The Cheap Chic Momma

Free printables to make a mom's life easier!

2012-01-09T14:35:00.000-07:00

Why not start the New Years off right and try elevating your organizational skills! Here are a few awesome FREE printables to get you started! Print on card-stock and laminate! Or, if you're the type to go above and beyond get it printed on dry erase board! Enjoy!

Weekly Planner from Arianstudio.

Weekly Scribble Menu from Ollibird Blog.

Loads of chic printables at Iheart Organizing.

Handy Dandy Cleaning Schedule from Kamley Lane.

Vajazzed

2012-01-06T11:55:00.000-07:00

Have you been Vajazzed lately? Do you know anybody who enjoys the fine art of Vajazzeling. Do you even know what the hell I'm talking about?

It's pretty much bedazzling your vag.

Apparently this is what extremely rich, in shape people do to make their vaginas look better.

Blogger Bryce from theluxaryspot.com enduring the ritual.

Could you imagine the chaffing that comes along with getting your vag Vajazzeled?!

Honey Boo Boo Child.

2012-01-05T16:07:00.001-07:00

There are sooooo many issues going on here. Honey Boo Boo Child is FIERCE. I wonder how her mother feels being in her daughter's shadow. Never mind. She's the "Coupon Queen." Eat that bizntaches!

I'm totally blaming my 1 year-old for forcing me to watch this last night. I was giving her a bottle and there was nothing else on. I swear.

FREE printables for us cheap mummys and daddys.

2012-01-03T13:06:00.000-07:00

I don't know who Mr. Printables is- but he seems like a decent guy. I really am pretty happy that I found his site (here) where you can download and print awesome learning flash cards, coloring pages and alphabet books.

They're so stinkin' cute.

Thanks Mr. Printables!

Kid's music that even THIS mom can tolerate...

2011-12-14T12:51:00.000-07:00

Not bad...not bad at all....

Once again, Sesame Street proves to kick Yo Gabba Gabba's Ass.

Will. I. Am. Stronger.

Outdoors with Jason Mraz

Katy Perry. Hot N Cold.

Bruno Mars. Don't Give Up.

Better than the Snuggie?!

2011-10-17T11:40:00.001-06:00

What could be more freakin' ~~ridiculous~~ awesome than the Snuggie?

My friends, I present to you...the Forever Lazy.

Watch the video. It's totally worth it.

Finally, a uni-tard for your forever lazy friends out there.

After all, what's more sassy and classy than having a shit flap on the back of your magenta jumper?

I know! A hood and sock attachments.

I mean seriously, who thinks of this shit? Because I want their job. Bad.

Have you found something better than a Snuggie? Better than the Forever Lazy? Comment below and you could win one of these bad boys. Probably not. But I will honorable mention you on my facebook page.

The flu can suck it.

2011-10-03T14:14:00.000-06:00

The flu has hit this household and it's really (like literally) shitty. At this time, cloth diapering my children is like a blessing and also the most disgusting job on the planet. I really don't need to go into the details here- Just use your imagination.

At this time I would just like to remind the folks out there that during flu season...

Please leave your sick shitty and barfy children at home.

Favorite Onesie Tutorials

2011-09-09T13:06:00.000-06:00

Must have been really cold last winter because it seems as if babies are popping out left and right! Birth control people! Use it!

This is what it looks like.

Some of the best baby gifts are homemade. I love custom itty bitty onesies! Make one for a knocked up friend- or for one of your own little ankle biters.

icandy shows us how to make onesies with bows, ruffles, and flowers- oh my!

Bekka teaches us how to make some rockin' hipster onesies with heat transfers.

Live A Little Wilder proves you can create an awesome argyle onesie WITHOUT sewing.

Crap I've Made came up with a simple tie onesie tutorial.

Pretty Partridge shares a beginners applique tutorial.

Handmade Baby Clothes has some awesome directions for reverse applique! Super cool!

Craftser- a GREAT resource for patterns, stencils and inspiration.

3 things I can do without.

2011-09-06T16:03:00.000-06:00

Chin plucking.
My American Express bill.
Unloading the dishwasher.

What are 3 things that you can do without?

Stud Undies

2011-08-19T21:11:00.000-06:00

And I thought that I was special.

Lies my friends told me.

2011-08-17T15:48:00.000-06:00

No, you don't look fat! You look great!

Okay, I've seen the pregnancy photos. And yes indeed, I had fat pregnancy face.

Diet Coke is fantastic!

Diet Coke sucks. Period. Diet anything sucks. The diet crap in those diet cokes will kill you.

My baby slept through the night at 6 weeks!

You're full if s.h.i.t. I don't believe you and neither do any of your other friends who have children. Give it a few days. You're baby will be ready to party like it's 1999 every 3 hours next week.

Breastfeeding makes you lose weight.

No, diet and exercise help you lose weight. Breastfeeding alone does not make you shed the pounds though it helps with getting your uterus to contract back to it's normal size. You simply cannot consume a diet coke and a cheeseburger daily and expect the baby fat to melt off...unless you are one the genetically gifted.

One child is easy.

One kid or a whole creeper van full of offspring- being a parent is hard. We all have our horrible, horrible, wish I was in a closet all alone moments but somehow we parental units find the strength to pull our shit together to become functioning members of society.

Pampers are better than Huggies.

No, Huggies are better than Papers.

Any other lies your friends told you that you would like to share? Post here or on Facebook!

Back from summer vacay.

2011-08-17T15:21:00.000-06:00

Did ya miss me and my sarcastic comments?

Thought you did.

Summer is still roaring over here in Montana, but I'm thinking that it's about time to gently make my appearance back into the blogger world.

The kids are taking their afternoon naps and it's cocktail hour. On to my next post!

Cleaning out your fridge is cool, yo?

2011-06-23T10:45:00.001-06:00

What to do when it's too freakin' hot to play outside?

And you feel like you should do something for the well-being of your household?

Clean out your fridge, yo!

It's a crappy job but somebody's momma gots to do it.

todaytomorrow

Things I could really learn to live without.

2011-06-21T11:14:00.000-06:00

I know that there are things that mother nature intended...but what the hell was she thinking when she created chin hair and cellulite?

Menstrual Cups. Freakin' disgusting or freakin' awesome?

2011-06-12T12:04:00.002-06:00

What's more disgusting than a cup full of menstrual blood?

A nasty, stinky, chemical laced tampon.

Have I weeded out the men reading this post yet?

I present to you the menstrual cup. A nifty alternative to tampons or pads.

Lunette in Cynthia. 34.95.

Why do I love this thing? Weeellll look at how cute it is!

It's so petite and squishy. Really, nothing to be afraid of...

How the heck does this thing fit?
If you can use a tampon you can use this. It sits lower than a tampon- but not so low that it's uncomfortable.

But seriously, what if it falls out?

It wont. This cup has suction. Not like a hoover, but it does the trick.

How do you clean it out in a public restroom? I mean, that's totally gross.

To clean the cup, you wash it with warm water and mild soap. However, when that's not going to happen, you can wipe it out with toilet paper or a Lunette Disinfecting Wipe. After the last day or your period boil the cup for 5 minutes and store it in it's satin bag.

How often do I have to empty the cup? Is it really gross?

The cup only needs to be emptied 2-4 times per day- depending on your flow. It's not gross and it's easy. Just relax, it wont take much effort and with some practice it will only take you a few seconds to get that sucker out.

Intrigued? Check out the Lunette menstrual cups at Green Mountain Babies on sale this week!

Tampons contain 2 things that are potentially harmful: Rayon (for absorbency) and diaxon (a chemical used in bleaching products).

Brought to you by the color yellow.

2011-05-24T14:27:00.002-06:00

I don't know why, but I have a sudden hard-on for yellow.

Watercolor in Sunshine Yellow by lauratrevery. 18.

Holiday Motel Print by stoopidgerl. 10.

Fascinator by CorrineONeill. 29.

Coda Wrap dress by NataJane. 145.

Friendly Flock Tack Pack by PaperPumpkin. 7.50.

Large Yellow Pom by pomtastic. 4.

Life Calendar by BrigadaCreative. 14.

Cherry Blossoms by LuzDesigns. 19.

Go the F*ck to Sleep

2011-05-11T15:00:00.000-06:00

Hey, as awesome as this title is I wont take credit for it. It's a book that Amazon has available for pre-order right now.

Go the Fuck to Sleep, by Adam Mansbach.

I don't know much about this book other than it's a book for adults....more specifically adults with kids. I'm pretty sure it's going to be awesome- and that's just judging by the title. I would be totally honored if someone were to buy this for me. K? Thanks.

Other way awesome titles for awesome books could be:

Shut the Fuck Up, a story about listening and patience.

Quit Playing with Your Junk, lessons in manners and public displays.

Leave Your Sister Alone or I'm Going To Take Your Birthday Away, a horror tale

Naptime- the NEW Cocktail Hour, a coffee table book.

Giveaway at Green Mountain Babies!

2011-05-09T12:52:00.000-06:00

Check out the giveaway at the Green Mountain Babies blog! Reusable, eco-chic boobie pads! Perfect for you or your lactating friends! You can also check out other rad eco-conscious momma items and cloth diapers at their website.

The inverse of sexy. High waisted bikinis.

2011-05-06T15:48:00.000-06:00

Is it just me or does the high waisted bikini really gross you out?

