One Year Later. The Journey, the Path the Love.

Almost a year ago I sat down with my brother in law, Jason, who has all the computer programming experience in the world, and told him I was interested in starting a blog.  This blog would be for our community that focused on inspiring women, sharing stories, passions, entrepreneurship adventures, photos, and tid bits of humor all wrapped up in a perfect little package of cyber chatter.

I had been sitting on this idea for quite awhile, and with the school year getting ready to start up, I would have more free time on my hands to devote to my writing..  In a nut shell, The timing just felt right.

As we began, our original idea was to partner up with my twin sister Kathryn,who was also a Mom. However Kathryn was your average "working mom."  Monday through Friday, 8:00-5:00 plus an hour commute.   It seemed to fit.  I would handle all the funny stuff, the budding Mommy entrepreneur stuff and local events and her content would but solely fixed on the ones who had to leave little ones behind and go into an office. Kathryn is and always has been very, very smart. She has her Masters Degree in Health Care Administration, has a good head for business, can debate just about any subject with a sharp tongue and quick wit and never ever backs down from something she strongly believes in.  Me....well okay I am smart too, but a different smart. I may not excel in a fierce boardroom meeting but boy can I throw a pizza party for a bunch of Kindergartners. And I can organize crayola markers from the washable kind to the non washable kind. I can even (and I hate to brag) but I can find a Scooby Doo marathon on TV no matter what time of day. Our different situations mixed in with our completely different personalities would make for great reading, great discussion starters and an even keel of information that would appeal to all.
Our first conversation went something like this...

Me - "We need a name...Something cathy..."
"Her - "Uh huh.."
Me - "Something that ties us together as sisters, and Moms."
Her - "Uh huh."
Me - "What about Sister Chat?"
Her - "Uh Huh.."(typing in background...)
Me - "Or Twin Chatter?"
Her - "Uh, huh... Hold!"
*insert classic music here...*

A few more conversations like that occurred but the underlying feel was that this was more my idea than hers and as much as I wanted to partner up with her and have her input, this wasn't as interesting to her.  Not in a bad way, nah she is one of my biggest fans, but it just came down to what gave me the idea in the first place - Our differences.  Not just within our own minds but also our situations.

So with her blessing, I continued to borrow her hubby with the actual launch.  We began in Wordpress.  This was clearly not my idea  (I had tried Wordpress once before and it confused the crap out of me).  But he insisted it was the way to go. Using Wordpress would increase our traffic, we would have a "polished and professional" look (and I had to admit, looking at other wordpress blogs I had been impressed).  So we "pressed" on.  Jason did all the HTML stuff and I provided the content.  He also hooked me in with a few "extras" (which I would later learn are called Plugins) and before I knew, we had take off.  I was so excited, my idea was finally turning into something real.  I was finally entering the world of Professional blogger, and if I played my cards right, I would be successful.  I might even make a little money.  More importantly maybe this blogging thing would jump start me into once again tackling that novel...  I would after all be writing every day.  How easy it would be to blog for an hour, then write a chapter...

Oh how I now laugh now at my naivety...

Yet, Back to the launch.  Everything was there just like Jason had promised.  We had local and national news, a daily weather report, we even had a traffic report and a daily cartoon.  My article that I wrote for the unveiling, a story about Evan starting Kindergarten, well that was up in the far right hand corner...  Evan's picture as Small as my thumbnail.
Bottom, line hardly any of it, and I mean hardly, had anything to do with my ideas on Motherhood.
For a few weeks I went with it.  I buried my head in Wordpress for Dummies books, website tutorials and endless texts and e-mails to Jason who I think after awhile began screening my calls (not that I blamed him).   I did get the hang of a few things,  I still enjoyed writing my own articles that I figured out how to make bigger on the front page.  I even hosted my very first contest, and the winner received Carolina Panther Ticket's   I was slowly making headway. 

However, underneath it all, I was actual quiet miserable, I didn't like sharing my blog with Jason, his intent for me to be more "news" and "current events" oriented wasn't jiving with my writing stories about inspiring Mom's.   We began to butt heads and damn it I had a lot to offer with this blog.   I mean after all, Chatter is effortless.  It just evolves and then takes on a life of it's own.  There is no structure, no boundaries it can stop as easily is it can begin.  And without we can't exist.   I realized I didn't need  tricks or fancy plugins.  I just needed my ideas, my vision and a much simpler application on how to present it all. 

So I changed gears and thanked Jason for his time, his commitment and told him I was running back to Blogger.  Blogger was my friend, Blogger knew me.  Blogger was where I started my original blog Momsie.  I belonged to blogger.  I was coming home.

