BYE FELICIA (The Year 2017)

I really hope I'm not jinxing myself writing this post, but I feel like I have to. This year, the year 2017, has been a crap year. The birth of my second daughter, Nora, has been the highlight of the year.

Why is it a crap year? Because of ALL of the crap that happened...let me get started!

It's been a little bit more than a year of crap happening with us. Right before last Christmas was when the car full of dudes showed up at my house and I had to run inside with my toddler in my arms, locking the doors and hoping they left. I learned from that experience and now know how to handle my weapon better and to call the sheriff.

At the beginning of the year we got a lot of rain and in turn, we noticed that our chimney was leaking in the basement. This is also in addition to a water pipe leaking and having to cut into our bathroom wall and get that repaired. SO with the fear of mold and having children in the house we quickly got the chimney damage inspected to get the ball rolling for repair. My husband and cousin started to dig in to fix it and it was a much larger project than they had anticipated so we found a contractor. A contractor - who never showed up. We waited months and finally later (I'll get to that) had it repaired with another company.

My house in Oklahoma also had to be sold which dealing with bids and everything is annoying, especially when you settle and then have the people get cold feet and fall through. I was glad when that was over and am grateful for my friends who lived there and got the house ready. I couldn’t have done it without them.

There was a field fire right next to our house that was really close to hitting our propane tank. That was fun to watch...NOT. The fire dept was really quick and for that I appreciate them even more!

Another story...While I'm in my third trimester, I decide I need to go get groceries while my husband is home to watch the kids so I go. On my way home (around 9-10 pm) I have a blowout. Thankfully, my in laws were right behind me on the highway on their way home so I got rescued!

My pregnancy sucked pretty much completely. Anxiety ruled my life and I was physically taken over with all sorts of pain. Nora has completely made up for it. She is the best baby. Life with 3 kids 3 and under has been quite the thrill and experience. My oldest has acted better since starting preschool which is a huge relief! Not to say that he and my oldest daughter get along, because mostly they don't. All in all, I have learned more about myself in the past 3 years than my whole life. I know what I can handle and what I can't. I've learned more of what I want out of this life and what I can live without. I've learned that 3 pregnancies is probably enough. I'd like to stay married and not feel so bad again.

Okay, onto more crap. Hahaha

So while we are waiting for the contractor that never showed up we have pretty wicked storms on and off. 4 days before I go into the hospital to have Nora a freaking tornado hits the house. Do you know how much I HATE STORMS? I was so scared and feared to keep my children safe. I really didn't think when we got upstairs that there would be a house, but we got extremely lucky and only minimal damage happened. We got a new roof, the chimney (finally) fixed, new doors and windows fixed with an awesome company (Burwell Construction - Hays, KS). My son Thomas will never let me live it down that I was "crying in the basement because of the cartado (his word for tornado) and his favorite tree was destroyed. Oh and another thing about the house...you know the paint on the siding that was peeling forever that we finally got fixed? Yeah, it's peeling again.

So on top of all of that crap, we had vehicle issues. Issues including me having to drive 20 mph on the way home from taking Thomas to preschool because our suv was stuck in 4WD low. We ended up getting a cheap minivan (yeah, I know) and it has honestly been very convenient for the whole getting in and out and dealing with 3 kids in car seats way. BUT the tires on it have been an issue. The freaking day I put insurance on the thing I have a flat going to pick up Thomas from school. Yet again, thankful for in laws for saving the damn day. And USAA for making it work to send someone out and be covered by insurance.

After that I've had another flat with the van and my husband ruined a tire on his pickup, all thanks to the wonderful Trego County Roads (sarcasm and eye roll here). Along with house and vehicle issues, health has been downhill since Nora was born. It has felt like we've been more sick/had health issues than not. Not the easiest thing to deal with. My oldest daughter, Clara, has had the worst eczema I've ever seen and I feel so helpless in relieving her symptoms. We are finally going to an allergist in January!

I would also like to add that during all of this, money hasn't been growing on trees for us. It's been really tight and we are hoping that 2018 brings us a much better outlook! And for another twist to our story, our house has been haunted. The activity really picked up after Nora was born. A radio has been on a couple of times downstairs when we weren't the ones who turned it on. We've taken a picture of smoke on our stairs, had Thomas tell us he's seen a man and describe him in full detail, seen orbs on their night cameras and the creepiest has been when Matt and I came home to hear people having a conversation. We both thought it was the tv, but it wasn't on and wouldn't have been since we were gone.

