Thursday, March 18, 2010
Salt Water, Sunshine, and the LOooooong Plane Ride Home!
Last week, we ventured down to Naples, Florida to enjoy some southern sunshine, and some of our most fabulous family members who reside there (and some who were visiting, like us...a.k.a. Mimi and Gramps). Fun, fun, fun, in the sun, sun, sun...(and the rain, rain, rain, two of the five days)! The rain allowed for us to do some fun trips, though..we went to the local zoo (formerly "Jungle Larry's" for those of you who know Naples), shopped at Tin City, had dinner at the Riverwalk Cafe, and meandered down 5th Avenue...some of my most favorite things to do!
We drank a lot of these.... ;)
And we did a lot of this (albeit the horrible sunscreen rashes both kids got...FYI, if you're looking to buy sunscreen for this awesome spring weather that is finally here, avoid the aveeno baby..eeeks!)
And loved seeing Aunt Marce, Uncle Ross, Tim, Andy, and last but not least, the matriarch and patriarch of the family, Nana and Papa! ;)
The flight home was pretty much...awful. As you can imagine, my child who doesn't like to sit for two minutes, had a pretty horrific time trying to sit still for over two hours. She literally CLIMBED me, pulled my hair, yelled, kicked, and made the flight oh, so NOT enjoyable. Can you believe I actually brought a BOOK in our carry-on bag? The poor guy sitting next to us...ugh! I told Daddy that next year we're ALL going down (he stayed home and continued our "hardwood floor" project and worked..)! We had a blast, though, and miss our Naples family so much, already!!!
We drank a lot of these.... ;)
And we did a lot of this (albeit the horrible sunscreen rashes both kids got...FYI, if you're looking to buy sunscreen for this awesome spring weather that is finally here, avoid the aveeno baby..eeeks!)
And loved seeing Aunt Marce, Uncle Ross, Tim, Andy, and last but not least, the matriarch and patriarch of the family, Nana and Papa! ;)
The flight home was pretty much...awful. As you can imagine, my child who doesn't like to sit for two minutes, had a pretty horrific time trying to sit still for over two hours. She literally CLIMBED me, pulled my hair, yelled, kicked, and made the flight oh, so NOT enjoyable. Can you believe I actually brought a BOOK in our carry-on bag? The poor guy sitting next to us...ugh! I told Daddy that next year we're ALL going down (he stayed home and continued our "hardwood floor" project and worked..)! We had a blast, though, and miss our Naples family so much, already!!!
Monday, March 08, 2010
Let the Sun Shine!
It's amazing what a little bit of warm sunshine on your face can do for a weary spirit! It's been such a long time since we were able to get outside and play, and run around, comfortably, without snowpants, coats, hats, mittens, and the whole winter get-up! Today was gorgeous--high 50's and pure sunshine. The kids and I put on our boots (as the snow is still melting, so it's muuuuddy out there ;) and went "exploring" in the wooded area behind our house. They thought it was the.greatest.thing.ever...seriously. They were so excited! We found a little stream that we had never really explored before and that was the icing on the cake! So much fun...I was giddy right along with them!
We needed this. We lost one of my mom's very dear friends to breast cancer last week, and it's been a little emotionally taxing. She was an incredible woman, self-less, and with abounding faith. Her service was amazing, but really pulled heart-strings that I wasn't quite ready to have pulled. Gretchen battled cancer for 13 years, and was diagnosed right after the birth of her third child. She did it with such dignity and grace, and the impact she had on everyone around her was so evident, especially at her time of passing, and it was yet another reminder of how much we need to savour every moment, and make the most of each second we are given on this earth!
So, the sunshine was good, and we made the most of it! The kids have had a rough couple of weeks due to bronchitis, and an ear infection. We had a week or so of redemption, and they seem to have been hit again. I just spent 20 minutes in Connor's room while he sweated in my arms, having night terrors. Too much medication, I am sure! The poor baby's lungs are the recipients of each and every cold virus that comes along, and he wheezes, and coughs something painful....meaning sleep doesn't come easily, to any of us! Tonight will probably not be very restful being that I had to give him benedryl, xopenex, and pulmicort before bed. I hate it, and I hate that he suffers. It's so hard to watch his little body struggling to breathe. It's at these times that I am reminded of the fact that we HAVE medicine to give our children, as well as doctors to over-see their care. As horrible as it is to watch your child in pain, at least we know that we have remedies for their ailments. I cannot imagine having to sit and watch as your child suffers, and not be able to get the medicine that they need. I just finished reading McMama's blog before I heard Connor's cries. She and her husband are visiting Kenya with Compassion International. Wow....puts things in perspective, that's for sure.
