How I Made It Through

Hey Lovelies!

All around the blogosphere, people are doing a year in review. But I'm not. Not exactly, anyway. Don't get me wrong, I've had quite a fantabulous year and Mommy Delicious has only made it that much better. Like when I was invited to participate as an audience member of The Nate Show for an ambush makeover. Sweet!

But as 2010 comes to a close and as this NYC single momma thinks of all the things that I've been through, I get shivers -- shivers! -- when I think of this one thing: how I made it through.

As many of you may know, I did not start this year off as a single mom. But I'm happily ending it that way. Ouch! I'll spare you all the lovely details in this post, but for those of you who don't know, you can read this post about me letting go of the image of portraying a perfect family.

Or this post about Aiden asking where's his father.

But when I think of this post about how things started to come together for Aiden and me, and how we began to settle into our new life and our new family structure, I get super excited.

But these past few months, one thing that has helped me make it through was taking walks. Long walks. I'd strap Aiden in his stroller and just go. Somewhere. Anywhere. Near or far, I'd walk.

Although I am content with my single mom status now, I'm not going to pretend like it has been easy. Because it certainly hasn't. At all.

But long walks have helped me to clear my mind and ponder. On what exactly happened, what went wrong, how I played a part in what went wrong, and how I learned from it all.

I've had to mourn the loss of the image of portraying a perfect family image and mourn the loss of my innocence -- going from that poster "church girl" to being pregnant. With no ring on my fourth finger, left hand.

But that's all right now. Because my Aiden is super delicious. And my life as a single mommy is even more delicious. Just read for yourself.

I've learned to accept my defeats and accept that which I could not change. And I've grown since then. Mentally. Emotionally. Tremendously.

Walks. Long walks.

Sometimes you just gotta get up and get moving.

Smooches,

Sometimes Saying "No" Means "I Love You."

Hey Lovelies!

Most of the time, I'm a total softy when it comes to doing things for Aiden. I've written about this before. As Aiden began to get a bit more independent at pre-school and with babysitters, he [and I] struggled with the fact that he wasn't just as independent at home. With me. Sigh.

Sometimes I feel like it's a constant uphill battle to get him to do things on his own that I know he could do... on his own.

He's fantastic at cleaning up after himself -- putting his toys away, putting his school bag where it belongs, putting his clothes in his hamper, amongst some things. At home, the independence stops there.

When it comes to doing other things like untying his shoe laces or unbuttoning his shirts, he's been asking me to help him a little more than I'd like him to. Yea, I said it. While I would normally love to help the lil man out, as a busy single mom, sometimes I just can't.

So these past couple weeks, I've been getting better at encouraging his independence. When the kid whines while asking me to help him, firmly, but re-assuringly, I've been saying "no" more often.

And it goes a little something like this:

Aiden, no. I trust that you can do this. And not only do I believe that you can do it, I think you're so awesome that you can do this even better than I could have done it when I was your age. So, no. I can't help you right now. But you can do it by yourself.

And so he tries. And tries. Until he succeeds. All by his lonesome.

And then we both cheer and high-five each other. We celebrate his success.

My little speech has worked wonders as my lil guy grows more into a self-sufficient, competent, and independent little fella.

And ever so often, I plan to continue to encourage him with my little "tough love" speech. The boy's gotta learn, right?

Smooches,

Spreading Holiday Cheer

Hey Lovelies!

Words cannot express how truly grateful I am for this community here on this small place and space on the Internet. Although Mommy Delicious has not been around the blogging block for that long, each and everyday, you guys prove to me just how powerful an online community can be.

Thank you.

In addition to being thankful, I've also learned to laugh at many things. Like, Aiden's picture with Santa this year. It was more than a bit more successful than last year's picture. Just take a look.

2009:

2010

Yay!

I am also thankful for joy and happiness. I've come a long way this year, and through it all, I've learned to smile. And appreciate my blessings. And love life for what it is.

So, from my heart to yours, from my home to yours, I hope your Holiday season is filled with laughter, joy, love, peace, happiness, and God. After all, when it comes down it, does anything else even matter?

Probably not.

Happy Holidays!

{As you can see, I totally used Aiden's picture with Santa for one of the two cards we sent out this year. Cheers!}

Diamonds Are A Gal's Best Friend!

