On A Whim

It's been a while old friend...

2011-04-06T04:22:00.000-07:00

Life has a way of keeping you busy enough to have nothing to say. Busy enough to miss out on the simpler things in life. Busy enough to forget to be thankful. Thankful of your blessings. In my case life was named Jett.

At least if it has to consume our every waking (and sleeping- or lack of) he's cute. He spent the first three and a half months with colic and now he is just "not content" or in my words, crabby all the time. I mean all the time. He never just sits and observes life. Nope, not Jett.

Unlike my other three kiddos who love everything about life. Jett isn't happy. Not on the way to the beach.

Not in the condo.

Not at the beach.

Unless you held him like this.

He turned six months while there and we got a brief smile...

before he started again and we threatened to leave him. *wink*

So even though my blog has laid dormant for the winter, it is spring and maybe he'll turn a new leaf. I'm not holding much hope but I can dream.

Happy Birthday Edie!

2011-01-04T13:20:00.000-08:00

It's your birthday and I didn't want to show up empty handed. I have a gift for you. I have thoroughly enjoyed this piece, the piece you didn't even put in your yard sale because you couldn't decide if you were ready to part with it. And I'm so glad you did. Because now I can give it back (when you're ready) and you'll have a piece of you in your new home.

Happy Birthday Edie. Love you.

3month picture

2010-12-28T08:39:00.001-08:00

3month picture, originally uploaded by kellylynam17.

If It's Free, It's For Me

2010-12-03T07:08:00.000-08:00

Every year we try to capture a great family photo for our Christmas card. It isn't always easy, especially with a new baby that is rarely happy. I usually check out all of the different sites to see who has the best deal and the most different creative cards available! This year Shutterfly it is! Have you seen these?

This card is a favorite and maybe a keeper...

I also love this one...except I really don't like to write...and we are really boring...

And this one, a real opening card...how impressive!

Now that I've explored all these items I'm so undecided. Thankfully I've made my Shutterfly photo albums all year long so I won't be behind.

I've also spent 2 days trying to decide on holiday baby announcements and realized that since he is 10 weeks old, most people have seen him and really who does those anymore? Well actually I do. And I haven't. Just sayin'.

I should do Thank You notes. I have like 20 thank yous to still do for meals and gifts. The list is on my kitchen cabinet. I haven't forgot. Really. I will send them.

Well I'm off to take some more pictures, surely I can get one decent one before Christmas! But if you want a really good deal check out this Free Deal from Shutterfly!

This could take some time...

Jett Is One Month

2010-10-21T12:41:00.000-07:00

Adjust Your Path

2010-10-10T08:30:00.000-07:00

Sometimes things happen in life that force you to adjust your path. It is not always a path you want to take or am comfortable taking but is necessary. And you have to leave it to God. This pregnancy started that way. Our life was good. The kids were old enough and independent enough to be easy. We had to adjust our path.

I've had all my kids at birth centers with midwives and no meds. I would never do it any other way. I'm the patient that refuses everything. Ultrasounds, testing, anything intrusive. They know me. I go home 4 hours later. I'm strange like that. Then policy changed at the birth center and I was made to have an ultrasound. We were sure it was a girl. We had to change our path. Then I tested positive for group b strep- and I had to have 4 hours leeway to get antibiotics before delivering. And I had to stay 12 hours after to monitor baby. Another veer.

Then I started itching. And itching. And itching. I felt like I had ants in me. I googled. I am so glad I did. I found the reason for my itching. And it made me reconsider my path.

ICP, otherwise known as Obstetric Cholestasis (OC), refers to a specific liver condition in which the normal flow of bile is impaired in a woman's body resulting in itching that can vary in severity and type. ICP is associated with an increased risk for infant stillbirth, premature labor, fetal distress, and hemorrhaging in both mother and child.

I called the midwife and explained the problem. This was unfamiliar territory for them. I went in immediately for the blood test. It would take a few days and that was not good for me. In all my research the only cure is immediately getting baby out. They were not apt to doing that with out the diagnosis. I understood their position but also was not comfortable with "spontaneous stillborn". I had already walked that path in this pregnancy with my best friend and it was hard. Very hard. I would not walk that path again.

Well the only compromise was constant fetal monitoring while we waited for the test. I was so upset. I had already been up 2 full nights itching and emotionally was drained. We left the office quite discouraged.

We made it half way home when I got this severe pain in my lower stomach. At first I thought he was laying funny so we pulled over so I could stand up. It did not change and now I was in so much pain I couldn't get back into the car. I knew this wasn't labor related so something was wrong. Our path took us to the local ER a few blocks away. They were stumped and felt like I needed to be transferred to a hospital that actually had labor and delivery because if it was appendix or gall bladder they needed to protect the baby. While I waited my children's pastor came to visit. I thought that was so nice.

So my path put me in an ambulance with 2 funny guys and still in severe pain. I arrived and spent several hours in triage with a nurse that was just as stumped. They decided to admit me, monitor the baby and give me pain meds to sleep. Another veer in my natural path. At this point I could only lay on my left side so I had to give in to the pain meds. While they continued to monitor the baby we tried to get some sleep. We would see the midwife in the morning. She started me on my group b strep antibiotics, just in case.

Come morning the pain was still horrible and I refused the pain meds because I wanted to be coherent when the midwife came. She came in at about 7 a.m. with the blood results. I had my diagnosis. A normal reading was 10, a diagnosis was 14 and mine was 28- well over the safe limit. Before they would induce they wanted to do an ultrasound and check all of my organs to try to pinpoint my pain. They wanted to rule out a surgical procedure before they induced. After the ultrasound they still had no reason to my pain.

They started the pitocin, veering again from my path, and broke my water. Now those that know me know that my other labors are hard and short- as in when my water breaks- I'm holding my baby 45 minutes later. So the thought was, break the water- deliver baby. HA! That works great when your body is ready to deliver a baby- not 2 weeks early.

It was a long hard day. They gave me pain meds for the stomach pain- but didn't touch the contraction pain. I was not helping the labor since I couldn't get up with the pain- and with meds I couldn't get up because it made me so drowsy. After many hours, they realized this was going nowhere and I insisted on the epidural- another veer in my path. Within 5 minutes I was out of pain, relaxed and calm. But making no progress. Eventually they had to call in the doctor, another veer, to come turn the pesty child who was posterior and was showing distress. The midwife and nurses were so calm but I could tell they did things with urgency.

He was delivered, cord around his neck and very blue.

It was a horrible day. Ultrasounds, shots, pain meds, pitocin, doctors, and uncertainty. But in the end, I had this perfect child that was safe from my body and I wasn't itching.

I've learned that when your body isn't ready to deliver a baby- it takes longer for them to adjust and your body to recover. I also started the process exhausted from 3 nights of no sleep and that turned into 5 nights of no sleep and that turned into an exhausted mom. But as I catch up on sleep I realize that although my path was different than I imagined, it was God's path. And I would do it no other way.

Nate, Ross, Jett and Kenzie

School Baby Shower

2010-07-14T10:55:00.000-07:00

Kelly and Brooke

October and July
Boy and Girl

These ladies are very talented with diapers!

It was a lovely night with great ladies! Thank you.

Happy Fourth Of July

2010-07-05T14:48:00.000-07:00

Reading a book while waiting for the fireworks.

Playing Phase 10 on the "4-lane", as the locals call it.

The only picture of me.

Still waiting.

Being goofy.

Some people slept.

Enjoying the lake.

The end of a perfect weekend.

