All Things Bubba and Toot's

If You Know A Little Boy ~ Squeeze Him

Callie Domingues — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 04:49:59 +0000

Have you ever watched the boys at the park run and jump without worry?

Have you envisioned all of the not so good things that could happen in a moment?

I believe I lived that moment yesterday.

Here is my take on it…

As I was making dinner last night, Bubba and Tootsie were outside playing. This is not so unusual, they like being outside, even if the temperature was close to freezing….

All of a sudden my Tootsie comes running up the front stairs and throws open the front door and hollers through her tears, “Mama!! Hurry, Bubba’s bleeding!!” The look of fear on her face said it all. I ran down the stairs and out the front door in an instant. In my stocking feet I ran across the wet, squishy grass to my boy, that was sitting on the ground, holding his right knee and crying.

As I reached him, he looked at me with the biggest eyes and said, “I hurt my knee!” He moved his hands and I knew that a butterfly bandage would simply not work this time. I turned around and hollered to my husband, “We gotta go!” and he knew immediately what I meant….ER….again.

I will not go into detail, but this is not Bubba’s first time to the ER, twice before he was even 2 he had 7 stitches…again, that will be for another time.

In a moment of record breaking strength, I scooped up my 70 pound, 8.5 year old boy and ran back to the house, up the front stairs, into the house, up the stairs and into my bathroom, without even breaking a sweat! You have so got to love adrenaline….

As I set him down on the side of the bathtub, I knew then that the 20 minute drive to the ER was not going to be a good time. After the briefest of moments, it was finally decided that I would go with Bubba and my hubby would stay home with Tootsie and Bubbaloo. Dinner was almost ready, and everyone knows how long it can take in the ER.

As we drove to the ER, I tried to keep up the small talk. I prayed over him and asked the Lord for peace for Bubba and that this all goes smoothly once we arrive. I even bet Bubba a dollar that I would be the closest guess on how many stitches he was going to have to get.

We finally go to the ER and luckily, there wasn’t single person waiting at the time…the Lord surely knows my heart. I would not have been a very patient mama if I would have had to wait long….

Within a few short minutes we were ushered in to see the triage nurse and then quickly settled into a room. The nurse came in, set up some stuff and within 5 minutes the PA (physician’s assistant) was in the room with us. He took a look at Bubba’s knee and declared, “I am going to need to put staples in your leg.” I didn’t know what to say…staples, as in the ones you use to keep papers together? In my sons leg?!?!?

The PA went on to explain that since we like to bend our knees (for shame on us!) that it would be a better bet to use the staples because they are stronger and are less likely to get ripped out (OUCH!!!).

It was little rough for Bubba, he was really unsure about how all of the local anesthesia worked, even though the PA explained it, worry and stress took over. After Bubba took a deep breath of two, the PA started giving him the local anesthesia…the first few pin pricks were not so good, but once it started to take effect, Bubba was fine. I’m glad, because the PA ended up using 2 bottles of Lidocaine (between 25-30 shots worth!!).

It was nasty work having to be strong for Bubba and watch the PA take care of cleaning this wound….yeah, not a scratch, a real laceration…After the cleaning was done the stapling began. I will not go into detail, but…whoa, it was interesting, I do have to say.

Remember that dollar I bet Bubba in the truck on the way to the ER? Well, it now comes back into play. I bet he would have to get at least 15 stitches, he said, no, 13….well he was about to get a dollar. Because my boy was now sporting 13 staples in his leg right under his knee. Okay, so it wasn’t stitches, but I have to tell ya, that kiddo was a trooper and a half. Not once did he cry at the ER…he thought about it, but not one tear was actually shed…a real trooper…well worth a dollar in my book!!!

Once we were released with paperwork, how to’s and a prescription we walked (he hobbled) in the house almost exactly 3 hours from the time of the incident.

So here is the low down, remember that Spring baseball just started, Bubba has to wear an immobilizer for 24-48 hours, his staples can come out in 7-10 days. Once that is done, we will have to see if baseball is even an option for now. I feel horrible that his first year of kid pitch baseball is turning out a whole lot less fun than expected.

But for reasons unknown to me, the Lord has decided to give my Bubba a treat, okay, not the best treat you could ask for, but a treat as in, more attention that he is getting. A well deserved break for his chores, at least for a short time!

He is resting well, daddy even moved his mattress to the floor form the top bunk. I guess it would be kinda hard to access the top bunk with an immobilizer on your leg.

Tootsie, bless her heart, she was so worried about her brother. The tears poured before I left for the ER…the Lord has truly blessed her with a loving and pure heart. Never mind the fact she can scuffle with her brothers in a heart beat, she loves them more than anything.

