5 Minutes for Mom’s Blog Party 2010! Time to mix and mingle!

April 10, 2010

Ultimate Blog Party 2010

Hey hey! I am a girl who loves a good party and i couldn’t resist linking up to 5 minutes for mom’s Ultimate blog party!! So welcome…and thanks for stopping by. can’t wait to meet all of you who are visitors from the party and leave a comment!  i’m a snoopy blogger and love to check out people who visit my blog. hehe :) 
and for all you regular readers..you know i luv ya!

sooo i’m natalie…aka the busy budgeting mama.
and a few of my posts should sum me up……
(click “what i love” to go to post!) 

I love my family. I have an amazing husband who is a full time youth minister. we have a 20 month old baby girl..sophia. and our expecting another baby girl on august 10th! 
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I love to throw parties. if i have nothing going on i will automatically think of things to do and create a to do  list that consists of way too detailed projects haha. but i love it.
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i love to bake. (and cook) invite me over for a dinner party and ask me to bring dessert and
 i’ll be your best friend for life!! hehe.  this is what i brought to the family easter dinner. 
i just had to bring some sweet treats. i have a growing collection of recipes that i’ve found and love so hope you check them out. 
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i love to share my favorite blogs, recipes, bargains & mama moments. in real life i’m a talker..so..post overload should be expected from me. hehe. just be happy you don’t have to see me talk with my hands. it can get dangerous.
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I love to feature my followers. i loveeeee to check out who has been visiting and decided to follow me! i’ve found so many great blogs through google connect.


I’m love finding DIY Ideas. below are some awesome diy finds from some amazing women!! check them out! (click “i’m a diy mama” to go to post)
 i love finding new project ideas and passing them along! 
if you have some fun ones you’ve done please share the wisdom! our house is up on the market and i can’t wait to get into our new house (wherever that is!) and make it ours. i love decorating our house and looking at other people’s decorated houses. hehe. 



There are some AMAZING prizes being given away at the blog party!! here are my top 5 picks…i never win anything..but i can dream right?? :)
1. i have a plan after i have this baby.. lose this baby weight!
US105 ā€“ Get Fit Pack: One ā€œluckyā€ winner will get a triple threat of Jillian Michaels. Pack contains 30 Day Shred, Yoga Meltdown, The Biggest Loser Last Chance Workout. Pack also includes an aluminum water bottle to help stay on track and stay hydrated!Provided by: Green Mom Wannabe
Follow here: madareamama

2. I am in target wayyy too much.
USC 3 ā€“ A $50.00 Target Gift Card.Provided by: Peggy Gorman
Follow here: velvet1116 or Visit Our Fan Page: Peggy Gorman

3. Date night!
USC 21 ā€“ $25 Gift Card to Cinemark Theaters
Provided by: Anne @ Upstate Ramblings
Follow here: Anne Gustke

4. cash..need i say more? shopping trip to ikea!!!
USC 35 – $50.00 CASH ~ Paypal Transfer. ($50 USD or current CAD conversion rate)Provided by: American Muslim Mom
Follow here: ponnsabra or Visit Our Fan Page: American Muslim Mom

5. the cook book sounds awesome!
US43 ā€“ A copy of Get Out!: 150 Ways For Kids and Grown-Ups to Get Into Nature and Build a Greener Future and The Frugal Foodie Cookbook will be shipped to one lucky winner.Provided by: Lisaā€™s Coupons
Follow here: blm03

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Enough about meeee tell me about youuuuu. 
1. who are you?? :)
2. what’s your blog about? 
3. and a really deep one…if you could be a fruit what would you be and why? 
i would be a pineapple because it’s the symbol for hospitality. :) i know….very deep. i warned you.


thanks for stopping by…and ladies who have been following my blog.. photo shoot for pittsburgh fashion magazine is tomorrow! i’m so excited but nervous. i hope i can pull it off. my friends growing up who are models always told me “smile and laugh…smile and laugh”….;)
have a great day. and can’t wait to visit all of you who have stopped by from the blog party!!







  • Sarah
    April 10, 2010 at 9:24 pm

    Hi Natalie,

    Thanks for commenting on our blog, your site is beautiful and the photos are stunning!

