Mommy's High Heel Shoes

Kristie's Site has moved!

2010-07-10T10:58:00.004-04:00

www.KristieFinnan.com

Author Kristie Finnan has moved her site! Please follow her at:
www.KristieFinnan.com

Take a walk over and see her...

Thursday Night Blog Hop

2010-05-13T22:43:00.002-04:00

5/13/2010

Tune in to Mom TV tonight at 7:00 pm.

2010-05-11T00:27:00.000-04:00

5/11/2010
Elizabeth Norton is featuring Mommy's High Heel Shoes tonight on her Let's Read Together show on www.MomTV.com Tune in to see her creativity in action!

Fan Mail

2010-04-26T08:07:00.000-04:00

Why I write children's Books!

Finally, A Face Book Fan Page!

2010-04-26T07:52:00.000-04:00

Become a Fan- Click to See Fan Page!

Feature on AroundMainLine.com (The Region's First Online Magazine)

2010-03-29T07:40:00.002-04:00

3/29/1010 Thank you AML for the awesome feature on your site! And Belle Vie Photography- thanks for taking such great shots! Click the below link to read the article on AroundMainLine.com

Mommy’s http://aroundmainline.com/living/mommys-high-heel-shoes.html High Heel Shoes

Posted using ShareThis

A Video Review! Thanks Mrs. Mo

2010-03-08T22:45:00.000-05:00

3/8/2010 I met Hilary at the fun Todays Moms Event in NYC last summer. Thanks Mrs. Mo for the awesome video review (It's First!) of Mommy's High Heel Shoes.

If you are looking for the scoop on people, places and businesses in the Garden State- check out www.MrsMoNj.com or follow her on Twitter @MrsMoNJ.

How do you throw these away?

2010-02-28T11:16:00.002-05:00

2/28/2010
Organizing today- One of many pictures in my office. This one, my 5 y/
o daughter made me.

"It's me and you," she said. I hope she's still making me these pics when she's 10!

Philly Moms Blog- Philadelphia Snow Storm Post

2010-02-28T00:39:00.000-05:00

2/28/2010
Here is my Latest Philly Moms Blog Post

Philadelphia Snowstorm #4- Are You Snover It? Ready for Flowers?
I'm drinking my cup of french vanilla coffee watching the beautiful flakes begin to fall next to my daughter who is busy (for now) coloring in her girly garden fairy coloring book. "No school- yippee," she says as memories of my own childhood race through my mind.
Philadelphia's fourth snowstorm is already hitting us hard this morning, ironically, right before the Philadelphia Flower Show this weekend. While many people are Snover It, complaining and griping about our city's stinky effort this season to remove the snow from the previous few storms, I'm loving it! As much as I love warm weather, flowers and my gardens in the spring and summer, this record dumping snow has been a blessing and given me several days off of work this winter and more time with my kids.

My husband is gearing up his broom arm in an effort to save our trees from what they predict to be wet heavy snow accompanied by some crazy winds later today. The kids are already bugging him to build up and repair the half melted mini Olympic luge course in our slightly sloped back yard (Don't worry- it's truly mini and not nearly as dangerous as the Vancouver course!) And, of course, to bring our "Frosty" the snowman back to life again! It's hard to believe in just a month or so we will be watching the daffodils and tulips pop their heads out of the ground and the hummingbirds come out from hiding.

But for those of you who can't wait for spring to get here (and it's Snow Wonder!)- The Philadelphia Flower Show begins this Sunday- February 28th, 2010 down at the Philadelphia Convention Center. For an entire week, you can walk into a room of flowers and plants that have been fooled by artificial lighting and temperature controls. To those flowers, these winter storms didn't exist!

This is an original post to Philly Moms Blog. Kristie is the author of the children's book:Mommy's High Heel Shoes and works full time in the Bio Oncology world. When she isn't enjoying the snow, you can find her writing on her personal blog and Real Mommy Reviews. Follow her adventures on Twitter @MommyshhShoes. This photograph was taken in her own backyard by her husband, Chris.

Mommy's High Heel Shoes for you iPod and iPad. Yep, It's an iTunes App!

2010-02-25T11:06:00.005-05:00

Click THIS LINK to dowload the Mommy's High Heel Shoes App for your iPod or iPad. It's just 99 cents and so far getting all 5 Star Reviews. Kids love the interactive app and read it alone or along with the hardcover picture book!

Have fun and let me know what you think!

Kristie

Tweet forwarded by @mommyshhshoes

2010-02-23T09:45:00.000-05:00

mommyshhshoes: http://bit.ly/cquvgD Afraid to talk about Work Life Balance?

Original Tweet: http://twitter.com/mommyshhshoes/statuses/9528239639

Sent via TweetDeck (www.tweetdeck.com)

The No Phone Zone- What Do You Think?

2010-02-22T17:11:00.004-05:00

February 22, 2010
My Latest Philly Moms Blog Post... What do you all think?

Making My Car A No Phone Zone Is Just NOT For Me.

Cell phone I'm a huge fan of being a safe driver, NOT a distracted driver. I'm also a huge fan of Oprah. But I'm just NOT on board with her recent campaign to make our cars No Phone Zones. I've been in sales for 15+ years and have had a cell phone since as long as I can remember. I've had BIG phones, speaker phones, flip phones and now have a blackberry and an iPhone (yes, I have two phones!) I'm on the phone so much that I generally get a new phone every year. Verizon...LOVES me.

Talking on my phone while driving makes all the travel I do bearable and time efficient. It's lonely and tough being on the road so much, especially when I'm missing my three kids at home and thinking about all of the things that I need to get taken care of for both work and my personal life. And if I pulled over to the side of the road to make calls, I'd be there all day. If I waited until I got home, I'd be ignoring my kids and be a distracted parent. I'm all about time management. My car is my second home and my office. Would you take the phone out of your home or office?

I did think about signing Oprah's no phone pledge. I clicked on her website and when I thought about it, I just could NOT check all of the boxes. There were three boxes. The first, to agree to NOT text while driving. The second, to only use a hands-free device while talking. And the third, to completely agree to NEVER text or talk while driving- making your car a NO Phone Zone. I could only agree to the first.

Continue reading "Making My Car A No Phone Zone Is Just NOT For Me." »

Learn A Lesson Or Two From the Dancing Guy!

2010-02-16T09:27:00.001-05:00

2/16/2009

Leadership Lessons from Dancing Guy

2010-02-16T09:08:00.001-05:00

Check out this video on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fW8amMCVAJQ&feature=youtube_gdata

Kristie

Sent from my iPhone with as many typos as possible.

Interesting link from BabyCenter

2010-01-27T21:21:00.003-05:00

1/27/2010
kristie@mommyworkshop.com has sent you this BabyCenter link.

Here's something I found on BabyCenter -- take a look!

Working parent's guide to weekend fun (ages 2 to 4)

http://www.babycenter.com/0_working-parents-guide-to-weekend-fun-ages-2-to-4_65393.bc
(If clicking doesn't work, simply cut and paste the link into your Web browser.)

BabyCenter is the leading destination on the Internet for new and expectant parents. To receive our free personalized e-mails written especially for your stage of pregnancy or your child's age, take a minute to join BabyCenter. It's free!

Find out more about BabyCenter membership:
http://www.babycenter.com/

Martha's High Heel Shoes

2010-01-14T11:06:00.000-05:00

Yves St. Laurent...

Making a difference

2010-01-08T10:28:00.004-05:00

1/8/2010
I got this e-mail from my sister in law. I usually don't pass e-mails like this along, but thought this one was particularly heart warming! Sometimes, you'll never know when your making a huge difference. Have a great day!

"ONE OF THE BEST STORIES I'VE EVER HEARD!

As she stood in front of her 5th grade class on the very first day of school, she told the children an untruth. Like most teachers, she looked at her students and said that she loved them all the same. However, that was impossible, because there in the front row, slumped in his seat, was a little boy named Teddy Stoddard.

Mrs. Thompson had watched Teddy the year before and noticed that he did not play well with the other children, that his clothes were messy and that he constantly needed a bath. In addition, Teddy could be unpleasant. It got to the point where Mrs. Thompson would actually take delight in marking his papers with a broad red pen, making bold X's and then putting a big 'F' at the top of his papers.

At the school where Mrs. Thompson taught, she was required to review each child's past records and she put Teddy's off until last. However, when she reviewed his file, she was in for a surprise.

Teddy's first grade teacher wrote, 'Teddy is a bright child with a ready laugh. He does his work neatly and has good manners...he is a joy to be around..'

His second grade teacher wrote, 'Teddy is an excellent student, well liked by his classmates, but he is troubled because his mother has a terminal illness and life at home must be a struggle.'

His third grade teacher wrote, 'His mother's death has been hard on him. He tries to do his best, but his father doesn't show much interest, and his home life will soon affect him if some steps aren't taken.'

Teddy's fourth grade teacher wrote, 'Teddy is withdrawn and doesn't show much interest in school. He doesn't have many friends and he sometimes sleeps in class.'

By now, Mrs. Thompson realized the problem and she was ashamed of herself. She felt even worse when her students brought her Christmas presents, wrapped in beautiful ribbons and bright paper, except for Teddy's. His present was clumsily wrapped in the heavy, brown paper that he got from a grocery bag. Mrs. Thompson took pains to open it in the middle of the other presents. Some of the children started to laugh when she found a rhinestone bracelet with some of the stones missing, and a bottle that was one-quarter full of perfume. But she stifled the children's laughter when she exclaimed how pretty the bracelet was, putting it on, and dabbing some of the perfume on her wrist. Teddy Stoddard stayed after school that day just long enough to say, 'Mrs. Thompson, today you smelled just like my Mom used to.'

After the children left, she cried for at least an hour. On that very day, she quit teaching reading, writing and arithmetic. Instead, she began to teach children. Mrs. Thompson paid particular attention to Teddy. As she worked with him, his mind seemed to come alive. The more she encouraged him, the faster he responded. By the end of the year, Teddy had become one of the smartest children in the class and, despite her lie that she would love all the children the same, Teddy became one of her 'teacher's pets..'

A year later, she found a note under her door, from Teddy, telling her that she was the best teacher he ever had in his whole life.

Six years went by before she got another note from Teddy. He then wrote that he had finished high school, third in his class, and she was still the best teacher he ever had in life.

Four years after that, she got another letter, saying that while things had been tough at times, he'd stayed in school, had stuck with it, and would soon graduate from college with the highest of honors. He assured Mrs. Thompson that she was still the best and favorite teacher he had ever had in his whole life.

Then four more years passed and yet another letter came. This time he explained that after he got his bachelor's degree, he decided to go a little further. The letter explained that she was still the best and favorite teacher he ever had. But now his name was a little longer. The letter was signed, Theodore F. Stoddard, MD.

The story does not end there. You see, there was yet another letter that spring. Teddy said he had met this girl and was going to be married. He explained that his father had died a couple of years ago and he was wondering if Mrs.. Thompson might agree to sit at the wedding in the place that was usually reserved for the mother of the groom. Of course, Mrs. Thompson did. And guess what? She wore that bracelet, the one with several rhinestones missing. Moreover, she made sure she was wearing the perfume that Teddy remembered his mother wearing on their last Christmas together.