In February I hired a designer and a few weeks later, I had my new look, my new vibe.  I was elegant yet simple.  I was smart sassy and funny.  I was thrilled.  More magic happened after that.  I had stories, I had content.  I was meeting new people, taking part in new experiences. I was offering more giveaways, I even went antique shopping for crying out loud and learned enough to write about it.  Gift baskets, fashion, design, baked goods, and more...  I was as ever in awe of how many talented women we have in out little community.  I was honored and lucky to be a part of something, I hoped was just as special to everyone I wrote about, as it was to me. 

Then, something, unexpectedly happened. A new path, a new vision slowly appeared in front of me.  A path I didn't see coming but at the same time wasn't surprised either.  Path's are funny that way.  How they appear out of no where yet show signs of familiarity.  Paths that lead to a new place, a glimpse into a new journey.  And the question became.  Do I follow this new path, or do I stick with the one I am on?  And If I took the new path would I be able to look back?  Would Chatter still be okay, would I be giving up what took so long to get started?  What about all the blood sweat and tears I had given over this past year? I didn't want to strand anyone, or leave anyone hanging.  One of my biggest pet peeves as a blogger is to gain a bunch of readers only to let them down with lack of content, lack of connection.  I slowly began to fear that could happen,  I was already writing less  and as if  life wasn't confusing enough, summer break kicked in and my time belonged to the kids, instead of the blog.

Yet through all of  this, the path stood firm.  It was clear as day actually.  So I took one step onto this path that for all practical purposes Lakeside Chatter created for me.    Now as I look back, I am most certain this was the intent and purpose of my experience over the past year.   I am in the Chatters hands forever.  I owe this path gratitude to where it has led me.  The incredible people I have met and the stories I have been able to write.  To read your comments and see how much the blog has changed over the past year has just warmed my heart beyond words.  

So here I am, a year later.  School soon starting again.  Chatter a year older and even though changes lay ahead, I am more excited than ever.  In fact it is that very reason that I wanted to share with you today.  That I, Ms Chatter box herself, am further along in my journey of discovering my own passion, my own inspirations.  The very thing the Chatter stands for happened to me when I least expected.
This isn't a "goodbye" by any strecth of the mens, it is just a "Stay Tuned." Watch me head down this new path and please come along with me.  There is no better feeling in the world than finally understanding all the paths in your life will lead you somewhere quite extraodinary. 
Stay true, stay real and more than anything stay Inspired!!!

With Much Love, Respect and Joy,
Mary

For Every Season Consignment - The Sale, The Family, The Story

Hello my Chatter friends. I have an awesome feature for you all this week. I will start with a question - Who reading this loves a good sale? Good!
Next Question - Who reading this loves fantastic deals, great items and a bunch of smiling faces all at the same time??
Very good!
Last question - Who gets crazy giddy excited when they start to get flyers from a group called “For Every Season.” I mean jump up and down run to their calendars mark the days in permanent marker and gets a sitter for the kids just so you can go?If you are like me then you are not only raising your hand but you are also jumping up and down squealing and clapping (okay maybe that is just me) but I have to admit I feel like a school girl who just got asked to the prom when this glorious sale comes around. That famous purple postcard comes in the mail with that special saying “For Every Season Fall/Winter Consignment Sale” (or Springs/Summer) and I am in heaven.

I became a fan of “For EverySeason” about 4 years ago when a fellow Mommy friend of mine sent out an e-mail about the sale and that this was where she got all of her kid’s toys and outfits. At the time I had never heard of them before. I loved consignment shopping for the kids but being located in Lake Wylie, I usually had to travel to Pineville to Once Upon a Child. I had been pretty disappointed the last few times I went so I defiantly want to try this sale out since a) they were much closer to my side of town and b) my friend raved about it and she did indeed have some really cool things for her crew of little ones.
The sale I went to was their Holiday sale. As you will read in my interview, they do three sales a year and a holiday is one of them. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I was blown away when I walked in. Everything was labeled, tagged and organized and had a flow to the room. It was busy but not overly crowded. There were plenty of helpers and I not only found stuff for the boys, but also a rug for my foyer, a lamp for my guest room and a really cool purse. I was thrilled.
The next sale I went too was their spring/summer and I brought my Mom along. We both left with bags full of stuff and I couldn’t wait for the fall/winter sale roll around. I think it is safe to say that I have gone to just about every sale since then and seriously plan my schedule around the time of year when they are in full swing. My boys are 5 & 6 now but I still go and find great deals on clothes, shoes and books, especially since my oldest loves to read and I am always looking for books or puzzles that he hasn’t read in school or hasn’t seen yet. I still swing by the toy aisle and pick up a few things. Last year success was a Buzz Light-year dressed in the USA colors and was a “Special Edition” in the store a few months prior. Retail value was $49.99. I paid $8.00 and it was still in great condition. Ryan still plays with him today.