In the grand scheme of things, this is all trivial and could be incredibly worse. I am grateful that it wasn't worse, but am glad for the year to be wrapping up. Not that the universe knows the difference in years, but maybe it'll change. But in the meantime, I'll keep trucking along taking care of the kids while my husband works insane hours. I'll continue to load all 3 kids up Monday through Thursday, getting them all ready and myself ready in time, making the 22 miles trek to town, unloading them all to go sign the oldest in then loading the two girls up to head back home. Once home we will have our lunch, naps (if I'm lucky and maybe get in a load of dishes) and then load up again to get Thomas then load back up to come home and start dinner. Then get ready for bed! The days are long, but the years are short. How my oldest is going on 4 already, I don't know...I treasure my crazy life and I'm very thankful for family and friends who are there for us and for coffee and wine!

Wishing you all the very best 2018!!

Mommin' Ain't Easy

Hello. I've been wanting to write this for a very long time, but with one reason after another I have been postponing it. Well, now is the day!

I am a Mom of two, ages 3 and 1&1/2 AND almost 9 months pregnant with kid number three. I would be lying if I said my life was a "breeze" and perfect because it is not. And that's what I'm sharing with you today in hopes that a mom somewhere that needs to reads this does and knows that she's not alone.

First off - hormones. They are a motherfucker. I am so sick of dealing with stupid hormones. Pregnancy hormones are the worst for me and especially this pregnancy. Around month 5 of pregnancy my panic attacks due to anxiety/stress got so bad that I had to get on medication. That was the last thing I wanted to do, but I needed to do it for my sanity and so I could mother to the best of my ability. The medicine has helped but I still have several days of feeling down and angry. I don't know why because who can't handle a 3 year old ornery boy and a 1.5 year old that LOVES to be held and whines because of big brother messing with her every second of the day...I mean, seriously. Oh, and then there's the housework, bills, obligated events to attend, grocery shopping, etc.

Second - GUILT. Guilt of not feeling good enough. Guilt of not spending enough one on one time with each child or even both of them because the tv is your savior for the day. Guilt for the house not being clean when your husband comes home from working 12-14 hour days every day. Guilt for wondering if you fed your children the right food for their little growing bodies so they don't get the ever growing diabetes that the world is inflicted with now days. Guilt for not calling or writing people back in a good time period because you'd rather cut your legs off than try to talk on the phone while your children scream, fight and pine for your attention the whole time. Guilt for also being on your phone TOO MUCH because some days social media is the only way I know what's going on in the world and gives me the entertainment I need to continue.

Third - isolation. I stay at home to raise my kids. That's what my husband and I decided was best for our family. Some days I do wish that I worked just so I could get away and out of the house, help with money and have adult conversations. I'm lucky to have my Scentsy and Posh business to keep me busy in a non mom way and make connections locally. With all of that being said, I do not regret my decision to stay home and raise my children. Plus, where I live, our options for daycare isn't really the best and neither are the job options for the pay rate I would need to be able to afford daycare. I am sure there are plenty of working moms that wish they could stay home with their reasons and I totally get it! We all do that and have our reasons. I am still very grateful I get to do this "job" and I wouldn't want it any other way. I try my best to not take it for granted that I get to raise my kids. I can stay in my pjs all day if I want, go to the park any time, visit my family when it is possible, etc. Speaking of family...I do have some great in-laws around me, but I miss my family tremendously. And my friends - my best friends. I left them to move here to be with my husband. I never imagine how hard it would be to be here with kids and not have my village with me.

Lastly - comparison. I am so sick of my problem with comparing myself to other women, especially moms. It seems now days there are these "perfect" women/mothers that I cannot get away from seeing on social media. It's almost been so bad that I have considered closing all of my accounts and living back in the stone ages. But I do have my business pages on facebook and family members far away that love seeing pictures of the kids so I keep it active.

SO if you're like me trying to make it through the day wondering if you're doing it right...you probably are. Hopefully you've got someone to call to vent or advice (thanks Mom). And hopefully you have a significant other that lets you escape sometimes, even if it's just to get groceries alone because that can feel like a vacation. And we all know that even a drive where you get to blast the music you don't get to listen to anymore can be all the therapy you need. Hang in there. I am trying to ;) I keep telling myself that this is just a phase and one day I'm going to be sad it's over. I know I will. Until then, I'll keep counting the hours of the day until my rescue support comes home and keep searching for new activities that help my kiddos (and me) stay happy...

