Angry Momma – BurritoBuzz

Lime and Lotus Organics: Daily Face Cream {REVIEW}

Published on October 16, 2016October 14, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

I’ve never been one to use a lot of products on my skin, let alone my face, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t think it’s important to take care of it (especially when you’re young) so it looks good when you age! With that said, I was intrigued when I read about Lime and Lotus Organics and their signature Daily Face Cream. So many products nowadays are filled with harmful chemicals and added junk, it’s a wonder they are even allowed to be sold. It’s scary to think about some of the things we put in our bodies, and even though it’s “just our skin,” it is equally as important what we are putting on it because our bodies absorb it!

Lime and Lotus Organics prize themselves on their high standards and pure products using only natural ingredients. A holistic doctor created Lime and Lotus. Her hope was to design products for both her patients and family that were not filled with harmful chemicals. She did it. The products made are free from synthetic chemicals, paraben preservatives, petrochemicals, phthalates, and artificial colors and fragrances of any kind.

I was able to sample the Daily Face Cream from Lime and Lotus Organics which uses “Shea Butter, Evening Primrose Oil, and Virgin Coconut Oil to hydrate and soothe your skin while ingredients like Organic Jojoba Oil, Vitamin E Oil, and Bulgarian Damask Rose Wax help to reduce wrinkles, age spots, and lines.” I have not used the product long enough to note any real improvements in my complexion, but I have been mostly happy with the product so far! The scent is light and refreshing with the primrose coming through which I enjoyed. Only a very small amount was needed with each use, and it was very hydrating. I’m talking hydrating to the point where my skin remained looking and feeling oily even with the small amount and rubbing it in thoroughly. I only ended up applying the cream once a day (instead of the recommended two times a day) due to the oily/over-hydrating aspect. I will say though that when I applied the cream after showering at night before bed, I noted my skin feeling silky smooth and looking fresh when I woke up the next morning. The oily glow and texture were gone.

Application of the product is super simple – Warm up a small amount of cream between your fingertips and then gently apply

Gorgeous woman with flawless sking applying moisturiser to her cheek

woman-with-face-cream-and-jar-beside-her

Lime and Lotus Organics packages their Daily Face Cream in small glass jars, which means they are BPA free! They also offer and 60-day money back guarantee if you are not satisfied with their product. Please visit their website to read more about their products, mission, and to purchase your very own Daily Face Cream. It is also available on Amazon – Daily Face Cream.

You can also follow Lime and Lotus Organics on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, and Twitter!

-Megan

**Burrito Buzz received this product at low or no cost for the purpose of review or testing. No compensation for a positive review was provided. All product reviews are based 100% off of our personal experiences and we never guarantee a positive review.**

Why you need to stop judging parents in the public with their children

Published on September 21, 2016September 21, 2016 by Katie KuceyeskiLeave a comment

Life with little ones.

Unpredictable.

I’m the mom that’s out in public, sympathizing with the parents of screaming children. While my 19 month old son is exceptionally well-behaved in public, he’s had his moments like every child does. Having only one child, I’m able to be vigilant about damage control. One parent, one child. I can usually calm him down, entertain him, or get through our ventures a little faster to keep him content. If he’s really unhappy and going to go into full on tantrum mode, I promptly leave. But add more children in the equation? I’d certainly not be able to control the situation.

That being said, guess what world? Parents need to go out just like anyone else. We need groceries, stamps, we need to go to doctor’s appointments. Just like anyone else, going out is not optional. And why should we avoid going out? If anyone needs to avoid cabin fever, it’s those trapped talking with babies and toddlers 24/7, watching Minions endlessly, and cleaning up mashed Goldfish crackers from the carpet. We need to know that a world still exists outside of our life of parenting little ones.

Just a few weeks ago, I found myself in an odd situation. I was on my lunch break from my part-time job at one of my favorite local restaurants. The table in front of me consisted of two middle-aged working women, also on their lunch break I’d assume. Behind me, there were two moms and several little ones ranging from infant to 3 or 4 year olds. The children were restless, not sitting down, a toddler was taking her shoes off and joining other tables to see what other patrons were up to. My own parenting style wouldn’t allow my children to bother other paying customers, but I was not irritated, upset, or put-off by the children at the restaurant. The mothers there, were obviously outnumbered. One had a leg cast up to her hip. The two working women at the table in front of me were beyond irritated and made plenty of snarky comments. I suppose they were waiting for a reaction from me, as the one small child kept coming over and hanging out with me.

But they didn’t get a reaction from me.

Instead, I talked to the little girl and let her sit at our table for a few minutes.

Children do not come programmed with emotions. And parents aren’t perfect. While children should be taught how to act in public, it’s not an overnight process. This was a family-friendly restaurant, not a place where you should expect to dine quietly or without some small annoyance. I often find myself conflicted about going out in public, especially to restaurants, where I fear that my toddler’s unpredictable moods could impact the experience of other customers. More recently, I’ve gotten over the fear of judgement and just done it.

Our littles can’t learn how to act in public if they aren’t allowed in public.

I think that people forget what it’s like to have children or have simply not been around them a lot. The level of annoyance that I see on a daily basis caused by small children is astounding to me. Most parents, myself and my husband included, are doing the best we can to raise a responsible, kind, considerate little person. I’m guessing it will take around 20 years.

So, the next time you’re in public and annoyed by a child that isn’t perfectly well-behaved, do yourself a favor and choose kindness over judgement or harsh reaction.

Sometimes all a parent needs to get through the day is a smile from a stranger when their toddler is refusing to leave aisle 2 in Target.

When you stop bending your life…

Published on September 8, 2016August 28, 2016 by Katie KuceyeskiLeave a comment

I just saw Bad Moms this week, and I relate on so many levels it’s almost scary…

All of the BurritoBuzz moms know how busy I am. I know that everyone is busy, and that “busy” is just a state of being when you’re in your mid to late twenties. Life doesn’t stop. And if you let it stop, you’re either 1. Dead. 2. Homeless or 3. Eating Doritos on your couch binge watching Stranger Things (no judgement). If you read this blog, you know that I take busy to a whole new level. I work, own a business, write for BB, hike, am a gym rat when time allows and raise the most beautiful, amazing 18 month old (in addition to somehow keeping a clean home). And sometimes, when things come up, I inconvenience my entire daily routine to appease others. I like doing things. If you’ve heard people being termed “do-ers,” that’s me. I can’t sit still. And while I like doing things, because it makes me feel fulfilled, sometimes doing things means bringing unneeded chaos into my life, out of the fear of offending someone by not doing said things.

But here’s the thing: outside of the things I have to do, I shouldn’t be bending my life unless I want to. Things that used to take precedence in my life have been moved to the back burner.

Need a card for a birthday party but it’s nap time? Too bad, we’re going to color a card instead of going to the store. (Aren’t handmade cards better anyway?)

Impromptu friend get together at my toddler’s bedtime? #WholeLottaNope Changing that tiny human’s sleep schedule makes everyone miserable. Want me to go out past 10pm? Also, a big fat no. With a toddler that gets up at 5am-6am, this mama requires sleep.

Want to have a huge family gathering, but it’s hot as shit and there’s nothing he’s going to want to do outside of ripping your breakables from your shelves? Hard pass.

My once feelings of guilt for not always saying “yes” have subsided. Because let’s face it, the sanity of my family is infinitely more important. And while I firmly believe that life shouldn’t stop when you have a baby and that you should integrate them into your typical life happenings, some things are just more hassle than what they’re worth. When life is a constantly revolving door of work, unpaid Uber driving for my toddler and trying to make sure that I at least have enough food in the fridge to feed him, the last thing I should be worrying about is the impression I’m leaving on others when I do or do not participate in events.

So, my guilt? Gone.Thankfully, most of my friends and family remember the days of having small children and understand fully that we do what we can, when we can. We try to see everyone and participate in life, but they understand that life happens and that tiny humans are unpredictable. But to the occasional person that forgets these things, or just doesn’t realize how truly exhausting and long the days are, please forgive us. Our lives are ruled by tiny dictators and sometimes a nap for a grumpy toddler trumps the party that we missed.

– Katie

Moldy Munchkin & I Are Breaking Up

Published on September 1, 2016September 1, 2016 by AmandaLeave a comment

It really is no secret that the Burrito Buzz moms have a love-hate relationship with sippy cups. We try and tell you about the ones we love and the ones that we hate. Sippy cups are part of life with kids. There’s no way to get around it. Either it’s an awesome cup or it leaks and makes you want to smash it into a million little pieces.

A certain company has yet to leave our “hate it” list. Not only do we hate it, this mama bear is pretty furious. I have yet to try a Munchkin sippy cup that didn’t eventually stain a carpet, dump all over my kid or be impossible to clean thoroughly. We have told you guys about it here and here. I knew it was too good when the so called “Miracle Cup” rarely leaked and my toddlers liked it!

THE MOLDY LID

I received the 360 Miracle Cup as a “gift” when two of my sound machines both stopped working and it took over a month to get them replaced. I was thankful that even after a pretty rough customer service experience, they were trying to make up for it.

It is a simple cup with only three pieces that you can take apart. There is one piece that you can not take off though. The little rubber ring that gives it a tight seal is not something you can remove.

Well, this evening I was drying it off and noticed little gray spots. The ring is clear and tightly secured to the cup. I never thought to take it off because you can’t. I ran my nail under it try and a little pile of black junk came out. Gross! I literally had to take a steak knife, pry it away and then use another knife to flip it off. The pictures speak for themselves. It is absolutely disgusting and I really hope my child does not get sick from this.This is the same lid as above, just the opposite side.