All of that being said….I only wish I could say that my 70 pound carry could be done more often, just next time, not with the emergency attached….

Talk soon….

It’s Spring, It May be Snowing, But It’s Spring!

Callie Domingues — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 04:55:54 +0000

When I say Spring around my house the first thing everyone thinks is….Baseball. Yep, that is what spring means around here, baseball.

Bubba started his baseball practices about 2 weeks ago. I know! The second week of February, geez….

I just recently got home from baseball practice with Bubba and it took most of the way home for me to thaw out! Seriously, it was like 40 degrees outside with a biting windchill of 32 degrees! Yikes!! That doesn’t say Spring to me, does it say Spring to you?

So now that we are all warm and toasty back at home, I just realized that there is a chance of snow tonight. Are you kidding me? Freezing cold with a biting wind is bad enough, but snow too? Come on….

Anyway, enough of my rambling….

This is the first year Bubba is going to play pitch baseball. For those of you that might not know what I mean by that, let me explain.

When you are small your coordination isn’t the best (as moms we already know this!), so instead of having the boys pitch to each other, they use a batting tee up until about 4-5 years. After the batting tee, the boys get to play “coach pitch” baseball, until they are about 8 years old. It’s great to watch, the coach stands on the mound and throws the pitch, then moves so the play can happen like normal! This is a lot closer to a real game if I ever saw one.

Once they have mastered the basic rules and techniques of the game, at 9-10 years old they finally get to pitch from the pitchers mound to the batters. Whew boy! I’m telling ya, now we are going to play some real baseball this year! Pitching, stealing bases (YeeHaw!), and scoring, that is what the game is ALL ABOUT!!

This was Bubba’s reply to me after I asked how he felt the first time he stood on the receiving end of a pitch from his teammate, “Ummmm, a little anxious and a little scared.” Bravo for being honest!

I don’t know if I could stand in the batters box and wait on a pitch from a 9 or 10 year old either!

So, as the season progresses, I will share as much about this season as I can. I love baseball, especially when my boy is on the team, hopefully the winning team this year.

Talk soon……

A New Take On PB&J ~ Bubba and Toot’s Style

Callie Domingues — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 19:12:53 +0000

So, as many of you know, I am a stay at home, work at home, homeschooling mama. Occasionally we have the basic staples in the house to eat and I have to revert back to plain ole mama.

Today though, I took one of the most basic staples we have (and like!) peanut butter and jelly and gave it a new twist. Not a major twist, just a little deviation from the norm.

I’ll start at the beginning, I was going to make our other staple, chicken nuggets and fries, so I had the oven preheating up to temp. But as I went to get everything ready to put in the oven, I realized we were fresh out…bummer!

Since the oven was already almost up to temp, I got a chorus of “mmmm, biscuits!” Well, what is a mama to do? Give in, seize the moment….I’ll think of something to make with biscuits, right?

Well, thank goodness for all of those basic staples, because once the biscuits were in the oven, the first thing I thought of was, biscuits and jelly, but not for lunch for all of the kiddos….what to do? Oh! I have it, peanut butter and jelly….perfect!

As the soft and flaky biscuits come out of the oven, the peanut butter and jelly are waiting ~

The bisucit awaits the pb&j

I am debating if this is going to work or not, with biscuits being so soft, flaky and squishy. Let’s see ~

MMMMMM....it looks like this might work!

My kiddos can hardly contain themselves, they act like they have never had peanut butter and jelly before!

Perfect! Want Some?

I do have to say that this was the best pb&j I have had in a really long time! Thank goodness my kiddos are willing (at least most of the time) to try something a little different.

I got rave reviews, Bubba had 3 biscuits, Tootsie had 2 and my Bubbaloo had 1 1/2, not bad for a impromptu lunch.

Gotta love that fact that this was all from the basic staples I had on hand.

Score another great idea for mama! This is something we will definitely have again.

Talk soon….

Newest Items Listed at Bubba and Toot’s

Callie Domingues — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 03:13:47 +0000

Hello Everyone! I am excited! I got some new items listed the other day and I wanted to share them with you.

First I found THE cutest John Deere Layette Set for the littlest tractor and dirt lover!

This is a 4 piece set that includes a long sleeved one piece, bib, knot hat and matching socks. The size is 6-9 months and is simply the cutest outfit I have seen lately for a little boy. Check out this picture ~

Oh so sweet! Let's "play in the dirt"!

How cute is that? You can see more here ~ http://bubbaandtoots.com/catalog.htm?item=150

Or for the little lady in your life, there is this adorable 5 piece John Deere Layette Set.