Sweet Baby Shower

2010-06-30T06:33:00.000-07:00

Mommy and Kenzie Days

2010-06-27T13:58:00.000-07:00

Kenzie has been under the weather for a few days- (due to getting her face fried in the sun and yes I slathered in sun screen but it didn't work) and so while the boys went to the lake for some cliff jumping and summer fun we did some fun art and cooking!

We've also discovered the AWESOME food blog of Our Best Bites and tried some fun recipes.

They were delicious Cheesy Garlic Rolls!
And she also made a delicious chocolate cake.

Welcome Summer

2010-06-16T17:25:00.000-07:00

This past week while at VBS, someone had this great idea that maybe all my workers should help pick a name for this sweet bambino.

Wow is about all I can say. I tried to mention my criteria was it had to be a boy's name, be one syllable and be cool. Some missed that part.

As you can see, someone really was pushing Cade.

And thankfully, my personal favorites of Tater and Punky are being represented.

And don't forget Zeus. That was a crowd pleaser!

I received so many great names I'm thinking this child should be like all those famous people that get like 6 names. Can't you see it.

Cade Tater Possom Zeus Punky Spike------

It has a nice ring to it.

Memorial Weekend Camping Trip

2010-06-01T13:23:00.000-07:00

Normally I take lots of great pictures but this year I was so sick with these "brought-on-by-pregnancy" allergies that I was out of it! You can see some here and here are a few more.

Nate- Preparing To Fish

Ross- Cliff Jumping

Memorial Day Prayer

Group Shot

I'm Still Here

2010-05-27T11:23:00.000-07:00

It was a long couple of months while I was sick but we did manage to do some fun things.

We went to Florida and finally took the kiddos to Disney.

We much preferred the beach at Jekyll Island.

We helped and ran in our first Warathon race for our school track fundraiser. And Nate came in second, beat only by Tessa!

Ross and I went on a school field trip to Williamsburg.

We had our FIRST ultrasound EVER due to policy changes with our midwives. It was quite an experience! Look at that boy's hand!

Yup, we were surprised. You could have bet any of us it was a girl, as sick as I was and so we were all a little shocked. Kenzie flopped on the couch and refused to speak or watch the remainder of the ultrasound. She was so disappointed. Thankfully I think she has finally gotten past it.

I did do a few projects. My dad was throwing this out from an eviction- so I snagged it for the baby's dresser.

BEFORE

AFTER (minus knobs)

The great shutters were a find my mom picked up in Ohio for $20!

This next find was at Edie's yard sale. You may recognize it from some of her posts! It was a great $25 buy my hubby said I couldn't pass up and even though I waited almost a month for him to pick it up I'm so glad we did! It matches my dining room chairs exactly! I picked up the fork and spoon at her sale also- I've had my eyes on them for a while!

We've managed to start the summer out great with swimming...

boating and fishing...

and Dollywood.

And this weekend we are camping- a favorite family/friend pastime. It's going to be a great summer now that I feel better!

Now if we can only come up with a name for this child....it has to be one syllable and match the other boy's cool names. *wink* Any suggestions? Ross, Nate, Kenzie and ......?

It's good to be back.

I'm Having A Good Day

2010-03-03T12:06:00.000-08:00

These days my life is characterized by how I feel. On the days where I've felt horrible, I am in a fog. I have forgotten to show up at school to serve lunch. I've forgotten to write important things on the calendar.

I've lost paperwork. I missed more of the Olympics than I have in all of my life because I can't keep my eyes open. But if I consume huge amounts of this I can survive.

And I've watched a lot of Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy.

Now I think I really could have a shot at Wheel of Fortune but that Jeopardy is for the birds. I usually change it to Entertainment Tonight because, well, I understand what the heck they're talking about.

Well yesterday I had a relatively good day. School went well. I never got sick. I only chewed 10 pieces of gum and took 12 pills. Honest. I came home, early because of "snow", and did all the laundry. And I made dinner. Now that is huge.

Then, mom needed some blog help, and I answered all her questions. Go Team.

Then I turned on my token Jeopardy- since my blog helping made me miss Wheel of Fortune. And I got 15 answers correct. Now to some that is not a big deal but people I'm not that smart. I have common sense. I don't recall learning about the Czars of Madagascar's eating rituals or famous lines from powerful Norwegian Vikings. I can cook you dinner, sew a dress and give good directions. I even can answer some HTML coding questions but forget the Norwegians. So to answer 15 questions right and before they answered was shocking to say the least. Nate was jumping up and down saying "Go Mom!" Ross rushed in to see what the hype was about and witnessed some of my smarts.

And before you ask what ails me. It's that kind of sickness that will be better in 9 months. And I'm a whopping 9 weeks down.

It was a good day. And I needed to relish in it.

Themeless

2010-02-26T10:44:00.000-08:00

I'm joining a blog party over at Blessed Moon of random photography. Although I won't ever have as good a shot at Patty has- I can dream! *wink*

Surprised Again

2010-01-30T18:18:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I look at my kids and am amazed at what they can do.

They are so full of life and adventure that I don't recall having. I am very cautious. I don't try things that could involve me getting hurt. I am often reminded of the fact that I was scared to death of slides and had to be rescued many times. But I am also not the kind to stop my children from trying things. Today was one of those days. Although it was not anything scary or daring it was new. And they succeeded brilliantly.

We were blessed with snow today. A lot of snow for our area. The most my kids have seen. We went sledding. Normally they are happy just playing in the yard but today I decided I was taking them to sled. We own 8 sleds. We need to use them before they rot. After calling some friends we got an invite to sled a local favorite spot. It was a private residence but you'd think it was the local sled riding hill. They should charge a fee. It was a blast. And cold. The kids flew down hills,

and laughed,

And encouraged their mom, to be brave, or not to be wimpy.

And they tried something new.

And did it really well.

And had fun doing it.

The littlest lasted over 3 hours out there.

She rode the big hills with the big kids. And loved it.

and they never moaned, even though they walked that hill a hundred times.

It was a great day. Just ask the kids.

A Tie? Really People?

2010-01-23T17:55:00.000-08:00

I am creative. Or at least I'm more creative then most. This is a genetic thing that I got from my mom. I enjoy being creative. Until I read blogs. I love blogs. They are what inspires me to create. Until they out think me. I hate that. I want to be able to do that. Take my new favorite blog. Ruffles and Stuff. She is awesome. She "shops" Polyvore and then goes to Goodwill and after buying the strangest item- transforms it into fabulous. She also dresses like I want to. Very vintage chic. Very out of the box. Very out of my comfort zone. And she doesn't care what you think. Unfortunately I do. But I don't want to care so I created out of my comfort zone. I made a scarf. I know. Ooooo aren't I brave. But it was a different scarf. I thought it was super cool. I made three. Here is a picture. Of the original. The inspiration piece. Ruffles and Stuff's scarf. Now isn't that classy.

One of my scarves was made out of the dress my mom wore at my wedding. Let me explain. After my wedding, they sold our family home. They moved in with us for a month while my dad renovated their house to livable condition. Well, she washed her dress and hung it in the laundry room over the washer to dry. Well we had this darling little boxer puppy that was extremely lively and while locked in the laundry room sort of chewed it up. Yes. I about died. I drove to every store in the town until I found the matching dress to replace it. And saved it. Cause I may have needed a scarf someday out of floral lace.

So mine looks just like the original except army green in color. So my mom wears the cool lace one and it looks fabulous and people say so. I wear my green one. Oh. My. Goodness. I don't think I heard so many comments ever! And they were not encouraging. At least 3 people asked if I made my scarf. And that was all they said. "Did you make that?" And they walked away. I was sure they didn't want one made for them. Then I had one person say, "So what's the story with that tie you're wearing?" I was horrified and slightly embarrassed. Tie? Really people? It is winter- you should at least assume that an excess of fabric around your neck is a scarf. Duh.