Before Munchkin can give their spiel about how you are supposed to properly clean the cup, like I have seen on other complaints, I will tell you that it is always cleaned promptly and properly. This cup gets rinsed, taken apart and washed after every single use. It doesn’t sit around the house all day, nor does it sit in the sink for days on end. Not only is it washed, but it is also put in the top rack of my dishwasher to get sanitized. Or so I thought…

Parents, please be sure to toss these cups so your littles don’t get sick from them!

Be sure to share with your friends so they can check their cups to!

– Amanda

Stop trying to one-up the struggle…

Published on August 10, 2016August 10, 2016 by Katie KuceyeskiLeave a comment

The comparison of struggle. Sometimes, it seems like parents are wanting to complain in a way that makes it seem like one person has it worse than the other. Like, “oh, your baby doesn’t sleep? Well, my baby is teething horribly which is so much worse.”

But I’ve said it before, where’s the empathy?

*Disclaimer: I’m addicted to ecards, which I’ll be using in abundance in this post.*

Why can’t one person’s struggle be acknowledged instead of mulled over and one-upped by another person’s struggle?

And here’s the truth: we all have some kind of struggle going on. Whether we talk about it openly or not.

Even then, sometime I’ll just be in conversation and talking about a difficult phase we’ve been going through. Right now we’re dealing with some major toddler tantrums. Instead of saying “oh, I remember those days!” or “this too shall pass” or “it gets easier” or something uplifting, I often hear things like “he’ll be worse when he’s two!” “wait until he talks more…” blah blah blah.

When our son didn’t sleep, like at all, for 9 months, I got so much advice on things we should be doing. Like hello, I don’t enjoy being sleep deprived. If you think I hadn’t already tried those things, you are very wrong.

So here’s what I’m getting at: it’s okay to identify and acknowledge someone else’s struggle without being upset that they aren’t facing your exact struggle. Sometimes we all just need to talk about what’s going on to get through the day.

A comparison I’ve heard recently: If you break your leg, you might scream that you’re in pain. In response, someone says to you “every bone in my body is broken!” But here’s the thing, the person with the broken leg is still in pain, whether or not it’s the same pain that you have or to the extent that you have it. It doesn’t make their issue any less of an issue.

This idea goes far beyond just parenting, but I’ve never before experienced such negativity and lack of compassion and empathy as I have since becoming a parent.

When someone takes the time to tell me their struggle these days, I try diligently to get on their level, to show that I care about their difficulties. And it’s impossible to always say the right thing, but I think that if we all try just a little harder to empathize we’ll be in much better shape. Our relationships will be stronger indefinitely.

– Katie

My Tiny Little Monarch: Tantrums 101

Published on August 1, 2016July 31, 2016 by AmandaLeave a comment

We love my daughter’s name, but I am starting to question if it was a good choice. It means “Queen” and good Lord, she definitely plays the part! I have accepted that tantrums are just part of our day for the next year or two from what I hear from other parents. She is almost two and a half and the power struggle seems never ending.

Today’s meltdown causes are as follows: milk at breakfast was not delivered in a timely fashion, baby brother was touching empty milk cup, it was time for breakfast and she wanted to play with the puppy, breakfast was yogurt and not cereal, I got out blocks instead of puzzles, her requested water was in fact water, lunch (she just didn’t eat lunch today), and last but not least, daddy left for work. Okay, she can flip out about that one, because I don’t like him leaving either!

It really does feel like the tantrums are never ending, with no way to fix the problem. Let’s face it, half of the time we really don’t know what the problem is.

I have been dealing with tantrums for quite some time now. My daughter obviously has them and I have been responsible for many tiny little ones, who always seem to be on the brink of an emotional breakdown. In my experience, the tantrum stage doesn’t really go away until they are around four. Even then it’s pretty likely that a preschooler will have some pretty regular freak outs.

How do we stop them?

How do we make it better?

How do we prevent them?

First off, let me start with this: tantrums are normal. They are actually expected! If you don’t have a two or three year old that loses it from time to time, then you are very, very lucky, my friend!

Not every tip I am going to list will help. There is no perfect fix or one right way to deal with your toddler’s big emotions! Do what you feel is best for you and your family.

The logical part (frontal cortex) of our brain doesn’t fully develop until we are 25 years old. A toddler physically can’t reason and react appropriately without being taught (over and over). Furthermore, there is a great deal of research that shows it is completely normal for a toddler or any person to have an angry reaction to what they perceive as distress. “Neuroscience has shown there are circuits that are activated for anger and aggression in response to different triggers,” says R. Douglas Fields, Ph.D, author of Why We Snap. “It’s part of the brain’s threat detection mechanism. The key concept is this anger and aggression exists to fight, and exists for violence because we need it.” Until that cortex is fully developed, it’s our job as parents to teach our little ones how to have feelings and what is appropriate. So if you didn’t know what caused the tantrum, you do now.

Where do we go from here? My kid is still on the ground screaming.

It is so easy to take the angry road. Believe me, been there, done that. And I don’t always keep my cool! Count to 5. Take deep breathes. Do whatever you have to do to stay calm before you dissipate a tantrum. If it is the 314th tantrum today and you just can’t deal, then be sure your child is safe from harm and walk away for a few minutes. If you are at this point in a public place, find a restroom, dressing room, quiet corner and set your child down, turn around and clear your head for a minute. If you are angry, chances are you aren’t going to discipline your child the way you should. Not only that, but your child needs you “to be the calm in their storm.” If you are just thunder and lightning to their little rain storm, you are just going to make it 100 times worse. Angry actions are easier than calm ones.

Everyone has a bad day sometimes. What do your friends and loved ones do for you when you have a bad day? If they are kind and gracious they ask how they can help, they level with you,and let you know it’s okay to be upset or they tell you that you are in the wrong and help you get through it. Either way, the logical answer for any type of emotion is never “stop it”, so why would be expect that from a two year old?

Bend down, sit down on the floor or kneel – You need to be eye to eye with your tiny human. Towering over them is scary and intimidating. When you get on their level, you are more likely to have a better outcome.

Touch them – Hug it out, tickles and laughing, or simply put a hand on their arm. Your child longs for your touch. Not all toddlers love being held or snuggled all day (mine would let me some days), but your touch has a powerful part in soothing the situation.

Validate the situation – “I understand…” are your two magic words. Name and validate your child’s feelings. For example: “I understand you want to play. You are sad that we have to go, aren’t you? It’s okay to be sad, I am sad when I have to leave sometimes too.”

Don’t try and use logic.
Focus on the feeling and emotion that is happening. Find your child’s niche to get through their emotions.
Be a role model. Your little one needs to know that it is okay to have feelings. As a parent, you are there to help them through their emotions. A child will never properly learn what actions should go with their feelings if you, 1. Don’t let them have them, and 2. Don’t help them through the emotion.
“Use your words, I want to help but I don’t understand screaming” – This phrase right here works so well in my home! Your child still might not get what they wanted in the end, but they will feel like you care and that you are listening.
- If your child is on the younger side and just starting tantrums, be sure to still say “use your words”, but help them along a little more. Generally, if they are on the young side, they at least can say some words and phrases like “yes”, “no”, “more”, “gstop” etc.

Talk about an upcoming daily event. “It’s almost dinner time, how about you help me get the plates out?” Asking a child to help, whether they’re really helping or not, makes them feel important and generally changes their mood. If they aren’t old enough to help or there isn’t anything to help with, distract them with a new activity.

Let’s imagine that it is time for lunch, you turn off their favorite cartoon and they start the usual tantrum. Chances are, your child isn’t old enough yet to understand the difference between “off for now” and “gone for eternity”.

If the producers of Grey’s Anatomy ended my show at this point in time, I would probably turn red and have my own little hysterical meltdown. Not only does your child not quite understand why, but they physically are agitated and don’t know how to communicate that.

Remain calm. Show that it is not an acceptable way to show they are upset and try to diffuse the situation.
Take a picture. Make yourself calm down first! Insensitive? Yes, probably a little, but remember that no parent is judging you and that it will pass. You don’t want your child to learn that if they embarrass you enough, that they will get what they want.
Get down on their level, make contact, validate. – Consistency! React in public the same way you would at home. Yes, it might be nerve wracking and hard, but eventually the tantrums will be further and further apart.
Wait it out in a quiet place. Find a dressing room, back corner of Target, wherever and whatever works.
Try your hardest not to leave. Your child needs to learn how to behave in public settings. Not only that, but you have to learn how to discipline in a public setting! Sometimes giving in is the easiest way out and sometimes just plain not dealing with it is also, but the tantrums aren’t going away so it’s best to learn to get through them.

Awareness – Respect your toddler. Talking to your toddler like a human is important. You wouldn’t trap your husband in car, not tell him when dinner time was or not let him have play time. So, while you’re doing things, talk. “We are going to the store and after the store, we are going home for lunch.” Children thrive on structure and the awareness of that structure!
Conquer the power struggle by staying consistent. In our home, we follow simple steps.
- Speak once
- Allow child to listen
- If they don’t listen, repeat what you said
- If they still don’t listen then the parent moves.