Really? What does it do other than emphasize the fact that you like to wear giant underwear as a swimsuit bottom replacement?

Not even Kesha can pull this shiz off. Talk about granny fanny.

I don't who started with this awesome idea. I have a feeling it was someone with questionable tastes.

High-Rise Bikini Bottom by Spanx. 98.

Happy Cinco De Mayo, Bitches.

2011-05-05T17:04:00.000-06:00

I'm celebrating with a pint of flat beer and watching Nick Jr. I'm living like a freakin' rock-star over here. How are you celebrating this fancy Mexican holiday?

Oh yeah, it's almost Easter.

2011-04-19T14:39:00.001-06:00

I almost forgot about Easter. It's one of those holidays that I totally space out until I walk into Target and go, "oh yeah, Easter is next week."

I ran into this tutorial on Ourbestbites.com on silk-dyed eggs. AWESOME.

They're so pretty and unique and you know your significant other has some horrible ugly ties in the closet.

I also love this idea for "Bunny Eggs" by Angela Yosten at Moda.

You could hang them by the window, or create a really bright Easter centerpiece.

I swear, I'm not a dirty hippie. How to make your own laundry detergent.

2011-04-08T13:36:00.000-06:00

Seriously, I wash my hair. Like every other day. I also wear deodorant....religiously. However, I will admit, I totally embrace my inner hippie when I make my own laundry detergent.

Reeeaaalllly? you ask. Yes really. And it works. It works on my toddler's skid marked super-hero underwear. It works on my nasty baby's poopy cloth diapers. AND it works on my designer jeans.

This is all you need to embrace your inner-hippy, or frugal self.

Borax. Ivory soap. Baking Soda. All of which are readily available and easily purchased at your local Target. Holla!

Based on Jab's Homemade Laundry Detergent Recipe.

What you need:

1 bar of Ivory soap. (I happen to like the smell of Irish Spring. You can do half and half, or one or the other.)

1 cup of Borax.

1 cup of baking soda. (Jab's recipe calls for washing soda. However, I have found baking soda to be super effective too!)

The most awesome way to make your own laundry detergent is with a food processor. It easily grinds up the soap and mixes the Borax and baking soda into a nice fine powder.

However, if you don't have a food processor, use a grater to shave the soap and mix it with the borax and baking soda in a large bowl.

To finish this ~~hippie~~ hipster project off I pour my powder detergent into a nice glass container or jar and store with a handy dandy scoop. (I use the old scoops that come with infant formula).

For normal loads use only 1 tablespoon. For super soiled smelly loads use 2.

We love this stuff here. Let me know how it works for you!

I'm back.

2011-04-08T12:57:00.000-06:00

I apologize for the super late post- but I was on my own personal Spring Break. I am happy to be back with some more Cheap Chic sass and crass.

Boobs.

2011-03-11T14:23:00.000-07:00

Thank you Bajeezus that this is NOT me.

Nursing. I really do have a love/not love so much relationship with it. I kind of miss having my boobs all to myself.

Hmmmm

2011-03-11T14:10:00.002-07:00

Hmmm, seems as if my blog list has mysteriously disappeared. I've added the ones that I could remember off of the top of my head, but if there is one on my list that I forgot that you remember let me know!

Pardon my dust...

2011-03-07T16:53:00.002-07:00

You may notice that my site may be experiencing some "problems." Bare with me and hopefully they will be resolved soon!

Netflix Babysitter.

2011-03-02T09:47:00.000-07:00

Don't judge me...you know you do it too. "Do what?" you "Do-Gooders ask. I hire the Netflix babysitter. For a bargain price of $5.99 a month Nanny Netflix will stream to your TV and entertain your child while you get dressed, make dinner, and this is the best one...GO TO THE BATHROOM ALONE.

Why not just turn on Nick Jr? Because Nick Jr. sucks. Honestly, I cannot take anymore of that musical crap. Besides, it weirds me out that some 20 somethings play over enthusiastic band buddies in Nick's Fresh Beat Band.

Come on. Look at this crew. The dude in the yellow sweatshirt is a total tool.

Professional tampons for professional people with professional periods.

2011-02-11T09:19:00.000-07:00

I didn't know that you had to be a professional to use one of these.

Glory Glory Hallelujah! Nordstrom Rack is online!

2011-02-08T10:15:00.000-07:00

Effffff yeah! Nordstrom Rack is finally online! Women all over America are squealing with joy!

Finally, clothes for The Cheap Chic Momma!

2011-02-07T11:01:00.000-07:00

Geeeeeezus, I have been looking for years for a store...a catalogue that suited my fashion tastes. As a former fan of J-Crew I felt burned by their new found lack of quality and bizzare fit- truly meant for one who has no idea what the hell a stretch mark is.

So, my lady friends. I did a bit of Google searching, blog stalking, and catalog browsing and came up with a list of my NEW favorite clothing lines for the Cheap Chic Mommas out there!

Kennebunk Silk Tank by L.L. Bean Signature.79.

LL Bean Signature. Yes. I typed LL Bean. I guess they realized that their target shoppers were quickly dwindling in population. Their "signature" line is preppy and fitted.

Boatneck Sailer dress by Land's End Canvas. 59.

Land's End Canvas. Definitely reminiscent of J.Crew from back in the day. Classic styles with a modern edge and fit.

Barcelona Skirt by Garnet Hill. 68.

Garnet Hill. Known for their fabulous and expensive bedding, Garnet Hill carries clothing that reminds me of Anthropologie- but a bit more polished.

Spring Shift Dress by Boden. 98.

Boden. Bright colors and modern styles. Lurve the looks here- wish I loved the prices too.

Corduroy Dipper Pant by Athleta. 84.

Athleta. Yoga inspired clothing that's perfect for running errands, doing lunch, chasing your kids and working out...all without having to change your outfit.

Pink makes my heart flutter!

2011-01-31T16:08:00.001-07:00

I suppose if you don't have anything better to do you could think about all the pink fabooshness that Valentine's Day inspires. Seriously though, I do have better things to do like folding laundry and vacuuming, but I would much rather ooh and ahh and these fabulous pink pretties!

Wool Felt Flower Clip by LadybugBowtique. 4.99.

Valentine Funky Heart Dishes by Mypolkadotpottery. 10.

Grey & Fuschia Baby Booties by funkyshapes. 26.95.

Lots of Love 4x6 print by LaurenAlexander. 6.

Zinnia Hobo by retrofied. 68.

Dinner Napkins by MaryLittfin. 16.

Letter Press Note Card Set by DailySip. 10.

10 Be My Valentine Poms by pomtree. 28.

Strawberry Thumbprint Cookies

2011-01-28T14:01:00.000-07:00

These delicious cookies were fun to make with my kiddo....after I let go of the huge mess he was making in my kitchen.

Strawberry (or whatever jam you have in your fridge) Thumbprint Cookies

1 softened stick of butter

1/2 cup sugar

1 egg

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1/4 tsp. salt

1 1/4 cup flour

1/2 cup jam (I used strawberry)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Combine all ingredients other than the jam in a mixing bowl. You'll get some nice stiff dough in no time.

Make tablespoon sized balls (or whatever size you please) and set them on a nonstick baking sheet.

Bake for 10 minutes.

While the cookies are baking zap the jam in the microwave to soften it up.

With the back of your tablespoon or teaspoon press in the centers of the cookies.

Spoon the jam into the indented centers of the cookies.

Bake for another 10 minutes.

Enjoy!

Cloth Diapers- Why I love, hate, love them.

2011-01-16T15:48:00.001-07:00

The Cloth Diaper.

The most disgusting thing known to man? Perhaps. But it makes sense.

Ask my husband. He will tell you, "Cloth diapers are the most disgusting things in the universe and I will not touch them unless you promise me sexy times...even then I may not."

True story. Ask him.

With baby "numero uno" the thought of reusing a diaper was about as a wonderful idea as an at home enema kit. Eventually baby "numero dos" was on it's way and the thought of spending even more money on diapers and less on designer jeans and "slutty mom" shoes was starting to eat away at my soul. I decided that I would flirt with the idea of using...and reusing the cloth diaper.

Retro cloth diaper cover by FluffysDiapers.10.

My number one question before I jumped on the HipppieVolkswagon Cloth Diaper Van was: "Do I have to learn diaper origami?...because I don't really have the time for that."

The answer to that question is no. That would have been lame and I probably would have continued to dress my kids in paper underwear.

After a bit of trial and error and lots of stupid questions I figured out which style of cloth diapering would work for my family. Turns out I like a little bit of each. Covers, AIOs, AI2s...just depends on my mood, placement of the sun and what my Wigi board has to say.

I love all of the different colors and patterns of cloth diapers that are available.

I hate the initial cost of purchasing the diapers. However, ebay is your friend and you can find lots of great deals!

I love that I'm spending less on disposable diapers with stupid prints.

I also love that because I cloth diaper my kids I'm automatically "eco cool." Heck yes I am!

Interested in cloth diapering? Check out this post on cloth diapering from The Life of a Little Bear for lots of useful info and links or post your cloth questions here!

Clickin' Moms

2011-01-10T14:26:00.000-07:00

Do you have a SLR camera and are freaked out about getting off of the "automatic" button? Do you have any digital camera, but what to become a better photographer? Do you just need to get inspired? Check out Clickin' Moms. I've been a member for a year and love it!

