Craving Calgon

**If you are brand new to my blog, please scroll down and read my "Welcome Cleveland" entry.:)

I think I’ve used that title before, but I decided to recycle it because it fits the moment! I am on day 4 of non-stop packing, wrapping up the house, and running after the boys. The phone rings all day, the doorbell keeps going off, and I feel like I'm inside an Erma Bombeck book...I need a bubble bath!!:) Although it would be wonderful to have movers come in and do everything for us, I have to admit that packing has been therapeutic in some ways. There are so many boxes that I packed away and looking inside brings back some great memories. Especially, sorting through Gabriel’s infant clothes. He’s turning 4, two weeks from today, and just recently we bought size 10 shoes for his back-to-school wardrobe. Sitting there, holding the tiny size 2 loafers, made me realize all the little miles my little boy has accumulated over the past four years. With Grant, I am packing baby items that he never even had a chance to wear! Babies grow up so fast and he skipped right over a few stages and now it’s too late for the newborn outfits!L Needless to say, it’s been a great opportunity to look back and get sappy.:)
Anyway, my time is up so I better finish up for tonight. We are leaving Friday so my blog will be a bit slow for a day or two. We’ll be up and at em’ soon though, and I am already mentally archiving some ideas and things I want to post. Also, thank you to everyone who posted a comment or e-mailed me. Your feedback has been incredible and I can’t thank you enough!!

Welcome Cleveland!

I can’t tell you how excited I am to actually write that. Starting next week I will be joining Fish Mornings with Len and Mark! If you are new to my page, thanks for taking the time to stop by! For those that don’t already know about me, here is the scoop, in a nutshell.:) I have an amazing husband named Jim, and two handsome boys (Gabriel and Grant) and we live in Green Bay, WI (for a few more days anyway). All of my family, and extended relatives are in Ohio, from North Canton, all the way to Sandusky! So we are just giddy about the fact that we are going HOME. Jim and I have been married 5 years and have never lived near family, and now we intend to stay for good!:) I started “Brooke’s Baby Page” 2 years ago (wow has it been that long already?!) and it was right after we announced my pregnancy with my now-18 month old son Grant. It was such a fun outlet that I stuck with it! Feel free to look around while you are here (if you are in Ohio, please read my “Dream Job” post…that just about sums up my thoughts on coming to work at The Fish)! You can also click on the “Links” section at the bottom right corner, and old archives too. It’s going to be such a great experience to meet everyone and get to know the listeners….I can’t wait!

Baby Page Poll

Well, I think it's time to take inventory and change up a few things on my website. It's been so exciting to see my blog grow, and it seems like each week I am getting hits from new places, from all over the USA, to Europe and Asia. Pretty neat! So what I'm wondering is: what makes this page interesting to you? Is it the photos I post with items you can buy? Is it the Hollywood entertainment news? Is it my personal journal entries? I never really know, so I usually just a post a little of everything. You can leave a comment (at the bottom of this post) or you can also e-mail me at: BrookeTaylor9@yahoo.com. Pretty soon, I'll be changing the site because it will be linked with the website where I'll be working!:) So I might recycle some old entries, and switch things up a bit. For now I better get back to packing! We are making pretty good progress but it's really tough with 2 toddlers and a dog! This is a good reminder that you don't need to spend a ton on toys though. The boys have been entertaining themselves with empty boxes for hours!! Lol.:)

For the Baby who has Everything....

I think I've officially seen it all! I wasn't sure what to think of this Bubble Go Car from F*A*O Schwarz, but after reading the description, I think I like it! Mainly, because you get your money's worth when you buy this thing. It starts as a push-along, then a ride-on, and finally converts into a stroller! It just might be worth the $170 price tag. To check it out log on to: www.fao.com

All that Glitters

Here is another big trend I noticed in NY. Glitter, sequined hobo bags are in, and I personally LOVE them! I realize this might not be a fashion statement for everyone, but this bag really makes an ordinary outfit pop, gives it that extra boost of style and is really pretty versatile! This morning I ordered my bag from Intuition as a celebration for getting my new job (any excuse would do though!):) You can get yours in new fall colors at www.shopintuition.com ($30) just click under the "What's New" category and take your pick!:)