If it is something like “stop throwing the toy,” then I take the toy and remind her that it is not okay to throw toys, because she could hurt herself or someone else. If the throwing continues, then she goes to time out. We always say “when you’re done yelling at me, you can come back and play” and generally timeout is short-lived. And there are no long term consequences.

Be sure your child is fed and has had water, is clean & dry and has slept well. My daughter is a nightmare if any of these are off. God forbid we eat 15 minutes later than usual. Poor child gets hangry! So, just be aware of the circumstances to prevent a tantrum. If you are running late and it’s dinnertime when you leave the store, then just simply say “I know you are really hungry, I am too, but don’t be sad. We are going home to get some dinner.” Again, make your child aware.
Praise everything! Your child yearns for it and they will work for kind words. Mommy or Daddy being sad can be the worst thing to them and generally they will try to make it better!

Toddler tantrums will happen. Your child is not a “brat” or “bad” and it is not a personal attack on you as a parent and it definitely doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. It is normal, exhausting and discouraging, but you can get through it! Be sure to have plenty of adult time and always remember that each day is a new day. Your toddler barely remembers why they were mad five minutes ago, much less yesterday. Start every day with a smile and stay strong. The tiny crazy monarch will one day leave your home, and you will be left with an awesome kid and a whole new outlook on that mom staring at her two year old on the floor, kicking and screaming ,at the grocery .

❤ Amanda

Bebámour BéBéar Baby Carrier {Review}

Published on July 1, 2016July 1, 2016 by AmandaLeave a comment

Wearing my little ones makes my life so much easier! With a two year old and almost one year old, it seems like someone always wants held. Thankfully, I found the babywearing world when BK#1 was only a few months old. I’ve used so many different types of carriers since she was born (soft structured carriers like this one and the Tula/Lille, stretchy wraps, woven wraps, etc.) When the BurritoBuzz moms were approached about Bebamour, I was very interested in trying a product that I had honestly never heard of.

This carrier is very different than any carrier I have tried. It took quite a bit of practice to feel comfortable carrying my child.

The Bebámour Bébéar Carrier is a 3-in-1 functional baby carrier: infant carry, “single hip seat” and baby carrier combined the with hip seat.

The weight limit is 43 pounds.

The waist band measures as small as 25 inches or as large as 46 inches.

Mesh linings that can be zipped up or stay closed.

It includes the sleeping hood, 2 baby bibs, neck support and zippered Pocket

PROS:

It’s a bright fun color! I love when my carriers have personality, especially when I feel like I wear them more than clothes.

Pocket placement is great. I have been saying for a while that I need a carrier with a side waistband pocket. With most SSCs you can’t reach your pocket if your baby is on your back. This waistband pocket isn’t that big, but great for keys, ID and/or debit card.

Shoulder straps are very soft.

The chest clip straps moved easily. I like to move my chest strap, depending on what carry I have my child in, so being able to move my chest strap easily is essential.

The zip up front panel with mesh lining makes it really nice for hot weather.

CONS:

The waist belt is extremely odd. There is a large hard styrofoam insert inside the belt which is the seat for your child. I haven’t quite figured out why, but you can completely detach the carrier from the waist band so that your child can just sit on the seat. This is in no way realistic or safe in my opinion. Supposedly, it’s meant to comfortably carry your child’s weight but it was not comfortable and the belt sags when the child is sitting on it.

Securing the waistband is time consuming and I didn’t feel like it was safe either. It velcros on and has a larger snap, but that larger snap does not have safety elastic around it in case it would come undone, a feature most carriers have now.

If you chose to wear the carrier without the waistband, the carrier is no longer ergonomic and your child’s legs are no longer in an “M” position.

If you wear your baby in the optional front carry, your child’s legs are also no longer in an ergonomic position.

Read more why the “M” position is essential to baby wearing here !

You must strap your baby to the carrier and then place the carrier to your body. You can’t put the carrier on and then put baby in. Eventually, I got to a point where I could snap my baby in quick enough, but I have quite a bit of experience in wearing my babies. For someone new to wearing their child, this carrier would most likely discourage them because it is so difficult. In my opinion babywearing should be simple, quick and easy!

Be sure to have a helper to put this carrier on your back. There was no safe and easy way to do it because the large seat got in the way and I couldn’t reach the straps.

They don’t have a US website that I could find and there aren’t many resources to help with this carrier.

The Amazon listing says that there are videos on YouTube. Yes there are, but they are all in Chinese. I watched every single video related to this carrier and was able to get the gist of it, but it was not because I understood what they were saying. Along those same lines, the instruction manual that came with the carrier wasn’t even partially in English. If something is sold on an American site (Amazon) the resources should be accessible in English. [I have the English translation at the bottom of this post.]

Using a carrier incorrectly is extremely dangerous to the baby wearer and the baby. The company did email us an English translation, however it should be policy to be printed in multiple languages.

I did not find the carrier to be very comfortable. The weight of the baby is not distributed evenly which resulted in aching shoulders, hips and back. I can wear my children for hours and often at the same time, but I couldn’t wear this carrier for more than 15 minutes with my 26 pound son. The shoulder straps dug in and were especially uncomfortable. Also, you can’t easily bend over, because the hard seat is in your way, rubbing against the front of your hips.

The listing says that it comes with baby bibs for the straps, but it did not. I am not sure if there is a way to order them separately, but they looked nicer than ones that I have had to purchase separately for my other carriers.

All in all, this carrier is a nice idea but poor execution. There is a lot of work to be done to make it a safe and practical carrier for all parents. I hope to see improvements in the future!

– Amanda

Husband & Wife Tells All: Dollar Shave Club

Published on June 16, 2016June 16, 2016 by Amanda2 Comments

I am sure you have seen the commercials and ads on Facebook. $1 a month for razors! I am frugal most of the time, and when my husband told me we could save $30 a month (we were spending on razor blades for him), I was all for it! We started a subscription, and then I realized I could cut out buying my ridiculously priced razor blades, too! My husband and I had an interesting experience with the product, and we want to make sure our readers know what they could possibly be getting into.

Introducing my lovely husband. Drumroll Please.

Hello!

Dollar Shave Club offers three different blade subscriptions, and then subsequently 3 different bundles with creams and lotions you can choose from also.

I chose “The Executive” option. I always used the Gillette Fusion ProGlide Power Men’s Razor Blade Refills 4 Count before and it had 4 blades, so I figured would have be better than what I was using, and it was still cheaper!

Where I work, I have to be clean shaven so I go through a lot of razors shaving daily. The price was fantastic compared to the razors I was using, and I didn’t have to worry about running out since they came right to my door. It was a no brainer.

The first month you get a sample of their creams, your handle, and a little welcome packet. Every month following they send your 4 blades, and a “Bathroom Minutes”.

The packaging is definitely geared towards men, and always has little funny comments printed on packaging.

For the first few months I loved it! Amanda saw how well they worked and stole herself a few, so we started a double subscription.

After a few months I started breaking out REALLY BAD! My mild adult acne flared up so bad, and rash-like bumps anywhere that I shaved. I was sure to change my blade once a week, and was even changing more often. After about a month of trying to figure out what the cause was, I did a little research. I talked to friends who used DSC, and found that they had experienced the same rashes and ultimately stopped their subscription.

I went back to my Gillete and within in days I had clear skin again.

Great concept, and maybe better if you don’t have to shave daily, but the razors didn’t work for me. 3 out of 5 stars. A razor has to be able to used daily without causing issues!

~ Husband

Okay it’s Amanda again.

I was having zero issues when he was breaking out, and I have very sensitive skin. I can’t even use shaving cream/gel or I break out in hives. Allergic to all the things, I tell ya.

And then it happened. I broke out in hives. I thought someone gave me razor burn and then chicken pox at the same time. Burning, itchy bumps! WHAT? I normally wouldn’t take a picture of my legs, and then share it with you all, but I knew I would want to tell you about it. So this is what I looked like after shaving.

This lasted for hours. I had to use some of my prescription skin cream to get it to calm down, and I chalked it up to old razor blade/or razor burn. Two days later I shaved my legs and the exact same thing happened.

We didn’t share blades obviously (gross), we just popped our own blade on, and switched the handle back and forth. We didn’t need two handles. Its not like we shared a blade and then shared whatever rash he had! The only thing that I can think caused the rash on both of us, is maybe the company changed something about the blades or the little strip on the blade.

I am really disappointed because I wasn’t having to buy my $22 Gillette Venus Embrace Refill Cartridges – 6 ct , and for 2 months, they worked great!

If you don’t have sensitive skin, or you really don’t have to shave that often it might be better for you! They really are great quality razor blades, and the subscription is great. There are no hidden fees, and delivery is always very prompt. This company is gaining a lot of attention, and becoming really popular. I just hope they find out what is causing the random rashes on their customers, because it wasn’t just my husband and I.

I give it 4 out of 5 stars if you want to know how I rank it. The name is Dollar Shave Club. I wasn’t expecting a whole lot, but I was really confused when all of a sudden the blades were causing issues. Hopefully changes can be made.

~Amanda

Playground Etiquette 101

Published on June 11, 2016June 11, 2016 by KirstynVelez- www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

Trust me, it’s a real thing and no one seems to know about it. It’s like a list of silent rules to abide by in order to not make other moms and dads despise you (and your child) on the playground. With warm weather becoming more steady, and playgrounds being a great way to socialize and wear out your stir-crazy toddler, I figured it couldn’t hurt to share the (unspoken) playground rules.