They hugged each other, and Dr. Stoddard whispered in Mrs. Thompson's ear, 'Thank you Mrs. Thompson for believing in me. Thank you so much for making me feel important and showing me that I could make a difference.'

Mrs. Thompson, with tears in her eyes, whispered back. She said, 'Teddy, you have it all wrong. You were the one who taught me that I could make a difference. I didn't know how to teach until I met you.'

(For you that don't know, Teddy Stoddard is the Dr at Iowa Methodist in Des Moines that has the Stoddard Cancer Wing.)

Warm someone's heart today. . . pass this along. I love this story so very much, I cry every time I read it. Just try to make a difference in someone's life today. Tomorrow. Just 'do it'."

Random acts of kindness, I think they call it!"

Author Unknown

Today is going to be an awesome day!

2010-01-08T09:52:00.001-05:00

1/8/2010 Today is going to be an awesome day.

Kristie

Sent from my iPhone with as many typos as possible.

Soak Up Every Minute- 2010!

2010-01-03T22:47:00.008-05:00

1/3/2010
Today I was in my very cold office trying to get organized and ready for tomorrow...back to work after having 13 days off in a row with my family. I looked up at my bulletin board- a board I put up 2 years ago as my Vision Board. Smack in the middle of the Bulletin Board is a picture my daughter made during her 1st year of pre-school that says, "Life will be Great in 2008!" I looked at the board and thought, "Is it really 2010?" I mean really? My husband and I have been together now 10 years (married 7 1/2) We have 3 healthy kids who mean the world to us- they are my heart. We are truly blessed.

And as I write this post, my little baby is sleeping on my shoulder making her cute squeaky noises (as usual). When I think that she is 5 months old already, my eyes tear up at the thought of how quickly this baby stage flies by. My big girl is 5 already- kindergarten next year. My son will be 4 this May. On New Years day, we put our Baby Bear in the jumper in the door way. She found her legs...jumping, smiling and bouncing all over the place. She's been giggling, interacting...growing up- just as fast (maybe faster) as my older two. I just want to soak up every minute with her, with all 3 of them.

So my #1 New Years Resolution is just that!

To soak up every minute of being with my 3 kids- which to me means a few things:

Listening- When my kids are telling me a story, I vow to stop what I am doing and listen...really listen and be in the moment with them soaking up their little voices.
Looking- When I am being presented with the latest painted picture or paper craft, I am going to stop and soak up the colors.
Hanging up the Phone- I am promising to be with my kids on the way to or from school, talking to them, sharing and soaking up the things in their day- not planning a meeting or small talking with friends. I will also try to limit the phone at home for the few hours I have with them before bedtime.

Of course, being the Type A girl I am, there are several other things on my resolution list which include:

Updating that 2008 vision board.
Fostering my friendships with those friends who make me feel good and with those who I aspire to be more like- not worrying about those friends who seem to never make time for me or make me question me. I heard a motivational speaker at work last month who said, "Surround yourself with your A team!"
Sticking to a budget...yep- that means Starbucks trips may have to cease for a while.
Eating less meat- making more vegetarian dishes. Eating more vegetables and fruits-not getting lazy with the kids either- encouraging them to try new foods.
Yoga- need to find a class to go to again.
De-cluttering! Getting rid of stuff I don't use and figuring out a system for all the paper.
Blog more regularly and more authentically (not worrying about what people will think all the time!
Less TV- not that I really watch that much, but I feel like it's always on in the background.

Happy New Year!

Borders Book Signing- Warrington, PA

2009-12-16T22:58:00.004-05:00

12/16/2009

Come visit me on Friday-December 18th at the Borders Books in Warrington, PA where I will be joining two other picture book authors (Jonathan McSurdy and William Bentrim) for a fun holiday book signing event!

Click Here For More Details!

2009-12-12T23:12:00.002-05:00

A Cutie in Mommy's High Heel Shoes

2009-11-30T17:11:00.002-05:00

Every now and then I come across some cute videos on Youtube. Check out this cutie!

Santa's Sleigh is Full of Mommy's High Heel Shoes

2009-11-29T10:16:00.010-05:00

11/29/2009

This morning, as I was packing up a book order for Amazon.com my daughter says, "Mommy, what are you doing with all of those books?"

I replied, "Mailing them so other kids can have one for Christmas?"

She asked, "Are you mailing one to Katelyn?"

I said, "No, Katelyn already has one."

She then asked, "Mom, are you mailing them to Santa?"

I said, "Hmmm...that's a great idea. I will mail them all to Santa at the North Pole!"

She smiled and said, "And then he can give Mommy's High Heel Shoes to lots of kids in his sleigh!"

So sweet...I just couldn't resist sharing!

(From Philly Moms Blog) Happy Halloween! The Swine Flu is Lurking at Our Pre-school!

2009-10-30T09:05:00.008-04:00

10/30/2009

Here is my latest Philly Moms Blog Post....

I can't even believe I'm writing about the swine flu again! I wish I were a sports fan so I could intelligently write about the Phillies and the Yankees playing in the World Series.

But In the midst of filling up 16 pumpkin treat bags for my son's class and baking 18 spooky cupcakes for my daughter's Halloween party, my daughter brought me "the note." Yes, it came home with her latest glittery Halloween paper craft- the DREADED "swine flu" letter from the pre-school director.

I guess I knew it was coming. This virus has been spreading all over Bucks County the Philadelphia area. And now there has been 1 confirmed case of H1N1 virus at my kids' pre-school and several other kids are out sick with "flu-like" symptoms. The note says,"the absentee rate is not alarmingly high at this point. We will keep you informed."
Then, the phone rings....

CLICK HERE TO FINISH READING ON PHILLY MOMS BLOG

Are you vaccinating your kids for Swine Flu? Leave a comment and let me know.

We're still deciding...

Working Moms: What Did You Do Before Work Today?

2009-10-20T10:04:00.023-04:00

10/21/2009

Just curious to see what you all did before work today- wake up time for me 6:00 a.m. I somehow changed a poopy diaper, drank my coffee, packed up two book orders, found matching socks and got the kids dressed, nursed the baby, changed another poopy diaper, made breakfast for the big kids, packed lunches for a class trip to the zoo with Daddy, folded a load of laundry, checked my e-mail, french braided my daughter's hair (because I promised her yesterday when I didn't have time) and now getting up this overdo blog post. No wonder I haven't posted anything in so long!

Tell me what time you got up and what you did today. I'm always so curious what other people are up to before leaving for work. Thank goodness I'm having a home office day....no shower necessary...Shhh!! I'm still in my pajamas studying Oncology information for my new job!

Disclosure Statement: My pjs aren't nearly as cute as the Mommy in this picture and our waffles were frozen Eggos!

Art copyright Pat Achilles- not to be used for any reason without written permission.

Couldn't have said it better- A Working Mom's Courage

2009-09-05T13:45:00.007-04:00

9/5/2009

It's been at least a month since my last post, but for a good reason. I had our third baby (a girl) on August 5th! I'm also about to start a new job in about a month so have been sucking up every last minute doing fun things with two older kids (who both are in pre-school next week) and snuggling this little baby! Yes, my three year old little guy is about to start his first year of pre-school! My almost 5 year old daughter starts her last year of pre-school. It's amazing how quickly the 5 years have just flown right by. It really does feel like yesterday when I brought her home from the hospital and was pushing her around the block in the stroller.

Finding the time to write has been particularly challenging. Usually, I'm up late writing and catching up on e-mails. But lately, just keeping my eyes open past 9:00 p.m. has been a bit tricky.

About a week ago on Twitter I stumbled upon this article: Working Mom's Courage (click here) Really, I couldn't have written a better article! I know the few weeks I have left of maternity leave are just going to fly right by. And it is exactly this "courage" I'm going to need when I go back to work. Yesterday, I received two enormous boxes of training materials for my new Oncology sales job. I'm trying to gather up the courage to open them!

Check this article out and let me know what you think!

Fessing up to being a mom can backfire on job seekers - The Boston Globe

2009-08-02T07:02:00.015-04:00

8/3/2009

Fessing up to being a mom can backfire on job seekers - The Boston Globe

Due to the recent status of my job, naturally this article was of great interest to me. What do you think? Do you think letting employers know that you're a working mother helps or hurts your opportunities for landing a new job? Do you think that your employer hasn't given you opportunities that they may have otherwise if they didn't give you a "Mommy" label?

I'm not sure how I feel about it all at the moment. On a recent interview (interviewed while on maternity leave at 36 weeks pregnant) there was no hiding that I was at least a mother to be. During a discussion regarding my performance with the company, it came up that one year (out of 6), I did not receive the sales achievement award. I mentioned that I was on an extended maternity leave that particular year (and I'm talking only taking an extra 6 weeks unpaid). I continued that sales numbers qualified me for the achievement award, but I did not receive it because being on unpaid leave disqualified me. I discussed the things I did while out on leave (which were all NOT required) to keep in touch with my customers (i.e. sending out mailers, keeping in touch with my biggest customers and continuing to answer all of my own phone calls) to maintain my great numbers. In my eyes, this demonstrated my strong work ethic & dedication to my position. Who cares if I got the "official" award?

When I mentioned maternity leave, one of the managers asked, "Oh, how many kids do you have?" I answered open and honestly, "Two, this will be my third." And that was pretty much the end of that conversation. Literally, my life is an open book. I don't think I would try to hide the fact that I am a mother on an interview, even if I wasn't interviewing with an enormous belly. But the fact is- I had it all out in the open (literally).

How would you answer the question, "What is your proudest accomplishment?" I wasn't asked this question on this particular interview, but have been asked this in the past. Would you talk about an award you won or promotion you got? Maybe a competitive sport you excelled at? Or would you be honest and say, "My kids!"

My kids are my proudest accomplishment, but would that be the "right" answer? They are the reason I work hard and the reason I continue to be successful. And if a man was asked that question and answered, "My kids!" would he be judged or would that make him an even stronger candidate for the position? I can truly say that because of my children, I get more done, work harder and can balance more. Have you ever heard the phrase: "If you want to get something done, ask the busiest person in the room."?

Tell me what you think! Read this story....

Artwork copyright of Pat Achilles

Role Mommy Event for Budding Authors

2009-08-01T02:28:00.006-04:00

8/1/2009

On July 29th, I was happy to participate in a Role Mommy University Event. Role Mommy had a conference call for authors about how to write, publish or self-publish, build a platform and sell your book or manuscript.

Author and Self Publisher, Stacey Kannenberg, of Let's Get Ready for Kindergarten who has sold more than 70,000 copies gives some awesome advice on her success! Take a listen to her recent interview with Role Mommy and get to know her!

Where have I been? What have I been up to?

2009-07-30T18:16:00.011-04:00

Image copyright of Pat Achilles

Where have I been? What have I been up to? It's been a while since I have posted anything worthwhile on this blog. It's amazing how life gets so busy and moves so quickly!