Click on the banner and use code FRIEND at checkout for a 20% off discount.

Dear Muffin Top,

2011-01-04T15:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Muffin Top,

I friggin' hate you. I do a few good deeds in my life time...like, say, give birth to two beautiful children and what do I get in return?

I'll tell you what I, I mean we mothers get! This marvel of overhanging of flesh. Or, more beautifully described as the "muffin top". Now I'll be fair here, some are more phenomenal than others however big or small, we all feel the same about it.

It friggin' sucks.

Don't let your friends lie to you. Your pants really are too tight. If I can see your nasty camel toe I can sure as hell see your muffin top and that is a site that I don't care to see.

Goodbye days of uber lowrise pants and mid-drift tops. We had some good times.

Feeling bad about your muffin top? Men all over the world are embracing their "fat tire."

Happy 2011!

2010-12-31T17:16:00.000-07:00

Now I could be getting ready to party. Ya know, enjoying my first cocktail of the night as I get made up to go out with friends. But instead, I am enjoying my third cocktail of the night, blogging, and roasting a leg of lamb in the oven.

HA! This is how a mother of a 2 year old and newborn celebrate the new year!

And it's not just me. I made my husband stay home too.

To my dear childless friends. Go out. Get drunk. And have a happy fuckin' new year!

The Cheap Chic Momma's Baby Leggings Tutorial

2010-12-28T09:34:00.002-07:00

This is my very non-technical Cheap Chic Momma baby leggings tutorial. If you're looking for fancy sewing terms and approximate measurements, look somewhere else.

First of all, did you know that baby legs are just really long (knee-high) women's socks? Thrilling, right?

I purchased these sweet babies at Target for $2 each.

Cut off the toes and heels. This is what's left.

Next, take the shorter piece of the sock and fold it in half, right side out.

Now, take your folded tube piece with the "raw" edges facing up and slide it over the "raw" end of the long piece of the sock.

Sew the raw edges of the sock together- being careful not to sew the tube shut! Some may like to pin the fabric in place before sewing, but I'm a little crazy so I just skip the pins and sew. Zig-zag stitch to finish.

Turn the cuff that you just have sewn right side out and ta-daaa!

Baby legs!

Did you miss me?

2010-12-27T10:17:00.001-07:00

Ha! After a much needed vacation from the blog world I AM BACK! This crazy momma and her brave hubby dragged the 2 year old and 2 month old all the way to South America for a few weeks of wine tasting and sunshine. Are we crazy? Heck yes. But the barf of the airplane was totally worth it.

And to show how stoked I am to be back I am going to post an awesome cheap chic baby leggings tutorial for you crafty mommas this afternoon. Just as soon as toddler man takes his nap. God I love nap time!

Yo Gabba Gabba= WTF?

2010-11-18T10:49:00.000-07:00

I'm all for letting my child watch some good wholesome TV... you know, the show with the bears and their moral dilemmas...Sesame Street....heck, I've been known to let my toddler watch The Simpsons. And then there is this strange, strange, show. Yo Gabba Gabba. Or, as some have appropriately referred to it, "Yo Gabba Gay." HEY by the way, I like gay people!

I don't even know who this guy is. I just know that he has issues. He kind of looks like my brown friend Brendan, but I'm pretty sure even he wouldn't ever willingly choose to tuck in his flaming orange pants into his white tube socks.

So, for the sake of myself, and all of my other mommy friends, I decided to do a little "at home" background check on this awesome dude in orange spanx. I mean, you wouldn't just let any dude do the shuffle in your living room in a uni-tard...would you? Creeeeper.

I present to you...

Lance Robertson. AKA DJ Lance Rock.

Yes, a DJ.

And a former band-member of the indie-pop bands The Raymakers and Majestic.

Before his magical orange jumpsuit decent into the LA music scene, he was the owner of a record store in St. Louis, Missouri.

Thank you Wikipedia.

"The Situation" and another loose goose on safe sex.

2010-11-16T15:26:00.000-07:00

Thank you Bristol. I would totally trust you and the douche who calls himself "The Situation" to talk to my kids about safe-sex.

Tis the season to be cheap...

2010-11-10T20:59:00.000-07:00

Seriously. Sure people say that they love to give...but come on...deep down we love to receive even more! Whether it's a small note, a book, or a gift-card to our favorite store- it's always nice to know that we're loved and appreciated. These days it seems silly to spend tons of gifts for friends and family, yet it's that time of year to do a little extra to show the peeps in our life that we still got those "warm and fuzzy" feelins for them.

So, I give you: Rad Holiday gifts for under $10. Yes, I'm bringing RAD back.

Labrador Retriever Magnet set by blennox. 8.99.

Does your friend love their dog more than they love you? Then this is perfect! From Retrievers to Shuh Tzus, this Etsy store carries them all!

Rose Vegan Soap by DeShawnMarie. 4.95.

Got a friend who just wont clean up their act...or needs that subtle hint that they stink?

16 Zesty Lemon Meringue Marshmellows by FusionSweets. 8.99.

For those with discriminating diets- these are gluten free.

Funky Heart Dishes by Mypolkadotpottery. 10.

Perfect place to lay a few rings or keys.

Fruity Pink Flowers Giclee 4x6 Print by printmakerjenn. 8.

Wouldn't this look pretty in a little chic frame?

EcoFriendly Coffee Sleeve by petitelegume. 8.

Amy Butler Spruce French Wallpaper Checkbook Cover by Treasuredtotes08. 7.50.

Pretty and functional. For those rare times when you actually write a check these days.

Nap time- is it the new cocktail hour?

2010-11-04T15:33:00.000-06:00

First off, let me answer my own title...YES.

How do I say this so that my non-momma friends can understand...naptimes are $$. They're a freakin' vacation at home. It's the best times since turning 21.

And I don't just let them go to waste.

Sometimes I craft...

Sometimes I pay bills...

Sometimes I clean...

Sometimes I read...

Sometimes I go to the bathroom...(alone and without any offspring banging on the door!)

And sometimes I drink....while doing all of the above. (Except while going to the bathroom...that would be weird.)

What do you do during your kid's nap time?

By the way, during this nap time, I'm enjoying a mediocre glass of wine. Hey, not every bottle is a winner.

Easy Peasy FREE Newborn Pants Pattern

2010-10-29T09:01:00.000-06:00

Made By Rae has posted her basic newborn pant sewing pattern here. It's perfect for the beginner sewer, and would make an awesome gift the new chic momma to be. Ch..ch..ch..check it out!

Nice words to describe a naughty toddler today...

2010-10-26T14:14:00.000-06:00

Irrational.
Spirited.
Free-Spirited.
Boob.
Turd.

Eh, forget it. My kid was acting like a donkey butt today.

Bad-ass items for the diaper bag

2010-10-18T13:14:00.000-06:00

Dang it, just when I thought I had gotten rid of it for a while it comes back into my life again...no, it's not the herpes, I'm talking about the diaper bag.

If I have to haul this mom's only accessory around it might as well be a chic one, right? There is no way I'm carrying around some Winnie The Poo(poo) bag, and if you're reading this, neither should you.

I rock this Petunia Pickle Bottom. However, the retail price of $170 may not suit most people's fancy. I found this perfectly cheap chic Petunia Pickle Bottom from Target for only $44.99. Sweeeeeeeet.

Now, what you put in your diaper is a whole different story. Here is some stuff that you may not think you should have in your bag...but you should.

Eco-friendly snack bag by simplypractical. 6.

Love this. Especially with a toddler who is constantly needing snacks to get through a shopping trip at Target. I figure I go through 5+ ziplock bags a week- which is lame, when I could get some chic reusable bags like this one! Plus, this seller offers FREE shipping!

Chenille Burp Cloth by theredpistachio. 5.50.

Burp clothes should be cute, not old and stainey.

Crayon Roll Up by HappyBabeeandBeeyond. 6.

You need this and a small notepad stashed in your bag if you're toting around a toddler. Quiet coloring will hopefully by you some time at the restaurant or the brewery.

Perfume Oil by DressGreen. 7.

Because there will be times when you will smell like, poop, pee, barf or a bit of each. These will hopefully make you think you smell better than you actually do.

Changing Pad by polkadottotboutique. 25.

There will be places that will be super disgusting (ie: airplanes and restaurant restrooms) where you will need to change your kid's explosive diaper. Whip out the changing pad, use it and wash it later.

So, I finally popped!

2010-10-11T09:40:00.000-06:00

Introducing......

Ruby!

After a 2 mile hike, a long drive on a bumpy road, raspberry leaf tea, and enough pineapple to burn the tastebuds off of my tongue Ruby finally arrived on Tuesday, October 5th at 1:51 in the afternoon.

6lbs. 5oz & 18.5" long!

She is such a chic little thing and a wonderful sleeper! We're smitten over her.

I'm about to pop.

2010-09-20T13:26:00.000-06:00

Knowing that I'm about to pop, or maybe even leak some amniotic fluid all over the female hygiene isle at Target is both exciting and freakin' nerve racking at the same time. I just think, "the horror!" of having to run back to my car with wet pants (God, I hope I'm not wearing a dress sans underwear)! The sad thing is, I probably wouldn't even alert the Target clerk of the slippery "safety hazard" looming in front of the wall of giant maxi pads. I'd just peace out- really. fast.