Trimmed in pink for the lady that she is, and covered in pigs, cows, sheep and tractors for the farmer in her, check out this cute set.

Size available is 3-6 months. A perfect “welcome baby” gift!

The layette includes: long sleeved one piece, short sleeved shirt, pink pants, knot hat and bib. The hat and bib are reversible, a great thing!

Check out this picture ~

Prett in Pink Farmer!

You can find out more about this set here ~ http://bubbaandtoots.com/catalog.htm?item=151

And last I added another John Deere piece, well two pieces. Same romper but it is available in both 3-6 months and 6-9 months.

A sure to love romper trimmed in green and covered in pigs, cows, tractors and sheep! This romper, one piece has long sleeves and full front snaps for easy dressing of your little one.

A cute baby gift giving idea, perfect for baby showers or welcome home!

Here is the romper ~

A Romp, Anyone?

You can find out more here ~ http://bubbaandtoots.com/catalog.htm?item=152

I hope you enjoy viewing the newest additions to my store.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Talk soon…..

Valentine’s Lessons We Hope Our Kids Remember All Year

Callie Domingues — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:52:19 +0000

What do we as parents want for your children? Happiness? A fruitful life?

Don’t we all want our children to grow up to become kind, thoughtful, responsible adults who make a difference in the lives of others?

As parents, how do we accomplish such a task?

Perhaps looking toward Valentine’s Day themes can inspire ways to help our kids grow up into the adults we envision in our favorite dreams for their futures. Can we not spread the important notions honored on Valentine’s Day throughout the rest of the year?

1. Get started by saying “I Love You” more often. In today’s hectic world, we don’t always stop to say “I Love You” enough. It’s as important to say it as to hear it. If we want our kids to express their love freely and say it more to the people who matter to them, it starts with the example we set as parents. So, if we remember to say “I love you,” chances are our children will, too.

2. Make time throughout the year, not just on Valentine’s Day, to do something nice for the people you love. It doesn’t have to be flowers or chocolates, but anything that will make someone smile – a thank you note for a favor done, a donation in their name to their favorite charity, a plate of sandwiches on moving day. Giving of yourself is often the greatest gift. Get your children involved and they will learn how satisfying it feels to do something nice for someone else any time of year. Be sure you show them the gift of an item or action is the best part of giving when it is made without the expectation of receiving something in return. There is truth to the old saying that it is better to give than to receive.

3. Enjoy yourself often. Life doesn’t always have to be serious. Today’s Valentine’s Day activities are often meant to be silly and sappy, not to be taken seriously. Approach life this way and have fun with it. And take your children along with you.

4. Help your children find pleasure in the small things. On Valentine’s Day, we’re happy with a few chocolates or pretty flowers. If our children see life is not all about material items, they, too, will take the time to stop and enjoy simple pleasures.

5. Remember, everyone, male and female, can use a few more hearts in their life. If they are on the list to show our affection on Valentine’s Day, they should be on that list every day of the year. If your kids see you expressing your affection to your loved ones on a regular basis, that will become their example to follow.

Valentine’s Day is a day of hearts and giving. We can help our children make it last all year.

About the Author:

Jennifer Kirkpatrick is a busy mom of two and an entrepreneur who creates and sells unique items for kids of all ages. Visit her online store Pipsqueak Boutique for great baby gifts. And check out her clothing line, Define*Me Clothing for fun personalized kids clothes.

Making Valentine’s Day Fun for the Whole Family

Callie Domingues — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:46:29 +0000

To be someone’s Valentine is to be loved by another. Romantic? Of course, but Valentine’s Day is not the sole property of loving couples. It can also be a wonderful day for loving families.

Here are some ways parents can use Valentine’s Day to introduce new family traditions and create some special memories for their kids.

1. Food is often the way to the heart. How about getting the whole family involved in making a heart-shaped meal. Place a cookie cutter into a pan. Pour in an egg or some pancake batter to cook into a heart-shaped breakfast treat. Using a heart-shaped template, trim French toast or sandwiches into a heart-shaped lunch. A larger template can make a Valentine’s Day pizza a favorite dinner or evening treat. And don’t forget the heart-shaped cookies. Get the kids involved in the preparations, and let them decorate their heart-shaped goodies with pink sprinkles or red strawberries. They’ll love it that much more.

2. Kids would love a Valentine’s fashion show. Have each participant, including Mom, Dad and even Brother, put together an outfit from items found around the house. The only rule is that the models can only wear white, pink or red. Get creative – a silk flower bonnet, a white tablecloth evening gown, a red sports equipment ensemble. (Older siblings can help younger ones who are unable to do it themselves.) Then, invite Grandma and Grandpa to see the crazy ideas everyone has come up with to showcase their Valentine’s spirit.

