413_10100931555542077_871345474_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy birthday!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcdyjbSj2uns4ldS0OIbPKECvjcdXZX9YV7IMQ5PgpDCtwZ-NYjU_cPLEYX4ZMWuER0rQk32focxH56TdA4_AwXhr8qy-cDaqe46gICO17JWnJgUWCLAzCWInOup1LtO0aJpYyOfHFcP8/s1600/1146480_10151666550566859_2123788352_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcdyjbSj2uns4ldS0OIbPKECvjcdXZX9YV7IMQ5PgpDCtwZ-NYjU_cPLEYX4ZMWuER0rQk32focxH56TdA4_AwXhr8qy-cDaqe46gICO17JWnJgUWCLAzCWInOup1LtO0aJpYyOfHFcP8/s640/1146480_10151666550566859_2123788352_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading home from the hospital</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNAsl4eY1xvPxldbsVRvdYjNtMlIjUFShGiaVHA4-jyZXfitRdwIbrLEsSmvsxAV7ZEWdWqPRllcFOC1gYGW_qAYxEH451K-PaOllS0-bc4LfVX7Talg5rwjWZLM95sKx9jHkXQChBJ8/s1600/cookies.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNAsl4eY1xvPxldbsVRvdYjNtMlIjUFShGiaVHA4-jyZXfitRdwIbrLEsSmvsxAV7ZEWdWqPRllcFOC1gYGW_qAYxEH451K-PaOllS0-bc4LfVX7Talg5rwjWZLM95sKx9jHkXQChBJ8/s640/cookies.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A cute cookie bouquet from Scott's work</td></tr>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-14633880138231695032013-08-09T15:12:00.002-05:002013-08-09T15:12:59.024-05:00On WaitingWe're five days away from my due date, so the waiting game is on. I've been enjoying a low-key week of resting, reading, (a little) organizing, and seeing friends. (I even read <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Fault-Stars-John-Green/dp/0525478817">a whole book</a> in one day -- that's not going to happen again for a very long time!)<br />
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It's nice to have downtime before the baby arrives, but it's also a strange feeling... the anticipation, uncertainty, excitement.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2U4dn0EaevqBPFq1hJyItBpmlGFqz6KvLQWNMW3y5MqBSBwLJL4WmfA6F5v6GeOed7Z7lCzipt_jXUPFTOcIu7Lsmmzm_kaLkWg1sSOrEz1GAUK4Zdvt96U9M36gO_hMaUjgDtQsLnR0/s1600/nursery+(9).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2U4dn0EaevqBPFq1hJyItBpmlGFqz6KvLQWNMW3y5MqBSBwLJL4WmfA6F5v6GeOed7Z7lCzipt_jXUPFTOcIu7Lsmmzm_kaLkWg1sSOrEz1GAUK4Zdvt96U9M36gO_hMaUjgDtQsLnR0/s640/nursery+(9).JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Full nursery reveal is coming soon!</td></tr>
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I think we're as ready as we'll ever be. So I'm trying to stay focused on the present and savor these quiet moments and not feel like I'm wasting time, not wish the time away. It's so hard to not count down days and wonder when things are going to happen, when my life is going to change so completely, when I'll get to see and hold this little being, this part of me, who has been growing and moving inside me for months now.<br />
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I'm restless at night, waking up again and again, having trouble falling back to sleep, eating a bowl of cereal and reading on the couch before going back to bed. I can feel my body making progress, preparing, and sometimes I wonder, <i>is this it? Is today the day?</i><br />
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And while I'm excited for what's to come, I'm nervous too. Labor, delivery, taking care of a newborn. No one can predict how these will go. After nine months, it's very surreal too, to live out these moments that I've imagined and looked forward to and tried to picture, tried to wrap my mind around. But until the time comes, they are just my best guesses.<br />
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This is all a new experience, something I've never done and something that won't happen in the same way again. I feel ready and not ready. I'm waiting, praying, trusting, taking each moment as it comes.<br />
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-65432223893053620992013-08-06T15:10:00.001-05:002013-08-06T15:10:39.485-05:00Getting Crafty: DIY for Baby's ArrivalWoo! Last week felt like finals week around here. I was cranking out a bunch of client work with the goal of having a little downtime before the baby arrives. Mission accomplished!<br />
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I still have enough to keep me busy (to-do lists are never really complete) but I'm feeling less anxious on the work front. And with all the extra effort, it was my best month yet income-wise (let's forget about the fact that I won't be working for the next few weeks and go with it!).<br />
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In the midst of the writing and editing, I got some baby prep done, including a couple of crafty little projects. First up, I wanted to make a fun sign for the door to our condo unit to announce "it's a boy" or "it's a girl." It's an easy way to share the news with our neighbors and to decorate for our visitors.<br />
