Mississippi Girl

Fun

2011-03-11T05:14:00.000-08:00

A long time has passed!! A new season in life, a new job (for me!) a beautiful new house with lots more room and children that are growing, growing- so much so that I can scarcely believe it! Life is fun with a cute toddler in the house (with all of her wacky sayings). I had forgotten, I suppose, how much fun toddlers were. The older 2- their toddlerhood seems like 1 big united blur- together. They were so close in age- in cribs together, in diapers together- doing those, funny crazy, preschool, toddler-y things together, that I equate the 2 as the same somehow. Not with our Abby-girl, though. It has been a little while now since sturdy little toddler legs and feet (with rolls of baby fat still lingering) have traipsed their way through our lives. And- It IS fun- So much fun.

"To God be the Glory, great things he hath done". I am thankful- and content.

Abby-girl

2010-05-31T20:13:00.000-07:00

I watch her traipse about the front yard on sturdy little legs, this baby-child of mine. She alternately laughs and babbles, bringing me things and naming them- in her own little Abby-girl language. Some words ARE recognizable, though... "fowwwer, foowwwer" she chants over and over and crinkles up her little nose (as if the geraniums I have finally coaxed into bloom have a smell). She giggles hysterically at herself and marches on to the next thing her sweet baby hands can find.

I want to freeze this -this day, this age, this moment and remember. Remember the way her fat baby hands try to grasp brother's basketball, the sweet little point her hair is (finally) growing into, the chubby rolls on her thighs, and the funny little noises and eyes- crinkled- up smiles that are so much a part of her. So much a part of the hum and background noise of the daily in our home just now. So much a part that I won't notice the day they cease to be. That's how these things happen, you know. They become so familiar in the pattern of the present that their passing into the vault of babyhood goes unmarked and unnoticed.

Today, today, even today, my baby-child is growing. Her insistient "uh, uh, uhs" when she wants to be held and loved, the constant "ta- ta, heeeeayah mama" (as she brings various, often hilarious, objects from the household and yard from her hands to mine). This, her Abby-girl language is fast dissappering as she joins the ranks of toddlerhood. Still, no one could have ever explained this to me-nor could I have ever come close to knowing- the sweetness and joy and pain that is a mother's heart. I am thankful, oh! SO thankful for the blessings of these ordinary days~ for they are the thread of which life is made.

Guess Who?

2009-08-06T21:09:00.000-07:00

Guess who turned 9 months old today??

If you were thinking it was this little sweetie, you'd be right!

I cannot believe it has been 9 months.... We'll soon be planning a first birthday party! Whoa.

At 9 months, Miss Abigail..

-has 4(!) upper teeth coming in AT THE SAME TIME! 3 broke the surface today and we are waiting on that last stubborn one! Bless her tiny heart!

- Remains the happiest, sweetest baby! She is a ray of sunshine every single day.

- Still has the LEAST amount of hair of any of my babies. Actually, she's quite bald (but beautiful!)

- Crawls backwards. Forwards? notsomuch. She has been known to roll halfway across the room to get the object of her affection.... in most cases, some sort of rattler or other such noisemaker!

-Loves and recognizes her family! She went ballistic when Andrew came home from school today! She squealed and kicked her fat little legs so hard I thought they would fall off. She loooves it when daddy come home from work and goes nuts when I (or her big sister) walk into the room.

-Objects LOUDLY when we take a toy (or bottle) away! So cute!

We are having so much fun with you, sweet Abigail!

A day

2009-07-20T13:48:00.000-07:00

Unseasonably cool weather for the day. Blue skies. No cloud in sight. The baby and me on the swing in the shade... her laughing at me laughing at her (for no reason at all). Andrew counting peas on the back porch "We have enough for supper for 2 nights, Mama!". Anna .... in and out of the back screen door wanting a snack (as usual). Toys in the hallway. An unfinished puzzle in the middle of the floor. Towels to be folded (living on my bedroom floor for the moment). Monday- CLEAN SHEET DAY! Daddy coming home later than usual tonight... can't wait to give him a kiss. Unexpected visitors as I am on my way out the door to the grocery. Crazy, thrilling, wonderful, beautiful,happy, imperfect, messy life. I am blessed.
Much Love,

Our little sweetheart

2009-03-05T11:01:00.001-08:00

I have tons of posts rattling around in my head... but NO time to write? Anyone else have that problem?

So, today I'll leave you with a glimpse of our little sweetheart, who has turned into the happiest baby we've ever had... and the main reason behind "no time to write"... but she IS a cute little reason, though, isn't she?!??!

Life

2009-02-24T19:32:00.000-08:00

Things have been hoppin' around our little nest. Life is busy and full and sweet... and beautiful. Some days in the midst of unloading the dishwasher or changing ANOTHER dirty diaper I have to remind my self of that. And, yes, that one day, I AM ... "gonna miss this"

Our little ones are growing SOOOO quickly. Why oh, WHY?? Waaaah!! My sweet boy walked in the room today with another pair of jeans that were too short for him! Truly, some days I just want to freeze time. "Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time; for that's the stuff life is made of". I need that stenciled on my forehead!

My little Andrew is reading SO well now. Ummmm.... didn't realize that they learned that in KINDERGARTEN these days. Wow. My mom (who shares my love of all things vintage) got him a collection of Dick and Jane readers... just like she and dad learned to read with... and he has been quite enthralled. Those stories are so simple and sweet and innocent. Oh! To live in days like those again. The sweetest thing, though, has been seeing him read to Anna Kate. I found them curled up in his bed the other day with him reading to her in that little "beginner reader" voice and I just wanted to cry! Those 2 do love each other so much. I pray that they will be close forever. I pray that God would only increase that love over time.

Anna Kate is of the mind that more is better.... when it comes to her wardrobe! She has adopted the "Fancy Nancy" style of dress, and wanted to leave the house in Cinderella heels, a BOA, sunglasses on her head, rings on EVERY finger and a princess dress the other day. That child is ALL girl... and a very prissy one at that. She is my constant shadow (along with her imaginary friends Kacy and Lucy. Ahem.) and wants to do every single thing I do. I am so thankful for my sweet "fancy" girl.

Our baby Abigail is growing by the day! She is the BEST baby we have ever had and so content. She smiles that toothless smile, coos and just melts my heart. She lights up every time I come into the room and I am grateful, grateful for her little life and the sunshine she brings into mine.

I am doing a little better with getting us into a "new" routine around here... and things... things.. are really so ordinary that they are beautiful. Just the way I like it!

Blessings and Happy Tuesday!

Much Love,

My Valentine

2009-02-17T22:19:00.000-08:00

*Reprise from my 07 Valentine's post*

It still hangs in my closet. I saw it again today as I was going through things to place into the box for Goodwill. I contemplated giving it away~ even took the hanger down to view it closer and then replaced it. I'm just not ready yet. I don't know that I will ever be. It's not that I think I will ever wear it again. I know that I probably won't. I really don't even like it anymore to tell you the truth. But I will keep it. It's what I had on the first night we met. The first night we saw each other in the parking lot of that restaurant. The night that you thought I wouldn't show up.
I chose it carefully. Black is always a safe choice for a first date. I added tall boots, sparkly earrings to go with the top and my signature lipstick color. I was so nervous. I almost broke off one of my well-manicured nails on the steering wheel ...tapping it on the way to see you.
The shirt you wore was the same blue as your eyes. I can't get rid of it, either. It still smells like you. I can see you in it, standing there with the biggest smile in the world on your face. I remember what the sleeve felt like against my face sitting on that park bench after dinner. I remember feeling so small next to you.
I remember driving home that night knowing that you were the one that I would marry. I didn't want to take that outfit off because I could still smell a trace of your cologne on the sleeve. I kept it on for a long time that night. I sat in the windowseat looking at the stars and thinking~ about you, us, our future.
I put it on again one year to the day later. We went out to the same restaurant that night to celebrate the anniversary of our first date. We were now Mr. and Mrs. What a difference a year had made. We became engaged 2 months after that first date, had a fairytale wedding and were starry - eyed and in love. We sat at the same table and laughed about things had changed in those 12 little months. What a beautiful change it was.
Here we are. 6.5 years, 3 kids, and 2 houses later. That same outfit still hangs in our closet. I can't give it away. Not now, not ever. It was what I wore when you walked into my life. There is no advice I would give the girl that wore it. No tips, no suggestions. Maybe I'd just like to tell her to savor every moment, for it only gets better from here. Maybe I'd tell her that she was in for the best days of her life. Maybe I'd tell her to slow down and enjoy it more. Maybe I'd tell her nothing. For there is nothing I would change about our life together. Not one thing. You are my perfect valentine, the final name in my appointment book, my future tense.
Happy Valentine's Day and
Much Love,

Rhythm

2009-02-05T11:44:00.000-08:00

A rhythm slowly begins to settle over the house. ...
Crying, bottle, dishes, coffee, change diaper, make beds, swing, mama can you button me, bouncer, I'm hungry, She's not sharing, coos, tiny fists waving in the air, read me a book, Sesame Street, is it time for a snack, do you like my picture, wind mobile again in crib, washing machine, unloading dishwasher, crying, bottle, lunch, can I go outside, walking in stroller, telephone, computer, naps, wash hands, sing to baby, rock, rock, rock, lullabies, act silly with me, is it time to get brother from school, car, carpool line, friends, home, snack, Lord, I am tired of the demands! Have I looked at myself in mirror today, did I brush my teeth, need to start supper, homework, when is daddy coming home, can we go next door to play, I love you mommy, crying, bottle, need to get it together, phone calls, please hush, mommy is trying to talk, where IS daddy, help, tired, need a break, fold clothes, cook, rock, rock, rock baby, play candy land, daddy please hurry home.....
Still.... this is my favorite job in the world. Thank you, Father God for my life. Thank you.
"Come to me, all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest"
AMEN.
Happy Thursday and Much Love,
Jennifer

Home again, home again!

2009-01-30T12:54:00.000-08:00

Our sweet baby came home from the hospital (once again!) this week. She is doing much, much better! We are still having a few issues here and there, but she is so much improved. Hopefully we are on the permanent road to recovery this time! Thank you so MUCH for your prayers. God bless you for them!
Having our 3rd little one has been such a blessing... but has thrown me for a LOOP in the scheduling department! Wow. Our home was running like a well-oiled machine before sweet Abigail came along, but now?? We can't seem to get on a schedule! For someone who thrives on schedule and routines, this is more than a little frustrating! Hopefully that will improve soon (probably when she is sleeping more!) but for now I am just trying to enjoy them! I think I may even throw caution to the wind this afternoon and read the pile of books they've been asking me to..... Cleaning cabinets can wait, right?? I hope my desires for a well-run, clean, orderly home don't interfere with spending lots of time just enjoying and playing with them! Such a hard balance to strike!!
They are growing so fast.... wish I could just "freeze frame" them at the ages they are now. *Sigh*. The age old wish of all moms...
Off to enjoy!
Happy Friday and Much Love!
Jennifer

Thank you~~

2009-01-23T21:04:00.000-08:00

Baby Abigail actually had a better day today.... AND we got a "diagnosis" as to what is wrong with her! Apparently, she developed an ileus (paralyzed section of the bowel) after the viral illness. It is causing the vomiting, gas, diarrhea, etc. that she is experiencing. Fortunately, her pediatrician thinks that it will heal itself, but will just take a little time. We will have to be in the hospital with her so that she can receive IV support until she is able to be adequately hydrated from the bottle alone. Her viral counts were still high today, and she does not feel so great..... very fussy..... just gives mommy and daddy and chance to snuggle her a little more, though!! I think the stress of all this has caused some postpartum issues that I was having (that we THOUGHT were resolved!) begin to resurface as well. Hopefully they will go away soon, too!
You are all just precious to me to remember our family in your prayers. You will never know how much that means! Thank you, thank you, thank you! Please pray that we can come home SOON!
Much Love,
Jennifer

Prayers

2009-01-22T21:34:00.000-08:00

I am not sure if anyone still reads this silly blog anymore..... (I am on the waiting list for a redesign, though!!... can't WAIT).... I have felt like blogging again lately!

Right now, though, I would like to ask for prayers for our baby girl, Abigail. She was doing so well after being released from the NICU in November!! She had gained 6 pounds, and was beginning to sleep at night, etc.!! Last week, she contracted what we think (thought??) was a stomach virus. She became very dehydrated and was admitted to the hospital. She seemed to get better and we were released last night. Today, she relapsed again, and we were readmitted to the pediatric unit. She is very dehydrated again, and is back on IV, Pedialyte, etc. Her Doctor thinks now something else may be involved such as an obstruction, or some other GI problem. She is so tiny and it is SOOOOOO hard to see her in the hospital bed and not know what is wrong with her... and to feel helpless to do anything about it!! Please pray for her to get better. I want to bring her home soon!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

A new baby!