Now, I've already been through this getting ready for baby bit. Still, it doesn't get any less easier. Sure I already have the infant seat, the crib and insane number of obnoxiously cute onesies from baby #1. However, the born again pregnant ladies still have to remember to stock that shopping cart with the most embarrassing items you could possibly throw in there. And duh, right when you're reaching for the off-brand stool softener you run into some beautiful young people you know from the Country Club. Awesome.

Pleeeaaasssseeee don't look in my cart. I think to myself. I suddenly felt like a teenager who just started her period and is wearing the most ginormous maxi-pad ever and everyone can see it through my stretch pants.

Aw, fuck, who cares.

I smiled, made small talk and then carried on stocking up on ginormous-super aborbant-extra long- maxi pads, chapped nipple cream, and Tucks.

Oregon

2010-09-20T13:05:00.000-06:00

A perfect way to end the summer...

Picking blueberries.

Reece feasted upon so many blueberries that he later enjoyed 3 dumps and a diaper rash later that afternoon...

Playing with Daddy at the Oregon Coast.

And running away from mommy and her freakin' annoying camera.

I think I could get more sleep if I just wore a diaper.

2010-08-25T22:50:00.000-06:00

As I laid in bed last night, 2:35AM, in the midst of my 3rd trimester of pregnancy I am forced to evaluate my situation. It's the third time I've woken up to pee, and I'm thinking to myself, "wouldn't it be easier if I just wore a diaper?" I mean, then I wouldn't have to roll out of bed like a lazy walrus and shlep my pregnant ass to the potty 5 times a night. I could maybe even get a solid 9 hours of sleep! Hellz yeah!

This is also what I'm considering...

A frozen yogurt only diet. It sounds good. It tastes good. And damnit- it's one of those diets that only a pregnant lady can get away with.

Developing a chic stretchy-seamless-wasteband NON preggo line of denim. Maternity jeans are seriously, seriously so comfortable. They're seamless with the tightest shirts and make that muffin top disappear! Every woman should enjoy this luxury!

Always accepting cuts in line for the bathroom- even when I don't really have to go that bad. A common misconception is that if a preggo woman is in line for the restroom she will pee her pants if she doesn't get in within 30 seconds. Not true. I can totally hold my pee. I should just milk the heck out of this pregnancy and accept all cuts in line from now on.

Male gynecologists. I'm not quite sure what exactly makes a man want to look at messed up vaginas all day long- but I'd like to think that one day I will have the courage to ask one of them what inspired them to go into this particular field.

What I've been working on.

2010-08-23T09:48:00.000-06:00

The past 2 weeks we've been lucky to have friends and family stop by our home in Montana. Some how I managed to sneak out of the house to the fabric store and fit in some sewing during a really unusually long naptime. Yes, 1 unusually long naptime. (See My Kid Is A Giant Herpe.)

Toddler sheets. Tutorial can be found here.

So freakin' easy I can't believe I didn't do these years ago!

My new hip green nursing cover. Tutorial can be found here.

This is going to be my new handmade gift to my new mommy friends. Another super easy, chic, useful project!

The blogging will be a bit slow as I am currently on vacation and about to drop off the laptop for a much needed tune-up, chasing a toddler and growing a baby in my belly. All that- while Thanita @ Chic & Simple Blogs will be working on my Cheap Chic Blog makeover! Yay!

Kiwi Sorbet

2010-08-16T13:35:00.000-06:00

Kiwi Sorbet. Sweet, sour and cool.

I whipped this easy treat up in my Cuisinart food processor and ice-cream maker. So far this is my favorite sorbet that I've created. Maybe it's me being knocked-up, but I can eat it every night in bed while watching "Chelsea Lately". It's that good.

Kiwi Sorbet
Makes about 1 quart.

1 cup sugar
1 cup water
10 ripe and peeled kiwi fruit
Juice of 2 limes
1 tsp. vanilla extract
dash of kosher salt

Combine sugar and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Stir mixture until sugar dissolves. Remove saucepan from burner and let the simple syrup completely cool. (You can also let the mixture cool in the fridge.)

Put the peeled kiwi fruit, simple syrup and lime juice, vanilla and salt in the food processor. Puree until smoooooooooooooth.

Add the pureed mixture to your ice-cream maker. Process according to manufacturer's directions or desired thickness.

Reece approved.

My kid is a giant herpe.

2010-08-13T10:05:00.000-06:00

I mean, my kid has herpes....

Seriously.

Now, please get your head out of the freakin' gutter. It's called Roseola and is a viral illness caused by the herpes virus 6. Not that other one.

It started out with 2 days of an insane fever. By insane, I mean, I went insane. The kid was a grumpy midget.

Then a day later my kid turned into a giant herpe. Well, he broke out into a full body rash.

Today, still a rash. He is being such a wiener. A wiener with herpes. Super bumpy...I mean grumpy so I am having a super blast being a mom this week.

Hopefully I can get back to my regularly scheduled sarcastic blogging soon.

PS. "Thank yous" all around for the awesome fan mail I've been receiving! I am really humbled that you think my blog is worthy of sharing with your friends and family and am so excited that I'm not the only one out there with a warped sense of humor.

Good Excuses

2010-08-10T08:57:00.000-06:00

Good excuses that may or may not work for you.

I'm so tired.
I'm contracting.
I'm itchy.
I'm on the rag.
My cramps are really bad.
I think I have an infected ingrown hair.
Your back b.o. is really strong tonight.

I'd like to know your good excuses too. Please post.

Shake It.

2010-08-07T11:50:00.000-06:00

Michael Franti- "Shake It"

My kid loves this song. He shakes it all over the place when he hears it. I think it's awesome. And I'm not just saying it because I'm obsessed with the guy.

PG Porn for Moms.

2010-08-02T13:35:00.000-06:00

It's about time.

Getting ready for baby

2010-07-28T13:40:00.000-06:00

I've still got over 2 months left and it's finally setting in that I have ~~shit~~ stuff to do before the baby arrives. For the past few months the crafty-ness has sort of left me (I blame the pregnancy and chasing a wiggly toddler around) but I think the crafting itch is starting to come back....

Nursing cover. (AKA the "hooter hider")

I really want to get to making a nursing cover. I never had one with Reece and was so jealous of the cute ones I saw my friends use- yet too cheap to buy one from Target. Made By The Mama Monster has a super great tutorial that I can't wait to try!

Boppy Cover

The Boppy brand nursing cover that I purchased last year fell apart after 1 washing. They're so expensive and cheaply made that I was reluctant to purchase another one. The fabric patterns that are available right now aren't really that cute either. I can't wait to get to Sew EZ's PDF Pattern for a Boppy cover. At only 3.75 for the pattern it's a bargain. I've also purchased and used Sew EZ's shopping cart cover PDF. The instructions were clear and simple and the finished product came out awesome.

Fitted Sheet for Pack N Play

The Prudent Baby's tutorial for her DIY Fitted Sheet for Pack 'n Play seems so easy! I can't believe I never figured out how to make one before. I only have 1 crappy sheet for the P&P and would love to make 2 more in fun patterns for baby #2.

This "Soak It Up Nursing Pads" pattern from bellasymphony's Etsy shop really caught my eye. Maybe it's her choice of fabulous fabric choices- but they make boobie pads look chic! I had used expensive disposable pads with #1, but I would really like to give these babies a try!

Maternity Melons.

2010-07-26T13:47:00.000-06:00

Why, it's another post on boobs! Hey, I like 'em. Don't judge.

It's no secret. My maternity melons are getting huge. So big in-fact I had to buy new swimsuit top to keep these babies in line...or at least pg-13 rated when I'm at the pool. This got me thinking, I'm probably stretching the crap out of my regular bras. This led me to another thought of how freakin' cheap I am. I'm going to look for some fabulous nursing bras on Ebay. Sure it gives people the heebejeebeeezee to buy underwear off of Ebay...but let me clarify. I'm talking bras, even more importantly it has to be NWT. (New. With. Tags.) No, previously "lightly" worn g-strings here.

Cake Nursing Bra. 65.

Elle Macpherson nursing bra. 55.

Le Mystere Underwire Nursing Bra. 56.

Bravado Soft Cup Nursing Bra. 45.

Ebay creeps you out? No worries, these bras can all be found at BareNecessities.com!

How To Get Boys To Read.

2010-07-23T14:06:00.000-06:00

I was procrastinating the other night on MSNBC and came across this article titled How to get boys to read? Try a book on farts. Uh, duh. Brilliant! I mean, if my kid isn't going to be reading Chaucer ..or even The Little Engine That Could anytime soon he might as well be appreciating a good book on farts! (ie: SweetFarts, by Raymond Bean.) Here are some more books that I think my kid will love...

This jewel has been around a while. Ya know, a classic. 7.95.

Because there is a story behind every good fart. 10.04.

OOOh, another shitty mystery! 7.99.

A story about another asshole on the beach. 6.99.

Do frogs fart? Seriously? 13.22.

Completely inappropriate children's toys that I love.

2010-07-21T13:48:00.000-06:00

Have you ever heard of Kidrobot? I ran into the SoHo shop a few weeks ago during our trip to NYC. The place was full of little wealthy kids and their hipster parents buying them these inappropriate, overly-priced plastic pieces of crap for their wee ones. So of course, I too had to purchase a few pieces of Frank Kozik designed crap for my little hipster. (Thanks Grandma!)

Note the stab wound on the guy with the afro.