I will always love that Buzz guy and For Every Season for having a sale that helps Mom’s and families out with offering things we all need and use but at fantastic deals and great conditions.
I contacted Lisa last year just after their fall sale and hope they would be willing to be a feature on Lakeside Chatter. She was happy to do so and I am honored and so excited to share with you all. One of my favorite things about blogging is when I get to know people who I have always admired from afar and especially when I get to hear their amazing stories. Read more below and get to know this fantastic family owned operation and if you haven’t done so yet get those permanent markers ready for your calendars.

1) How long have you known each other, and how did you all meet?
We are sisters (Lisa is older than Lori by only 14 months.) Also, our parents are instrumental part of our sale in both their work they do for us as well as the encouragement and support that they give us. We share the same core values, but have very different gifts and talents which we have found to be an asset at being in business together. Lori is the retail manager and Lisa is the business manager of For Every Season—it works!

2) How did you all come up with the idea of For Every Season? Where did the name come from? We knew from the very beginning that For Every Season Consignment was going to be more than just a business. Both of us are very mission-minded and needed to make a difference rather than just make a profit. For Every Season is actually part of an Ecclesiastical passage from the Bible: “For Every Season, there is a purpose under heaven.” We hoped that our business could not only be a way for families to clothe their children and equip their homes “for every season,” but that our business would be a blessing to all in each season.

3) How long has For every Season been in Charlotte/Fort Mill?
Our first sale was the Fall & Winter Sale in August 2002 at the Leroy Springs Recreational Complex in Fort Mill. This year’s Fall & Winter Sale (September 1-11) will be held at The Pointe (2266 Deerfield Drive in Fort Mill—I-77, Exit 88--next to Knights Baseball Stadium in the former Bobcats Training Center.

4) How many workers/volunteers are involved?
The success of our Sale would not be possible without our wonderful helpers and consignors! We have over 300 3-hour helper shifts for each sale. Our helpers come to “work” at our sale with all of their enthusiasm, talents, and ideas. At each sale, we have helpers who make great suggestions because they are thinking outside the box. We also really enjoy the friendship connections that our helpers have made with us and each other. We have a group of ladies who met at For Every Season as helpers years ago and now socialize outside of our Sale! That makes us feel great!

5) How many sales per year?

We host three sales per year: Spring & Summer Sale, Fall & Winter Sale, and Home & Holiday Sale. At all three sales, we feature children’s clothing & shoes, baby equipment, maternity items, and toys. At the Home & Holiday Sale, we expand to also include furniture and home décor, holiday decorations, electronics, appliances. At one Home & Holiday Sale, we even sold a kitchen sink! With the Home & Holiday Sale, no one ever out-grows our Sale! We love that because we enjoy seeing our consignors, helpers, and shoppers at each sale!

6) Most interesting thing you have learned since starting this adventure?
That the old saying “Never mix family with business” is not necessarily true--not saying that we haven’t had disagreements. However, when the mission of the business (to make a positive difference in the lives of families) is shared by all family members in the business (sisters, parents, husbands, and kids,) a family business can be successful. We have had to learn that each of us brings different gifts and talents to the business and we have learned to appreciate those differences. At the launch of our business, we kept asking ourselves, “Why are we doing this?” when we would get tired or frustrated. We sarcastically responded, “It’s for the children.” After the very first sale, we heard back from families thanking us for what For Every Season provided to the Fort Mill/Lake Wylie/Rock Hill/Charlotte area and what a difference it makes to families. The “It’s for the children” statement has quite a different meaning for us now.

7) Most rewarding part of owning your own company/business?
The most rewarding part is working diligently all year (it takes 3-4 months to prepare for each Sale) and then seeing the “fruits of our labor” as the actual on-site Sale time begins—from set-up to drop-off to sale days to pick-up. We are always excited to see our “old” friends as they come to consign or help (or both!) and are thrilled to meet new friends as they join our Sale as first-timers. We love the relationships we have made through this business

8) You are teaming up with Coupon Mama this year, how did that come about?
The savviest “Business Moms” are the ones that know that saving money is the same as making money. Coupon Mama teaches people how to save money in many various ways—from clipping coupons to not over-buying to not blindly follow the Joneses. For Every Season Consignment offers families an opportunity to make money through consignment and then save money buying at up to 75% off retail prices. Our missions interlace perfectly, so it was just natural that we would partner together. Our Facebook Manager, Michelle Taulbee, recognized this opportunity and put us in touch with Coupon Mama. We met with her recently—she is so dynamic and enthusiastic—check out the picture of us at the meeting on our Facebook page. We are thrilled with the prospects of what For Every Season and Coupon Mama can do working together for families in our community!