Anyway...I apologize for the rambling...I think I'm ready for bed, so I'm just "streaming" right now! ;) The kids and I leave for Florida this week, and we're really excited!! Just hoping and praying that the sickies are left behind when we board the plane (and that no other sick germs attack while we fly--should I make them wear masks? :)
Have a blessed week!!! More from the sunny south!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We needed this. We lost one of my mom's very dear friends to breast cancer last week, and it's been a little emotionally taxing. She was an incredible woman, self-less, and with abounding faith. Her service was amazing, but really pulled heart-strings that I wasn't quite ready to have pulled. Gretchen battled cancer for 13 years, and was diagnosed right after the birth of her third child. She did it with such dignity and grace, and the impact she had on everyone around her was so evident, especially at her time of passing, and it was yet another reminder of how much we need to savour every moment, and make the most of each second we are given on this earth!
So, the sunshine was good, and we made the most of it! The kids have had a rough couple of weeks due to bronchitis, and an ear infection. We had a week or so of redemption, and they seem to have been hit again. I just spent 20 minutes in Connor's room while he sweated in my arms, having night terrors. Too much medication, I am sure! The poor baby's lungs are the recipients of each and every cold virus that comes along, and he wheezes, and coughs something painful....meaning sleep doesn't come easily, to any of us! Tonight will probably not be very restful being that I had to give him benedryl, xopenex, and pulmicort before bed. I hate it, and I hate that he suffers. It's so hard to watch his little body struggling to breathe. It's at these times that I am reminded of the fact that we HAVE medicine to give our children, as well as doctors to over-see their care. As horrible as it is to watch your child in pain, at least we know that we have remedies for their ailments. I cannot imagine having to sit and watch as your child suffers, and not be able to get the medicine that they need. I just finished reading McMama's blog before I heard Connor's cries. She and her husband are visiting Kenya with Compassion International. Wow....puts things in perspective, that's for sure.
Anyway...I apologize for the rambling...I think I'm ready for bed, so I'm just "streaming" right now! ;) The kids and I leave for Florida this week, and we're really excited!! Just hoping and praying that the sickies are left behind when we board the plane (and that no other sick germs attack while we fly--should I make them wear masks? :)
Have a blessed week!!! More from the sunny south!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Just about 22 hours of heaven....
Wow....getting away was...incredible. Isn't it amazing how you don't realize how much you NEED to get away until it happens. Sometimes it seems like too much effort/money/production/etc., but it's so worth it, and necessary. I feel like I need to step back at times from my role as mommy, teacher, house cleaner, and all of the tasks that go along with each of these roles, and just....be.
Tommy and I left one sick kiddo, and one, hmmmmm...."extra-energetic" kiddo with my parents on Thursday...well, actually, with Tommy's parents at first, they were then picked up by my mom later that afternoon--gotta love having two sets of grandparents near by! ;) We drove about an hour until we reached our gorgeous destination. Nestled into the hills and trees, among 120 acres of incredible landscape, we checked into the charming Scottish Inn. There is something about the feeling of not having to rush to do anything, be anywhere, or tend to someone else's needs that allows one to completely relax. We arrived at 3:00pm, and the cocktail hour before dinner wasn't until 6:30. My first thought was to take a nap (of course), but instead we decided to take advantage of the beautiful setting and get outside.
One of the foundations of Tommy and my relationship is exploring the terrain together--doing physical things, and being outside. In the summer, we love to go for long walks together. When we vacation on the beach, one of our most favorite things to do is walk the beach all day long. Some of the things we used to do all of the time are no longer regular occurrances due to the kiddos. Don't get me wrong--we do get outside together as a family quite a bit. But to be together, just the two of us, amidst the most beautiful backdrop I have witnessed in quite some time was divine. Ahhhhhhhhh.......I felt like I was myself. Just me....a glimpse of who I used to be in my earlier years! ;) And together, we felt so young and carefree!!! It was invigorating and romantic just the same! It made me realize just how important it is to take time out in your marriage to do the things you adore doing as a couple. So often we do things by ourselves, or with the kids, or with our respective friends....but neglect to do things as a couple. This was so good for us, and made us appreciate each other so much!
Can you believe the size of the icicles in the gorge? Amazing!
Here's Tommy hanging out next to them, for reference of their size!
Remember when I posted about getting new boots? My old UGGS have had it, and it's time for some new ones. Well....still never got them. Soooo, it was a little treacherous, hiking through the snowy trails in boots with no traction what-so-ever. I did slip and fall quite a few times. So, when Tommy decided to go down into the gorge, I stayed at the top and looked on. He disappeared down at the bottom, exploring and galavanting through the caves. I enjoyed the quiet. It was breath-taking. Sooooo quiet you could hear a pin drop. The only sounds were that of my breath, and the occassional rustle of the wind through the trees causing a gentle mist of snow to cascade from their sheilding branches. God's creation at it's finest. Glorious.