For starters, I am almost 39 weeks pregnant so don't exactly sleep very well at night (only on the couch when I try to read or watch TV) AND I have given up the caffeine that gets me moving in the morning for fear of a caffeine addicted baby. The decaf tea, although delicious, is just not doing it for me in the morning. Baby girl is scheduled to be delivered next Wed (August 5th) if she doesn't decide to come on her own sooner. I can't wait for her to be here and for my body to be my own again (if you don't count nursing).

I then got my pink slip from my company a couple weeks ago (they took the product I sell off the market a few months ago) Nothing to do with the economy- just bum luck!

Find out more about that HERE!

I have been given some notice, but have basically been a Stay Home Mom for the past couple of months now and never been busier. I don't know if it's just that I am trying to catch up on all of the things I normally can't do because I am out working like taking the kids to swim lessons, playdates and organizing the sippy cup cabinet and garage. Or if it's just the type- A in me that just can't sit still...always having to be productive. But until I go back to work full time, it's been a great opportunity to spend some amazing time with my kids. It's the maternity leave that may just be extended a little longer than I thought.

And then because I am pretty crazy (although only at half speed when I am pregnant), I decided to officially launch another Blog called RealMommyReviews- which has been quite fun, but a lot of work. Since I'm not sleeping, I may as well be productive! It's been fun receiving all sorts of different products and coming up with interesting content for the site. I am also promoting my book and setting up school visits- See Here for my latest Press.

Some exciting news not posted on my website yet is that my Illustrator, Pat Achilles, has been invited to the First International Children's Book Festival in Dubai February 2010. She is so excited to go and to be able to demonstrate her amazing artistic ability and showcase her work and our book!

Blogging for Philly Moms Blog (which has been such a wonderful opportunity to connect with some amazing Moms) has also been keeping me busy. Although I only write two posts a month- finding just the right thing to write takes a lot of time.

Then....there's Twitter, my new love and hobby! If you aren't on Twitter, it's hard to explain exactly what it is about it. It's the social Marketing/Networking Mecca. I also find it a lot easier/quicker to use than Facebook and you don't get sucked in looking at your elementary school friend's pictures (which I love doing), joining a million groups and answering silly surveys such as, "If you were a Crayon, which color would you be?" Or "Tell me 3 things about...." Yes-with my ADD, Facebook can be very distracting!

So I am off for now, but will leave you with some treasures from my kids these past few months!

Every morning my son eats Raisin Bran and no matter how many times I correct him....he continues to call it "Raisin Brown." After all, it is Brown. I think I need to market him for a funny commercial for Kellogs!
My son has told me loudly in a Public Restroom, "Mommy, your butt is too big for the potty!" Shhhh........
My daughter is now riding on two wheels (yes, no more trainers), can swing "all by herself" on the swing "No pushing Mommy" and she can also keep her head above water & swim half way to the middle of the pool!
My kids favorite new joke: "What kind of music to bunnies listen to?" Give up?? "Hip-Hop!"

If you are on Twitter- please Follow Me and say hello!

Real Mommy Reviews

2009-07-26T12:06:00.001-04:00

Real Mommy Reviews

Shared via AddThis

Philly Moms: Crocs and Escalators- NOT a Good Mix!

2009-07-06T12:38:00.003-04:00

Philly Moms: Crocs and Escalators- NOT a Good Mix!

(click link for story)

Something we all need to be aware of.....

And Watch this!

Posted using ShareThis

Philly Moms Blog Party

2009-06-18T23:14:00.005-04:00

I wanted to first of all thank my friend Mary Fran Bontempo for driving to our Philly Moms Blog Launch Party in last week in the rain. I admit that I am not the same social girl when I am pregnant (let alone 8 months pregnant) and don't know if I would have made it without her. I think I would be completely content to just hibernate in my house for the entire nine months. It was really so wonderful to meet in person all of the online voices :)

Also a HUGE thank you to Shannon and Anna Maria from PBS Kids Sprout for offering their wonderful space for the event!!

http://www.sproutonline.com/sprout/home/jump.aspx

And for all the SWAG!

Calphalon

8” Omelette Pan- http://www.calphalon.com/calphalon/consumer/products/productGroup.jhtml?catId=CLCat270008

Goody Stuff

Therapy Brush-Dandruff http://goody.com/Products/Styling%20Tools/Brushes/Cushion/Cushion.aspx

Therapy Brush-Shine http://goody.com/Products/Styling%20Tools/Brushes/Cushion/Cushion.aspx

Ouchless Purse Brush http://goody.com/Products/Styling%20Tools/Brushes/Purse/Purse.aspx

StayPut Hair Elastics http://goody.com/Products/Accessories/Ponytail_Holders/Elastics/Elastics.aspx

Sharpie Markers and Bag

http://www.sharpieuncapped.com/default.aspx (their new community site- very cool!)

Rubbermaid

http://rubbermaid.com/rubbermaid/product/product.jhtml?prodId=HPProd280016&utm_source=rubbermaid&utm_medium=flash&utm_content=efl_page&utm_campaign=food_storage_08

And for those of you lucky enough to be winners:

Calphalon One Cookware: http://www.calphalon.com/calphalon/consumer/products/productGroup.jhtml?catId=CLCat100370

4 pack of tickets from the Please Touch Museum: http://www.pleasetouchmuseum.org/

Suite Slumbers

http://www.gracobaby.com/Catalog/Pages/ProductListingPage.aspx?catID=10:10427||1&subCatID=11:10480||1

Thank you Sarah for taking great footage of the event!

Philly Moms Blog: Philadelphia Freedom- Letting Go Of The "Stuff"

2009-06-15T17:31:00.007-04:00

Philadelphia Freedom- Letting Go Of The "Stuff"
My latest Philly Moms Blog Post.....

Last week I decorated baby number three's nursery, which was a guest room full of "stuff." You know that stuff that you just hold on to either because you think you may use it again or because of the memories the stuff represents. After moving much of the stuff out to the garage where it joined forces with our other stuff, I felt completely overwhelmed by it all! I decided it was time to purge. I knew I had to be my own episode of Clean Sweep!

I also knew this stuff could earn us some money, something everyone can use with the current state of the economy. I thought about a yard sale, but the idea of lugging all of the stuff outside, setting it up and price tagging it all exhausted me (especially being 8 months pregnant). And if it didn't sell? Then what, lug it all back in? Yikes!

In the past, I have listed items on E-bay, but it has been a while. Then I thought, "how would I ever ship a big double stroller or heavy box of extra kitchen tiles?" Of course I had heard of Craigslist, but to be honest was a little frightened to use it because of some of the recent news stories. Did I really want to risk that weirdos would knock on my front door just to make a few extra dollars? Oh, what are the chances... READ THE REST OF THIS POST ON PHILLY MOMS BLOG-CLICK HERE

Where does all of our "stuff" go when we just throw it in the trash???
Click Here- Check Out This Video!

3D Ultrasound

2009-05-23T10:59:00.005-04:00

On Thursday, we ventured to a 3D ultra-sound place called Baby's First Peek in Chalfont, PA. We elected to have an additional elective ultrasound because my kids were sick when I went for my 20 week ultra-sound at the hospital so I had to go it alone while my husband stayed home with the kids. And since this is our 3rd and last baby we figured...why not! This really isn't a good time for us to be spending money frivolously with all that is going on with my job right now, but of course we were able to rationalize spending the money. It cost us $175.00 which we figured we could spend at Target in about an hour. We were there for one hour and got 6 printed pictures, 76 pictures on a CD, a DVD of the baby's activity while we were there and two balloons for the kids. It was nice to be able to bring the kids with us and there was a toy room that kept them very busy after they were bored with their 30 second peek at the baby in Mommy's belly.

On the way there I told my kids we were going to look at your baby sister in Mommy's belly with a special tool. My son says, "Are they going to use a hammer or a screwdriver?" Thank goodness that wasn't the case!

It was neat to see our little baby girl put her foot in her eye socket, suck on her umbilical cord and do lots of wiggling! It was also great to experience seeing the baby with my husband. We found out that our baby was a girl at the 20 week ultrasound, but didn't get the best view of her "privates" so it was very reassuring to see that baby #3 is confirmed for sure a girl! We also loved seeing her chubby cheeks and little lips-just a couple more months to go and we'll get to meet her in person!

Today I got a Thank You Letter from the Speaker of the House- Nancy Pelosi.

2009-04-30T13:15:00.012-04:00

4/30/2009
What a nice surprise I got in the mail today from Washington D.C., a letter from Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House thanking me for the copy of my book I sent her. I'm thrilled you loved the book and thank you for being such a strong role model for not only other working mothers, but also for so many young girls in this country!

She writes:

"Many thanks for a copy of your book, Mommy's High Heel Shoes. What a wonderfully fun story illustrating the many different roles that working mothers fulfill.

Best wishes for continued health and happiness surrounded by friends and family for many years to come."

best regards,

Nancy Pelosi

Speaker of the House

(Click on the letter below to see it larger)

Also, see a review I got from Alaska. Piper Palin (Sarah's daughter)

CLICK HERE

Finally- something Republicans and Democrats can agree on!

They like my book: Mommy's High Heel Shoes!

As a working mom, do you have this problem? I do!

2009-04-28T11:19:00.007-04:00

4/28/20009
A writer and virtual friend, Jodi, from DC Metro Moms Blog recently told me she is writing an article about a working mom and wanted to know if she could use some artwork from my book. Of course, I said yes!

I just read her post: When you are the Only Mom who has a Job on the DC Metro Moms Blog and it turns out that I have had the same issue at my daughter's pre-school. Being one of the only working moms was more of a problem last year than this year though. The school always seems to plan events like field trips or the mother's day lunch at the last minute and then I have to scramble and have to re-arrange my entire schedule or miss it (Boo!).

This year, I asked the Director at the beginning of the year to let me know ahead of time when the events are because I love them so much and hate to dissapoint my daughter by not being there. I feel lucky because the Director (Thank you Joan!) even checked with me to check my schedule before arranging the pumpkin patch trip. I do find that I have to be very pro-active and positive in communicating my needs as a working mom though- which does add more to my to do list. I forgot to check in about this year's Mother's Day event, but luckily didn't have to re-arrange too much! Playdates with friends from school are another story....

Todays Moms Book Launch and Diaper Drive Event NYC

2009-04-25T08:28:00.012-04:00

4/25/2009
What a fun day I had yesterday in NYC with one of my best friends, Michelle, at the Todays Moms Book Launch Party! We got up early (5:00 am) and took the 7:20 train from Hamilton, NJ to the city to attend the Todays Moms book launch party and diaper drive to benefit www.babybuggy.org.

I was thrilled to give autographed copies of Mommy's High Heel Shoes to Sarah Ferguson (Yes the-Duchess of York!), Natalie Morales (Today Show Anchor),
Mary Ann Zoellner & Alicia Ybarbo (Authors of Todays Moms and producer for the Today Show). It really was a great event and wonderful to meet so many other beautiful & interesting Mommies!

ps. No-it's not just the camera that makes you look 10 pounds heavier. I have already gained 20 pounds! Baby #3 is due August 5th!

Dr. Laura- Don't Feel Sorry for Working Moms!