So the next day I wore my other one. It was white with cool black designs on it. I dyed it orange. It is my favorite. So we are in JoAnn Fabrics and the cashier says, "Cool scarf, did you make it?" This is where I say, "As a matter of fact I did." And she says, "How long did it take?" And I say, "Oh just a few minutes." And she says, are you ready for this? "Oh you must have used a sewing machine." Really? I mean she works at JOANN FABRICS. We laughed at her. To her face. Mean, I know. But she totally asked for it.

I've made one other item Ruffles & Stuff suggested. They are the greatest cuff and collar set just like the ones worn by the Chanel models in their winter line. Yes, Chanel. As in Coco Chanel. I. Love. Them.

Here are mine.

Aren't they great? So what do you think, should I risk the comments and wear them? I may have to think about it. And yes I did use a sewing machine. Just saying.

Mini-Hallway Reveal

2010-01-09T18:48:00.000-08:00

Do you remember my sewing room reveal a little while back? Well, it seems that in the winter that room is as cold as it is outside. I knew this but I thought with a cute little heater I could still enjoy this room. I was wrong. I am freezing my batootie off. And not feeling very creative. Actually I can't feel my feet. So, I needed a new plan. Introducing my new sewing "corner". Literally. A corner. And I share it with the dog.

This is the hallway between the pantry hallway and the new "create" room. It is a cute little desk area that just collected piles of stuff. Now it can't. Now I can create. And be warm. It has this cute little desk made out of an old cabinet door mom rescued. It used to be here. She is clever.

I managed to hem 3 pairs of pants today. That is what I call productive.

"Create" Room Half Reveal

2010-01-02T13:06:00.000-08:00

I would love to say the room is done but money hasn't allowed me to purchase all of the storage solutions I want to make it perfect. And I have a table treatment that I don't have done yet so we'll skip those items.

While at Goodwill this past week I found 2 sets of lined curtains that worked great for our French doors. Mom happened to have the Ikea wire system to hang it.

I cleaned out all of the craft bins and made way for a display shelf over top for all of the fabulous artwork.

I will eventually buy enough of the black boxes to do all the upper shelves.

I was excited to use this cool wood box for all our stamp stuff. I've learned that if they can see them they will use them. No sense in having all these great products to store in a cabinet.

We used stickers to label our boxes.

I also cleaned out the table spinners. I had to make room for all of their new Sharpies.

I feel good about the progress even if the table is not done and I need more boxes. But hey I can relax and have a nice glass of water. Or atleast a sip as I move on to the next room.

2009-12-30T11:05:00.000-08:00

Crafting Happens

You know what happens when you organize the craft stuff and set up a new art table? Crafting happens. Here are Nate's Mario Cart creations. (Keep in mind these are made out of clay and the people are about 1- 2 inches tall). Impressive!

Luigi

Koopa

Toad

Fake Item Box (I hate these car flipper boxes)

Banana (Another car annoying item)

Mario (who's having trouble standing)

Give me another day or so and I'll do a real reveal of the new and improved "Create" room.

2009-12-28T09:25:00.000-08:00

HELP!!!!

I'm overwhelmed and can't get out.

We did manage to box up 671 books to donate to the school.

2009-12-27T18:05:00.000-08:00

Favorite Christmas Shot and The Start of the Room Clean-out

Here we all are putting together the Christmas puzzles. The one the adults are working on is of Michael and me on Santa's lap in 1983 and the other one is a past Christmas card picture of Ryan. Memories. To see more Christmas pictures, visit Mom.

So I've started the room clean-out. And it is so much work. We started by going through all the books on the red bookcase. These would include biographies, science, American history, World history and art books. Here is the to go pile! It looks like a lot more on the floor than on the shelves.

I love how my kids are so interested in the books leaving the house. Here are the red shelves filled with what is staying. I even cleaned all the craft bins out and goo-goned all the lovely stickers my children seem to stick everywhere. I love the neatness of it. I am going to make cute little labels for each one.

Now what to do with all the stuff on the table and the other 2 shelves.

I'll keep you posted.

2009-12-21T07:24:00.000-08:00

TwO wEeKs OfF-- YiPpIe!

I am so excited to have two weeks off. Two weeks to do what I want in my house. And I've decided to clean out the schoolroom. When we homeschooled my mom built a book collection that shames the local library. It was wonderful to just go to the shelf marked "science" when studying butterflies or "biographies" when studying Marie Curie. It served a great purpose for many years. Now the kids go to a local Classical Christian School that my mom has been at since the day the doors opened. They are now in their 4th year and are building their library. We've decided there is no sense in me dusting books we rarely use when there are 120 kids that could be enjoying them daily! Now don't get me wrong- I will be keeping quite a few of our favorites, like our Five In A Row books.

What are those weird colored stickers you ask? That is how they are categorized. All red stickers means it is a Five In A Row book and all yellow stickers are science and so one. It helps the kids put them away properly!

This brings me back to the room. It is a strange set room. There are 8 doorways and a woodstove. It is the room that takes you to the bedrooms, livingroom, kitchen, bathroom and front door so I can't block any traffic patterns. And yes that is a water fountain. You were going to ask. Remember it was a school. Hence the drop ceilings. This is the only room downstairs that the ceiling has not been redone yet. It is so much work and we can only do one at a time and right now we are doing this one.

It is probably 18 x 18 and has a table and chairs in the middle. It has a cool fireplace that was talked about here and mentioned by the Nester.

I'd love to have it a full fledged craft room- as you can see it has the makings or should I say messyness of one. I'd love for it to look like this

So what should I do with this weird room? Any suggestions? Do tell.

2009-12-19T17:30:00.001-08:00

Only 6 More Days Until Christmas

2009-12-13T19:38:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Our Home For Christmas

2009-11-28T18:17:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Travels

Several years ago we went to Connecticut for Thanksgiving. While there we went to NYC and mom fell off a curb and broke her foot in a horrible way. She still hasn't recovered. And two years ago we went to Connecticut for Thanksgiving and while going to IKEA we were rear ended by a tow truck. I'm not sure any of us is over that. Over the summer we went to D.C. and on the way home the transmission blew.

Some people would say, don't go north. And they did. But Travis loves me and wanted to take me to Maine to visit my bestest friend in the whole wide world, even if our luck was not so hot. We took all the necessary precautions. Well let's just say we really need to stop going north. We had a late start (6:20am) because we were up half the night with Kenzie coughing and neither of us could get up at 4:45am to leave at 5am. At 8am we heard a large clunk and well that was that. We pulled over. Thankfully we were point three of a mile from the local Ford dealer and being 8:04am, they were open. After 3 1/2 hours they told us that even though they know there is a problem (because they heard it) their diagnostics machine can't pinpoint it. Sorry. Enjoy your trip. Oh and I wouldn't take that car to Maine. Thanks.

We rented a car. We went from a mini van, packed (you know what that means) to a Vibe. Have you seen a Vibe? They are half the size of a van. Half.

It had XM radio. And really good gas mileage. That is it. They have no floor space.

We made it to Connecticut at 11:35pm. We were exhausted. Grandma's dog barked half the night. Dumb dog.

We woke up not so refreshed but was excited to get to Maine. It was just 3 and 1/2 away and we felt great! (Can you feel the dripping sarcasm?)

I am so glad we went! We enjoyed a relaxed, Thanksgiving dinner.

The next morning Kristy and I enjoyed a day-after-Thanksgiving shopping spree. Without the money. The weather was awful. But it didn't stop us from a trip to the Christmas Tree Shop. And Target. And Old Navy. And well a bunch of stores. Kristy managed to finish all her Christmas shopping.