Hey Lovelies!

I have always been an accessory queen. From bracelets to rings to stud, hoop and drop earrings, to incredibly unique and fashionable necklaces (love 'em!), I wear them all. I love check out random boutiques all of New York City just to see if I will find a new accessory to instantly update my wardrobe. Heck, I even purchase accessories more than I purchase clothes. And this gal, loves her outfits!

But, the ultimate beauty accessory? DIAMONDS! They're elegant, timeless, and a perfect match for every outfit, transcending all of the fashion "rules."

That's why I love Diamond.com, a great place for a gal to purchase some bling for, eh, herself! If that doesn't scream "girl power," then I don't know what does.

When people think "diamonds," they seem to automatically think "engagement rings/wedding bands." But when I think "diamonds," I think "fantastic accessories."

Although they carry amazing engagement rings and equally gorgeous wedding bands, you can also find bracelets, earrings, and, my fave, necklaces at Diamond.com. You can even design your own custom ring or pendent in three easy steps.

I'm totally in love with this diamond pendant and think that this will make the best Christmas gift... from me to me! What do you think?

I mean, I've worked hard all year long and deserve/want to have something special under the tree too. And I'm sure many of you other fierce ladies out there feel the same way. Am I right?

So today, C is for Choice. To all of my delicious women and mommies, we have the choice to buy our own diamonds and update our own wardrobes. No need to wait for that special someone to buy it for us -- we are that special someone! POW!

Go ahead, head over to Diamond.com to look for that fine piece of jewelry that you've always wanted and stuff it in your stockings. I won't tell anyone.

Smooches,

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Diamond.com, but does not impact the opinions expressed herein.

Rocking Around The Christmas Tree

Hey Lovelies!

One of my favorite parts of the Holiday season is decorating the Christmas tree. This year, Aiden and I went with a gold, red, and green color scheme. I like to get my tree up early so that I can see it for as long as possible, so this year we put it up the day after Thanksgiving (don't judge us!)

Aiden fell asleep before we could finish, but when he woke up the next morning, he exclaimed, "Mommy, the Christmas tree looks beautiful!" The kids' got good taste. Don't ya think?



Of course, my stocking had to be pink. And sparkly. Love it!

The Holiday cheer is all over our house!


And let's not forget the presents. I purchased three presents for Aiden (although they ended up being in five separate boxes), but other people also bought him gifts. So he'll be quite excited come Christmas morning!


The Holiday season is the best! Cheers!

Smooches,

Winner of Logitech HD Webcam C510

Hey Lovelies!

Thanks so much to everyone who entered Mommy Delicious' webcam giveaway. I'm sure you guys know that I wish I had enough webcams to give to everyone who entered, but I don't. Sigh.

All I can say is that I'm loving the community that we continue to build here, on Facebook, and on Twitter everyday, and I'm super excited about the future of this blog. Thank you.

Chosen via random.org, the winner is:
Teresha @Marlie and Me!!!!

Congratulations hun! Please provide me (momdelicious@gmail.com) with your contact information asap!

Smooches,

Rockefeller Center: A Magical NYC Holiday Hotspot

Hey Lovelies!

New York City is simply magical and gorgeous during the Holidays, even for native New Yorkers who "see it all the time."

And while I had a million and one other things to do yesterday, I put them aside, bundled my Aiden up, and took him to experience the magic in Rockefeller Center. After all, work can wait, but memories will last a lifetime.

The 75-foot tree that is illuminated by 30,000 environmentally friendly LED lights was surely a sight to see. I think it gets more and more amazing every year.


And let's not forget the Swarovski Crystal Star that crowns the tree. Breathtaking!


Aiden loved the ice skating. He even chuckled a few times when someone fell down insisting, "they're not being careful!" Oh Aiden.

It's impossible not to embrace the magical feeling and fully experience the season -- even for a native New Yorker, like myself.

Can you see us, hidden under all our winter gear?


Of course, we had to take a trip to the Lego Store because Aiden is a big legos fan.

As soon as he spotted a helicopter and truck set, he picked it up and practically begged for it. When I said that we weren't buying it, he did this:


Little does he know, I ordered that exact set two weeks ago and it's already wrapped and under our tree. I guess he'll be surprised on Christmas. You know what they say, great minds think alike.