2009-04-16T12:19:00.008-04:00

4/16/2008
Check out Meredith's interview with Dr. Laura on the Today Show! Tell me what you think.

Thank you Meredith for sticking up for the working moms out there....especially all of those Moms who have to work in this "economy." While some moms choose to work, not all women have options about working. Dr. Laura, instead of feeling sorry for us when we feel guilty about the things we are missing while we are at work- maybe help us focus on the things we don't miss and what we are contributing to our families!
If we focus on the times we do have instead of what we don't have- we'll feel good! You talk about stay home moms and how they don't get the support they need, what about the support working moms need? Enough of the Mommy Wars already....can't we just all support eachother as Moms and the decisions that we make for our families?

Maddie Alice, Her Mother's Greatest Joy

2009-04-08T11:11:00.007-04:00

4/8/09 As many of you know, I have been blogging for Philly Moms Blog for the past few months. Through this SVMOMS blogging community, I have been blessed to meet so many wonderful Moms and have been touched, enlightened and inspired by so many of their stories. Most of my new friends I have only met virtually, while others I have had the chance to meet in person through different events.

Last night, while my kids were snuggled soundly in bed, I got in my own bed and settled in with American Idol on TV and my laptop beside me. I logged on to twitter and started reading all of the updates. Mamasphor's updates about her little girl Madeline Alice caught my eye. Maddie Alice was in the hospital and very sick. My heart sunk with just the thought of what mamaspohr (Heather Spohr) was going through. Her last tweet was "They're going to intubate her, I'm freaking out!" I then went to her website to read about this little girl's story. Before I went to bed, I said a prayer for little Maddie Alice and her family.

This morning when I logged on to twitter, tears fell from my eyes. Other Moms were sending condolences to mamaspohr. Maddie Alice didn't make it through the night. Below is Youtube clip that was posted a while back of Maddie Alice- giggling. The family is asking that donations be made to the March of Dimes in memory of her daughter Madeline Alice Spohr in lieu of flowers. I have no words when things like this happen...I am so sorry for your loss.

Why is your Mom so special? Giveaway contest!

2009-04-06T17:36:00.006-04:00

April 6th, 2009
With Mother's Day on the horizon, Sunday- May 10th, we are having a giveaway contest for a High Heel Shoe Cake Server! Leave us a comment telling us why your Mom is so special to you. The winner will win a high heel shoes cakes server! Winner will be announced on May 1st!

Coupon Code

2009-03-25T13:05:00.003-04:00

Use the Coupon Code: Cupcake and get 10% off Mommy's High Heel Shoes Book and your total order on our site: http://www.mommyshighheelshoes.com

.50 cents from every book purchased here goes help working mothers through Kiva.org.

Sour Cream Chocolate Chip Cake

2009-03-10T21:41:00.007-04:00

3/10/200
A cake recipe even the busiest working mom can make!

If you think you don't have time to bake a cake, try my Mom's Chocolate Chip Cake recipe! It's delicious and easy and quick to make. So many of my friend's have asked for the recipe so I thought I would post it here to share with everyone! Enjoy!!

Sour Cream Chocolate Chip Cake
Ingredients:

1/2 c Butter (1 stick)
1 c Sugar
2 Eggs
1 c +2T sour cream
2 c Flour
1 t Salt
1 t Baking powder
1 t Baking soda
1 t Vanilla
12 oz Pkg semi sweet choc chips
1/4 c Cinnamon sugar

Directions: Grease Pan. Cream the butter and sugar. Add the eggs, one at a time. Add the sour cream and vanilla. Beat until well blended. Blend together the dry ingredients. Add them to the creamed mixture. Mix well. Spoon about 1/2 the batter into a greased 9 x 13 rectangle cake pan. Sprinkle batter with a third of the Choc. Chips. Spoon the rest of the batter over the Choc. Chips. Sprinkle with remaining Choc. Chips and Cinnamon sugar. Bake at 350 for 30-35 minutes or until cake tester comes out clean. Yum!

Did I mention our house is haunted?

2009-02-26T04:31:00.005-05:00

2/26/2009
Now we don't know if our house is really haunted, but I am up right now at 4:30 am and hear something that sounds like my kids shaking their piggy bank. Or maybe like a mouse in a jar of jellybeans or peanuts? Could that be what it really is? We don't have jellybeans, but we do have peanuts. Hmmm....should I check? Scary....

I remember I lived in Jamaica Plain, MA years ago right outside of Boston for grad school with my roommate Michelle. We were in this adorable little brownstone. We were of course connected to several other tenants, one of which called the landlord and reported that she had cockroaches!! YUCK! So the landlord called us and asked us to check to see if we had them. He told us to wait until it is dark, get a flash light, go into the kitchen and flash the light under the kitchen sink. I'll never forget it....we were scared to death! Gripping on to eachother, we slowly made our move into the kitchen and squabbled over who should open the cabinet. To be honest I don't even remember if we had them, but we screamed when we opened the cabinet with just the thought of giant bugs crawling under our sink.

Since we moved into this house about 2 years ago, we hear all kinds of unexplainable creaks, squeaks and bumps. My husband and I joke that we have a ghost in our house. I tell him that it's a friendly one. So this morning I am up for no other reason than I am pregnant. Yes, only 16 weeks, but already have insomnia. So I'm sitting here on the couch checking e-mail and figuring out my day, which starts in about 2 hours, and I hear a rattling noise in our kitchen. Now I'm convinced there has to be something going on in my kitchen. I put my computer down and quick throw on the lights thinking that I will find something to explain the strange noise and of course-NOTHING. But the wierd thing is now there is no more noise. Did I frighten our ghost away? Wait...I hear it again. Maybe I should just leave the light on in there or put the tv on so I won't hear it.

Philly Moms Blog Post: Slum Dog

2009-02-25T00:59:00.002-05:00

1/25/2009
Here is my latest Philly Moms Blog Post! Let me know if you've seen Slum Dog Millionaire and what you thought. If you haven't seen it- Read My Warning!

I'm up again tonight at 1:00 typing away here. I fell asleep in my son's bed around 8:00 until about 11:00 so am now paying for my catnap. I finally got to bed again about an hour ago and then he was up coughing with a super stuffy nose. My daughter of course heard him up and is now in my bed. The little cutie pie has been sick since Friday so I couldn't turn her away. I said, "Katie, what can Mommy get for you?" She said, "A snuggle." I mean how do you say no to that!

And my husband is on a painting mission in our downstairs hallway. Did I tell you that our entire house was painted different shades of brown when we moved in two years ago. Yes, baby poo brown, puke brown, dingy brown, tan brown, light brown, mud brown.....You get it- sort of like Forest Gump's shrimp friend! They didn't even choose a nice chocolate brown. The hallway and dining room are the last remaining brown rooms- not for long!

Why am I still up?

2009-02-14T01:11:00.004-05:00

Why am I still up? Could it be because I was craving a vanilla milkshake and instead searched the cabinets and fridge for nothing that would meet my needs. Then, decided to try to eat a meatball sandwich (YUCK) which luckily a few bites into it I had to put down. I do know that when I do go up to bed that I will be up every couple of hours to use the bathroom.

I am only 15 weeks pregnant (with #3), but the frequent trips to the potty have been torturing me since the first couple of weeks. In addition, my skin is breaking out. And yes, I am gaining weight at a rapid speed. BUT- I can't wait to just stare at our new baby in August and smell it's little head. So all of this stuff I am briefly complaining about is really not a big deal. Ahhh.... I feel better-off to bed!

Mommy's High Heel Shoes Goes Digital!

2009-02-14T00:24:00.004-05:00

A sneak preview of the digital version of Mommy's High Heel Shoes. It really gives my book a whole new dimension!

Now you can download Mommy's High Heel Shoes for your ipod touch, iphone or computer! Your child can read along with the book or watch when you are in the car or out and about. Now screen time can be reading time too!

Here is a 25% off code MHHS. Just type the code in at the Mobistories checkout!

Leave me a comment and tell me what you think!

The call I've been waiting for!

2009-02-10T20:49:00.006-05:00

For months, we have been trying to potty train my son. He's got the pee pee on the potty thing down. He even stands up like a big boy and uses his "shooter" to make bubbles in the water. However, we have been struggling with how to get him to poop on the potty. He usually waits until he has a pull up on either early in the morning or right before bed. He sneaks off and hides in the closet or behind the sofa and says, "Mommy go away! Don't smell my poop!" I've tried to bribe him with chocolate, candy, marshmellows (his fav) and so many other things. So for the past few days, I have been saying, "Mommy will bring you home a surprise from work when you poop on the potty. I'll bring you a big orange balloon!" (his favorite color of course!)

Today, I got the best call on my cell phone. "Mommy, I go poop on the potty!" Of course, I was thrilled, "Good Boy- you are such a big boy- I'm so proud of you!"

So here is a funny story. I stop at the dollar store on my way home and pick out an orange balloon and a green one (so my daughter of course has one to play with). The dollar store guy was trying to upsell me some balloons. He says, "what's the special occasion? We have lots of fun balloons- take a look!" I tell him, "My son pooped on the potty!" His face was priceless. I said, "what do you mean- you don't have Happy Poop on the Potty Balloons?" He did find me a potty book for boys though from the back of the store. I had to buy it. Even though the book was $2.0o at the dollar store??

Mommy's High Heel Shoes are on TV

2009-01-23T19:38:00.006-05:00

1/23/2009

I had my first television appearance yesterday with Eve Tannery- Channel 69 Allentown/Phildelphia. The whole experience was really a blast! I meticulously picked out the coolest shoes to wear for the interview and of course my feet were hidden behind a coffee table- just my luck :) I'll have to post a picture of my tv shoes soon. It was fun chatting with Eve about my children's book: Mommy's High Heel Shoes and my personal experiences as a working mother. Thanks for having me on- Eve :)

Here are the links to the show!! Let me know what you think!

SEGMENT 1

SEGMENT 2

Mobistories Version of Mommy's High Heel Shoes is launched!!

2009-01-22T00:01:00.004-05:00

1/22/2009

Great News! The digital version of Mommy's High Heel Shoes is available. Mobistories gives Mommy's High Heel Shoes a whole new dimension. You can download it straight from the site for your iphone, ipod touch or computer. It's so much fun- now your child can follow right along with the animated version of the book. It will also be available on DVD to play from anywhere- car, tv or computer! The music was done by a Hollywood composer named Stephen Endelman- very cool! I did the voiceover for Mommy, which was so fun. And a little girl named Juliann is an adorable Cakes!

Click on this link to see a sneak preview!

It's a Wonderful LIfe!

2009-01-20T23:41:00.003-05:00

So just when I thought I had it all figured out- you know how to balance my time with the kids, husband, work, book & life- we got some news! Some wonderful news, actually. Yes, I am pregnant with our third :) My husband and I went out on a much needed date night early in December. We were going to go see It's a Wonderful Life up at a little theater in Stockton, NJ. But at the last minute changed our minds and decided to eat local and finish up some Christmas shopping. At dinner I told my husband that I have been "feeling pregnant", but it's probably all in my head. I told him that I was just peeeing all of the time and that I woke up all sweaty one night. I thought maybe I was just drinking too much coffee and not getting enough sleep. Things were just so busy there for a while with the launch of Mommy's High Heel Shoes....among so many other things.