2008-11-15T06:07:00.000-08:00

Abigail Jennifer was born Nov. 6th at 1038 pm. She was 6 weeks premature and weighed 4 lbs. 10 ounces, and was 19 inches long. I experienced a placental abruption and hemorrhage (and pre-eclampsia) and underwent an emergency C-section.... praises to GOD alone that we are both here and alive. Our sweet girl is in the NICU, but is doing well. She is now in an open crib, holding her temp, on no supplemental oxygen, and is taking breastmilk from a bottle. We are just waiting on her to gain a little more weight before we can bring her home! I can honestly say that leaving her there is one of the HARDEST things I've ever gone through, but my heart is so full of thanksgiving and praise, it outweighs some of the sadness. Please keep her (and our family!) in your prayers as we continue to heal (and for my blood pressure to continue to return to normal... yikes). Soli Deo Gloria.

Much Love,

Jennifer

Catching up...

2008-09-17T20:45:00.000-07:00

Hello to blogland! It's been awhile, but things have been SUPER busy (and fun!) around here. Andrew started kindergarten (please, someone, ANYONE, tell me how I can have a child old enough for kindergarten!!)

Anna Kate is my little constant shadow every day... I'm trying to do lots with her now especially with the baby coming soon. It has been so much fun! She has started dance class, and is just about one of the sassiest little ballerinas you will ever meet.

We are in the midst of fall basesball, AWANAS, playdates, AND I am taking a big (ger)load than anticipated in the good ol' PTA this semster, but life is wonderful and beautiful and good and full.

..Speaking of the baby... We are having another GIRL! I am just estatic about it, and so excited that AK will have a sister! I know Andrew will do a great job of being big brother to 2 little girls. He is already taking the responsibility very seriously indeed! Little Abigail (yes, that is going to be her first name for sure... middle name?? Still a source of debate) will make her arrival on December 8th. The C-section is scheduled, OR booked, and doctor reserved! I am at 27 1/2 weeks now, and am still feeling pretty good! I definitely have not slowed down yet, but am sure I will start "feeling" it more in the days and weeks to come!

Hopefully soon, I'll get busy on getting this template fixed (on my "to do" list for the next 2 weeks), and things will look a little more "normal" around here... looks a little icky at the moment!

For now, I am celebrating the arrival of fall, cooler days (!!!), my new iced pumpkin candle, and the many undeserving blessings God bestows upon us everyday.

His mercies truly are new every morning.

LIve blogging.....

2008-06-27T15:20:00.000-07:00

Live Blogging from the DEEPER STILL event in Atlanta!! Woo HOO!! I know it's going to be awesome, and we are anxiously awaiting the beginning! Pray for hubby who is running "daddy day care" for the littles!
Much Love,
Jennifer

Up and Down and In Between

2008-06-02T20:41:00.001-07:00

Up- Keeping most of my food down yesterday, and entering my 2nd trimester.
Down- My supper that did not stay where it was supposed to tonight, and charting a 12 lb. weight loss at my doctor's visit on Thursday. Yikes.
In between- The state of my wardrobe. Most all of my regular clothes are too tight (all in the waist, mind you!) despite the weight loss. I guess our little one is (thankfully) growing up a storm anyway. I finally got down the maternity clothes from the attic... and then decided to go on a shopping trip for some new things- lots of sundresses (all COTTON in this heat and humidity!) and flip flops seem to on the menu for the summer.

Happy Monday and Much Love,
Jennifer

The Sickies

2008-05-13T14:52:00.000-07:00

Whoever coined the term "morning sickness" was apparently a little misguided- or perhaps just fortunate. Unfortunately, I have not been among that lucky throng that simply experiences "morning sickness". It HAS, however, been..... Morning, noon, night sickness, and all hours and minutes in between.
I have to say that I am not all THAT surprised as I suffered a little with our Andrew, and QUITE ALOT with our little Anna Kate. I venture to say, however, that this time may be a little worse. I've had to resort to lots of meds to keep anything at all down lately, and still the weight loss is creeping up there.
Today has been, well, better (I am hesitant to even type it). After the threat of being hospitalized yesterday, I had a little talk with God and the "little star" growing inside me, and things calmed down a little last night ( the chicken broth and crackers did not star in a repeat performance)!!! Today the sun is peeking through a bit, and I feel as if I can at least see the shadow of my old self beginning to appear. I miss playing with my kids.... Daddy has taken over cooking (as the sight of food just about sends me over the edge) as well as laundry (at least the clothes are clean!) and we have hired someone to do the cleaning for the next few weeks. Hopefully today is the start of feeling better, and leaving the YUCK behind !!!

Newsy news

2008-04-28T17:16:00.000-07:00

I haven't been around much lately because... I have been quite QUITE under the weather the past few weeks thanks to this little gem .....

That's right... it is a POSITIVE test!
We found out a couple of weeks ago, and are excited as can be (and happily surprised !!!) I just want to feel a little better and for my food to stay where it is supposed to. I've been through this twice already, but had forgotten how NOT FUN this part is. This too, shall pass though, and I can't wait to hit that feel good second trimester! YAY!!

Happy, happy, HAPPY Monday and Much Love

Spring things...

2008-04-10T07:48:00.000-07:00

My own version of a "garden" this year... baby tomato plants (better boys!!), squash and green onions.

Flat of petunias in a yummy pink ready for planters on the patio

A new rose (Knockout!) that will (hopefully?!?) climb and spill over my back fence... and produce the "showers of blooms" promised .

And, finally, a shiner that is healing quite nicely from an overactive 4 year old in the back yard... The joy of a boy!!!

Happy Thursday!

"Southern-ness"

2008-04-01T12:24:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun this past weekend doing this ....

I even got to dress up like this (thanks to Andy's AuntE and some vintage family dresses!!)

...Which almost made me feel like I was living in this !!

7 things meme

2008-03-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by Michelle for this meme.... It has been awhile since I've done one of these, so I decided to play along!

Here are the rules:
1. Link to your tagger and post these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

1. I love to iron, and I iron (and starch) EVERYTHING... ALL of my kid's clothing, mine (Andy's goes to cleaners!!), and Andy's knit pullovers and jeans. I also ironed each individual knife pleat in the skirt of the dress I wore on Easter the night before (don't EVEN ask how long it took, but I am obsessive!!) One of my pet peeves is wrinkled clothing. I.cannot.stand.it. ... Drives me nuts!!

2. I cannot have anything out of place before I go to bed. This means all pillows on couch straight, no toys out anywhere, nothing dirty in sink, etc. Believe me, I have tried and tried to stop doing this, but if everything is not in its' place, I lie in bed and obsess about it, and don't get sleep anyway, so I figure I might as well stay up and do it!! *Sigh* !!

3. I adore children's boutiques and cute kid's clothing. LOVE it. One of my favorite things to do is shop for my kiddos.. just ask my hubby *Wink*...

4. I love history, and old homes and vintage style clothing... love it!!

5. I do NOT like to watch/follow any type of sport. Boorrrringgg...

6. There isn't much that grosses me out... blood, guts, gore, etc.. I think during those years of being a nurse in hospital/ICU, (and as an NP) I have seen IT ALL. Believe me.

7. I also like words and doing "wordy" things.... Crosswords, unscrambling words, seeing how many other words I can make out of one word, learning new words, etc. My husband thinks I'm a nerd!

I tag... anybody that is interested to play along!! Leave a comment if you do!

Zoo Crew

2008-03-25T22:01:00.000-07:00

Our trip to the Big Easy to visit the zoo was GREAT, but very exhausting!!

There is so much to see that it really does take *ALL DAY*! Aaannndddd, to top it off, Andrew had a teeball game to be back for at 530.... let's suffice it to say that after that - everyone crashed.

Great fun and great memories!

This is TYPICAL Andrew... he was just about beside himself with excitement, and was dancing around like crazy!!

Engrossed in watching the camels munch their lunch...

I can't believe they both actually looked at the same time... not both smiling, but we'll take it!

Happy Wednesday and Much Love,

Jennifer

Happy Easter!

2008-03-23T20:58:00.000-07:00

Hope your Easter was wonderful!! We had a great day to top off a great (but extremely busy and hectic!) week. We went to church and spent and beautiful lunch/afternoon with relatives (and even took pictures by their beautiful azaleas, along with managing a family shot) Rare!
I have been so busy sewing new curtains, remodeling both children's rooms and making holiday preparations, that I haven't been around much lately. Thankfully, my plate is much less "full" this week, and life is settling back into its' normal pattern. Hooray! Tommorrow we've even planned a FUN trip to the Audubon Zoo. The kids are super excited and we can't wait either!

Happy Easter and Much Love,

Jennifer

Signs of spring !

2008-03-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

Spring is definitely in the air around here !!

From a little boy making a birdhouse (with a little help from daddy of course!)...

to fat bunnies sleeping on a bed of moss....

to glittery eggs AND robin's eggs adorning the dining room....

Oh, and for a little eye candy, click here to see what Katie has done to decorate for Easter.... just gorgeous!

Dahling, you look mahvelous!

2008-03-10T08:20:00.000-07:00

One can only HOPE that practice will make perfect....

Who? Me???

2008-03-05T16:45:00.000-08:00

Gracious Sallie at A Gracious Home kindly interviewed me for her blog, and posted it today.
Check it out !

Happy Wednesday and Much Love,
Jennifer

Wanted: Self back.

2008-03-04T22:23:00.000-08:00

This is just one of those weeks where I feel SO overwhelmed, and just like I don't have it all together... Can anyone relate?
This is a difficult thing for me to admit. I am ALWAYS organized, on top of things, and I don't like to admit it when if I am not. So There. I admit it, confess it, claim it, OWN it. Thankfully, this doesn't happen very often, RARELY actually, but this week?? yikes.
Case in point....
Monday- Go to jewelry store and pick up bracelet. This was on the TOP of my list. I drove all around downtown and essentially danced around the jewelry store, and what did I come home without?? You guessed it. Bracelet.
Needed jump drive out of computer for something I was working on before I left house. Left self note to remember. Double checked everything except for... jump drive.
I felt like Cathy in the cartoon strip . AAAACCKKKK!
Tuesday- Decided to take nap with kids this afternoon. Oversleep and leave house late to take Andrew to tee ball practice. Get almost all the way to ballfield. Realize don't have baseball glove or batting helmet. Make preschooler cry. Beat my head against steering wheel.
Forget to take meat out of freezer for supper. Am faced with frozen block to try and cook at 4 p.m. AAACCCKKKKKK!
Also, forget to take drycleaning by. Sheesh.

Let's just say my to do list this week???? ... has become my to DON'T list.
For someone who has a little (lot!) of OCD, these past 2 days have been a struggle.
I think I'll pray for my memory to show up again in the morning!!

Apparently

2008-03-02T21:40:00.000-08:00

Yes... apparently disciplinary action taken against her older brother made quite an impression upon the little miss today.
This is the scene I found upon walking by our little foyer (where the "naughty corner" is located!)

Ahem.

When questioned about what transgression her tiny charge committed, her reply (without a moment's hesitation, or even looking up from her play), was
"she Not OBEY SHE MAMA!!!!"

Indeed.

I Wish....

2008-02-28T17:43:00.000-08:00

A while back, PandaMom thought it might be fun if I played along with the little "I Wish" game. I have finally had time to actually follow through! So, without further adieu.... my "I wish" list

-I wish my children weren't growing up so fast

-I wish I had paid attention and tried to learn tatting and how to make those beautiful handkerchiefs from my great aunt G. before she died

-I wish I had a laundry fairy

-I wish I didn't automatically assume "worst case scenario"

-I wish I didn't worry so much

-I wish I had more scripture memorized

-I wish (and hope and pray) my children would grow up to walk in the TRUTH and in the light

-I wish I didn't have post-pregnancy stretch marks

-I wish for my children to have as wonderful a childhood as I did

-I wish people weren't so mean

-I wish some of my closest friends lived closer

-I wish my eyelashes were as long as my daughter's

-I wish our nation would turn to God

-I wish to be more bold in sharing my faith

-I wish I could be disciplined enough to wake up at 5 a.m. everyday

-I wish I were more disciplined about going to bed before midnight!! (Might help with above!)

-I wish I could visit New England every fall

-I wish I could go on a mission trip this year - even something really small

-I wish I didn't struggle with contentment- not just materially, but with myself, circumstances, family, etc.

-I wish I had a vegetable garden

-I wish I didn't crave chocolate and have a sweet tooth!

-I wish I were more patient with those who don't share the same viewpoint as I do

-I wish I had more time to read

-I wish I could bottle up the smell of my littles after their baths and save it forever

-I wish I had a photographic memory

-I wish I didn't cry so easily

-I wish I understood how some men can leave their families

-I wish I had a deep, wrap-around front porch

-I wish people didn't automatically have misconceptions about Southerners, Mississippians, etc. when they really don't have a clue that most of us really are educated, well-read and actually wear shoes.... we just speak a little slower than everyone else.