It’s a jungle gym, not a babysitter. I know “gym” sounds like “Jim” and it can be confusing for some, but I assure you “gym” won’t take very good care of your child. Under no circumstance is it okay to leave your child, no matter the age, at the playground. Please do not try to give me your phone number and ask me to text or call you if there is an emergency. I don’t know you. You don’t know me. See Rule #4.
Don’t let your kid be a punk. I know, I know, name calling isn’t nice and I would never tell your kid he’s a punk to his face, but I would have no problem letting you know. If your kid pushes, hits, kicks, spits on or throws a handful of mulch at my kid, the playground drama will be redirected between you and I. I mean seriously, its a park. It’s full of fun things, let’s keep it fun.
Stay off your phone. This is my biggest pet peeve and I’m sure everyone else would agree. Pay attention to your child, and not whatever time consuming electronic you brought with you to the park. This kind of goes hand in hand with Rule #1 and #4. Multiple times I have seen parents show up to the park, release their children and find a shady bench under a tree and sit down and scroll through what I’m assuming is Facebook. It only takes a second for your kid to put themselves in a potentially dangerous situation and I’m sure your Facebook feed isn’t nearly as important as the safety of your child. I can’t make this up… 2015 Mom of the Year shows up to the park with her 3 kids. Kids run to the play area, mom sits on a picnic table in the shade 100+ yards away and digs out her phone and throws on some headphones. I’m paying attention to my child and chit chatting with the other parents whose child is playing nicely with mine. Fast forward 10 minutes… Mom of the Year hastily runs over in a panic to me and another mom, and asks if we have seen her son and how she doesn’t know “how this happened” and that she was “checking her email and listening to Spotify”. Turns out this kid is severely non-verbal autistic and he wandered over 400 yards from the play ground and was on the walking path through the wooded area by himself. SEVERELY NON-VERBAL AUTISTIC CHILD. FOUR HUNDRED YARDS AWAY… on a WALKING PATH THROUGH THE WOODS all because his mother wanted to sit in the shade and rock out to the Biebs. What irks me even more is when I hear a kid yell “Mom look at this!” and the poor kid gets an “uh huh” while their mom scrolls through her phone not even glancing up. Come on lady, your kid is begging for your attention. Who cares if you’ve seen them go down the slide backward 99 times before, they obviously think the 100th time is just as cool and important as the first 99. The little moments go by in the blink of an eye, and the next thing you know the “Mom look at this” comment is when they’re handing you their college acceptance letter.
Your child is not my responsibility. Attach this to Rules #1 and #3. If little Tommy wants to climb to the very top of the highest piece of playground equipment, I will most likely belt out a friendly “oh no don’t fall” and then proceed to tell my child that if he ever thinks that’s a good idea, to unthink it. If your child falls face first in a pile of mulch and you’re not paying attention, please DO NOT get an attitude with me because YOUR child fell while YOU weren’t paying attention. My child is my responsibility and your child is yours. It’s that simple. Maybe I should make it a habit to get non attentive mother’s cell phone numbers so when their child is in a situation where they will have splinters of mulch in their face, I can just shoot them a text to advise her.
Unless your child is “5 or under”, they shouldn’t be in the “5 and under” area. This is pretty self-explanatory. If the sign says “5 and under” then keep it that way. Us toddler parents use it as a safe haven from the oblivious-to-others older kids who run around playing God knows what and trampling our toddlers. Yes, I will tell your child nicely to watch out for the little ones and that “this area is for smaller kids”. Why would I correct someone else’s child? Because clearly their parents haven’t told them.

It’s really not that hard. It’s very basic concepts but the lack of common sense when on the playground makes it miserable for everyone involved. My kid cries because your kid is being mean, your kid cries because you’re not paying attention, you’re crying because your child wandered away. It’s a playground, let’s keep it fun.

-Kirstyn

It Could Have Been Stella

Published on May 31, 2016May 31, 2016 by Casey SehmLeave a comment

For those of you who aren’t aware, a tragic incident occurred at the Cincinnati Zoo this past weekend. A three year old boy made his way through a fence and bushes and fell 15 feet to the bottom of Harambe the Gorilla’s enclosure. The endangered male Silverback Gorilla was shot as he held the little boy between his legs. Luckily, the little boy only suffered a concussion and a few scratches from being dragged around by the gorilla and has since been released from the hospital.

If you’ve been on social media, you’ve probably seen that just about everyone has an opinion on the situation. Many people agree that the gorilla should have been killed to save the child yet there are just as many saying the child should have died or the child deserved it for getting into the enclosure. Seriously, people say the child should have been killed by the gorilla. How in the hell did we get here as a society? Where human beings think a child, a three year old little boy, deserves to be hurt or killed by an animal because his curious little mind wandered into the exhibit. I am appalled that people have the balls to say that out loud. Those who are saying awful things like this most likely aren’t parents themselves. Don’t you dare say that your child wouldn’t ever be in that situation because you’re a perfect parent and your child is perfect little angel. That is straight up bullshit.

I am the mother of one wild, rambunctious three and a half year old girl named Stella. Literally, she is one of the craziest kids I have ever seen and it seems to be worse in public. We went to a small local zoo on Mother’s day (I wrote about her crazy antics here) and she could have easily hopped in the penguin exhibit. Though they wouldn’t have hurt her, but she would have drowned. For those that aren’t around three or four year olds on a regular basis, you don’t know how unpredictable they are. So when I read horrible things like the child should have been killed instead of the gorilla, it really hurts my heart. That could have been my little girl. Even with her dad and I right there, she could easily have slipped through those steel bars (the fence he went through didn’t do much to prevent this) and crawled through the bushes to fall 15 feet down just like this little boy did. We also have a two month old little girl so it’s tough to have all eyes on my toddler at every second. Just imagine being in the shoes of his helpless mother. What would you have done had you been in this situation? I know damn well no one would let their child die.

This could have been anyone’s child so to say he deserved what he got or deserved to die is completely disgusting. Yes, an endangered gorilla was killed. Yes, it’s horribly sad. But when does the life of a gorilla hold more value than that of a child’s? It doesn’t.

– Casey

Pickles and Broken Glass.

Published on May 20, 2016May 20, 2016 by Katie KuceyeskiLeave a comment

My typical day is chaotic. From the time my 15 month old son wakes up at the ass-crack of dawn (5:30AM) to the moment that I binge watch Game of Thrones for a solid episode and a half before retiring to bed.

My typical week consists of working 8-5 MWF, shooting weddings Saturdays, sometimes shooting on Sundays, and editing photos all the time I have free in-between. On top of that, I write for this bad ass blog (I might be biased,) clean, grocery shop, do laundry, yard work, and chase my VERY active toddler around. Somehow, I’ve only had one late bill since having my son, and I haven’t caught anything on fire or forgotten to lock the door.

Today is my day “off” from my regular job. However, days with my toddler are infinitely more exhausting (even though better and more rewarding, definitely more exhausting.) This morning we went through the motions of a typical morning, and then after Dad left for work, Lucas and I packed up and went to the grocery store.

I take my son a lot of places by myself, but it’s no less daunting each time. I never know how the trip will go; thankfully, today was an easy trip.

After getting home, I contained my tiny human in the living room. He was instantly like “WTF Mom, I want to play,” and proceeded to growl at me. I quickly started unloading groceries in turbo-speed from my detached garage. I would quite literally rather dislocate both of my arms with grocery bags than have to take two trips into the house, but today was a two-tripper. This means I’m usually carrying at least 10 bags at a time, up the steps of my porch, inside, and stepping over baby gates with all of said bags.

Today I dropped them.

No big deal, until I heard all the glass break and fluid came flying out and proceeded to flood my freshly cleaned kitchen. (Of all the things, it HAD to be the Kosher pickles. WHY GOD couldn’t it have been something I don’t give a shit about, like the soup my husband eats but that I insist isn’t real food.)

So, then commenced my mom meltdown. Groceries to put away, and a toddler that is P.O.ed and needs a diaper change and a snack before he goes in to full-on apocalyptic meltdown.

But today I’m thankful for my spilled pickles (which I carefully picked out of broken glass, washed off, and put into Tupperware.) Those spilled pickles gave me an epiphany that I think I’ve needed for some time. The epiphany to slow down. Just to slow myself down.

I rush so much, and feel obligated to do so much for so many. I love being busy, mostly. But some days, I just need to stop. I need to take four trips in with the groceries, and entertain my toddler in-between. I need to take a nap. Drink a cup of tea. Read a chapter of a book.

When did I stop doing all of those things?

We’ve said it before: you can’t serve from an empty cup. Sometimes we all need the reminder that life is going to go on, and that the groceries can wait.

-Katie

…Not the mainstream mom.

Published on April 30, 2016April 29, 2016 by Katie KuceyeskiLeave a comment

Oh the things I thought I would be as a mother BEFORE having my child… I was living in some crazy dream world.

I thought for sure I’d be the Pinterest moms in the photos. You know the ones: cute matching t-shirts, making all meals organic and from scratch, doing a different educational activity every day while also balancing a career.

Let me tell ya’ folks, I’m not that mom.

As I sit here in yoga pants and a shirt I wore in high school, with a pile of laundry next to me that has no less than 5 other pairs of yoga pants (ya know, enough to get me through an entire week,) I wonder if these supermoms really exist, or if it’s a big facade. (If you’re actually that supermom, just don’t tell me so that I can continue to think this is normal.)