    We can definitely see ourselves returning many times, can’t wait to sign up as followers!

    As Mommies of 8, we’re excited to see what baby number 2’s name is in August! Congratulations on your new little girl.

    Sarah & Robyn
    http://www.stylebymommy.blogspot.com

  • Jocelyn
    April 10, 2010 at 9:27 pm

    Have I told you lately how much I LOVE your blog? Cause I do! You are the best! Woo to the Hoo for the feature for me and my sis in law:-) About me: 1. SAHM who loves to bake and be super crafty:-) 2.my blog is about baking and super craftiness…imagine that. HA! 3. I would be a banana…why, cause I eat so many I might already be one. LOL! Congrats on your photo shoot! Totally awesome and can’t wait to see the pics. I too LOVE to bring dessert to any dinner parties we go to…it is my speciality;-p

  • Kim
    April 10, 2010 at 9:34 pm

    OMG!!! Look at how cute your family is! And your such a skinny mini with your little baby bump! Oh and I say Tar-Jay too! Hahah! Makes me feel all rich and fancy! Super nice to meet you!!!
    http://chubbycheeksthinks.blogspot.com/2010/04/blog-party-wooo-hooo.html

  • La-La-Liene
    April 10, 2010 at 10:07 pm

    Thanks for stopping by my blog! I love what you did with that desk – painting it green. I need to start going to garage sales and thinking outside of the box because I love to get things cheap and make them look chic!! Oh and your desserts look yummy! Congrats on baby #2!

  • Natalie Catherine
    April 10, 2010 at 10:14 pm

    you are too sweet! that wasn’t my diy project just one of my faves that i found! you should check her out. click on the “i’m a diy mama”

  • Mama Llama
    April 10, 2010 at 10:34 pm

    thanks for coming by Little Llamas! I Love you blog!

    1- LOVE the post layout (looks like a magazine spread) Are you using a mac? and you blog looks very “wordpress-ish”

    2- do you use a speedlight indoors or ambient light?

    3-are using bumpits or do you accomplish that poof your self, and if so, can you teach me how to get it? I am totally serious. 100%

    4- are you on twitter…if so, follow me @littlellamas and i will follow ya back!

    5 I am totally subscribing as I need some DIY help. and a VLOG on how to accomplish that hair poof…asap.

    SO glad to meet you!

  • Sky
    April 10, 2010 at 11:28 pm

    Hi Natalie…

    I’m seriously in love with your blog!!

    I love your DIY…I can’t wait to read more.

    If I were a fruit I’d be an avacado. I’m not sure why, I just love ’em!

  • Rona's Home Page
    April 10, 2010 at 11:54 pm

    I’m 48 year old severe chronic pain sufferer, mother of an 18 year son, married 14 years, always have to do it the hard way woman.
    My blog is currently about our struggle and triumphs of life in downward spiral Las Vegas. Unemployment,underemployment,navigating social services, survival, living our lives as working poor after being middle class. Losing our jobs, our home, our dog..selling our wedding rings and our car to pay bills and rent. And getting rid of furniture and other items so we get rid of just one more bill.
    I also blog about my chronic pain, dealing with Las Vegas doctors, and health insurance.
    I finally found a full time work at home job with benefits but it’s barely keeping us afloat.
    And all during this time I talk about those bright moments when I can feel the warm of my husband’s hand on my face assuring me we’ll get through the day. Or having a teenage son tell me he’s paid on the rent or purchased groceries because he wants to help out the family. And just praying that I can keep my faith strong through another crisis.
    That’s what I blog about.
    What type of fruit would I be? Probably a simple every day apple because of their many uses.

  • Bridgette
    April 11, 2010 at 1:26 am

    Stopping in from the UBP to say HI! :)

  • Your Frugal Friend, Niki
    April 11, 2010 at 2:55 am

    Hello, I’m here for the party!

    My name is Niki and I am your newest reader. I look forward to reading on to get to know you better.

    Come on by and visit me during the party; I’m hosting a giveaway you won’t want to miss!

    http://free2befrugal.blogspot.com/2010/04/ultimate-blog-party-10.html

    P.S. If I could be a fruit I would be a watermelon. Why? Because they are delicious and seriously, have you ever met someone who doesn’t like watermelon?!?