Reece especially enjoys pulling off their legs and swapping them with each-other. So creative.

Here are a few more of my favorites that I left behind.

Happy Rabbit. 19.95.

Wonder why he's so happy?

Mini-'Stache Labbit Pride. 16.95.

Even gay rabbits with staches need lovin'.

De La Soul 3 Pack. 50.

I like them. The music and the figurines.

The Double Stroller Debate

2010-07-19T16:17:00.000-06:00

I seriously never thought that I would ever be in this place...don't worry kids I am not buying a mini-van, I'm referring to the double stroller.

Once, only thought of for people with twins- the double stroller is making a comeback for chic moms with young children close in age who are terrified to go into public without means to contain their little ~~monsters.~~ I mean, children.

Double strollers come in all sorts of monstrosities. They also come with all sorts of price-tags. These are my current top 3 favorite double strollers.

Let me introduce you to my favorite, The Phil & Ted Sport Buggy.

Yes, I know it's sexy. With it's off-road capabilities and it's capability to convert into a double/single stroller it's what the mom crowd secretly wants. Unfortunately, at $450 you may need to not buy food for your family for a few months to afford this one.

Next we have the Tike Tech All Terrain X3 Sport Double Stroller.

This is another good looking stroller with great sun protection. I also really love that it has big SUV style wheels! Great for hiking and smooth walks. $350.

On to the Graco Quattro Tour duo Stroller.

This is a swell, street stroller. I like the sleekness of the design and the convenience of the beer holders. Unfortunately this does not convert to a single stroller. Comes with a decent price-tag of $250.

I would love to know what you guys have and why you love it! Send me a message or post a comment!

Why I used to make fun of leggings and still do...

2010-07-12T10:04:00.000-06:00

It really wasn't that long ago that I was making fun of stretch pants...well, now they're called "leggings" because apparently that's more socially acceptable. Really, there few instances when leggings are really socially acceptable. For instance, they are perfectly acceptable in a Jazzercize class or like, if you're an Olympic athlete.

First, I would like to bring up the reasons as to why I had made fun of "leggings" for years...

They're wide at the ass, and skinny at the ankles. Super flattering.

The stretchy waist band. This of course screams, "I am really into fashion!"

Stirrups. No, not the kind at the gyne's office, but they make me feel just as awkward.

The "camel toe" or in this case I would like to point out the "camel foot" displayed by the lovely Coco in the above photo.

The fine line of looking chic and looking like a balloon animal at a child's birthday party.

Why I still make fun of "leggings" now...

They've become socially acceptable.

The "wet" look.

Denim leggings. If you want to wear pants that look like jeans, WEAR JEANS!

One size does not fit all.

Metallics are back!

You can now purchase them with zippers. Because that's cool.

Men think they can wear them too. I should rephrase, some men...okay, a small population of men. Hey, I don't want to see the outline of your small penis, okay?

Just a word of caution regarding stretch pants. I understand that leggings these days are indeed comfortable. But readers, please beware of when stretch pants just are not stretchy enough. Just because they're affordable and celebrities are embracing them- this does not mean that they look good- on you. Few people look good with an ass that looks like it's suffocating and a English muffin spill-over to boot. You are not doing anyone any favors.

What do you think, time for a blog makeover?

2010-07-08T13:28:00.000-06:00

Welp, I'm back from our vacation from the Big Apple. Loved it- except for the crappy cold that we all came back with. While I'm recovering I'm pondering this thought, is it time for a blog makeover? What do you guys think?

Peace out.

2010-06-30T20:22:00.001-06:00

Well my Cheap Chic Peeps, I am out.

Don't get too excited.

The family is going on vacation to New York City! Sha-wing!

To keep you busy (for about 5 minutes) here are some of my favorite posts...

Children's Music That Wont Make You Cringe.

Explosive Diarrhea and Other Acts of Humility.

Cheap Chic Momma's Rules to live by.

Baby Cakes.

Wedding season and I have nothing to wear.

Mom Jeans.

My Favorite Baby Tutorials.
Suprise! I Can Bake Apple Cream Cheese Muffins.

Peace out.

Kid Friendly Creamy Carrot Cilantro Soup.

2010-06-30T13:15:00.000-06:00

Honestly. I have no idea why I'm posting this. It's been 90 degrees the past 2 days and perhaps the last thing you want for lunch is a steaming hot bowl of creamy carrot soup.

Well, just in case you do, I present....

The recipe is inspired from the chic-est baby and toddler cookbook around, The Petite Appetite.

Carrot-Cilantro Soup

2 tbsp. butter or olive oil

1 cup chopped onion

1 minced garlic clove

2 cups low sodium vegetable broth

about 6 large carrots, steamed and processed into puree

1 1/2 cups whole milk

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro

sea salt & pepper to taste

First, you want to have your carrot puree on hand. Steam it or microwave it, then process it in a Cuisinart or blender with a bit of water till desired consistency. You shouldn't have any big chunks in there. Set aside.

Next, sauté the onion and garlic in butter. Mmmm...butter.

Once the onions are translucent add the vegetable broth and carrot puree. Bring to a boil then simmer for a half hour.

Lastly, stir in the milk and chopped cilantro. Add sea salt and pepper to taste.

Seriously, my kid loves this. He has recently been on vegetable strike for some personal reason or another, and this delightful orange colored soup finally ended that!

See, he likes it so much that he's even spooning it out of his bib!

Brought to you by the color YELLOW.

2010-06-28T13:10:00.000-06:00

A few of my favorite yellow things today...

Yellow & robin egg blue cottage. by DoorCountyworks. 15.

10 mustard floral thank you cards. by TwoPoodlePress. 6.75.

Cherry blossoms jewelry box. by designshutusa. 29.50.

Yellow travel ceramic mug with bike. by LennyMud. 20.

Spirits in my bottle harden lim. ed. print. by helenanddarik. 25.

Giant fork shirt. by Xenotees. 22.

Citrine earrings. by wingbysea. 22.

Yellow Cotton Dress. by Worldland. 50.

I heart the carnival print. by ara1333photography. 15.

Link Love

2010-06-28T10:38:00.000-06:00

I gotta love the love here. Check out Chic & Cheap Nursery and her post on my clothespin display for the craft challenged!

Thaaaannnnkkkkkksss!

Clothespin Photo Display

2010-06-21T09:56:00.000-06:00

Easy peasy, cheap nursery decor.

Really, you could do this anywhere in your home.

Clothespin Photo Display. For the craft-challenged.

I was checking out this super inspirational photographer's blog (503!) where she graciously shares her awesome Photoshop polaroid template for creating a super cute clothespin photo display. Of course, you don't need this template to create create your display. Any photos, drawings or small prints will do.

You will need some string or ribbon. I was feeling thrifty so I found some twine, or whatever this is called in the garage.

You will also need 2 of these dohickys. Is that how you spell that word? Just Googled it. The word is spelled doo.hick.ey. It's a screw with a circular end. I purchased a package at Target (in the section with the screws) for less than $2. You will need to screw 2 of these into the wall...or, if you're indecisive, or cheap, or simply too lazy to run to the store you can use thumbtacks.

Seriously, this is the tricky part. Tie the string or ribbon from screw a. to screw b. Use clothespins. I made my clothespins pretty with Modgepodge and scrapbook paper. (Easy tutorial found here.) Or you can purchase cute clips from Etsy here. Make sure the string is taught enough so that the photos don't hang too low.

Note: I put Reece's photo display over his crib, apparently a little too low as he immediately pulled it down during his naptime. Super duper.

Happy Anniversary!

2010-06-16T13:27:00.000-06:00

Happy anniversary to us!

Aaaaaaaaaaaw.

Hand Made Father's Day Ideas

2010-06-14T13:52:00.000-06:00

If you're feeling a little hands on try out one of these hand made Father's Day ideas.

Molly's Sketchbook Father's Day Tie from The Purl Bee.

How awesome is this? Have you checked out the price of a new tie lately? Insane. The fabric possibilities are nearly endless!

Freezer paper shirt tutorial from Neither Hip Nor Funky.

Flex your craft muscles with this tutorial. This is something I seriously want to try...It's going to be awesome. I just know it.

Folded shirt card from Martha Stewart.

Oh Martha, your craft monkey's never cease to amaze me.

Father's Day Gift For Your Superhero by Alphamom.

All you need are some snacks, bags, a printer, glue and scissors. Voila. Instant super hero gift!

Almost Forgot Father's Day!

2010-06-11T12:46:00.000-06:00

Oops. I was informed by my husband last night that Father's Day is next week. Ya know, just a casual reminder of :

"So, what are you going to do for me for Father's Day?"

"What, Father's Day? Isn't that like, in August?"

"Are you serious?"

"Uh yeah, are you serious?"

"It's next week. You know, you didn't get me anything for my birthday either..."

It's true. I didn't get him anything for his birthday either. However, I did cook him dinner. I also gave birth to his first born, and am currently carrying his second child. So there.

Okay, whatever. I have no idea what I'm doing, purchasing or eating for this day of Father's. However, here are some ideas to hopefully help you other peeps that may have or have not forgotten about Father's Day, which is next Sunday, June 20th.

Original Designed Pint Glass by BreadandBadger. 15.

You know you like that mustache glass. You know it.

Rectangle Silver Cuff Links by ErinJaneDesigns. 64.

Classy cuff links for that classy guy!