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But I didn't feel like spending a lot, and I had an idea in my mind of a simple, not-too-cheesy sign. Rather than order something, I decided to visit Michael's and get inspired. I picked up four sheets of scrapbook paper: pink, pink sparkle, blue, and blue sparkle. Total cost: about $4. After a little cutting and gluing, here's the result of my DIY efforts:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAbYqJbWjx6wYQD59hGJwkOZArLx16so6BPURy7BBb8vN6Z-JpfqLnotFuuq3iK9LS5i-RwPUc7Tw1VrPmjY7aLYaJZdC-lMMc7p2sR2F3tDw9BakGo31_ANSyQjYX29oSj_hZLJztZ50/s1600/DIY+baby+signs+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAbYqJbWjx6wYQD59hGJwkOZArLx16so6BPURy7BBb8vN6Z-JpfqLnotFuuq3iK9LS5i-RwPUc7Tw1VrPmjY7aLYaJZdC-lMMc7p2sR2F3tDw9BakGo31_ANSyQjYX29oSj_hZLJztZ50/s640/DIY+baby+signs+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And for my second project... I'd heard about people bringing a treat for the hospital nurses when they go in to deliver their babies, which I thought was a nice gesture. My dad is a family physician and two of my sisters are studying to become nurses, so I know first-hand how hard those in health care work -- and they do a lot of things I wouldn't ever want to do, all to help people get and stay well. A little thank you goes a long way.<br />
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So I picked up an extra-large "Chinese takeout" box from Michael's and filled it with a bunch of full-sized candy bars (it would have taken a lot of fun-sized ones to fill the box and hey, who doesn't love a big ol' candy bar?). A piece of notepad paper and ribbon were all I needed to craft a note and finish it off. Total cost = about $20.<br />
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I reach 39 weeks tomorrow, so we're getting really close! Any day now...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">38 weeks!</td></tr>
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-77606463706830405692013-07-31T08:00:00.000-05:002013-07-31T08:00:02.647-05:00How to Handle Sticky SituationsSince becoming a business owner, I've become very aware of the fact that how I conduct business is completely up to me. This freedom is empowering and exhilarating... until I encounter a situation I'm not sure how to handle.<br />
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You know... those instances when you aren't sure what the best course of action is. You're left to brainstorm options, evaluate the pros and cons, make a decision, and move forward, whether you feel confident about it or not. But that makes it sound a lot easier than it really is.<br />
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When it comes to writing, we often think of the solitary writer, hunkered down in front of his or her computer. But in reality, writing involves more than just the writer. Readers, clients, collaborative partners, and lots of other people are a part of the process. And while that provides an opportunity for wonderful business relationships and creative conversations, it also opens the door for some sticky situations.<br />
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Tomorrow is the first day of August -- a month that's notoriously hot and sticky. So <a href="http://www.sarahkocischeilz.com/">Sarah</a> and I felt it was an appropriate time to address some "sticky situations" in our weekly writing newsletters. We'll be covering topics that are often tricky to navigate: communicating with tough clients, determining boundaries for what you share, contracts and setting expectations, and pricing and negotiations.<br />
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If you're not yet signed up, hop over to my <a href="http://www.melrosestreetcustomcontent.com/newsletter">website</a> to subscribe. The first newsletter of the month arrives in inboxes tomorrow (Thursday)!<br />
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<i>P.S. The past couple of weeks have been busy with work projects, baby
preparations, and fun with friends. It feels like I'm trying to cram in
as much as possible before this baby's arrival. I'm so (soooo!) excited
to meet him or her, but the planner in me is having trouble not knowing
when exactly that will be. </i><br />
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<i>In the meantime, life is busy enough to keep
me distracted from the fact that I actually have to give birth to this
bundle of joy... I'm hoping to post a few fun updates after I wrap up the last of my work projects, so stay tuned, my friends!</i>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-68263763892527506332013-07-16T16:17:00.001-05:002013-07-16T16:17:33.760-05:00Cooking and BakingI've tried several new recipes over the past months and thought I'd share. My go-to resource for simple, quick recipes: <i>Taste of Home</i>. My mom has been getting the magazine for years and bought me a subscription. I also reference the website on a fairly regular basis.<br />
<a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/apple-chicken-quesadillas"><br /></a>
<b><a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/apple-chicken-quesadillas">Apple Chicken Quesadillas</a></b><br />
Good sweet + savory combination. Though tasty, these quesadillas fell apart a little too easily. I'm thinking more cheese might prevent that from happening in the future. (Isn't "more cheese" always the answer?!)<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Garlicky-Beef---Tomatoes-with-Pasta">Garlicky Beef and Tomato Pasta</a></b><br />
