Snuggling

It's what we are doing with our days now that everyone has left us...

My laundry solution

Because of Olivia's eczema I have always been searching for a gentle laundry detergent that doesn't aggravate her skin. I never did find it. I did find a recipe for laundry soap that in my opinion has been the best for her skin and allergies.

Laundry Soap:

1 bar Castile soap
1 cup Borax
1 cup Washing Soda

I first grate the soap with a cheese grater than mix everything in the food processor. I use about 2 tablespoons per load. Some people add essential oils to the soap to give it a pretty smell, I don't.

If I'm washing kids clothes or otherwise extra dirty clothes I add 2 tablespoons of Oxygen Bleach directly in with the clothes. It's the same stuff as Oxy Clean without the yucky smell.

Next, I use vinegar instead of the laundry softener at the store. It's super cheap and does just as good of a job.

I've been using this method for a few months now and I think it works great!

Anyone want to share additional laundry or cleaning tips?

Different than I expected

      I was excited for Alaina to go to school.  I didn't realize how hard it would be for both Corinne and I.  When Olivia started kindergarden it was a little emotional, but mostly it was a positive experience.  Her teacher was lovely, she made friends, and she loved riding the bus with the neighbor kids.  I still had two little ones at home to take care of so there just wasn't much time to miss her.

     With Alaina it's different.  First thing, she is only three and second, she can't talk well yet so I can't hear about her day.  Everyone there seemed super nice and I don't doubt that Alaina had a fairly good day.  I would just like to know what's going on in that little head of hers when she has to take a nap for the first time in her life away from her bed and Mom.  I hope as time goes on I don't feel so sad about all this.  It doesn't help that Corinne is constantly reminding me that Alaina is gone and she misses Alaina :-(

1st Day in Pictures

School Starts Tomorrow

I can't believe the day is almost here! Alaina is starting preschool tomorrow. Her school day will be 9-3:30, Monday thru Friday. I really like her teacher and the rest of the staff at the school. Despite that, there are feelings of sadness that our days will be a different without her. Her and Corinne are very attached and I'm not quite sure what we are going to do with both Olivia and Alaina gone. At the same time I'm really happy for Alaina because she will get new opportunities to learn and grow. Look out for a 1st day of school post tomorrow!

4th of July Pics

These pictures are thanks to Brian's coworker Anjali and her friend Nitin who was the photographer.  A nice camera and someone who knows how to use it make for beautiful pictures.  Brian's work is located right next to the amphitheater where the Town of Cary holds their annual fireworks so we had first class seats to the festivities without having to sit in the grass and fight the crowds.  Very nice way to celebrate the 4th!