DAiSYS & dots

slacker

2012-01-18T16:41:00.000-05:00

I can't believe how fast January is going.
Seriously...
I had big ambitions to blog lots more.
Not only to keep you faithful readers up on whats going on,
but to document more of my life and the kiddos day to day stuff.
I wasn't shooting for every day because I know myself.
I would have failed before I started!
I'm still going to try! :)

I also want to do weigh in wednesdays.
I skipped last week on purpose.
I had gained weight and was embarrassed.
BOO!
This week I am back down again.
It is SO hard to be intentional about losing weight.
I really like food, yo!
Just keeping it real.

My baby Levi has the flu today.
He is needy and clingy and whiny :(
It is sad to watch.
And icky to be puked all over!
There has been lots of cuddling and watching Disney online!

On the shop front...
I am getting ready to put these into the shop!

I am in LOVE with this batch of headbands!
I want to keep them all :)

InstaFriday

2012-01-13T16:50:00.001-05:00

Hope you had a great week.

I've been busy hence the MIA.

I'm hoping to get loads of things crossed off my list this weekend.

Then I will feel in control.

Yeah right!

Addie turns 6

2012-01-09T14:25:00.001-05:00

Addie turned 6 years old last Thursday!

SIX... I am still in denial.

She is seriously one of the spunkiest kids I know!

I'm sure many parents can relate when I say spunky!

She got a diary for Christmas and it has been fun to see her write in it :)

She lets me read it!

I wonder how long that is going to last?

Last Friday she cleaned the whole house!

I'm not even joking! Even the bathroom.

She did ask if I would help her clean her room.

I said sure.

When I asked her, "what makes you want to clean the whole house?"

She said, "I want to make it nice for when Aunt Sarah and Andrew when they come over!"

She was getting mad with Levi every time he pulled out another toy.

Jeremy said, "isn't it annoying when you work so hard cleaning up and someone messes it up!"

"Yes!!!" she said.

I don't think she made the connection :)

I am so excited to see what this year holds for you my sweet Addie.

You are growing in your faith and it is so neat to see you want to please Jesus!

I love that you are learning to read and write!

The things you asked for are (and I quote):

"I Rile wont a marikin dol and los uv mune"

Translation...
I really want an American girl doll and lots of money. :)

We told her that those dolls were very expensive
and that if you wanted one than you can save your own money.
When you save up enough money mom and dad will take you
on a train trip to Chicago where you can pick out your very own doll!
Alaina quickly jumped on board with this idea and decided that's what she wants to do too!

So that is why she wants, "los uv mune"! :)

InstaFriday

2012-01-06T19:46:00.001-05:00

This is my first instaFriday edition. Enjoy :)

This is my first instagram... I'm officially addicted to this app!

Alaina didn't want to be left out :) She is getting so big!

My crazy mother :) I love her... a lot!

This is Joesph and his and his angry brothers...

Naughty boy!!!

Weigh in Wednesdays

2012-01-04T15:00:00.001-05:00

Hello...
Remember that goal of mine not to eat candy until Valentine's day?
I failed... about a handful of times!
But who's counting anyways?
I weighed myself this morning and I took a photo.
I was going to post it until i realized that my scale is a mirror. What the heck?!
So I will spare you the crazy photo and just tell you my weight :)
136.
I weighed myself twice and this was the higher of the two weights.
So I will go with that :)
With my height (5'3") my ideal weight would be 123 pounds.
That is on the low side of the healthy weight, but I would rather be on the lower side :)
Although I will say I am not unhappy with my current weight
I just feel that I am choosing unhealthy habits and
I would like to nip it in the bud before it gets out of control.
I'm sure some of you can relate!?
Eating right is hard when there is so much junk food right at your fingertips!
It doesn't help that a certain someone is turning 6 tomorrow and I was told to make
vanilla cupcakes with pink frosting and sprinkles!
Who can say no to the birthday girl?

Okay all you who want to join the weigh in wednesdays, just leave me a comment and
tell me you are doing it. You don't have to leave your weight.
Unless you want to :)
If you write a post about weigh in wednesdays,
I would love to hear about it so I can come encourage you!!!

a few goals for 2012

2012-01-02T13:41:00.000-05:00

It's a new year.
After the sugar shock I went into last month...
I think it's time to detox!
A friend on facebook said she is going with no candy until Valentine's.
I thought that that was a great goal and obtainable!
I gained 4 pounds over the holidays... BOO!

(image source: Yahoo search using the phrase, "Muffin top")

So with the new year I am going to resurrect,
Weigh in Wednesdays.
Every Wednesday I will show my progress.
You can join me.
Keep me accountable and I will keep you accountable!
I will work hard all week and then I will let you know how it paid off.
I will also be adding what I did each day, in a quick list.
Just to give you ideas of what you can do.
If you haven't already, Pinterest is loaded with ideas for workouts.
A lot of them just needs YOU.
No workout equipment! I think that is great!
I would love it if you joined me :)
I would love to know that I am not the only one trying to lose my extra flab :)

Okay now onto what I have been wanting to get a handle on for a long time.
My photos.
They are out of control!
Seriously, I have 10's of thousands of photos and they are either on my computer or a disc.
It's bad.
Plus, I haven't printed any photos for my house in about 7 years!
That is sad.
I have so many awesome photos and they are all stored away, for nobody to enjoy!
I haven't completely decided what I want to do yet, but I do know that I want them
in a book so I can enjoy them now!
I came across this idea on Pinterest.
I like the idea of simple.
It's not super elaborate scrapbooking and I like that A LOT!
That is one thing that keeps holding me back from scrapbooking.
It takes a lot of time to create one beautiful page you see so many people creating.
There is nothing wrong with the elaborate method.
I have a ton of books with pages that are elaborate, but in a sense it is crippling me.
In my OCD, everything should look perfect mind,
I don't scrapbook because I don't have the time to create such beautiful pages.
In reality, what makes the page beautiful?
The photos!
If you have any suggestions on what you do to simplify your photos, please tell me!
I'm overwhelmed with this project, but I need to start!

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T15:21:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year to you!!!
I am going to be adding a new free printable every month!
A total of 12 this year!
I hope you like them.
Please feel free to right click and save to your computer.
Print it out at home or at a lab. May I suggest Mpix.com!?
This printable is sized as a 5.25"x5.25"
Please use for personal use.
Do not share or use for reselling!

New Year's Eve 2011

2011-12-31T16:32:00.002-05:00

We are staying home today.
We decided to let the girls stay up til midnight tonight.
It is their first time doing this so what better way to ring in the new year than with colorful confetti!?
We had a bunch of random scraps of construction paper and so we just cut up a bunch.
Voila... confetti.

This arrived on my doorstep this afternoon.
Happy mail.
Fabric that is going to be turned into happy headwraps :)

These games are also in our future tonight.
Along with a Mario Kart tournament, a Dance off and
the EASIEST caramel corn ever!

Happy New Year!

Repost & a Winner

2011-12-21T15:02:00.000-05:00

These were so fun to make.
You have to have patience!
They are my girls finger prints and then I let them draw the arms.
I then mod podged the paper onto the glass bubbles
and then super-glued a really strong magnet on the back.
I also wrote the girls names on the back with the year!
All the grandparents, aunts and uncles got a set :) They loved them!!!
It really only took about an hour total. The kids loved this activity!!!!
This was my super fun, easy sewing project for Christmas...
Tissue cozies. I got the tutorial here. Best part was everyone LOVED them!

The winner of the Clean water giveaway is...

Congratulations Tammi... email me so I can send you the goods :)
Thanks all that donated!

Teacher Gift

2011-12-20T13:21:00.000-05:00

I am going to be drawing a name of one lucky winner
tomorrow for the Clean water giveaway :)
Stay tuned!!!

Today I am going to show you what I made
the girl's teachers for their Christmas gift!
I love how it turned out!

A chalkboard necklace! :)

Happy Monday

2011-12-19T12:13:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday to you all!
Yesterday was my birthday.
I still am a little weirded out that I am 32.
I still feel like a kid some days.
Then I see my gray hairs peeking through and
it reminds me of my real age :)
Thank you gray hairs for keepin it real ;)

I cannot believe that this week is Christmas!
Wow where does the time go?

You still have time to enter in the clean water giveaway here.
Give the gift of water!
In one week with the help of YOU... Project 320 was able to raise enough money to fund one well!
AMAZING!!!

I still have a few last minute things I am making for gifts,
so I thought I would post the fun here this week!
Hope I can inspire you a little :)

Here is what I made my sister and brother-in-law for Christmas...
I had my nephew draw a picture of their family on Thanksgiving...
Then I stitched it up for them and framed it for their walls.
We had Christmas yesterday and they LOVED it :)
I got the idea from my sweet friend Crystal.
Let me just say that this was way harder than I thought it would be.
I totally bruised my thumb from the stupid embroidery needle.
So I highly recommend using Crystal for your special drawings!
It will be worth every penny!
Here is my nephew's original drawing...

I LOVE how it turned out!

Clean Water

2011-12-16T15:50:00.002-05:00

Right now as I type the smell of my husbands left over lunch is drifting into the living room.
It's tuna fish. BARF!
Guess what though?
I have clean water with a wave of my hand to clean it up!
I have clean water to shower off the smell, cause it may come down to that.
and
I have enough clean water to drink, hydrate my children
and not worry about anyone getting sick or even dying!

Not everyone has that luxury.
You might think water isn't a luxury.
But that's because you've never had to walk for
miles while leaving your children just for a little bit of dirty water.

Some of my friends have HUGE hearts.
Hearts for families just like ours without clean water.
Hearts to change the world!
I am jumping on board to help them build a well.
They have already built 3 wells in the past two years!
This year they want to build more :)

Here is how you can help...
Click onto the Project 320 page.
Donate as much as you are able.
For every $10 you donate you are entered into my giveaway.
So if you donate $20 you need to leave 2 comments to be entered twice...

This giveaway will include a stitched wall hanging.

and a $10 giftcard to Starbucks!

A TEN DOLLAR donation gives one person clean water for TEN YEARS!!!!

Be part of something amazing this Christmas!

The Easiest Caramel Corn EVER!

2011-12-16T13:50:00.001-05:00

Seriously this recipe doesn't involve a stove top or an oven.

Only a microwave!

Ingredients:

1 cup brown sugar
1 stick of butter
1/4 cup light or dark Karo syrup
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
12-16 cups of popped popcorn (2 bags of microwave popcorn)

Directions:
Place the popped popcorn in a large brown paper sack. (I use unsalted and un-buttered microwavable popcorn for the quickest results.)

Combine first 4 ingredients in a 2 quart microwavable dish. Cook in microwave on high for 2 minutes, stir. Repeat. Remove from microwave and stir in the baking soda. After you've mixed all together pour the syrup over the popcorn. Close the paper sack and shake for about 1-2 minutes. Place the paper sack in the microwave and cook on high for 1 minute. Shake again and cook for another minute. Pour onto a cookie sheet and let cool. Don't eat this in one sitting :)

This seriously took me 10 minutes from start to finish!!!
Sadly it is half gone already!
Enjoy :)

Freebie Sunday :)

2011-12-11T16:00:00.001-05:00

Feel free to right click and save this printable your computer :)
Please no sharing or using for profit! This is for personal use only.
Send your friends over for some freebie fun :)
Happy Sunday!
(This is formatted to 8.5"x11")

winner, winner, chicken dinner

2011-12-04T14:13:00.001-05:00

Well let's just say the last 4 days have been busy.
Sorry for the delayed winner announcement.
Random number generator picked #1

Congratulations Sarah...

go ahead and "purchase" anything in my shop ;)
just email me what it is that you would like and
your mailing address!