-I wish my children will be as fascinated by history and geneaology as I am

-I wish I could live in a past era for just one week.

-I wish people would use the word "perhaps" more- (it's one of my favorites)

-I wish people would take more pride in their appearance

-I wish our dog wouldn't dig holes in our grass and flowerbeds

-I wish getting a tan wasn't bad for you

-I wish I hadn't spent so much time in tanning beds when I was younger

-I wish everyone could experience the joy of knowing Christ

-I wish people really prayed for each other more, instead of just saying they are going to

-I wish I could meet so many of you in person and give you a big hug

What do you wish?? If you do a "wish list" leave me a comment and let me know! I'd love to read

Happy Thursday and Much Love,

Jennifer

Fabulousness....

2008-02-26T12:37:00.001-08:00

.... IS that even a word?? Even if it doesn't grace the pages of Webster, it is perfect in describing how our little weekend getaway went! After a quick drop off of the kiddos at Daddy and Mama's we were OFF! Several stops, a cappuccino and lots of road trip music later, we arrived in the Delta.

Here to be exact.

We checked into our fab-u-lous digs, got mugs of real hot chocolate (seriously, real melted chocolate); I dove deep into the amazing linens, while Andy went to "explore"- (Such a MAN thing, don't you think?) I stayed contented there until time to cross the street for our 1 hour massages. Bliss. BLISS, I tell you. After I lifted my wet noodle of a body off of the table and sat in the steam room, I forced myself to get dressed and met A. to go back across the street to prep for dinner.

Dinner=divine. Dining at a former speakeasy with curtained booths and a buzzer to summon the waitress was a different experience to say the least! After a feast on Mississippi farm raised catfish (with the special sauce) and steaks, it was time to summon the shuttle back to our quarters. While we were gone, a good fairy had turned down the beds, and even left chocolate on our pillows to ensure sweet dreams!

Can I just tell you how amazing (did I mention wonderful) it felt to sleep in until AFTER 9 O'clock in the morning. Sure, I did crack my eyes at 7, but it was short-lived. My adventures in dreamland lasted 2 more good long hours. Showers and a lazy pace of getting ready followed. Then came the Southern breakfast buffet by the fireplace. Eggs, cheese grits (my FAV) accompanied by all manners of pork, fruits, frittatas, cereal, muffins, and juices were there for the eating. O.my.WORD. (!!!!)

After all the exertion of morning (HA!) I decided I needed a little rest, and perched myself on the bed with a book and my mandatory second cup of coffee. Andy.... wellll he went to the gym (Just HAS to make a girl feel bad!)

Checking out was followed by perusing small shops, a loooonnngg stroll through a bookstore (with a fabulous selection of southern lit- a favorite of mine!), antiques, jewelry and a children's boutique, and then time to head back to reality.... ALREADY? By this time the afternoon was marching on toward evening, and I began to feel just a wee ( I said a wee) bit sorry for my parents, and began to miss my littles (a bit more than a wee), and we headed south.

More gas, more diet cokes, more road trip music, and a quick stop at my sister's house in the capital city, and we arrived back in home territory, though it was way after dark!

After kisses and numerous hugs and squeals, we discerned that Anna Kate was on hairstyle #452 for the day, (her current phase) and that Andrew had been "hunting bears" with Papa in the woods (numerous times)! All had roasted marshmallows, gotten new toys, and been thoroughly and absolutely spoiled. And to top it all off, Mama had a nice, hot, homecooked meal waiting.... perfect ending, don't you think?

I can't WAIT to go back... and I'm thinking SOON!

Bliss

2008-02-20T20:54:00.001-08:00

My crystal ball tells me that a trip here
and here is in my future! I. can't. WAIT!!
Anyone ever been? Comments? My parents and siblings swear it is the best thing EVAH!
I'll definitely be sharing details and photographic evidence!

Happy Thursday and Much Love,

Jennifer

4 things

2008-02-18T11:51:00.000-08:00

I was tagged for this by my sis-in-law (via email) and decided to join in on the fun!! If you decide to do it, let me know in the comments- I'd love to read!

Four jobs I have had in my life:
1. Nurse on cardiac floor
2. Nurse in neonatal ICU
3. Nurse in Cardiac ICU
4. Nurse Practitioner

(B) Four movies I would watch over and over (or have
watched over and over)
1. Steel Magnolias
2. Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
3. Sweet Home Alabama
4. Gone with the Wind

C) Four places I have lived:
1. My hometown, MS
2. Jackson, MS
3. New Bedford, MA (while on travel nursing assignment)
4. Current town, MS

(D) Four TV Shows that I watch:
1. Jon and Kate plus 8
2. Dancing with the Stars
3. What not to Wear
4. Supernanny

E) Four places I have been:
1. Paris, France
2. Venice, Italy
3. Luzern, Switzerland
4. Munich, Germany

(F) People who e-mail me (regularly):
1. Sister
2. Friend M
3. Friend J
4. Friend C

(G) Four of my favorite foods:
1. Homemade biscuits
2. Chicken and Dumplins
3. Queso Dip
4. Plain Hershey’s bar

(H) Four places I would rather be right now:
1. Beach
2. Getting a massage
3. Getting a pedicure!
4. Nowhere??- (sounds silly, but pretty happy where I am at the moment!! )

(J) Four things I am looking forward to in 2008:
1. Becoming more involved in our new church
2. Summer
3. Vacation
4. Continuing to be entertained by my little lambs!!

Happy Monday and much Love!
>

Sillies

2008-02-17T18:02:00.000-08:00

Apparently (or unfortunately), this attire is entirely indicitive of the weather we've been having in the past couple of weeks....
From the 20s to the 70s and back again, one is not sure whether to dress for the sunshine or the snow!

I guess a bathing suit top (OVER the cover up) paired with the hat and mittens is just the trick. Great job my little 2 year old fashionista!

I laughed until I almost lost my breath over this one. The 4 year old has become increasingly territorial with his, ummm, "art" lately. I guess when you have a Tasmanian devil for a little sister, you become a little protective of your property. At any rate, I found this "sign" attached to his latest masterpiece tonight. Phonetically speaking, I guess you can tell where we are from. (The accent even comes out in the writing.) He really did a great job of "sounding out" the words to spell them, and subsequently marked his sign with his name. Guess we need to work a little on the punctuation! Cracks. me. UP!!!

Happy Sunday and much love,

Happenings.....

2008-02-15T17:58:00.000-08:00

F i n a l l y, this (after much deliberation and gnashing of teeth over the overwhelming amount of choices available)...

has been the scene in our living room (and hallway). Buh-bye, carpet.... hello, beautiful wood. I have been sooo excited for this, and as of yesterday, the project is COMPLETED! Now I have an excuse to look for an area rug!!

These (!!!!!!!)

...were for Valentines Day, along with some other sweet happies....

The sweetest of all being this...

Heart=full.

Happy Friday and much love,

Favorite Randomness (Abbreviated!)

2008-01-23T20:24:00.000-08:00

Favorite kid quote of the week- "I not bad, I just wyy-uld"

Favorite new obsession- These candles (Especially "High Maintenance"!!) Oh my WORD!! Do your senses and favor and get one please.

Favorite soundtrack of all time - Yeah, THAT would be This

Favorite color for decorating- yummy chocolate/espresso brown- especially since our bedroom and bathroom just got makeovers in shades of this color mixed with gold- ummm, ummm, UMMMM

Favorite nail polish (current)- "Have you seen my Limo?*"- by OPI* of course! I am loving the aubergine tones now...

Favorite new store- Plantation* Interiors- FabuLOUS!

Favorite feeling- 2 chubby little hands on either side of my face and a wet sloppy kiss planted firmly in the middle.

Favorite indulgence- Bath-so-hot-I'm-about-to-pass-smooth-out (and the obligatory bubbles, of course) with above mentioned candles and soundtrack--- bliss....!!

Favorite new restaurant- Bonefish*Grill- Yumm-eeee.

Okay, now...What about yours???

Happy Wednesday and

Much Love,

From our family to yours......

2007-12-23T06:37:00.001-08:00

... The Merriest of Christmases and the happiest of holidays! We are (happily) busy gadding about visiting families, attending the festivities of the season and the celebrations of our Savior's birth.

May your holidays be merry and bright!

Happy Sunday and Much Love!

Jennifer

The Holiday princess....

2007-12-18T15:51:00.001-08:00

The Holiday princess (or so her little shirt says) is a bit under the weather, and had to pay a visit to the pediatrician today. Her temperment in the doctor's office matches her hair- WILD. So much so that when she even catches a glimpse of Dr. M., she begins the shrieking..... and shrieking.... and.. well, you get the picture. Thanks to a "lolli", and the passage of a little time, she was right back to her sunny little self. She even took her breathing treatment without so much as a wimper. I HAD to get photographic evidence if only to convince Dr. M. next time we are in the office that she does have other volumes besides, uhhh, loud and LOUDER!!

This afternoon has been a hoot. I embarked upon the annual sugar-cookie-making-from scratch-with-two-little-ones-am-I-losing-my-mind extravaganza with great gusto. Andrew and Anna Kate began with great enthusiam (key word here is began) but soon abandoned me for other loftier pursuits- namely- playing "doctor". I looked over and found this scene in the dining room.

Narration was as follows:
Anna Kate: "Hush you mouf bubbie, no more scweeming" (mind you, Andrew was being quiet as the proverbial mouse)
Andrew: "Dr. Anna my tum-tum hurts"
AKate: "Okay, bubbie, it be awight- here is you edda-sin" (medicine) "Take it wike a fweet boy"
Akate: "Okay, get up- you done" "I SAID get up" "WIIIIGGHHHT NOW"
Ahhhhh- such compassion- let's just hope she's not YOUR doctor in 25 or so years.

Happy Tuesday and Much Love,

Elf Yourself !!

2007-12-13T18:50:00.000-08:00

Click here to see what we had fun with this evening....
Seriously, this was hysterical. I thought our little Andrew would never stop laughing at it!
So, what are you waiting for??.... there's a little elf in all of us just dying to get out!

Happy Thursday and Much Love,
Jennifer

It's been a long, long time!

2007-12-09T13:52:00.000-08:00

YIKES!! It's been quite a while, hasn't it??

No, I haven't dropped off of the face of the earth....

Things here have been, let's see... busy, wonderful, hectic, memorable, crazy, fun (I think that's all the adjectives I'll use for today) but, in short, we've just been living LIFE- and it has been grand.

I miss blogging, though. So, on this lazy (YAY!) Sunday afternoon, I thought I'd make a re-entrance. At any rate, Happy December! See you soon...

Much Love, Jennifer

A few photos of our "fall happenings"

Annual "Salute to the military" (October)

Thanksgiving at Gram's

Fall Ball !!

And so it begins...

2007-09-14T01:43:00.001-07:00

... Football season that is! Even with a little bit of rain during the pre-game "cookout", which turned into a "cook-in", we thoroughly enjoyed the "big game" last night at the college. The kiddos were enamored with the cheerleaders, the football players, mascot, band- the whole atmosphere. Mommy, Daddy and the kid's grandparents were enamored with the cooler temperatures and the cooler breezes that seemed to blow our way. WELCOME Fall!!
Happy Friday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

Prayers

2007-08-09T20:36:00.000-07:00

What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear, what a privilege to carry, everything to God in prayer....
If you are so inclined, please pray for 2 precious, precious friends of mine. They are both near and dear to my heart and are going through some of the hardest things I can imagine right now.
I received phone calls from both of them 2 days ago (these 2 ladies live in different towns and do not know each other) and BOTH of them are dealing with strikingly different circumstances right now. There are children involved, adultery, and more evil than I want to know about. My heart is in anguish for them. Please pray for strength, wisdom and courage for these families in the coming days.
Thanks y'all....

Project Completed!

2007-08-01T11:45:00.000-07:00

Check out the new sandbox (minus the sand!!) that my talented hubby built for our kiddos! I spent about 30 minutes sewing together the awning last night (looks a little funny in the pics 'cause the wind is blowing!) and VIOLA! We're done! Now all that's left to do is move it to the backyard and get the sand. Hopefully by tomorrow, we will be blissfully whiling away the afternoon in our backyard beach!

Happy Wednesday and Much Love,

She and I

2007-07-24T13:34:00.000-07:00

The morning was pretty uneventful. Busy, but uneventful. A trip to the mall, a bit of shopping, seeing the sand sculpture of dinosaurs and riding the carousel. Lunch was Chick-Fil-A, and then home. Andrew, who lately has been favoring "rest time" in lieu of a nap, actually slept today. I heard no noise coming from his room. No animal sounds, no ongoing narration of the books he had stacked in the bed with him. Just my angel boy curled around his beloved Pooh bear, fast asleep.