The crying didn't break his Holiday spirit though, because when we got outside, he cheerfully placed his donation in the Salvation Army basket that pops up all around NYC this time of year. I tried to get a good shot of Aiden's generosity, but all I captured was this:


and this:


Guess I should keep my day job. But, at least I got a shot of him ringing the bell after making his donation. Sorta.


Afterward, we were off to lunch, and Aiden couldn't resist making funny faces as we waiting for our meal to arrive. Check him out in one of the many shots that I took.


He did manage to smile and say cheese in one shot, which was just lovely.


We had an amazing time. Just us two. And with each passing activity and each special occasion, I'm coming into my own. And I'm learning more and more how to embrace the joys and fabulousness of single motherhood.

Smooches,

Unclutter Your Computer With ChicaLogic's ChicaPC-fix: A Giveaway!

Hey Lovelies!

I like things to be neat and in order in every aspect of my life. Really. And I'm not too ashamed to say that I'm a little anal about order and stability. I write reminder notes on the calendar in my kitchen AND in my blackberry AND on little post-it notes that I carry in my purse. Yea... I'm THAT girl. But it works for me.

Heck, even Aiden is in on the madness! He cleans up all of his toys (most of the time!) and puts them back where they belong; puts his shoes, hat, coat, etc where they belong; AND he knows what items in our house are "just decorations" or "not a toy," and thus, off limits.

I even like to extend the neatness to my computer and hard-drive. So when I was given the opportunity to review ChicaPC-fix from ChicaLogic, I jumped at the opportunity!

What is ChicaLogic? I'm glad you asked.

Designed by women and made specially for women, ChicaLogic is a user-friendly online resource for those in need of technological solutions... fast.

ChicaLogic's first software, ChicaPC-fix optimizes your computer by cleaning out the clutter and repairing errors that causes your PC to run slowly. It also prevents system failures and will have your computer running like new within a few minutes.

Fast and easy? Sign me up!

I recently purchased a new MacBook Air (love it!), because I had my old laptop for over six years. Can you believe it? Yea, me neither. And I thought that my old laptop would be the perfect way to test out the ChicaPC-fix.

My review? Love it! It really is like "one-click shopping" to improved performance. I thought it was time to say "Rest In Peace" and "It was nice knowing ya" to my old computer. Enter ChicaPC-fix. Now, it's running faster because of this software removed the clutter.

And there you have it. Neat and in order. In every aspect of my life.

I am so happy to be able to offer twenty (20) of my readers the ChicaPC-fix One Year License/Activation Key (valued at $29.95).

Want one? All you have to do is leave a comment saying what you like about the ChicaLogic's ChicaPC-fix and it's YOURS!

I'll send it right over to you. Just be sure to provide me with your email address so that I can send it on over.

Smooches,

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by ChicaLogic. In addition, I received a ChicaPC-fix One Year License/Activation Key for review. Neither impacts the opinions expressed herein.

The Winner Takes All -- Build-A-Bear Workshop and Shutterfly Winners!

Hey Lovelies!

Thanks so much to all who entered Mommy Delicious' last two giveaways! I love the community that we continue to build at this little place and space on the Internet, and I love it when I get the opportunity to say thank you to my readers.

So even though everyone cannot win... thank you, thank you, thank you. For your overwhelming and continued support, and for joining me as Mommy Delicious grows into something wonderful, thank you.

Now, enough with all that mushy stuff. Here are the winners!

Build-A-Bear Workshop $25 gift card: New York Chica

Shutterfly $30 gift certificate: YUMMmama!

Congratulations to you both! Please respond by providing me with your contact information.

Smooches,

Giveaway: Logitech HD Webcam C510

Hey Lovelies!

I have some really interesting posts planned in my head, but the problem is that I haven't exactly had the time to get 'em down on this blog. What can I say, it's finals week and it's only Tuesday and I've got a long week ahead of me. Damn you, grad school! (Just kidding.)

In the meantime, why do you enjoy this giveaway.