Happy 400 post Giveaway!!!

2011-12-01T14:26:00.001-05:00

I am excited to do a giveaway!
I haven't done one on the blog in awhile :)
I figured the easiest thing to do would be
to let the winner pick what they wanted :)
One lucky winner will be able to choose
ANY one thing in my shop! (sorry no custom orders)

I have quite a bit to choose from, so you should be able to find
at least one thing :)

Maybe a book garland or a fabric bunting?

A cake for an upcoming event?

A headband for yourself or for a gift this holiday?

Possibly a Christmas cake? Or an advent cake (just start it a few days late?!).

Here are the rules!
You will have the opportunity to enter multiple times.
It's up to you how many times you want to enter!

Entry options:

1. Leave a comment telling me the one thing you would choose from my shop and why?!

2. Blog about this giveaway using my blog button. You can grab it in the upper right hand corner. Come back and leave another comment telling me you did so. I would love to discover new blogs :)

3. Go to Facebook and leave a direct link back to this blog telling all your friends about this giveaway :) leave another comment telling me you did that!

4. Tweet this giveaway over on Twitter and come back and tell me you did that :)

That is a total of 4 ways to enter!

Have fun :)

You have until Saturday, December 3, 2011 to enter.

I will draw a name using random.org!

Tuesday's Ramblings

2011-11-29T21:38:00.001-05:00

I have been really bad at taking pictures lately.
It makes me sad actually.
I love photos.
I love capturing the everyday!
For instance.
Today we went out and cut down our tree.
No pictures.
What is a miracle though...
We picked it out,
cut it down,
and put it up in our house all in under an hour!
That my friends is a Christmas miracle.
Back to the photos.
I am super excited to be getting an iPhone
next month.
I'm hoping to be able to use my camera
on my phone a lot!
I always have my phone with me.
If you have any good apps you just have to tell me about,
please do!

Also, I've reached over 400 posts.
I'm thinking that is a pretty great milestone.
One so great it deserves a giveaway.
However, most of my readers are stalkers.
So in order to be involved in this giveaway
you are going to need to unlurk and start commenting :)
I promise it's going to pay off

So today leave me a comment telling me
what are must have apps for my phone
and
what you would be most interested in getting
during the giveaway :)

Here are a few photos of Addie I did recently.
All of these are SOOC. I used my 50mm f/1.4
They are far from perfect, but a little bit of her 5 year old self captured forever. Enjoy.

She was singing in this one :)

Cyber Monday

2011-11-28T10:07:00.001-05:00

Today is a busy day on the internet.
Cyber Monday.
A day where you can always find a deal.
Even if you aren't looking for one!
Today in my shop everything has FREE shipping.
Enter the coupon code CYBER2011
to get your free shipping.
Today only!
Have a fun day of shopping :)

Friday Freebie

2011-11-25T11:20:00.001-05:00

Here is my Friday freebie :)

This is what we are going to be using in our advent calender this year.

Feel free to save these to your desktop and print for fun times this Christmas season!

Please remember that this is for personal use only. Do not share or use for profit.

Feel free to send your friends to my blog to be able to print some for their own use! :)

Hope you are enjoying your Holiday weekend!

I am not even joking!

2011-11-21T17:50:00.001-05:00

So remember last week when I wrote the post on
Addie's ~~naughtiness~~ creativity...
Well, she's at it again!
During the longest.week.of.my.life.
aka... grounded from coloring.
She thought it would be a great idea to add to the prettiness that was already my lamp shade.

At least she loves me :)
I seriously think when she hasn't drawn for more than 30 minutes her
hand must start to convulse and she just can't control herself!
My question is seriously what isn't her canvas?

Friday Freebie

2011-11-18T15:28:00.004-05:00

Happy Friday...
Feel free to copy and save to your desktop and print.
For personal use only please!
It is formatted as a 5x7
enjoy!
*** Please don't use this for resale. For personal use only! Feel free to send your friends here to save and print their own copy!***

Thankful on Paper... Week 3

2011-11-17T21:06:00.001-05:00

I can't believe Thanksgiving is next Thursday!
I am so excited to be heading home.
It is going to be busy with a different Thanksgiving on
Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday.
We will be so tired come that Sunday.
Either way I am excited to reconnect with so many people!

This week I wanted to highlight my sister.
I have two sisters that I love dearly!
Both are younger... so yes I am the older and wiser one :)
They both hold special places in my heart.
Just wanted to point out that I am not playing favorites!

This is my youngest sister her name is Sarah...
She has a blog and she talks about Jesus.
I love that!
Wow... How do I even put into words the love I have for this girl?
I know my little pea sized brain can't even thunk up the right things!
Either way, I will try.
I am so thankful that she snorts... my true partner in crime!
I am so thankful that she loves Jesus with all of her heart, not just part of it, but ALL of it!
I am so thankful that she loves the lost and the hurt and the weary.
I am so thankful that she loves on my kids.
I am so thankful that she gave up 7 months of her life to take care of my family while I was preggo with little Levi! A true sacrifice of love. Cause let me tell ya... I'm not easy to live with.
Am I right Sarah?
I am so thankful that I get to share an air mattress with her for 4 days next week...
I bet there will be a lot of snorting going on!
I am so thankful that she is one of my bestest friends!

I love you Sarah Rose Hose... xoxoxo

Now come back tomorrow for a fun freebie :) and no it won't be a vlog of me snorting!

My Personal Advent Calender

2011-11-16T13:46:00.001-05:00

After taking these photos I can't wait to paint my walls and wood work this coming spring!
I am waiting to get new carpet and will do all the painting when the carpet comes out!
I haven't filled the bags yet, I am working on that!
I will write up a post on what goes in each day... hopefully soon!

Can't wait to start this tradition with the kiddos this year!

I joined Trish and Bonnie in their Home for the Holidays Link Party!

Here is a photo sitting on my mantel.
It's of my mom and me and my little sister.
My mom use to wear it on her coat :)
I'm the one that looks sooo happy to be getting her photo taken! (insert sarcasm)

Hope you have a happy Wednesday!

Advent Calender Highlight

2011-11-15T16:27:00.000-05:00

Here are some of the newer advent calenders that have hit the shop

And if you like helping a good cause then click here
to not only buy super cute Christmas cards, but the $$ goes
to bringing is Davis home!

She's Artsy Fartsy

2011-11-14T10:38:00.000-05:00

My Addie has extreme art in her blood!
She can out color anyone!

On more than one occasion, she has been told to only color on paper!
She has a hard time remembering.
I've had to magic erase the smiley faces off our dining room table at least a dozen times!
I'm telling you this kid has the bug.
I should put her in a stripe shirt and stick a beret on her head
and see if she could bring home the bacon!
A friend on Facebook was asking how to remove crayon from her TV.
That is an all too familiar place I've been.
It got me thinking about this post and that was 2 1/2 years ago.
Some mammals pee on things to make their mark...
Addie, she draws! (i guess i should be thankful she doesn't pee around every corner!)
So I decided to make an updated list of all the things I can remember her coloring on.

couch
ottoman
the carpet
lots of walls
the tv
dining room table
wood floor
kitchen bench
chairs
bunk beds
herself
all over her side of the van
her carseat
windows
alaina's quilt
too many toys to count

So as you can see this list is long. And my memory isn't very good these days!
Her response to me asking her why she didn't use paper...
"mom, you know I forget! You need to remind me at least 2 times a day!"

I can rest assure that I shouldn't find any new art in the next week.
Why you ask?

She is grounded from all things art for a week!
GASP...
This punishment will far out weigh any time outs that she would ever get!
For now my house will stay unaltered from any new art,
but I will have a very mopey Michelangelo on my hands!

Hope you have a happy Monday :)

Hoop Art

2011-11-11T19:01:00.000-05:00

I LOVE hoop art.
It has been on my list of projects to tackle for awhile now.
They are just so cheery and happy
with a little nostalgia thrown into the mix.

God has been prodding at my heart to be more giving.
Not just to do it because,
but to do it with a spirit of love.

I am joining the woman's ministry team at my church.
I am going to be leading lots of woman in fun crafts.
I don't know how it will all pan out yet,
but it will be fun!!!

I am putting together a craft night a week from today.
The theme is Crafting for Others.
We are going to be making some hoop art
with a person in mind.
So when we are stitching not only can we
be "Chatty Patty's" as Alaina calls people that like to talk
(including herself)
but we can pray intentionally for that person!
This is a 4" hoop

This is a 9" hoop

Have a happy weekend!

Week 2... Thankful on Paper

2011-11-10T16:24:00.000-05:00

Today marks week two of being thankful on paper.
Yesterday, I decided to write my dad!
My dad is super great.
He still signs his name...
Lou '72
on every card I get.
I love that.
(That's the year he graduated if you didn't get it)

I love seeing my dad hold my kiddos... melts my heart :)

When I was living at 'home' my dad would
try to wake me up every morning.
The poor guy... I would give him such a hard time!
Now when we stay at my parents house,
I am usually the first to wake up now that I have kids.
But my dad is usually the second to wake up...
So we sit at the kitchen table and have our morning cup of coffee
and chat while the baby eats his banana and cheerios :)

I love sitting in the quiet of the morning with just my dad!

It's special.

I love you dad and I am so thankful for you!

Taking Care of Business!

2011-11-09T11:18:00.000-05:00

The idea behind What I wore Wednesday is to keep yourself accountable.
As a work-at-home mom and a homeschooling mom,
some days you just don't want to get dressed!
Let me tell you, it's never fun though when the doorbell rings at 3pm and you
are still unshowered and in your jammies.

I have been wearing these rings with everything. LOVE them!
This photo is a great reminder to put lotion on at night...
I have sensory issues and I loathe the feeling of lotion on me!!!
Maybe if I wear it at night I won't know that it is on and therefore I won't convulse?!

The photo is blurry but that's what you get for taking it yourself :)
Caridgan... Target
Shirt... Old Navy
Rosie Posie Necklace... DAISYS & dots

Click here to find other inspirational outfits :)

˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚

Today is Thankful Wednesday.
It was started last year by Rachel!
She is a sweetie.
She writes.
She reads.
and
She believes. :)

I am blessed and have so many people to be thankful for in my life.
It's going to be really hard to pick just one for today!
I may have to spread more handwriting love,
since chances are I can't make a decision.
I have a hard time making decisions!

˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚

Today is Day 3 of the Happy Day Project!
Today is give a gift card to the homeless.
This day is definitely pushing me out of my comfort zone.
I live in a city that seems so well off.
But I would be in complete denial and living
a self-righteous life to think
everyone is okay just because my family has a home.
I feel horrible even asking this question, but
How do I even find a homeless person?
I am going to do it though.
I'm sure I can figure it out.
Time to put on my big girl panties!

Happy Day Project... Day 2 and some pretties

2011-11-08T15:54:00.000-05:00

Today is day 2 of the Happy Day Project!
Today you can write someone a note...
A love note.
A note of encouragement.
A thank you note.
The key is... it needs to be handwritten!
Head on over to Joy's Hope for the free download of a
super cute note!!!

On a business note I have made some Rosie Posie rings!

I just love them!
I wear them with EVERYTHING.
More colors are coming soon...
Dark gray, chocolate brown, cream and a dark teal.
Tell me the colors you would love to see these rings in!
All rings are only $10 (plus shipping).