A hearty meal that Scott liked. I think I was hoping for a little more flavor though. My shortcut: canned spinach.<br />
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(Another garlic + beef + tomato combo that we both <i>loved</i>: <b><a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/garlic-beef-enchiladas">Garlic Beef Enchiladas</a></b>... sorry, forgot to snap a photo!)<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/caramel-brownies">Caramel Brownies</a></b><br />
My addition to the Fourth of July dessert spread (dense, fudgy, and rich -- my favorite kind of brownie!). They were pretty easy to whip up too, but the caramels did take awhile to melt over low heat.<br />
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I also made some <a href="http://www.inspirationandroughdrafts.com/2011/12/holiday-cookie-exchange.html">Reese's bars</a> from a recipe my family has been making for forever.<br />
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<a href="https://www.tasteofhome.com/Subscriber-Exclusive-Access/Join-or-Log-In?ReturnURL=/Recipes/Salsa-Skillet-Pork-Chops">Salsa Skillet Pork Chops</a><br />
Great flavor and mix of meat + veggies + beans. We both liked this one and it was one of the easiest dinner recipes I've tried recently.<br />
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<i>(Looks like the link is now requiring a subscriber sign-in... but you can find it in the current June/July issue too. The basic recipe: salt and pepper 6 pork loin chops -- or I used cutlets; brown on both sides in a skillet; then add 2 c. corn, 15 oz. pinto beans, and 1 1/4 c. chunky salsa plus a little water and a teaspoon of cumin; simmer, covered, for 6-8 minutes.)</i><br />
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And this one isn't Taste of Home, but this simple steak salad and side of fruit was a great summer meal. I just sliced and heated leftover steak and served it over spinach salad with chopped red onion, halved grape tomatoes, and a light dressing. Blue cheese crumbles would have been another good topping to add.<br />
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<b><i>What's your favorite source for easy recipes? What have you been cooking and baking lately?</i></b>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-31057678940302600942013-07-11T14:52:00.001-05:002013-07-11T15:59:51.844-05:00Book Club: Then Came YouI'm behind on my book club updates. It's been about three weeks since our last meeting... yikes!<br />
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But we had a great turn-out in June, and with everything going on these days, it was so good to catch up with everyone. We enjoyed a perfect summer dinner, thanks to our host, E. -- kabobs and baked potatoes off the grill, plus a big salad and margaritas (for those who could partake).<br />
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We discussed <a href="http://www.inspirationandroughdrafts.com/2013/05/book-club-fascinate-your-7-triggers-to.html"><i>Fascinate</i></a>, and those of us who had taken the survey to find out our top triggers -- that is, what makes us fascinating -- shared the results. Overall, the group had mixed reviews. Some wanted more examples that could apply to individual personalities and brands, rather than larger corporate brands. Some wanted more examples of actual application. But I was glad to hear that everyone found certain aspects to be really interesting, whether it was the idea of fascination, the examples, or the descriptions of the triggers.<br />
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As a business owner whose brand is essentially <i>me</i>, I found the online survey to be a helpful tool in understanding what strengths I have and what sets me apart. For those who are curious, I am considered a "Diplomat" -- with a primary trigger of Trust and a secondary trigger of Prestige. Common themes here: consistent, dependable, detail-oriented, ambitious, has high expectations. That sounds about right to me!<br />
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The tough part is the application. I've found with my business that once people work with me one time, they want to work with me again and again. Or they'll recommend me to other people. To make my triggers of Trust and Prestige apparent -- to show that I'm consistent, detail-oriented, and all that -- isn't an overnight process. I have to build a relationship, do the work, earn that trust. So I try to focus on the progress made, the relationships I've cultivated, and look back to recognize how my hard work translates to business successes -- because it often takes time to pay off or come to fruition.<br />
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I'd recommend the book for some marketing food-for-thought, but how helpful it'll be to you will depend on your situation, your knowledge base, and your needs or interests.<br />
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Next month (meaning this month!), we'll be reading and chatting about <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Then-Came-You-Jennifer-Weiner/dp/1611731453"><i>Then Came You</i></a> by Jennifer Weiner. We figured July was a good time for a beach read, one that still had a little bit of substance and could prompt an interesting discussion. I think this book fits the bill!<br />