Any other fun tid bits you would like to share about your Experience since starting For Every Season?
Once we had a shopper who was unfamiliar with our Sale ask if we were a non-profit charity. Our Dad quickly replied, “Well, we are a ‘not-for-much-profit’ business!” Sad, but true—as we do not measure the success of For Every Season by our bottom line, but by the enjoyment and blessings we receive in For Every Season! Our parents are such an important part of our Sale and have been with us since the beginning. When they first offered their help (free help, of course!,) Lori and I wondered what in the world we could give them to do as token work to keep them busy and out of our way. Now we can’t imagine what we would do without their help! We give them their schedules, but remind them that they work 24/7 AND are on call.
It takes months and months of work just to do a 2-week event! Lori and I always smile when someone says to us, “It must be nice to only have to work a few weeks a year!” Well, it must be, but we wouldn’t know! Ha!

I hope you enjoyed reading about For Every Season as much as I have enjoyed getting to know them and feature them on Lakeside Chatter.  Make sure you check out their website and facebook page below.  More than anything though spread the love.  If you are an avid shopper and fan of For Every Season make sure you pass on their information and Chat Up this wonderful sale that I know personally will be one of the first in line.  Sale begins September 7th. 

Thanks so much Lori and Lisa.  You girls are truly amazing!

For Every Season Website 

For Every Season on Facebook
Coupon Mama Website

Prayers, A Walk and a Rock Star.

I pray a lot.  I always have.  It stared with the book "Are you There God it is Me Margaret"  back when I was 12 and like the main character Margaret, I too prayed for what else -  Boobs!  And okay a boyfriend, and if he was in the mood I also prayed to be as pretty as Lisa what's her name.  You know, there was always a "Lisa or an "Alyssa" or a "Stephanie" or some grogoues name that went with the gorgeous girl you went to school with.
I prayed to be like her.
And as I got older I prayed for my heartbreaks to heal, my parents to let me have a longer curfew and for Jon Bon Jovi to never get married until I was of age and he could chose me.
After college I prayed for a job.  Any job that would allow me to get my own apartment and finally be on my own.
And when I was on my own, I prayed not to screw it up.
And when I did I prayed for forgiveness and another chance.
And then years later, once I became a Mom I prayed about everything...
Please let the baby sleep....Please let my husband grab that night feeding, please tell me I won't be a walking one eyed open zombie for the rest of my life..."
"Please tell me this child asleep on my chest will never get hurt, will never get sick, will always be safe, healthy and always always Happy."
Because Children deserve that.  All children! 
My prayers about children are very specific..."Please help that child." 
Because children don't chose to get sick, they don't chose to have a disease or a missing limb or a bad skin disorder when they can't be allowed out in sunlight.  Kids don't pick this.  It is just life doing what it does best, leaving us with questions with tugs on our hearts and of course prayers. 
I am not extremely religious but I am extreme fan of God and his son Jesus Christ.  I believe in heaven and I believe in the power of faith, of his will and that sometimes we are not in control of what he has planned for us. 
And clearly I believe in the power of prayer. 
And when I see the amazing power this has, I am overwhelmed, I am moved beyond words.  Even if what we pray for isn't exactly how we had hoped it would turn out....  I know eventually whether it is in this life or my afterlife, I will understand why.
So it is then I try to wait and maybe understand a bit differently why kids get sick.  Really sick, or why kid's are taken from us so suddenly.  Because in my book you don't mess with kids.  You just don't.  But my book is different than God's and I trust his over mine any day of the week.
So latley I have had a certian child on my heart.  Okay, a certain family on my heart.  Many of you in this community know the Greenwalt Family.  If not you are about too.....
Meet them here. 
And if this link doesn't work, go over to my blog roll and click on "Life Love & Laundry" 
Or google Mitochrondial Disease.
Either way you will learn their story, their struggles and what they too are praying for - A Cure.
I am honored, to know this family and beyond humbled by their story.  I care very deeply about helping this little girl fight her "sick"  The sick she didn't ask for or deserve, The sick that found her at only 3 weeks of age.
The sick that is still with her today, almost on her 3rd birthday.
So I ask you wonderful readers for two things, first prayers for this family. 
Second, please visit her "Saving Savannah" facebook page and learn how you can help contribute to a walkathon taking place this October. 
The walk is organized by  United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation -Energy for Life." And their team name is "Saving Savannah" which is a perfect name for this little girl.  She not only rocks her own walk, but rocks the hearts of everyone who has met her, who knows her and who loves her.
Meet Savannah, one of the many many faces of kids facing Mitochondrial disease.
One of the faces you can help. 
And I belive she say's it best in the photo.

Until one is found, I will be praying.  Please join me.


With Love,
Mary

 

Wednesday Chatter's "Chat"

Been a week you guys and I am sorry....  I so envy you Bloggers out there who post daily. Seriously how do you do it?  Especially in the summer?!  My mind seems to have melted right along with everything else lately.  However I can always find stuff to chat about so here we go...

First, I must tribute my beloved "first" baby. 

Bruno passed away this past Friday after almost 8 wonderful years as our pet.  We got him when he was only 8 weeks old.  He was the most perfect animal to have in my life.  He was big and sweet and gentle as a baby and loved anyone he met. 