After hiking, it was nice to return to our cozy room, turn on the fire, and get ready for dinner. Six courses. Divine. Dinner was served by candlelight, and as we ate, we watched the flicker of the candle reflect in the window next to our table, illuminating the dripping icicles hanging along the roof line. The main course was filet mignon...usually one of our favorites. Unfortunately, the chef prepared it in a soy sauce making it a little too salty for our liking, but it was still amazing, and we were soooo full from the previous four courses, that it didn't really matter, anyway.
We were able to get out and hike again the next morning after a delightful breakfast, which consisted of the most wonderful homescones and Scottish oatmeal I've ever tasted.
So refreshing, renewing, and nice to be together. 22 hours of heaven...that's what it was!
Tommy and I left one sick kiddo, and one, hmmmmm...."extra-energetic" kiddo with my parents on Thursday...well, actually, with Tommy's parents at first, they were then picked up by my mom later that afternoon--gotta love having two sets of grandparents near by! ;) We drove about an hour until we reached our gorgeous destination. Nestled into the hills and trees, among 120 acres of incredible landscape, we checked into the charming Scottish Inn. There is something about the feeling of not having to rush to do anything, be anywhere, or tend to someone else's needs that allows one to completely relax. We arrived at 3:00pm, and the cocktail hour before dinner wasn't until 6:30. My first thought was to take a nap (of course), but instead we decided to take advantage of the beautiful setting and get outside.
One of the foundations of Tommy and my relationship is exploring the terrain together--doing physical things, and being outside. In the summer, we love to go for long walks together. When we vacation on the beach, one of our most favorite things to do is walk the beach all day long. Some of the things we used to do all of the time are no longer regular occurrances due to the kiddos. Don't get me wrong--we do get outside together as a family quite a bit. But to be together, just the two of us, amidst the most beautiful backdrop I have witnessed in quite some time was divine. Ahhhhhhhhh.......I felt like I was myself. Just me....a glimpse of who I used to be in my earlier years! ;) And together, we felt so young and carefree!!! It was invigorating and romantic just the same! It made me realize just how important it is to take time out in your marriage to do the things you adore doing as a couple. So often we do things by ourselves, or with the kids, or with our respective friends....but neglect to do things as a couple. This was so good for us, and made us appreciate each other so much!
Can you believe the size of the icicles in the gorge? Amazing!
Here's Tommy hanging out next to them, for reference of their size!
Remember when I posted about getting new boots? My old UGGS have had it, and it's time for some new ones. Well....still never got them. Soooo, it was a little treacherous, hiking through the snowy trails in boots with no traction what-so-ever. I did slip and fall quite a few times. So, when Tommy decided to go down into the gorge, I stayed at the top and looked on. He disappeared down at the bottom, exploring and galavanting through the caves. I enjoyed the quiet. It was breath-taking. Sooooo quiet you could hear a pin drop. The only sounds were that of my breath, and the occassional rustle of the wind through the trees causing a gentle mist of snow to cascade from their sheilding branches. God's creation at it's finest. Glorious.
After hiking, it was nice to return to our cozy room, turn on the fire, and get ready for dinner. Six courses. Divine. Dinner was served by candlelight, and as we ate, we watched the flicker of the candle reflect in the window next to our table, illuminating the dripping icicles hanging along the roof line. The main course was filet mignon...usually one of our favorites. Unfortunately, the chef prepared it in a soy sauce making it a little too salty for our liking, but it was still amazing, and we were soooo full from the previous four courses, that it didn't really matter, anyway.
We were able to get out and hike again the next morning after a delightful breakfast, which consisted of the most wonderful homescones and Scottish oatmeal I've ever tasted.
So refreshing, renewing, and nice to be together. 22 hours of heaven...that's what it was!
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Happy Anniversary!!!
Nearly eight years ago, Tommy and I said our "I-do's" on a bright, sunny, 50 degree day, that made conditions perfect for taking pictures outdoors! I wore a strapless dress, and was so warm due to the brilliant sunshine, blue skies, happiness and adrenaline, that I was able to get all of my outdoor shots without wearing a cape around my shoulders! My poor bridesmaides must not have been quite as high on adrenaline, as I do believe they froze in their strapless gowns, taking pictures outside the church with bare shoulders and arms! ;)
Our wedding was perfection, aside from the groomsmen (and women) dropping like flies with various illnesses...Tommy's one and only sister was so excited to be his best (wo)man, and was over-taken by the flu during our rehearsal dinner. God bless her, she made it to the wedding, flu and all, but was in no shape or condition to walk down the isle...I can't believe looking back, that she made it at all--unable to keep anything down! Poor thing! Thankfully her husband stepped in as a groomsmen!