Happy Day Project... Day 1

2011-11-07T12:14:00.000-05:00

I am joining Julie from Joy's Hope this week.

How awesome is this idea?
I think it is totally rad.
Each day she will give you a project to do.
To make it even better...
It is something you do for someone else.
To bless them.
To make their day a little brighter.

At first glance,
I was a little nervous.
This is pushing me out of my comfort zone.
Why is it that we as humans stick to what we know?
Seriously, I feel like somedays I am in my own world...
Anything outside of my daily worries or struggles doesn't matter.
I am a creature of habit.
"Oh really, there are other people that struggle too?"
I am willing to go outside of my comfort zone to bless others.
Are you willing?

Thankful... Week One

2011-11-03T21:08:00.000-04:00

I am joining Rachel over on No. 17
Being Thankful on Paper.

This week I am choosing my mom.
I am thankful for...
her willingness to do things for me. Usually, in a moments notice.
her quirky self.
her giggles.
her artsy, talent... (now you know where I get my creativeness)
her drive to do something... she knows how to get a job done!
I am thankful for...
all those times she would put a band-aid on my ouchie.
rock me when I was sad.
pray for me when I am down.
cook for me when I am hungry.
I am thankful that when I go back to her house to stay
(even though I am almost 32) she takes care of me like I've never left.
I am thankful for...
her sweet spirt.
for the fact that she IS crying while reading this.
that she loves me for me, despite my shortcomings.

Thank you mom!
xoxo

My mommy :)

Living Life to the Fullest

2011-11-02T17:02:00.001-04:00

I am in week 5 of my Bible study.
Our group of ladies in the church are studying Beloved Disciple,
The Life and Ministry of John...
I should actually be in week 6 but I am a bit behind.
The story of my life lately.
This study is life changing... Beth Moore is such a great writer!

I'm having all of these thoughts and so I guess the best thing to do is to write them down.
It's easy to find fulfillment in things of this world...
The latest and the greatest, right?!
Well I don't know about you, but soon after I get what I want
I feel empty. unhappy. wanting more.
Seems like a total waste of time and money really.
We are far too easily pleased...

“If there lurks in most modern minds the notion that to desire our own good and earnestly to hope for the enjoyment of it is a bad thing, I submit that this notion has crept in from Kant and the Stoics and is not part of the Christian faith.
Indeed, if we consider the unblushing promises of reward and the staggering nature of the rewards promised in the Gospels, it would seem that Our Lord finds our desires, not too strong, but too weak.
We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.”

- C. S. Lewis in “The Weight of Glory”

Wow... Just wow!

Beth Moore reminds us of how we try to reduce God to nothing but religion and then grow bored with the image we created.

I want to be more than a noun... believer. I want to be a verb... believing.

I really want to glorify God in all I do and say.
I've had a really hard time figuring out what my
spiritual gifts and talents are and how to use them for God.
Some days I feel like I'm not good at a lot of things.
Self-pity and doubt are not from the Lord...
Not to toot my own horn, but I felt God telling me that my talents were arts and crafts.I was stumbling a lot in how can I use this for the eternal Kingdom?
I don't have a Ph.D in Theology...
but I do have a heart being filled to the brim with love for other woman.
I had an overwhelming feeling of being directed to start hosting craft nights for our church.
I am super excited to get really creative and think outside of the box to bless these ladies!

I don't want to go through my life trying to fill a void with pointless nonsense only to be disappointed every time!
I would be so encouraged to hear how God is working in your life
and to hear what your spiritual gifts and talents are!

Cute Cowgirls

2011-10-31T23:18:00.001-04:00

Aren't these two just the cutest little cowgirls you ever saw?
We don't go all out on Halloween... I'm not a big fan of the holiday.
We let them dress up and we go to church for our Harvest party held for the missions conference.
This years theme was a round-up :)
So we played the part!
It was fun.

I made this apron for a church event.
One lucky lady will get to take it home :)
I had fun making it...
Anna Maria Horner fabric is very nice!

A Fall Day

2011-10-29T15:55:00.000-04:00

Today is a beautiful fall day!
Crisp air.
Sunny skies.
Delightful I tell you!
I have been sewing all day
Well in between making lunches and
being a referee :)
This is the start of a gorgeous bag!!!

Right before lunch I stepped outside.
I trimmed off a few branches from a tree out back
and made this arrangement for my kitchen!
I love bringing the outdoors inside!

Back to sewing and enjoying the sunshine :)

A New Addiction

2011-10-28T15:25:00.001-04:00

If you read my blog you know I LOVE to create.
Every chance I get I create.
I also love getting together with my friends and creating beauty.
I thought it would be fun to rally up some chicas for one last crafting night for this year.
However, I thought since the Holidays are coming up our theme would be...
Crafting for others.
I have been wanting to try stitching in an embroidery hoop.
First thing... it is a bit trickier than I gave it credit.
But after I got the hang of it...
I am now addicted!
Here is the project we are going to create on our craft night.

I encourage you to read the book of Proverbs...
it is lovely.
Proverbs 17:17 says...
A friend loveth at all times.
I love that.
I just love that this little cutie is going to go to one of my sweet friends.
It will hang on her wall.
It will remind her of how special she is to me!

My mom was here yesterday and today.
She left about an hour ago.
I miss her already.
She stayed up late with me last night and
created her own version... it turned out super cute too.

I got some super fun mail today.
I ordered some fabric from the fabric shoppe
Jody is pretty rad...
She never fails me and my fabric always comes super fast!
Here is what she sent me...

LOVE it...
The hubbinator will be gone tomorrow working...
So guess what I will be doing while little Levi is taking his naps?!
Sewing :)
Something for the shop too :)

(source)

If you read my blog then you know that I adore Crystal...
She is AMAZING.
She loves Jesus.
Adores her family.
And she likes to create...
She also loves to bake.
She may just be my doppelgänger only she isn't evil ;)
But these Chocolate/Peanut Butter Pretzel Cookie bars are EVIL.
When Crystal said (and I quote) "Oh my garsh"
She wasn't joking.
These are FABULOUS with a capitol... EVERYTHING!
I will be making these again and again and again!
I just need to make sure that I make them with the thought of only eating one...
maybe two and then giving the rest away!
Because they are probably one million calories!

Okay I think that is about it!
Enjoy your weekend.
I am so happy it is Friday!!!

Don't forget to become a fan of DAISYS & dots on facebook...
There is a sale going on now for those of you that 'like' me ;)

thursday happenings...

2011-10-27T10:23:00.020-04:00

Right now I am trying to finish my Christmas cakes to get them in the shop.
Hopefully by the beginning of next week they will be there!
I have a sale coming to my Facebook fans only...
So if you want in on the deal then head on over to my facebook page.
You can access it up at the top of this page :)

I am working on these new rosie posie rings...
I LOVE them. Hoping to have them arrive in the shop soon.
I'm thinking I need one in every color!!!

I am also planning a craft night.
I love hosting craft nights.
I have done a few so far and just have so much fun!
I am working on the prototypes for our upcoming night
and can't wait to show you!!!
Have a happy Thursday.
My mom is coming to town to visit for a few days.

what i wore wednesday

2011-10-26T09:57:00.000-04:00

I LOVE reading the Pleated Poppy...
She's so Pleated... and Poppyish... :)
Anywho, I am doing my very first link up for
What I Wore Wednesdays...
I've always liked the idea,
but the thought of taking photos of myself
well, it made me giggle and feel ridiculous.
This week I got over my issues and took some photos.
Along with my 5 year old thinking she is the next DrewB ;)

Thursday... Homeschool day for Alaina... School for Addie

Sweater - Target

T-Shirt - Target

Tank - Old Navy

Jeans - Old Navy

Boots - Target (little girl section... I have small feet!)

Necklace - Local Shop

Friday - Homeschool day

Cardi - CABi

Top - CABi

Tank - Old Navy

Jeans - Old Navy

Boots - Target

Necklace - Kenya (A gift from my sister when she was there!)

Saturday - Spray painting day :)

Top - Target

Tank - Old Navy (I have a ton of these and where them most every day)

Jeggings - CABi

Head over to the Pleated Poppy to discover some other fun outfits ladies are putting together!

Just Another Tuesday

2011-10-25T16:10:00.001-04:00

This year I am trying really hard to be more prepared for the Christmas season.
The end of the year is CRAZY...
December 18th... My birthday
December 25th... Christmas
December 27th... Jeremy's birthday
December 31st... New Year's Eve
January 1st... New Year's Day
January 5th... Addie's birthday
January 7th... Sister-In-Law's birthday
January 9th... Father-In-Law's birthday

Can we cram anything else into those 3 weeks?

My goodness, just writing it out makes me cringe a little.

So every year I tell myself to plan ahead.

Every year I fail and I stress.

I want my kids to grow up with lots of great traditions.

So this year I have already started planning...I already ordered our Christmas puzzle.

I LOVE doing puzzles and so does Addie.

Everyone else could care less... so this will be our little project for the two of us!

I do need a mat. If anyone has any suggestions on those roll-up puzzle mats, let me know.
I'm also planning on doing our first advent calender this year.
I'm super excited and have lots of ideas.
If anyone of you have done one in the past and have suggestions on what to put into each day...
let me know. I'm open for ideas.
I'm creating a special advent calender for our family to be used over and over again.
I will show you when I am all finished with it and hopefully offer them in the shop for next year.

In other news. I was contacted by one of Norway's top parenting magazine.
DAISYS & dots will be featured this coming holiday!
They will be sending me a copy of the magazine... I will show you when I have it :)

Hope your Tuesday is swell!
Mine has been a bit on the crazy side.
Levi found a hidden Easter egg and was eating the candy out of it... oops!
Tonight I get to get out of the house though and have a fun girls night out.
We are going to to here
Downtown Holland is always a great place to hang out!
Can't wait to see some sweet faces and try some yummy oils and vinegars!!!

Tomorrow I am going to be doing my very first link up with Lindsay from the Pleated Poppy... WIWW
Come back to see what I wore this past week! Plus you can see what a total dork I am for taking pictures of myself! :)

Erin Condren...

2011-10-24T12:56:00.002-04:00

I LOVE organizing things.
Do I sometimes wander through
Office Depot just to get a cheap thrill?
Why yes, yes I do.
Have you heard of Erin Condren?
I have just recently and I am super excited to say
that I just ordered my first thing from her :)
I am going to be super organized with her day planner!
Plus, I will look cute too ;)
If you too would like to purchase an item HALF off then
follow this link and sign up with Plum District today!
You won't regret it!
I have purchased a shoes through Plum District already
through a previous deal!
I love a good deal!
Hope you join up and get organized too!

A Little Bit of Me

2011-10-24T11:47:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I gave my testimony during the morning service at Church.
The whole weekend I felt like I was going to throw up.
Thankfully I did not :)
I wanted to share it with you.
Take what you want from it.
Maybe you are struggling with hearing God's voice?
Maybe you are a rockstar follower of Christ?
I struggle daily...
Here is a peek into my heart.

My name is Trisha.

I have been married to Jeremy for 11 years.

We have 3 living children Alaina, Addie and Levi…

and we have two babes in Heaven…

I am a sinner. Saved by the Grace of Jesus.

I am finding out that it’s not just nice words to say,

to keep me out of Hell…

It is a commitment on my part,

because He is already committed to me!

He chose me first.

So when I don’t feel His presence,

it’s because I’m not seeking His face.

When I don’t feel like He’s hearing my prayers…

Am I really bringing my heart’s desire to the foot of the cross?

When I am feeling alone in this world,

I am not remembering that God will never leave me nor forsake me.