  • busylilgal
    April 11, 2010 at 8:23 am

    Hello Natalie,
    I’m so glad to have found your beautiful blog via the UBP. Your photos are amazing!

    I’m new to blogging and am thoroughly enjoying it. It’s so neat to meet other moms doing the same thing. My blog, Busy ‘Lil Homemaker, is about a number of things – homemaking, family, and just musings.

    What fruit would I be? Hmmm….not sure…I guess I’d have to choose a pear – matches my shape! :)

  • Dawna
    April 11, 2010 at 9:49 am

    Hi, Natalie!

    Just returning the favor of a drop by. I love your blog already! I will definitely be following you!

    1) Dawna – Mommy to 3 and military spouse, who has more interests than time. lol

    2) My blog is a mish mash of things. Musings, writing, the ups and downs, the adventures… It’s about my life. :-)

    3) I would be an apple… it’s the symbol of wisdom and knowledge. That to which I aspire. :-)

    It’s so nice to meet you!

  • Mandi
    April 11, 2010 at 10:42 am

    Your introduction alone is so freaking pretty! LOL I’m hooked and can’t wait to come back and read!

  • Plowlady
    April 11, 2010 at 11:58 am

    Coming from the UBP — I have met so many new bloggers out there! Hi there and you have a wonderful blog here, I am having tons of fun surfing through it! I am #986 Blog, #734 Twitter & #462 Facebook

  • Marsha
    April 11, 2010 at 12:00 pm

    Oh Mu Goodness, congrats on your baby girl. There was another blog on the UBP that shows you how to make tutus. They are adorable. I don’t have little girls bummer :-)

    I signed up for your newsletter. Thanks for stopping by my blog too :-)

    Marsha
    #687 UBP
    Facebook#302

  • Modern Style Mama
    April 11, 2010 at 1:55 pm

    Hi Natalie! I found you through UBP! I LOVE your blog. Your DIY room is fabulous!!!Do you want to come over and do a room in my house?! :) I am now a subscriber and follower. Nice to meet you and I look forward to your posts.

    Nicole
    http://www.modernstylemama.com

  • The Penny-Pinching Mama
    April 11, 2010 at 9:54 pm

    Wow – you’ve put a lot of work into this post – it looks like a magazine. Beautiful!

    Thanks for stopping by and mingling with me. :)

  • Jessica
    April 12, 2010 at 12:14 am

    This is the most beautiful blog post I’ve EVER seen!! AMAZING!

    Found you via the UBP10. I can’t wait to read more about you, your family and your creativity.

    Hope you are enjoying the party.

  • Melissa
    April 12, 2010 at 12:38 am

    Happy to party with you!

    I really like what you have here. I Need the style help and appreciate any tips and updates you have to offer. Otherwise, I’ll drown in a sea of black.

    My name is Melissa. I have a mom blog where I attempt to be witty, humorous, and entertaining.

    I would be a banana if I were a fruit because I like yellow, I like sweet, and potassium starts with a ‘p’ and that is an important bodily function. That is all :)

    I’m now following! Hope you stop by!

  • Mrs. Marine
    April 12, 2010 at 1:32 am

    Hi, nice to meet you! If you like DIY, did you know Scentsy has a DIY warmer? Check it out: https://patriciag.scentsy.us/Buy/Collection/25
    Great “Party”! Hope your having fun at the UBP, I know I am! Here is my Party Post, come on over and make yourself at home!
    http://www.mrs-marine.com/2010/04/2010-ultimate-blog-party.html

  • KarmaPearl
    April 12, 2010 at 9:58 am

    Thanks for stopping by my blog for the UBP, fellow Natalie! Your daughter is beautiful and congrats on daughter #2!!

  • Bri
    April 12, 2010 at 12:19 pm

    Hi Natalie! Coming from UBP10 ~ I actually saw your comment on one of the blogs I was reading.
    What a sweet looking blog you have.

    I’m Bri ~ I have two blogs: ThePromoMarketer and TheGrammieDiaries. I am a corporate gift distributor (marketing brander/ promotional product and event planner) and a Grammie to two delicious little ones. I’ve spent over 20some years in high tech (Silicon Valley) in Sales and Marketing and write about what life has taught me. Hoping to teach younger moms what life is really all about.