We left the guys home with all 7 kids and a list.

Saturday brought more fun. Bailey is a Make a Wish child and they had set up a time for her family to spend some time with the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Santa. They took a group photo of the Make a Wish kids, wrote their letters to Santa, mailed them, had milk and cookies, their face's painted, balloon animals, made crafts, got Santa hats and Mickey Mouse Ears and of course their picture with Santa. He also read them "Twas The Night Before Christmas." It was a great time! The best ever, according to Nate.

This is Kenzie with her new friend Scott, from Boston. He is an incredible artist that had very interesting tatoos that he designed and he does charactacures at Faneuil Hall in Boston. I know, way too much information but we were there a long time. He advised me to never ruin my skin with a tattoo. Interesting.

This is my favorite photo. Kenzie is telling him about her "wiggly" tooth.

I am now in the Christmas spirit. And I am thankful for my healthy kiddos. It was so sad to see all the Make a Wish kids, who earned their spot by having a terminal disease. And yet they were so excited about their opportunity. If you get a chance, go to Macy's and mail your Santa letters. They will donate $1 for every letter "mailed". And say a prayer for those parents. They need it. Let the festivities begin!

2009-11-21T08:34:00.000-08:00

Weekend Accomplishments

Sometimes I have weekends that I accomplish a lot of fun things! Last weekend was one of them. I picked up this ugly miniture hoosier cabinet at Goodwill for $2.50 a couple of weeks ago and finally got a vision!

She needed a matching fun chair, so after a quick seat redo.

Next I needed a few Christmas garlands to spruce up the place. And some curtains.

The sewing room also need some words of inspiration.

And Kenzie needed a fun Thanksgiving outfit, one that she can twirl in, while watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

And Aunt Marie needed a Roman shade in her kitchen so I squeezed in a sewing lesson. Mom is so proud!

She also needed a garland.

So what have you worked on? Go check out Funky Junk for more fun ideas! Wait until you see this weekend's project!

2009-11-10T18:16:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week my mom bought me a piece of jewelry. It made me think of the jewelry I have. Jewelry tends to have a story. Who gave it, when, why, etc. I thought I'd take a stroll down memory lane.

My grandmother gave this to me for my high school graduation. It was her engagement ring from her second husband. He took me to the zoo. And read me Sammy the Seal. He was short lived in our family but a memory all the same.

This is my charm bracelet. It holds charms that my mom collected for me all through childhood. Each of the charms holds a story that I can remember. Like the heart was given to me when I was the flower girl at my Uncle's wedding.

This "pearl" necklace was given to me by my grandmother this past year. It was given to her by my dad for Mother's day when he was 17.

This locket was given to me by my mom. It holds a picture of my hubby and me in costume as Anne and Gilbert from my favorite book "Anne of Green Gables". We played those parts in a play our senior year. What memories.

This is the POW bracelet that my mom wore as a teenager to remember Captain Fielding Featherstone.

This is my brother's necklace. He gave this to Kenzie the day he left for Army boot camp. He graduates in four weeks. We are very proud of him.

And my new piece. Not sure of the stories it will hold for my daughter but I'm sure many will be made while wearing it, that is if I can get over the overwhelming decisions of what color to wear.

So what story does your jewelry tell? Tomorrow is Veteren's Day, remember to say thank you.

2009-11-08T11:18:00.000-08:00

Funky Junk is having her famous Saturday party. And I'm fashionably late. Actually this is the first time I've come. The theme is "Anything Goes" or "Window Treatments". Goodness knows I love window treatments so I thought I'd feature 3 of my favorites!

I've decided to start decorating slowly for Christmas since I am so busy this year. Yesterday I cleaned all the kitchen surfaces and hung my window display. It is so fun that it usually is the last thing to come down.Don't mind the ridiculous hole in the ceiling- not exactly sure what to do with it. Any ideas? At one time it was probably a light fixture but there is no power to it now.

Here are my dining room Roman shades that I made out of shower curtains.

These are my bedroom curtains. They were $4 tablecloths from Wal-mart and the Roman shades were $12 from Ross. You can't beat $20 window treatments for a huge 9 foot window.

These are Kenzie's room's curtains.

Have fun checking out the other fun treatments or whims that people have come up with!

2009-11-01T12:01:00.000-08:00

Today, Edie, over at Life In Grace, is starting the 12 days of handmade Christmas and I am so excited! Not only will I get 12 great gifts to make and give but one of the days will feature my mom over at Living Life Creatively! I am super excited for her to share her talents! See you there.

On a side note, here is Kenzie's class performing at chapel this week.

2009-10-13T09:50:00.000-07:00

Camping Adventures

This weekend was a long weekend. We went camping. It was an adventure. Let me start by saying this was our first time really camping. I mean we camp every Memorial and Labor day weekends with a group of friends, on our church lake property, but we have a building where we cook, play games, and take showers and there are a lot of us, so someone is bound to have what you forgot. And we are like 15 minutes from home. And it never rains.

This was our first time camping at a campground, by ourselves, too far from home to go get something. And we paid for it. We packed everything up on Friday and left as soon as Travis got home from work at 4pm. Note to self, you do not go through Pigeon Forge that late on a Friday night. It should have taken us about an hour and maybe 15 minutes to get to the campground.

It took 3 hours. And the entire time was spent on a 15 mile stretch. Pain in the neck tourists.

Do you know what time that puts us at? 7 p.m.

Do you know what time it gets dark? 7:25 p.m.

Do you know when the rain started? 7:20 p.m.

Fantastic.

We, new owners of a pop-up we've only put up 3 times, had to hustle big time to get the camper level and up. We keep saying we need to make a laminated card to remind us what to do next but I'm only ever reminded of it when we need it. Bummer.

We finally got it up and we go to plug it in so we could see and wouldn't you know the plug size was different than what we have. Terrific. Now we not only get to camp in the rain, but in the dark too. Thankfully when the campground owner came back from dinner he had the adapter and could bless us with lights. On to the sink hook-up and well, it leaked. All. Over. The. Floor. Splendid.

But we were having fun. Really. Who cares if it is raining, dark and we are all crammed in 5 feet of space. We had Yahtzee. And popcorn. We were good. Or at least that is what the kids thought.

It proceeded to rain, thunder and lightning all night. This is where you're expecting me to say the roof leaked. Nope. Sorry to disappoint.

The next morning was sure to be better. We were able to get a better sense of our surroundings now that there was light. It was still raining and it was muddy as could be, but the kids didn't seem to care. They enjoyed the crazy wildlife.

We had a great breakfast of pancakes and decided to go to find something to do. We packed a lunch and went to Cade's Cove. If you've never been it is worth the trip.

We enjoyed the wildlife...

the views...the hiking in the mud...

and the riding in the back of the truck looking for bears, ...

until the park ranger told us it was up to a $500 fine for riding there. We promptly climbed in the cab.

After we went back to the campground we discovered that it is impossible to start a fire when your wood is wet. The neighbor gave us dry wood and we still struggled with that dumb fire. We had tacos. I had made them at home. Lame.

We took a walk to the river behind the campground. It was beautiful and a perfect picture spot.

The kids rode their bikes...
and I lusted after the neighbor's trailer.

Made me want to watch "The Long, Long Trailer" with Lucy and Desi. And collect rocks.

We ended the night really roughing it, watching the Florida vs. LSU game on the laptop.

We spent the next day hiking on various trails and hanging out at the campground since that is what the kids wanted.

We spent the last night with a great fire (finally), ice cream cones,

and more Yahtzee.