Dream Job

Well, I have some news! I can't believe I'm actually writing this but, I'm BACK in radio!!:) I'm sure somewhere, someone is winning a bet over that one.:) Actually it wasn't something that I actively set out to do. It had taken so much thought and prayer to decide to walk away from my job in the first place, that I was sure it was the right thing to do. Looking back, I think the timing of everything was quite amazing. Over the past 3 months, I have experienced some great moments with my boys, and enjoyed every minute of it! At the same time, I am beyond excited about my new job, and really motivated and prepared to give it my all. I am the new morning show co-host at WFHM in Cleveland!! At first, I was a bit on the fence about the possibility of getting back in radio full-time. After meeting the Program Director, and the guys on the show (Len and Mark) it was like I did a complete and total 180! After being around them, to get the vibe of the station, and audition on their show, it was like every single part of me believed this was where I needed to be!! No question, no doubt in my mind. Not to mention that Cleveland is where I always dreamed of working since I was a little girl! If there was one perfect situation, one DREAM scenario that would make me want to get back into radio.....THIS IS IT! So it's been quite surreal to find out I will be a part of something so exciting! At first I was intimidated and not sure if I was worthy of such a great job. Lol. Yet, I've had the amazing opportunity to interview people like Reba McEntire, Tim McGraw, Toby Keith, Brooks and Dunn, Dolly Parton, and even Phil Donahue! haha. I've been able to hang out with Keith Urban and Martina McBride and go on stage with over half a million people in the audience...so that qualifies me for major market....right? I'm not trying to brag, I'm just trying to convince myself that I can actually do this! Lol. So, here comes another exciting chapter in our life. Jim and I sat down and talked to the boys and Grant was too busy trying to eat his toe, but Gabriel was excited and said "good job mommy, I get to hear you on the radyo again?!". So life will resume a hectic pace again but I am truly ready for it. The format of this station is Christian (The Fish) and anyone that knows me, knows the passion I have for that music. I have tried to get the awareness out there forever at how GOOD it sounds, and now I have an opportunity to be around it every day!! That is a pretty cool blessing. Anyway, I should be packing but of course, I've found another way to procrastinate.:) I'll keep you posted when I start my new job and, get this, you can even listen online!!:) Gotta go pinch myself now!:)

Gotta Get Gaucho!

These pants were EVERYWHERE in NY! I noticed them right away and it became a contest for Jim and me to see how many we could spot. The are super figure-flattering, very trendy and most of all... comfy! I finally asked a girl where she got hers and she was more than happy to tell me it was Urban Outfitters. I know I'm late on this, since we are getting into Fall fashions but I will definately wear mine next spring too! You can log on to www.urbanoutfitters.com or they also have them at www.forever21.com too!

I Love NY

We’re back!! We had the most amazing time in New York; I could probably gush about it for days! The shopping lived up to my expectations in every imaginable way and we scored some great deals! I also need to rave about Gray Line Tours because they really have their act together and we had a great time seeing the city on the double decker bus! We saw SOHO, Madison Square Garden, Central Park, The Meatpacking District, Chinatown, Little Italy, Wall Street, Ground Zero, Times Square, Broadway, and we even went over to Brooklyn! We also took a night tour of the city and I highly recommend that, it’s was just breathtaking to see the city at night, and to get the vantage point from the top of a bus. One of my favorite aspects of going to New York was honestly, people watching! It boggles my mind how dense the city is, and how busy it is, 24/7. Everyone has their own individual style and I LOVE that. You really see it all! I was able to get some outstanding fall fashion ideas and we really want to go back in spring! Lol. We didn’t see any Broadway shows or go to any museums, but considering we only had 2 days, I think we accomplished a lot! In my opinion, it was perfect because this was just a little taste for us, and we got the know the city, so next time we can come back and do all that other stuff. We didn’t see anyone famous, except some basketball player I’ve never heard of (Byron Williams…I think?) Although we did get on Spanish MTV! Lol. They had a big Mexican parade and we were trying to cross the street. Well, we got caught up in the parade right when some VJ from MTV was walking through with a big float. He had a huge white fur jacket and hat with a bunch of bling-bling. Lol. Jim was like “Yo..you rock”! They had all the camera crews filming us, and him saying that. It cracked me up, our big shining moment! Haha. So anyway, I basically think everyone should go to New York, at least once during your lifetime. It’s been over 10 years since I was there last time and it was even better than I remembered! You just get a feel for how great our Country is though, and how vital New York really is! Plus it just exudes magnetism and excitement and I totally can see the appeal for living there. Not for me personally, but it’s definitely an exciting place.
So we are back home and back to the real world! The boys did GREAT when we were gone, and I actually believe this trip was good for them too, they really thrived with Monica and Jeff (our friend’s who stayed with them). Now I have to think about packing the house up, and all the real estate stuff. We only have a week ½ before its go-time! I’m also really stressed about another issue but I can’t say much more than that. Trust me, I’ll spill the beans soon but right now I just can’t. Well, I have about 50 empty boxes just waiting for me, I better start packing!