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<i>Barnes & Noble <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/then-came-you-jennifer-weiner/1100369926?ean=9781451617733">Overview</a>:</i><br />
Jules Strauss is a Princeton senior on a full scholarship who plans
on selling her “pedigree” eggs to help save her father from addiction.<br />
<br />
Annie Barrow, a struggling Pennsylvania housewife, thinks that
carrying another woman’s child will help her recover a sense of purpose
and will bring in some much-needed cash.<br />
<br />
<div id="yui_3_8_1_1_1373571791915_1477">
India Bishop, thirty-eight
(really, forty-three) and recently married to the wealthy Marcus Croft,
yearns for a baby for reasons that have more to do with money than with
love. When her attempts at pregnancy fail, she turns to Jules and Annie
to make her dreams come true.</div>
<div id="yui_3_8_1_1_1373571791915_1477">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_8_1_1_1373571791915_1500">
But each of their plans is thrown
into disarray when Bettina, Marcus’s privileged daughter, becomes
suspicious that her new stepmother is not what she seems . . .</div>
<div id="yui_3_8_1_1_1373571791915_1500">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_8_1_1_1373571791915_1519">
Told with Jennifer Weiner’s trademark wit and sharp observations, <i>Then Came You</i>
is a hilarious, tender, and timely tale that explores themes of class
and entitlement, surrogacy and charity, the rights of a parent and the
measure of a mother.</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-17541557751254039842013-07-09T14:34:00.001-05:002013-07-09T14:34:37.979-05:00A Sneak Peek of the NurseryThe nursery is still in progress, so it's not yet ready for a full reveal. But with this long holiday weekend, Scott and I did a ton of organizing, rearranging, and picture-hanging, so I want to share some sneak peeks. We've both been stopping in just to look around the room. I seriously love how it's coming together!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBAG94kLIJ4E-KMP7bbcH0k7Lb4lwGay9nZfoSvmcJRwYpzf_D9ozPDLiTMyC3ZV37fDSWGr0lJD0aDcmda1Zys9bXLOJ30XdmqCavxTETkfqBQzXJ_cxPnYOn5WI1Fel7sYcfeWxIFY/s1600/nursery+sneak+peeks+(10).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBAG94kLIJ4E-KMP7bbcH0k7Lb4lwGay9nZfoSvmcJRwYpzf_D9ozPDLiTMyC3ZV37fDSWGr0lJD0aDcmda1Zys9bXLOJ30XdmqCavxTETkfqBQzXJ_cxPnYOn5WI1Fel7sYcfeWxIFY/s640/nursery+sneak+peeks+(10).JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, the "Just Keep Going" print was originally a part of my office decor, but we thought the saying can apply to parenthood too :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Visited the Container Store for under-the-crib storage. Feels so good to get organized!</td></tr>
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We recently put together the <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Status-Roma-Glider-and-Nursing-Stool-Ottoman-White-Finish-with-Beige-Cushions/22726126">glider</a> and <a href="http://www.buybuybaby.com/store/product/baby-jogger-153-city-mini-gt-shadow-black-single-stroller/1018888637">stroller</a> and installed the <a href="http://www.target.com/p/chicco-keyfit-30-pegaso/-/A-14329151#prodSlot=medium_1_24&term=chicco+car+seat">car seat</a>. Still need to wash all the clothes, bedding, and other soft items, complete our registries, and finish my long list of shower thank you notes (we were definitely blessed by the generosity of many friends and family!).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN6QNzan5Z20Gl0_7IDyLTUjuIyyQjYcyLGZrofnjlhjN5f2z29VVJq44fkmlC6iIm59XIHJYl6g5zigz4lMNP1gF-F1zBs6aDnVN1ezRMipEzfoZQeHuCmu4apJgJ-vZNJ0wDwAbkC0k/s1600/baby+thank+you+notes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN6QNzan5Z20Gl0_7IDyLTUjuIyyQjYcyLGZrofnjlhjN5f2z29VVJq44fkmlC6iIm59XIHJYl6g5zigz4lMNP1gF-F1zBs6aDnVN1ezRMipEzfoZQeHuCmu4apJgJ-vZNJ0wDwAbkC0k/s640/baby+thank+you+notes.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How cute are these thank you notes? My sister-in-law gave them to me. Love!</td></tr>
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About 5 weeks to go now!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">34 weeks & 5 days, post-yoga class (<a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=64306&vid=1&pid=545797042">top</a> and <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=41780&vid=1&pid=897100002">pants</a> from Old Navy Maternity)</td></tr>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-15336351371347972262013-07-03T08:00:00.000-05:002013-07-03T08:00:04.910-05:00Writing and ReadingI've had a long-time love affair with reading. I devoured chapter books from an early age, stayed up late reading by flashlight, got in trouble for bringing books to the dinner table, and have spent hours in libraries and bookstores. And while I didn't usually mind reading for school (um, I ended up with an English major), summer was the ideal season for catching up on pleasure reading.<br />
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These days, I no longer have required reading, but I like to dive into a mix of genres. Lately, I've been craving business and baby-related books, along with a few novels and essay collections. And keeping up with my book club adds even more diversity to my reading rotation.<br />