2009-09-29T11:28:00.000-07:00

Things I've Learned This Week
-dedicated to Emily

1. I have no time for blogging.

Tuesday is a crazy day for me. It is one of the two days of the week that I teach art to 103 kindergarten through eighth graders. It is a lot of fun! I've learned that kids can do anything if instructed in a way that they can handle. But I've also learned that because all of my creative juices are going to art projects I'm left with little to blog with. I don't have time to find a great armoir to repaint or new fabric to sew or yarn to crochet. And you know what, that's not fair. Because that is what I love.

2. I'm amazed at what my kids have learned in just 7 weeks of school. These videos are from the 4th week of school.

3. I need a desk at school.

We may want to eat at our dining room table sometime in the next year.

4. No matter how many times you tell me the Baxters aren't real, I will disagree.

I have one book left to read in the Karen Kingsbury Baxter Family books and I'm dreading the end. I mean I want to meet Dayne and Katy's kids and I want to see Cody and Bailey get married. I want to see CKT established. Who's with me? I attended a simulcast of Karen Kingsbury this weekend and just loved it! Tell me they're real. I'm going to have a Baxter family reunion. Who's coming?

2009-09-11T05:38:00.000-07:00

Where were you 8 years ago today?

Praying.

2009-08-21T16:58:00.000-07:00

Our Trip To Wonderworks

Earthquake Ride

Rock Climbing Wall

Ross had a huge lead....

but only Nate made it to the top!

Kenzie just had to lay on the bed of nails.

2009-07-28T16:42:00.000-07:00

Roman Shades and Orchids

This week my dear hubby brought home these beautiful orchids. They were being thrown away at work after a wedding and he thought I'd enjoy them. And he was right- they have become my favorite vase flower ever! Too bad they were $100 and I'll never see another bouquet of them but I will enjoy them while they last.

And secondly I finished Kenzie's roman shades. They are such easy curtains I don't know why I don't have them up in every window! Next up the french doors in the school room and the windows in the mud room.

I even made a matching sham although I did not enjoy sewing on the fringe balls!

2009-07-28T11:56:00.001-07:00

Tuesday's Random Summer Photography

2009-07-26T10:40:00.000-07:00

End of Summer

The end of summer is fast approaching and with it comes the push to finish as many projects as possible in a short amount of time. I picked up a few new projects this week that I am so excited to get to. The first is curtains in Kenzie's room. She has darling curtains now but they are lace panels and now that her bed is at window height we realize that the sun shines right in her face.

So roman shades are in order! I love making roman shades. They are so easy but yet look so impressive. My mom and I went to this fabric barn place that you literally root through piles of fabric on shelves in a barn full of spider webs! The family makes pillows for Neiman Marcus and sells the remainder of the fabric on the bolts. Here is what I bought for $4 a yard! Yep- you read that right! Upholstry fabric for $4 a yard! The Nester would be proud.

I was also hired as the art teacher at our local classical Christian school and I need to finish my art project lesson plans for the school year. So I'm *having* to make samples. Bummer! *wink* In between the kid's art I had to do one for myself- I know not real impressive but I saw this at TJ Maxx and loved it- so I fixed the recipe a bit, theirs had no sugar- horrors.

And I'm looking forward to making more summer recipes like ditalini salad and barbecue sandwiches.

We are also going camping this weekend in our new to us pop-up camper. We plan to enjoy a local state park that we have not taken the time to explore.

So that is how I plan to spend the next 2 weeks before school starts on the 11th! What about you? What do you still want to do?

2009-07-21T07:27:00.001-07:00

Tuesday's Random Summer Photography

Do you have random photography? I'm joining Renee in her quest for random photography, will you?

2009-07-19T17:19:00.001-07:00

Some Of My Favorite Things
(this month anyhow)

Phase 10 with friends and losing.

Swimming at the lake with friends.

Daddys who change their minds about cats.

Finding new places to take the family.

Sand in my shoes.

Boys who aren't afraid to fly through the air on a 700 foot zipline.

Building sandcastles

Van Gogh Art prints that I get on clearance for $15.00.

What are your favorite things? Check out some of Edie's favorite things.

2009-07-13T14:24:00.001-07:00

Tuesday's Random Summer Photography

Swinging 2, originally uploaded by kellylynam17.

2009-07-12T12:11:00.000-07:00

I love a deal. Actually I love my finds to be free. Our family motto is "If it's free, it's for me" and it works! I'm here to show you what it cost to put together a room that we love. And it just so happens the Nester is wondering what people spend on their favorite spaces. So I thought I'd price my living room.

Rattan Chair- Ross- $98
Lamp- TJ Maxx- $22
End Table- Mom Hand-Me-Down

Hoosier Cabinet- Mom Hand-Me-Down
Desk Chair- Mom Hand-Me-Down
Computer- Brother Hand-Me-Down

Star- Big Lots- $12.99
TV Cabinet- Brother Built
Shell Lamp- TJ Maxx- $20
Coffee Table and End Table- Mom Hand-Me-Down
Rug- Local Store- $50
Kid's Rocking Chair- Thrift Store- $5

Couch- IKEA- $300

Armoir- Friend Hand-Me-Down- Free
(was a dresser and short armoir that I stacked)

Piano- Mom Hand-Me-Down- Free
Lamps- Dad Hand-Me-Down- Free

Art work- drawn by my 7 year old- matted & framed for $12

So it seems that we have done an entire room for $520. Funny is as I worked my way through our house 90% of our items were given to us making our whole house worth like nothing. Interesting. I love our house. So what did you spend on your living room? And don't forget to click on the link at the top to see more priced spaces.

2009-07-06T09:42:00.000-07:00

Kenzie's Big Girl Bed

Kenzie is 5. She is going to kindergarten. She rides a bike. She loves to draw. And she is still in a toddler bed. Yes that's right, toddler bed. She has a tiny room. 7'6" by 7'8" to be exact. Little. The toddler bed was the perfect size. It was cute. She could touch the foot board. That is terrible. So this week daddy made her a big girl bed.

2009-06-29T12:31:00.000-07:00

Deck Decorating

We have a huge deck. Huge I say. There is nothing on it except a Little Tykes play gym which needs to go. Oh and one potted coleus. It needed help. It needed furniture. It needed an overhaul. Here is my story. *wink*

I found this table in my dad's warehouse. Another one of those finds he pulled out of an apartment. It was perfect. Almost. It just needed some color.

This seemed like a good choice.

I primed it and painted 3 coats and then went to the lake. It needed to dry after all. It was a nice afternoon. The kids wanted to get in the water. Really.

Oh sorry about that. Back to the deck. I found these great chairs at Big Lots for $10 a piece and place mats for $1. I found the dishes at the Dollar Tree. Yup $1 each. I filled a few planters with flowers and still need to get some more. And everyone needs a jar of water balloons.

My dad got this tent on clearance last year and it was too big for the space he wanted it for. So sad. *wink* It works great for our deck!

Now the lone coleus is not so lonely.

I love my little $1.49 stone bird from The Christmas Tree Shop in Pennsylvania.

I finally got to hang my wind chimes.

I still would like a bench on one side of the table but that will have to wait until I find the perfect piece or my dad pulls one out of an apartment. I can't wait to enjoy my calzones tonight on the new deck and watching the kiddos play four-square. I love summer.

2009-06-22T11:57:00.001-07:00

I've Been Flashed
(by the camera that is)

The double date of Tim and Emily and Travis and Kelly.

The kiddos were left with mom and we drove away quick before she could change her mind.

Emily called her mom for advice on what Tim should order. Chang's Spicy Chicken seemed like a good choice.