The Gift of Protection

If you had asked me 5 or more years ago my thought on guns, I would've told you I was scared of them. I knew nothing about them and didn't want to touch them. When I lived alone, I had a baseball bat and some knives for defense. A lot has changed since then.

When I started dating my husband, I got to know more and more about guns. Hand guns, rifles, shotguns, accessories, etc. I started to become more comfortable with them and eventually shooting some. I really liked one of his guns and he basically said it was mine. I thought that was cool, but I still needed more education.

I ended up taking a concealed carry course with several members of our family earlier this year and PASSED! My dad now calls me a "pistol packing momma". Since passing the course, I knew I needed a smaller handgun to carry because my favorite one was a little big for me to feel comfortable with. With two small children in tow, I don't need extra baggage when I go somewhere.

So the hunt was on...until one day I found THE GUN. <3 Introducing, the Sig Sauer P238.

It is compact, light and fits great in my hand and pockets. My husband surprised me with it for Christmas this year. (He gave it to me early.) I was shocked and extremely happy. Fast forward a couple weeks to last Friday...

It's a beautiful day outside, my daughter is sleeping so I decide to take my son out to play. We were outside for maybe 10 minutes when a car with 3 men show up in my driveway. One gets out and starts yelling, "Hey!" and probably some other words, but I don't remember because I just knew something wasn't right. I picked up my son and started running into the house, locking all of the doors behind me.

We get inside, my son plays with the truck he managed to bring in with him and I start going to get my gun. In the meantime, the man who got out of the car said, "I can see you". Talk about really freaking a woman out. I was also on my phone trying to get a hold of my husband. Next time (hopefully there isn't one) I will be on the phone with the sheriff instead. I waved to the driver of the car through a window, telling them to leave. The man who was outside started to go around back, but got in the car and left.

I walked around with that gun the rest of the day after my husband gave me instructions over the phone. It was in safe mode of course, since children are around. My husband gave me a hands on course on the gun that evening because before then I didn't really know it well. I feel a lot more comfortable now with it and I'm grateful to have it. But I didn't feel this way completely, until I knew my gun well.

With that being said, I highly suggest all women to think about getting a gun or having some sort of defense plan for when and if situations, like mine, happen. The man could've easily tried to break down my door, bust a window open or worse. At the time I didn't have my gun ready and could've been a victim.

Ladies, do you have someone close to you that you could talk about guns with? Someone you can trust and can take you somewhere to get a feel for them? Have you ever walked into a gun shop? You should! Go feel some. Ask them about concealed carry courses. Think about what you can do to defend yourself and family, if you have one. Ask me any questions you'd like! I'd be happy to help!

My Paleo(ish) Experience

So I'm eating Paleo(ish) now. I'm sure you've heard of the Paleo diet before. If not, it's basically eating like a caveman. I call it Paleo(ish) because I'm not eating a 100% Paleo diet. Unless I lived alone and tracked every single morsel of food that's in my home or surrounding, being basically obsessed with it, could I be. That's okay. I don't really want to be 100%. But here's the scoop on it so far.

My husband and I started this new lifestyle (him being a veteran of it already) a couple of weeks ago. You basically cut out processed food, breads and dairy (which I'm still drinking my milk by the way). It's exactly the type of lifestyle I should be living anyway with PCOS and Pre-diabetes.

I've felt great since a few days after I started. Yes, I've gotten hungry sometimes but that's because I didn't have a prepared snack ready to go. It takes some preparation and a strong will to do this, but I promise it is SO worth it. I would say the hardest thing is when I leave the house. There are a couple days a week that I don't eat that much strictly "paleo" foods which is alright as long as I stick to it in the long run.

I've already loss close to 8 pounds. That's HUGE to me.

A plus side to Paleo - YOU CAN STILL EAT CHOCOLATE AND DRINK WINE. (In limited quantities)

Dark chocolate and red wine. Right up my alley.

So that's all I really have so far. Here's a list of foods I eat regularly:

- Spinach
- Eggs
- Veggies
- Fruits
- Sunflower Seeds (since I'm allergic to tree nuts)
- Coffee/Tea
- Bacon
- Sausage
- Beef
- Chicken
- Fish
- Dark Chocolate

I also take a Prenatal Vitamin, Cinnamon Supplement, Magnesium Supplement and Chromium Supplement to help with my blood sugar and metabolism.