A few weeks ago, I attended a Logitech Evening At The Spa event at a private loft in Tribeca here in NYC. It was so dope! And you can read all about the dopeness over at The Prissy Mommy Reviews & Giveaways.

After the event, I was able to host a giveaway of the Logitech HD Pro Webcam C910 of which the lucky winner was the awesome Alex of Mommy Glow. Check out her first VLOG (video blog)!

Well, I saved another webcam for this week.

The Logitech HD Webcam C510 is for the mom who is constantly on-the-go and wants her webcam in tow. It has a fold-and-go design to easily fit into your purse or pocket. Also, it offers 8-megapixel snapshots and one-click uploads to Facebook and YouTube. Nice, huh? But wait, there's more. This portable webcam has a 360 full-rotation that allows you to include even more people on your video calls and recordings.

You can purchase your Logitech HD Webcam C510 at their website, or you can win one here.

1 (one) lucky reader will win their very own Logitech HD Webcam C510 (valued at $59.99).

Here are the deets:

As some of you may know, Mommy Delicious is now on Facebook! And what better way to test out that "one-click upload to Facebook" feature than by testing it out on the Mommy Delicious Facebook Page?

Mandatory Entry

• Join the community by "liking" Mommy Delicious on Facebook and leave a comment below letting me know that you did
• If you are already apart of the community, leave a comment letting me know that you would like to win

Extra Entries:

• Share this giveaway post with your Facebook friends (up to ONCE per day) linking back to this post. Make sure you leave a comment below (with a link to your Facebook post) each time you share this with your Facebook friends. ~ 1 entry per shared FB post.
• Follow this blog via Google Friends Connect and leave a comment saying that you are a follower. ~ 1 entry
• Follow Mommy Delicious on Twitter. ~ 1 entry
• Share this post on Twitter. Make sure you @MommyDelicious. ~ 1 entry

Rules:

• You MUST complete the mandatory entry before completing the extra entries
• Leave each "extra entry" in a separate comment so that it can be counted
• Leave an email address so that I can contact you if you win
• Valid for US addresses only
• 1 (one) eligible entry will be chosen via random.org
• Once selected, the winner has 48 hours to respond

THE DEADLINE FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19TH!

Good luck!

Smooches,

Disclaimer: Mommy Delicious also received a Logitech HD Webcam C510. No other compensation was provided.

Weekend Reads

Hey Lovelies!

Here are a couple good reads for this week's link roundup.

Found the perfect gift for that special someone who lives afar? Great! But don't spend a cent for shipping it! Mom Finds has 25 sites that'll ship your gift for free.

For those of you who have several Holiday parties to attend this season, don't forget the hostess! Shiny Brite compiled a list of great gift ideas that'll make the party hostess just l-o-v-e you.

There's still time to enter Mommy Delicious' Build-A-Bear Workshop giveaway for a chance to win a $25 gift card.

Also... don't forget about Mommy Delicious' Shutterfly giveaway for a chance to win a $30 gift certificate.

Smooches,

Am I Really Enough?

Since venturing into my role as a single mother, I must admit that it's been no easy task. But I knew that already. I knew that it would be hard before I decided to become a single mother, which is one thing that kept me for so long from plunging into this new role.

However, one thing that I didn't know is just how much I would struggle with the thought of being a single mother and parenting my baby Aiden, well, solo. I didn't know how much I would feel as though Aiden was being deprived by not having two parents who live together. I didn't know that I would feel this overwhelming sense to overcompensate for the, eh, absent parent. I didn't know that I would constantly ask myself the question, am I really enough?

But here I am -- a single mother. And what's done is done, so I cannot do anything about that.

But what I can do is really remember that, as a single mother, I'm a mother first. I just happen to be single.

And instead of focusing on the "single" part of it -- Will Aiden be deprived of love? Will he suffer tremendously? -- I decided to focus on the "mother" part of it. For instance, I love the fact that each and every day I have the chance to help Aiden grow into a capable and competent adult. I love the fact that each and every day he has the chance to really contribute to our new family structure, be it cleaning up his toys or "helping" me with dinner. I love the fact that it'll help him develop his own sense of self-worth and self-esteem.