One of the problems with holding a winter wedding, and flying people in from all over the country, is the germs that come with them...especially on planes! Tommy's poor eldest brother (who had graciously stepped in as his best man) made it through half of the ceremony, until, over-taken by strep throat and the overwhelming urge to faint, had to step down and sit out the rest....meaning Tommy's next brother stepped in as the best man, and was forced to write a speech on the way over to the reception--which was actually very well-written and poignant!
But, other than all of the illness in Tommy's poor family, our wedding was perfect--a dream come true! :) Eight years ago on February 23rd we promised to love each other, respect each other, be true to each other, in sickness and in health, through thick and thin, kids and tantrums, puppy training, potty training, breastfeeding, no sleep, times when the money is flowing, and when it comes to a complete hault, grumpy times, and happy times, through moves, new jobs, lost jobs, births, and deaths, new wrinkles, balding heads, and graying hair (all due to the two who joined us since our wedding ;)...we've seen a lot in eight short years. And though at some points I'm sure we've re-neged a bit on our promise to respect, I know that we have never stopped loving. And that promise remains true today, tomorrow, and always! (And the respect thing--well, that's always a work in progress, and has gotten a lot better over the years! ;)
In order to celebrate eight years together, we are going away tomorrow night. A beautiful Scottish Inn amidst a hundred acres of hiking trails in the middle of the snowiest winter we may have ever seen, awaits us. A six course meal, and a beautiful room looking over the woods...and, no kiddos! For 24 hours....bliss! ;) We are very excited, and although our time away will be short, it will be worth every second, I am sure! Happy anniversary my love...looking forward to an eternity together with you!
xoxoxoxo!
Saturday, February 13, 2010
I WON, I WON!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm soooo excited! I jumped on here to check on all of my lovely friend's blogs, and as I hopped over to With a Chirp, a Buzz, and a Lion's Roar by the lovely Jess (who just so happens to be one of my earliest childhood friends :), I was in shock and awe as I realized I WON HER GIVE-AWAY!!! Woohooo!
Jess is an incredible seamstress and designer of children's clothing, and I'm off to email her Brookie's size and will be overcome with anticipation and excitement, waiting to see what she creates!!!!!!!!!!!!! THANK YOU, JESS!!!
xoxoxoxo!!!
Jess is an incredible seamstress and designer of children's clothing, and I'm off to email her Brookie's size and will be overcome with anticipation and excitement, waiting to see what she creates!!!!!!!!!!!!! THANK YOU, JESS!!!
xoxoxoxo!!!
Friday, February 12, 2010
Rockin'
My awesome friend Heather made this hat for Connor...she needed a project during our winter snowstorm, so she tried something new! How cute is this??? :)
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Taken....
I've been "window shopping" today as I sit from my couch, comfy and SNOWED IN!!! I spied this in the Boden catalogue that came today...I'm taken. I'm contemplating attempting to hand-make one...what do you think? :)
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
Snowmagoodness....
The snow began on Friday--the heaviest, fattest, flakes I've seen in a loooong time, falling at the rate of an inch an hour! We had some dear friends over for a playdate...some of whom got to be snowed-in with us a good part of the day!
And, it kept falling all of Friday night until noon on Saturday! I think we had snowfall totals of 15 or 16 inches....
We had a couple of really cold, sunny days, and voila, it's snowing again! Another 5-8 inches today! Eeeeks! Tommy just got home early, and I cancelled my classes this morning...we're snowed in, again! Thank the Lord for our wonderful neighbors up the street who had Connor over this afternoon, because cabin fever has set in, big-time! ;)
I think I'll attempt to bake shortbread cookies with my new cookie press that was just delivered from the Pampered Chef this afternoon....it's a shortbread kind of day! ;)
Hope you're all staying safe and warm...I know a lot of you are snowed in, as well!!!
xoxoxoxoxo!!!!
And, it kept falling all of Friday night until noon on Saturday! I think we had snowfall totals of 15 or 16 inches....
We had a couple of really cold, sunny days, and voila, it's snowing again! Another 5-8 inches today! Eeeeks! Tommy just got home early, and I cancelled my classes this morning...we're snowed in, again! Thank the Lord for our wonderful neighbors up the street who had Connor over this afternoon, because cabin fever has set in, big-time! ;)
I think I'll attempt to bake shortbread cookies with my new cookie press that was just delivered from the Pampered Chef this afternoon....it's a shortbread kind of day! ;)
Hope you're all staying safe and warm...I know a lot of you are snowed in, as well!!!
xoxoxoxoxo!!!!
Wednesday, February 03, 2010
Five for Five....