If you're thinking about it or want to talk about it, let me know! I'll be happy to help!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fromkansaswithlove/
Instagram: @kelleynuttle
Snapchat: @kelleynuttle
Twitter: @kelleynuttle
MyFitnessPal: @kelleynl04
FitBit: kelleynuttle@ymail.com

- Kelley

Surviving The Madness

These two. Love them so much! I'm not going to say it's been easy. A learning experience? Yes. You see, I don't have a lot of patience. I lose my cool way too easily and having two kids under the age of two can be extremely hard, but rewarding!

Thomas - my sweet first born. He's a wild man. He loves to climb and do everything adventurously. The opposite of me. I like to take it carefully. So needless to say, I have some anxiety raising this boy. He has helped me learn to relax and let things go though, so that's not a bad thing.

Clara - my baby girl. She's my mini-me. I am so excited to see the little person she becomes. She is generally happy-go-lucky...unless she's hungry or tired. That apple doesn't fall too far from the tree.

Clara adores her older brother. Every time he's around, she stares and smiles. He adores her too. He randomly goes up to her and "pets" her on the head and gives her sweet kisses. I love those moments.

Then there are times that get rough. Like when both of them are crying because something isn't going their way. That wears on me bad. I want to make everyone happy and resolve everything in an instant. But that's not humanly possible.

I've learned how to prioritize better. Which one needs me the most and go from there. I also consume way more coffee than I ever have (and maybe wine too).

Would I suggest having kids this close together? Probably not. I'd say wait until the older one will be two by the time the second kid arrives, but life's an adventure so go for it if you must. We thought it was a good idea....LOL.

If you see me with less hair, more wrinkles and bigger bags under my eyes, this is why! I wouldn't change it for the world though!

Thanks for reading!

- Kelley

My New(er) Life

It's been a while since I've updated! I've been a little preoccupied...I had my beautiful baby girl on October 15th!

We didn't know the gender and boys run in the family so we were shocked to have a girl! We are so grateful for her. She is usually happy unless she's hungry, but who isn't?

How cute is she? I hope she's a dancer like I was :)

Life was a little tough for just a little while after we brought her home. Big brother wasn't sure what was going on for a few days and then he realized that she's not leaving so it's been fun ever since. 

Sleep deprivation hit me bad for the first two weeks and got slightly better within the next two weeks. I was sort of a zombie mommy during that time!

I've finally started to get sort of a "groove" for how the house works with two under two. I am so thankful that my mom was able to stay for a month to help me. My husband is a huge help too. In the meantime, between October and now, I finished my Healthcare Documentation schooling, applied for several part-time at-home jobs, kept my Scentsy business going, all along with my regular duties. The oilfield continues to go downhill and my husband's job is finally effected by it. His pay has gone down, but he continues to work hard and make it work for us.

Love our family!

He's growing up so fast!

In the upcoming year I turn 30. Woo! I don't feel 30, mentally. Physically, I'm starting to feel old, but I think having babies help with that process! I am anxious to see what else this year unfolds. I'll try my best to keep you updated!

Thanks for reading!

I am rich.

As I'm sitting here, bawling my eyes out after reading this story...once again I am reminded of how rich I am. Rich with life, blessings, love and laughter. Rich with necessities and life adventures. Rich in not having to struggle to find money to buy my child diapers or keep food on the table. Rich with God's love and presence. Rich with decent health. Rich with opportunities to grow and change without restrictions. Just RICH.

When you hear the word rich, you think of money, right? Well, I am asking you to NOT. Stop and think about what makes you rich....

You're pretty rich, aren't you?

I'll leave you here with this.

Why I Love It Here {Western Kansas}

There's something different about this place and I enjoy it very much. The atmosphere, the people, the way of life...it's just nice. Maybe I like it so much because I'm not from here? Maybe because I've lived in the city so I have that point of view as well. Either way, I want to share why I love Western Kansas so much!

 

 

 

 

 

Do these even need captions? Seriously. I think the land here is naturally beautiful. Yes, of course, I love city lights but being able to see this scenery by day and the bright stars by night is pretty awesome.

 

 

One with the land. It is so neat to see crops being grown around my house and watch this place get busy when it's harvest time. The oil industry also keeps our area busy - most of the time.