I mean, it's called "single mom" and not "double mom" for a reason, right? I refuse to believe anything other than I am enough. One, single, capable, compassionate, loving parent can most definitely be enough to help a child grow into a competent, capable, and socially conscious adult. Plus, it's gotta be better for Aiden to live in a happy and peaceful home instead of a not-so-happy and slightly dysfunctional one.

So... when his dad doesn't show up to important events, I have to believe that I am enough.

When I am beyond exhausted and stressed out, I'm still enough. Just a lil tired.

When I have no one else to pass him off to, yes, I'm enough.

I may not know how to throw a football or enjoy all of the rough-and-tumble play that Aiden loves all the time, but like I said before, and I'll happily say it again, having one, single, capable, compassionate, loving mother does more good to Aiden than living in a not-so-happy and slightly dysfunctional two-parent household. Point blank. Period.

So yea... I. Am. Enough.

GIVEAWAY! Win a $30 Gift Certificate to Shutterfly!

Hey Lovelies!

Earlier this week, I wrote a post regarding my plans to order this year's Holiday Cards from Shutterfly. Well, I ordered them. Yay! Now I'm excitingly awaiting their arrival so that I can share all of the cuteness with you.

In the meantime, why don't you just enjoy the chance to win a $30 gift certificate from Shutterfly.com. Shutterfly's photobooks, cards, stationary, and calendars make for GREAT Holiday gifts and/or keepsake items. AND... if you already ordered your Holiday cards, you can use the gift certificate at a different time because it doesn't expire. SWEET!

Here are the deets:

1 (one) lucky follower of Mommy Delicious will receive a$30 gift certificate from Shutterfly.com.

Mandatory Entry:

• Follow this blog via Google Friends Connect, check out this post, and leave a comment saying what you love about sending Holiday Photos
  
• If you are already a follower, check out this post, and leave a comment saying what you love about sending Holiday Photos
  

Extra Entries:

• Follow @MommyDelicious on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway (make sure to @Mommy Delicious in your tweet). ~ 1 entry
• "Like" Mommy Delicious on Facebook. ~ 1 entry
• If you own a blog, write a post about this giveaway and link it back to this post. ~ 2 entries.

Rules:

• You MUST complete the mandatory entry before completing the extra entries.
• Leave each "extra entry" in a separate comment so that it can be counted.
• You don't have to own a blog to follow Mommy Delicious and enter to win.
• Valid for US addresses only
• 1 (one) eligible entry will be randomly chosen as the winner via random.org
• PLEASE, PLEASE, PUH-LEASE provide me with your email address so that I know how to contact you if you win
• The winner has 48 hours to respond then another winner will be chosen
  

THE DEADLINE FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS WEDNESDAY DECEMBER, 15TH!

Good luck!!!

Smooches,

Disclaimer: Mommy Delicious was not paid for this post.

GIVEAWAY: Build-A-Bear Workshop Gives to Toys For Tots... And Gives You A $25 Gift Card

Hey Lovelies!

I have to admit this: I hate the cold weather. Don't get me wrong, although I think there is something magical about that first NYC snowfall and the crisp air during the Holidays, it stops there. After January 2nd, the cold weather is just not my cup of tea, which is exactly what I need in order to keep warm.

But, like I said, there is something amazing about the Holiday season. And perhaps that amazingness starts with the spirit of giving.

This weekend, Aiden and I had the honor of attending The Build-A-Bear Workshop Toys for Tots Holiday Giving Gather at the Build-A-Bear Workshop headquarters in NYC. Each Holiday season, Build-A-Bear Workshop gives generously to the U.S. Marine Corps Toys For Tots program. And this year was no different.

Upon arrival, Aiden and I were greeted by Bearemy, the cutest (and largest!) teddy ever. Aiden was a bit skeptical at first, but then he totally embraced all of the hugs. And love.

Children were able to receive a mini-lesson on helping others this Holiday season from a local community service leader and the 2010 Build-A-Bear Workshop Huggable Hero, Jourdan Urbach.


As one of the country's top youth philanthropists, Jourdan Urbach is the founder and director of Children Helping Children, an organization that raises funds to research and eradicate neurological diseases. We could all learn a thing or two from him!

And whoa, did Aiden learn! After making a bear for children in need of a teddy bear hug, Aiden was happy to be a good helper, and couldn't place the bear in the bin fast enough. I was one proud mama! Here we are with the U.S. Marine Corps after Aiden placed the bear he made in the bin. Love this!