We’re pretty active parents. We both work during the week, (I’m working part-time, and my husband full-time,) and run a business on the weekends. We grocery shop on a whim, clean the house infrequently and on turbo-speed during our son’s short naps, and our lawn looks like it’s battling some disease (it probably is.)

All those things I pinned on Pinterest while I was pregnant, planning to do when my son was finally here? I don’t think I’ve looked at a single one of them.

If I get through a day and have even 10 minutes to myself I feel pretty stinking accomplished.

Moderation. We hear it’s key all the time, but it’s so true. When I became a mother I completely lost myself in trying to keep up and have a picture-perfect life. It’s like I saw bits and pieces of how others parented, picked out all of the good, and tried to be that parent. I had zero time for myself.

And while I’ve learned to balance and make time for my own needs, I’m still often feeling inadequate thanks to the world we live in now where comparison is always glaring in your face (thanks, social media, you cruel bitch.)

My son is smart. Loving. Ornery. He’s exactly what a toddler should be, even if he isn’t doing Pinterest crafts every day and using baby sign-language or whatever the latest craze is.

So here’s the reality: my son is SO well-balanced, and so am I. Sometimes that means that he’s walking out the door with cheerios in his hair, or that the TV was on an episode longer that it should have been during the day, or that I haven’t had time to clothes shop for myself in an eon, and I live on coffee and dry shampoo.

Here I am world, imperfect. Imperfect, but somehow whole. I’m not leading a lesser life because I don’t add up to what other mothers add up to (whether they’re faking it or not. I’m speaking to you Hilaria Baldwin.)

-Katie

Pacidose {Product Review}

Published on April 4, 2016April 3, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

I find it super frustrating as a parent and as a nurse when I have to give little ones medications. Usually, kiddos are already fussy, snotty, and cranky, and then we come along and try to force some nasty medication in them. We cross our fingers and hope they get the proper dose and dread the next time we have to medicate them. This has not been the case with my little experience with the Pacidose. The Pacidose is a product designed to medicate our kiddos using a typical syringe and a pacifier. GENIUS, especially if you have a binky baby. My kids have both been binky babies, so I think that aided in the success with using this product with them. I think it would work for non-pacifier babies as well.

The Pacidose is easy to use by just drawing up the desired amount of medication through the syringe like you would normally (it also works with syringes other than the one it comes with!). Once the med is drawn up, the syringe just attaches to the binky portion of the product. There is a narrow tube going down the middle of the pacifier that then delivers the liquid med. According to the Pacidose, this tube “prevents wasted medicine. Medicine is delivered to the back of the tongue, decreasing the chance of rejection.” I found this to be accurate with my 8 month old. He fortunately has not had a lot of experience with taking medications, but he received the whole dose I drew up using the Pacidose. Once he started sucking on the binky, I started to slowly push the plunger of the syringe until he had swallowed all of the medication.

Here were some other benefits I found with the Pacidose:

– Available in 3 different sizes (0-6 month, 6-18 month, and 18+ month) Although I only sampled the 6-18 month, if I have any more new babies, I will be investing in the smallest size!

– The pacifier end actually feels like a pacifier! I thought this was important because then it didn’t seem as foreign to my little guy. The package recommended putting the pacifier into another type of liquid (formula, breastmilk) and then giving it to your kiddo so they can get used to the pacifier before you use it with medication. I think this would be good if your child doesn’t do well with pacifiers.

– The syringe is easy to read to ensure you are giving the right amount of medication. I haven’t noticed the markings wearing off at all, but I also have not used the product very much. Hopefully they hold up!

– As a nurse, I would LOVE to have something like this to dispense medication to our little ones that come in for surgery. where I work. So often the kids are upset, and they almost always have to take oral medication before and after their procedure. They DO NOT want to take it from me, a total stranger!! This would be great to have in the hospital/doctor’s office setting.

The only downfall I can think of with this product would be that it is not dishwasher safe. Some reviews I have read talked about the pacifier portion falling apart after only minimal usage. I have not experienced this. I think if the product is taken care of properly (not put through the dishwasher); there won’t be any trouble with this. It seems to be of good quality and very well made.

You can purchase the Pacidose for $12.99 right from their site or from Amazon Prime for $14.99. This might seem like a steep price, but I think it is worth it. This product would also make a fabulous baby gift for new moms and moms-to-be! In my mind, you can’t put a price on making sure your kiddos are healthy and happy and this product does both!

-Megan

Let’s get this out in the open…

Published on February 23, 2016February 22, 2016 by Katie Kuceyeski1 Comment

I’ve struggled with writing this post for more than half a year now. Wondering what words are right, fearing the emotions that would come with it, and being utterly ashamed of the way I felt, even if only briefly.

I struggled to get pregnant. TTC (trying to conceive, for anyone unfamiliar with the infertility world,) for 1.5 years. I had a hard pregnancy, where my OB thought my son might come early (too early.) My labor was straight from a dramatic scene you would see in Grey’s Anatomy, where my son’s heart rate was dropping low because he had the umbilical cord wrapped around his neck. And post partum? Sheesh. My son had bad reflux– the kind where they choke on their own spit up and you’re terrified that they could do it in the middle of the night and you can’t get to them quickly enough.

My first week home was fine. No major problems. Typical insomnia, but OH so much love for that tiny human of mine. I cried happy tears, because the outcome of my labor could have been vastly different. I came home with a happy, healthy little baby. I was beyond thankful.

After a week or so I noticed my hormones tanking. I was upset all the time. I was sleep deprived to the point of psychosis. I didn’t eat. I didn’t do anything. I was paralyzed with the crippling fear of keeping my son happy and healthy. He ate all the time, slept on a crazy schedule. He spit up more than he ate. I had lost interest in everything other than taking care of my guy.

I lost my identity completely.

I went from being this strong, independent woman… to being afraid to leave the house for fear of strangers with germs, car accidents, my child throwing a fit in the store, etc etc etc. There was so much unknown.

And while I can say that I never had thoughts of harming my child, I did sit rocking him with tears flowing (often on him,) wondering what I was doing wrong. Googling all hours of the night ways to help him sleep, and feel content and not be so refluxy.

I didn’t want company. I didn’t want to talk, hang, let other people hold him. I didn’t want their germs, their advice, their opinions. I didn’t want it.

My mom helped often, and I went to check-ups with my OB to make sure my hormones were getting balanced out. Otherwise, I’m not sure how I would have made it through.

Dealing with the baby blues and postpartum depression absolutely does not correlate with whether or not you love your child. Anyone that knows me can tell you that my world revolves around my little boy. I love him more than I could ever put into words. I would do anything for him. I need him all the time, and I miss him when I’m away from him for even a few minutes.

But PPD takes over your mind completely. Thoughts become irrational and finite, and looking past the temporary situation is near impossible. There is an immense struggle to adapt, because it all happens so quickly.

Post partum depression is still a taboo topic. If you have a happy, healthy baby… then you should just be happy. But the brain doesn’t understand that. It just doesn’t. And while PPD usually subsides within a few months when hormones level out, sometimes it requires medication and lasts a much longer span of time (a really amazing crusader that has spoken out about her long battle with PPD is Hayden Panettiere. Also, Brooke Shields wrote a great book on her PPD.) Not saying that it takes a celebrity to realize that this is a problem, but I’m glad that a few celebrities are using their fame to open up about their struggles.)

Realizing that there is a problem is important. Letting people know that you need a support system is the best way through it. Go to your doctor and get a check-up. Talk to other women that have had PPD and the baby blues. Get out. Seriously… don’t worry about strangers at Target when you’re waltzing through in your yoga pants, mom bun, and your child is screaming. And baby wear— baby wearing helped me SO much. I felt like I gained some independence back when I started wearing my son around everywhere. It’s great bonding, and allows you to move around freely.

If you have a spouse/significant other, make sure you explain to them how you are feeling so that they know when and where they can help. Take all the help you can get. Make parenting a bonding experience, and try to avoid frustration in times of chaos. This is a learning experience for him as much as it is for you. My husband was a wonderful support. And while he wasn’t always as quick to run to our crying baby, he helped and he really stepped up when I asked for extra support with taking care of our newborn. I am forever thankful to him for being such a wonderful dad.

And lastly… don’t be ashamed. As moms we are entirely too hard on ourselves. We created and gave life, and we’re putting another human’s needs above our own. Most of us have insane hormonal imbalances after having our little ones, so we need to give ourselves some credit. Take care of yourself! You cannot serve from an empty vessel.

I’d also like to reach out to adoptive parents here, because it’s totally possible to have PPD as an adoptive parent! There are a ton of articles out there on this, but here is one that I liked.

If you have a severe form of PPD that leads to unusual anger/rage, I encourage you to get help as soon as possible. There are all kinds of agencies that specialize in getting women with PPD the help that they need.

PPD/Baby Blues lasted roughly 3 months for me. After which point, I noticed my hormones leveling back out. I was able to resume normal life activities, and being a mother finally felt natural. I have a happy one year old son who is my everything. “This too shall pass” was my happy motto, and I’m so glad that I was right. Life has never been better.

-Katie

Munchkin….Fix the sippy cups!

Published on February 18, 2016February 18, 2016 by AmandaLeave a comment

I nursed BK#1, but she was also on a bottle because I worked for a while when she was a baby. So weaning her from the bottle was harder than weaning her from nursing. Like you have probably noticed, BurritoBuzz moms are kind of fed up with sippy cups and their performance. Either the kid hates it or they dump it everywhere!