He thought greater of me to sacrifice His own son so that I may one day enter into His gates!

This year God has really stretched me.

I have grown in my faith and I am learning to rest in Him.

One of the things He has been teaching me is to not only believe in Jesus but to

Hear Him.

To Listen to Him.

And to Follow Him.

My pride often gets in the way of listening to what God is asking of me!

For a few years the Holy Spirit has been prompting me to confess sin in my life and to mend a few relationships in my past.

For awhile it seemed easier to just ignore it.

Sometimes the things he is asking of me seem so daunting…

I justified it somehow that it will be easier to just keep it inside and not rid myself of sin.

I realize now that if I don’t seek forgiveness from others,

it allows Satan to keep me shackled…

How am I confusing that as being easier?

Since my main goal is to constantly be ridding my life of sin…

I decided that it was time to set my pride aside and do what He has been asking me to do.

I wrote two letters.

Apologizing for my actions.

Making no excuses for my behavior.

I sent them out.

After doing what God asked me to do

I felt a literal weight being lifted from me.

One of the girls hasn’t replied to my letter.

I may never hear back from her and that is okay.

I know that I followed what God had asked me to do.

The other girl did call me.

She didn’t even remember the incident!

She did tell me that it had inspired her to do the same and she too had since contacted people in her past.

Don’t we, as parents want our children to strive to be the very best?

When I stand before my Heavenly Father I want Him to say to me,

“Well done my good and faithful servant!”

I don’t want to look back on life and regret not listening to His voice.

If God is asking something of you, please don’t wait another day to act on it!

He doesn’t want you to have a miserable life.

He wants to set you free.

Let me leave you with this verse…

2 Corinthians 3:17

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

15 Months

2011-10-22T12:27:00.000-04:00

A Rainy Day

2011-10-20T16:53:00.001-04:00

Today has been rainy.
Apparently it's blowing in from a tropical storm...
minus the tropical part ;)

Today was a homeschool day.
We rocked it!
Here is what it looked like this morning...

Levi has been growing leaps and bounds lately.
He is going to be 15 months tomorrow.
He still isn't really walking (which I'm totally okay with)
However, he does say, "hi, hi, hi, hi, hi, hi, hi..."
and
"ba" for ball
Super cute.
He is still into climbing EVERYTHING, which scares me.

This was pretty cute though...
How he played for about 20 minutes this morning!
Oh and he is getting his 2 year molars.
That makes for one crabby baby!
Which I don't blame him at all those suckers are huge!
Better go he is trying to tip over the side table!

Choosing Joy

2011-10-19T15:02:00.001-04:00

This girl has Cerebral Palsy.
This girl is my daughter.
This girl radiates joy.
This girl says HI to EVERYONE she sees!
This girl gives some of the best hugs ever.
This girl has changed my life forever.
For the best.
I love her a crazy amount!

Just wanted to shout it from the rooftops that I love my girl Alaina.
Some people find disability to be a burden.
For the past 7 years,
I was one of those people.
This year God has changed my heart.
He has opened my eyes to see beyond the burdens and barriers.
Alaina's Cerebral Palsy is a blessing.
From the moment I saw that tiny babe all those years ago...
I had fallen madly in love with her.

I still have hard days where I wish my sweet girl to be fully healed here on earth.
It's usually when we have to make tough decisions like...
Who should her surgeon be?
Is this surgery good for her?
Should she get botox?
Will kids ignore her on the playground?
Will she fall while at school?

These decisions can come almost daily
therefore I need to choose JOY.
It is a hard choice to make,
but one that has made me a better person.
One of my favorite sayings is...
Comparison is the thief of joy. So be the YOU that God created you to be!

Rosie Posie's

2011-10-18T15:58:00.001-04:00

I've decided to sell these in my shop.
I am selling each necklace for $35
They will be made to order for now.
I can only take a limited amount of custom order work.
Pick your colors and I will get to making you your own necklace!
These are all mine, so I could maybe try and recreate any of the ones you see here!?
Leave me a comment if you are interested in a custom necklace from me!

Pinterest Inspiration!

2011-10-13T17:13:00.001-04:00

I am daily inspired by Pinterest.
I very rarely make anything for myself.
I usually am making it for my shop
or someone else as a gift.
Yesterday, I made a
fabric flower bib necklace.
My photo isn't that great.
I will try and get a good one tomorrow.

I am linking up with Crystal B.
Check her out and link up with her too.

Our Family Photos

2011-10-12T12:46:00.000-04:00

We had our family pictures taken last week!
Whoa was that stressful or what?!
I started planning our outfits in JULY...
I was thinking cozy sweaters...
We took the photos on October 6th,
it was 81˚, I was sweating like a pig!
Oh well the lovely Diana did her job and you
can't see my underarm sweat!
Thank goodness.
Now that would be embarrassing!

Here is our sneak peek :)

I'm really excited to see more!!!

10 on 10 :: A Day Late

2011-10-11T21:43:00.000-04:00

Ten on Ten: Take a photo every hour for ten consecutive hours on the tenth of each month. Document a day of your life and find beauty among the ordinary moments.

I've got my work cut out for me this morning!

This is what Levi has been up to lately. He is crazy with that thing! He is almost 15 months and is still not walking on his own yet. It will happen soon enough. For now I am cherishing this!

Levi "assisted" me with assembling these Ikea spice racks. He is the cutest little assistant :)

Spray painting the spice racks :) It has been in the 80's in Michigan this past week! Crazy.

Made this recipe. The picture in the link looks way better than mine. It was still yummy though :)

Phew... that was hard work!

Maybe it is time I get Levi some new pants :)

Spending a little time outside... It was beautiful!

My new bookshelves :) LOVE them. Although having them so close to the ground I had to restock the shelves 3 times today!

Pinterest Inspiration!

2011-09-29T22:41:00.001-04:00

It's been quite the rainy fall here in good ol' Michigan.
It was 58˚ today and the weatherman said a storm is rolling in over the lake
and we are going to be lots more rainy, really windy and lots colder over the next few days.
The sun did peek out today so that was a nice little change :)

Today I wanted to let you know that I am linking up with the sweetie that she is,
Crystal B.

She has inspired me to actually create something from my Pinterest boards :)
I love Pinterest.
If you're not on yet, let me know I will send you an invite.
It does get overwhelming though,
and then you can feel depressed about all the stuff you want to make.
So Crystal is having a linky party every Thursdays
so you can display your creations and to motivate you to create!

Today I pulled something from my board titled,
"Think outside the box".
A bunch of fun different ways to wrap gifts.
I had a double baby shower tonight, so I decided to be creative and utilize Pinterest :)

This is what you will need...
-kraft wrapping paper
-tape... i could only find packing tape
-scissors
-baker's twine
-a vintage book
-sharpie (i forgot that in the picture)
-and the obvious... the gift ;)

First fold a page in half. Then cut a bunch of rectangles on the fold. Once you have how many you want, just cut out the bottom like a birds beak.

Next write the recipients name on the pennants. Do this first in case you mess up then you can easily change out the one you messed up on :)
After you've wrapped your gift, just wrap a bunch of the baker's twine around your gift. Tie it in a know on the back.

Now put a little glue to make them stick. Slide each pennant through the baker's twine and voila...

You have a super cute package for a super cute momma-to-be!!!

I'm Giddy for the Fall

2011-09-28T16:16:00.001-04:00

Today I have been busy.
I'm creating some fun Thanksgiving/Fall Paper cakes.
I also had some fun paper that has vintage sewing notions all over it.
LOVE it!

They are going in the shop now :)

Choose Joy

2011-09-26T17:14:00.001-04:00

Choose Joy.
Every Monday I choose joy despite the hardships of life.

Today I am happy that I got my To-Do list all done!
I am so happy about that.

Excuse that it's backwards...
it's quite simply easier to take a photo on my computer than
pulling out my camera!

Will you choose joy with me?
Tell me what you're thankful for today!

p.s. even though i don't look happy i really am :)

Exhausted

2011-09-25T21:49:00.000-04:00

I am so tired lately.
This whole removal of the gallbladder has plum worn me out.
I am so thankful to be off the meds they sent me home on.
They made me crazy.
I would have panic attacks.
I would be really tired,
but couldn't sleep.
When I did actually sleep I would have nightmares.
It was awful.
I tried to keep away from working this whole past week.
I succeeded.
So yesterday I slowly started things back up.
Yay for having a ton of advent calenders to stock up for Christmas.
I'm hoping to have some in the shop by the end of this week.

I did feel a little guilty for passing over one of my most favorite of holidays.
Thanksgiving.
I always feel like it doesn't get to be in the limelight for very long.
It's such a great day.
I love it :)
Just so it wouldn't feel left out.
I made a Thanksgiving garland.
I also made a few fallish cakes for your gatherings!

I'm starting a new series titled,

"Choose Joy"
Every Monday (or at least I hope to every Monday)
I am going to find the good in the mundane I call life.
I am hoping it will catch on and you too can share the joy in your everyday life.
Psalm 118:24 - "This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." (NIV)

Healing...

2011-09-22T09:24:00.001-04:00

Guess how hard it is to NOT pick up your clingy one year old?
HARD!
His little cry for his momma, makes me want to pick him right up.
Not to mention he has been cutting his eighth tooth for like 4 weeks.
No joke!
It is also hard to have a wiggly one year old sit on your lap
right after surgery.
I've been kicked and elbowed a few times.

I'm also on some weird narcotics that make me REALLY sleepy.
I then lay there, extremely tired yet unable to fall asleep.
Fun times.
I'm hoping for a good nap today!

Here are some flowers I got today.
Can you see Alaina in the background...
She was trying to stay out of the photo.
Silly girl :)

Happy Wednesday

2011-09-21T20:38:00.002-04:00

Today is "hump day".

Yesterday, I had my jerky gallbladder removed.

Yep, I am now gallbladderless :)

I am heavily medicated and sleepy.

In between my naps today I found some yummy food on Pinterest.

It is all yummy, gooey & cheesy.

All things I can't wait to try this fall!

You can start to follow me on Pinterest if you like!

Just click on my Pinterest button over on the right hand side of my blog.

If you haven't yet joined yet... I highly recommend it!

It is such an awesome way to bookmark the things you like.

I always forget about my bookmark tab and if by chance I remember to look...

it's just an address and I often forget what it is, until I click on it.

Pinterest is a visual bookmarking hub for all the things you like/want to remember!

You should join!

If you need an invite just email me and I can send you one :)

So without further ado some yummy recipes:

Cheesy Garlic Bread

Grilled Cheese Reinvented

Grilled Asparagus and Fontina

French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Baked Parmesan Tomatoes

Slow Baked Mac & Cheese

Queso Blanco Dip

Okay everyone...

get to cooking!

If you aren't a fan of DAISYS & dots yet over on Facebook...

you should become one.

Tell your friends too.

Once I hit 500 fans I am going to have a giveaway :)

You can also find the link in the upper right sidebar of this blog.

See you there!

2011-09-16T15:49:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone...
I hope you like my new look!
I had Molly over at Life Made Lovely
give me a facelift :)
She is amazing!

My new fall resolution... To blog more often ;)

The Lulu Headwrap

2011-08-28T16:59:00.000-04:00

This is the first of my ideas...
It is a super fun headwrap.
It fits me and my five year old daughter!
I'm selling them for $15

I'm going to be making a bunch and then adding them to the shop.
I'll keep you posted as to when that will happen.

She really didn't want her picture taken... stinker!