    I also talk about my favorite things ~ and my doggie LOL

    It’s a busy day for me each day but I wouldn’t change a thing.

    Blessings to you!

  • InspiredGifts.com
    April 12, 2010 at 3:24 pm

    Hi there! Nice to meet you! I loved reading your blog. You are a real talent!!!

    I hope you can stop by our blog: http://inspiredgiftsblog.blogspot.com
    Inspiredgifts.com is a mom owned newly launched site.

    Have a beautiful day
    Rebecca

  • Shell
    April 12, 2010 at 11:16 pm

    You have a lot going on on your blog! Love it! Are you from Pittsburgh or is that just a name of magazine that I’m completely unfamiliar with(I know, I sound like an idiot- I’m a former Pittsburgh girl).

    Following your blog now.

    Oh, your questions- my blog Things I Can’t Say- you can come see my party post to see what I’m about. ;) And a fruit…I’d be a strawberry.

  • Christina Linnell
    April 13, 2010 at 9:16 am

    Natalie, thanks for stopping by my blog.
    I am so following you now. You have an amazing blog that makes me feel happy just scrolling through it. Can’t wait to see what else is to come. Have fun at the party!

  • Angie Vinez
    April 14, 2010 at 6:03 am

    Thank you for stopping by my blog! :)

    You, my dear, are absolutely gorgeous! I wish that I looked that good *not* pregnant. LOL!

    I’m now following you, and will be keeping tabs on your pregnancy. I hope it’s an easy one for you.

  • sisters saving
    April 14, 2010 at 1:08 pm

    stopping by from the UBP. I love your site!

  • Janene
    April 14, 2010 at 8:07 pm

    Beautiful site and I absolutely love the header of your blog.

    Have a good time partying with UBP10. Stop by if you get a chance http://stopdropandrelax.com/blog/ And see what we have to help you Stop Drop and Relax. Visit our store at http://www.StopDropandRelax.com and Prepare To Be Pampered.

  • Jackie
    April 16, 2010 at 7:16 pm

    I enjoyed visiting your blog. You have a beautiful family…I wish I had half your energy…you seem so busy! Have a great weekend!

  • Fancy Pants
    April 18, 2010 at 2:27 am

    Hey there, check out my latest post “It’s a boy” and see how you inspired my BFF and I!

  • Mama D.'s Dozen
    April 22, 2010 at 2:40 am

    Just found your blog. What a fun place to visit. :) Can’t wait to read more.

    I’m a mama of a dozen children. I am crazy busy, but we have a whole lot of FUN at our house. Can hardly remember when I was pregnant with #2. Oh so long ago.

    I love to bake and cook (so I share a few recipes on my blog).

    My house is on the market, as well, so I am dreaming about all of the fun new decorating ideas and DIY projects that I can do.

    I love to host parties, and just put on a BIG surprise party for my husbands 50th birthday (he’s a pastor) … I surprised him with his lifelong dream, a Harley Davidson. We are also big game players (board games and cards), and we love to hostess all-night game parties from 8:00pm – 8:00 am. We usually start the party with pizza … and end with pancakes (made with freshly ground whole wheat flour) before sending everyone home to bed.

    While I have 6 young adult children (and can’t wait to be a grandma) … I also have 6 younger children that I homeschool. So, while I’m old enough to be a lot of my Bloggy Friends’ mama … I feel more like a big sister, because I still have a house full of young ones. My passion is to support and encourage young mamas, and my blog has become an amazing ministry.

    Laurel
    mama of a dozen
    ages: 8, 8, 10, 11, 13, 16, 19, 21, 21, 23, 24, 25

  • Cheryl D.
    April 23, 2010 at 5:42 pm

    Hi Natalie!

    I’m popping by via the UBP! I just can’t stop partying. I’m actually trying to visit every blog that looks like it may be of interest to me.

    I’m a mom to a beautiful six year old girl with high-functioning autism/Asperger’s. My blog is about celebrating her quirkiness (and anything else mom-related that I feel like writing about). The fruit I would be would be an apple! A little bit of me each day keeps the doctor away! LOL!

    Nice blog, BTW!