Most of you know Bruno's medical history and our story.  If not and would like to, here is a post I wrote about him back in January where we were told there was nothing more we could do for him except keep him comfortable.  Bruno's Story.

I miss him terribly, but I know he is in my heart, that is about all I can say for now.  You dog owners/lovers know what I mean. 

So on to something so super cheerful and DELICIOUS!!!  Check out what the Cupcake Girl has going on.  I am so excited to see her and "Thoughtful Creations" team up and offer yet another fab giveaway and gift basket.  Click here to read all about the Cupcake Drop.  Too awesome.  Also, know of someone who has a wedding coming up?  Cupcake girl also says's "I Do" to weddings.  Oh "Mi Amore"

Mom Togging!!

I would love to share your July 4th Pictures with my readers.  Have a favorite photo you took over the holiday??  Send it to me at lakesidechatter@gmail.com and I will add to the photo gallery coming up in the next post.  I will get us started....

This is my neighbor's daughter, she just happened to turn away from me while playing with that peace sign necklace.  I couldn't resist the combination of youth, peace and the red white and blue colors.  I love when pictures take on a life of their own.  So send what you got.   Photo's can be of anyone, anything, any time of day.  If it is Patriotic, red white and Blue, Fireworks, even hot dogs then send it on.  Can't wait to see them and share.  Make sure you include your name and any info about the photo you would like to share. 

Speaking of Togging.... Must share my new favorite site.  Paint The Moon.  Okay so if you are a togger and new to Photoshop (or even a pro) at photoshop I highly recommend you check this out.  Annie has 100's of unique textures and actions you can download for Photshop, and Photoshop Elements.  I am in love with this chic and her talent for creativity and design.  She has made me like Photoshop (I have had a long time fear of this application and even now learning it sometimes still feels like Greek to me). But she takes a lot of the time and confusion out of editing and comes up with so many wonderful unique actions.  She even responds to e-mails (people she is FAMOUS) so I was so excited when I e-mailed and said "Hi I am a dork and no NOTHING about photshop" and she got back to me very quickly and said "No you are not a dork, try this and try that and e-mail me if you need any help."  And boom.  Instant fan for life.  Take a peek at her stuff,her prices are very very good. she has freebies you can try out and I think you will love her as much as I do. 

Organizing Tip of the Week.

Rubber Band ID

A guest's wineglass won't end up in the wrong hands when one of these brightly colored name tags identifies it.

Thank you Carolina Neat Freak for this tip.  To see more and learn about how a professional Organizer can help you declutter your life check her out at Carolina Neat freak.

New at SUGAR CREEK GARDEN CENTER:

Xeriscaping!

Xeriscaping is landscaping in a way that reduces or eliminates the need for irrigating.

On Saturday, July 23 at 10AM We will be featuring a class on xeriscaping and how you can make your landscape both beautiful and less dependent on irrigation!

For more Information on this event click here : Sugar Creek Garden Center.

Okay my peeps, that is it for now....  I will have more coming by this weekend.  Hugs to you and please keep the comments coming and share the love on Facebook as well.  I couldn't do any of this without you!!


Much Love,
Mary

My "No Holds Barred" Take on Casey Anthony.

I wasn't planning on it, but something told me to write anyways...

Via Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/pin/56919950/

This feels personal!
Scratch that. This feels utterly disgusting! And maybe I wouldn't be so riled up if we haven't just come off a Holiday weekend celebrating our country' freedom. Because, quite honestly, our American Justice system has let me down, big time. Say what you want about the evidence or lack there of, say what you want about reasonable doubt and yeah the family was dysfunctional and yeah there was no “clear” understanding of how this poor child died... And everyone is going to have an opinion about everything and that is just the way things are....
But don't tell me "Not Guilty."
Because there is no doubt in my mind that she anything- BUT guilty! She was her MOTHER people. The one woman Caylee could trust, depend on and knew would keep her safe. And if she didn't end Caylee's life on purpose if it was an accident of some kind she is still GUILTY. Because she partied and she smiled and she danced and she made out with guys and drank cocktails.  She went shopping and she lied and lied and lied again. And oh yeah the Tattoo the freaking TATTOO "Beautiful Life" it reads.....  "MONSTER" it should read.
She never, ever grieved!
She only cried in court when it was about "her" and not her daughter.
She is mean she is cut throat and she is-
Free... To do what she wants. To have another baby to get away with something so horrific and she will be able to probably write a book about it... Reality TV shows because that is how it rolls.... The more awful you are, the more attention you will get.
It is disgusting!
And what about the child abuse charges?? She is not guilty of that as well? Really?!? Your child is missing for 31 one days and you don't report it? If that is not abuse I don't know what is.
I don't know much about much. But I know that when you become a mother it is no longer about you it is about them. It will forever be about them. I have to confess here….  I actually  have more respect for Cindy Anthony for still calling Casey "Sweetheart" on the jail cell phone during their talk’s right after Casey was arrested.  Because, honestly, that is what mother's do. Cindy's daughter was in jail no one knew what happened yet, Casey kept lying and spinning more webs of pain and Cindy still said "I love you sweetheart." Because to Cindy it was about Casey. Her daughter was in jail and scared and Monster or not, unconditional love is what it is. And that I get. I get that families are screwed up and upside down and no one is perfect and bad things happen.... But your child is your child and will always be "sweetheart" to your mother.
Unless you have no heart, then you are nothing and nothing will eventually catch up with you. Even if 12 men and women handed you nothing but the ability to go free, and therefore nothing has changed. The dust will settle, injustice will forever linger and a three year old little girl will never laugh or sing or swim or dance or even become old enough to and enjoy her own beautiful life.
I don't get it.
And I never will. That is why this is personal. My pack, my people, my fellows Mothers there is one amongst us who broke every rule in the book. Who failed their child and danced anyway.
Land of the free? Clearly!!!! 
This just feels wrong.
And wrong wasn’t supposed to be how Caylee’s life ended. 
She deserved better, she deserved our help... Her justice was due.
I just don't get it.... 
Do you?