New Ideas

2011-08-27T23:30:00.000-04:00

I have two new ideas swirling around inside my head.
Lots of sewing is going on this weekend.
Can't wait to show you!
I'm hoping to get them completed Sunday so I can post them :)
I don't have a photo of my progress,
so I will give you some fun photos from a year ago...

My adorable children's toes... I love baby toes :)

Levi at one month old... CRAZY!

Levi at 13 months... ADORABLE!

Two Days in a Row...

2011-08-23T19:20:00.000-04:00

What is this?
I'm blogging two days in a row!
I worked hard again today getting 6 new cakes into the shop.
Tomorrow I plan on working on Christmas Advent Cakes!
There will only be a limited number of those so get them while the pickings good!

Here are the latest to grace the shop!

Hope you are having a great Tuesday!
I am off to Starbucks for my weekly girls night out with my bestie :)

I'm a Busy Little Bee

2011-08-22T16:20:00.000-04:00

Here are three new garlands I made this past weekend.
I am in love.
I am putting them in the shop today!

These are the paper selections that I am offering on a regular basis, for the cake slices.

Of course I can take on some custom orders.

So if you would prefer a cake in a color not listed

you can contact me via Etsy and we can figure it out :)

I will only be offering a limited number of assembled cakes.

All the other cakes will be sold as un-assembled slices.

Prices and listings are also in the shop.

I think this change will help keep me sane. :)

Here is my sweet little pirate.

I still can't believe he turned one a month ago!

We had fun celebrating him!

I also have been taking on photo shoots!
I LOVE taking photos of kids.
They are so sweet and their personality is just amazing.
This little cutie didn't want to smile :)
Instead, I got one of the most adorable shots!

As I said, I am a 'busy little bee' and I'm trying to get a lot of things accomplished before school starts next week! Yikes.

Still Here!

2011-08-12T13:07:00.001-04:00

Hello all...

I am still here.
I've been busy.
A lot has happened since my last post.
It took me 3 weeks to 'officially' have a miscarriage.
It was a long 3 weeks and a long ER visit too.
My body has recovered and I am doing better.
We went on vacation and it was wonderful.
I have lots of thoughts swirling around in my head
regarding life, disability and faith.
I'm hoping to put it all into words soon!

Roller Coaster Ride!

2011-07-01T14:32:00.001-04:00

I use to love roller coaster rides.
Fast.
Up and down.
Screaming.
Sad when they were over.

This week has been a roller coaster ride of life.
Today marks the 8 year anniversary of my first born.
She was born and gone in the same moment.
It was a gut wrenching experience.
One that has changed me forever.
I remember the day as if it were truly yesterday.
Something so tragic doesn't leave you ever!
The pain does lessen with each year.
But the memory of my baby girl never goes away.
I am glad about that.
I think of sweet Caylin everyday.
Not in a morbid way, but in a motherly way.
Around her birthday I think about the 'what if's'
What if we were celebrating 8 years of life here on earth.
What if she were a dancer.
What if she looked like me or jeremy.
What if... what if... what if!

Instead I do get to say...
She gets to spend her birthday in the arms of Jesus.
She gets to only feel the joy of her heavenly Father.
She gets to run and play.
I am okay with those thoughts.

While I still get sad here on Earth...
We get to meet her one day in Heaven.
We get to know that she is better taken care of then we could ever have done.
We get to tell our children that they have a sister in Heaven.
We get to have the comfort of our Jesus surrounding us, telling us he loves us!

I have also been thinking about the little life inside of me this week.
On Monday I had my very first ultrasound.
The tech had a hard time finding the baby.
Once she did she said, "the baby is only measuring 6 weeks."
I should have been 9 weeks.
There is a chance we could be off with dates.
But there is a chance that the baby has stopped growing.
I have had two blood tests this week.
The doctor wants to check my hormone levels to confirm if
this pregnancy is in fact still growing or if it has stopped.
I should find out today.
Out of all the days in the year. I will find out on Caylin's birthday/anniversary.
I am so nervous.
This week has gone by extremely fast and God has given me a peace all week.
I should be getting a phone call within the next few hours.
I will update you with the news when I find out.

*UPDATED* Just got a call telling me that my 'numbers' are not supporting this pregnancy. So now we wait to see what my body does.

What the What!?!?

2011-06-13T10:11:00.001-04:00

I am indeed pregnant!

I am shocked.

I can't say that I am overly happy about it, yet!

I am thankful for this new life God has blessed us with.

I am overwhelmed with emotions.

I can't even really explain how I am feeling.

Here is how I found out.

I have been dealing with gallbladder pain

for a few months now.

This week it was completely rearing it's ugly gallbladder head.

I was rushed to the ER twice this past week.

Once I was sent home after my ultrasound

noting I have 5 gallstones each the size of a marble.

Two days later. I am back in the ER

with more severe pain.

They admitted me, and they had

surgery scheduled for Sunday morning 8am

At about 11pm Saturday night the nurse came in

my room to tell me that I am pregnant and that

surgery is not an option anymore!

I was in tears. More so because now I have

to live with this pain for the next 8 months.

Plus my OB had highly recommended me not to even start

trying until Levi was 18 months old.

He is 10 months right now.

So, it wasn't even on my radar to even think that

being pregnant was possible.

Just wanted to keep you posted on what's been going on!

This does explain why I have been so moody.

Crying at everything.

Nauseated. You know the normal

pregnancy things.

Please don't misinterpret my shock as

me not wanting this baby.

I am thankful for this child and I

am now praying that all the medicines I

took prior to finding out will not have

any effects on this baby!

Thanks for your prayers!

i heart TVP

2011-05-12T11:50:00.000-04:00

The Vintage Pearl is what I am referring to!

All of her jewelry is awesome!

I don't have any yet, but I have lots on my list.

Head on over to her blog to enter to win a lovely piece :)

WEiGH in Wednesdays

2011-05-04T21:05:00.000-04:00

Today marks the end of my 6 weeks.
I haven't been as strict this past week,
but I weighed in this morning at 142.5
Down a total of 15 pounds.
Yay me.
For the next 3 months I will be on a low fat diet.
Trying to keep my gallbladder happy :)

I will still update on Wednesdays...
I have 18ish more pounds I would love to shed.
It's not going to go as fast as the first 6 weeks,
but that is okay.
I am making a conscious effort and working out.
That is really anybody can ask for.
Plus, when I say 'diet' I really don't want to lose all this
weight and then go back to my old ways.
That would just defeat the purpose of all my hardwork.
I have done that in the past too.
I lost 25 pounds, felt great, looked great.
Gained it all back :(

I want to look good the older I get.
I want my hubby to think I'm hot.
(he already does, but you know what I'm sayin')

I hope I've inspired at least one person to shed a few extra pounds that
are 'weighin' ya down :) yes that pun was intended :)

My sister's bridal showe was last weekend.
It was fun.
I have a ton of pictures.
I am working on that post.
Can't wait to show ya!

WEiGH in Wednesdays

2011-04-27T08:10:00.000-04:00

So if I thought the 4th week was rough.
The 5th week was a week from heck.

After last weeks weigh in I got ready for the day.
I started feeling not so great.
Nauseous and just blah.
I wanted to call in sick, but alas the mom can rarely take a sick day!

Wednesday, I went to bed only to wake up at 3am with excruciating pain in my side and in my back.
I had this before, so I was trying to get through the pain.
At about 5am I couldn't take it any longer...
Jeremy got the kids around and we headed to the ER.
I hate to throw-up.
I honestly haven't met anyone who really loves to or even likes to for that matter.
But I did SEVEN times in less than 4 hours. It was rough!!!
Once in the ER everyone acts so calm, it annoyed me! :)
My pain level was at a 10.
I was begging for drugs.
They were telling me to calm down or I would pass out from hyperventilating.
I didn't care... if I passed out I wouldn't feel the pain.
This is my logic!
The first drug they gave me... finally, barely touched the pain.
I asked how long do I have to wait before I get something stronger?
She said 20 minutes.
AHHHHH... if you've experienced any kind of never ending pain then you know that 20 minutes feels like a lifetime!
She came in after 15 minutes and asked where my pain level was now,
I said a 9. It barely touched the pain.
What she did next made me want to hug her and never let go!
I'm not quite sure what she gave me, but I don't think I will ever forget that feeling.
She inserted the drugs via my IV and in about 3 seconds I could feel it go through my body
and the pain was GONE. 3 SECONDS. It was lovely.

Blah, blah, blah a bunch of other things happened and they are pretty sure it's my gallbladder.
The funny part is our insurance doesn't start until May 1st. Which means that anything we pay will not go towards our deductible until 90 days after that. So I have to live with a gallbladder that hates me until sometime in August. I'm praying and hoping that I can do so and it doesn't get so bad that it needs to be removed before hand.

Okay since that happened I am just now starting to feel a bit 'normal'. Still a little off and some pain in my side, but better than last Wednesday through Sunday!!!! geesh. So I have not been able to work out at all and I am actually missing it. I also ate crackers, lots and lots of crackers and bread over the weekend. Oh and on Easter I snuck some chocolate :) I was also informed by my doctor that I need more protein in my diet. So I am not doing the Vegan diet anymore... I still have to be really careful though because lots of foods can give me another attack.

When I stepped on the scale though I did lose another pound :)
I am now at 143.5
That is down a total of 14 pounds.
I hope to keep losing weight, it will just be at a slower pace.
But that is okay with me as long as the weight keeps coming off!

Sorry for the super long post and with no pictures to boot!

Monday

2011-04-25T15:52:00.000-04:00

I know such an impressive title.
Hope you all had a blessed Easter.
From Thursday til Sunday I spent most of it either,
in bed or at the ER.
To save you all from a lot of boring talk.
My gallbladder does not like me anymore!
Today I went to see the Doctor.
She says I need an ultrasound.
I says, my insurance doesn't start until May 1st.
(which really means I still have to wait 90 days before I can apply anything to my deductible!)

So I am currently waiting to hear back from the Doctor
to see what foods I should avoid and what foods may help
to try and keep these gallbladder attacks at bay!
Cause they aren't pretty people!

She also told me this morning that by Doc's orders I need more protein.
So she told me to keep eating the healthy food, but to add in some other foods that are also healthy!
There you have it in a nutshell!
My gallbladder hates me!

WEiGH in Wednesdays... (a pretty rough week)

2011-04-20T09:19:00.000-04:00

Day 29 today!
Yesterday finished my 4th week.
Today starts week 5.
Crazy how fast this is going!

So after last weeks weigh in I was so excited.
Things were going great. I was getting 4 workout sessions in per week.
I was losing weight steadily. My jeans were getting looser.
Well my friends, last Thursday I went up a 1/2 a pound to 146.
That was heartbreaking.
And that has been my weight every day this week.
Today I stepped on the scale and I was expecting to see 146.
Instead I saw 145. So I will be happy about that, but not a whole lot of weight loss this week.
While it is only 1/2 of a pound we are talking about.
It is really discouraging every day.
I am eating so healthy it's ridiculous.
On top if it there was so much junk food in the house these past few days.
We celebrated Alaina's birthday and we had candy for the party.
I made 3 dozen cookies and 46 cupcakes.
Let me just say that frosting 46 cupcakes while on this diet is extremely hard.
And let me also say that making 3 dozen chocolate chip cookies
and really wanting to lick the beaters is like trying to pull a magnet off the fridge.
I will say that after all that, I didn't have one m&m.
I didn't eat one Hershey kiss.
I didn't lick one beater or spoon or bowl :)
I didn't eat a single cupcake.
I will tell you that I licked my finger (on accident) when it had a bit of frosting on it.
Oh well, I think I did pretty darn good with all those fabulous-o sweets right in front of my face.
I did find myself opening the bag of m&m's and just smelling them :) I'm weird.