Proud Papa Dog Tag Necklace by BragAboutIt. 34.

Men's Shaving Kit by ShopRedLeaf. 18.

This is a winner as I purchased it for the hubsters last year for Father's Day. May I suggest the mandarin orange scented products.

Beer Kit. Mr. Beer. 39.95.

What's more hip then home brewing right now?

Mesh Chef's Pan or Roasting Pan. Williams Sonoma. 49.95 & 39.95

My husband says BBQing makes him feel "manly". You know what else is manly? Dishes.

Easy Watermark

2010-06-09T13:47:00.000-06:00

What the heck is that you say? Ya know, that annoying, slightly intrusive text in the photo. It's called a watermark and if you blog or have Flickr you should get one. It doesn't necessarily keep people from stealing your photos and claiming them as their own, but it helps. And if peeps use your photo in a blog post it lets their readers know where the image came from. In this case, it comes from me @ www.cheapchicmomma.com

I used this super simple tutorial from CoffeeShop to create mine. It took me 5 minutes. Then I checked out this video tutorial from kwernerdesign blog to turn it into a Photoshop brush.

What we've been doing...

2010-06-08T21:55:00.000-06:00

It has been a busy few weeks here in "Big Sky" country. Family came to visit. Unfortunately for my parents the weather blew. (Literally.) Fortunately for my sister, her last day was beautiful and we were able to take some awesome outdoor photos before she left. Miss you sissy!

Wedding Season Question!

2010-06-03T11:13:00.000-06:00

Yay! A great question from a fabulous Cheap Chic Momma reader!

Okay, so here's the question I've been asking myself this week..Is it okay to wear a black dress to a wedding that is say, oh between 4-6pm?

YES. Black is not only slimming, it's sexy, and as long as your boobs and butt are in place it can be wedding appropriate! Fab it up with contrasting pumps, or unique jewelry!

Betsey Johnson Calandra. Nordstrom. 99.90.

Chelsea Crew Barbie. Piperlime. 49.99.

Nine West. Equestrian. Ninewest. 89.

Berry Sorbet Luxe Earrings by ClairePearse. 85.

Alba Earrings by Odalisca. 20.

Asymmetrical Hibiscus Necklace by BrittanyChavers. 36.

Wedding season and I have nothing to wear.

2010-06-02T10:14:00.000-06:00

It's again that season where you get to wine and dine on someone else's dime!

Dressing as a Cheap Chic Momma to a wedding can be a daunting task. We can't just put any old cotton crap over our fabulous bodies! There are some serious things to consider first!

Structure? Do you I need it? Probably. Especially if you've had a kid..or 5. Chances are things are probably not as tight and taught as they used to be. It's a must to find a dress made with high quality fabric that can hold body parts in without being too restricting.

Size. I spent a lot of money on a dress last year, but it's too small this year! Whether you've found the dress of your dreams at Nordstrom- but it's a tad too small, or your most beloved dress is a bit too tight under the arm DO NOT force your body into it. You may end up looking ridiculously hopeless. Look elsewhere. But really, don't lose all hope. Do you know a good tailor? If you're willing to spend the extra money, there is a good chance that you can extend the wear of your formerly too tight dress.

I'm trying to save money. Can I wear the bridesmaids dress that I wore in a wedding last summer? Last summer, or last week- Unfortunately, bridesmaids dresses tend to look like, well, bridesmaids dresses- no matter what the bride had told you to purchase it in the first place. "But you'll be able to wear it again!" (Sound familiar?) Have a friend that doesn't hold their opinions back? Ask them if it looks like a bridesmaids dress? Or, ask them if they have a dress that you can borrow.

Can I wear a white or off-white dress to a wedding? No.

Can I wear the same dress to 3 weddings this summer? Sure. As long as you don't mind other woman noticing that you've worn the same dress to last 2 weddings. Don't worry, chances are they won't say anything...to your face.

Is this age appropriate? If your 14 year-old cousin is rockin' the same dress in her closet chances are you should not be wearing it. Unless your cousin is like, way mature beyond her years (and I don't mean that in a slutty way). Keep this in mind: Your dress should not be so tight that you can see your underwear line or the outline of your belly button. And it should not be so low cut that you're constantly adjusting the ladies. AND if it's so short that you're considering a bikini wax IT'S TOO SHORT! The dress should not be much shorter than above the knee.

Solid Embossed Beach Dress. JCrew. 78.

This dress is sweet, and modestly sexy. Pair it with an adorable cardigan.

Silk Chiffon Sophia Dress. JCrew. 59.99.

Got to love the A line! Probably not a great choice of dress if you're sporting the FF cup. But it's a great deal for a great dress that you'll be able to wear all summer long!

Adrianna Papell Charmeuse Dress. Nordstrom. 81.90.

A great choice for an evening wedding!

Anne Klein Wrap Dress. Nordstrom 85.90.

This dress is a nice choice, especially if your nursing or you've just recently had a baby.

Anchors Aweigh Dress. Anthropologie. 79.95.

This is a fun, flirty option for a low-key outdoor wedding.

Ronni Nicole Cotton Dress. Overstock. 52.99.

This dress is such a steal you will be able to afford a pair of new pumps to go with it!

Jessica Howard Tri-Tone Dress. Overstock. 58.99.

Though this crazy cute dress is more grey and yellow, there is white. Wear at your own discretion.

Mom Jeans

2010-05-29T21:05:00.000-06:00

Mom Jeans.

1. Jeans highlighting the flat curvature of the 40+ buttocks. Similies: upside-down-heart shaped-butt. Commonly seen aacompained with front butt. Extremly high waist, and always a crappy shade of blue or black. Usually found in Kohl's or Mervyn's.

"Susie, now that youve had 10 kids, lets get you into some mom jeans.."

Mom Jeans: High waisted and tapered. Nobody looks good in these type of jeans. Angelina Jolie would look like a pile of crap in Mom Jeans.

Thank you Urban Dictionary.

Just in case you are a mother who enjoys sportin' the mom jean, here are some photos of famous people, who are not necessarily moms but like to wear the mom jean. Actually, most of these women aren't moms. Bizarre.

Ah, nothing screams "CLASSY!" like a leopard belt with a high-wasted mom jean! Add extra sex appeal by wearing 2 belts.

These mom jeans barely leave room for the imagination. They definitely say, "tap my ass."

In the world of mom jeans, these would be the ones that one would wear to work. Ku-dos on the leopard see through top. These say, "I'm serious about my job, but I'm also a cougar mom." Pair it with a black cardigan.

Oh Jessica, not again! Pockets around the tummy area? Now, even novice mom jean wearers know better.

Oh mom shorts! These are fancy! These would be even better with suspenders.

Sunshine in Montana

2010-05-21T10:29:00.000-06:00

My favorite baby tutorials!

2010-05-18T10:25:00.000-06:00

Babies, babies everywhere! Is it just me, or is everyone doin' it like bunnies? Even if you don't have a kid on the way, there is sure to be a couple babes that you already know or a few that are on their way. These are just a few of my favorite baby project tutorials!

A super cute baby quilt from Film in the Fridge.

An easy DIY Changing Pad Cover Tutorial from Prudent Baby.

Cute & Easy Knit Baby Hats from Little Birdie Secrets.

Rivesable Baby Bib from Petchy.

Free Snuggler Pattern from Craftzine.

Cute hair clips tutorial from Paperseed.

Nursing Cover Tutorial from Made By The Mama Monster.

Appliqued Tie Onesie Tutorial from Crap I've Made.

Toddler Pants (from an old T-Shirt) Tutorial & Video from Rookiemoms.

Barftastic!

2010-05-14T12:58:00.000-06:00

Strange stuff happening with the blog. I'm sorry if you can't connect via. cheapchicmomma.com hopefully this will be resolved soon!

FYI, I got to spend the morning and better part of my afternoon cleaning out bits-o-barf from Reece's carseat and the back seats...oh yeah and a little bit off the windows. I've only had my car for 3 weeks. Farewell new car scent.

Clever ways to clean out bits-o-barf from the itty-bitty crevices of the carseat:

Q-tips

toothpicks

Febreeze

spray disinfectant

Clorox disinfecting wipes

Don't forget to throw the machine washable parts in the machine!

However, if you're in the middle of a car-trip, in the middle of a canyon, and no where to pull off because of road construction you...

Pull off in a blocked exit.

Strip the kid naked on the side of the road.

Use the only 5 wipes you happen to have with you and do what you can.

Use the kid's favorite blanky for everything else.

Pretend you don't notice that "fresh puke" smell on the kid and on you.

Ignore the dried puke on your leg.

Quickly open all windows and moonroof and make your kid ride naked for another 40 miles because you forgot extra clothes! to their doctor's appointment and pray that they don't take a shadooby because you just used all of their wipes to clean up their projectile puke.

I wasn't that mean. I did stop, and run into an Old Navy and grabbed a suitable outfit for the little naked guy.

Children's Music That Wont Make You Cringe.

2010-05-10T09:51:00.000-06:00

Reece is at that age where he's learning new words and loves to copy his mom and dad. We listen to a lot of music at home and in the car and were starting to think that old school Biggy Smalls and 2Pac may not be as appropriate as say, Jack Johnson when it comes to Reece mimicking sounds and forming new words. Could you imagine, Reece's first phrase, "wonder why they call you bitch?" Uh yeah, me too.