IN NY

Just a quick update today! We are still in NY and enjoying every minute of it! We have had an amazing time (we even got on Spanish MTV! Lol). Trust me, I will give all the juicy details after we get back. :) The city is beautiful, the people are NICE, and the shopping is divvviiinnnneee!! Everything I ever imagined and more. Our flight leaves later tonight so we still have some time to sightsee and shop (which could be dangerous)! Gotta go, I'll give you the full update after we get home!

Super Straight, Aveda's Great!!

LOVE this product! My friend and stylist, Britta gave this product to me and my hair has been transformed!! Trust me, I have used just about every straightening product under the sun, from Davines to Kerastase, and many more, so I was very skeptical. Bottom line: if you have frizzy, thick, or just plain wild hair, this will smooth it out and give it shine. You only need a tiny dab, so the bottle will last a long time...you know my cheapskate nature LOVES that!:) You can get Hang Straight at any Aveda salon for about$16.50

Start Spreading the News

I'm leaving today. I want to be a part of it....New York, New York!! I have been singing that song for 2 days non-stop and it's driving me crazy!!! I can't help it though, I'm excited, what can I say?! We will leave early tomorrow and 24 hours from now we'll be in NYC!! Since we are only going to be there a few days, we have a tight agenda and made a list of the must-see, must-do attractions. Definitely Ground Zero. Also St. John the Divine Church, Times Square and Broadway (of course) and Tiffany's. Jim was so sweet this morning. I asked him what he was looking forward too about our trip MOST? He said "spending time alone, with you". Such a romantic! I feel the same way, but aside from that it's the shopping! Not buying necessarily, just browsing and people-watching and getting the scoop on the latest trends and the hottest stores! Monday is also my birthday and although it's going to be tough to not wake up and hang out with my boys, I can't think of a better city to celebrate! I told Jim I wanted to make a sign and try to get on TV during Good Morning America or one of those shows (haha, ALWAYS the constant ham!):) We'll see though, I haven't decided about that yet. So, my blog might be on hiatus for a few days, but I will update with plenty of pics and stories when we return! In fact, I might even log on when we are in New York but it just depends on how hectic everything is. With all this dedication, I need to start getting some moolah from this blog!:)

T. Ruxpin Returns!

Teddy Ruxpin is baaacckk! I, for one, have waited for this day!! Lol. He was on my Christmas list about 20 years ago, but back then it cost big bucks for a talking teddy, and I never scored one. Now, they have digitally updated him (although he has the same outfit from the 80's...what gives?!). Really though, it's sheer marketing genius when these companies revive the old sentimental toys from 20 years ago. I mean look at the action figures, everything is coming back for boys too! All the Star Wars gear, GI Joe, Spiderman, etc. I think my husband buys that stuff mostly for himself and the memories of when he was growing up!:) Also, I have noticed "My Little Pony", Cabbage Patch Kids, Pound Puppies, and even Rainbow Brite back on the shelves! So it's no wonder ol' T.Rux is back on board now. Oh yeah, and remember when I mentioned that he was too pricey for me as a kid? Um...I think that's still going to be an issue! Price tag? $69.99 (and they couldn't even update his wardrobe?!) You can see for yourself, but remember who told you first, Teddy Ruxpin-Rage is on the way!!:)

www.teddyruxpin.com (you can also order at target.com)