I mean, even at this tender age, he can learn to be thankful for all of his blessings and that giving is the magic of the season. We even spent the remainder of the weekend collecting our gently used coats, which we donated to NY Cares, and our gently used clothing and shoes, which Goodwill is picking up this week. That's how we have a helping holiday and he's learning that, sometimes 'tis better to give than to receive.

Now... about the GIVEAWAY!

1 (one) lucky follower of Mommy Delicious will receive a $25 Build-A-Bear Gift Card! Here's how to enter the giveaway:

Mandatory Entry:

• Follow this blog via Google Friends Connect and leave a comment saying that you are a new follower and how your family has a "helping holiday"
• If you are already a follower, leave a comment saying how your family has a "helping holiday"

Extra Entries:

• Follow @MommyDelicious on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway. ~ 1 entry
• "Like" Mommy Delicious on Facebook. ~ 1 entry
• If you own a blog, write a post about this giveaway and link it back to this post. ~ 2 entries.

Rules:

• You MUST complete the mandatory entry before completing the extra entries.
• Leave each "extra entry" in a separate comment so that it can be counted.
• You don't have to own a blog to follow Mommy Delicious and enter to win.
• Valid for US addresses only
• 1 (one) eligible entry will be randomly chosen as the winner via random.org
  

THE DEADLINE FOR THIS GIVEAWAY IS SUNDAY DECEMBER, 12TH!

Good luck!

Smooches,

Disclaimer: Mommy Delicious was not compensated to write this post. Build-A-Bear Workshop is providing the gift card to the winner.

Deck The Halls With Shutterfly Holiday Cards

Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Hey Lovelies!

I have always loved Holiday Photo Cards. And this year is no different. I order my holiday cards from Shutterfly for three reasons:
1. They are affordable
2. They don't look cheap -- they're very professional-looking
3. They arrived in my mailbox quickly

Plus (yep, I have a bonus one for ya!) Shutterfly always has so many options to choose from that I always end up spending a good chunk of time perusing the Holiday Photo Card section.

Because Aiden took such a cute picture with Santa this year (don't worry... I'll share the cuteness in another blog post), I intend on using that as the photo for this year's cards.

Because all of their Holiday Photo Cards are so creative and festive, I am still deciding on this year's design. Here are my faves. I know you'll love 'em -- I do!






And I won't stop there. This year, I intend on giving a little more of Aiden to his grandparents and God parents with this cute Wall Calendar. I think they're very affordable and an easy way to cross several people off of our Christmas list at once. I'm all about being frugal this year. I'm just saying...


I figured since they loved Aiden's Birthday Cards so much, they'll love this too. Right?

Check out Shutterfly.com to order your Holiday Photo Cards today. Also, you can follow them on Twitter and "like" them on Facebook.

Smooches,

Disclaimer: I was provided 50 Holiday Cards from Shutterfly's 2010 Holiday Collection in exchange for this post. No other compensation was provided.

Guest Post: 7 Questions Moms Should Ask Themselves Before Returning to School

Hey Lovelies!

Today, we have a treat on Mommy Delicious! A few weeks ago, I was contacted by one of the editors of Pounding The Pavement, a Career Education blog for young professionals. As a full time graduate student and a young mother, it is very important to me to become a competent professional so that I can climb that career ladder.

I remember when I was considering applying to grad school and during my actual application process -- I kept wondering if I was making the right decision at the right time for my son and me. Ultimately, I decided that it was, in fact, the right decision. So when I received my acceptance letters, I mailed out that tuition deposit faster than a kid opens Christmas presents! And although it's been tough taking 5 classes each semester and having an internship and working and being a mother (hello Starbucks!), I'm doing it. And I'm happy.

So with next semester right around the corner, and registration/application deadlines quickly approaching, here are 7 questions moms should ask themselves before returning to school (or attending for the first time).

When I was seven months pregnant, I graduated with my Master’s degree. At the time, I thought that if I was blessed to stay home with my baby even for a short time while my husband worked, a Master’s degree would benefit me when I re-entered the workforce. My employer was also willing to pay a portion of my tuition. What I didn’t know at the time was that I would have two more children and ultimately be out of the full-time workforce for almost 15 years. I also didn’t realize back then that when I was ultimately ready to go back to work, I would not want to go back to the same career.