People know your name. So, I guess this can sometimes be bad especially for people up to no good, but honestly, it's kind of cool when you randomly meet people and they ask your name and realize they know your family.

I don't have to dress to impress. It is very laid back here. People are way too busy outside, sweating like nobody's business to even worry about slapping their face on. My husband loves me and says that I'm beautiful without "that stuff on my face", but I love not having to wear "that stuff" to run errands. I'm sure I could do this anywhere but here, it is not expected and I'm down with that!

 

Events are a big deal. We are not close to any big event venues so we don't get too excited about huge concert tours but when the County Fair or Old Settlers Reunion is going on...now that we get excited about!...It's the little things.

Small town USA. When we lived in town, I worked at a local fuel/automotive shop. It is sort of like one of those you see in the movies. The old men gather in the mornings with a cup of coffee, talking about equipment or plans for the day. Did you know that places around here still have tabs? AND they take checks too! I couldn't believe it when my husband said, just write it down or tell them to put it on my tab, when we grabbed food at the shop or bar. I guess it's ok because everyone knows where we live (and knows our family). Another good thing about living in a rural area is that when you are in need, there is usually someone who can help you out. I am still trying to get used to borrowing things from people for just a bottle of booze, a meal or a hand shake - knowing that you'll return the favor one day.

What do you love about where you live? Is it similar to Western Kansas?

To My Hero, With All My Heart...Happy Father's Day!

I hit the jackpot when I found my husband. You know what one of the first things he did for me that really got me? The first morning we spent together, he brought me a cup of coffee with creamer while I was getting ready. No one had ever done that for me before. I know you're probably thinking, "wow, that didn't take much." But if you knew where I had been before, this was HUGE. I felt loved, completely, with that one cup of coffee. It's the little things, people!

He truly is a wonderful man and it is even difficult to put into words describing the way that I feel about him. I've been broken and lonely, not appreciated, used but then he showed me the opposite. Immediately, I knew he would be my forever man.

It didn't take long for us to want to stop the 6.5 hours drives on the weekends to see each other. After 6 months of living together we got engaged and 10 days later...became HUSBAND & WIFE. When you know, you know. It was a quick ceremony at the lake that we now live by. We held a reception 8 months later and decided that we wanted to start a family.

It wasn't long until I saw two pink lines! Me telling him wasn't all planned out and nicely done as other couples. I seriously just shook the test in his face with happiness before running off to work for the day. We couldn't believe it and were very excited, nervous, scared, anxious...all of the feelings! With the way that he was a husband to me, I knew he would be a great father. So I really had no worries.

Finally in June 2014, our little man was born! It was amazing to see what we had made together. Life is such a miracle! Also, I never had to change a diaper in the hospital...daddy did that!

My husband works a lot and it is so I can stay home with our son. Daycare wasn't really an option where we live and deep down inside I knew I wanted to raise my children. So, I've gotten to stay home and watch our son grow up and do his firsts, which is truly a blessing. I'm not going to lie, my days lately have been very "trying." I am currently pregnant with baby #2 and my hormones are sometimes off the wall. Dealing with a whiny, teething, needy, temper tantrum throwing toddler isn't exactly peachy.

Luckily, I have a spouse who comes home every night and helps me. Unless there's yard work or rare occasions that he is outside or gone. I don't know if I could do it without him and I hope that I never have to find out. He works all day, comes home and sometimes even cooks when I don't feel like it, gives our son his bath, spends time with him and gives me a break! All without ever complaining. He never makes me feel selfish or bad for wanting/needing to go to town to get a fish sandwich that I crave or just to get out for sanity. I am very grateful for that. He still does little things that makes me feel loved, such as that first cup of coffee. I love him more every day.

So to my hero, my husband...thank you and Happy Father's Day!

Defeated.



Is there a button that turns your frown upside down? I could use one of those. [Today has been one of those ugly cry days.]

Hi. I'm Kelley, mom to a 1 year old who is very strong willed and needy, lately. Wife to a man I like to clean and cook for but don't always live up to. Things I like to do for myself? Shop (in which I'm limited to - thanks money for not growing on trees!), everything Scentsy (recently became a consultant), go out and do things (sometimes restricting due to child and/or money still not growing on trees), help others, have a clean house, make good food, bake cookies for loved ones, make my son laugh...the list could go on and on.