Store Score - Crazy 8

I have to share with you my new favorite store for kids clothing.  Some of you may have heard of it, but if not you must check it out and do so NOW.
Crazy 8
It is a little bit "Old Navy", "Life is Good" and "Gap" all wrapped up into one.  I later found out it is affiliated with "Gymboree", but much more reasonable.

What I love about this store.....

First the sales.  They run more sales then I have ever seen and all of the stuff on sale is not just overlooked over picked mis matched outfits.  We are talking sales on great quality, great outfits and best part in season.  In fact the above boys outfit is currently on sale online and at the store.  Combined price is under $25.00 (the T- Shirt alone is only $3.00)  I mean HELLO!?!?!?!  

Second, Quality Quality.  Here is where I insert my "Life is Good" comparison.  I love that brand because it is soft and holds up really really well.  But I can't always afford their stuff.  Crazy 8 reminds me a lot of Life is Good.  I just love the feel of the boys clothes...

Two shirts I got for the boys for our beach week.

Third, They have a T.V in the store.  In the back along with a comfortable bench and room to spread out on the floor, the boys can sit and watch a cartoon while I can browse freely.

Finally, everytime I go in there are new outfits, new sales and honestly the most expensive item in the store is still under $25.00.  Just about every item I have purchased has been $12.00 or under.  Great deal in my book. 

I also learned that after July 5th school uniform outfits will be coming in.  I am sure right along with it will be more sales and more great items to look through.  I am in love and this is definitely my go to store for the kiddo's.

More info...
Outfits boys girls and sized 0-14.
Located - Carolina Place mall, upper level next to Build a Bear
Current Special "Crazy Cash"  Spend $40.00 or more and receive $20.00 in crazy cash towards your next purchase.

via http://pinterest.com/pin/4354867/

So check it out and when you do feel free to share with me your thoughts.  I just love when I find great stores and so happy I can pass this on to you all.
With Love,
Mary

Reality returns, but summer is still here.

Well almost a week now back from a restful and fun vacation and slowly but surely routine surrounds me with its big muscular  arms squeezing vacation vibe out of me, and reality right back in.

But I must admit, I am LOVING summer break!!
Not having to worry about popping up at of bed in a frantic" oh my Lord I am running behind again" fury and getting the boys off to school has been a welcome change from 10 months of just that.  The boys who have been playing great (so far knocking on wood and then some) are also playing hard.  Pools, parks, bikes, basketball, baseball, running around like crazy inside and outside, most notably in the backyard looking for worms and having melt downs if one finds a bigger one than the other.   Of course all of this means they stay up just a tiny bit later and then they SLEEP IN.  I know I know…  I am way too lucky to have a 5 and 6 year old sleep past 8:30 most morning's but I am reveling in the slow down.  My husband pointed this out yesterday morning as I still lingered in bed with a cup of coffee and the Today show on in the background.
“How do you like your summer hours so far?”  (If there was a hint of sarcasm I didn’t hear it but I know all too well there must have been a tiny drip of one…)

“It has been great.”  I say and then felt the need to defend myself  10 months Mister! Ten months of non-stop  schedules, car pools, homework, class projects, school volunteering,  mommy volunteering, sports practices, game times, making lunches, making out checks to the PTO, finding ways to squeeze in doctors appts, dentist appts, eye doctor appt’s and if I am lucky finding time to run laundry the vacuum cleaner work on my blog,  and still get to the bus stop by 3:45 p.m.
I sigh and realize deep down he probably knows the lazy break is deserved and welcome.   And if not, I do.  Because this past week the slowdown has also brought me closer to the boys.  I sit with them more.  That is right, just sitting and we have a new favorite show "The Electric Company" which comes on at 3:30 every day on PBS.  I used to watch this show when I was a kid and they LOVE these kids with their word help and spelling help and a cheesy little story thrown in there as well.  