This post is not meant to discourage you.
It's meant to keep it real.
Here's to hoping my jeans get a little loser this week :)
I hope you are doing good!
Let me know how your WEiGH in Wednesday is!
I guess I need Jillian to kick my butt a little harder this week!

Leaving you with this photo taken on Alaina's birthday.
She didn't really want her picture taken, but I insisted.
She wanted to play with her new toys. Typical kiddo :)

Can You Fall in Love with Jewelry?

2011-04-19T23:52:00.000-04:00

So recently I went to California!
Loved it.
I definitely want to go back....
Hopefully to meet some really rad blogger friends!

While I was at my photography workshop there was a lot of fun people there!
I loved meeting new people.
It was quite liberating and totally out of my comfort zone,
but it was awesome.
One of the super fun gals that was there in attendance was
the famous Crystal B.
I'll have to admit that I had never heard of her before my trip,
but I am so, so, so happy that I did.
She is my new favorite jewelry designer!
Plus, she is affordable!
On top of that she is friendly, spunky and super sweet!
'hi crystal' :)

Look what she sent me in the mail...

The cute little tin that my new jewelry came in! So fun!!!

The so stinkin' adorable necklace.
By the way I wore it last week and I got at least 3 random compliments on it!!!
So fun.

I am going to wear it for Easter sunday and I'm hoping to get a fun pic with my family!
We'll see, you know how that goes having to dress up the entire family before church and it's so crazy!!!

Oh and she has a ton of new fun designs coming into the shop! All of which I want!!!

So head on over to her Etsy shop and grab yourself a fun new necklace for the spring!!!

Princess Alaina Turns 7

2011-04-16T07:58:00.000-04:00

This isn't the best picture of Alaina... but it was windy out :)

I can hardly believe my baby is 7.
She is such a joy in our lives.
She is a sweetie and wants to be friends with everyone!

This year she is excited for her princess party,
She can't wait to be a flower girl in her aunt's wedding.
She is excited to start 1st grade.
She loves when she loses a tooth.

Happy Birthday Alaina
I love you very much xoxoxo

Faith Like a Mustard Seed

2011-04-15T14:28:00.001-04:00

Blogging is fun.
It's a way for me to let out some steam from the day.
While I don't blog everyday. I ultimately wish I could.
Time does not always allow me too.
When I do blog, it's mostly about me, me, me!
Sometimes there are opportunities that come our way
and we can either choose to talk about 'me,me,me', or help one another out!
I'm choosing to help.

Matthew 17:20

He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."

When something seems so impossible and the task seems so daunting... It's a beautiful thing to be able to lay your burdens at the feet of Jesus and know that He loves you. I am reminded of the song that Chris Tomlin sings:

And if Our God is for us, then who could ever stop us
And if our God is with us, then what can stand against?

Not only can you help the Farley family bring Sergey home but with a simple donation you could be entered to win a ton of amazing prizes including an iPad 2... say what?

Click here to go look at all the fab prizes and enter to win!

Sergey is so cute.
I can't imagine as a mom knowing where your son is
and not being able to go get him! It just breaks my heart!

WEiGH in Wednesdays

2011-04-13T08:47:00.000-04:00

Today is the day where I expose my weight to the world wide web!
How terrifying.
But today I have some great news.
All my hard work is paying off!
3 weeks ago I started at 157.5 pounds
Today... day 22 I weighed in at...

Go me, go me!!! (said in a sing songy voice)
A total of 12 pounds
3.5 pounds from last weeks weigh in.

It's not too late for you to join me!
Just think... when my 6 weeks are up you will be half way done, just like me right now!
You can do this. Believe me if I can do this... you can too.
I also have been working out 4 days/week for 30-40 minutes hard cardio.
I don't go to a gym I just use the Wii.

I also have been thinking lately and if I steadily loose weight like I have been (an average of 4 pounds/week) then I won't quite be at my goal at the end of 6 weeks. So I'm leaning towards extending my vegan adventures until I hit my goal. With my sisters wedding coming up in 8 short weeks... I really want to reach my goal 124 pounds... I am a third of the way there!

P.S. Every Tuesday I go out with my bestie for coffee at Starbucks. The past few weeks I just ordered water. Last night, I got a coffee. *GASP* It's not technically on the diet plan, but I was still good when I ordered it. I ordered a 'Tall soy mocha (with only two pumps instead of three) no whip, decaf'. I've never ordered a soy drink before. It was pretty yummy. I felt guilty the whole time I drank it and wish I hadn't ordered it, but I wasn't going to just throw $4 away!

P.S.S. If you decide to join me please let me know so I can encourage you along the way! Plus I would like you to join me on 'WEiGH in Wednesdays'. :)

Happy Wednesday to you!

Veggie Soup Recipe

2011-04-12T16:56:00.001-04:00

Ever since I had Panera Bread's 'Garden Veggie Soup' I have been craving it!
Every time I go though they have Black Bean Soup.
Which is yummy, but I have been craving the veggies :)

So I decided to create something similar but add some more yumminess.
Here is my made up recipe. I already know a few things I would try differently...

Veggie Soup:
5 TBSP Olive oil
2 TBSP minced garlic
2 stalks of celery
2 small zucchinis
1 red pepper - chopped
2 large carrots - chopped
1 cup of frozen green beans
1 cup of frozen sweet corn
1 red onion
4 red baby potatoes - diced
14.5 oz wax beans
14.5 oz garbanzo beans (next time I will use white beans)
14.5 oz petite diced tomatoes (next time I will blend it creating more of a liquid sauce)
1 - 32 oz veggie stock
2 cups of water
lots of parsley. fresh or dried.
salt and pepper to taste

Saute minced garlic in the heated olive oil. Add in veggies as you chop them up. Saute them for 10 minutes or so. It will look like above photo! Once cooked awhile in pan, transfer into a crock pot! Add in veggie stock and water. Cook on low 8-10 hours or high 4-6 hours. enjoy.

I am not a chef. So if there is something that you think would be better please share that with me. I may still be editing this recipe later. Either way, I tried it before the veggies were completely done, and I thought it was very yummy.

Tomorrow is weigh in wednesdays! come back to see how much weight I have lost :)

YUM!

Sweet Potato Fries

2011-04-11T20:27:00.000-04:00

This is what I had for dinner tonight.
It was so yummy!!!
I'm going to try and be better about posting what I have been eating.
Just in case anyone is interested.

To make these absolutely amazing fries it is really simple!
2 medium sweet potatoes peeled and cut up
1-2 TBSP of olive oil
sprinkle of salt
dash of pepper
garlic powder to taste
parsley

mix all ingredients in a bowl. place on a baking sheet and bake at 375˚ for 25 minutes. mix the fries up. bake for another 20 minutes or so. these were so tasty i was sad i had to share them with levi... he gobbled them up too :)

Okay, now for some shocking news on the weight loss front.
I know it is not 'weigh in wednesday' but I guess I will call it 'Measure up Monday' :)
Today is day 20 for me...
(I will leave you in suspense as to how much weight I have lost since last week,
but I have lost some. Yay, me!)
But tomorrow marks 3 weeks! That means I am half way done.
I decided to update my biggest loser girl.
So I got out the measuring tape.
People, I have lost 5 inches around my waist and a few more in other places.

I am so very proud of myself!
My jeans are getting looser and when I had to pull out the summer clothes yesterday for the 85˚ weather here in Michigan... they fit!!!

To be a healthy BMI for my height I still need to loose 22 pounds.
So here's to keep on keepin' on!

Seriously though, you must try these fries whether you are going to do this diet or not! AMAZING!

Fiesta Dip

2011-04-07T17:11:00.000-04:00

I completely forgot about this recipe.
I was going through some of my recipes and happened upon it again.
I'm in love.
This is so yummy!

Fiesta Dip

1 can (15 oz) Black Beans - drained and rinsed
1 can (15.5 oz) fiesta corn - drained
1 red onion - diced (i only used half of a large onion)
1/4 cup olive oil
1/8 cup white vinegar
1 packet (0.7 oz) Good Seasons Dry Italian dressing

3 roma tomatoes seeded and diced
2 avocados - peeled & diced
tabasco sauce or taco sauce to taste
salt & pepper to taste

Combine & mix first 6 ingredients in a bowl; cover, chill overnight.
(or make in the AM to serve in the PM) Before serving add tomatoes, avocados, Tabasco sauce, salt & pepper. Serve with tortilla chips! YUM!

*side note: I only had 1 tomato today so I cut that up and then I used left over yellow and green pepper. It still tasted very yummy!

It's basically a party in your mouth.

Enjoy!

WEiGH in Wednesdays

2011-04-06T09:22:00.000-04:00

Hi friends.
Today is day 15 of my diet.
Today is the day I post my weight for the entire internets to see ;)

drum roll please...

149

I went down two more pounds from last week.
I broke the 150 mark.
A total of 8.5 pounds lost
I was so happy the other day when I jumped on the scale to see 149.5
I do weigh myself everyday.
It's a great motivator for me :)

I feel great.
I am working out. I still don't like doing it, but I know it's good for me.
I made a black bean salsa yesterday. YUM. I will post the recipe later.

I am planning at the end to post my before and after photo of me.

Have a swell day all.

8 months...

2011-04-01T15:42:00.000-04:00

I can't even believe that my little guy is 8 months old already.

Actually, he is now over 8 months, but I still wanted to document his growth :)

He is a getting so chubby and I just love it! All my kids were/are chubby.

Alaina and Addie have grown out of it. Now it's just little Levi, who's not so little anymore!

Last week he started to crawl. He was really slow at first taking a few 'crawls' and then plopping down.

Now he is all over the place. Why is it that he can have every toy out on the floor, but he goes straight for the cords or my purse or the shoes?

His bottom teeth are trying to come in hardcore!

I mean seriously these are the most stubborn teeth I have delt with.

Which means a seriously cranky baby.

He hasn't been sleeping well, which means I have had fewer quiet moments.

Come on teeth.

I think you can, I think you can... you better hurry up!

I hope these baby legs aren't cutting off circulation!

Seriously how cute?!

Things you have been up to lately:

crawling.

sitting. you can get into and out of sitting by yourself, yay!

babbling. you are saying things like. ma-ma-ma-ma-ma, da-da-da-da-da, ba-ba-ba-ba.

you get really excited when you see yourself in the mirror :)

squealing REALLY loud.

eating more babyfood.

you like to talk with food in your mouth, which means a lot of it ends up on me.

you started eating the baby star puffs. you mostly go crazy when you see them and wave your arms all over knocking most of them on the floor.

you chewed on your first flip flop for a good 5 minutes before i realized it!

you take two naps.

you love your binky.

you love your lovey.

i need to hurry up and make him a new one, he's getting attached to a pink flowery one. oops.

no teeth yet, but i can see something trying to figure out what to do!

still loves to put everything in your mouth.

love ya levi :)

WEiGH in Wednesdays

2011-03-30T09:35:00.000-04:00

Today is Weigh in Wednesday!

i'm so happy i made it a whole week being a vegan.
it was tough.
i'm pretty sure i cried at least once.
i wanted to quit several times.
i think the first week is one of the toughest.
your body goes through shock.
saying,
'where are my preservatives?'
'i need sugar'
'you know you want to eat that!'

i was amazed to notice how much food i eat between meals,
while preparing food, just bored.
it's crazy.

well last week i said i was 157.
which i should have been more accurate and i was actually 157.5
this week i weighed in at
151.5
down a whole 6 pounds!

i am so proud of myself.
happy day to you :)

WEiGH in Wednesdays... a day late!