Time Out

I am trying to catch my breath and take stock of what's going to be happening in the next few weeks. A trip to New York, keeping our house spotless for the Open House and any showings we might have. Trying to pack, getting Gabriel prepared for school, and trying to help the boys adjust to our upcoming move. So, I need a quick time out! I am actually going on an unexpected 24 hour trip tomorrow. More details to come. After I get home, we need to have some major bonding time with Gabriel and Grant, and then take off on our NY getaway. I feel like I am on super fast-forward! Speaking of which, I have a major pile of laundry to fold and I better get to it! Right now I am totally enamored in the Tommy Lee reality show...it's cracking me up!! Too funny.

Preschool Prep

Back to school shopping season!! You can't miss the sale ads, commercials, and overall buzz about this time of year. Usually Jim and I ignore all of that but this time it's different. Gabriel, my little BABY BOY, is going to preschool for the first time!! We had to (unfortunately) withdraw him from Holy Cross, here in WI since we are moving, but we did enroll him in a new school in Ohio. He is all set with his backpack and school supplies and yesterday we went clothes shopping! It was unbelievably fun....for mommy!:) LOL. Gabe could care less but it was a huge, exciting, emotional event for Jim and me. It also reminded me of when my parents took me school shopping as a little girl and how different it was then. I would see a mannequin with the COOLEST outfit, but never in a million years dream of buying something so expensive. My parents never splurged, and couldn't afford to go all out and spend much for school. It didn't matter, but at the time I was so bummed that I wouldn't be able to buy the latest trends and stuff in the store. If it went on sale around Christmas time, then it was a possibility, but before that...not a chance. Looking back, I am profoundly grateful for those experiences (even though I wasn't at the time) but it gave me an honest appreciation for nice things. Even today, I hardly EVER buy clothes unless they are on sale. That's just in my make-up, plus, I happen to love the thrill of a great bargain!:) Still, it just felt good to go in, see a mannequin in Gap kids, and be able to buy the exact outfit (NOT on sale) for Gabriel. He is going to be such a little prepster for school and he looks so handsome in his new big boy clothes!! It just feels good as a parent, coming from my background, and being able to provide for our boys.
Anyway, speaking of shopping. we are getting so pyched for our trip to New York in a few days!:) It's going to be non-stop until then, but being busy is good, we've been having a blast lately.

Bank On It!!

Great idea for kids!! This bank is a great tool for teaching kids how to be responsible with their money, even at a young age! One of the biggest things that money guru's teach, is that children need to learn EARLY that it's important to be smart with money. This bank has 3 categories for Church, Savings, and Spending and gives your child the chance to choose where they want to put their money. You can snag this great bank for $21.00 at www.familiychristian.com. We are also reading an EXCELLENT book along that subject: "Clark Smart Parents, Clark Smart Kids". Clark is one of my favorite people and definitely knows his stuff when it comes to being frugal!!! You can check out his site at: www.clarkhoward.com.

Boots Are Back

Yep...the height of high fashion this fall is a good pair of knee-high riding boots. Actually ANY boots from cowboy, to buckle, to stiletto! I don't know what to think about that. I think I'm getting too old to dress trendy I think:) Give me some sweats and a pair of slippers and that's about as good as it gets in my world lately! Being a mom has definitely changed the way I dress, and the boot thing just doesn't seem practical to me! Lol. I know you're asking, since when has fashion EVER been "practical"?!?! lol. Still, I was hoping the UGG craze would stick around longer because at least those boots are comfortable! This particular pair will set you back 200+ if you are interested, and you can get them at: www.shopintuition.com