Now I am looking to go back to school to find out what I want to be when I grow up. My children are at the ages that they are more self-sufficient so I could devote more time to my studies. However, the baby that I carried the last time I was in school is now getting ready to go to college and pursue his own dreams. Will we really be able to afford for both of us to be in school at the same time?

There are several questions that moms, in particular, need to ask themselves before returning to school. The first question is how will my decision affect my family? Because, as a mom, our family is our first priority so we have to really assess how our decision to go back to school will affect our loved ones. Another question that we need to ask is will childcare be an issue? When you factor the cost of your education, you need to factor in all of the costs associated with your education, including childcare. The benefit in today’s educational sphere is that now we have the option of pursing an on-line degree and we never have to leave home. The world literally is our classroom and on-line degree programs are available in every possible field. Check out this link to find out more about these programs.

Another question that you need to ask yourself before enrolling in any program is what are my reasons for returning to school? You need to check your motive to make sure that it is the right motive, one that will sustain you in those times it may get difficult balancing school and family. And then you need to ask yourself who am I doing this for? Again, make sure that your motive is correct so that you won’t burn out halfway through the program. The right motive can provide the drive needed to keep going when you may feel like giving up.

Another question that I wish I had asked myself 16 years ago is will this degree give me some options? Everyone makes several lateral career moves throughout their lifetime and many of change careers completely at least once. I wish I had thought through my degree and asked myself what else I could do with the Masters I had chosen. For example, a Master’s in some disciplines will give you the opportunity to teach on a university level as an adjunct at some schools. This is an excellent option for moms who want to teach but cannot commit to a full-time position.

The next question you should ask yourself is how long am I willing to be in school? Again, considering your family commitments, factor in all of your present commitments and set a realistic goal for yourself. And the final question you need to address concerns finances: how will I pay for schooling? If you research different options, particularly distance learning versus traditional college, you will find that many institutions and degree programs vary in cost. An assessment of your personal financial situation can help you determine which program is right for you.

Going back to school at any age, at any time in your life is a big decision. But it is also, in my opinion, one of the best decisions that you will ever make. My kids tease me that I have a Master’s degree so that I could change diapers. But in reality, my degree has opened many doors for me that have allowed me to pursue other dreams that I didn’t even know I had 16 years ago!

Kathy Rothaar is a guest blogger for Pounding the Pavement and a writer on online career training for the Guide to Career Education.

Smooches,

Weekend Reads

Hey Lovelies:

Here are some good reads for this week's link round up.

Ever felt insulted from a pair of jeans? Ad Hoc Mom certainly has.

Brrr... it's getting cold out there. Don't forget about keeping your little boy's feet warm. Mom Finds has got the best winter boots for boys.

If you're in the NYC area, Shiny Brite has got you covered to find great gifts from local shops.

Have a great weekend.

Be sure to check out Mommy Delicious often next week because tis the season for giving and there will be LOTS of fun giveaways on this blog starting next week. Yay!

Smooches,

Maximize Your Mommy Delicious Experience

Hey Lovelies!

A couple weeks ago, Mommy Delicious received a pretty sexy face-lift. For those of you fabulous readers who've been around this blog for a while, you can clearly see the difference -- a great makeover from The Design Girl. Wowza!

Well, along with the makeover, Mommy Delicious is expanding in the social media world. Yep, you can now find Mommy Delicious on Twitter @MommyDelicious ....and on Facebook. Pow!

So... click those cute little pink buttons to your right-hand side and make the most out of your Mommy Delicious experience. It'll leave a sweet taste in your mouth. And let's face it, everyone has a little sweet-tooth every now and again.

In addition to tweeting and posting about giveaways, tips and tricks and advice on staying sane as a delicious mommy, when you join me on Twitter @MommyDelicious and find me onFacebook, we can continue our conversations from this blog, make our presence known, and demonstrate to the world that young moms and single moms can succeed at motherhood and raise competent babies.

Together lets show 'em that we can rock motherhood! Owwshh!

Smooches,