But that girl of mine, oh that girl of mine. She paced around her crib like a caged animal, alternately snorting and screaming and throwing things out. The floor of her room was a jumbled mess of blankies, bears, babies and the bows that were in her hair. She roared like a tiny lion, called everyone in our family, and then started in on the neighbors. She played peek-a-boo with herself and sang songs. She counted (1, 2, 3, 8, 5, YAY!!) and kicked and grunted. She tried to pull her clothes off to get to her diaper. She spit at no one in particular. I watched the drama from a safe distance, confident that she would finally surrender to the sandman. She did not.

I gave up, and got one tiny, ecstatic girl out of her crib and decided that she and I would have some quality "girl time" while Bubbie was asleep. But THAT was not to be, either. She kept chanting over and over, "Mommy bed, mommy bed, mommy bed". She grabbed her beloved duck blankie and, with thumb in mouth, hightailed it to my room. A glimmer of hope! Maybe that nap would come after all.

We snuggled into the softness and warmth of "mommy bed". " Pink! Pink!" She kept exclaiming at the top of her lungs pointing to the underside of the tester canopy. "Mommy bed, mommy big bed. I big girl. BIIIIIGG BEEEDDDDD". "Mommy, da wolf", "Mommy, da wion" "Mommy Puuuuupppy GOG" Yay" MOMMMMMyyyyyy".... along with a cacophony of other sounds and phrases. She alternated jumping around (on ME~) like a miniature jumping bean and falling down and pressing her tiny body next to mine-- complete with squinting her eyes and making fake snoring sounds! The last time she snuggled was it.

The wee squinted eyes began to relax, the fake snoring subsided and was replaced by the soft even breathing of a sleeping child. Eyes darted back and forth underneath closed lids. Her long, long lashes (inherited from her daddy) rested softly on her sweet cheeks. Her curls spilled across her forehead, a smile flitted across her lips, her hands jerked, and she found her thumb. Even in sleep, she sucked on it for dear life. I watched her and it took my breath away. Images flashed across my mind of all the times I've stood and watched her, watched both of my treasures, sleep. From a tiny newborn, to my fat cheeked baby, to this active toddler that now roams my house.

I thought about just 2 short years ago when I was expecting her. I would put Andrew in his crib, and lie down across my bed with a huge quilt and rest when he did. I was hot and tired, and so very pregnant and swollen. The after lunch siesta was something I looked forward to, and relished. She was there with me then, too. A swift kick, a gentle nudge, the movement of an arm, a leg, or a wee hand. I dreamed about what it would be like to have a daughter. I dreamed of how different it would be from having a son. I dreamed about what she would look like, and how much fun it would be to indulge my love of all things pink and frilly. During those quiet moments it was just she and I.

We revisited that for just a little while today. Just she and I resting in the quiet of the afternoon on that very same bed. I still dream about what she will become. I still pray about the woman she will be. She still gave me the gentle nudge, the movement of her little arms and legs... but this time I was watching her. Those sweet, precious (albeit brief!) moments this afternoon were priceless. The kind that burn themselves into your memory forever. Sweet memories that I hope will be the first of many for she and I.

Organizing bliss

2007-07-13T07:23:00.000-07:00

Anyone that knows me knows that I am constantly decluttering, looking for better ways to organize and compulsively straightening things. I know, I know, it's a sickness, but I get it HONESTLY. My mom and sis are worse than I am (though my husband might disagree with this, he has never lived with the two of them. It can get ugly, y'all !!!!)

Soooo, you can imagine my excitement and absolute GLEE when I discovered this little organizational tidbit buried in the Living section of our paper. I am constantly battling organization in the drawers in our bathroom. I've reorganized, regrouped, bought tiny containers, bought larger containers, etc. Still it is never up to my standards. But NO MORE!!! The article suggested that you think of the things in your bathroom as kitchen utensils/tools/items..... and buy things that you would to organize the kitchen-- such as utensil holders and MY FAVORITE thing of all..... the inner door organizer like the one I have in my kitchen (for Saran Wrap, Foil, sandwich bags, etc. )

You can use it in your bathroom for things like hairspray, hair products, etc. You know, those things that clutter up drawers and under cabinet areas and make people like me crazy!!

Works like a charm, and has made my weekend, I tell you!

Let me share....

Exhibit A

Exhibit B.....

Okay, you know I had to stick a couple of kid pics up!

Little Miss Anna Kate is Lovin' her new outfit from Uncle "John John", and my Andrew is stylin' in some shades (that might be some old ones of mine!) and his Baptist hymnal... totally his own idea (even if it is upside down)

Have a great weekend y'all!!

Happy Friday and Much Love,

Linen Roses

2007-07-11T12:23:00.000-07:00

Y'all.... I came across this idea in a back issue of (what else??) Southern Living (link in sidebar, in too much of a hurry to insert here today!) this morning while "purging" old mags and just had to share.

This is PRECIOUS!!

It's a idea to use for cloth napkins. The photo in the issue shows some bright colored funky ones, but I had some beautifully trimmed antique white ones in a drawer that I wanted to try....

It turned out like this

Isn't that the cutest??!! I tied them with some leftover raffia that I had in my "craft bag" (the article suggested twine, but I was, ummm, fresh out of that!!) . Sooo , when your guests need a napkin at your next little soiree, they can simply "pluck" a flower and unroll. Too cute!

Instructions:

Open napkin flat; then fold the lower left corner to the top right corner. Then, fold lower right corner to the top left corner, forming a triangle. Starting at one corner of the long edge of the triangle, roll it firmly toward the other corner. The result mimics the tight bud of a flower! Tie the "stems" with ribbon or twine, and loosely gather (like a bunch of flowers) in a compote or bowl (I used a low vase). Enjoy!

Taken from Southern Living- 2007

Happy Wednesday and Much Love,

The blog and stuff

2007-07-03T17:51:00.001-07:00

For some reason, my first "blog-o-versary" passed unnoticed by me. I'm not quite sure why? I looked up one day in June and realized that it had come and gone without so much as a fleeting thought from yours truly. Maybe it had something to do with the fact that I don't blog as much as I used to... Or perhaps the fact that I don't think about my blog as much as I used to.

But then I DID start thinking about it. I went back and read my posts from when this journey began and contemplated all that has come and gone in the time between. I know some bloggers have great stories about why they began, or a catalyst they had for starting... HOWEVER, I am still just not quite sure just why I began blogging ( Okay, so how many times can you use the word, or at least the root word, blog in one post????) I think it had something to do with reading a few blogs, and tiring of sending out lots of kid pics via email. I think it had something to do with thinking it was a little bit fun to express myself in writing. I think that I am rambling and racking my brain for reasons that don't exist.

What I do know is this.... it has been an incredible blessing to me. YOU have been an incredible addition to my life. I have "met" so many of you who have encouraged me, prayed for me, befriended me, loved me, and shared in our lives. I know some of you in real life, have MET some of you in real life, or just plain feel like I know you. I have laughed at you until my sides have ached, cried with you or shaken my head in agreement with you. Some of your recipes are in my book, I've watched your children grow, marveled at your projects or just wanted to hug those of you who make me realize that I'm not the "only one" who feels/acts/ sees things/ or REacts a certain way. So thank you. Thanks to all of you for being you.... and for being real.

I don't know what the future in this adventure holds for me. I could be at it until I'm 92.... but then by that time, we should all be able to "virtually" be in each other's living rooms!!! I could decide to quit next month, or next year, or, or, or.......... you get the picture. I've thought about qutting several times (but then I think about allllllll those emails I'd be obligated to - wink, wink). I currently don't post as much as I used to. I don't comment as much as I used to. (please forgive me!) I am still reading, though. My priorities have just changed a wee little bit. I think all of that is okay. I know that I don't ever regret beginning this endeavor, and I can't imagine NOT having done it.

So, happy (late) one year mark to me.... I can't wait to see what the next one holds. I adore all of y'all. You are fabulous women (and maybe one or two of the male persuasion!) and you inspire me daily.

Happy Tuesday, Happy Independence Day and
Much, MUCH love,

FCPA

2007-06-28T20:46:00.000-07:00

...... Ahhh, yes, the Future Circus Performers of America club..... and I think I may just have the first two members! What are they, you may ask? Why, a clown and a trapeze artist (at least from the looks of things!) We took a little jaunt to the circus tonight, and I think the "adults" enjoyed it as much as the kiddies!

Party Girl

2007-06-24T17:00:00.001-07:00

Our little angel marked her second birthday yesterday! Unbelievable. At any rate, we celebrated in fine form with a Tinkerbell party complete with "confetti" pixie dust (that I am STILL picking up out of the carpet!!!), fairy punch, balloons, tulle, family, friends, food and cake.
It was a grand celebration of her little life, and I squeezed her just a little tighter today as I realized my "baby" is growing up! Oh how I want to freeze both of them just like this for now! (BIG sigh)~

You can read her "story" here in the post I did for her birthday last year.
Here are a few pics from her "big day".

Reason #

2007-06-17T20:34:00.000-07:00

Reason # 5,483 that I can tell there is a man in the house again

Yes.... that would be a hedge trimmer... ON MY BED. Nice.

Happy Father's Day!

2007-06-16T22:03:00.001-07:00

Happy Father's Day to my sweet husband and my Daddy.

You are both amazing men and far more than I deserve!

I love you both!

Click here to read my tribute from last year to my daddy... (It still rings true today), and here to read my tribute to my hubby!
You both mean the world to me!

Happy.....

2007-06-14T12:03:00.001-07:00

Happy Flag Day!!

The kiddos are SO happy with their "new" table set... just in time for flag day!!

In reality, the Pooh set was looking rather shabby, so Daddy repainted it, and we added cute wooden stars with their names on the backs of the chairs. Now NO MORE fighting over "whose is whose" and an extra coat of poly really helps with the crayon marks.

Hooray for Old Glory and the USA!

Thoughts from the week.

2007-06-09T22:28:00.001-07:00

My favorite thoughts and phrases from the week....

On mornings ......"Alarm clock bad. Coffee good". (from my mother's coffee mug)

On a daily quiet time.... "A mother of small children gets a dozen unpleasant surprises a day! She needs time to settle her heart with God and be a growing Christian" (Anne Ortlund, Disciplines of the Beautiful Woman)

In song.... "Be still and know that He is God, Be still and know that He is holy. Be still O restless soul of mine, bow before the prince of peace, let the noise and clamour cease" (Steven Curtis Chapman)

Out of the mouths of babes... "Mommy, you are my BEST girl" (Andrew, age 3)

While shopping.... "Ma'am, did you realize this outfit was 30% off today?" (Sales clerk in children's boutique)

In print..... "No! She wept. Oh, God, I'm sorry, I'm so sorry. I'll take it back. I'll do anything...". Yet even as she reached out, the defilement disappeared and he stood before her, perfect again. "I am the way Sarah. Follow me." (Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers)

Happy Weekend and
Much Love,

Hooray!

2007-06-07T06:34:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite blog friends is back !! Joy ( Joy in theJourney) had to take a little hiatus to give birth to her beautiful twins. She also has three other precious children and is wife to a pilot/missionary in Indonesia. Whew! Makes you kinda tired just reading that, huh? She is a beautiful person, inside and out and was a sweet encourager to me during Andy's deployment. Please hop and over and welcome her back.... and prepare to love her blog if you don't already!
Happy Thursday and
Much Love,

Yummies

2007-06-04T21:56:00.001-07:00

Depression glass dessert cups (gotta love that retro green!)
Hydragnea from my Gran's yard (in my favorite "new" inherited silver bud vase)

Detail of a baby bubble outfit I am making for my sweet girl.... To be embellished with delightful embroidery, tatting and more delicious pink braid trim.

Happy Tuesday and

Much Love

One of the many....

2007-06-02T15:05:00.000-07:00

One of the many reasons I love my husband.....

In the middle of scoring and staining our back porch and outdoor patio, and in the midst of a painting project on the kid's table and chair set; he took the time to do one of his MOST UNfavorite tasks of all time... to dig and plant a flower bed for me.

AND instead of complaining about it, after he finished I found a sweet little "chalk message" written on the fence above the flower bed. What a guy.

Happy Weekend and

Much Love,

Vacation!!!!!!!!!

2007-05-25T16:47:00.000-07:00

After a WONDERFUL, fabulous week on vacation to .... D*I*S*N*E*Y we are home!! Now the tasks of unpacking, laundry, and putting my nest back in order are the tasks of the day.... and probably the weekend! We feel so blessed to be a family again and things are falling into place quite nicely here at home. More later!!

Happy Friday and

Much Love,

HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-05-13T07:16:00.000-07:00

Home..... as of 5/10/07 at 0415 hours. Praises be to God!

Happy Mother's Day!