Taylor Trash Teaser

I don't get paid to dish gossip anymore but, that doesn't mean I still don't look for the scoop!!:) There hasn't been much juicy Hollywood news recently, but I did find a few notable tidbits. Here is a photo of Heath Ledger and Michelle Williams at the "Brothers Grimm" premiere. The couple recently got engaged after announcing Michelle's pregnancy. On TV this weekend is the Pamela Anderson Roast on Comedy Central. Among the guests: Adam Corrola, Tommy Lee (naturally), Dennis Rodman, and Anna Nicole Smith. Courtney Love was also invited, but they had to cut out almost everything she did (and/or said) because it was too inappropriate for television. Courtney, as we know now, has violated her probation on drug charges, and rumors are that she could even lose custody of her daughter. I feel bad, but how many chances has she been given now?! Hopefully she'll get help and focus on her child instead of her partying. A friend of Julia Roberts says that the mommy of Hazel and Phin. will soon quit acting altogether. She is set to star in a Broadway play next year, but after that, she reportedly wants to be a full-time mommy and focus on her twins. Well..there you have it! Just a few little nuggets I thought I would share to get you updated.:)

Incredible Inchworm!

I saw these adorable shoes at CB online and fell in love!! They actually grow with your child...what a concept! The little accordion-like middle adjusts to your child's feet and save us $$$!! Not to mention they have some really cute styles for both boys and girls! You can check out the entire line (and learn more about the dad who came up with this genius idea) at: www.inchwormshoes.com

Movin' On Up

I thought the theme song from "The Jefferson’s" was fitting today. Although we aren’t moving up really, we are moving down….to Ohio!! It is official!! Jim accepted a promotion with his job and we are moving in a few weeks!! This has been a long-term goal for us and it was just a matter of finding the right job, at the right time. Ever since Jim was in the Army and we were at Fort Bragg, we had hoped to move near family. We finally have the opportunity!! So off we go, packing, moving, changing addresses, figuring out living arrangements, and just trying to keep our sanity!:) This is amazing news for our family but it’s also created a hurricane of chaos and unknown’s. We have prayed about this from day 1 though, so I know everything will be fine and I just need to take a deep breath and relax.:) The timing could not have been more perfect and everything else just kind of fell into place, so I already know the rest will work itself out. This is the first time we are selling a home and that is honestly where I am freaking out a little. What if our house doesn’t sell?! I’ve been running around cleaning and de-cluttering every little spot so it looks perfect, but so far, no interest!! Ugh. Since I love our house so much, it’s hard for me to look beyond that and I wonder WHY this house didn’t sell in 2 weeks because I think it’s so amazing! Lol. Obviously I’m a little bias.:) On top of everything, we are still going to New York in the middle of all this commotion! Although it’s probably a really good thing because Jim and I have been so totally stressed out, I think this getaway will end up coming at a much needed time. It’s also been really emotional to think about leaving Green Bay. I truly love everything about living here, and I will miss it terribly. When we go to the park, church, or store, I think it might be the last time I go there, and I start to get choked up. We had even enrolled Gabriel into Holy Cross for preschool and now, we have to withdrawal that. It hurts my heart to tell him he can’t go to school with his best friend and that we are leaving for good. That has been the hard pert. Overall we are just feeling overwhelming excitement to FINALLY live near my parents, brother, grandparents, and lots of relatives! We can celebrate Gabriel’s birthday surrounded by family and that is something we have never been able to do! To know we have a support system there, familiar faces and a great area to live is really a major blessing, and I’m so grateful we can do this before it affects the boys being in school, because this is a perfect window. Anyway, Grant is awake from his nap and I need to run! I have so many more thoughts to write but my time is up! More later.:)

Fun With Build-A-Bear!!

Today we discovered the world of Build-A-Bear Workshop!! Jim and I always said we wanted to surprise the boys and get them a teddy, but we we just never went. Today we FINALLY did it!! Gabriel was in bear heaven and loved the entire experience! He picked out a Spider Man outfit for his bear and named him "Droopy". Grant picked out an adorable little froggy named "Ribbit" (how orginial..I know, but he can say it clearly!).:) The boys felt so important to give the bear's a heart, stuff them, and give them a bath. I know most parents are already tuned in to the Build-A-Bear world but if not, it's really worth it!!

