Season of Survival

I've heard a lot of talk about the "seasons" of  life.  Sometimes, it's a season of survival - a time to simplify and hunker down and focus on accomplishing the bare minimum.  Other times, it's a time of bounty and accomplishment, when you have the energy to focus on new endeavors and get things done.  

Right now is a season of survival for us.  Lucia is constantly getting sick.  With David's new job, we're working on balancing work-home life and haven't had the time we've wanted to make the finishing touches on our new home or explore the area.  We have several friends we've been wanting to have over, but haven't been able to make it happen yet (Lucia is sick every time we make plans anyway).  It's just one of those times when I'm focusing on the basics - the health of my family, getting clothes washed and bellies fed and not much else.  

This weekend, we were able to have a bit of fun before Lucia's latest sickness set it and I was able to try a few new things.  We went to story time at the bookstore and a walk at the local nature park.  I pulled out my knitting for the first time since moving here (never mind the fact that Lucia pulled a knitting needle out of my project after hours of work...).  And I cooked a whole chicken - for the first time ever!  I was proud of myself!  Maybe that bodes well for a Thanksgiving turkey this year? (I think it will just be the three of us, so maybe a chicken is more fitting.) 

The past few days were a great reminder that even when I'm in survival mode, I can find time for a little fun and relaxation and continue to do new things, just on a smaller scale.  A new dish and a walk in the park are enough for now.  But I'm looking forward to this season passing so I can finally open up that sewing machine box!

While I'm busy in my season of survival and a little low on the creativity and accomplishment, let me introduce you to some people who have an abundance in those areas, my sponsors for whom I'm so grateful!

Meet Deanna.

Wife. Mother. Friend. Follower of Jesus Christ.

Adoption advocate. Business owner. Blogger.

 

We are a family-owned retailer (WAHM) here helping families to love cloth diapering, while also having their babies look cute and fashionable!  We sell the hottest brands including Thirsties, BumGenius, Blueberry, FuzziBunz, Apple Cheeks, Rumparoos, and more.  For the past 5 years we've also been known for our Newborn rentals which average $33/month.  Be sure to check us out and get 10% off with code "messy wife".

shop Dream Diapers | facebook | twitter | blog

Meet Diaperpedia.

Change is inevitable. It's the little things. 
Let Diaperpedia help you find them.  Happy baby.

Diaperpedia is an app available on iPhone and iPad for parents, nannies, grandparents, or any baby caregiver to help them find baby changing table locations.  It's free and you'll also get an entry into our monthly contest for $50, $25, and $25 every time you add a new changing table location to the map. Games are fun, but finding a changing table shouldn't be hide-and-go-seek.

appstore | twitter | facebook | website

Meet Blogging for Brett.

Orphan. CP. Needs a mama.
Adorable. So much promise.

Brett is an orphan in Eastern Europe who needs a mama. I started advocating for him through Reece's Rainbow in April 2012 because I couldn't believe that such an adorable little boy should face life in an orphanage and eventually a mental institution just because his legs don't wok.  I'm hoping through this blog that we can find Brett some parents and give him a brighter future in Canada or the USA.

facebook | Reece's Rainbow | blog

Meet INKtastic.

Personalized onesies. Personalized baby clothes. 
Family friendly apparel. Custom t-shirts.

INKtastic is a family-owned business that offers family friendly custom t-shirts and apparel with an emphasis on personalized baby clothing. With a motto of, "If we wouldn't buy it, we won't sell it!" you can rest assured you will be happy with your order along with a 30-day hassle free return policy. Select from a wide variety of high quality graphics, create your own personalized message, or upload your own images directly from your computer!  Top quality products, affordable pricing, one-of-a-kind custom printed apparel. 

shop | especially for baby | pinterest | facebook

Meet Sarah.

Wife to Dan. Mother to Emily & Erin. Daughter of God.
Lover of family, faith, food, and life.

 I'm Sarah, a young Catholic wife and mommy who loves to run, cook, bake, write, keep house (most of the time), and spend time outside.  I'm the lucky wife to a wonderful husband and mother of baby twin girls.  I strive to include my faith in all parts of my life, and I'm excited to share our journey as a newly made family of four - come join us!
blog | pinterest | facebook | twitter

Meet Buhbay.

Personalized art prints. Christian décor. 
Filling homes with the Word of God.
Current, fashionable designs. Witty & fun.

Hi, I'm Amanda, proud owner of Buhbay. I'm a full-time mom, and part-time graphic designer. At Buhbay, every one of my art prints is made with love and warm fuzzies. My art is inspired by my own two kids, and my passion about displaying the Word of God in our homes in a way kids will love, and you'll love too!

shop | pinterest | facebook

If you'd like to be part of the sponsor spotlight next month, 
check out the sponsorship options! I'd love to have you!