Even though I know it is not physically, emotionally or mentally possible to complete all of the wonderful things I have listed in my head on a daily basis, I still strive to and end up disappointed. To be honest, the last couple of days, my main focus is to let go of all of the "mundane house tasks" and enjoy time with my son but I still feel defeated. Yes, maybe being 5 months pregnant, tired, achy all over, emotional and over-analyzing everything that everyone else is doing doesn't help my situation. I just want to make my son happy and he is in a phase where that is not always possible, no matter how much time I spend with him. I take it personally, which totally sucks. I know he's not, not enjoying things, on purpose but it still hurts. Also, I am in a stage of wanting/needing a good friend to hang out with that has a kid or maybe if I could clone my sister, it would make my life a little less lonely.

So, I think I'm just going to take him out to the park at the lake. Maybe grab some food before hand and have a little picnic (or a chase him around while trying to shove food in his mouth and mine at the same time thing). And turn this frown around myself. Seriously though, if you have one of those buttons...name your price! ;)

My New Fun Thing!!

Hey there! I wanted to share with you that I've joined Scentsy Fragrance! I am literally addicted to the stuff so I decided to sell it. Honestly, another reason for selling it was to have something for myself, something that I enjoy and can do to take my mind out of "mommy mode". There are so many great products available and they make me happy so I would like to share that joy with you :)

My website is www.knuttle.scentsy.us if you ever want to check everything out!

Rain, Rain, Go Away

For so many people, rain is a great thing. And to an extent, it is. But too much of it, can be a bad thing for those of us that depend on dirt roads to make a living. I am sure the farmers are ecstatic that their crops are getting the much deserved drink they need to grow healthy. But for the oil field workers - in particular, the tanker truck drivers - it is not good at all.

Our house is located a little over a mile off of the nearest highway. If my husband can get to the highway that's great but then he has to worry about getting into leases to load and unload the oil. The roads to the leases are dirt, not necessarily well maintained and all it takes is one or two good rains to make it impossible to get in and out of. It's been raining for forever days.

The time my son and I get with my husband is wonderful but our bank account is depleting. I'm not going to lie that I am a little worried but I am trying to have faith that everything will go back to normal. This makes me realize how uneasy it must be for farmers to have to depend on the weather to ensure a good season or not. I am not a fan!

Luckily, we are not completely confined to the house. We have 4 wheel drive vehicles that get us to where we need to go with a little sweat from gripping the wheel as we slip and slide. So until it dries up and everyone starts talking about the drought again, I am using this time to catch up on family time, school work and preparing for upcoming events that are sure to be fun.

Have you been effected by the weather?

Mom, I Love You Because...

There are so many reasons why I love you. First of all, because you gave me life. Second of all, you are just awesome and thirdly, you've turned into a best friend that always has my back. You have helped me get over insecurities and fears, look more positively at situations and help me laugh at silly little things that has me in knots.

You don't get the credit you deserve all of the time so I wanted to take the time to do so. Especially after watching sweet segments of the Today Show stars with their mothers and thinking "I should do that for mine."

 

There you are, supporting me with something I enjoyed...like always. You are looking hot in your 90's attire! 

Love my Mom, Maw Maw and Grandma.

Here's to all of the fun times we've had and to the times we have ahead! Thanks for all that you've done and will do. I love you! Happy Mother's Day!

 

Help! I've Been Bitten!

So, sometime in the past couple of months, my son decided that I must be really good to sink his 4 teeth into because it seems like that's all he wants to do now! And it freaking hurts! This also goes along with pulling my hair, slapping me in the face & chest and using me as his personal human jungle gym. My guess is that you've dealt with some of this too?

I need your help. I could use your suggestions on if and what I can do something to get the biting to stop. My son is now 11 months old, is it too early to "punish" him? What did you do to make your child stop? Or do I just let this ride out because it's just a thing?

In the meantime, I will try my best to enjoy the daily beat up I get because it means that my son can move and shake. I am glad that he is growing like he is and I'd rather get bitten than him not be able to do these things. Thanks in advance for your advice!

Sisterhood Tag!

Happy Friday Friends! It's been a quick week at our house and I'm sure that this weekend will go by just as fast! I am attending the Red Barn Outdoor Market with my aunt-in-law tomorrow and I couldn't be more excited! There are going to be SO many awesome vendors and things to look at, I am going to be in sensory overload! If you would like to check it out, here's the facebook event page.