Copied from. Ms. Marie's blog Every Day Matters
Here’s how it works:
The first five people to leave a comment on this post will get something from me.
But in return, you have to do the same thing on your blog and make something for five other people. The details are as follows, and if you want to play, copy the following onto your blog and leave me a post:
1. I make no guarantees that you will like what I make. Whatcha get is whatcha get.
2. What I create will be just for you, with love.
3. It’ll be done this year (2010).
4. I will not give you any clue what it’s going to be. It will be something made in the real world and not something cyber. It may be weird or beautiful. Or it may be monstrous and annoying. Heck, I might bake something for you and mail it to you. Who knows? Not you, that’s for sure!
5. I reserve the right to do something strange.
6. In return, all you need to do is post this text on your blog and make 5 things for the first 5 to respond to your blog post.
7. Send your mailing address – after I contact you.
Here’s how it works:
The first five people to leave a comment on this post will get something from me.
But in return, you have to do the same thing on your blog and make something for five other people. The details are as follows, and if you want to play, copy the following onto your blog and leave me a post:
1. I make no guarantees that you will like what I make. Whatcha get is whatcha get.
2. What I create will be just for you, with love.
3. It’ll be done this year (2010).
4. I will not give you any clue what it’s going to be. It will be something made in the real world and not something cyber. It may be weird or beautiful. Or it may be monstrous and annoying. Heck, I might bake something for you and mail it to you. Who knows? Not you, that’s for sure!
5. I reserve the right to do something strange.
6. In return, all you need to do is post this text on your blog and make 5 things for the first 5 to respond to your blog post.
7. Send your mailing address – after I contact you.
Monday, February 01, 2010
Progression of the White Paint Project
So, we started painting some of our trim last week.....the living room is done, and I was so excited to hang my new espresso colored, silk dupioni drapes from the Barn (as my husband so lovingly refers to it ;), but alas, I'm not too happy with the purchase. To the right, the gold drapes that we already had, and to the left, the espresso colored new drape. Not digging it. Oh well...I have a lot of other stuff to buy still, so that's okay. What do you all think?
Here's a close-up of the mantle:
And, a close-up of one of the pics on the mantle. I found it in the basement last week, and it's hilarious! I can't believe how young we were--16, and 18 respectively...right before T's senior prom! ;)
We still have a lot of work to do--I'll keep updating as more progress is made...but first, that means I have to get back to it...yikeys! ;)
Here's a close-up of the mantle:
And, a close-up of one of the pics on the mantle. I found it in the basement last week, and it's hilarious! I can't believe how young we were--16, and 18 respectively...right before T's senior prom! ;)
We still have a lot of work to do--I'll keep updating as more progress is made...but first, that means I have to get back to it...yikeys! ;)
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Ms. Brooke
A little less than 2 months shy of two, and she's definitely a diva in training. Here are a couple recent pics of Ms. Brookie Cookie herself! ;)
Giant Busy Box....
This was a Christmas gift from my dear Aunt Amy for Brookie....and it's soooo much fun!!! The kids have found so many awesome projects within this giant busy box! Today, we made four paper bag puppets! Connor and Brookie made a cow and a lion this morning, and Connor's friend is over this afternoon and they are currently working extremely hard making an elephant and a frog, respectively!
A perfect way to keep busy on these dreary winter days.... :)
Monday, January 25, 2010
Seriously?
Did I really type the word "inpact" below in my "Much Ado About Nothing Post"? Seriously.....
Sorry all, apparently the lack of sleep has been affecting me lately. Wait, is it affecting, or effecting? Seriously? Seriously....
XOXO! ;)
Sorry all, apparently the lack of sleep has been affecting me lately. Wait, is it affecting, or effecting? Seriously? Seriously....
XOXO! ;)
Saturday, January 23, 2010
A Joyful Heart...
I think of myself as a happy person, glass half-full (or over-flowing sometimes :) kinda girl. But, as of late, I've caught sight of "Ms. Grumpy Pants" reflecting in the mirror. I don't know why....maybe I'm tired? Maybe I've been burning the candle at both ends...maybe a little bit of everything all thrown in the mix. Connor will say, "Mommy, are you mad at me?"...to which I'll respond (certainly with no grumpy or slightly annoyed undertones)..."NO Connor, WHY would I be mad at you?" Tommy has accused me on quite a few occassions of being grouchy over the last couple of weeks, which then really gets my blood boiling, and makes me even more so, (even though I'm NOT grouchy...of course). ;)
Well, as I told you last time, I've made a few life-style adjustments lately. I'm revamping my eating habits, getting back into the habit of regular exercise, working on some home-improvements....but last night I came to a realization. All of this is well and good, but if I'm not doing these things with a joyful heart, than I might as well not do them at all!!!