Seriously, its not okay. I have no idea why companies can’t get it right!

BK#1 would have nothing to do with any type of cup. All of the nipples were too hard or not shaped right. Really, who knows with a toddler. We finally found these at Target! AND she loved them!

BurritoBuzz mom Katie already went in to detail on why the straw cups don’t last (even though the idea is genius – it’s a weighted straw so no matter how your child holds their cup they get something). BK#1 loved it, but it was not worth the mess or the waste.

Back to the Munchkin Click Lock™ 9oz Bite Proof™ Soft Spout Sippy Cup. Again, great idea but poor execution!

It is a three piece cup that is very easy to wash and take care of. The click system is supposed to let you know when it is sealed and won’t leak. The spout is soft, but the child still has to bite down for anything to come out.

Target was always having sales on them and we probably ended up with a dozen before they went bad.

First the click went bad. The little piece of plastic that makes the sound snapped off, leaving a hole on the seal of the cup! Disaster. So those got pitched.

THEN the spout went bad!!

Seriously, Munchkin?!?!

The ones that didn’t leak from the cup lasted about 6 months before the spouts went bad.

Where your child bites down to drink, there are two little holes for the liquid to flow through. Well, apparently they rip into bigger holes and/or the cup is not “bite proof”. I can’t say for sure what happened. But you can see the rips on the side of the holes, like someone stuck a pair of scissors in the hole to make it bigger. INSANE!

We are currently on the Gerber Graduates Advanced Insulated Cup-Like Rim Sippy Cup, and are very happy! No leaks to report.. yet!

I am still slowly throwing out the Munchkin cups as they break, but only using them as water cups.

What are you going to do Munchkin? We thought we loved your products!

Thought….

~Amanda

Empathy.

Published on February 16, 2016February 16, 2016 by Katie Kuceyeski3 Comments

Empathy.

“The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.”

I’ve been struggling a lot lately to understand the nature of competitive parents. I’m sure I’ve done it, unknowingly, or maybe even knowingly. I’m not sure. If I have, I’m sorry.

I find myself really pushing to be understanding, sympathetic, and empathetic lately. But I can’t tell you how often I see parents saying things like “just wait until this…” or “we never had that problem” or “you’re doing it wrong.”

Parenting is hard, dudes. And ladies, who I also call dudes. Why do we have to make it harder by competing with each other? Why do we have to be so judge-y? What is so hard about respect and showing some kindness?

Can’t we just say “yeah, I totally get it! I hope your situation improves soon. That has to be hard”? Why do we have to put ourselves on soap boxes pretending our parenting methods are better than the parenting methods of others?

I have a friend, who shall remain anonymous. (I’m sure she might read this, so hey girl!) She hasn’t slept through the night in a year. I mean, every 2 hours she’s up. Anyone that knows us can tell you that our son has not been a good sleeper either, but usually not to that extent anymore. So, when I talk to her… yeah, I understand. Am I in the same boat? Not often these days. But can I listen, be supportive, and offer some encouragement without asking “have you done this_______?” Heck yes I can. I can say, I remember what it’s like to be that sleep deprived, and it is HARD and I hope that your little guy starts SNOOZIN LIKE A PRO STAT!

So here’s my challenge to everyone parenting (including caretakers,) let’s get on the same level and stop belittling one another. Yeah? Just really think before you speak, or type on some forum where you can hide behind your computer screen. What would you want to hear? What would make you feel better?

We’re good parents. We have healthy babies. There are hard times, but hopefully we can mostly remember the good. We need a little understanding, and some empathy can go a long way.

Here are some smart kids talking about empathy. They get it. Let’s get it, too.

-Katie

I am a Millennial Mom Sick of the Commentary

Published on January 17, 2016January 14, 2016 by Katie KuceyeskiLeave a comment

Millennial is defined by Wikipedia: “Millennials (also known as the Millennial Generation or Generation Y) are the demographic cohort following Generation X. There are no precise dates when the generation starts and ends; most researchers and commentators use birth years ranging from the early 1980s to the early 2000s.”

As a millennial, born in 1988, the commentary on millennials is familiar. More so, the negative commentary. Millennials are categorized as lazy, entitled, spoiled, whiny, coddled, fiscally irresponsible, unskilled, socially inept, narcissistic… the list goes on indefinitely.

I find myself in a generation where we are between a rock and a hard place. Growing up many of us were pushed into higher education, only to come out and be shoved into the conveyor belt of a workforce during an economic recession. I find that millennials have high expectations of life, a generally optimistic outlook, and are willing to work for what we want… even if that means long work hours and minimal pay, benefits, and no option of a pension plan, not to mention the inequities created by former generations between genders and races.

I finished my bachelor’s degree in (the not-so-standard) four years– because let’s face it, when you’re required to take courses like “The History of Rock” and “Earth Science” you’re typically stuck taking a good 5 years to get through a bachelor’s degree. I left school with a sizable amount of debt, but I was more practical about my student loans than many (I went to a state school, had grants, scholarships, and didn’t live in campus housing… certainly saving me thousands.) I quickly got a decent job. I had a small savings account, paid my bills, went to work, paid my debts, practiced my frugality…ate a lot of Spaghetti-O’s.

I got married, to someone I dated for 5 years. After being married 3 years, we had a baby (which we planned for, both in the sense of family planning and financially.) Being a millennial mom is not for the weak.

Millennial moms are an entirely new breed of women. Many of us don’t have the option to stay home to care for children, because financially some of us are monetary equals or more. We juggle caring for a house, children, our spouses, personal finances, all while maintaining an external career from the home (I say external career from the home, because I firmly believe that being a stay at home mother is also a career, and a demanding one.) Even then, women that stay home are often multi-tasking, couponing machines just to be able to afford the basics. And, unless you’re upper-middle class or better, it’s unlikely you can afford full-time child care at a decent organization.

But having a job outside of the home comes with some serious implications. I get my child ready, get myself ready, somehow manage to look professional enough, and put myself into business mode. Do you know how difficult it is to go from focusing on giving your child puffs and their sippy cup, or changing the diaper of a flailing infant, to managing the finances of a company? These things are night and day, and almost require me to be two totally different people.

I’m tired of hearing how lazy millennials are. If there’s a lazy bone in my body, it only exists when my child finally falls asleep for that brief hour I have before I head to bed. Even then, that hour is usually spent cleaning up from the chaos of the day, managing my side businesses (2,) paying bills… and occasionally spent watching Mad Men on Netflix.

I may not speak for everyone, but I know I speak for the majority. I am not entitled, and I have worked for everything I have. If anything, we have a new generation of men and women that are striving to be equally employed, responsible for children and finances, and work collectively to get things done. As women we fight the glass ceiling and stigmas pushed upon us to create something better for our own children, but at the same time… we are still expected to take care of our homes and families. Don’t get me wrong– I think MANY men are stepping up to the plate to help with these tasks, but certainly not all and not always to the extent they should. Being a woman now means doing everything that men do, plus more. I’m not here on my soapbox to complain about how hard I work, but I am here to say CUT IT OUT with the “lazy millennial” crap.

*Steps down from soapbox.*

-Katie

Fight the FLU

Published on December 6, 2015December 3, 2015 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.com3 Comments

*BurritoBuzz is a group of moms that gives advice, and any medical content should be regarded as non-professional advice. Please consult your physician with any medical concerns you may have.*

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I will start off by saying that I am not a physician. I’m only listing my recommendations from the perspectives of both a mother and a nurse. I cannot guarantee that you won’t get sick if you listen to me (wouldn’t that be a money maker!). My hope is that these simple tips will keep you and your loved ones healthy and happy this flu season. These tips come from experience (I have two kiddos and I work in healthcare) and I believe have helped keep myself and my family in good health in the past.

Get a flu shot

You can read more about vaccinations in this blog by one of our guest bloggers about a month ago. No one enjoys getting stabbed with medication or watching their children get stabbed and crying hysterically thereafter. Let’s face it, it sucks getting shots. It also sucks being sick with the flu – fever, body aches, chills, fatigue – symptoms that last far longer than the quick little poke of a vaccine. These symptoms are also easily spread to others. Please get the vaccine to keep yourself and others at a decreased risk of getting the flu. It is so easy to get at most doctor’s offices and pharmacies. Most often it’s free. Your arm will be sore and your kiddos will probably cry but it is totally worth it!!!

Drink water!

If you’re not sure if you’re drinking enough water, you probably need to drink more. According to the Institute of Medicine sited on Mayo Clinic, it’s recommended that women drink 9 cups of beverages a day and men to drink 13 cups of beverages. I know I personally struggle getting in this amount, but I really do try to have my own bottle/cup when I’m at work that I’m always refilling. I try to do the same thing at home. The bottle in the photo is similar to the one I received from my hospital after having a baby and I LOVE this thing. My 2.5 year old does too. It’s perfect because it large, insulated, and clear. I know I’m always getting plenty of water and it’s measured so I know how much!

SLEEP

I know, I know. It is easier said than done, especially with little ones at home. Try to make an effort to get as much rest as you can. Even if it’s not always “sleeping,” resting/relaxing and just letting your body recharge and catch up is a good way to stay healthy. If you have kiddos at home, make sure they’re getting the rest they need too. Let them sleep in when they can and try not to skip nap time. We all need our rest!