I was tagged, along with other bloggers, by my SIL/BFF MakeMeUpMia in the Sisterhood of the World Bloggers Award! She gave us some questions to answer then I will tag 10 bloggers with 10 questions of my own...let's keep it going :)

1. What made you start your blog?
I started my blog years ago for more of a journal but I got more serious with it last year when I joined up with the Rural Housewives. I loved what they were doing and felt that it would a perfect outlet for me while I made the transition to stay-at-home mom. I enjoy the connection that I have with other bloggers and readers since I am, literally, in the middle of nowhere and don't get that interaction like I did when I lived in the city.

2. Current favorite song, you know, the one that you crank up in the car?

Oh geez, I love music! So this one is hard for me to pick...I would say that the one song I always turn up in the car (if little man isn't with me) is Fade Away by Breaking Benjamin.

3. If you could only pick 1 beverage for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Hmmm...and not have to worry about sugar affecting my body? Pepsi.

Enjoy my favorite throwback commercial with my favorite lady!

4. Dream job & why?

I currently have my dream job as a stay-at-home mom. I do, however, have a new aspiration...creating custom Kansas jewelry! We'll see if it happens!

5. You have 1 totally free YOU day, what would your day consist of?
Traveling somewhere new, shopping, spa and fancy food!

6. Favorite trip you've ever been on?
My husband and I joke that we had our "honeymoon" before we got married. We took a cruise to the Caribbean and really enjoyed it! It was my first real tropical trip and it was with the man that I love...pure bliss!

7. You had a million dollars handed to you, first thing you do? 
Pay off debt!

8. Tell me something you love about yourself. 
I can get along with all types of people and enjoy many things in life.

9. What store do you shop at most (non grocery)?
Online - Amazon (hands down the best for living in the country)
In-store - Hobby Lobby or Bath & Body Works

10. Favorite recipe & make sure you share ;)
Chocolate Chips Cookies! Here's the recipe from their website. I substitute butter with regular Crisco and add a 1/4 tsp of water while mixing. I also line foil on the pan with Crisco. These were my grandma's secrets so you are privileged to get the scoop ;)

I tag the following blogger friends:
Alex | Blog Mom, Blog!
Jenny | Prairie Californian
Kira | The Fell Bunch
Jessie | Snapshots of a Kansas Farm
Erin | Trial & Erin
Kerry | I Married A Milkman
JoAnn | Music Sparks
Diana | In The Heart of Kansas
Amanda | The Procrastinating Mommy
Nancy | Bead Charmer Girl

Here are your questions! No pressure to do this, just thought it would be neat to hear from you :)
1. What do you like most about blogging?
2. If you could eat anything all of the time, what would it be?
3. You are with your 18 year old self, what do you say?
4. Are you a get dressed up and go out to eat or dinner at home type of gal?
5. If you got $1000 to do anything you wanted, what would you do?
6. Where's your favorite place to be and why?
7. Book or Movie?
8. What is your favorite talent?
9. Spring Storms or Winter Storms?
10. Challenges you face daily?

If you decide to participate, please tweet me @kelleynuttle

Have a great weekend!

What The Heck Am I Doing?

There are days (a lot of days) where I ask myself this question. "What the heck am I doing?" I am sure that many moms have asked themselves this very same question. Whether it's while you are up for the fourth time in the middle of the night or chasing a baby around the house just to put a freaking shirt on them, you think WTH.

I am not particularly the most patient person so I find myself in tears when my son chooses to not go with my flow after countless attempts otherwise. And he just looks at me like...WTH. Notice the theme? I have no idea what I'm doing or why. I don't know why I try to dress my son into clothes that no one is going to see but my husband and I while he has perfectly clean pajamas on. The struggle is not worth it. I think I have finally realized that! I don't know why I compare my mothering skills to others when quite frankly, it's our life not theirs. I don't know why I let "advice" from family members, who believe they know it all, bother me. I don't know why I pick up all of my sons toys for them to just get thrown all over the floor again. I don't know why my son feels like he needs to throw a fit because I want to change his diaper, put him somewhere safe while I take care of business or set him down after holding him until my arms want to fall off.

I get so upset sometimes because I feel like I'm not the best mother that I could be. I have all of these grand ideas of what I want to accomplish as a mother and a wife but some days I get nowhere close. The dirty floors, the dishes piled in the kitchen, the laundry (and toys) all over the floor, the nice dinner I should've started already...all the things that I worry over that I really shouldn't. But then, I see my son's gap toothed smile and rethink things.