I teach music classes for children a couple mornings a week-something which makes me oh, so happy. I consider it more of a priviledge than a job, for the most part! Our extraordinary director had a belated holiday party for all of us last night, and the theme was "Simple Gifts". After a delightfully elegant dinner, she read the words to the Quaker song which says:
'Tis the gift to be simple,
'tis the gift to be free,
'tis the gift to come down where you ought to be,
And when we find ourselves in the place just right,
It will be in the valley of love and delight.
Refrain:
When true simplicity is gained,
To bow and to bend we shan't be ashamed.
To turn, turn will be our delight,
'Til by turning, turning we come round right
'Tis the gift to be loved and that love to return,
'Tis the gift to be taught and a richer gift to learn,
And when we expect of others what we try to live each day,
Then we'll all live together and we'll all learn to say,
Refrain:
'Tis the gift to have friends and a true friend to be,
'Tis the gift to think of others not to only think of "me",
And when we hear what others really think and really feel,
Then we'll all live together with a love that is real.
I adore this song. I've always loved the melody, but never stopped to really let the words sink in. I love the idea of "simple gifts", and a JOYFUL heart! I am so excited to not only begin a few life-style adjustments, but also a reformation of the heart!!!! I have so much to be thankful for--so, so many gifts. And I thank you, all of my wonderful friends and family, for the simple gift of your friendship. And with a joyful heart, I'm off to paint another section of window molding! ;)
Well, as I told you last time, I've made a few life-style adjustments lately. I'm revamping my eating habits, getting back into the habit of regular exercise, working on some home-improvements....but last night I came to a realization. All of this is well and good, but if I'm not doing these things with a joyful heart, than I might as well not do them at all!!!
I teach music classes for children a couple mornings a week-something which makes me oh, so happy. I consider it more of a priviledge than a job, for the most part! Our extraordinary director had a belated holiday party for all of us last night, and the theme was "Simple Gifts". After a delightfully elegant dinner, she read the words to the Quaker song which says:
'Tis the gift to be simple,
'tis the gift to be free,
'tis the gift to come down where you ought to be,
And when we find ourselves in the place just right,
It will be in the valley of love and delight.
Refrain:
When true simplicity is gained,
To bow and to bend we shan't be ashamed.
To turn, turn will be our delight,
'Til by turning, turning we come round right
'Tis the gift to be loved and that love to return,
'Tis the gift to be taught and a richer gift to learn,
And when we expect of others what we try to live each day,
Then we'll all live together and we'll all learn to say,
Refrain:
'Tis the gift to have friends and a true friend to be,
'Tis the gift to think of others not to only think of "me",
And when we hear what others really think and really feel,
Then we'll all live together with a love that is real.
I adore this song. I've always loved the melody, but never stopped to really let the words sink in. I love the idea of "simple gifts", and a JOYFUL heart! I am so excited to not only begin a few life-style adjustments, but also a reformation of the heart!!!! I have so much to be thankful for--so, so many gifts. And I thank you, all of my wonderful friends and family, for the simple gift of your friendship. And with a joyful heart, I'm off to paint another section of window molding! ;)
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Much Ado About Nothing.....
Sooooo....first and foremost, I need to get my act into gear. Remember all of those lovely posts about running...yeah, I sure was loving it...when it wasn't bittah cold out...like it is now. Now, I'm really enjoying my evenings snuggling in for the night with a glass of wine and some chocolate, or cookies, or something delightfully sinful that's totally unhealthy...whilst crafting, or watching t.v....on my bottom...which is growing larger by the minute!
Ridiculous, I say, absolutely ridiculous! I have got to amend this situation and now. I have a bad habit of just picking at food all day long, insead of planning healthy meals, three times a day. That needs to change, too. So, I am about to begin a reformation...we'll see how it goes...I'll keep you posted! Anna's wedding is in September, and she sent me pics of some ideas for bridesmaid dresses...yep...gotta start working now so that come September, I'll be ready to squeeze myself into one of those hottie dresses! ;) HA!!!! ;)
On a totally different note, we are doing some house reformation, or renovation as the case may be, as well. We didn't build our house, but the people who did opted to put in dark stained trim, throughout. I really, really detest it, but have detested even more the thought of having to 1) replace all of the trim, or 2) PAINT all of the trim....but, we're sucking it up and getting out our painter's tape and our brushes. We're almost done with the living room, and although it does take a lot of time, it's so incredibly worth it. I finished the mantle and the window casings in the living room this afternoon, and the inpact it makes is amazing. New drapes and a few new accessories and at least one room will be good to go....it's a start, at least! :) I'll have to post before and after pics soon!