There is no doubt the boys are growing up on me.  Evan’s legs seem longer his face more defined and dare I say it a speck of more independence every day.  Ryan is not far behind him.  Almost as tall as his brother and while he still loves to cuddle and be close to me, I see his cool cat vibe coming out more and more as well and I know that cool cats aren’t so cool when they are in Mommy’s lap.  So I savor and I sit and I let them sleep late and enjoy every ounce of their crazy wide awake selves.  Because in two months it will all be over, both boys will be in school full time.  My time as a Stay at Home Mom will take a turn in a new direction.   It will be a challenging one as I figure out what how to reorganize my life that has been on hold for the past 6 years.  It scares me a little, excites me a little, and okay fine FREAKS ME OUT a little….

But for now it is Summer Break.  And who am I to argue that for a few months out of a crazy year, it is okay to sleep in sit still and let everything else take care of itself, because in the end hectic schedules or lazy summer days, I have two boys who are growing up and for now (Thank God) still need and want to be with me. 

So speaking of Schedules, I hope you all have had an opportunity to check out Kristin with Carolina Neat Freak and learn about how she can help you get better organized with your life.  She offers a great service and don’t forget if you mention Lakeside Chatter you will receive 10% off your first organization session.

It is SUMMER SALE time at Sugar Creek Garden Center.  Check out all the latest and great flowers, trees, plants and great gifts as well at this fabulous nursery just down the road.  Summer classes are also in full swing, make sure you check out their schedule for great opportunities sto learn more about summer plants and lawn care for this time of year.



Nonstop creativity and Summer Cuteness continues to ooze from Sew What Mommy. Perfect appliques for summer time and more.

Check them out and you won’t be disappointed with these outfits that you can help customize or let them pick there perfect design for you. 

A new entry in my Blog Club.  Okay this one is just fall down funny and pure genius at the same time.  Along with my idol P!nk, I may have to add her to my list of Cool chic’s I want to be when I grow up.  Meet The Bloggess

Please also check out my other wonderful Chatter friends who help me help you all support each other in this awesome Momprenuer adventure and journey.   
Thoughtful Creations - Gift Baskets!
The Cupcake Girl - Homemade cupcakes in all kinds of varieties, flavors and ingredients
Plumfield Shop - Home decor, personal style, party favors, gifts and more.
Madison Lane Photography
Steele Creek Outreach - Volunteer Opportunities for local homeless.

Lastly, there is still room on the sign up sheet for "Operation - Feed Squad B"  For more info click here

COMING NEXT WEEK!

June giveaway ( a bit late I know…. Sorry like I said it is summer)

Happy Weekend my awesome readers, followers and friends. 
With Love,
Mary

Beach Feet

"As I walked out the door on our first day of vacation and felt my feet sink in the warm white sand I knew I was home...."

Home in the sense that I have always known my feet, along with the rest of me, belong here.... I don't know much about much, about I do know that the feel of sand in my toes makes everything seem well with the world.


It is just the way it goes with me.  I was born at the beach, vacationed every year at the beach.  Went to college at the beach, did homework on the beach, complained about heart aches, young love and jobs gone south to the beach.  Read books, sang songs, chased sand crabs, rode the waves, blissfully got married on the beach and even sadly, said goodbye to my PopPop as his ashes were spread among the ocean waves.
And while I grew up in Connecticut and have lived in Charlotte for over 16 years now.
My heart and soul belong where the water is blue and the sand is soft.

And when I am not on the beach, it whispers to me, in a soft spoken whistle which can bring me right back to where my feet want to dance all day long.
And I try and hang on to that.  Those long winter months when it is cold and grey and routine has grabbed hold of my feet and planted them in hard case cement.  Those days when it seems impossible to move to feel good to be motivated even happy at times.
I try to remember the sound of the surf, the thought of a bright sandy goodness where sounds of two little boys playing on the same beach I did when I was there age....

Reminders of my soul mate, the love of my life who loves the beach as much as I do.  How funny that the universe lined up our souls to enjoy a place where we can let all of our cares in the world float away with the sea breeze. 

And I find myself feeling so grateful that a place like this exists.  A place to draw hearts, smiles, and memories that will last me a lifetime of keeping my feet happy in a place where they will always belong.

For more of my beach pictures and tid bits on the Outer banks check out here

Get Organized! Introducing Carolina Neat Freak

One of the biggest challenges I have faced since becoming a mom is trying to stay on top of everything.  I remember when the boys were babies and diapers, wipes, burp cloths and bottles littered every ounce of my home.  I assumed (naively) that once they got older it would get easier.

I assumed wrong.