Quilt tents

2007-05-04T15:25:00.000-07:00

It's been a dark, dreary, rainy Friday here in the deep south. After a morning of the gym, errands, and taking Andrew back and forth to preschool (all in the aforementioned rain, mind you!), we had a quick lunch and then naps for the little ones. Unfortunately, the rain and "funder" were worse than ever when they awoke. I faced the daunting task of a very long afternoon cooped up indoors with a 3 year old and a 1 year old that love spending their after nap time outdoors more than anything. Sooooo, I revived an old favorite from my childhood..... the quilt tent. My brother, sister and I spent many a happy afternoon cozied up in our elaborate creations hung between dining room chairs and couches and anchored with mom and dad's heavy old college texts. The one I made today for them was a pretty simple version of the ones of old. Just one quilt, 2 chairs, 3 books and a couch. The sum, however, was one happy little "pirate boy" (who insisted on wearing his costume from last Halloween all afternoon),one happy little toddler girl, numerous baby dolls, books, sippie cups and crayons. Oh, yeah, and one happy mama that played in there with them, reading books, coloring, tickling and throwing household chores to the wind for the afternoon. I can't think of any other way I'd rather have spent it!

Happy Friday and
Much Love,

... and COUNTING!

2007-04-18T22:34:00.000-07:00

We have officially entered the "under 30 days" mark for Andy to be home. In some ways I can believe it and in some ways I cannot. Sometimes I can't believe that he has been deployed since September, and sometimes I halfway expect him to walk through the door at the end of the day. So strange. However we are SO super excited, and my little man is just about beside himself because we are almost done "marking off the days" on his little bedside calendar. I am so glad that this is *almost* behind us and that I will have a partner to share the load again. I am so thankful for my heavenly Father who has sustained me. He is always faithful.

My exercise and fitness regime is going well! The torture from the trainer is paying off, I suppose.... especially when I caught a glimpse of a pretty well defined tricep muscle while unloading the dishwasher today! Who knew it was even there before? Everything is firmer, more toned, and I am down one size since beginning this mission. And that ellliptical machine? Totally my best friend now. Love it. I get to have 45 minutes to jam out awesome praise and worship music on my ipod, read my latest mag or just watch my favorite news channel ...uninterrupted. It is a great break in the mornings that always seems to come just when I need it!

My little Andrew contines to crack. me. up. every day. I have to call mom and dad to give them an update on what he has said during the day every single night! He is absolutely hysterical... but I guess most 3 year olds are because they are just so literal- you know? We were at my grandparents visiting one afternoon last week, and Andrew proceeded to wander around the back porch and yard with my grandfathers "yard hat" (a straw hat) on. My mimi asked him why he decided to wear the hat and he (dramatically) sighed and said, "Well, I'll just tell you what Mimi, I am having a bad hair day today". Where does he hear these things? I don't say that. Needless to say, we HAD to laugh at his expense. I walked into his room this week and found him lying on the rug (not asleep) but with his eyes closed. I proceeded to ask what he was doing, and he replied "Mama, I am pwaying to God 'bout some things and you just reawy don't need to worry bout it". He is a great source of entertainment for me, let me just tell you!
Our sweet Anna Kate (or "Kay-Kate" as she has taken to calling herself) has been ill and vomiting today... we spent the better part of the afternoon in the pediatrician's office, and I think she is a little better tonight. A 21 month old+ many vomiting episodes=much extra laundry for mommy today. Hopefully, no one else will get this!!???

I have SO many things I want to post about... my recent "new" vintage clothing purchases, my awesome pillows and sundress I just finished sewing, etc. Hopefully, time will allow in the next week? Hopefully.

Thanks for all the sweet birthday wishes! I had an unbelievable time, and came back refreshed and renewed... Sleeping late (what's THAT??!) can do that for a girl. The food was Fabulous. Fabulous! Did I mention FABULOUS? Let's just say that the entree I ordered began with the words "Sin city" and also had the words "Garlic, butter, gravy, shrimp, grits" ... need I go on? Oh, the birthday cake, you ask? Yes, that would have been chocolate turtle cheesecake on Friday, and a traditional chocolate with cream cheese vanilla icing and ice cream at the family celebration on Saturday. Daddy and I blew out our candles together (our birthdays are separated by only 1 day) and it was great. I adore birthdays.

Happy Thursday and
Much Love

Another year...

2007-04-13T12:03:00.000-07:00

I'm another year older today and I don't mind a BIT! What a privilege to be alive, healthy and blessed far beyond what I deserve! Each birthday is a blessing and a gift ... I realize this more and more the older I get and the more I see suffering, sorrow and pain in lives all around us.

I was born in the latter half of the 70s, was a little girl in the 80s and a teenager in the 90s. Each birthday was a huge production when I was growing up..... themed parties, Easter egg hunts, slumber parties (where no one slept). I remember eating out of the "you are special" plate at supper, and having a huge breakfast in bed. Mom and Dad always made a big deal out of birthdays. I never tired of hearing the story of the night/morning that I came into the world and mama always told me again every year. After marriage, my precious husband has continued the breakfast in bed tradition, the fanfare, the presents, the cake, the works.

Today has been a little different. I woke up this morning to the sounds of a sweet 3 year old saying "Oh, mama today is you bur-day, you are a BIG girl now, mama!" while covering my face with kisses and singing "Happy Birthday", while a sweet little 1 1/2 year old clapped excitedly. There was no mom and dad here this morning, no siblings sitting on my bed watching me open gifts after my grand breakfast, no husband to give a happy birthday kiss (though phone calls from overseas are VERY sweet). But tonight will be a very grown up birthday party at a very grown up restaurant with my sister and some friends. My parents will be babysitting their grandchildren while their mommy is having the ultimate girl's night out. A very different birthday? Oh, yes. But still a wonderful birthday with every reason in the world to celebrate.
Psalm 139:13
Happy Friday and
Much Love

Easter Scenes

2007-04-09T08:38:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of scenes of what Easter entailed around our house. Sleet on the patio, and cute little outfits that had to be covered up with bulky coats. It was a blessed resurrection Sunday with 2 services filled to capacity with people hearing the wonderful story of hope that Easter brings!

Happy Monday and

Much Love,

Seriously?!

2007-04-06T17:15:00.000-07:00

Thanks to sweet Jenna G for this award! And yes, my first thought was "Seriously"?!

So, thank you, Jenna. You really are just TOO sweet.

...Nominees from me later (I'm a little short on time right now!!)

Happy GOOD Friday and a blessed resurrection Sunday to all of you!

Much Love,

Favorites

2007-04-03T11:10:00.000-07:00

One of my absolute favorite scriptures and one that has been on my heart (and on a sticky note on my bathroom mirror!!) lately is this:

"Thou art my servant, I have chosen thee and not cast thee away. Fear thou not, for I am with thee, be not dismayed, for I am thy God. I will strengthen thee, yea, I will help thee, yea, I will uphold thee withthe right hand of my righteousness"
Isaiah 41:9-10

Isn't that amazing? I think of it everyday when I am at the point that I think I cannot do/handle one more thing... and it always sustains me. What beautiful, wonderful words of life.
What are your favorite verses? Sustaining verses? Life verses?

Happy Tuesday and
Much Love,

New 'Do

2007-03-28T19:46:00.000-07:00

It seems as if lots of people around the blogosphere are getting new "dos", and I got one last night (my stylist works late on Tuesdays) My parents kept the kiddos and it was a wonderful break- lots of girltalk and even a scalp massage! The end result was this. I think I like it. More bangs, razored ends, a flatiron and voila!

In other randomness, here in the deep south, the azaleas are in full bloom and putting on quite a show. Check out this shot of my parent's driveway (taken from my inside my vehicle). Are they not GORGEOUS???

Happy Thursday and Much Love,

Fun Weekend

2007-03-27T12:50:00.000-07:00

Andrew learning the finer arts of fishing with his "Tigger" fishing pole.

This past weekend was such a fun time of relaxation.... no schedule, nothing important to do. It was wonderful. I read a whole book, slept a whole bunch, sat on the porch swing of the cabin and traveled around the reservoir (near mom and dad's) on foot and by boat. We had some amazing food and lots of family and friends around. My only question is .... when can we do it again?

Anna Kate hanging out on the cabin swing

Me, Dad and Anna Kate in the little boat

Greetings from a wayward blogger

2007-03-20T21:14:00.000-07:00

I haven't felt much like blogging lately. Things are clicking along quite nicely here in our household. The usual "busyness" coupled with spring fever, and a need to be outdoors, getting things done around my house, or just playing with the kids have reduced the desire to be anywhere near the computer..... or maybe I've just run out of things to say?? (okay, to any of you that know me in real life, you know that is a big fat JOKE!) I just haven't felt the need to express myself with writing lately, I guess, and it is quite okay. I've still been reading my favorite blogs, of course, but lately my computer time has only been about 15-20 minutes a day, some days none, some days less. I am quite content with it!

We have had some fun times lately, though! I visited with my sis- in- law in the northern part of our state (and the home of Elvis), got some great new finds at a local antique shop, painted my hallway a wonderful chocolate fudge color, got new furniture for my front and back porches, planted flowers (including a wonderfully cheery geranium that greets my outside my back door every morning) and planned our Disney vacation !!

We will be spending this weekend on the water with my family in a cabin. It will entail lots of star gazing, fishing, boat riding, cooking out and kid chasing and I absolutely cannot wait! I might even post a few pics next week ...

I know I am rambling tonight, but don't you absolutely love it when your kiddos are fresh from the bath? I love the bath soap, baby lotion and clean pajamas smell better than just about anything in the whole world. I want to bottle it up and save it. I snapped this pic last week after I got through drinking in their sweet smells after bathtime. I wish I could freeze them in time .....just like this.

Happy Wednesday and

Much Love,

Checkin' in...

2007-03-07T21:58:00.001-08:00

Things have calmed down around here somewhat~ now its just the "usual" craziness!! I am still busy, busy, but my thoughts and time have turned more toward getting projects/things done around the house (I painted an entire room by myself, thankyouverymuch.... a FIRST for me), being tortured in the gym by a trainer, (he has no mercy, NONE I tell you), rearranging, reorganizing, appointments, my new bible study, etc. I actually went into the clinical setting, too, and filled in for a nursing instructor that was in a car accident. It was actually alot of fun! My kids have had loads of fun quality time with me, (ALL) of their grandparents, their great-grandparents and various other friends and relatives lately, too.
Spring is making a first tenative appearance here, and I can almost breathe a sigh of relief. My thoughts have turned to the outdoors and spring planting, and I cannot wait to get my hands in the soil and watch things grow! I feel calmer, my head clearer and so much more focused for the coming days.
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee" Amen and amen.

Happy Wednesday and
Much Love,

Exhaustion reigns

2007-02-26T19:49:00.000-08:00

Exhaustion reigns supreme around here at the moment. Seriously. Maybe I can make it back to the blogging world soon. But for now, I have to do a little better than 5 hours of sleep a night... my body cannot keep up at this pace! If you think of it, and are so inclined, we wouldn't mind prayers on our behalf. I am struggling a bit right now with all that is going on. Hope to be back sooner rather than later!
Happy Monday and
Much Love,
Jennifer

Happenings

2007-02-20T21:20:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone is having a blessed week!
As for us? I am currently drowning in responsiblities and various other "happenings" around here with barely a spare minute!
I had a church gathering tonight, another tomorrow night, missions meeting this morning, a party at our house last night, out of town company this past weekend, then the kids and I were out of town Sun. until Mon. morning. I even had a "mama's night out" consisting of dinner and a movie with some people very near and dear to my heart on Fri. night (There was even a babysitter involved- Hallelujah!) I will be trying to catch my breath before the madness begins again next week in the form of more company here at our house for a couple of nights and 2 (unavoidable) afternoon obligations.
This is an unusually busy time for us, and truthfully I don't like it! I don't feel like I am fulfilling my responsibilities as a homemaker when I am never, ummm, home? It makes me anxious, tired and overwhelmed!! I know that after the next 2 weeks things will calm down though. So I can accept that "this too shall pass", and we shall be back into our happy, predictible little routine that I so love. I can't wait!
So, for now, I'll leave you with some photos of the antics from the our home this past week. My little "Miss Shortcake" is obsessed with her new "glasses", and my little man is doing what he loves to do... which would be to make mommy laugh! Definitely a great medicine these days!

Happy Wednesday and
Much Love,

Put it in the want ads...

2007-02-17T15:54:00.000-08:00

The text of this little newspaper ad reads as follows: (you can click to enlarge if you like)

NOTICE

To the person that came in Jack Bufkin's store last Friday afternoon, January 4, 1957, between the hours of 3:15 and 4:15 and took my purse from underneath the counter.
Will you please be kind to me and return to some place, say, my front lawn or some prominent place, the personal articles that were in said purse such as fountain pen, gold pencil, cigarette lighter, man's band ring and pocket knife. These articles were Preston's and were valued greatly by me.
I would also appreciate your returning the two big one dollar bills as Preston gave them to me years ago- also my keys and personal papers that were in bill fold.
If you return them, I will not have anything fingerprinted.