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Inspired by the season, Sarah and I have chosen "summer reading" as July's Create.Compose.Communicate newsletter theme. Since the first newsletter of the month goes out on July 4th, we have a fun message planned for our subscribers in honor of the holiday.<br />
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And in the weeks after that, we'll be discussing our favorite writing books, as well as how we read and keep track of all the great information we find, where we discover new picks and recommendations, and what we've experienced while reading in community.<br />
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It's no secret: Reading good writing can make you a better writer.<br />
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If you're not a subscriber yet, <a href="http://www.melrosestreetcustomcontent.com/newsletter">sign up</a> today! Our first July newsletter will arrive in inboxes tomorrow (Thursday). <br />
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<i>P.S. Thanks for sticking around and reading along, even though my posting here has been sporadic at best. I'm wrapping up a bunch of writing projects and getting ready for Baby's arrival (six weeks till my due date!)... but don't worry, I'll still be checking in from time to time.</i>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-21445293103731923592013-06-17T10:00:00.002-05:002013-06-17T10:00:22.023-05:00Guest Post on Fiscally Chic: Summer ReadingToday, I'm on <a href="http://www.fiscallychic.com/2013/06/summer-reading-with-melissa-of.html">Fiscally Chic</a>, filling in for Cathy while she's enjoying time with her newborn daughter! When she suggested a summer-themed post, I knew I had a few good reads to share. Nothing like diving into a good book (or two or three!) in the summertime.<br />
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Hop on over to <a href="http://www.fiscallychic.com/2013/06/summer-reading-with-melissa-of.html">Fiscally Chic</a> to check out my recommendations... and please share your own!<br />
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-10073862806340571422013-06-13T20:58:00.001-05:002013-06-13T20:58:42.977-05:00All Good ThingsIf there is one word to describe how I've been feeling lately, it's "overwhelmed." Unfortunately, when I have a lot going on, this little space usually falls down the priority list. So I'm sorry I haven't been posting as much, but the good news is that everything going on is good, fun, exciting.<br />
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Scott and I have been traveling a lot: Notre Dame for my sister J's graduation, Houston for my sister A's engagement celebration, one weekend "off," and then Minnesota for Scott's cousin's wedding. Now I'm heading home to Kansas for my first baby shower, wedding dress shopping with A., and Father's Day.<br />
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In the midst of all our weekend travels, work has been busy. I have a great mix of projects right now, and it feels like momentum is building. It's sometimes scary because I'm encountering a lot of new opportunities and challenges, learning as I go. But it's exciting because this is what I want, what I've been working towards. The little wrinkle in all of this... I have two months until my due date. And I'm still working on the best way to handle taking a "maternity leave" that allows me some time to adjust and get to know our new addition without losing this wonderful momentum.<br />
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Last week, Scott and I also celebrated our 3rd wedding anniversary. I can't believe it's been 6 years since our first date and 3 years since our wedding day. After Scott came home with an armful of flowers (yay! I'm a lucky girl), we went out to dinner to celebrate. We're treasuring the days of sleeping in, going out, and having the flexibility of just being the two of us, but we're also so looking forward to meeting this baby!<br />
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In other news, I hit the 30-week mark on our anniversary. Now, we're sitting at 31 weeks, so less than 9 to go. Lately, I've been wanting to sleep and eat a lot... although both are becoming tougher as the baby grows, my belly expands, and my other internal organs feel more squished. My goal, throughout this pregnancy, has been moderation. I'm still doing yoga, should be taking more walks, eating a good amount of healthy foods, and definitely treating myself to plenty of sweets.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">30 weeks!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite maternity work-out top. So comfy!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fruit salad (I could eat fresh pineapple all day, every day)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh-from-the-oven brownie & ice cream</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Banana-chocolate chip bread</td></tr>
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Oh, and I got a haircut. For whatever reason, I decided to get some shorter layers in front, just to add some interest. I'm still getting used to the change, but it's fun to do something different.<br />