All About the Under Armour

So my last post was all about the "Housewife Half-ton" syndrome which I have fallen into. I made up my mind that I won't gain any more weight and now is the time to take some action! Jim took me out shopping for workout gear (I have some pathetic exercise clothing, stuff from when I was in high school)!! I love Under Armour and I see it all the time but just never spent the money on buying any of their stuff. Well, I bought a few full outfits and I can tell already...they are worth the money!!! I went for a nice long jog yesterday and I swear my outfit actually helped motivate me!:) I know that sounds bizarre but it's really true! It fit perfectly and helped keep me comfortable during my run. Now I want to buy their whole line of workout gear! lol. I thought all the wicking apparel was the same but I am a loyal Under Armour fan now, plus the colors are so cute too.:) You can pick up Under Armour at Dicks Sporting Goods, or log on to www.underarmour.com.

Flab

I told you things were crazy here! I meant to update yesterday but I passed out after a full day with the boys and didn’t get online.:) We are getting ready for New York and I am really trying to whip myself into shape. I have heard of the “Freshman 15” after you enter college and put on a few pounds….what about the “Housewife Half-ton” that I am gaining?!?!? No one ever warned me about that!! Lol. I’m still really struggling with my eating habits and working out. I promised myself I would work out at least 5 days a week but it’s just not happening! On top of that, my diet has gone down the crapper. I find myself snacking just because I’m home and around junk food. We don’t have a scale but I have a feeling it would be a rude awakening if I saw the numbers on there! So I made a pact to knock it off and get with the program!:) Besides, I need my shopping stamina intact for New York!
I apologize for slacking on the gossip today. The previous report I had about Melissa Etheridge and Tammy Lynn Michaels expecting a baby was bogus. I guess People magazine had to retract the story. Oh yeah, here’s a juicy little nugget for you: I guess Angelina Jolie’s adopted son Maddox calls Brad Pitt “daddy”. If was any doubt the two aren’t serious…I think that just about settles it! Plus they have moved in together so it looks like Brad has long forgotten about Jennifer. I feel so bad for her, I am definitely on the Aniston team! Well, that’s about it for today.

Gossip Fix

Ahhhhhh, I feel so much better today! A great night's sleep, a relaxing day with the boys, and access to the internet! So I was able to catch up on all the celeb news and here are a few little tidbits: Michael Jackson has sold his story from the molestation trial to OK!. It's a big magazine in the UK and he sold his sordid tale for $2 million. Actress Holly Hunter is expecting twins! I think that is great, and here is the kicker...she is 47! Also, Melissa Etheridge and her partner Tammy Lynn Michaels are expecting a baby. You might know all of that, but I've was in a black hole of gossip for the past week so it's all news to me!:) Also, I keep getting e-mails asking what's up with Kenny Chesney and Renee! A few weeks ago I heard their marriage was on the rocks. Since then, no news. I don't know anything else but when I hear anything, I'll let you know.:)

Just a quick overview about our trip! I had no idea how much our family needed this vacation until we were there! The boys had an absolute blast and played with their cousins, and friends. We also spent the day at a family friend's house on the lake. I went tubing for the first time! My wipe-out was not graceful at all, but at least my suit stayed on! lol. Jim also LOVED golfing! He had a great time and he hasn't stopped talking about it since! It was also amazing to see my dad really interact with the boys. Now that they are a little older they can play baseball and do things with their grandpa. My parents watched the boys a lot and it gave Jim and I a chance to have quality couple time and not worry about the boys. I can't even tell you how fun it was! So now back to reality!:) Our trip to NY is about 3 weeks away, and then Gabriel starts school! The calendar is BOOKED solid with events and stuff coming up and it's going to be hectic! I just realized that 2 months ago today was my last day at work. I'm still having days where I miss it terribly. Especially hearing other people on the radio (specifically when we were in Ohio) it's like "NOOOO, don't say that" or "I could do a better job"! Lol. It's always easy to sit and critique someone else when you are on the outside!:) Well I need to go clean. More tommorrow!!:)

I'm Baaack!

We made it! We are finally home and I am BEAT. We opted to drive all night so the boys could sleep and we could skip Chicago traffic. It worked; but now Jim and I are like walking zombies. Needless to say, it's 6:45 and I am going to bed!! I was basically cut off from all my gossip sources and unable to check the internet or watch my reality shows so I am REALLY in need of a fix! Trust me, when I get a chance tomorrow, I will definitely catch up and report back to you!:) I also have a ton to say about my trip so check back soon!