Here we passed the entrance so I could get a picture. That's our story and we're sticking to it.

We enjoyed ourselves.

Emily, maybe a little too much. The boys, embarrassed went inside.

Even though she picked out Tim's choice he still felt the need to read the menu.

Emily seemed to think our pager was broken and told the hostess so. It wasn't. We were seated.

Love him.

Warming herself by the fire, I mean candle.

Our waiter, Sean, or Gaston as Emily named him since he so resembled Gaston in Beauty and the Beast. Once we racked our brains for Gaston's theme song we proceeded to sing, "No one's slick as Gaston, No one's quick as Gaston, No one's necks as incredibly thick as Gaston...". He's heard it before. We were not sure he should consider it a compliment seeing that Gaston was so full of himself. We had nothing to drink. Honest. He told us funny things. Things that should not be told to you by your waiter.

P.F.Chang's special sauces.
Gaston was messy. And I couldn't focus. The camera I mean.

The loverly couples.

We ordered Lettuce Wraps for our appetizer. They were delicious!

Tim could not stand a messy table and so he nicely stacked everything for Gaston. What a big helper.Emily and I ordered Double Pan Fried Noodles with chicken to share. It was interesting. I liked Tim's spicy chicken. I didn't like Mongolian Beef. Way to chewy. And they have cloth napkins. I had to swallow.

I handed over the camera once. I wish I didn't.

Emily is sad.

Tim is trying to explain.

We ended with our fortunes.

"The one you love is closer than you think." (scary)

"Some like it hot." (wink)

"Love is like war; easy to begin but hard to stop." (interesting)

"A great man never ignores the simplicity of a child." (whatever)

Maybe we should stick to the lucky numbers?

Walking off dinner at the used book store. We love that place!

Aren't you supposed to be walking?

Thanks guys for inviting us. We had a blast!
Here's a song to you.

No one's slick like you guys,
No one's quick like you guys,
No one has those great laughs and sweet jokes like you guys.
For there's no one in church half as funny
Perfect, a pure paragon.
You can ask any Tom, Dick or Stanley
And they'll tell you whose team they prefer to be on.
Team Bray! Hoorah!

2009-06-08T10:34:00.000-07:00

Sewing Room Redo

I've been waiting to redo my sewing area until after VBS was over. I couldn't start a project with it looming over me. Now that it is over I went right to work on the room. It is a tiny room. It is actually the mudroom. I love it. It has great windows and a door to the kitchen that can be shut to hide my current mess. The kids use this door to go outside to play. Here are the before pictures.

And here are the after pictures. I painted it the same color as the kitchen and removed the mini-blinds. It is so bright now. I need to find some matching storage containers so I can get rid of that ugly primary colored drawer set! But it's only been 3 days since VBS ended so cut me some slack.

I spray painted the electrical box door with chalkboard paint so I can keep notes on my projects. This room has to store the freezer and the 5- 5 gallon buckets of wheat so that took up some of my space. But at least my fabric is off the floor. I have one more shelf to hang and I should be all set.I've decided not to cover the windows since I love the light. The kids finally have a place for their 10o pairs of flip flops that seem to be everywhere.

The door to the kitchen. It has a romen shade on the inside so I can just shut it and voila- gone.

I can see all of my fabric!I guess now I have to get to untangling all of this ribbon and fringe.

2009-05-28T14:14:00.000-07:00

This is a post I wrote a while back but I had to resurrect for Nester's Lamp Party.

This week I was determined to come up with a cheap chandelier for Kenzie's room. I wanted something pretty but funky. I found this hanging planter at Hobby Lobby for $11--so I cut an extension cord and wired it to the ceiling- then plugged in pink and white Christmas lights that I happen to have. It cost me $16 total! Yippee! Now that is cool.

2009-05-25T16:15:00.000-07:00

Swimming Lessons

with Coach Kathy

Kenzie and Anna

2009-05-11T15:23:00.000-07:00

Haphazardly- Not The Best Plan Of Defense

I realize that this month is so busy that I have to do things at record speed. I read my few favorite blogs in a more skimming way, I scan emails for ones that are VBS or school related, and I spring clean haphazardly. I decided that spring cleaning really needs to be thought about. I thought I'd wash my bedroom curtains for the first time in 2 years since there seemed to be an inch of dust on them. Well since they are tablecloths I didn't think much into the washing machine setting I just washed them. Not my brightest moment. I threw them in the dryer for a few minutes just to remove the initial heavyness and then laid them out to dry. Travis so nicely hung them up for me and they were a foot shorter. That's right. My beautiful, couldn't match better, $6 deal that I worshiped, shrunk a foot! I wanted to cry- I might have. Travis couldn't stop laughing. He almost was headless. What fabric shrinks a foot? Inches yes, but a foot? Here are the before and after pictures.

Before- Beautiful

After- Not So Much

Cry with me people. I know. What the heck am I going to do? Suggestions? I do have another curtain that is shorter on purpose that I might could cut off the striped trim and attach to the bottom or top but I'll always know how beautiful they were. The moral of the story is never dry curtains- just lug the heavy things to the clothes line. If it ever stops raining that is. It is totally the weather man's fault.

2009-04-30T18:38:00.000-07:00

Remodeling Round-up

Remodeling Guy

You are probably sick of my remodeling pictures but when you put as much work as we have into this house you are very proud of it! For those of you that are new to my blog- let me bore you. We sold our house in the country and we worked really hard to renovate my parent's house into a two family home. They lived in this great old house that used to be a school.

We took over the back of the house and the right wing. They kept the front and upstairs (minus the right wing). The problem was the right wing was one massive room that needed made into bedrooms. Now if you read some of the story of the house you know that we had already done massive amounts of work on this house. But we were up to the challenge. My vision was to get 2 bedrooms, a bathroom, a walk in closet and a hall with laundry room out of this room. I think we did pretty well.

Entrance To Bedrooms

The Original Bathroom

My awesome tile job- yes that's right I did it myself and I'm very prideful.

We have these massively tall windows with beautiful, but pain in the neck, arches.

The boy's room have these great bookshelves.

You can check out this post and this post to see other parts of the house. Now go enjoy some more at the Remodeling Guy.

2009-04-27T06:19:00.000-07:00

Because Painted Is Pretty

Edie over at Life In Grac e is having a painting party and I love parties. Especially ones at Edie's house, she's a great cook! Even though my current paint redo is not as impressive as hers it is still exciting! This is what my painter husband has been painting for my birthday! Yes I know, it is just trim. But it was a great gift!

I know it is dark- just too much sunshine streaming in- but there are windows under there.
This is the last project I painted- and thank heavens I decluttered.

And this is the item I'd love to paint but I'm scared- I mean it's a piano. Do you paint pianos?
Don't forget to check out Life In Grace.

2009-04-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

Enjoying the Simple Things
Making Mushrooms

Check out other simple things at Chatting at the Sky.

2009-04-21T14:54:00.000-07:00

Happy 5th Birthday Kenzie

Garden Tea Party

Invite Friends

This past weekend we had Kenzie's 5th birthday party. I can hardly believe she'll start kindergarten this year. Where has the time gone. We had our garden tea party outside on the first nice day of the year. The girls came in their party dresses.

Don't you love the mushroom plates.

Abby, Tessa, Ashley Anna, Emma, Haleigh Raye, Abigail, Anna and Kenzie

The girls filled bird feeders.

Then they potted plants in their buckets.

Tessa handed out flowers.

They filled them with dirt.

And voila, beautiful potted plants.