So after a yummy relaxing hot dinner that I actually got to eat slowly AND a few stops at different shops in town, we made our last stop of the evening. It was to CVS....for stocking stuffers and of course a 3 pack of preganancy testers. I threw the test sticks in the basket thinking I'll just get the 3 pack since I'm not really pregnant....good to have extra sticks around if I get another false alarm in the future (or as it turned out- in case I need to pee on a second one to confirm the first one was right.)

When we got home, my Mom was watching TV (Thanks Mom for babysitting). She asked us, "How was the play?" We told her how we ended up just staying in town after all. She said, "Oh, well! It's a Wonderful Life is on Right now so you can just watch it on TV....Look!" And just as I looked up at the TV I heard the little child say, "everytime a bell rings an angel gets it's wings!" Yes, I knew I was pregnant right then without peeing on the stick! Of course, I did after my Mom left. Some things are just meant to be :) That night, I knew It's a Wonderful Life!

Thank you Metropolotan Mama!

2009-01-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

1/13/2009

Thank you Metropolotan Mama!

Stephanie from Metropolan Mam says, "The story is about a little girl, who tries on all of her mommy’s shoes after her mom leaves for work. She wonders why mommy has so many shoes and what she does at work. The illustrations (by Pat Achilles) are modern, fun, and fresh. The non-rhyming text is straightforward. The message is clear: mommy loves her work, but she loves being a mommy most of all."

Philly Moms Blog

2009-01-12T17:20:00.002-05:00

1/12/2009

I have been so busy with work after the long holiday that I have hardly had a second to write anything new.

Here is my latest Philly Moms Blog post.

"I have to admit I have been quite the slacker over the past few weeks. But isn't that what holidays are for? I had much needed time off for two whole weeks over the Christmas/New Year holiday. After a hectic Christmas Eve and Christmas day running around, I did absolutely nothing. We all had colds and sort of hibernated in the house with our boogies and coughs.

In fact, I think I went a few days without showering and I am certain that I spent several days in my jammies ALL day. One day, I even got up, showered and put my pjs right back on. Because I'm a type A crazy girl most of the time, I'm now feeling a little guilty for simply being so dormant and lethargic. What about organizing my office for the New Year? What about the laundry overflowing in the hamper? And did I mention that our dead Christmas tree is still up with all of the decorations on it? Talk about guilt...

I had to go back to work on Monday and reality has kicked back in. I went from having too much time to do nothing to no time to do way to much. I really don't know when I will be able to get the Christmas boxes from the basement, wrap all of those ornaments up in tissue paper, clean up pine needles, take down the stockings, and haul the whole ordeal back down to the basement. Has anyone seen that new book: Porn for Women?

Let's add a page...Sentimental husband smiling while gently taking the ornaments off the tree and wrapping them in acid free tissue paper. His favorite football team is on the flat screen in the background, but he's not paying any attention to the game. He then puts the perfectly wrapped trimmings into the box in their proper individual spots, hauls the Christmas tree to the woods and vacuums the entire downstairs without me asking. He then says, "Honey, I'll make you a fire right after I put all of this Christmas stuff in the basement" Just thinking about it makes me....

So if you drive by my house and see our dead Christmas tree in our front window, just call me lazy. At least you’ll know there's no porn in my house.

This is an original post to Philly Moms Blog. Kristie is also the author of the children's book:Mommy's High Heel Shoes, has a personal blog, where she writes about her busy life as a working mom and author, and writes product reviews for Real Mommy Reviews. Illustration © Pat Achilles."

NJ.com article

2009-01-06T17:09:00.004-05:00

Here is a wonderful article on NJ.com that mentions Mommy's High Heel Shoes.
Thanks for the wonderful write up Fiona!

CLICK HERE

A fabulous review from Mommy Vents

2008-12-10T20:57:00.005-05:00

12/10/2008

Check out this review! Thank you Mommy Vents :)
Mommy Vents says....

"I was lucky enough to receive a copy of the children's book Mommy's High Heel Shoes. This book is written by Kristie Finnan, who is adorable and a true go getter. I recently had the pleasure of meeting her, and honestly she is dynamic. The beautiful illustrations were done by Pat Achilles.

When I received the book I didn't realize it was about a working mom. I instantly thought, oh I guess I might give it to my sister since she works. But then I read it to my girls and I was so happy that this book was really for ANY MOM. The daughter questions all the different shoes her mommy has, only for the Mom to be able to explain that Mom's have many different jobs hence all the shoes !! The daughter tries to walk in Mommy's high heels and realizes they are a bit tricky to manage. Yes being a Mom is tricky !!! The daughter asks why she wears these tricky, hard to walk in shoes. The answer is because they make me feel good and when I feel good, I am a better Mommy. My friends and I will always chat about how we need some me time, whether it be the gym,or lunch on our own. We always say if we feel good it helps us be a better Mom. I also know my working Mom friends realize that they are better Moms because they prefer to work.

The illustrations are beautiful. I describe them as not as harsh as Pinkalicious, but not too frilly like Fancy Nancy. They are the perfect in between. The Mom is illustrated doing REAL MOM things, on the treadmill, food shopping, wiped out on the couch.

The favorite part of this book for my girls is the hidden ladybug, cupcake and heart on every page. They have the best time looking for each item on each page. As a Mom who has to read books over and over, this is a great way to make the book a bit different each time. These two ladies really thought of everything.

I absolutely recommend this book for ANY Mom. Trust me, this is the perfect book to get your kids for the holidays, they will love it. I adore the author and she was kind enough to let me offer my readers a discount. Use the code momvents when ordering and get a 10% discount. Pass this along to friends and family, and trust me this lady is going to be a big name, be on the cutting edge and get this book now!!!!"

Mommy's High Heel Shoes Makes It's Debut!

2008-12-07T22:55:00.009-05:00

If you are wondering which retail shops carry Mommy's High Heel Shoes, CLICK HERE!
The book is making a splash in fun bookshops and boutiques across the country. To mention a few- Kitson Kids in Hollywood- CA, Auntie Barbara's kids in Beverly Hills- CA, O'Doodles in Chestnut Hill, PA, Doylestown Bookshop, O'Bambino and Busy Bee toys in Doylestown, PA, Farley's Bookshop in New Hope, PA....

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN BUY!

or Buy an autographed copy online!

Courier Times and Intelligencer Article.

2008-12-03T23:34:00.004-05:00

12/3/08

Here is the latest about Mommy's High Heel Shoes in the NEWS. It's in the Bucks County Courier times today and the Intelligencer this Friday 12/5/2008.

CLICK LINK

Piper Palin Loves Mommy's High Heel Shoes!

2008-11-30T23:14:00.021-05:00

11/30/2008

So tonight, I was shuffling through the stack of mail that has been sitting on my desk since before Thanksgiving and found a review card which made my night! How cute is this review from Piper Palin in Alaska?

When I got my early review copies back in September, I saw Piper Palin on TV during the election being so sweet taking care of her little brother on her lap while watching her Mom up on Stage. Then, I noticed the very cool high heel shoes that Sarah Palin was wearing and thought, "that little cutie pie needs a copy of my book!" So, I googled the governors office in Alaska and found the address. Since it was going to the governor's office, I didn't package it too fancy just in case they would be scared of something packed in pink crinkles or with a feathered boa. I thought, "If I were opening Sarah's mail, I would make sure she got my book!" So thank you to the mail person for getting my book to Sarah Palin's family safely! Here is Piper's review! Thank you Piper for sending this along :) I am so thrilled you loved my book and I love how you put a heart over the i in your name!

Here is the cute clip of Piper taking care of baby brother!

Don't you just love her :)

And if you haven't seen this interview with Matt Lauer- take a peek!

A Podcast of my interview with Brad Segall for the Philadelphia Agenda Show- 98.1 WOGL

2008-11-24T23:52:00.007-05:00

November 25th, 2008

On October 26th, I did an interview with Brad Segall for the Philadlelphia Public Agenda (98.1 WOGL). I finally figured out how to download the interview and make it a podcast! The interview gets better as it moves along. I think I was a little nervous in the beginning.

or CLICK HERE

to download a podcast of my interview!

Fan Club Giveaway

2008-11-22T17:51:00.009-05:00

Our November Fan Club Giveaway!
Please leave a comment as to why you LOVE cupcakes!
Prize winner will be randomly drawn on December 1st!

You have until midnight on November 30th, 2008.
You must be a member of our Fan Club to Win!
If you aren't already a member, make sure you sign up now!

New Jersey Moms Blog Launch Party

2008-11-18T06:30:00.005-05:00

After a fun ride in the drenching rain on Saturday night, Mary Fran and I arrived at the New Jersey Moms Blog Lauch Party. When we first arrived at the gallery I thought, "hmmm....where the heck are we?" It was a dark night and the Gold Medal Impressions Gallery in Princeton, NJ. was tucked off the main highway behind another building. After figuring out we were in the right place by seeing the party balloons blown down on the lawn, we got out of the car and sprinted through the rain to the door. What a warm welcome we got from the New Jersey mommies and from Dick Druckman the photographer that owns this gem of a gallery.

After grabbing a drink, I was swooped off with a couple other moms for a tour of the gallery. So, for anyone who didn't get the tour, here are some of the highlights that you missed! Remember this is my first adventure with my video camera. I'm just thrilled I figured out how to get it uploaded!

The Baseball Room....

And a very cool picture of Joe Torre with a great story!

More than just sports at the gallery....thank god!!

Which picture did you bring home?

Thank you ladies for setting up this wonderful event at the Gold Medal Impressions Gallery. It was great to get the invite to your NJ Moms Blog Launch party! I wish I got more footage of us Moms....next party- I promise. Mr. Druckman was just too cute.

I did get Mary Fran though....

ps. If I didn't say goodbye to you at the party, it's because I couldn't tear myself away from my foot massage :) It's a rare opportunity that my wide feet get attention.

An awesome resource for self publishers!

2008-11-17T17:02:00.003-05:00

November 17th, 2008

Fun at Building Blocks!

2008-11-16T23:38:00.010-05:00

November 16th, 2008

Click Picture to see how cute this is!!!!

This makes all the hard work worth it. I got this adorable poster from Mrs. Myers' Pre-K class. It says: "Dear Mrs. Finnan, Thank you for visiting our class and sharing Mommy's High Heel Shoes. It was a lot of fun!

Love, Mrs. Myer's class at Building Blocks."

Thank you so much for this beautiful poster!

Please tell your kids it is hung up proudly in my office!

A Review from Mama Neena

2008-11-16T09:17:00.006-05:00

November 15th, 2008

Here is what Mama Neena had to say about Mommy's High Heel Shoes!

"I love books. I have never made any bones about the fact that I am a book freak! I have this weird obsession with owning books and having them surround me at any given moment. I swear my decorating style is Early American paperback. My children are the same way. We have shoved reading and books down their throats since each of them was a fetus. They love books and my son can read in the bathroom like seasoned old man!