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That's it for my little update! Until next time...Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-83881346250448453102013-06-05T08:00:00.000-05:002013-06-05T08:46:07.753-05:00The Writing ProcessI remember learning about the writing process in school. The steps were clearly laid out: pre-writing, drafting, revising, proofreading, and publishing. I loved how neat and tidy it all was.<br />
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But over time, I realized the five-step process is an ideal. In reality, the writing process is a bit messier. Putting together academic papers and client presentations often required
quick thinking -- and even quicker writing. And then I started my own
freelance writing business, where I was in charge of what got done, when
it got done, and how.<br />
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What I've learned: those five steps don't always happen in that exact order -- or they all simply blend together in one big writing burst.<br />
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<i>Organization, time management, process.</i> All these aspects of writing -- or any type of work -- are pretty personal. But coming out of our <a href="http://www.melrosestreetcustomcontent.com/newsletter">newsletter</a> reader survey, it sounds like some of you are looking for a bit of direction. And we also discovered that you'd love a little <i>behind-the-scenes peek</i> at how Sarah and I write and work.<br />
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So this month, we'll be doling out some helpful hints and delving into our personal processes in our Create.Compose.Communicate newsletters. If you want access to these tips and tricks, plus an inside look at managing a writing business (from two different perspectives!), make sure you're <a href="http://www.melrosestreetcustomcontent.com/newsletter">signed up</a>!<br />
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<i>Check out Sarah's blog, <a href="http://sarahkocischeilz.wordpress.com/2013/06/05/on-the-writing-process/">Inspiration-Driven Life</a>, for her take on this month's theme.</i>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-56179738500911141912013-05-31T14:04:00.001-05:002013-05-31T14:04:56.308-05:00Book Club: Fascinate: Your 7 Triggers to Persuasion and CaptivationOh, boy... it's been awhile. We were traveling the past two weekends (to Notre Dame for my sister's graduation and Houston for another sister's engagement party), so the weeks have been flying. I squeezed a bunch of stuff -- work, life, friends, etc.<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"> -- </span>into the days between trips, and now all of a sudden, tomorrow is June 1. How does that happen?<br />
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Last week, we met at I.'s new house for book club. I. served up an absolute feast of appetizers and all the fixings for stir-fry, plus fruit and macarons for dessert. (I managed to keep myself to one macaron since my glucose screening was the next morning... which, by the way, wasn't nearly as bad as all the horror stories you hear. The drink tasted like flat Sprite, I was fine with the multiple blood draws despite being needle-phobic, and I didn't feel sick. A McDonald's egg McMuffin and a long afternoon nap helped with the "recovery.")<br />
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During dinner, we chatted about <a href="http://www.inspirationandroughdrafts.com/2013/05/book-club-room-novel.html"><i>Room</i></a> -- quite the page-turner! The story is told from a five-year-old's perspective, which influences the language and makes the narrator a bit unreliable (in a good way). We often wondered what the adults in the story were thinking and feeling, a kind of fill-in-the-blanks technique that got us invested in the story. Though parts of the plot seemed far-fetched or questionable, we admired how the author portrayed the idea of a kidnapped-girl-turned-mother-in-captivity in a different way.<br />
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Next month, we're going in a different direction with a non-fiction read called <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fascinate-Your-Triggers-Persuasion-Captivation/dp/0061714704"><i>Fascinate: Your 7 Triggers to Persuasion and Captivation</i></a> by Sally Hogshead. I've heard a lot about this book among small business owners and entrepreneurs. I wasn't sure the other ladies would be interested, but when I filled them in on the premise, they suggested adding the book as our next pick.<br />
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I read a majority of it on our flights to and from Houston... so I'm eager to see what everyone thinks, especially since there's plenty to think about from a non-marketing angle. And I took the test to discover what my personal fascination triggers are (very cool!). It will be really interesting to hear what the other girls' triggers are too.<br />
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<i>Book Description (from the back cover):</i><br />