They ended the garden party like ladies, jumping on the trampoline in their party dresses.
The best part, my mom so nicely printed all the girl's photos with Kenzie and attached them to these darling little friend cards and they each left with their thank you card! That's right- thank you cards!

Happy Birthday Sweet Baby Girl

2009-04-19T10:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter (better late than never)

We had an enjoyable (ahum-- that was me clearing my throat) time dying eggs, Martha Stewert style. Actually I think she left out an important step in the directions to ensure that no one in the world can make beautiful marbleized eggs. That would be just like her. Monopolizing the egg dying technic. Anyhoo our eggs did not turn out like hers but the kids had fun doing it and they do look cool. Notice how sunny it is in the beginning shots and how dark it is when we were cleaning up.

That's what Nate thinks of the vinegar smell.

2009-04-07T14:19:00.000-07:00

I ♥ Faces is having a contest. The theme is "My Friend and I" and I thought this photo was perfect.

"Be sure to head on over to www.iheartfaces.com to check out all of the beautiful face entries this week!"

2009-03-29T15:53:00.000-07:00

Visiting The Windy State.....of Florida

We are home from our spring-break Florida trip. We thought we'd enjoy nice sunny weather, slightly cool in the evenings- perfect for walking the beach or downtown Disney. Instead we were given cloudy, cool, windy, icky weather- not conducive to sunbathing! Or anything else.

We went to the Downtown Disney and curtsied with Sleeping Beauty

and enjoyed the Lego Store.

We swam on the ONE and only sunny ~~day~~ hour.

We went to the beach on the windiest day of the year. No really. We had to tie Kenzie down. And sand hurts. Just ask my legs.

And there were alligators. Really. I did not zoom. And a shuttle launch pad. Too cool.

We traveled to the in-laws and celebrated. Birthdays that is. Two of them. I brought no gifts. I know.

We zipped on a zipline. Whee.

We also went thrifting. And found great deals. I'll post those tomorrow. And we went to IKEA and found more deals. And that my dear friends was how we spent our spring break. How about you? Do anything fun?

2009-03-19T12:31:00.000-07:00

Enjoying the Day

It's been a crazy week of learning how to manage house, school, church and teaching at the school. I realize that I have to have a plan or I waste a lot of time. So yesterday after I got my haircut I took the kiddos on a very pleasant walk to the library. We took pictures of all the neat spring happenings.

They read some books while I looked at art books.

We walked through all the construction the library is doing past the bank with their pretty dogwoods.We walked by our church and enjoyed the blooming flowers.

Funny was an ambulance came by on a call and as they were zooming by with sirens wailing they waved to us- too funny!

We walked by the courthouse and enjoyed the beauty of it.
We walked past by Rose Center.

We found our first dandelions and blew them all over someone's yard- I'm sure they'll love us!
We hit our street and enjoyed all the dogwoods.
We arrived home and I thought we need to fertilize the yard.

Look at this beautiful weeping cherry tree.
We entered our gate and the swings were calling us.
What a beautiful day.

2009-03-11T12:11:00.000-07:00

Toby Mac and D C Talk, one and the same

This past weekend we took the boys to Winter Jam which featured awesome artists like Hawk Nelson, Newsong, The Afters, Pure NRG, Francesca Battistelli and our favorite Toby Mac!!! It was so fun to see the boys at their first concert- they were loving it! It was ear deafening and pure energy! It is amazing to me that I saw DC Talk (Toby Mac's band) 20 years ago at Disney World and now I'm at his concert again with my kids and he is old and has 5 kids and they love him!. So enjoy our pictures (taken during down time since we were on our feet most of the night!) and and the old and the new school videos.

The One and Only Toby Mac

Ross and Seth

Travis and Tessa

A not so good self picture of me!

Seth, Nate, Terry and Don

Travis as an usher

2009-03-11T06:05:00.000-07:00

10 Things I learned This Week

(Musings of a Housewife is having a Party- go check it out)

1. I learned that moving school buildings is really HARD work.

2. I learned that bullies have to be caught.

3. I learned that Kindergartners need vinyl smocks because paint goes right through cotton ones.

4. I learned Kindergartners love to paint.

5. I learned that every child is an artist.

6. I learned that when your son wakes up crying, he's sick.

7. I learned that I need to remind people to do things they said they would because they won't remember and then I'll want to crawl under a rock. (sorry Tim)

8. I learned that if I don't write down things I said I'd do I'll remember the night before and then have to scramble to pull it off. (thanks Dena and Aleshia)

9. I learned that setting up a group on Facebook could make me want to swear. maybe.

10. I learned that I need to make a schedule or else we will all be wearing dirty clothes.

What did you learn?

2009-03-04T04:41:00.000-08:00

Basketball Smack

(for dad and son)

I'm apologizing early in the fact that this is strictly a "mom" post. So for all you lurkers following my blog (and not leaving comments) you'll have to deal! Yesterday was Ross's basketball banquet and ballgame. And this is not any ballgame. This is dads against sons and moms against daughters. I'm talking pretty harsh competition. The night started with a whole lot of smack being talked and money changing hands. The competition was on and the dads wanted a replay of last year's win. Ross was so excited to be playing against his dad that all week, he just kept muttering "you're going down" and Travis in turn would tickle him to death! What fun.

The banquet was a 50's concession stand feel and was decorated darling.

The servers were also great.

Tessa- drinks (and she didn't spill anything)

Headmaster P- waiter

Awards were given and clapping and cheering followed.

Then the suspense was up- the game was on- may the best team win. The girls were up first with Travis as referee. Now that was a hilariously intense game of pushing and shoving. Those moms gave them what for.

Next came the boys and the pushing and shoving didn't stop. Although Ross didn't get as much ball time as he'd have liked it was a fun game to watch. At one point the coach threw in extra players to help the boys out- the referees were confused!

(see Ross sitting behind the other players)

It was a great night (thankfully since I missed American Idol for it) and all walked away sore. The girls beat the moms and the dads beat the boys, again. There is always next year.

Now back to the regularly scheduled program. How about those birds?

2009-02-28T10:37:00.000-08:00

Sunday Steals

I told you I wouldn't let you down. This past weekend was our half price day at the local GW boutique (also known as Goodwill) and I did great! I told myself going in I was shopping for myself first. I usually go straight to the kid's section and never leave time to shop for myself so today was going to be different.

American Eagle Shirt
$1.50

Banana Republic Pants
$2.00

Mossimo Skirt
$2.00

JimmyZs Shirt
$2.50

Jacket
$2.50

Abercrombie & Fitch Pants
$2.00

American Eagle Shirt
$2.50

Express Pants
$2.00

Mossimo Shirt
$1.50

Aeropostale Hoodie
$2.50

JimmyZs Tank
$1.50

American Eagle Capris
$2.50

Aeropostale hoodie
$2.50

Union Bay Shorts
$1.50

American Eagle Men's Shirt
$2.50

I did eventually get to the kid's section seeing I was there over 2 hours. *hehe* Here are 2 of the many deals.

Girls size 5 dress
$2.00

Girls Size 5 dress
$2.00

I did get some other good finds like some wool sweaters so I can do this project over at Michelle's site and some winter boots for Nate for next year, because you can't beat $1 snow boots.

So what did you get?

2009-02-26T11:18:00.000-08:00

Art Class Anyone

Know It, Love It, Display It

Today was the last day for the art teacher at the small classical christian school that my oldest attends. Why am I telling you this? Because I've been hired as the new art teacher to finish out the year. Exciting I know. Anyone that knows us knows we love to do art here. A lot. And this will be a chance to get other kids excited about doing art. My goal is for them to know it, love it and display it. I like art projects that are worthy of being hung up. I've spent a good part of this week preparing my lessons and projects for the kids. We will start with Picasso and his many different art techniques. I found this awesome flickr site by an elementary art teacher and I'm excited to try some of her projects. I also have the best art book by Usborne that has taken 22 artists, written a brief history (kid friendly), shows one of their famous art pieces and then shows how to replicate it. They use all sorts of mediums to recreate the masterpieces. I highly recommend it. I should mention that I had been searching my shelves for this book for a week before my sister informed me she had borrowed it. Have I mentioned we love art here?