You know, things aren't so bad and shouldn't be so overanalized. Life is too short for that.

If you're that mother who thinks, "what the heck am I doing?" You are not alone! You are doing just fine. Being a mother isn't always easy but it is worth it. Stay strong my friends! (And maybe indulge in a glass of wine...or two.)

Smoky Hills Public Television Presents - SID the SCIENCE KID! [PLUS GIVEAWAY!!]

Hello friends! I wanted to share this awesome (FREE) event that you and your children can enjoy at The Central Mall in Salina, KS on Saturday, March 28th from Noon to 2:00 PM. It is being presented by Smoky Hills Public Television. The kids can participate in fun experiments, take pictures with SID and watch the SID the SCIENCE KID Movie!

  

In part of this great event, I've got a SID the SCIENCE KID Encyclopedia of Discovery DVD to give away to one lucky winner! Please enter below and good luck!



a Rafflecopter giveaway

  

Want more fun, science experiments to try at home? Check these out!

 



Routine or Not?

We all have that thing. That thing that we rely on for our sanity, our routine, something that helps our day go. Mine is coffee (with plenty of that frou-frou stuff). After being diagnosed with GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) I was bummed that coffee was on the no-no list. So I slowly reduced how much I was drinking every day. With that being said...I still drink it!

Anyway, here's the deal. Coffee peps me up for my day raising my son, studying, housework, errands or whatever else we have planned. I can make do without it but choose not to. I am sort of a sucker for routine. I have a way that I do things (from loading the dishwasher to cooking things a certain way) and I enjoy sticking with it. When my plans get messed up, I get ridiculously upset which I am not proud of. I feel horrible after reacting to a situation that doesn't go the way that I plan. Since being with my husband, who is not as big of a planner like I am, I've had to adapt. I am slowly getting better.

Routine isn't always bad. I believe routine is good when it comes to children. I was struggling with my son's sleep patterns around 6 months old. Finally one of my best friends suggested that I establish a routine and stick to it so I can get some good sleep. It worked! So now, I struggle with being "that mom" that wants to be home at a certain time so my son can get his bath, pjs on, stories read, bottle time and in bed that he is accustomed to. You win some, you lose some!

Do you have a routine that you stick to? Have you had to "let go" of your planning way? I would love to hear!

Dear Husband...

Thank you for being my best friend, my hero and the best father to our son. Thank you for being strong in many different ways. Thank you for treating me right. Thank you for working hard to provide for your family, selflessly. Thank you for loving me even when I am not lovable. Thank you for making life fun and always an adventure. Thank you for being honest even if it hurts. Thank you for making my day better just by being around. Thank you for showing affection even if it's just a butt slap. Thank you for eating food that I burn and pretending that you actually like it. Thank you for being YOU.

I am so lucky to have you! Happy 2 year anniversary! I love you!

What I Miss Most [About Living In The City]

I can go on and on about my love for living in the country but I have to admit that I miss some things in the city. It’s been a little over two years since I moved to Kansas. I moved from Owasso, Oklahoma which is about 20 miles from Tulsa. It was a booming city when I moved there and still is. Even Garth Brooks calls it home! When I would drive to work before I was living in Owasso, I would drive by Garth’s “house – aka fence line” hoping to see him or Trisha along the way. I don’t know how, but I think everyone else ran into him at the grocery store or a restaurant but me! Oh well…

While I was living there and dreaming of moving to Kansas I got pretty fed up with the traffic and rude people. I knew I would miss the shopping and food options and honestly, I still do. I also miss the events and services available there. Here in Western Kansas there aren’t a lot of things going on and when there is, there aren’t multiple occurrences to fit your schedule (or your husband's). I guess that’s what makes the city though. Plenty of things to do and people to see. I never ran out of options if I wanted to go do something. Plus, new things were available there that you have to wait for here. The one plus side of that is that by the time it makes it here, it’s been proven to be good. Right?

No matter what, out of material things or service options, I miss my friends that I had to go do the things with, the most. When I moved, I left my best friends and siblings which SUCKS. But I gained a husband, son and extended family that I love. It’s a much simpler life here and I am not going to complain about that because I highly enjoy SIMPLE. Now more than ever. Bringing up a child in a rural setting is what I’ve always wanted and I get to do that so that makes missing the city easier to deal with.

Have you moved from the city to a rural area? If so, what do you miss most about the city?