2011-03-24T20:33:00.000-04:00

Okay so I started my vegan diet yesterday.
It's going great, so far.
I hate telling people my weight, but I figured it's my only real accountability.
Plus, it's a great way for me to document my progress.

Yesterday, DAY 1, I weighed in at 157... eeek!
I guess I have a wee bit of an excuse. I had a baby 8 months ago.
Now I know some of you beautiful woman can get their baby weight off in like 2 weeks.
Well let me just say good for you :)
I am not one of them.
My body likes to hang on to the weight.
Well, maybe I just like the taste of
sugar, carbs, dairy... pretty much if consumed in large quantities = bad!
So maybe it's a mixture of the above.
My goal weight is 130.
I'm excited, to fit into my clothes and to feel healthier.

If anyone wants to join me. Start now, I would only be two days ahead of you.
My plan is to do this for 6 weeks.
And after those 6 weeks I want to keep my weight off, so I want to make better choices.
So join me :) Let me know if you do!

In case you are thinking. Um, yeah right. I can't just eat fruits and veggies for 6 weeks. She's crazy!
Well, hold on. I will tell you what I ate yesterday and today.

Wednesday:
breakfast/ banana and water. (i'm a light breakfast eater to begin with anyways!)
lunch/ corn chips and salsa, 1/4 of a yellow pepper, an apple and some water.
dinner/ we ate at Panera. Garden Veggie soup... YUM! and their Thai Chicken salad without the chicken... again YUM! (and of course water)
snack/ freshly popped popcorn, lightly drizzled with Olive oil and salt.

Thursday:
breakfast/ banana and water
lunch/ corn chips, salsa, guacamole and water.
dinner/ spaghetti squash with homemade sauce and water.
snack/ same as above :)

So there you have it folks. Two days done and I'm feeling great.
Although I did see a picture of really yummy looking lasagna and I think I licked my chops :)

It's a heat wave!

2011-03-21T22:58:00.000-04:00

I have been really trying not to purchase fabric, paper and ribbon.
I need to use up what I have.
I have a lot!
Well I have a plethera!
As in dang girl, that's not normal to have that much paper.
It's a fire hazard really!

Anyways, I had to stop into Hobby Lobby today to get more ribbon for my buntings.
I just had to check out the paper aisle.
It's half off this week.
And who knows when it will be on sale again? :)

I found two paper packs that I couldn't resist.
The above was one of them.
I said to myself as I stood in the paper aisle...
'self, if you buy this paper, you better do something with it!'
so after going back and forth for a minute or two with myself.
I agreed!
I got home and I immediately
cut up all the paper, organized it, glued it and took pictures for etsy.
So now I have available in the shop one fully assembled cake and one DiY kit.
(i have two more kits, but i only list one at a time.)
So there you have it, an extremelly accomplished feeling on my part!
Tomorrow I will tackle the other pack and I hope I am just as successful :)

On another note, I have a photoshoot tomorrow :)
It was suppose to be on Saturday, but I got a flat tire and so it needed to be rescheduled!

And lastly, I start my 6 week cleanse again on Wednesday.
I did this about 2 1/2 years ago and I successfully lost 25 pounds.
I am in my sister's wedding on June 4th and I really don't want to look 'puffy' in her wedding photos!
I have about 25 pounds to lose and
so by May 4th I'm really hoping that the fat will melt right off of me!
I am also going to be mixing it with working out.
I am doing the 'Biggest Loser' on the Wii. An excellent workout!!!
So I will be documenting it weekly.
Encouragement helps, so any comments would be greatly appreciated :)
I've done it before... I can do it again!

Matilda Jane Virtual Trunk Show

2011-03-18T10:54:00.000-04:00

Have you ever heard of Matilda Jane? It is so pretty. It makes me smile. I have never bought anything from them, but I have been drooling over their items for quite sometime now! I am going to be hosting a Virtual Trunk show on the 1st and 2nd of April. April 1st is when their new clothing line comes out! It suppose to be rad! I can't wait. I am going to get something for me :) We are going to have our family pictures taken this year and I want to look super cute :)

I am having a

Matilda Jane Clothing

Virtual Trunk Show!

**This line is by far our best yet!

Don't miss out! Things sell out quickly.**

www.matildajaneclothing.com

Catwalk chic meets backyard comfort!

Not to mention, mom-approved! Discover a
new form of expression with sizing from 3m-12y, with a selection of irresistible clothing for you. Inspire your little fashionista to seek out independence, with endless compliments guaranteed!

Hey there!

I will be hosting a Matilda Jane Virtual Catalog Show beginning on Friday, April 1st. All orders must be placed by 8:00pm on Saturday, April 2nd. Please call or email your order to Lauren, our Trunk Keeper, at 616-994-7220 or laurenn@matildajaneclothing.com She will also be available to answer any question you may have. Please also let her know that you are ordering for my show so you can save on shipping. There is a new feature on the Matilda Jane website called Wishlist. You can make your wishlist and email it to Lauren and then call her with your billing and shipping information. This is a really easy way to create your MJC order.

This is the beginning of a new launch and things will go quickly! The sooner you can get your order in, the more likely you are to get your first choices!

There are some awesome ADULT pieces in this line and even a few pieces for BOYS! Don't forget to treat yourself too!

Here is the link that you can use to view the
most recent Matilda Jane Clothing Collection.
http://www.matildajaneclothing.com/shop.php?CategoryID=24

**Please be sure to click on the picture to see if your size is available!**

Happy Shopping!!!

Lauren Nienhuis
Matilda Jane Clothing
Western Michigan Trunk Keeper
Home-616-994-7220
Cell-616-836-0891

Trunk ID# 170

Ten on 3.10.2011

2011-03-10T21:22:00.000-05:00

Today I am linking up with Rebekah from a bit of sunshine.

This is a fun way to document your day.

Ten photos on the tenth of the month!

Enjoy :)

9am: Levi is teething. I think these are the most stubborn teeth EVER!

Come out, come out wherever you are!

10am: Took a shower. Apparently with Belle.

I used my new Bed Head Shampoo and Conditioner. LOVE.

I am kind of a hair product freak.

I currently have in my shower (along with my new Bed Head)

Paul Mitchell's Tea Tree line and Biolage. YUM :)

11am: Arguing with my 5 year old about what she is going to wear for the day.

This is the foot of her closet. Nice.

After 25 minutes of arguing and going back and forth with her,

I picked the outfit. There were tears. She also wore flip flops.

We live in Michigan. It snowed today.

This should tell you just how difficult she is about her outfits!

12pm: Don't judge. Large Dr. Pepper please!

1pm: Had a parent meeting today at 'The Omelette Shoppe'.

Thankfully there was another little girl there. Addie made a new friend :)

2pm: Addie & Levi watched the fish swim around the indoor pond.

3pm: Oh my she is looking older and older!

Picked up Alaina at school.

This is a school designed for kids with Cerebral Palsy and Spina Bifida. LOVE it!

4pm: Making lasagna.

5pm: He is crabby. He is hungry. He still can't crawl. He is frustrated :)

6pm: The lasagna was yummy :)

7pm: Bathtime. What a cutie :)

P.S. All of my images are SOOC. No time to edit every single photo.

Rainy Day!

2011-03-09T10:46:00.000-05:00

Don't mind the cracker crumbs on Alaina's face :)

Today it is raining.
It sounds so soothing.
It is dark.
I love this kind of weather.
It is good for sleeping in.
Curling up.
Reading a good book.

I said to Alaina this morning.
"Alaina, do you hear the rain?
Doesn't that sound make you want to curl up on the couch with a good book?"

Her reply was,
"No, mom. It makes me want to go out and jump in the puddles. In pink boots!"

I love her and her outlook on life.

Festive Buntings

2011-03-08T09:20:00.001-05:00

This is what I have been working on for the past few days.
Lots and lots of triangles!
So cheery :)

Don't mind the rounded corners... I was trying something in Lightroom.
I love the new Amy Butler fabrics.
The fresh snow against the spring colors is so pretty :)

This reminds me of a vintage kitchen.
I love the spunk it gives!

I am in LOVE with this new bunting.
I'm sure I am not the first person to think up puffy clouds.
But I thought it added a sweet touch to this already fun bunting!

For whatever reason when I upload these photos to Etsy the colors are so muted and rather pukey. I'm not sure what happened because they are not that way on here or Facebook?! If anyone has any suggestions why Etsy is being so pooey with my images, I would appreciate it greatly!

I have more buntings waiting to go in the shop.

Check out my shop for all the new items.

˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚˚

Edited to say:
I figured out how to make the Etsy photos more colorful. I originally shot the images in RAW and then saved them as a JPEG. Apparently that affected the image quality on Etsy. Everywhere else it was fine, just not on the site. So I took all the photos over again and just switched the camera to JPEG instead of RAW. Worked :)

Wendy + Tyler = Blue Lily Awesomeness!

2011-03-01T15:36:00.000-05:00

Meet Wendy and Tyler... They are also known as Blue Lily. They are awesome.
Wendy is super sweet and super funny.
I love that a professional can be so silly and not always worried about what everyone thinks!
Tyler is just as sweet and has a smile that is so contagious.
If you don't smile when he does, then you're just weird!
A lot of good times were had during the workshop and hanging out at the par-tay house!
If you go to a Blue Lily GoPro Workshop be careful.
Tyler just might hijack your MAC and reconfigure your dock...
or if you play spoons you may break a finger nail!
Good times!

The first day we did a lot of listening and asking questions.
Playing around with our cameras.
Figuring out what exactly every button actually does!
I felt like my head was going to explode just a little :)
Thankfully it didn't!
Friday afternoon we headed down to the beach to do a little practicing before the first family arrived. I got a few good shots of some of the attendees!

Cam was a good sport hanging out with all us girls!
He is pretty awesome.
Cam you should start a blog!
Maybe one day you will be like Ansel Adams? Maybe!

Most of you know Megan.
She is hilarious.
She is super friendly.
She is even more amazing in person.
I'm so glad I was able to meet her.
I am going to try her Margaritas!
I bet it will be yummier than the ones we had in California.
One day I will make a trip to Kansas to visit!

This is my roomy Nikki :)
She is a hoot!
She can speak in a British Korean accent.
It's pretty amazing :)
I already miss you Nikki.
I WILL visit you in Seattle one day!

This is Dana... my other roomy for the weekend.
She is from Alberta, Canada.
She is a sweetheart!
She takes awesome photos.
She has a love for life and it was a privilege to get to know her!

This is Crystal B.

She is super fun.

I'm super happy I met her.

Not only does she take fun pictures,

she make AMAZING jewelry.

I am in love with your work Crystal

and I can't wait to purchase something from you!

After awhile the family showed up.

They were a super cute family!

We all felt bad, because it was a bit chilly.

Even for this Michigander! :)

It's a real word, look it up.

Here are a few of the family!

Such a sweet family!

This is the most gorgeous view out of the back of the house.
It was all windows...
very dreamy.

This is the street side of the house.
I only wish my family was with me to enjoy it!

That night we went to the famous In and Out Restaurant.
I had never heard of it before.
It was a typical fast food place.

Saturday...
Lots of more talk about, photog stuff, social networking, yada, yada, yada!
We had cute models for a indoor studio session.

We then had a fun shoot on an abandoned bridge.
Again, it was a wee bit chilly.
The bride did amazing
and didn't act at all cold!