What triggers fascination, and how do companies, people, and ideas put those triggers to use?<br />
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Why
are you captivated by some people but not by others? Why do you recall
some brands yet forget the rest? In a distracted, overcrowded world, how
do certain leaders, friends, and family members convince you to change
your behavior? Fascination: the most powerful way to influence decision
making. It's more persuasive than marketing, advertising, or any other
form of communication. And it all starts with seven universal triggers:
lust, mystique, alarm, prestige, power, vice, and trust.<br />
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Fascination
plays a role in every type of decision making, from the brands you
choose to the songs you remember, from the person you marry to the
employees you hire. And by activating the right triggers, you can make
anything become fascinating.<br />
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To explore and explain fascination's
irresistible influence, Sally Hogshead looks beyond marketing, delving
into behavioral and social studies, historical precedents, neurobiology
and evolutionary anthropology, as well as conducting in-depth interviews
and a national study of a thousand consumers, to emerge with deeply
rooted patterns for why, and how, we become captivated.<br />
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Hogshead reveals why the Salem witch trials began with the same fixations as those in <em>Sex and the City</em>.
How Olympic athletes are subject to obsessions similar to those of
fetishists. How a 1636 frenzy over Dutch tulip bulbs perfectly mirrors
the 2006 real estate bubble. And why a billion-dollar "Just Say No"
program actually increased drug use among teens, by activating the same
"forbidden fruit" syndrome as a Victoria's Secret catalog.<br />
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Whether
you realize it or not, you're already using the seven triggers. The
question is, are you using the right triggers, in the right way, to get
your desired result? This book will show you.<br />
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8664599185042159418.post-84662168890499028342013-05-16T08:34:00.001-05:002013-05-16T09:09:31.717-05:00On GrowingMaybe it's because Mother's Day was on Sunday. Or perhaps it's the near-daily arrival of nursery items and baby gear. Maybe it's the increasing activity, kicks and flips and turns, happening in my belly. Or the beautiful weather that means leaving the house without a jacket, my baby bump on full display.<br />
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I feel the change, the growth. Just as the baby is growing, so am I. And it's more than just a physical change. It's a bond that is already formed, a peace and a sense of strength, an excitement and a healthy dose of uncertainty.<br />
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Scott and my family surprised me with a beautiful bouquet and a bunch of notes on Mother's Day. And his family gave me some lovely little gifts. I still have three months until I officially become a mother. But maybe in a way, I already am one. I've nurtured and loved this baby for six months, even if it's different than how I'll care for him or her after he or she is born.<br />
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We've started to receive gifts from friends and family. It's amazing to think about actually using these things once the baby is here. He or she is already so loved.<br />
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I have a few small updates on the nursery front. We're making some progress<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">—</span>with plenty more to come.<br />
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My mom has been hunting down different-sized baskets for the changing table. I ordered some fabric from <a href="http://www.babybedding.com/">Carousel Designs</a>, which one of my friend's moms will be using to make basket liners. I picked a couple of navy and white patterns<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">—</span>stripes and polka dots. And I also ordered three swatches of turquoise fabrics since that color is always tricky to match. The one I ended up choosing is pictured... and a yard of that fabric should be here any day. (If you're looking for cute baby bedding or fabric for any type of project, you should check out Carousel Designs!)<br />
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And I finally used a credit from Christmas toward a gorgeous <a href="http://www.designdarling.com/collections/decor/products/eco-throw-blanket-navy-blue">throw from Design Darling</a>. It goes perfectly with the rug. Scott joked about the baby destroying it. I'm thinking about draping it over the back of the glider/rocker (once we get one) for a little extra color and coziness.<br />
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For now, I'm feeling great and moving into the third trimester. Hard to believe we'll get to meet this little guy or gal in three short months!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">27 weeks!</td></tr>
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06834707294186053083noreply@blogger.com20