Minnie Lee Barrett

I found this little gem tucked away in a scrapbook that had been kept by my great-aunt.... Minnie Lee ... while going through some pictures, etc. at my grandmother's house. This great-aunt of mine died before I was ever born, but people still talk about her to this day in the small Mississippi town, not too far from here, where she spent her life. She was every inch the ideal "Southern lady"~ right down to her manners and white gloves. She always gave of herself and her time to her church as well as others, and was much adored by my dad. She never had children of her own, so daddy enjoyed alot of "special attention" from this beloved aunt.

The purse mentioned in the little ad was never recovered, nor were the items that she so treasured. I got just a little nostalgic reading this tiny bit of insignificant history. Nostalgic for simpler times when the big news of the week (month, YEAR?!!) in a sleepy little town was the purse that was stolen from underneath a store counter.
*Sigh*... how times have changed.

My Valentine

2007-02-13T20:28:00.000-08:00

It still hangs in my closet. I saw it again today as I was going through things to place into the box for Goodwill. I contemplated giving it away~ even took the hanger down to view it closer and then replaced it. I'm just not ready yet. I don't know that I will ever be. It's not that I think I will ever wear it again. I know that I probably won't. I really don't even like it anymore to tell you the truth. But I will keep it. It's what I had on the first night we met. The first night we saw each other in the parking lot of that restaurant. The night that you thought I wouldn't show up.

I chose it carefully. Black is always a safe choice for a first date. I added tall boots, sparkly earrings to go with the top and my signature lipstick color. I was so nervous. I almost broke off one of my well-manicured nails on the steering wheel ...tapping it on the way to see you.

The shirt you wore was the same blue as your eyes. I can't get rid of it, either. It still smells like you. I can see you in it, standing there with the biggest smile in the world on your face. I remember what the sleeve felt like against my face sitting on that park bench after dinner. I remember feeling so small next to you.

I remember driving home that night knowing that you were the one that I would marry. I didn't want to take that outfit off because I could still smell a trace of your cologne on the sleeve. I kept it on for a long time that night. I sat in the windowseat looking at the stars and thinking~ about you, us, our future.

I put it on again one year to the day later. We went out to the same restaurant that night to celebrate the anniversary of our first date. We were now Mr. and Mrs. What a difference a year had made. We became engaged 2 months after that first date, had a fairytale wedding and were starry - eyed and in love. We sat at the same table and laughed about things had changed in those 12 little months. What a beautiful change it was.

Here we are. 5 years, 2 kids, and 2 houses later. That same outfit still hangs in our closet. I can't give it away. Not now, not ever. It was what I wore when you walked into my life. There is no advice I would give the girl that wore it. No tips, no suggestions. Maybe I'd just like to tell her to savor every moment, for it only gets better from here. Maybe I'd tell her that she was in for the best days of her life. Maybe I'd tell her to slow down and enjoy it more. Maybe I'd tell her nothing. For there is nothing I would change about our life together. Not one thing. You are my perfect valentine, the final name in my appointment book, my future tense.

Happy Valentine's Day and
Much Love,

Flat Daddy

2007-02-12T21:10:00.001-08:00

Guess what we got in the mail today??? Our very own "flat daddy". (Click

here for a description of what a flat daddy is!) Andy arranged for one to be made and shipped to us, and the kids have been sooooo super excited about it! Flat daddy has taken a nap with Andrew, had a tea party with Anna Kate and eaten supper with us tonight. The funniest thing is that he was going to "sleep" with Andrew tonight BUT.... my little man came stumbling into our bedroom, bleary eyed and sleepy (holding flat daddy) and said "Mommy, he be-wongs in here in the bed with you in the night-time". My sweet little man. So at present, he is lying in our bed amidst the pillows. A little wierd looking, to tell you the truth! Thanks Andy (and to J., another pilot's wife, for her help). Flat daddy is lookin' good.... and we are happy have "you"... even if you are just in 2-D!

Thanks to everyone for your incredibly sweet comments on my previous post. I've decided that posting every 2-3 days will be a good balance for me right now... and maybe more if I have the time, but we'll see!!

Happy Tuesday and
Much Love,

Balance?

2007-02-11T22:52:00.000-08:00

I am going to have to make some decisions about blogging.... soon. My "real-life" is so time consuming and overwhelming right now, that I simply do not have much time to post or really even give a second thought to blogging (or reading many blogs). I love this community. I love all of the support I have been given and friendships that I have made. I never expected any of that, and I really don't want to give it up. That being said, however, I cannot neglect my family and obligations for the "cyber world". When I am on the computer, there are a million and one other things that I *need* to be doing at this point in my life. Simply put, the computer and blogging take my focus away from where it needs to be. I have TONS of things I would like to write about, TONS of posts I would love to do.... but to do them would mean that other things are NOT getting done. Other duties are neglected. Things that would have gotten done in a day stretch into 2 or 3 because more of my free time (what little that I have!!) has been eaten away by the computer! This is something that is just not acceptable to me. I have been given an awesome responsibilty in my home and my children and I simply cannot do the best job of what I have been entrusted with when other things (blogging, etc.) steal away that precious time.

"Do not squander time, for it is the thing of which life is made".

I have prayed about this, and think that I have a solution. You know in Proverbs 3 where it says in ALL your ways acknowledge him? I absolutely believe that in ALL of our ways (situations, conversations, problems) every. single. one. we should acknowledge God, consult him, ask hime what HE would have us do. I don't think blogging is any exception. He DOES care what we do with our time and we WILL be accountable for how we have handled/what we have done with the time we have been given. I don't think that I will give up blogging, but I do know that the time dedicated to this venture will be less than it has been in the past. It has already diminished some by necessity! I post much less now than I did in the past- not because it has been a concious decision- but because the time to do so simply has not been available. So bear with me, dear friends, as I find my new "groove" on the wonderful world wide web. I am thankful for each and every one of you, and pray that you have a blessed week.
Happy Monday and
Much Love,

Housekeeping

2007-02-08T21:20:00.000-08:00

I thought I would change the mood a bit here, and introduce a rather "highbrow" discussion here at MG.
Let's start off with the question of ...
What is the best remedy that you have for removal of soap scum from a glass shower door?
Seriously! Yes, I know this is a rather boring and mundane topic, but it IS one that is driving me absolutely nuts! After spending hundreds (yes, this is an exaggeration) of dollars on cleaning products, I still cannot get that door clear!
Any comments, remarks, suggestions that you have on the subject would be much appreciated. Help me out!

In other news, Miss Anna Kate's tooth has "tightened up" in its' socket. It IS crooked, but I am just so thankful and happy that it is actually there. I can take the crookedness in her wee little smile; after all it is just a baby tooth! Thanks so much for your kind words and prayers.

Busy, busy days ahead. Days full of starting a new bible study, birthday parties, choir preview practices, and family dinners. Days that remind that these really are the good ol' days.

Happy Friday and
Much Love,

Wordless Wednesday- Sisters

2007-02-07T08:28:00.000-08:00

(well maybe a few words!)

....Sisters... circa 1984 (I am on the right) in dresses handmade by our mom.

Valentine's Fun

2007-02-06T21:20:00.000-08:00

My little man has begged and begged me to "make Balen-times" with him. I relented and went by the craft store for stamps, ink, blank cards, glitter and stickers. We had a blast doing them ! .....And the smile on his face?? Totally worth all the glitter stuck in the grout- glue washed out of hair- and- ink under the fingernails in the world. Here are a few of our "Balen-times".

Happy Tuesday and

Much Love,

Now THAT'S entertainment!

2007-02-05T11:56:00.000-08:00

Apparently, Andy has become quite the "dart thrower" while overseas. You know the scenario.... when a bunch of guys are hanging out in an office, and don't have anything else to do (you know like FLY MISSIONS!!) they all hang out and throw darts. You KNOW that I am just kidding!! Actually Andy has been so busy lately that he barely has time to talk/email... which makes me think that perhaps this was just a "stress relief" break, right honey??

That being said, here is MY man in action. Pretty good form, don't you think??

Happy Monday and

Much Love,

*** Please remember our little Anna Kate in your prayers today if you are so inclined. She fell in the bathroom last night and hurt her mouth badly on the tile floor in their bathroom. We had to visit the pediatric dentist today, and are praying that she doesn't lose one of her wee little bottom teeth- it is hanging on by a thread! Thanks so much....

Before and after

2007-02-03T21:05:00.001-08:00

HERE it is!! The finished "baby doll crib" project.
I showed y'all in this post a peek of the bedding I was making for the baby doll crib that was mine as a little girl. That little crib started out a darkish stained wood (so very "80s" looking, doncha think?) that I painted white.... after a coat of primer and 3 topcoats! I made the little "sheet" of the pink gingham, and the blanket of pink gingham and leftover white eyelet from the bassinet cover and a wee little white eyelet pillow. And what does our sweet girl think of it? LOVES it. LOVESSSSS it. My dilemma now? Oh, just keeping a certain little 19 month old OUT of the crib with her babies. Check out the photographic evidence!!

Happy Saturday and
Much Love,

Andrew-isms

2007-02-01T08:16:00.000-08:00

These are my favorite (and funniest) recent Andrew-isms from my favorite little 3 year old in the world!

Walked into living room wearing plastic construction hat and carrying plastic tool box. Exclaims "Mommy WOOK.... I am a big construct-er may-un"

When seeing a picture of yarn on his "ABC" floor puzzle, exclaims "MAMA! It's kitty cat balls"

Mommy calls Andrew to come here.... Andrew walks into room and says "What is it my child?"

Finds toothpick, sticks it in his mouth and says "Hey folks, I'm Daddy"
note: his Daddy has a penchant for toothpicks, obviously

Mama and Andrew are reading a book at bedtime.
Mommy says, "Okay, we are going to read the Tale of Jeremy Fisher" (who is a frog) (by Beatrix Potter).
Andrew sighs heavily, throws his hands up in the air and says "Mama, you are just so silly, you know frogs don't have tails"

Mama: Andrew would you like some hot chocolate with Mommy
Andrew Ummmm..... what about just some regular ol' cold chocolate?

Andrew "MOMMY we forgot to take my bottom-may-uns.
Me: "WHAT?!?!"
Andrew "You know mommy, in the cabinet with the silly ma-un on da bottle"
Translation (after a little research).... He was referring to his Flintstone VITAMINS.

When I lost my keys and was just frantically searching for them.... Andrew taps on my leg and says "Mama, I think you just need to stop and pw-ray and ask Jesus to help us find those keys. He will help us Mama, I promise, "

A:Mama, you telled me that this bo0-boo would leave a "scarf" on my hay-und.
Me:Yes darlin, it will probably leave a little scar.
A:But, mama, my hay-und doesn't need a scarf, it's already warm

Out of the mouths of babes....

Happy Thursday and
Much Love,

Fatigue and good things

2007-01-31T17:56:00.000-08:00

I am soooo absolutely positively exhausted. This week and last have been 2 of THE most hectic weeks yet since Andy has been gone.... which is a good thing in a way. I went to my parent's home at the end of my (almost) last guest lecture at the college today because my kiddos were there. Sometimes nothing brings more solace when you are bone weary than to walk into a warm house full of people that you love. It was like a balm to my very soul to come into that cozy environment with the candles burning, fire ablaze (a staple in the wintertime) and the smell of home cookin' on the stove. Home cookin' to the tune of... roast, rice, gravy, sweet potato casserole, sweet tea, butterbeans and biscuits. It took me back a few years to when I lived at home. Back to the wonderful-ness of being taken care of, loved and enveloped in the warm presence of family. A good thing? Most definitely.
Now we are back at our home with our tummies full, minds relaxed, and the sweet aroma of family still lingering. The next good thing for tonight? Climbing into that HOT bath that is running as we speak in my swimming pool of a bath tub. Complete with bubbles, candles, and a very large mug of spiced tea, it will be a VERY good thing and a good note on which to wind down my day.

Happy Wednesday and
Much Love,

Winter Beauties...

2007-01-28T14:55:00.000-08:00

...From my great-grandmother's "antique" flower collection in the yard. Though she died a few years back, my great-aunt and great-uncle still live in her home. This rambling 100 year old home (which is only about 2 miles from mine) with its' old fashioned flowers is where we gather with extended family for a good-old fashioned Southern meal, or"birthday dinner"one Sunday a month.
We picked these while over there this afternoon. These beautiful flowers that remind me of her... the sweet, perfume-y narcissus and the soft delicate camellia. These little ladies clothed in their winter best are adorning my dining room table now. I think they look just perfect.