Here is a picture of the whole bridge!

Southern California is such a pretty area.
I really didn't get to see a whole lot of it.
What i saw of it though, was beautiful.

Here is a few more of the gals that attended the workshop.
Debbie was such a fun addition to the group.
She was always happy and always had a great outlook on everything.
It was so nice meeting her.

Kelley from Atlanta joined our group too.
She is talented.
She can take rad photos
and she creates glass beads!
She is a rock star!

Like I said before... she is super fun and silly!

I am so happy I put on my big girl panties and went to this workshop!
It took some sacrifice from my family, but they survived and were so happy to have me return home.

That reminds me... when I finally arrived to Chicago, my flight to Grand Rapids was canceled. So the airline gave me a hotel voucher along with a food voucher. It was the nicest hotel I had ever stayed in. It gave me an extra night of sleep without interruption. I needed that!
I had a blast and left full of joy and knowledge.

This last photo is from the Blue Lily site. It is of all of us! Thanks for sharing it :)

Gracylu Originals...

2011-02-15T10:41:00.000-05:00

If you haven't heard of Gracylu Originals then you are missing out.
In fact she is so popular that you can't even be fast enough to purchase anything of hers!
She is currently doing a "Share and Steal" game where she picks a winner and you pay
only $5 plus shipping!
You only have a little time left so hurry on over!
Good luck!

Love is a Beautiful Thing...

2011-02-14T10:27:00.000-05:00

Today is Valentine's day!
We don't do a whole lot for this 'love'ly holiday. (hehehe, don't you just love my puns?)
We are going to take the girls out to use their book-it coupons :)

Today I just wanted to mention a friend's blog.
They have been on quite a journey.
Today is their second adopted daughter's "Gotcha Day"
It is also their oldest son's birthday.
You can read all about their story here.

Stacy is an amazing woman.
She homeschool's her 4 boys and one daughter soon to be two :)
She is a pastor's wife.
She is cute and spunky &
She loves God with all her heart and it shows!

If you have a few moments to go over to her blog and write her and Lucy a congratulations comment. That would be so sweet of you. They are going to make their blog into a book for little Lucy, so one day Lucy can read her story and see all the sweet comments!

Dressed to the Nines!

2011-02-12T16:14:00.000-05:00

She likes to dress herself!
I love this girl!
Happy Saturday to you :)

Snip, Snip!

2011-02-11T14:35:00.000-05:00

I just love this necklace!
I don't know where the source is from?
If you know... Please do share!

Almost 10 on 2.10.11

2011-02-10T21:27:00.001-05:00

Ten on Ten: Take a photo every hour for ten consecutive hours on the tenth of each month. Document a day of your life and find beauty among the ordinary moments.

*This is my first Ten on Ten... so I didn't quite get them all :) Oh well!

1. 9ish... This morning I caught the little dude chewing on his sisters coat!

2. 10ish... We were freezing cold so we had some hot cocoa. With marshmallows of course :)

3. 11ish... I decided I better work off those marshmallows and cocoa! Sorry for the blur!

4. 12ish... Getting ready to walk out the door to go play at open gym time at our church. Addie wanted to bring the book :)

5. Between 12:30 and 3 we were at the gym... I picked up Alaina... and we went to the doctor to get their ears checked. (Addie failed her second hearing test, more on that later)

6. 3ish... Enjoying a Starbucks. Because I was good at the doctor's office :)

7. 4ish... The girls enjoying some quiet time on the computer!

8. 5ish... I went through Alaina's backpack and read all of the school stuff and looked at her paperwork.

9. 6ish... Making dinner. Do you like my apron? I feel so grown up wearing it :)

10. 7ish... I checked the front porch to see if we got any packages. The girls flower girl dresses came today :) (Well we have to check the color to see if it will match the wedding dress) They are so cute!
They are from Target and were only $20! I also ordered another dress from Target. Still waiting on it. I will show it to you when it comes. That one is super cute too :)

Planning a Bridal Shower!

2011-02-10T00:28:00.001-05:00

My sister is getting married.
June 4th to be exact.
I am the Maid of Honor.
I'm not sure if I'm more excited to stand up in the wedding,
or plan her bridal shower? :)
It's going to be in March...
But I've already started planning.
Her colors are a daffodil yellow and a coral/pink. So pretty!
I decided to incorporate her colors, but to add some too.
I am doing a vintage floral theme.
Here are some of the things I've found so far.

These super cute cupcake liners from this shop!
They look kind of gold in this photo, but they are yellow :)

I also purchased these in pink and yellow! SO CUTE!!!

It took me forever to find a good variety of color choices, but I finally found a great site!
These straws will be the perfect touch!
I will be going back for more goodies :)
She is super nice and my items came quickly!

Who doesn't adore Amy Butler?
Her fabrics are so beautiful you could almost eat them!
Seriously I LOVE the new Soul Blossoms line!
I want every single pattern!
I did however order 8ish yards of various patterns... at this site.
It was like Christmas all over again! :)
I will be using these to make a fun floral bunting.
I just might make a few to go in the shop as well!

So that's all I have purchased so far!
I have lots more ideas brewing in my head about all the fun little details!
I love my sissy lots and I can't wait to throw her a shower she will remember forever!

He's Just So Darn Cute!

2011-02-09T13:11:00.000-05:00

I love this look when he is curious or not so sure of something :)

This is him looking at my camera, wondering 'what the heck?!'

Once I peeked around the camera... he saw me and then smiled :)

He got a hold of my embroidery hoop!

Oh I could just squeeze those cheeks... Hold on.

K I just did it :)

Updating the Shop!

2011-02-08T11:26:00.000-05:00

Today is the big day when I am going to be updating my Etsy shop!
The one thing that will be changing in the shop is I will no longer be taking custom orders.
Due to my growing family and my growing photography business,
I just can't take any custom orders.
I will only have a few cakes that are pre-made...So get those while you can!
Here is one of my favorites... Amy Butler paper, YUM!

I hope you come shopping.
Click HERE to come see.

Monday, Monday

2011-02-07T15:27:00.000-05:00

Today is Monday...
I don't really mind Monday's.
It gets us back into a routine and that is a good thing.
However, I was totally excited last night when I went to bed.
I could not stop thinking about my trip to Cali.
I couldn't hardly sleep.
I kept dreaming about the trip.
Then I would wake up and then I would think about flying.
I would start to panic and think what am I doing?
Oy vey!

On a crafty note... Today I am working on
another heart bunting for a friend.
I want to send it her way before the 'lovely' holiday passes us.
I am also finishing up a iPad cozy I am making for a friend's little boy.
What do you think?

This is the back... His name is Josiah!
What a lucky duck to have an iPad!

This is the front side.
I thought the denim added some fun texture!

This is the closest thing I have to an iPad :)
Looks pretty dirty!
My girls play on it a lot and well 5 and 6 year old fingers are not always super clean!

Exciting News!

2011-02-06T23:18:00.000-05:00

I am pretty much freaking out right now!
If you have never heard of Blue Lily Photography. Then you are missing out!
I am attending their goPro workshop the end of this month!
I am flying to Cali by myself.
I am staying in a house on the ocean, with complete strangers.
I am going to learn a ton of information about photography and business.
I get to meet Wendy and Tyler!

Aren't they cute?!

I found out about this amazing opportunity through Meg's blog.
So I am extra excited I get to meet her too!
I can't believe I am going.
I am excited.
I am nervous.
I just might throw up.
It will be an amazing experience. One that I will never forget!
Plus I get to go by myself. Like a big girl :)

Springy Colors

2011-02-05T11:25:00.000-05:00

I finally made myself a fabric rosette necklace!
I am in love and I can't wait to wear it!
I just used mostly scrap fabric I had for the flowers.
I purchased the baby pom pom trim from this shop.
Hope you have a beautiful Saturday.
Only 43 more days until Spring!

Fun and Easy!!!

2011-02-04T09:23:00.000-05:00

I'm not one to wear lots of jewelry.
My wedding ring and that's about it.
It's not that I don't love jewelry.
I do.
It just takes extra time to figure out what to wear.
Extra time I don't always have.
It sure does spruce up an outfit though!
So my goal is to wear more jewelry.
Collect/make as many pieces to add to my collection.
Plus jewelry always makes me feel more grown up :)
I found this tutorial and had to make it! I did and I LOVE it.
I love it so much I bought fabric in yellow, gray, red and pink!
So fun!
I made another necklace that I will show you tomorrow.
I'm not quite finished with it yet!

On another note...
I have a girls night out planned.
I am so excited.
I need a night out.
About 15-20 of us are going to see the Princess Diana exhibit.
It should be lots of fun.
Seeing all of Princess Diana's pretty things.
Then we are going out for dessert and coffee afterward!
The hubby is going to have to give Levi a bottle.
Wish him luck!
He practiced the other night... it went so so.
Okay, happy Friday to you!

I Heart Buntings!

2011-02-03T11:07:00.000-05:00

One of my bestest friends asked me to make her a heart bunting
for the upcoming holiday.
I was excited to make one and even more excited at how it turned out!
So excited that I decided to make one for me :)

We Got a Few Inches of Snow!

2011-02-02T14:45:00.000-05:00

We are trying to dig out of the snow that dumped on us last night!

$14 make-over

2011-02-01T14:45:00.000-05:00

Ten years ago we moved into this house!
Ten years ago I didn't like that gold chandelier. (No offense to those who may like that sort of thing!)
Ten years later, I still hate the said chandelier!
After thinking about wanting to replace the 'lovely' gold, I decided to try and revamp the fixture.
After all, how could I loose?!
If it didn't turn out, then I would have mangled it, needing to replace it = win.
If it did turn out, then I would have an in-expensive cute light fixture = win.
In August of 2010 my wonderful hubby went along with my hairbrained idea.
He took down the chandelier.
I quickly spray painted it black.
Fast forward 5 months later...
I was in TJ Maxx (love that store) and found a pretty tan linen shade for $12.99. SOLD.
I came home and pulled my chandelier into the kitchen.
I finished touching up the paint.
Tried to remember how to put the dang thing back together.
Once I figured it out. We were ready to turn the electricity back on.
Yes we didn't have electricity in our dining room since August! Talk about procrastination!
We got it all hooked up and the hubby went to screw the screws into the ceiling.
Can't find them... long gone.
So he makes a run to Home Depot.
We go through it all over again.
We bought the wrong screws.
Finally, we found some screws that would work and got it put up!
I love it.
I should say that I made a little sleeve for the chain and wires. It took all of 2 minutes to make!
It's probably not what I would have picked,
if I could have picked anything, but for $14, I will take it :)

Show me something you've turned from ug to fab!

My Baby is Growing

2011-01-31T22:07:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure when he decided to turn 6 months old?
Since he is so dang cute, I will not be too upset about it!

He is a 1/2 year old!

This is one of his favorite toys.

Levi you are 6 months old:
You are almost sitting on your own. Just a wee bit wobbly!
You started on rice cereal.
You LOVE your jumpy seat.
You rock back and forth while sitting on my lap a lot.
You started sleeping in your crib full time.
I'm letting you 'cry it out' during night time. You are doing great.
You roll onto your tummy and sometimes roll back onto your back.
When on your tummy you can rotate into a circle.
You cannot leave your hands out of your mouth.
You are starting to squawk more and more.
You are the happiest baby I have ever met!

Sprinkles

2011-01-24T19:27:00.000-05:00

We recently celebrated Addie's 5th birthday an I got a new lens :)

50mm f/1.4