A Chunk Taken A Chunk Gained

A massive chunk was taken out of my day and I didn’t even realize it.

The blur began as soon as we walked in… I was taken back by the little kiddie town. I was so distracted with everything; I missed a perfect photo op with my husband dressing Luci in the Fireman’s costume.

My husband (Ralph) was only there to drop us off but he was taken by the gator as well. He’s the perfect play mate for Luci, neither one knows when or how to stop playing around. They both had a great time playing make believe in the little play stations.

I never knew Luci was such a great cook and grocery shopper! It amazes me how much he absorbs. Having Ralph there was great: D

This was the first time I was really able to talk to the other mothers and watch my kids (the big one and the little one) out of my peripheral. Needless to say, it was great getting to know the other mothers on a deeper level.

I discovered that Nancy is a true certified world traveler. She mentioned that she’s traveled to every single continent with the exception of Antarctica (so far). I thought that was really cool…I myself love traveling and experiencing various cultures first hand, as well. We even seemed to share the same passion for life...” there are no limits to life and the world is here for our full enjoyment”.

I was blessed not only to learn about her travels but also about to learn about her love of service. She thoroughly enjoys serving the community in everything from volunteering at the Big Cat Rescue to tutoring at- risk children. She truly is an amazing woman. I’m glad to say that I now more than as just Lily’s mom.

She reminded me that the more you give, the more you get back. It was actually through her selfless time that she discovered a love of teaching… and now regularly utilizes her free time to educate several other children. For most, free time is for refueling but for her it’s for igniting her passion.

I felt as if the gator just gave me a good whack with his tale.

I love speaking to Real Women with Real Lives. Women who understand and respect their role as a mother…instead of neglecting their true identity they embrace it.


Our conversation was soon interrupted by a potty request and soon I found myself running after Luci towards one of the many bounce houses.


I was so impressed with the layout of the place. Moms are placed smack dab in the middle of it all. We were able to watch the kids in any area from one vantage point. Lord knows I need a breather. I would call it a swamp setting because it was peaceful yet there was tons of action spinning all around me in the distance.

In the far distance I noticed Gracie and Gemma running through each and every bounce house and obstacle course. I think the only time she took a breath was during their potty break. Yeah she’s a SuperMommy…


Joshua and Nico were real troopers… nothing could slow them down except for the little dress –up session. Looks like they had a great time trying on different ensembles...Mary and Nicole, I won’t tell if you won’t.


The unlimited play was such a huge bonus because it kept the kids busy the entire time. They never seemed to get bored. If they slowed down at all it was to reawaken another level of their endless secret energy supply. I don’t think they weren’t satisfied until they played in every single area at least 4 times.


I enjoyed watching them play. Of course, the Big Kid; I got engaged in a good old game of chase after Luci … Hey daddy was there but I had to get my time in as well. Luci wouldn’t have it any other way.


After the chase, I got a chance to speak to Rachel and she gave me some great shopping advice. Since being a mom it has been extremely hard for me to shop for myself, especially on a budget. She reminded me that it can be done, it just takes good planning. “Shop during sales and never without a store coupon’’.


She always looks nice and we have similar taste… so getting tidbits from her were very beneficial. She even took out her receipt to let me see the actual savings. I giggled to myself because I know I can probably pull out a year’s worth of receipts out of my purse but mine will probably be from Luci or household purchases. One of greatest bits of wisdom was to sign-up for my favorite stores newsletters as soon as they come to mind. They have amazing coupons and keep me abreast of upcoming sales


I gained a lot of information and it still baffles me of how much I walked away with on Friday. I got to know the women in our group on a deeper level and my son was ready for one of the best naps he’s had in a while!


Fred can always take a chunk out of my wallet.