Happy Sunday and
Much Love,

PS. For any of you that would like to participate in another "pet naming"~~~~ Click here to help my teenage cousin name his guinea pig.

Pink Gingham....

2007-01-27T12:26:00.000-08:00

...Baby doll bedding. The perfect project for a cold, rainy Saturday while the little ones are sleeping. Just me, the hum of the sewing machine, the rain and a big mug of hot chocolate. Bliss.

This project is in the works because of the recent inheritance of the baby doll crib I had as a child (which is currently residing in the garage awaiting me to paint it tonight).

More to come.

Happy Saturday and

Much Love,

Tip of the day

2007-01-23T14:04:00.000-08:00

Boiling water poured down a toliet when repeated vigorous plunging has failed will melt the crayons that were shoved into said toilet by 3 year old, thus unstopping it and preventing further overflow.
Don't ask me how I know.

Happy Tuesday and
Much Love,

"The winner is".... and other news

2007-01-21T21:17:00.000-08:00

First of all, let me just say a big huge "THANK YOU" to all of you that submitted names for my sister's new little pup. The big news is that Miss Indecisive (aka sister) has finally chosen one of them (Hallelujah chorus playing in background).

...And the winner is LUCY... submitted by Big Mama (who just happens to be one of my absolute favorite bloggers). Congrats girlfriend! You can now offically add the title "dog namer" to your resume!

We've had a fun, relaxing weekend here. Andrew spent Friday night and Saturday with my mom and dad. I think he actually spent most of it with Dad seeing as how how followed him everywhere and insisted on doing everything daddy did. Anna Kate and I had a quiet Friday night and Sat. here at home where I managed to accomplish about 101 things that I had been meaning to do all week! It really is amazing how QUIET the house was with just one of them here. We met everyone out Sat. night and had a nice family dinner at a local restaurant. I actually got to you know, um, EAT, too since there were about 10 other pairs of hands to help with the littles. Nice.

I probably won't be around much this week, (though I AM going to do that meme, Michelle!!) because I will being doing some guest lectures at the community college (as a favor to my mom!) on cardiac nursing for the RN students. I am SO excited because I love, love, love to teach, plus it is my area of expertise! A nice little diversion, though I am quite sure by the time the week is over I will be more than happy to return to my "adventures in mommy-dom" here at home. Sadly, the gym will still be waiting for me in the mornings. It doesn't take guest lecturing as an excusable absence. *sigh*.

Hope everyone is off to a great start for this brand new week!!

Happy Monday and
Much Love,

No pain, no gain?

2007-01-20T07:22:00.000-08:00

I hurt. No I mean I really HURT. My legs are so sore that crossing them is a chore. My upper arms.... feel like jell-o. My abs? Let's just don't even go there.

Why you may ask? Why the tortue, why the dripping sweat, why the PAIN (oh sweet heavens, the pain) The answer is partly to attain a previous level of fitness from when Andy and I were first married. The rest of that answer? To look good for my superfit husband AND finally put to rest the taunts of the pre-baby jeans that hang in my closet.

You see, my weight is not really all that different from BK (before kids) but the distribution? Ummm.... yeah, things have shifted just a little. And I refuse, REFUSE, I tell you to yield to the mommy mush that my muscles want to settle into. So the gym (wretched, awful, hateful) has become my new best friend. The miles that I am running on the treadmill have slowly begun to increase and reached a new high yesterday (hence the PAIN), as I am cheered on by my sweet baby girl watching through the glass door of the gym nursery. And I hate every second of it. I know that there are those out there who love to exercise, and I applaud them, even envy them! I, however, am not wired that way. BK, I used to run about 5 miles a day, I belonged to a gym, I hired a personal trainer... not because I enjoyed it, but honestly? ...Simply for selfish reasons. My motivation now, however, is quite different. It is a sacrifice born out of conviction that I am making for my family... my husband and my children.

I have become very convicted lately about taking care of my body AND what goes in it. Convicted about being a fit, active mama for my children. Convicted about being a fit, active wife for my very fit husand! Convicted about putting JUNK into my body. Convicted about abusing the temple that God has given me. With LOTS of prayer (mostly asking for discipline and endurance) when I want to snuggle back down into my heavenly bed... I am making progress. Not in my own strength, mind you (you know that whole verse about the spirit being willing but the flesh being weak... that would be me) but through HIM being strong IN me. And in that strength... I can never fail.

So, I'll keep running along on that treadmill, working those arms and abs and enjoy that sweet reward of exhiliration that comes after a hard workout. And the end result will be?? Oh, totally worth it. I don't care if I never have the body of a supermodel... I just want to be the best ME that I possibly can. To feel good, to be able to be the best wife, the best mommy, the best servant for His kingdom, and to quite simply be my best self.

"Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body," (1 Cor. 6:19-20).

Happy Saturday and
Much Love,

I'm so glad I'm a part...

2007-01-16T20:14:00.000-08:00

... of the family of God. Remember that little song? We used to hold hands "across the aisles" and sing that during benediction time ( or fellowship time) at the church where I grew up. Sunday after Sunday, we sang those words with little thought given to the actual meaning. I think it has been only as I have "grown up" and gotten a little older (and hopefully wiser!) that I have understood their profound meaning.

Since Andy has been gone, our church family has been amazing. AMAZING. They have loved on us, prayed for us, sustained us, called me, come to our home, kept our children ... you get the picture. Andy and I prayed about finding someone (preferably an older woman) to come into our home as sort of a "mother's helper" during the week. We could find no one willing to do this, but kept praying anyway. Out of the blue, one of our church members (an older, widowed lady) called me and said that God had laid it upon her heart to help me with my children while Andy was away, and could she come the very next week? Wow. I was so amazed at this... but why was I? Don't I have a heavenly Father that loves me enough to do this for us? Am I not a member of HIS family? Doesn't he hear the prayers of those who are his. Yes, yes and YES!

Our pastor and worship pastor (and their wives) constantly check on us and pray for us. Our life group has been wonderful. I know that TRULY I could call upon any one of them ... even at 3 am and they would be here without questions asked. So many church members tightly embrace me and my children every single Sunday and whisper words of encouragement and prayers to me. At our last WMU meeting, one of the members prayed over us. Just today, a precious lady (who has recently suffered much personal tragedy) told me how she prays for my husband nightly and remembers our family daily. Another church member is giving me a book of devotionals for wives "on the homefront". One of the local chaplain's wives took me aside last Sunday to tell me that her small son prayers for "legions of angels" to surround "Mr. Andy" every single night when he says his prayers. And all of you. The encouragement and prayers you have sent our way have been unbelievable.

The family of God. The family of GOD. How amazing to even type that. How amazing to be on this journey as a FAMILY of fellow believers with God as our Father. How that family of God has ministered to us. Isn't that what being part of a family is all about... lifting each other up, praying for one another, forgiving one another, LOVING one another. What an awesome, awesome blessing. Yes, I am so glad to be a part of the family of God.

I'm so glad I'm a part of the Family of God
I've been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His Blood!
Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod,
For I'm part of the family,The Family of God

(words and music William Gaither)

Amen.

Happy Wednesday and
Much Love,

Topiaries

2007-01-15T22:22:00.000-08:00

After seeing several tutorials on how to make a topiary, I decided to tackle the project myself this evening. I bought the supplies while at the craft store today, and put the whole thing together in about 20 minutes. I placed a block of floral foam in the small pot, cut a dowel rod in half (painted it with transparent brown paint) then placed in the middle of the foam in the pot. I placed moss on top of this and then glued moss to a styrofoam ball. The ball was placed atop the painted dowel rod and then I tied a raffia ribbon around the pot (intertwined 2 different colors)... and viola! A sweet little topiary (for only about 5 dollars!). SO easy, fun, and a great addition to our dining room table.

Happy Tuesday and
Much Love,

Can't believe..

2007-01-13T20:46:00.000-08:00

.... That I forgot to show y'all my new rug that Andy sent me from Iraq !! I got it for Christmas, and was absolutely THRILLED with it to say the least. It is the softest, thickest most plush rug I've ever felt, and has lots of neat Arabic characters on the back to attest to its' authenticity! I put it under my new sweet antique cabinet in my kitchen area, and think it looks just perfect there. Now we just have to focus on keeping apple juice and milk stains far, FAR away!

** Update on the "name game" from the previous post. A. (my sis) has narrowed it down to 3 of the names from the suggestions y'all have given her! She was thrilled with all of the comments, and I'll reveal which name she chose as soon as she tells me! Thanks a million for participating! **

Happy Sunday and

Much Love,

Name That Puppy!!

2007-01-12T11:05:00.000-08:00

Help! My sister just got an ADORABLE new little (tiny) puppy. She is half minature poodle and half shih tzu. After bantering about names for quite a while, no one in the fam can come up with a name that quite "fits". So, dear readers, we are asking for suggestions! Here is her pic to help you in the process. Is she not just the cutest thing? So, comment away, and help us out!

Happy Saturday and

Much Love,

Fashion Statement and other ramblings

2007-01-09T22:33:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when an (almost) 4 year old dresses herself.
I laughed until I couldn't at this picture of my little niece sent to me by her mother today. Is she not the CUTEST thing?? Thought this might make y'all smile, too!

We've been busy around here. A picture taking session of both kids turned into a 3 ring circus when our tiny princess decided all she wanted to do was suck her thumb and lie down upon the backdrop *sigh*. In the end, at least she decided to look in the direction of the camera while sucking that thumb. She was quite mad at the whole ordeal, I believe, but was placated later with a nice dish of vanilla ice cream. Older brother? A complete DOLL during the session. Thank goodness or I am sure that I may have been driven mad!

Speaking of madness... I have been much engrossed in a 700+ page book about the life of Mary Lincoln.. she is actually very fascinating and was even commited to an asylum for the insane by her own son. Unbelievable. If I have never mentioned it, I am quite a voracious reader. The downfall of that is I want to stay up all hours of the night reading (like I did BEFORE I had children)... and one is apt to be extremely tired, cranky and run down feeling after such nights. Perhaps it is a good thing that I also read rather speedily so that there are not so many of said nights!!

Any thoughts on small (preschool) brothers and sisters sharing a bedroom?? I have seen several setups of this lately in some of my favorite decorating/merchandise magazines for children (Pottery Barn Kids being the most recent as it came in the mail today). The decorating schemes are just precious! Lots of gingham, monogramming and sweet rugs and window treatments. I have been contemplating this, and am not quite sure yet as to what I think of it. We certainly have the room for them to have their own rooms (as they do now)... but just a thought. Any input?

Hope all of you are having a wonderful week! For me, it feels absolutely wonderful to be settling back down into our routines after the busy and hectic holiday season!

Happy Wednesday and
Much Love,

Total and complete randomness...

2007-01-05T20:14:00.000-08:00

1. I finally got my "new" antique china cabinet today. I bought it the day after Christmas at an antique shop in the town where my parents live. And, let me just tell you, Dave Ramsey was right. People really will take significantly less for an item if you are willing to pay in cash. I was shocked that this really works! Sooo.... I am loving my sweet little purchase even more. I already have my "big" china cabinet in my dining area, but was looking for something kind of small and somewhat inexpensive to put in my kitchen for pottery. I love finding things like this!

2. I talked to my husband today... YAY! It was wonderful to hear his voice. They are all doing well, but morale is pretty low there right now, I think. One of the injured soldiers (and my husband's good friend) was flown out of the country to a military hospital in Europe today for further treatment and surgeries. His wife is my sweet friend, and she will be flying out to see him soon. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. They are good friends of ours and have 2 sweet LITTLE boys.

3. It seems as if Anna Kate has developed a fascination for the garbage can!!! Just today I had "misplaced" several items, and for awhile this afternoon thought I was literally losing my mind over what in the world I could have done with these things. Seriously. I was beginning to wonder about myself. Tonight while bagging up garbage, guess what items I found amongst the banana peels and coffee filters? Ahhh, yes... a dry erase marker, the pieces to Andrew's elephant puzzle (which was the source of a near meltdown this afternoon), a new pack of stickers, my favorite writing pen and a tube of lip gloss. I am raising a tiny thief!! Let's just say at this age she is into everything... and more.

4. My dear friend, M. gave me the most amazing CD that I have to share with all of you! It is called "Motivating your Man God's Way" from he Love and Respect Marriage conference by
Dr. Emerson and Sarah Eggerichs. Click here for their website. Wow. WOW! It was just awesome. Maybe that's the reason why it is the #1 broadcast for Focus on the Family. If you are married (or even preparing for marriage) you have to listen to this!

5. I had my "annual visit" this morning... Yeah, that one. You know the one where you are only partially clothed in a room that only a polar bear would be comfortable in, and the one where you are stuck waiting in said room for oh, let's say 30 minutes or more? Quite, quite lovely. The only nice surprise was that I've lost weight and I haven't been trying... unless you count endlessly running after 2 "angels" 24/7. Hey, whatever, I'll take it.