Now, this may surprise the people who know me, but I am not the type of mom to be rollin around town bumpin' Raffi- or any of the likes. God no. I would rather listen to NPR. So I asked my ladies at The Cheap Chic Momma Facebook Group and got some great suggestions for children's music that wont make me cringe. Or embarrass me or my ride.

Jack Johnson. Sing-A-Long Lullabies.

Renee & Jeremy. It's a Big World.

Jackson 5. J Is for Jackson 5.

Barenaked Ladies. Snack Time.

Bob Marley. B Is for Bob.

Lisa Loeb. Catch the Moon.

Now turn up the kid friendly tunes, sit back, pour yourself a glass of wine and let your kid go nuts in the living-room.

Surprise! I CAN bake! Apple muffins with cream cheese middles!

2010-05-07T12:02:00.000-06:00

Last week I was inspired by the Prudent Baby and her recipe for Apple-Cream-Cheese-Muffins. I changed the recipe a bit to suit my tastes and they turned out incredible. Seriously, these turned out bakery delicious good, which is an accomplishment for me since most of the stuff I bake turns out resembling some sort of animal fecal matter.

Apple Muffins with Cream Cheese Middles

Inspired by Prudent Baby Apple Cream Cheese Muffins

Streusel Topping

3 tbsp. softened butter

4 tbsp. brown sugar

3 tbsp. flour

3 tbsp. oats

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

Filling

3 oz. cream cheese

2 tbsp. beaten egg

2 tbsp. brown sugar

1/2 tsp. vanilla

Muffin

1 3/4 c. flour

3/4 c. brown sugar

1/2 tsp. baking powder

3/4 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 tsp. salt

2 eggs beaten (minus 2 tbsp. used for the filling)

1/2 c. vegetable oil

1/3 c. apple sauce

2 apples, grated

1. Combine the ingredients for the streusel topping in a small bowl.

2. Next, mix your cream cheese filling mixture until creamy. Set aside.

3. Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Add wet ingredients and mix until well combined. Stir in the grated apples. I grated the apples with the skin on and they turned out fabulous!

4. Use muffin liners, or squares of parchment paper, to line a muffin tin. Fill 12 muffins halfway full. Add a dollop of cream cheese filling.

5. Cover the cream cheese filling with more muffin mix to fill each liner. Then cover over with streusel topping.

6. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Move to cooling rack and let cool for 10 minutes.

These are the best served warm straight from the oven. They also taste great zapped in the microwave for 20 seconds!

Out for the week

2010-05-03T12:36:00.000-06:00

I had this fabulous post planned for today but alas, life took a hold and I'm up to my ears in last minute things to do before we head to Great Falls for Reece's pre-op today and surgery tomorrow. Wish us luck, and I'll update when things settle down!

Best Mother's Day Gift (That's nearly free!)

2010-04-29T08:41:00.000-06:00

Okay, this is the best mother's day gift that's nearly free! I am totally too square minded to come up with an idea like this, but Dana from Dana-made-it.com did!

I present to you, Dana's Journal Jar tutorial.

If you're still looking for that perfect gift, and have barely any money- or you just want to give your mother something that's uber sentimental this is it!

Cheap Chic Mother's Day Gifts

2010-04-28T11:14:00.000-06:00

It's that time of year to celebrate YOUR MOM. (Hehe, remember when "your mom" was a come back? Katina, you know what I mean!)

These are some of my fave finds that wont make your mom think any less of you and because you aren't spending a whole lot you wont be thinking any less of your mom because you spent too much.

Sterling Silver & White Coin Pearl Motherhood Necklace by BeansInTheBelfry. 35.

Ipod Shuffle. 59. Plus free engraving and shipping!

Mother's Day Gift Set by Red Leaf. 27.

Home is where mom is dish by MudHutt. 20.

Mother's Day Stationary Gift Package by Perideau Designs. 25.

Starbucks Gift Card. Any amount!

Philosophy Field of Flowers Set: Perfume & Lotion. 35.

Amazon.com Gift Card. Any Amount. A super handy last minute gift that can be e-mailed!

Tastebook. Starts at 29.95. Create a professional looking cookbook. You can include your own family's favorite recipes and photos!

Chic Reads I Want!

2010-04-26T09:21:00.000-06:00

Chic reads I want..ha I need! I gotta have these books in the near future. I would buy books all the time if they weren't so expensive! Don't you think new, crisp books are such a luxury? Oh, I love them!

Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day: The Discovery That Revolutionizes Home Baking. Jeff Hertzberg & Zoe Francois.

I've heard so many good things about this book! I would love to start a home tradition of making my own bread!

Handmade Beginnings 24 Sewing Projects to Welcome Baby. Anna Maria Horner.

She's an awesome pattern designer and blogger. Her new book looks like tons and tons of inspiration for the new baby on the way! I Lurve the maternity dress on the cover!

Design-It-Yourself Clothes. Patternmaking Simplified. Cal Patch.

Another book with rave reviews! I am told that this is a must for a beginner seamstress...and well I'm pretty frosh.

Any of you Internet stalkers have these books? I could use some persuasion regarding which ones to purchase first!

Excuse my mess.

2010-04-16T11:54:00.000-06:00

Hello Internets. This past week I've been crazy busy. I'm the kind of person that likes to take on 5 projects at once, and eventually I'll complete them. The past week we have had lots of house guests, cut down trees from our future home lot, went on a day trip to Bozeman... and on top of that I'm grocery shopping, house cleaning, sorbet making, changing sheets and going to a birthday luncheon all before my in-laws get here at 6! Oh yeah, I'm trying to give my blog a mini-face lift too! So eventually- soon, things wont look so messy around here. There will be more updating and enough sarcasm to make everyone jolly!

Montana has a huge pine beetle problem. We ( and by "we" I mean Nick's Grandpa) had to cut down all of these beautiful trees from our lot on Wednesday.

Nick's Grandpa insisted that we take this manly photo before the action happened. Lucky all three of them are good looking so it wasn't a big deal.

Reece was completely terrified throughout the whole ordeal. He had this fearful look on his face that was a cross between him taking the biggest shadooby of his life and eating something that was traumatically sour.

Until next time my peeps....

Awesome handmade toys for your offspring!

2010-04-14T11:15:00.000-06:00

My kid doesn't have a lot of toys. I believe that young children can become overwhelmed and over-stimulated with the amount of crap geared towards young children. (Hey just look at me!) I hide toys, I switch them around, and very rarely do I go out of my way to purchase one for my child. When I do, I like the idea of buying a toy that will hold educational and entertainment value that will last for years to come. I am absolutely in love with these toys I found on Etsy this morning. In fact, I think I am inspired to go out of my normal Cheap Chic self and purchase a toy for my mini-me just because.

Ultimate Felt Food Empire Starter Kit by tailsnails. $25.

So cute! Boys and girls will love playing and sorting with pretend food!

Carina Large Doll by clovergreendesigns. $18.

I love that Clovergreendesigns' dolls come in a variety of colors and genders. Dollys aren't just for girls!

Red Wooden Helicopter by Imaginationkids. $7.

My son has a ton of toy cars...but a helicopter? Nope. This one is bright and unique, and darn-it, I like it.

Wooden Leaf Puzzle by Justthatched. $25.

Learn about matching, master the fine art of eye-hand coordination, and identify leafs!

Natural Mini Maple Toy Car & Camper by womanwoodworker. $10.

How hip is this? It's so cool that I'm having a small flipdown.

Tools by MamaMadeThem. $25.

Not only is this a great deal for a handmade kid tool set, but I love that the mom that creates these toys travels around America in a van with her son putting on workshops.

Commotion in The Ocean Flannel/Felt Board by 1StressLESSTeacher. $15.

If you've never seen or played with one-these felt storyboard toys are great! My wee one enjoys the one at our local children's museum.

Little Bird Teething Toy by littlesaplingtoys. $12.

This would make such a great baby gift! Way more tasty and classy than a plastic teething ring!

Explosive Diarrhea and Other Acts of Humility.

2010-04-09T13:51:00.000-06:00

Nothing quite like starting your Friday morning with a giant explosion.

No, no bomb went off inside of my house. Unless you count the explosive diarrhea my kid had in his crib.

You would think that he would have at-least had the courtesy to wait till after I've had my morning coffee.

I was talking with a fellow mom this morning and we agreed that when you become a mom, or hang out with kids a lot your dignity kind of goes out the window. Come on, you know you've been the victim of going to the bathroom when a kid just swings open the door on you... and you're just sitting there...on the pot...in-front of people you're trying to impress.

Or when you find yourself aimlessly shopping at Target mumbling to your infant like a crazy person. To you, you're talking kindly to your baby. To the rest of the world you're insane.

How about when you leave the house with 2 different shoes on and don't realize it till you're back at home- taking them off? Yeah, wasn't me. I just know someone whose done that. ;)

This one time I was wearing a white tee and holding a pint of beer at a local brewery. My kid knocked my hand causing me to spill beer on myself. It looked as if someone had urinated all-over my boobs. Something I'm totally not into by.the.way. I wasn't going to waste the rest of my beer, so I sucked up my pride and the rest of my beer and pretended not to notice. Ha!

One of my favorites, as in it happens all the time, is when my child totally rips giant farts in public. Seriously, they're so loud and obnoxious that people actually think it's me! I just smile and coo "Oh Reece..." Ya know, that way people can quit looking at me in disgust.