Wash your hands

This is a simple task. It’s so simple that sometimes it’s easily overlooked. We all should be washing our hands quite frequently especially when germs are more prevalent this time of year. Wash your hands after going to the bathroom, before preparing and eating food, after being in public places, after coughing/sneezing into them, the list goes on. If you’re not sure, just do it. You can use sanitizer too. Keep sanitizer always on hand – leave some in your diaper bag, purse, in your car, and around the house. Sometimes I just have my little one sanitize after using the bathroom or being outside, but other times a good hand washing is the best. Along with keeping your hands clean, try to keep other commonly used surfaces throughout your home clean too (this will keep those germs off of your hands in the long run!). I love my CLOROX wipes any time of year!

Cover your cough

Use a tissue or cough into your elbow to avoid spreading those germs when you cough. If you do end up coughing into your hands, avoid touching anything and wash them ASAP. Pass these good habits on to your little ones. The sooner they learn to cover their cough appropriately, the better off everyone will be!!

Stay away from others who are sick

This goes both ways. Try to avoid others that you know are ill and being in public places where you could come in close contact with potentially sick people. The same goes for you and your kiddos. If any of you are sick, stay home. Avoid spreading that sickness any further than beyond your own home.

ENCOURAGE

We need to hold each other accountable. I mentioned before about teaching our kids early on about covering their cough and good hand hygiene. We should do the same with adults. Encourage visitors at your home to wash their hands before they hold your babies or coworkers to sanitize after blowing their nose. We have a strict policy at the hospital I work in to wash/sanitize our hands before and after entering a patient’s room. It doesn’t matter whether or not I touch anything while I’m in that room. Germs spread like wild fire, and we need to look out for ourselves and each other.

Along with what I consider “The Top 7,” it’s important to maintain a nutritious diet, regular exercise regimen, and manage your stress to stay healthy and avoid the flu. Even though flu season is upon us now, all of these tips should be utilized year-round as best we can. With just a few easy adjustments to our daily living, we can avoid feeling miserable and downright bad with crippling flu symptoms down the road.

Check out the CDC’s website for even more helpful links and tips to keep your family happy and healthy!!

– Megan

Your shoes are gross…

Published on November 24, 2015November 23, 2015 by Katie Kuceyeski8 Comments

When I was younger, the rule of the house was always to take your shoes off as soon as you entered. This applied to both the individuals that lived in the house regularly (my family) and guests. As a guest, you were expected to take your shoes off, too. We had a small area for removing shoes right within our entrance door, as most homes do. I always removed my shoes upon entering others homes, and when someone says to me “it’s okay, you can leave your shoes on” I think to myself both “no” and “gross.”

I know where my feet go throughout a typical day. They walk through wet parking lots where you can generally find cigarette ashes, gum, and all kinds of other gross things. They walk through parks, through stores, through restrooms. They walk in the mud, and in the pesticide/fertilizer ridden grass of many locations.

As an adult it shocked me the first time people walked through my home with their shoes on. (I try to be a good hostess, because I want people to feel welcome in my home and feel that it’s generally bad etiquette to ask someone to take their shoes off.) However, having a baby changed everything.

My son is 9 months old. He spends his day crawling around on my floors. All day. Every day. On top of that, he has his hands in his mouth constantly.

So yes, when you come to my home, as a common courtesy to my infant especially, I expect you to take your shoes off.

In a recent study, it was found that your shoes are dirtier than a toilet seat. Would you let your child crawl around on a toilet seat? Me neither.

And though this sign might be a little obnoxious and bold, it’s now hanging in my mud room:

Just a reminder, to be understanding when entering into homes (especially the homes of parents trying to keep their little ones healthy.) We really aren’t trying to be rude.

-Katie

Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier (Owl) {Product Review}

Published on November 22, 2015November 21, 2015 by AmandaLeave a comment

Why can’t products that are made for babies/ children last?!?!?!? Seriously, you will be a millionaire if you can make lasting, quality, and affordable products for children (their parents, and their nurseries)!

With this product, I read reviews, researched which type of humidifier would be best for my child, how to properly use it, etc before I made a purchase! I decided that this would be a great purchase.

It was. For a year.

Only a year!

Hello! Parents need products to last longer than their 30 day warranty, and almost always longer than a year!

Pros: Super cute design! And they have multiple other designs! It has a great control knob that lets you adjust the intensity of the mist. The tank is a 1 gallon tank that lasts well through the night and day, without having to refill. When the tank is empty the light turns from green to red, and automatically shuts off when the water tank is empty for safety.

Cons: If you don’t get the tank on exactly the way it has to sit, it leaks.

You HAVE to use distilled water in this. If you don’t, there will be a residue! “Does not require a filter” while that statement is true, unless you are pouring bottled water into this the tank, the bottom portion, and the top of the tank gets real gross, real quick!

I was okay with those problems, because after all it is in the product description. I didn’t realize at the time how annoying it would be, but those problems are stated in the manual.

Fast forward to a year after purchase, and this thing has my DH and I seeing red and in tears.

It leaks….and not just a little…like emptied its entire tank all over my toddler’s book shelf. {We had it placed on top of the book shelf, because there was a plug behind and it was high enough she couldn’t reach the knob}

The first time it happened, we both thought it was his fault. He was adjusting the knob, and we thought it was just up to high creating the water to pool up before it had a chance to evaporate. When we went to get BK#1 in the morning, there was water all over the floor and over half of her books were drenched and ruined. We managed to salvage some, but they definitely were not in the shape that she leaves them in. BK#1 LOVES books! She will sit for hours and let you read to her. She always picks a book over a toy, and she has her favorites! Not even two and our little toddler has a pretty good library going! Needless to say we were both VERY upset! But that’s life, they are just things, things can be replaced. Move on, it’s okay.

Yesterday, we woke up to the same disaster! Knowing I was the last one to touch it, I couldn’t be upset at anyone but myself, and I now know that gut wrenching feeling my husband had before. Examining the situation, I realized the knob was on the lowest setting, and when I picked up the unit more water poured out of the back! That was not supposed to happen! So, it wasn’t our fault! He didn’t have the knob up too high, and I didn’t put too much water in the tank!

This $45 unit has cost us at least $200 in books! Looking at websites again, and I am seeing the advertised pictures of this unit hilarious! It on a book shelf, with books next to it! ummmm DANGER! Move your precious books far away from this book assassin!

If I find a humidifier that I like I will let you readers know!

Do you have a favorite that won’t make me want to cry??

~Amanda

Munchkin Corner Bath Organizer {Product Review}

Published on November 17, 2015November 18, 2015 by AmandaLeave a comment

I will say this, before I say anything else: I usually LOVE anything that Munchkin makes! The brand is a staple in our home! Bottle racks, potty seats, sound machine, baby gates, toys, sippy cups, teethers, and the list goes on of their products that we have, but this thing made me hotter than fire!

Pros: It is large, so all of the bath toys we have would have fit in it! They come in really bright colors, and I liked that because I wanted something to entice BK#1 to put away her own bath toys.

I am going to be honest, those are the only good things about this product.

Cons: It’s really pricey for the product you get. Its not worth $13!!! ! And it didn’t work….like, not even for 5 minutes. It has 4 suction cups to hold it up on the wall. So, I thought, that’s overkill, but will help it hold the weight of the toys! WRONG! Not one of the suction cups would stay on the wall for more than a minute. Don’t even try to put any toys in it, or it and the toys will go tumbling. My DH and I tried everything we knew short of supergluing it to the wall, and we even googled to see if we could figure out how to get the suction cups to stick! Not one thing worked!

I really wish that I would have read the reviews on this product before I purchased this, because they are all saying the same thing. But, it wasn’t a researched purchase. It was an “Oooo I could use this” at Target and in the cart it went. Oh, and I threw the box away, so I couldn’t even return it!

I didn’t get a chance to really use this organizer, but I don’t think it would have drained the water well from the toys. Yes, there is an opening in the front, but the hole in the back wasn’t placed well. I imagine the toys would stay wet and get gross!

I will definitely be reading reviews before I purchase any more Munchkin brand bath toys.

Do you have a favorite bathroom organizer? Contact me or comment if you do!

~Amanda

Teach me how to Potty Train!

Published on November 15, 2015November 15, 2015 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.com8 Comments

Our first born is a little girl who some believe is the smartest little toddler they’ve ever met. For the longest time I believed this too. Don’t most parents? We all want to paint this picture of our kids being the next President, Olympic athlete, or rocket scientist. Let’s be honest, our kids aren’t perfect, and they are more than likely not going to be any of those things. That is OKAY. They have their meltdowns, tantrums, and can be completely and utterly disgusting, that doesn’t mean they won’t amount to anything later in life.

I came to this realization that our little girl wasn’t the brightest toddler ever when it came time to potty train. It’s easy, right? Take her to the potty every 20-30 minutes, give her a prize if she goes, buy her cute new undies, sing a “potty song,” and dance after she flushes. ANYONE can do that, right?

Wrong.

We thought we would get a “head start” last winter while I was expecting baby #2 and we had a long weekend at home together to try to potty train our little 20 month old. We spent two solid days with her barricaded in the kitchen on the linoleum. Just her, Mommy, Daddy, and the potty. The cat wanted nothing to do with our little experiment. We had her wear cute new Minnie Mouse underwear, bought treats, and had the coolest potty for her to go on. She didn’t get it. She peed while sitting on my husband’s lap and didn’t care that she was standing in the middle of her very own puddle. She didn’t tell us when she went in her pants, or that she was wet. Not even an “uh-oh.” After two solid days wasted, we stopped fighting her to do it.