Ridiculous, I say, absolutely ridiculous! I have got to amend this situation and now. I have a bad habit of just picking at food all day long, insead of planning healthy meals, three times a day. That needs to change, too. So, I am about to begin a reformation...we'll see how it goes...I'll keep you posted! Anna's wedding is in September, and she sent me pics of some ideas for bridesmaid dresses...yep...gotta start working now so that come September, I'll be ready to squeeze myself into one of those hottie dresses! ;) HA!!!! ;)
On a totally different note, we are doing some house reformation, or renovation as the case may be, as well. We didn't build our house, but the people who did opted to put in dark stained trim, throughout. I really, really detest it, but have detested even more the thought of having to 1) replace all of the trim, or 2) PAINT all of the trim....but, we're sucking it up and getting out our painter's tape and our brushes. We're almost done with the living room, and although it does take a lot of time, it's so incredibly worth it. I finished the mantle and the window casings in the living room this afternoon, and the inpact it makes is amazing. New drapes and a few new accessories and at least one room will be good to go....it's a start, at least! :) I'll have to post before and after pics soon!
Friday, January 15, 2010
WINNER, WINNER!!!!
Thank you so much for all of your entries! ;) I took pics of the kiddos drawing name(s), but alas, the camera is downstairs and I am upstairs, and I think it might be asking too much of my lazy buns to go all the way down there to upload pictures of the official drawing! :) So, you'll just have to trust me on this one!!!! ;)
Because I have TWO kiddos, who bicker over everything, one didn't think it was fair that the other one got to draw a name and he didn't, I had to be fair to avoid an argument, so two names were drawn from from the pile.....
And..............
Heather Beach Photography was drawn by the lovely Brooke! ;)
And................
"So Happily Us" (Margaret) was drawn by the dashing Connor!
Congrats ladies!!! Email me with your info and I'll send out your gifts right away! :)
brookiecookiesbows@yahoo.com
And, to all of you who didn't win this time, no worries...I'm sure you can tell how much I love to give these things away, so we'll do a V-day giveaway in February, fo sho! ;)
Thanks so much for all of your sweet comments and words of encouragement!!!
XOXO,
Liz
Because I have TWO kiddos, who bicker over everything, one didn't think it was fair that the other one got to draw a name and he didn't, I had to be fair to avoid an argument, so two names were drawn from from the pile.....
And..............
Heather Beach Photography was drawn by the lovely Brooke! ;)
And................
"So Happily Us" (Margaret) was drawn by the dashing Connor!
Congrats ladies!!! Email me with your info and I'll send out your gifts right away! :)
brookiecookiesbows@yahoo.com
And, to all of you who didn't win this time, no worries...I'm sure you can tell how much I love to give these things away, so we'll do a V-day giveaway in February, fo sho! ;)
Thanks so much for all of your sweet comments and words of encouragement!!!
XOXO,
Liz
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Celebrating 200 Posts with a Vimeo...
Dear readers,
I woke up to an email today from my amazing and beautiful friend, T., who attends Builtmore Baptist Church....an awesome church that has an incredible outreach and ministry and welcomes those from all walks of life with open arms!
I was looking for something neat and exciting to celebrate my 200th post (woohoo! ;), and I think this is just perfect!
I am crying as I write this....what an incredible testimony to the fact that God has a plan for each and every one of us, and there is ALWAYS hope in Him!
Have a wonderful and blessed day!!!
XOXO,
Liz
I woke up to an email today from my amazing and beautiful friend, T., who attends Builtmore Baptist Church....an awesome church that has an incredible outreach and ministry and welcomes those from all walks of life with open arms!
I was looking for something neat and exciting to celebrate my 200th post (woohoo! ;), and I think this is just perfect!
I am crying as I write this....what an incredible testimony to the fact that God has a plan for each and every one of us, and there is ALWAYS hope in Him!
Have a wonderful and blessed day!!!
XOXO,
Liz
Saturday, January 09, 2010
Happy New Year--Time for Another Give-Away!
Okay, so I've been busy, busy, busy making these addictive little hair clips and bows....my house is suffering, my kids are sick of the bow habit...well, Connor is, at least, Brookie's like a kid in a candy store b/c my addiction now = her addiction and she has to change her bow at least three times a day! ;) I'm really excited because I've been conversing with a local clothing boutique about selling my accessories there, and we have a final meeting on Friday! Yay!
So, I've gotten a lot better at making these too...I'm learning which clips are best, which ribbon is best, how to heat-treat the ribbon to keep it from fraying, etc...I also just made my first donation to Compassion International with my proceeds, and am so excited that we are able to sponsor a child, and will receive info. about him or her in a week or two!!! I can't tell you how happy that makes me, and I hope my donation abilities are able to be greatly increased as my business grows!