That is partly why I was so excited for the chance to do a book review. Not only is this my first review here on MamaNeena, but it is also my chance to review a new children's book. Books and kids - I'd say I've got that covered pretty well, wouldn't you!?

The book is called Mommy's High Heel Shoes by Kristie Finnan. She was gracious enough to send me an autographed copy and the kids and I all felt like we were opening a present when it arrived.

This is the story of a young girl named Cakes. Cakes uses the time her mommy is at work to try on the many shoes her mother has in her closet. It is during this playtime that she discovers the many different roles and jobs her mommy must have. I was immediately struck with the originality of the story. It was such a nice change to see a book that looked beyond the role of 'mommy' to show that women fill many shoes throughout their day and their lives. They work, garden, cook, socialize, and take care of their families all while still attempting to takes care of themselves.

It did a great job showing how a mother can do more for her family by taking a little time and doing something for herself. Wearing fancy shoes makes Cake's mommy feel good and that helps her to be a better mother. I felt drawn to this particular idea because I think one of the first things mothers tend to do is put themselves on the back burner for the sake of their children. We often struggle with guilt when trying to do things for ourselves. But, this book makes a point to show that taking that time for ourselves is better for our children in the long run because it makes us better mothers.

The artwork for this book is bright, colorful, and full of little details that make it pop. It definitely had a traditional feel to it with the details within the pictures adding a modern twist. Think of it as 1950's art meets 'have it all' mom of the new millennium. The book also includes hidden pictures on each page so that my children and I could find them together.

After I read the book I turned my children lose on it. My four year old daughter immediately pointed out all the things I do just like Cake's mommy. She did ask me if the daddy in the book stayed home while the mommy worked. I told her I didn't know, but she informed me that he probably did because somebody needed to take care of the kids. I suppose in her eyes all families have a parent that stays home. But, I was comforted in knowing that she didn't find it even a little bit strange for the traditional roles to be reversed. My son was fascinated with searching for the hidden pictures. I guess that is expected considering his nickname used to be 'Waldo.'

I can honestly say that this book was not only enjoyable for me to read, but also entertaining for my children. That, alone, is worth a pretty good review. The author was also kind enough to offer my readers a 10% discount when ordering the book. Just enter the code mama on the website when your purchase the book. Offer expires 12/31/08. This would make a great gift for any working mother and child for the upcoming holiday season.

Now I just need to see if I can fit another book on to the already overcrowded kid bookshelf. For this one I'm sure I can make room!"

I'm glad you all loved it. Thanks Mama Neena!! To see Mama Neena's blog click HERE!

Press! The Bucks County Herald....

2008-11-13T19:31:00.008-05:00

11/13/2008

Mommy's High Heel Shoes:

Check out this article that was just written in the Bucks County Herald.

Okay, I admit it...I sometimes speak at a "frenetic pace"

A smiling review!

2008-11-12T09:53:00.004-05:00

November 12th, 2008
So, this review I just received from Aimee- the smiling mama brought tears to my eyes. The struggle all Moms feel when they are being tugged in two directions- one way at home and another with their career and their identity "before children". And even on the toughest days at work, it is important to remember why it feels good to be working- whether it's the income, career satisfaction, that we are helping others, benefits or even just the social aspect. If we remember and find a way each day to feel good about working, our kids will only benefit from our positive outlook and happy balanced disposition. Check out the smiling mama's review! She is also giving away her autographed copy to her readers! Thank you Aimee :)

Fan Mail

2008-11-12T07:55:00.002-05:00

November 12th, 2008
I received a sparkling bit of fan mail last night. This one also put tears in my eyes!! Thank you Katherine for confirming that all of my hard work with this book was/is worth it!!!
This is what this Full Time Working Mommy wrote:

"Hi Kristie, I LOVE your book! And my daughter LOOOOOVVVES it! (Wish I could think of an endorsement that was a little more creative - but, hey you're the writer not me!)

Just to let you know this book has become "one of those" books that my daughter wants to read over and over and over. Now she's memorized most of it (in just about two weeks - I'm not lying, we've read it a lot...) and will read it to me, her father, her kindergarten class when she brought it for show and tell... She loved searching for the cupcakes, hearts and ladybugs too.

As for me, it was so great to read something that positively conveys the many roles a working mother takes on without being preachy. I love reading it to her and I love it that she's started talking about my high heel shoes. I do have closet envy for the mother in the book, however!

The only criticism that my daughter would like to offer is that on the page where it says "shoes for going out to the movies" she thinks it should say "date night." She tells me that every time,
whether I'm reading it or she is "You know mommy, it really should say 'date night' because the mommy and daddy are going on a date." So, maybe in the next edition... haha.

Anyway, now that I've practically written my own book - I have two questions:
1) There are a few people I would like to give this book to for Christmas (like my boss for one!) If I sent you a list would you mind autographing them as well when I order?
2) Would you mind if I sent out an email with a recommendation and a link to your website to some friends here that I think would really enjoy this book?

Hope you're having a good week. As for me, I'm looking forward to reading "Mommy's High Heel Shoes" again tonight!
Katherine

Tech Savvy Mama includes my book in her holiday shopping guide!

2008-11-09T22:53:00.010-05:00

November 9th, 2008- 11:08 pm

Great news! I just wanted to let you all know that Leticia-Tech Savvy Mama who blogs for DC Metro Moms is including my book in her holiday shopping guide!

Here is her review for Mommy's High Heel Shoes:

"This fall I hung up my hat as a SAHM to become a PTWOHM. Unlike so many life events that are depicted in stories, I had trouble finding a suitable book that I could use to begin a discussion with my children about me going back to work. The brand new book, Mommy's High Heel Shoes is a delightful story that discusses why parents work while celebrating working moms, family bonds, and lots and lots of shoes! The modern tale has charming illustrations that my children love to look at as they search for the ladybug, heart, and cupcake hidden on each page."

Thank you Leticia! I'm so thrilled you loved my book!

Blog Talk Radio

2008-11-09T01:29:00.004-05:00

November 9th, 2008

So here I am at 1:30 in the morning with my sleeping daughter digging her feet into my side. I was clicking all around the internet and somehow came across and interesting site (link below) It looks like I blog in the same circle as this Mommy, Beth Feldman. Since I was just on the 98.1 Philadelphia Public Agenda program to talk about my book, talk radio is particularly interesting to me at the moment! Check this out....

So many mommy networking sites....which ones to choose?

2008-10-30T00:50:00.001-04:00

There are so many Mommy sites that I enjoy visiting. How do we decide which ones to spend time on? I mean there is only so much time in a day. My curfew lately has been 2:00 a.m. That is crazy! When I get to bed at midnight, I feel like a new woman in the morning....less wrinkled and find myself needing less makeup. Anyway, I have many favorites, but here are two that come to mind. I'll list more at a later date. As my curfew is approaching. First, I enjoy Cafe Mom...very fun and a great place to not only meet other moms, but to join groups with other moms that have the same interests. Connect with other moms at CafeMom. Share photos, stories and so much more. If you sign up...join my working mommy group: Mommy's High Heel Shoes and add me as a friend. Cafe Mom is sort of like facebook for Moms.

The working mommy site that I enjoy is Mommy Tracked which is such a fun site for working moms! I get their newletter too where you'll find fun articles and information that will keep you smiling.
Then, of course, I must give a shout out to the new Philly Moms Blog. I started out subscribing to the NYC Moms Blog, since it was the closest in proximity and because I love that city. When I found out they were launching a Philly site, I was really excited and have since been invited to blog with them. I'm really having fun meeting so many moms through this fun group already! Check it out! You can also find out what moms are chatting about all over the country through their sister sites. I hope you love it like I do!

2008-10-28T06:11:00.003-04:00

10/27/2008

Mommy's High Heel Shoes is now at the Doylestown Bookshop!

Find out HERE where else it is available.

Happy Anniversary Honey!

2008-10-26T00:45:00.001-04:00

10/26/2008 Today is my Anniversary, #6! This is the year of the toast. Happy Anniversary Honey! At least it's not burnt! Anyway, if you haven't seen Jib Jab yet, you need to check it out. While not all of their invitations and cards are my style, some of them are so funny I about pee my pants! Did I just say that? I mean they are funny like Pirates of Penzance.

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

And since my husband just had his 20th High School Reunion last weekend, I thought this one would be fitting. Although, I seemed to have cropped the mouths wrong so I look like I have a mustache!!

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

How to Self Publish a Children's Book

2008-10-25T16:03:00.041-04:00

I have been getting so many questions about how to publish a children's book so I decided to post an article to make it easy for all of you to access.

1) The first thing I recommend is that you do a search for all other books with your title and then search for all books in your subject matter. Search Amazon, Borders, Barnes & Noble, libraries & etc. You don't want to publish book that is already in a saturated subject matter or with the same title as another book. It is important to be different, unique, modern, current, kid appealing, and fresh (unless you are a celebrity or well known author and people will buy your book just because you are you!) If you don't have young kids, hang out in Barnes & Noble, Borders or small independent Children's bookstores to find out what sells.

2)Second, there is one book that you all need to get if you are thinking of self publishing. The book is called: Dan Poynter's Self-Publishing Manual. This book is step by step guide on how to self- publish. It will give you an idea if self-publishing is right for you. (I also have more very helpful books on the slide show below.) This book will also help you figure out the differences between going with a major publisher, vanity publisher, print on demand and truly self publishing.

If you aren't willing to sell your book and put forth a ton of effort and time, you may want to stop reading here. If it is your dream to self publish a children's book, then I would suggest that you keep reading so you can make it happen! Note: if you have a "type-A" personality, self publishing will come easy to you. If you don't, you can still do it- the work involved may be just a bit more challenging.

3) The other important thing to do is to join the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). Membership if fairly in-expensive and well worth it. This group will help you network with other writers and editors online and live/in person.

So the process of self-publishing goes like this...