After the “long weekend” massacre in the kitchen, we didn’t push the potty on her. We would mention it here and there, took her in with us when we would go, showed her cartoons about using the potty, but decided we would let her take the lead. She STILL never showed interest.

It came time for baby #2 to arrive in July of this year, and the older sister was still yet to be potty trained. This meant TWO kiddos in diapers, twice as many wipes, and a busier lifestyle to even attempt to potty train her in. How was this going to be possible? Well, it wasn’t. 4 months after baby #2 and big sister still hasn’t figured out the potty training gig. She’s 2 ½ now.

Immediately we think we have failed as parents. How can we not potty train her by now? We even got more serious about it while I was on maternity leave. We had her “parent trained.” We could put her on the potty every 20-30 minutes all day long, she would go, and her pants would stay dry, but the minute we let her try to tell us, she was wet. She can’t grasp having to tell us when she has to go or even taking herself to the potty on her own. It hasn’t clicked yet. She will continue playing in wet pants or pee right in the middle of the bathroom floor, she doesn’t care.

As parents, we can’t help but to get frustrated. We want our kids to be the most intelligent little humans out there. She knows all the words to “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star,” can tell us her ABCs, but can’t remember to tell us when she has to pee? Come on! We get it stuck in our minds that a simple activity like potty training is going to shape our kiddos into who they will become as adults. If they aren’t potty trained by 2, then we’ve failed as parents.

Why was this my way of thinking?

Much like my previous blog, My Picky Toddler, potty training has taught me to accept that I am doing everything right for her and that eventually she will figure it out. Not every kid is the same and some kids just get things quicker than other kids. It doesn’t mean our kid is an idiot. It just means she’s not potty trained yet. She will be when she is ready.

For now, we are still not pushing the issue and we’re waiting until she shows us signs that she is ready to do it. It’s not worth our frustration to force it on her. It’ll happen someday and boy will we be ready with treats, undies, songs, and dances. Until then, I will look forward to the blog I can write about her actually being potty trained!

Do you have any tips that worked for you and your toddler when it came time to potty train?

-Megan

Uniforms in the Laundry {Military Wives & Deployment Part 1}

Published on November 3, 2015November 4, 2015 by The Essential Life 3651 Comment

I wanted to do a short blog series reaching out specifically to military moms. We are a small army (ha) of women that experience a lifestyle that not many can relate to or comprehend. We experience long absences from our men filled with worry and stress. And we also take on a role of solo parenting. We definitely aren’t single moms, but we also have to learn to speak as both parents and guide our children through their emotions and confusion. This series will be focused on letting you know that you are most definitely not alone and that there are many skills and resources available that will help you get through.

My grandfather has been a counselor for a program called Grief Share for many years. I’ll never forget the summer that my family and I lived with him while our new home was being built. I was in high school and my boyfriend (now DH) had just left for bootcamp to begin his career in the Navy. One day shortly after we dropped him off, my grandpa caught me sitting on the floor in his hallway, crying. He immediately came over, embraced me and simply said “I’ve been expecting this.” He explained to me that military life with the constant separation, is not unlike the grieving process. That really resonated with me and helped me accept the range of emotions I was experiencing as normal.

Later, as I began to study in the field of psychology, I discovered how true his words really were. There is a model you may have heard of called the 5 Stages of Grief. It is based on the premise that everyone experiences the stages of mourning and loss in the same way. I think every military spouse and family can relate to this broad spectrum of emotions and thoughts we go through when facing a long separation. For me, seeing my experience of what feels like absolute chaos explained in a way that is logical, to be expected and with hope found at the end is incredibly comforting. I give you…

The 5 Stages of Separation:

1. Denial

Whenever I learn of an upcoming deployment, my brain immediately goes into this protective mode. I’ll tell myself, “Nope. I didn’t just hear that. Not the “D” word. We’re just going to pretend that conversation never happened. Carry on then..”

This is the time when I am the best “military wife.” I say phrases like “Well it’s the military, deployment is a part of it” and “It’s a hard life but you learn to adjust.”

I’m really, really good at the Denial stage. I can cruise in denial until about 2 weeks before he leaves. Yes, I’m making preparations like purchasing items he’ll need and stocking up on the abundance of lean cuisines that I’ll be living off of for the next x amount of months. But I may as well be planning a backyard BBQ.

2. Anger

The Anger Stage irritates me in so many ways but for some reason, I only notice it in other people. Funny how that works. Something about the plank in my own eye. In the anger stage, it’s all about you. When someone is in the Anger Stage, you’ll hear a lot of how “no one understands” and “how dare that girl complain that she misses her husband when he’s just leaving for two weeks!” No. No, that woman is allowed to be upset. Yes, your husband may have been to Afghanistan and you had a baby while he was gone and it was absolutely horrendous. But that should never diminish someone else’s pain. Anyone can experience that debilitating loneliness, no matter how long the separation. This isn’t a game of “whose husband has been gone the longest.”

The Anger Stage is ugly. While you’re in it or around someone else that’s in it. It blows.

3. Bargaining

In this stage, I’m like a child that knows she can’t get her way but is making up crazy alternatives just to try. I say things like “well maybe the deployment will be canceled” or “what if you broke your arm or needed a surgery or something? Could you get out of it then?” It’s a pathetic, pointless segway into….
4. Sadness

This stage always hits me unannounced. For some reason it’s usually the laundry that does it. I’ll be folding a basket and putting away something of his and think to myself “Only a few more baskets and I won’t see his uniforms in the laundry anymore” Yea. Highway to depression.

And then he’ll be gone. In some ways the sadness never completely leaves. In the happy moments, the sadness is “wow, he would have really loved to have been there for this.” In the broken moments it’s “I really, really need him right now. Right this second. And he’s not here.” Even in the everyday moments like “if I seriously have to touch that nasty garbage can and bring it to the curb one more week I’m going to scream!”

This is when deployment is truly like grief. When you aren’t sure what to say to your toddler that hears the garage door open and says “Dada? Dada?” over and over. When people ask you how you’re doing and you robotically reply “Oh we’re getting by!” Because your spouse, your partner, your co-parent isn’t there and the worry that you constantly push out of your brain of where he is or what he’s doing weighs on you daily.

Sadness is the worst.

5. Acceptance

I guess you can say this is what separates the ones that can from the ones that can’t. Because some truly can’t make it in a life that is constant coming and going, unpredictable schedules, worry, trust issues, solo parenting. It’s hard. It’s really, really hard. But this is where the opportunity lies for truly thriving in such a chaotic lifestyle.

In Part 2, I’ll talk about the several phenomenal organizations available for military families to reach out to for support, education, and friendship. There is a unique community that actually, truly does know what you are going through. Please don’t miss the followup blog on several resources to take advantage of!

The bottom line is, it’s ok. It’s ok to feel sad, angry, lonely and even depressed at times. The important thing is that we are constantly growing stronger and closer. If we, as military spouses allow these emotions and struggles to overwhelm us, it can result in tragedy for our personal lives, our marriages and our examples as parents. You are not alone. Making it through a deployment and coming out as a stronger, better person and family is possible. Even I need to hear that reminder, especially during those Anger and Sad days where I just feel like falling to pieces. Let’s move forward and embrace this life that is so important and is not for the faint of heart.

-Chelsea

Read more about staying connected during a deployment in Part 2 here: http://www.burritobuzz.com/2015/11/04/connected-military-wives-deployment-part-2/

Graco DuetSoothe Swing and Rocker Product Review

Published on October 24, 2015October 24, 2015 by Amanda2 Comments

Pros: BK#1 LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this swing! I mean it was the only way I could get her to sleep in the first few months of life. Between colic and being a new mom this thing was a God send! (BK#2 Likes it, but doesn’t seem to fall asleep as easily in it.) It has 6 swing speeds, which is really nice because when they get up there in weight you need a swing with a little more umph.(This swing has a 30lb weight limit!) Multiple songs on the music setting, and multiple noises on the soothe setting (birds, heartbeat, water, and white noise). The seat itself can adjust to 3 different incline positions, and you can also turn the direction that the seat swings! Which was fabulous for our little apartment we were in at first with BK#1. My favorite part of this swing, that most swings don’t have, is the plug-in option! I hate buying batteries! Can’t stand it, and charging batteries is just as annoying. My second favorite part is that it is not only a swing, but also a bouncer. This was extremely convenient when the baby is sleeping and you want to take them with you into another room! Just lift and go, it was fabulous!

Cons: Did you see that there….was fabulous. Last night as I went to place my sleeping infant in the swing, and I found that the swing wasn’t working! The power light turned on, and the music worked, but the swing wouldn’t move. The motor had burned up. I called the company this morning and because I don’t have the paperwork etc. from purchase, and it is barely over the one year warranty mark, there is nothing they can do! Even though they admitted that it was a product defect. It was a shower gift, so of course I don’t have the paperwork a year later! (I registered at Babiesrus and it was purchased there) That is beside the point, a swing should last over year. If this swing hadn’t died on me I would be telling everyone to go buy a dozen of them! We seriously loved it! Sad, sad day! The swing is fairly large, so some people might not like it, but it worked well for us. Also, the vibration on the seat was pretty noisy and might wake a sleeping baby, or prevent sleep.

Overall, I was a little let down. Being a huge Graco fan, I expected the usual high quality product. This did not meet my expectations. Hopefully the company fixes the defect for future products!

~Amanda