3. Create a family gift that will keep on giving. Work together to create a jar of special notes — include anything that will make the other people in the family feel loved when they read them (a special memory about a great time together as a family, a meaningful poem or quote, something you love about every member of the family). Work on them individually or together. Then, over the next several months pull one from the jar during family nights and share it.

4. Set up a Valentine’s Day scavenger hunt. Hide Valentine’s treats around the house with clues that lead family members from one spot to the next. This is an easy game to modify for children of different ages simply by setting different levels of difficulty for the clues — little ones can be given pictures and older children can follow written clues.

5. Instead of giving gifts, make “coupons” for each other. Every person could give one or two coupons to every member of the family to redeem whenever they want. Parents could exchange backrubs or a night off from the dishes. To their children, they can give an extra bedtime story, a special meal or treat. Children can make coupons up for their parents and siblings for hugs and kisses, help with another’s chores or a week of taking out the garbage.

Get creative. Put on your thinking caps and you can make great Valentine’s Day memories your family will treasure forever.

About the Author:

Snow Day! We finally got to build a Snowman!

Callie Domingues — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 00:38:29 +0000

We have waited and waited, every time the rest of the country is getting pounded with snow, we sit with our fingers crossed. The last time it snowed was about a month ago, but it wasn’t the “good” snow that you can build anything with….snowballs wouldn’t stick so they could be thrown, and there was no hope for a snowman.

Well, today was Finally the Day!

The truck with the top of Cujo.

Bubba, Tootsie and Bubbaloo with Cujo trying to sneak in to play!

"See the snow, Mama?"

"Wow! Look at all the snow!"

"I am soooo throwing this snowball at you Mama!"

We Finally Got Our Snowman!"

Saying "cheese" with the snowman

He Is Perfect!!!

I had a blast outside in the snow with the kiddos today. It was really cold and it never stopped snowing, but it was all so worth it! I haven’t played in the snow for a really long time. Even though it was freezing, it was a refueling and energizing experience!

I helped the kiddos build the snowman, I had a great snowball fight and was frozen to the bone, but I feel much better than when I went out. Nothing like a good play time to make you fell young again.

Remember to take time to enjoy the little things in life! The kiddos grow too fast, the time goes too quickly and before we know it, it is all over. I just wanted to share the great time we had today, enjoying each other and making those oh so precious memories.

Talk soon….

Bubbaloo’s 2nd Birthday

Callie Domingues — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 18:08:52 +0000

My littlest one, Bubbaloo, turned 2 at the end of December and he was so excited to get his birthday cake and presents!

I wanted to share a few photos with you.

Singing "Happy Birthday"

Trying to blow out the candles with daddy

"Cake, please, Daddy!"

"CARS!!!!"

I cannot believe that so much time has passed, it seems like just yesterday that I was sooooo ready to deliver this precious gift. Now I am in awe of all he has accomplished in his young life. He talks with the best of them, argues like a pro and is in the process of mastering the potty!

I believe that you must stop and take the time to notice all of the smallest of accomplishments as well.

The fact that he recently learned the art of story telling. “I got up, and then, I went to the potty, and then, I got a lollipop, and then, I talk to daddy, and then, and then, and then…..”

Or that he is finally able to eat a cup of yogurt without most of it being all of him!

And lastly, that he loves to say his prayers every night before sleep. That is a great thing!

I thank God everyday for blessing me with a wonderful little boy that is just one of the highlights of my day!

Talk soon….

Suzy Q Designs is Having a Sale!

Callie Domingues — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 17:53:50 +0000

You have got to stop by and see what Suzy Q Designs can do for you.

There is a sale going on now in honor of Valentine’s Day ~ any and all products are 40% off….no matter what you buy!

So if you are looking to update your look on eBay or Etsy, or need a new logo for your website, you better stop by soon, because this sale is only good from 2/7 – 2/13!

Talk soon….

Oh Boy! What a mess I created!

Callie Domingues — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 17:13:40 +0000

Have you ever wondered why you did something AFTER you did it? I have, more than once.

I recently switched my domain name of bubbaandtoots.com over to another server and boy, oh, boy am I having issues! I had so many posts on my blog and now they are completely gone! Yep, all of them, gone. Like I never even wrote them…..

Soooooooo…..onward I travel to try and play catch up with all of my info and posts, and everything else that goes along with blogging.

If you have been a reader of mine and I disappeared for a while, now you can understand why.

I look forward to catching you up on life at my house, it sure has been a ride since I posted last!

Talk soon….