Research and learn your market: What are parents buying? What do they need? What do kids want?
Hang out with Kids!
Write what you know and/or what you love. Your passion will shine through.
Join a children's writers group (if you are not already in one) The critiques of fellow writers are so very important. Edit your manuscript and have it professionally edited if the other writers in your group aren't particularly gifted in this area.
Read your book to kids! Read it aloud! Read it to parents of your target age group! Read it to teachers and to anybody who will listen and give you honest feedback.
Once you have decided to self-publish- Get a website domain! Try to get your book title and your name (for when you get famous). If your title is too long, pick something catchy and easy to remember. You need to start thinking about how to sell your book now. Your website will brand you. Go to www.GoDaddy.com to do this! Just start typing in possible domain names and find one you like. The help desk there is awesome if you decide to host your site there. Also, you can set up a free blog through google, wordpress or typepad. This blog is a blogger blog through google. It's easy to use and completely free. I point my domain name ($10/year-www.kristiefinnan.com) to this blogger address (www.mommyworkshop.blogger.com) I can also host my domain name here, but just haven't gone through that step yet as I know my blog will have to be down for a day or two.
Set yourself up as a publishing company. Decide whether you would like to become a Sole Proprietor or an LLC (I chose LLC for a few different reasons) I really had no idea what to do and a friend of mine recommended The Company Corporation- thank goodness! They were truly awesome. And since you are self publishing- you need to set yourself as a company so you get the many benefits of being a small business owner. At first, I tried to figure out how to do this on my own and wasted many valuable hours googling. The company corporation will walk you through every step and for under $500- they do everything and are awesome to work with. Here is a link:
If you are not an illustrator yourself, have 3 illustrators do samples for you and give you their estimates to do the job. I paid $50 a piece for each sample.
Choose your illustrator and have him/her begin the sketches. Make sure when choosing your artist, that he/she is somebody you think you can work well with. This is an important relationship! There needs to be great communication.
Show your illustrator examples of styles of art in other books that you like before she gets started. And if you have any ideas of what the pictures should look like in your head- include illustration notes. Also, it is helpful if you have your manuscript broken out into pages. Your artist may be able to do this for you or you can work on it together as well.
The most important part of your book is the COVER! Have your artist work on this first. First the artist will do some sketches. Then make any changes and any more changes until you love it. Put on your best pair of art director shoes. Once you love it, work with the artist to pick out eye catching colors and fonts for the title. Your book needs to pop out on a shelf and talk to buyers. This is the most important part of the book! Did I mention that?
Next you will start getting your sketches for your interior pages. As you receive the art, make notes on any of the pages that you would like altered. Once all of the sketches are way you like them, it's time to move on to the painting. Let your artist know if there are any particular colors you are fond of. Show her other books that you like as examples.
While your artist is painting or digitally coloring the artGet your ISBN #, bar-code, register with the library of congress (step by step instructions in Dan Poynter's book for this tedious task) Also, hire a website designer or you can go to several different hosting sites where you can set up a website with your registered domain name with a template yourself. If your budget is an issue, try www.freewebs.com.
Decide on whether you want a hardback or paperback book and on the size.
Research printers in the US and Oversees. Submit specifics (paper weight, size, binding) for quotes and ask free sample books. By doing this, you can touch and feel the paper and tug on the pages to see how well they are bound. You will be surprised in the difference in quality with different printers. I got one set of samples that wreaked of Moth Balls. I ruled them out right away for fear of receiving 3000 books that would stink up my whole house!
Hire a book designer. Ask around so you can get a few different quotes. The designer scans the original artwork into the computer, lays the artwork out in a design program, adds your words to the pages. The specifications are given to the designer from your printer. The designer will be in communication with the printer. Then the files are uploaded to the printer or sent on a CD.
Once the book is all together in a computer program like Adobe InDesign, it's time to print out the .pdf files and mark them up. If the text placement doesn't look right, have your designer move it. If the colors are off from the original art, have them adjusted.
Next, you will receive color proofs of your book from your printer. This usually happens a few weeks after the final files are approved by the printer. You will get to mark them up and make notes of things that need to be changed. Pay special attention to the colors. Make sure they are like your original art or that your are okay with the differences.

(More important steps to come, but this should get you started- stay tuned!)

Helpful Books that I highly suggest!

Amazon.com Widgets

Some helpful websites:

www.parapublishing.com

www.scbwi.org

www.pma-online.org

www.publishingbasics.com

www.wbjbradio.com

www.copyright.gov

www.bowkerlink.com

Quick and Easy tips for a Fast and Healthy Dinner.

2008-10-14T22:13:00.008-04:00

Combining my degree in Nutrition and previous career as a Registered Dietitian with my busy mommy life, here is an article I posted on grumpymoms.com a while ago. As I struggled with what to make for my kids tonight, I thought it would be a great post!

"When your a working mom or a mom on the go we can all use some quick cooking tips!

Like most mommies, our days may start at 2:00 am. We are either up nursing a baby, getting a child a glass of water or being kicked in the side by a 3 year old who somehow snuck into our bed in the middle of the night. The alarm goes off at 6:00 am so you can get your shower and get dressed for work. We then rally the troops…feed them breakfast, get them dressed, get their backpacks packed, etc. Then, off we go to work or into our home offices. The last thing on your mind is what to feed your kids for dinner. So here are a few tips and ideas on how to make your dinners quick and healthy.

Annie’s organic bunny pasta just takes 12 minutes to make and feeds two kids! They also make organic pasta in quick and easy single serve packets- 3 minutes in the microwave and it’s done!

Green giant frozen vegetables take 3 minutes in the microwave, are low fat and loaded with vitamins. Broccoli with cheese sauce is our favorite (regular cheese- not “zesty” – check the package) and also “Healthy Weight”…soy beans, pea pods, carrots…

Barilla makes a barilla plus pasta that has more protein and nutrients. This is especially great for those kids who won’t eat meat.

Here is an excellent site for some quick recipes for your family and picky eaters:www.familyfun.go.com

Carnation Instant Breakfast is loaded with vitamins and minerals for kids. The vanilla flavor can be incorporated into a smoothie with bananas and frozen strawberries for an even more nutritious shake. This is great for dessert for that picky eater. Let your kids add the strawberries and bananas to the blender. Kids who help prepare their food, are more likely to eat/drink it. This works also for a quick and easy breakfast.

Healthy takeout once a week is a great option! Don’t feel bad about it especially if you choose healthy options: Chinese- steamed vegetable with chicken- sauce on the side like garlic or sweet & sour.

Pizza night- tomatoes/Cheese and another vegetable on top (if your kids will have it). Carrot sticks/celery/snow peas on the side with the option to dip in a low fat ranch dressing is a great way to up your vegetable servings.

Orange Yogurt: My daughters favorite…Add pureed baby carrots to vanilla or banana yogurt and let them put a few ice-cream sprinkles on top!

Rotisserie chicken picked up from your local grocery store is a great option and healthier than chicken Nuggets or frozen chicken strips.

Make play dates for dinner with other working moms you know through work or your daycare program. You’ll enjoy the company and can get some great ideas from seeing/talking to other families about what their kids eat! Bring PJs so they can sleep in the car on the way home if the night rolls into bedtime.

If you are a planner, Crock pots can be started in the morning so dinner is ready for you and the kids when you get home. One of my favorite cookbooks is: How to Make Love and Dinner at the Same Time (although that has never quite happened at my house….sorry honey).

For adult conversation with your spouse during dinner, occasionally try feeding the kids first and then give them an activity or game to do while the two of you eat. Maybe even allow a ½ hour of tv while your at the dinner table uninterrupted by, “Mommy can I have?” or “Mommy, can you get me…”

Remember, research says that it takes a child 19 times to adopt a new food! All you can do is offer healthy options and let them adopt the foods at their own pace."

Kristie Finnan

Working Mother & Author of Mommy's High Heel Shoes

Mommy's High Heel Shoes are PINK

2008-10-09T23:23:00.010-04:00

Hi everyone! Mommy's High Heel Shoes is now available to purchase!

I am excited to announce that for each book sold with the coupon code: PINK through our online store we are donating $1 to breast cancer research.

Since it is breast cancer awareness month and so many moms, women & families are greatly effected by this disease- we thought we would pair the launch of Mommy's High Heel Shoes with donating to this great cause.

So think PINK, tell a friend and help us contribute to finding a cure for breast cancer. We will also continue to donate .50 from each book purchased through our website to working mom entrepreneurs through kiva.org.

real birthday

2008-09-25T08:00:00.000-04:00

Happy "real" Birthday Cakes! Mommy loves you. I'll be home tomorrow night. You can sleep in my bed so when I get home late- we can snuggle! Give your brother a kiss for me!

kisses & hugs!

Mommy

Website Makeover

2008-09-23T08:00:00.002-04:00

So my website re-launched last Thursday evening. I LOVE it! (Thank you Paula for doing such a fabulous job on my new site). We are also taking pre-orders on books through the site- they will ship the second week of October!

Check it out:

www.mommyshoes.com

www.mommyshighheelshoes.com

Fake Birthday

2008-09-21T01:00:00.004-04:00

So today was my daughter's "fake" birthday. What do you do when your daughter's birthday is the week of your business trip? Her "real" birthday is the 25th. Luckily this year she can't read a calendar so we pulled it off fabulous. On Friday, her teachers happily celebrated her day early for me so I could bring in the snack and I even read my new book (Mommy's High Heel Shoes) to her class which was adorable. I picked her up from school and we had a special mommy/daughter shopping trip. We ran to the grocery store to get last minute things for her birthday party, picked out tinkerbelle plates and went to buy her soccer cleats. She wore her birthday tiara the whole time smiling from ear to ear as strangers wished her a happy birthday.

So here is my little girl just a day old- almost 4 years ago. How does the time fly by so quickly? She is still my snuggly buddy and sweet girl, but everyday she is getting so grown up. Sometimes I get all teared up looking at these pictures. I've also recently gone through some of the baby clothes and have given some to friends. For some reason, I can't give them all away.

So I feel good about making her birthday a special one, even though we did it a few days early. I think her real birthday is going to be harder for me. Maybe I'll put my calendar away this week.....

Honest Tea....better than a fortune cookie!

2008-09-13T23:35:00.004-04:00

So once a week our family goes out to our favorite Pizza Place. And once a week I look forward to getting my inspiration from a bottle of Honest Tea. Honest tea is more fun and inspirational than a fortune cookie, honest!! You see, on every lid there are words of wisdom. Tonight my lid read, "Vision without action is a daydream; action without vision is a nightmare." - Japanese Proverb.

Wow!

leaps of faith

2008-09-10T01:18:00.004-04:00

I am up way too late again, but thought I would quick post a wonderful quote a friend sent me.

Now while this quote doesn't apply to everything in my life (like my marriage or riding a bike)

It's just wonderful to take leaps of faith and risks in our lives to keep them fun and exciting!

"I need to tell you that I would much rather fail at something new than succeed at something old"- Ben Cohen

Making your child feel special

2008-09-03T20:38:00.003-04:00

So I have been working my full time sales job all day and prepping for the launch of my new book all night. Sometimes, I find it very hard to slow down and relax. I really try hard to ignore all work from the time I get home until the time the kids go to sleep so I can give undivided attention to the kids, but it doesn't always happen. This article on babycenter came across my e-mail the other day. It reminded me of how important it is to make my kids feel special in this busy world we all live in!!!

Article below!

http://www.babycenter.com/0_simple-ways-to-make-your-child-feel-special_3657925.bc?page=1&articleId=3657925

Book Status

2008-08-26T21:42:00.002-04:00

The books are on their way!!! I'll have 200 advance copies next week :)

It's Divalicious!

2008-08-24T03:11:00.013-04:00

So I am thrilled that my blog has a new look!! Thank you to the amazing job of Candy at Divalicious Designs. If the name of her business doesn't draw you in, take a look at her awesome website http://divalicous-designs.blogspot.com and extremely unique, modern & fun templates. I e-mailed Candy last night about updating my blog and she had it up by this afternoon. She is speedy, professional and a gorgeous work at home Mom of two little girls. If you think you can't afford a professional looking website for your blog, you are wrong! Contact Ms. Divalicious for a new update & blog makeover!