Naughty Knickers!

2010-04-08T17:13:00.000-06:00

On the behind of every Cheap Chic Momma there are a pair of cheap chic knickers.

Gap Ultra Low Rise Lacy Cotton Bikini. Gap. 8.

Cosabella Soire G-String. Cosabella. 17.

Hanky Panky Low Rise Thong. HankyPanky. 18.

Betsey Johnson String Bikini. Nordstrom. 12.

Honeydew Intimates Low Rise Hipster. Nordstrom. 14.

Gap Striped Waist Hipster. Gap. 7.

Not that the occasional 3-year old pair of Target specials never find there way. Ya know, on those "not so special days". No never.

My husband thinks that only cougars wear leopard print. Those happen to be my fave!

Dear God, please say this isn't so!

Seriously? High-rise-thong knickers?! Well, if you're in to this kind of thing click here. ($50 for a 3 pack!)

Spring for the home Etsy Style.

2010-04-07T12:52:00.000-06:00

Gah, I can't help it! Every-once in a while, (well more like when I'm trying to procrastinate doing house stuff or paying bills) I'm wasting time on Etsy. Sometimes I just need to feed my Etsy fetish and this time I'm looking for something new for the home.

Ironing Board Cover by ModernHomewares. 25.

Dark Turquoise Wall Vase & Hooks by OldNewAgain. 22.

Organic Washcloth Set by allisajacobs. 12.50.

Custom Family Tree by cozyblue. 28.

Fabric Bin in Spring Birds by thespottedbard. 18.

Green Hydrangea Bloom Pillow by dedeetsyshop. 34.

I'm really lovin' the Custom Family Tree! Wouldn't it look so cute in a little frame in a hallway? This will be a definite purchase after we know who baby #2 will be! (Yes, my eggo is preggo!)

Little boys in cute ties

2010-04-06T11:06:00.000-06:00

About a week ago I purchased "The Little Guy Tie" pattern from Makeitandloveit on Etsy. I was determined to sew one up for my stud-muffin Reece in time for Easter. I mean, I had like a week. I'm a beginner sewer, as in: please hold my hand because I'm pretty sure I can't do this on my own. Well, nobody held my hand and I was able to whip up a cute "Little Guy Tie" just in time!

The ladies were all over him.

Okay...one more.

What. A. Stud.

Strawberry Sorbet

2010-03-31T16:25:00.000-06:00

About 3 months ago (in the middle of winter!) I had this idea that it would be awesome if I got an ice-cream maker. It was a totally random thought, but I think I was just sick of all the miscellaneous crap in store bought ice-cream. I mean, if I'm going to eat something bad for me, it might as well be made with delicious quality ingredients, not random chemicals derived from God knows what.

Yesterday, at Costco, I finally came across my wet dream come true! A Cuisinart ice-cream/frozen yogurt whatever maker! I'm a big fan of Cuisinart products so I didn't even think twice when I chucked it into my oversized Costco cart.

Ch..ch..ch..check out my first concoction with this brilliant machine! Strawberry Sorbet. So easy and so good! I can't believe I didn't get one of these years ago!

Ingredients:

1 c. water

1/2 c. sugar (or honey, or not)

1 tsp. vanilla

3 cups washed and topped fresh strawberries

1/2 of a lemon (juice squeezed)

While you wash and prepare the strawberries bring the sugar and water to a boil in a saucepan. Once the sugar granuals melt take the pan off of the burner and let the simple syrup cool.

Add vanilla to the syrup. Mix!

Next, put the fresh strawberries and lemon juice in a Cuisinart or blender.

Puree!

Next, combine the pureed mixture and the simple syrup.

Turn on your ice-cream maker and pour in your Strawberry goodness. (Follow the manufacturer's directions for your ice-cream maker.)

I had my machine on for about 30 minutes before it reached a consistency that I was happy with.

I was going to wait for my husband to get home from work, but I couldn't help myself. I had to have a taste!

Drool.

Happy Hour In The Back

2010-03-30T10:27:00.000-06:00

Forgive me for the late post. I've been meaning to update for days but I lost my battery charger for my camera and so I finally caved in and forked over $40 for a new one. Boo. Definitely not a cheap chic purchase.

This is how we do happy hour in Montana.

I was so freakin' excited that it was warm enough for us to enjoy a glass of wine on the back deck while Reece was...

Oh, how I love Spring!

Cheap Chic Momma's Rules to live by.

2010-03-24T11:31:00.000-06:00

Always wear a bit of makeup when you leave the house. Not to be shallow, but when you look good- you feel good. Chapstick counts.

Designer jeans don't make your ass look good. You do. When you take the time time find the right pair that fit and accentuate your shape (in a good way!) then you'll get that great looking butt!

Play-groups aren't always lame. Though, sometimes they are. You need them just as much as your child does. Whether it's finding a group of peeps at the park or taking your kiddos to a program at the children's museum, both of you need some socialization outside of each-other.

Clean house=happy husband. When there doesn't seem to be any improvement of the cleanliness/organization of the house my husband seems to think I've been watching TV and eating cookies all day. Maybe he's right, but 98% of the time he's wrong. Ladies, even though it's been a hard-ass day and your kid has pooped on your like 5 times, try to get at-least one project around the house done.

Chicken nuggets and fruit snacks aren't groups. Sorry folks, don't blame the kids for not liking real food. Blame yourself.

You're the boss. Sometimes it feels like your kids rule your life and you're their underpaid slave, but at the end of the day you've lead the way.

Get Free Mommy Calling Cards!

2010-03-16T10:41:00.000-06:00

from the Rachael Cave mini line.

I love Moo! They're pretty much the most hip printing service on the Internet! And now they're offering 50 FREE business cards! (Click HERE). The cool part about this is that you don't need a business to use these cards. Create some super cute mommy calling cards to give out at the playground, pool, coffee shop- wherever!

Spring...YES it's here! And Liberty of London @ Target

2010-03-15T12:32:00.000-06:00

Aaah, Daffodils! Unfortunately these are not from my garden. Fortunately for me, they're cheap and chic at Safeway right now. (3 bunches for $5!) They smell just like Spring time!

I'm sure you Cheap Chic Mommas out there have seen the Liberty of London for Target commercials and are secretly excited to check out Target's new line of cheapness chicness, right?

It's fabulous. Especially the home line.

Liberty Large Tapered Bin. 12.99.

Liberty Dining Collection. 12.98-21.58.

Liberty Ruffle Keyhole Tank. 19.99.

Liberty Sateen Trench. 44.99.

Liberty Floral Balconette Bra. 16.99.

Loves it!

Children & Dog Food

2010-03-13T11:13:00.000-07:00

Caught in the act.

"uuummm....I wasn't doing anything...."

What is it with children and dog food? Is it that fishy smell or oily texture that drives them nuts? It's not like you've never done it. All of my friends have told me that they've done it. What makes it so darn alluring that I have to constantly keep my toddler away from the laundry room?!

Oatmeal Scotchies

2010-03-11T14:34:00.000-07:00

I know I promised a new post yesterday, but I had some Internet issues, and of course, after getting pissed off at my computer, and then my ISP, my issue was simply resolved my restarting our cable modem. Duh.

Ahem, anyways. Don't these looking freakin' amazing?

They're Oatmeal Scotchies, and they are the first cookie that I have successfully baked in a long time. Now, I'm a great cook- but ask me to bake something and well, there is only a 50/50 chance that it will turn out okay.

Oatmeal Scotchies

(From the back of the Nestle Toll House package of butterscotch chips)

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1 cup butter

3/4 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp. vanilla extract

3 cups old fashioned oats

1 2/3 cups butterscotch chips

Preheat oven to 375.

Combine flour, baking soda salt and cinnamon in a small bowl. Beat softened butter, sugar, eggs and vanilla in a large bowl. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in oats and butterscotch chips.

Drop by rounded tablespoons onto an ungreased baking sheet.

Bake for 7-8 minutes.

Vacay!

2010-03-09T09:46:00.000-07:00

My dear readers, followers and Internet stalkers, I have been on vacation. Stay tuned. Fabulous Cheap Chic Momma posts to follow! (Today!!)

Spring Etsy Finds

2010-02-23T10:18:00.000-07:00

So, maybe I'm jumping the gun a little bit- but I don't care. Spring is just around the corner and I swear I can feel it in the air!

Waiting For Spring by ClaudiaKayPhoto. 35.

Pink Dahlia by NatureMandalas. 24.

Purple Flower by Jennifersquires. 35.

A Spring Gathering by iresuchocki. 30.

Love & Forgetting by lauri. 10.

Waiting For Spring by sweetblue. 24.

Can't you find a place your home for a few of these pretties?

Toddler Pillow

2010-02-22T10:55:00.000-07:00

Lately I've noticed my little guy squishing his blankets into a little ball and laying his head on it. My husband suggested that we should buy him a little pillow- and I thought, "hey, I can make that!"

I've used this lovely, easy-to-figure-out envelope pillow tutorial from Craftzine before and I knew that it would be just perfect for the toddler pillow I had in mind.

I purchased a "travel" pillow from Target for $4.99 and used some green minky fabric that I had from Joann's that I got on sale for about $7 a yard.

Reece love's dragging this thing around.

The past 2 days the pillow has seriously gone with him everywhere in the house.

Including his mouth.

And if you're not crafty you can purchase one of these from frankandme for $18.