So, in honor of my new found love for all things "ribbony" :), I'm having another GIVE-AWAY!!!! Yay!!!!! It makes me giddy to share these with friends, and one of my lucky bloggy friends will receive a pretty Trio set, a lot like this:
To enter, simply follow this blog if you don't already, and leave me a comment! One entry per comment!!!! We'll draw the winner on Friday, January 15th!!!!!!!!!!!
I wish I could ship all of my friends a Brookie Cookie's Bow, but I'm just not that bountiful, yet. :) However, I can give all of you a great deal....if you place an order on my Etsy site, simply leave a msg. with the order that says "These Are the Days" and you will receive a FREE clip or bow that compliments your order (I'll choose something really pretty ;)! No exclusions, or minimums to your order, either! And, if you spend $20 or more, you'll receive TWO free clips or bows!
Okay, enough promotion of this crazy new venture of mine....please, please forgive me! ;) I promise I'll only do one give-away a month from now on!!!!
XOXO!!! :)
So, I've gotten a lot better at making these too...I'm learning which clips are best, which ribbon is best, how to heat-treat the ribbon to keep it from fraying, etc...I also just made my first donation to Compassion International with my proceeds, and am so excited that we are able to sponsor a child, and will receive info. about him or her in a week or two!!! I can't tell you how happy that makes me, and I hope my donation abilities are able to be greatly increased as my business grows!
So, in honor of my new found love for all things "ribbony" :), I'm having another GIVE-AWAY!!!! Yay!!!!! It makes me giddy to share these with friends, and one of my lucky bloggy friends will receive a pretty Trio set, a lot like this:
To enter, simply follow this blog if you don't already, and leave me a comment! One entry per comment!!!! We'll draw the winner on Friday, January 15th!!!!!!!!!!!
I wish I could ship all of my friends a Brookie Cookie's Bow, but I'm just not that bountiful, yet. :) However, I can give all of you a great deal....if you place an order on my Etsy site, simply leave a msg. with the order that says "These Are the Days" and you will receive a FREE clip or bow that compliments your order (I'll choose something really pretty ;)! No exclusions, or minimums to your order, either! And, if you spend $20 or more, you'll receive TWO free clips or bows!
Okay, enough promotion of this crazy new venture of mine....please, please forgive me! ;) I promise I'll only do one give-away a month from now on!!!!
XOXO!!! :)
Thursday, January 07, 2010
Let it SNOW!!!
We are in the middle of a winter snow storm which has pounded us all day with gorgeous, powdery, sparkling, white snow. It's been glorious to sit sipping yummy wintery beverages (Guiness was my choice tonight) and marvel at the fact that we have nothing to do (well, sort of ;), and no place to be! Daddy brought snow inside and put it in the kid's water table while I worked upstairs on my bows (I'm addicted, by the way). I heard squeals of delight filtering up the stairs into my office, as they scooped and shoveled the snow!
After I scrambled to make dinner (time passes so quickly while I'm busy crafting) we took the kids out for a night-time snow adventure. Daddy shoveled the driveway and sidewalks, while the kids flopped in, ran on, swept up, and gobbled the snow! They had a ball, and it was so much fun. Connor remarked to me at one point that the snow was sparkling, and it WAS. So beautiful under the street lights. I didn't take pictures, because our escapade was quite impromptu, but it was breath-taking.
I did have a moment when I went chasing after Brookie as she ran down the drive way. Apparently I have no traction on my boots, and my feet flew out from under me and I landed (hard) on my hip and shoulder--taking Brookie down with me! Daddy thought it was quite hilarious as I grumbled about needing new boots, (that's next on my list tonight :). I'm gonna be feeling that one tomorrow, for sure! But other than that we had a brilliant day, and who knows, we might even take a snow day tomorrow, too!!!!
Happy Winter, everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
After I scrambled to make dinner (time passes so quickly while I'm busy crafting) we took the kids out for a night-time snow adventure. Daddy shoveled the driveway and sidewalks, while the kids flopped in, ran on, swept up, and gobbled the snow! They had a ball, and it was so much fun. Connor remarked to me at one point that the snow was sparkling, and it WAS. So beautiful under the street lights. I didn't take pictures, because our escapade was quite impromptu, but it was breath-taking.
I did have a moment when I went chasing after Brookie as she ran down the drive way. Apparently I have no traction on my boots, and my feet flew out from under me and I landed (hard) on my hip and shoulder--taking Brookie down with me! Daddy thought it was quite hilarious as I grumbled about needing new boots, (that's next on my list tonight :). I'm gonna be feeling that one tomorrow, for sure! But other than that we had a brilliant day, and who knows, we might even take a snow day tomorrow, too!!!!
Happy Winter, everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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