What was once the above mentioned items is now homework papers, overdue library books, Lego’s the occasional half chewed lollipop, kids DVD’s and almost always a sock, now liters just about every corner of my home.  Through in some dog hair and one stay at home Mama who can’t seem to remember where the vacuum cleaner is kept you have one great mess.

So it was with much anticipation (and a bit of intimidation) that I met with the awesome Kristin Lawrence with Carolina Neat Freak.  Why was I intimated you ask?  Well, I was convinced that she would take one look at me and automatically know that my closet is a bottomless pit and that the last time I organized my silverware drawer was pre-kids (horrifying, I know).

But just the opposite.  Kristin met me over coffee one day last week and with genuine ease and likability handed me a folder with information on her business; plenty of pictures, organizing tips, lists and a way to contact her.  I was put at ease immediately and that was within the first 2 minutes.  I must mention that because when you turn your house over to someone to help organize and shape up you want to be put at ease and I was instantly with her bright smile and her clear joy for helping people get back in control of staying organized.

Kristin found her organizing knack early on and gives most of the credit to her Grandmother who started her off young with making sure she picked up her toys and put everything away where it belonged.  Things always stayed clean and neat and from there Kristin began to follow in her Grandmother’s footsteps not only with herself but her friends, especially as she got older and began to help out class mates keep their work organized.    Before long she discovered how much she enjoyed this role and now after years of being a professional organizer she still loves every second of her family inherited gift.

Originally from Pittsburgh, Kristin has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration with a Marketing background.   She has been married for 13 years to her husband David, stays at home with children, Hunter (9) and Hayley (6), and currently resides in the Fort Mill area of South Carolina.  

Like a lot of Momprenuers, she began her business simply by helping out some friends and family members become better organized.  A quick note to mention, Carolina Neat Freak is not a cleaning service (vacuuming, scrubbing, etc...)  Instead Kristin is devoted to helping you find simple solutions for a Clutter free home.   She has 15 years of experience being a Professional organizer and tells me no job is too little or two small.   One of the cool things I learned while chatting with her is she goes above and beyond by helping you make use of things you already have around the house that you can use for organization.   The idea that I might actually have space and areas of storage I never knew I had was a great thought to digest.

After chatting with her for awhile I could begin to visualize Kristin’s high energy and love for organization being able to help not just me, but many people like me who are worse off than my cluttered house.  Some people are really in bad shape and need an action plan to start somewhere.  One of the key components in helping and hiring a professional to do so is to not only get you up off of the ground and take away the helplessness feeling of being overwhelmed.  I know I have been there.  Many times I have stood in my closet and not knowing when or where to start will turn around and walk out. 

In my case only a few months have gone by, but I know for many it can be years and over that time the loss of control and unorganized life can cause a lot of stress and frustration.  Kristin does point out that she is not a psychologist, although she has access to many resources in this industry.  Her skill and experience lies within helping you set up a system that makes sense to you and your particular situation whether it is a messy garage, a cluttered kitchen or pantry, or even if you have just moved into a new home and need help organizing your new living pace and set up.   A professional organizer will help you get motivated, set up priorities will teach you new ways to manage your time and deal with clutter.

Here are a few before and after Photos of jobs that Kristin has done over the years...

So if you have been wondering if getting organized is worth your time I highly recommend you contact Kristin.  Here is how her process works:

First – You get a FREE 30 minute phone consultation to discuss your needs and ensure a good fit.

Second -In person session (60-90 minutes) where you will clarify your goals and develop a step by step plan for success.  Once she has answered all of your questions and assessed the situation she will then schedule a hands on organizing session ($50.00 fee for this session).

Third – Organizing Session: You will then work with Kristin to fulfill your goals.  As you move through each step she will provide guidance, structure and will modify as you go along and move at a pace that works for you.   The number of hours involved will vary by project ($50.00 fee per hour for these sessions)

Fourth – Follow up.  Once you have completed your organizing sessions she will be available by phone or person for a complimentary one hour session to maintain your newly organized space (s)

Labels, tags, & some bins are provided the first organization session.  Also she let the client borrow tote bins for "Trash, Donate, and Keep" stuff so it is easier to organize.

Kristin is also happy to help you install hardware (hanging shelves, cabinet spacers etc...)
In a nut shell, the client has no need to lift a finger; Carolina Neat Freak will do it all.

Make sure you visit   www.carolinaneatfreak.com. For more information and how to go about scheduling a consultation.  Kristin will be happy to help you get back on track; In fact she is offering a great summer special for Lakeside Chatter.   When you make contact with Kristin, mention your saw her article on Lakeside Chatter she she will give you a 10% discount off of your first organization session of $50.00. 

So glad to have Carolina Neat Freak be a part of Lakeside Chatter’s family.  I know you will be just as impressed with Kristin, her great ability and experience to help you take control again over a part of your life that for so long has been controlling you!