6. On my current reading list? Taking Care of the "Me" in Mommy, by Lisa Whelchel. Highly, highly recommend.

7. One of my dear friends and her little ones are coming to stay with us tomorrow night. Can we say 7 o'clock is looking quite nice for a bedtime for the little ones, and not cooking and ordering lots of pizza and cheesesticks is looking even nicer? And nicest of all will be watching a movie with no interruption and REAL LIVE adult conversation after bedtime. You know, as opposed to me walking around talking to myself which has been the norm around here since Andy has been gone. This is my version of girls gone wild, I tell you!

8. I am so thankful for every one of your thoughts and prayers over the last 2 days. Y'all are wonderful... have I told you that lately?? Seriously. Please continue to pray for the safety of our men (and ALL the ones serving) until their return. God Bless the USA.

9. Is this not the sweetest little three year old boy you've seen in a while? Okay, okay, maybe in just the last hour or so, but I can't help being biased? Aren't I supposed to be as a mommy? He is "modeling his zippies" (his words, not mine, in reference to his zip -up pajamas) Anyway, he has been a.b.s.o.l.u.t.e.l.y. hysterically funny tonight. Don't believe me? Just ask my mom, dad, sister, grandparents, and all the other people he has called on the phone tonight. I was REALLY wiping tears out of my eyes and laughing the slient laugh (you know how you are laughing so hard that no sound comes out..??) when he was talking on the phone to mom and dad tonight. I only wished I'd have recorded it. The boy is funny. He is SO DRAMATIC with all his gestures and facial expressions... hmmmm... wonder where he gets that from (tee hee)!

10. This has gotten ENTIRELY TOO long, and my apologies to any of you that are still reading. This really is THE most random post I have ever done~~ (but FUN!)

Happy Friday and
Much Love,

An incident

2007-01-04T09:28:00.000-08:00

I don't know how much I am at liberty to disclose, so I'll err on the side of caution here...
There was an "incident" involving some soldiers/friends/fellow pilots of my husbands and my hubby's unit (along with some other soldiers). It was very scary and they could all use our prayers. There are some that are wounded and hospitalized. Please, please pray for all of them right now. They all really need it. Pray for us, the families back home, as we come to grips once again with the danger that they are in every single minute. Please pray for their safe return. Thanks from the bottom of my heart.

An audio shout out !!

2007-01-03T14:32:00.000-08:00

After my dear blogging friend, Susan P., did this I decided to do it too! What is it you may ask? Welll, it is an audio recording of my voice with a greeting to all of you. Please NO making fun of my accent!! I guess after this you'll all know why everyone knew I was NOT a local the second I opened my mouth while doing travel nursing in Massachusetts!!
Enjoy!
http://www.gabcast.com/casts/6166/episodes/1167863391.mp3

Happy Wednesday and
Much Love,

Back to our regularly scheduled programming....

2007-01-03T07:07:00.000-08:00

At the "in-laws" last week... Photo credits to Aunt Gigi

Hello to all of you!! I think that now we are finally back in the world of "normality" (what IS that, anyway)?? At least I should say that all our world traveling has come to an end, the Christmas decorations are gone (except for the naked tree in the living room that will go to its' home in the attic today), I actually FINALLY got to sleep on that awesome new featherbed my sis gave us for Christmas (BLISS!!) and we are back on some semblance of a schedule. Whew. The past 2 weeks have been a whirlwind!! I can't wait to catch up with all of you... my bloglines feeds were FULL yesterday!

Today I am working on our New Year's "goals" for our family this year. Andy and I set (attainable) goals for each family member, laminate them, and display them on the side of the fridge so that we can actually review them from time to time throughout the year. I have to say, doing it this way has given us a pretty good track record of attaining them!

Speaking of Andy... check out Mr. Skinny (He is the one in the middle, by the way). My dear husband has lost around 30 lbs. since being in the big sandbox! He is 6'3" and was not really overweight before... and I thought he looked absolutely great, but he looks great now, too!! I think he has become somewhat of a "gym junkie" since being over there... AND a healthy eating junkie. Way to go, Andy!

Hopefully, I'll be back to regular posting and reading now... I've missed everyone!
Happy Happy New Year to you all.
May your 2007 be blessed!

Happy Wednesday and
Much Love,

Checkin' in...

2006-12-28T09:48:00.000-08:00

We had a MOST fabulous Christmas... stayed at my parent's until just yesterday!! There was much fun, laughter, staying up late, eating, catching up, etc. Today we are headed to the in-laws until New Year's... just a 2 hour trip, but I need to hit the road! Hope everyone is doing well, and I'll check in with all of you after the New Year!
Happy Thursday and
Much Love,

Update

2006-12-22T21:50:00.000-08:00

** Photo of my 2 little ones "dancing" with their GREAT-grandfather (My mom's father) at my grandparent's house this afternoon to and old Hank Williams record. It was hysterical.

Just wanted to post a quick little update on how things were going. My dad's surgery went well, though they are having a really hard time managing his pain. This is saying a LOT for a man who (about 10 years ago) sustained life threatening abdominal injuries after being impaled onto a tree along WITH a broken leg and multiple surgeries who hardly EVER complained (an unbelievable story for another day). So if dad says he is in pain, you'd better believe he is IN PAIN. Things finally settled down somewhat today, but they are a little worried about infection in his incisions (there are 4). He is being a trooper like he always is, but your continued prayers would be welcomed.

We celebrated Christmas with my mama's family (her parents, siblings and their families) this afternoon. We had such a great time, and the kids got in bed a little late tonight. My mom and sister were over here at our house when we were doing baths, and mom and I both thought little Andrew felt a little warm. So, out came the ol' thermometer.... and the dratted thing gave us NOT GOOD news. 101+ fever. Down the hatch went the Motrin, and the fever soon followed suit. I investigated his throat, and discovered that he has pus coating his tonsils. How LOVELY!!! This, of course, means a trip to the pediatrician at the weekend clinic at 8 a.m. tomorrow morning for a strep test. I know a grand time will be had by all as I coddle my sick boy and chase my live wire of a daughter around the waiting room! We are supposed to go to my other grandmother's house at noon tomorrow to celebrate Christmas with my Dad's family, but we'll have to see how things go. My little man may be in isolation so as not to infect his other little cousins. I'm quite sure pharyngitis is a Christmas present that they DO NOT want!

We also had a little excitement after the fever fiasco tonight that included breaker boxes, a sink disposall that quit working and a MOUSE in the dog's food. So help me, I thought I was going to faint about the mouse part. I get the pricklies just thinking about it now. Ewwwww.

Everything aside, we are still super excited that it is almost Christmas; and so thankful for the blessings we have received this year. Thanks to all of my sweet friends and family who have called and emailed in the last few days to check on us. I am SO thankful for every last one of you.

I'll leave you with the lyrics of one of my favorite Christmas songs. I actually will be singing this on Christmas Eve at our church. The words and music are so beautiful, and if you ever need to hear a song that will just quiet your soul, listen to this one. All IS well. Let us rejoice.

All Is Well
Words: Wayne Kirkpatrick
Music: Michael W. Smith

All is well all is well
Angels and men rejoice
For tonight darkness fell
Into the dawn of love's light
Sing A-le
Sing Alleluia

All is well all is well
Let there be peace on earth
Christ is come go and tell
That He is in the manger
Sing A-le
Sing Alleluia

All is well all is well
Lift up your voice and sing
Born is now Emmanuel
Born is our Lord and Savior
Sing Alleluia
Sing Alleluia
All is well

All is now Emmanuel
Born is our Lord and Savior
Sing Alleluia
Sing Alleluia
All is well

Happy Friday and
Much Love,

Merry Christmas!

2006-12-19T20:46:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas!! I don't know if I will post again until after Christmas... I may, but we'll just have to see. Things are getting busy around here, and there is so much to do.... and little time for the computer. We are doing okay, but frankly, this has been a really, really hard week for me. I am doing my very best to be positive for my children, but oh! it is hard. I don't really feel like writing much tonight.... or reading for that matter, so forgive me if I am not stopping by your blogs until after the holiday... I am just so tired and a little sad. I am thankful for all of my dear blog friends, and wish you a joyous and blessed Christmas!
Happy Tuesday and
Much Love,
***Edited to add*** If you are so inclined, would you please pray for my dad, as he will be having surgery in the morning (Wed. morning) to repair a very large tear in his rotator cuff? We'd all really appreciate it! Thanks- J.

Inspiration

2006-12-17T20:55:00.000-08:00

Since the inception of my little blog, I have fielded TONS of questions about the inspiration "behind the name" ... Mississippi Girl. And yes, the most famous of all "Mississippi Girls" ... Faith herself, did have an influence on the name. I do love that song! And yes, I have been to Star, Mississippi (for the record, it is located about 20 miles from our capital city, where I lived for several years). And yes, my dear college friend S. did have a boyfriend whose babysitter was the beautiful Ms. Hill when he was younger. And yes, my friend L. has seen her "ride her kids piggyback". And yes, I have driven by the beautiful new home she has built for her parents. And yes, I love her music... (well, most of it, anyway).
But I just felt this "Mississippi Girl" moniker described ME. I'm a 10th generation Mississippi girl... from a long line of Mississippi Girls I hope to emulate each and every day. I admire their strength, their courage, their faith. Faith that withstood losing husbands in wars and children in tragedies. Lives that have inspired me, encouraged me, and touched me. Hands that have taught me. Young and old, some here and some gone, I remain the sum total of all that these "Mississippi Girls" have made me. So this name is, in a way, for them too.
I have a deep and abiding love for her... this state of mine. I love the soft southern twilight, the humid nights, all the breathtaking beauty of this moss hung, magnolia scented state in which I am so privileged to live. And I wouldn't change it for the world. She is my Mississippi. And I am most definitely her girl.
*** Crank up those speakers and have FUN with this video!!
Happy Sunday and
Much Love,

Christmas Bloggy Tour !!

2006-12-14T21:24:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our home! Many thanks to Boomama, for being our gracious hostess. We hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season so far!

The first stop on our holiday tour is the little nativity scene that my grandmother gave me several Christmases ago. This is, after all, the reason we celebrate! I love the "uniqueness" of this little set... it is all in one piece, and love the soft glow. I have another one with "moveable" figures that the children love, but this one is MY favorite!

Here is our Christmas tree... I have alot of ornaments that I did not put on the tree this year, because I was trying to keep it in the "red, green, gold" color scheme.... now if I could just get the kiddos to leave it alone? Nevermind, I think that is next to impossible!

Next stop is our mantle! I found the big glittery snowflake in a cute little shop this fall and fell in love with it... I like what it added to the mirror! The pretty glittery red trees were a gift from my mama (who has great taste, if I do say so myself!) The ornaments hanging from the garland are red and gold... to tie in both colors. And, of course, Santa stands guard by the chimney. Aren't his skinny little legs TOO cute??

Above is the kid's Christmas pic with Santa this year. My secret to no screams?? They are both holding candy canes... shhhh!

Mom found this cutie pie tray while on vacation this fall, and I thought it was perfect for displaying these gorgeous antique red glasses

And these 2 little angels? (Well, MOST of the time) Only my 2 favorite Christmas presents ever! Why, yes, those ARE the pajamas I made (the ones that made me think all those ugly thougts toward my sweet lil' ol sewing machine?) Yes, the very ones. They did turn out sweet, I must admit. The things we do for these young'uns (to quote my mother, EXACTLY!)

And last but not least... our front door! Perhaps I should have put that first??

Thanks for visiting, y'all... Hope everyone has a blessed Christmas and a joyous and Happy New Year!

Happy Friday and
Much Love,

All tuckered out

2006-12-14T10:52:00.000-08:00

I left the kitchen for a few minutes during lunchtime today to help big brother "go potty" (he still has a hard time with buttons and such) and found this when I returned. My sweet girl, fast asleep in her highchair, with her beloved thumb in her mouth. I was reminded of how much I love her... dirty little face and all.

Happy Thursday and Much Love,

Just call him Rudolph

2006-12-13T08:11:00.000-08:00

Just call him Rudolph... the Andrew. At least, that what he is requesting to be called! Earlier this week at his preschool (he goes to a 2 morning a week program for 3 year olds at a local church) they made these "Rudolph" hats - and he has NOT wanted to take it off since! He even wants to bathe in it (not much harm in THAT, I suppose, since it is made of foam). So, I guess I've come to terms with the fact that "Rudolph the Andrew" lives here... at least until Christmas!

Happy Wednesday and Much Love,

** edited to add** UPDATE- please pray for the neighbor family as their baby that I had been requesting prayers for died yesterday. I am sure they would appreciate being lifted up . Thank you!