Now, I will say- I edited my blog Title artwork a smidge tonight. (I hope you don't mind Candy). There was cute kitty cat sitting on the top of the sofa, which I loved, but my husband said it was bad luck because we don't have a cat. Being superstitious as I am, I erased the poor cute kitty in paint and added artwork from my illustrator, Pat Achilles, of my doggy George (a character in the book as well). George is in heaven so I thought having him on my title banner may be lucky!

I hope you all like my new blog!!

Kristie

A New online Shop for Working Mother essentials

2008-07-16T03:28:00.001-04:00

Here is a new online shop for working mother essentials. This online shop offers everything from breast pumps, baby bjorns, diaper bags, books & gifts for those important people like teachers or nannies who make such huge differences in our lives. More products coming soon...
Here is the link: http://www.mommyworkshop.com/mwsamazonstore.htm

Mommy Workshop helping Moms on Kiva.org

2008-07-15T23:30:00.001-04:00

We are thrilled that Mommy Workshop will be donating .40 cents from every Mommy's High Heel Shoes book purchased through their online store to Kiva.org. On Mommy Workshop's charity-helping moms link, they will feature different entrepreneurial working mothers around the globe who are in need of small business loans. Click the link below to find out how you can make a difference! Find out who you can help!

http://www.mommyworkshop.com/charityhelpingmoms.htm

Mommy's High Heel Shoes will be available for purchase Aug/Sept 2008.

We LOVE Pinkalicious the musical!!! A Hot PInk Review!

2008-07-09T22:25:00.002-04:00

So tonight we took Katie and Cole to see Pinkalicious the musical in Doylestown, PA with some friends. Let me start by saying that Pinkalicious is one of our favorite children's books and if you can't tell by the color of my blog site, I have a bit of pinkititis myself! And since my daughter's nickname is "Cakes" because of her own love of cupcakes, of course we had to go! First, I feel lucky that we were able to go to this show completely free. Thank you to all that sponsored the show. Apparently the show is touring in Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, Texas, Iowa, and Illinois. So if you are lucky enough to live close enough to any of it's stops..Go Go Go! It really is a show that I would have bought tickets for and would highly recommend to others. The stage was bright and beautiful. If I worked at Pottery Barn, it would be my inspiration for my next line of girls bedding! The songs were fun and catchy for kids, the actors were extremely talented and had a great time getting the kids involved! My two year old son even sat through the show which ran about an hour or so! I give the show a HOT PINK REVIEW!

Warning:
My girlfriend just sent me an e-mail with the subject "Pink Problem" It read as follows:
"I have to tell you my poor girl was a bit traumatized in the car. Mostly our fault of course! She kept looking in the mirror and then asking her brothers if she was pink. After some investigation and interrogation, we figured out that she thought that the “pink cupcakes” were going to turn her pink. Too bad I’m not as evil as I appear, I could have had her eating green food for days!"

The show will also be in New York City and opens Saturday August 2nd- September 21st. Check out the website for more details on tours and shows: http://www.cupcakesforall.com/themusical.htm

ps. Thanks to Wegman's (AKA-by my kids "the train store") for giving out free pink cupcakes after the show!!

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom on Youtube

2008-07-06T15:23:00.001-04:00

If you have little ones, you'll love this! Also, an awesome bit of entertainment from your iphone, blackberry or wireless device on the run.

Let me know if you all like this as much as my family does!!

Summer weekend beach trips...fun or foe?

2008-07-02T23:01:00.001-04:00

When you think of the beach do you think of a cool ocean breeze, that yummy coconut smell of sunscreen, reading magazines & sand between your toes? I have been having trouble with this lately. Not that I don't love the beach, because I do and always have. If you ask my husband- he wouldn't know that. When I think of the beach lately, I think of STRESS- not stress relief.

I come home after a long work week to pack up the kids (3 1/2 & 2), dog, clothes, diapers, toys, food, loveys, bathing suits...then my clothes and stuff. My husband who is an amazing dad helps load the car, but I do all of the planning and packing. Then there are the thoughts of leaving at the right time to beat any traffic we may hit. Then unpacking our stuff...kids...dog & etc. into my husband's sister's beach house. Thank you sis for always being a wonderful hostess and even handing me a much needed marguerita upon arrival!! Then, I hope my kids will eat anything for dinner or all weekend besides bowls of chips and juice boxes. Then there is the sunscreen process the next morning before we hit the beach & the lugging of everything to the beach and making sure we haven't fogotten any of our necessary beach items. My magazine...always in the bag, but somehow never gets read. Then there is the umbrella set up and the monitoring of kids running on our towels and those towels of beach goers around us. Now there are those moments once we are there that I really do have fun playing with my kids in the sand or just even sitting and watching them be silly or in wonder of everything around them. And there are times that I can smell the coconut sunscreen and pull out my magazine. Usually, once I am all set up with my magazine, I hear "Mommy, I've got to go potty". So up through the hot sand I lug my daughter piggy back with a full bladder to the public restroom, "yuck- don't touch anything!"

After a few hours of sun and tired kids, we head back to the car to ride back to the house to get two sleepy sandy kids out of the car into the shower. Then again...fingers crossed they eat dinner in a strange place with unfamiliar foods and go to sleep soundly in an unfamiliar bed. Then on Sunday to find and pack all of the trail of things we have left to head home where I can un-pack the tired kids, worn out dog, dirty toys, sandy everything, wet bathing suits, damp clothes & did I remember my??? Where is my??? What do I have scheduled tomorrow? Uh oh...

But is all of this work worth it for a few stolen moments of relaxation on the actual beach or with family at the beach house? I think it is and couldn't imagine not giving my kids these weekends with their Aunties, Uncles and cousins, but just not every weekend of the summer. It physically drains me! Then off I have to go to work Monday in a sandy car missing my kids who I feel I didn't even get to snuggle or relax with all weekend. Is it selfish to feel this way? Is is selfish to want just stay home and relax...putter around in my garden with my kids watering behind me with there cute little cans? I just want to make plans with friends and relax at home on most weekends. Don't get me wrong- I love going to the beach and love our family- just like I love Christmas. But sometimes too much beach is like too much Christmas. I think I would much rather take a week's vacation at the beach and spend most of my weekends home. Does anyone else feel this way?

Something to make everyone smile!

2008-06-25T00:35:00.001-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/user/fleembrittle

Way too much fun!

Mommy Blogging Cartoon!

2008-06-02T20:52:00.000-04:00

http://www.achillesportfolio.com/index.htm

I just love Pat's latest cartoon!

So who am I?

2008-05-25T16:28:00.000-04:00

I am a full time working mother of two children (Katie: 3 1/2 and Cole is almost 2), the daughter of a Mom who worked when I was a child, and lucky to be friends with many other working mommies. I graduated Penn State with my BS in Nutrition and got my RD (registered dietitian) cerification up in Boston, MA. However, I did switch careers and have been a sales professional for 12 years and wear high heel shoes to work everyday! I am lucky to work for a company on the top 10 list in Fortune magazine for "Best Places to Work" and a company that was voted in the top 20 for best companies for working mothers by Working Mother magazine. I will say that I am very grateful and blessed to work for a company that truly encourages work/life balance. In addition, I have written a children's book called Mommy's High Heel Shoes. It is a book that workng mothers will love to share with their children and will be available in September 2008. I am also an active member of the SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) and the Womens Business Forum (Doylestown, PA) where I am thrilled to make so many connections with smart, talented and fabulous women! Most importantly, my children are my inspiration and have made my books and MOMMYWORKShop.com my passion! Last, but not least, I am married to an extremely caring husband and amazing father. Thank you to Chris for putting up with my late hours at my computer and being so supportive! I am also thrilled to be a columnist for www.grumpymoms.com My goal is to give quick/easy everyday tips for the busy working mommy. I will try to have relevant "today" topics and hopefully my advice will help us feel less grumpy! Post a comment,send me a message, tell me what you want and need information about and I'll do my best to find it! Please visit MOMMYWORKShop.com for more working mommy information!

Cell phone in the lunch box!

2008-05-24T01:39:00.000-04:00

So the other morning, I called my girlfriend Yolanda. Yolanda is really an amazing friend! She is the kind of friend that always has something wonderful to say to you when you call like, "I was just thinking about you!". You can hear the smile in her voice. She is the kind of friend that sends her friends chocolate cakes on mothers day-just because. She is also a co-worker and a busy working mom with two young kids. So back to my call...Well, no answer- all morning. Very unlike Yolanda not to pick up. So she finally calls me back laughing hysterical telling me that she lost her phone and was searching everywhere all morning. Of course, being a working mommy in sales you are pretty much just lost without your phone! It's your lifeline. She then proceeds to tell me that she gets a call from her son's school. No problem with her son, but his lunch box was ringing! Apparently, her son was playing with her phone that morning and it got packed in his lunch box!

2008-05-24T01:30:00.000-04:00

This song just makes me happy...thought I would share!

About Me

2008-05-23T22:33:00.016-04:00

3/1/2010

Hello! About me, let's see....

I grew up and now live back home in beautiful Bucks County. I openly admit, I am a coffee addicted too busy Mommy with a "Type-A personality." I graduated from Penn State with my degree in Nutrition and went to graduate school in Boston where I became a Registered Dietitian.

Currently, I work as a Clinical Specialist in BioOncology and have been working in sales for the pharmaceutical/Biotech world for the past 14 years. Most importantly, I LOVE being a Mommy and have three kids: 5 year old daughter, almost 4 year old son and 7 month old baby girl. My kids are my biggest blessing in life.

When I'm not working, I enjoy having fun with my husband, kids & silly English Setter, being outdoors, gardening, taking pictures, baking, social networking, meeting new people and trying new things. My creative outlet is blogging and writing children’s books. Writing really makes me smile. My first children’s picture book: Mommy’s High Heel Shoes was published in October 2008. Mommy's High Heel Shoes is available on my website, these stores and on Amazon.

In addition, I am...

a contributing writer for the Philly Moms Blog (which has been a great experience getting to know so many other mommies all over the country.)

an active member of the SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators)

on the board of the Women's Business Forum (Bucks County, PA) an have been appointed their social media point person (AKA twitter girl) @WBFBucks.

the founder of Real Mommy Reviews

an expert at promoting and selling products I am passionate about.

sleep deprived!

I hope you follow my blog and daily adventures on Twitter @MommyshhShoes. I can't wait to get to know you!

Favorites

2008-05-23T22:33:00.004-04:00

Where Real Mommies Review Really Cool Stuff

Mommy Tracked:

Mommy's High Heel Shoes is on the

See Mom Works Book List and a book review!

My Blog Designer:

Celebrate being a working mom!

2008-05-22T00:27:00.000-04:00

We "work" for many reasons: we love our jobs, need the income, need the benefits, enjoy making a difference in the world, etc. No matter what the reason, let's try to feel good about life. Let's Feel good about working! Instead of feeling guilty or sad for not being with our children all day, let's focus on the great times we have with them! Instead of putting our focus on what we don't get to do with our kids or get done in a day, let's celebrate how much we accomplish and how successful we are! Let's All Celebrate Being Mommy! Let's celebrate being a working Mommy!
Tell us about you! How many shoes do you wear?

www.mommyshighheelshoes.com

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