Here's a sideways (I'm not sure why) sneak peak at two of our upcoming Picasso projects.

Oh and a cute picture of my oldest who is growing out his hair and not so sure about mom being the art teacher. Do you blame him?

Stay tuned, tomorrow is half price day at goodwill- where I'll hunt for an outfit for our "Under $10 fashion show". Want to join us? Just find an outfit for under $10 at a thrift store, blog about it and post it on Mr. Linky on Monday.

2009-02-22T16:04:00.000-08:00

I Hate Hydrogenated Oils, Amongst Other Things.

I've been dreading this week in February since August. You see sometime in August my mom was in the church office and saw the church calendar. She called me up and said, "Did you know you were on the schedule to speak at PEP moms in February?" I think I might have dropped the phone- but anyhow, no, I am 100% positive I did not agree to speak at anything, especially at the monthly mom's group.

How could this happen?

Who is responsible?

I need answers!

At about the same time a girl from church, who at the time I did not know well, named Margie called to apologize. "For what?" I asked. Well it seems she was the reason I was speaking in February. You see, in May they asked for suggestions for topics for the next year's meetings. And Margie, remembering a conversation we had on the phone said, and I quote, "I was talking with Kelly about healthy eating choices and I think it would be a great topic to have." Now, exactly how does that translate into "Kelly would love to do a talk on healthy eating" ? Please I need to know so it NEVER happens again.

I might add that I emailed the lady in charge of PEP moms to tell her she had made a big mistake. Anyone that knows me knows I DON'T TALK IN FRONT OF ANYONE- especially groups of people, who are looking at me, and expect me to be knowledgeable about a subject. It makes me downright sick- heaving- hyperventilating! I need a bag- breathe. Okay so I politely told her that I was not available. And she proceeded to give me this big long ridicules lecture about what if Moses had said no to God- where I proceeded to tell her she wasn't God and I was pretty sure God did not sign me up to do something He forgot to give me the ability to do. That's right people- I told her. Except it never was removed from the calendar, and it actually was given a title, Rebuilding the Temple-Eating God's Way. What? Come on, it sounds so Ezzo-ish! Ick! My title would have been funny- actually a title wouldn't have existed, but if it did, you would have laughed. So it seems I didn't tell her. It seems I was railroaded into talking about how I eat- and it seems with that title it has to be serious- which I don't do.

So Tuesday we (Margie wasn't getting out of this) will be doing something in the form of talking in front of a group about how we eat. We did manage to recruit my mom who is funny and smart enough to keep it interesting and make sense when I'm blubbering. And I think we've managed to become experts in hydrogenated oil and high fructose corn syrup. The hate of those two ingredients is equivalent to speaking in front of crowds. Just hearing those two words makes me want to gag. I should make a top 10 list of things I hate.

So if you want to hear my mom be witty and awesome (cause she is) and Margie, the new expert (cause she is) and me (just call me Vanna) then come on out. I'm praying for snow.

2009-02-18T18:18:00.000-08:00

10 minutes to a room you'll love

The Nester is having a party and I love parties. The assignment was to spend 10 minutes and spruce up an area in your house that needs some attention.

Our master bedroom needed 10 minutes of decluttering to make it a sanctuary.

The shelf in the bathroom needed 10 minutes to look not-so-bare but beachy. I love my kid's artwork on display. I can't figure out what to put in the "window" part of the shelf. Any ideas?

This lamp just needed to have its picture taken because it is so darn cute.

The kitchen counter and all those fabulous canisters needed to wink at us from their spot in the window.

The dining room cabinet needed a redo and although it took longer than 10 minutes it was a spruce up I had to share.

The dining room also needed great roman shades to cover up those windows. I'm just showing those because they're awesome.Now click on this link and go check out all the other 10 minute spruce-ups.

2009-02-10T08:59:00.000-08:00

Traveling To Blissdom

This past weekend I had the opportunity to travel without the kiddos. My mom and I joined Edie and Leighann in Nashville to attend BlissDom '09. Now for those of you that are wondering it was a conference on blogging. You are reading a blog. Your welcome.

Ok, so normally when I travel the amenities we look for are 1. indoor pool, can we squeeze 5 kids in without being noticed and can we get it for $30? So it was a treat to enjoy this swanky looking hotel.

Bamboo in the room?

Loving the lamps and headboard!

We weren't totally free from thinking of the kiddos though since our room was blessed with a huge framed photo of ......are you ready?

Ernest P. Worrell

Feel sorry please. Edie and Leighann had Dolly Parton and we get Ernest.

On to the swag (that means freebies). We were given the most fabulous bag of swag ever upon arrival. The sponsers went all out on us mommy-bloggers! Including this bag from Land's End- love them and their bags.

A $50 gift certificate to Crocs.com and people they make other shoes besides those mammoth things. These are the ones I picked.

The sound track to "He's Just Not That Into You", a book on blogging giants, CD from Chris Mann and Thriving Ivory (not to mention 2 tickets to their tour), awesome deals for online buying, a box of Little Debbies, water bottle, t-shirt from lijit, a christian fiction book, and lots more little things.

On to the conference. I was amazed at the amount of mommy-bloggers that have made a business out of writing about what they love. It was jaw dropping to me the opportunities they've been given. The advertisers are realizing the impact moms have on the economy and word of mouth advertising. Think about it- you read my blog daily (hypothetically, although you can you know), you trust me, you will consider purchasing what I purchase based on my review because of that trust. The advertisers have caught on to the trend.

While there Disney gave us the opportunity to view the premier of their newest project airing on March 2nd. It was called "Yanni Voices" . They even flew in 2 of the singers that perform to answer questions and sign autographs. It was a neat opportunity. (Ender on the left looks like he's related)

I was super excited to hear the Nester speak and wasn't disappointed. She did a great job and really got across how to stay true to your voice.

I also took another picture of Emily doing what she does- take AMAZING photos! I had the opportunity to talk to her at the pj party and confess that I'm the stalker that stole some of her "about me" wording! Thankfully she didn't run away screaming- she was so fun, down-to-earth, and fabulous.

We ended the night with a pj party in Edie and Leigh ann's room along with Vintage Squirrel who flew all the way from Boston by herself!

I know I enjoyed my weekend and came home with an overwhelming amount of information. Hopefully in the next few weeks I can get my voice out to all of you. Oh by the way, we are opening an Etsy shop within the week so book mark us and check back to purchase one of our "birds".

2009-02-06T20:24:00.000-08:00

I'm coming to you live from Blissdom '09 and so far it is swell- the highlight of my weekend was meeting my favorite blogger Emily at Chatting at the Sky.

More later.

2009-02-04T13:27:00.000-08:00

Random Thoughts

As I prepare to go to Blissdom this weekend I've spent quite a bit of time looking at other's blogs- those attending and those speaking. And I came to realize that we all have a niche that we have embraced in our blog. Some are decorating blogs, some are inspiring blogs, some are purely documenting a families homeschooling journey, and some are a way to write what they are thinking at the moment(which I've found scary sometimes). I thought back to when I started this blog and my reason was for my out-of-state family, so they could be apart of our lives daily. They could see what the kids were doing in school or what changes the house was getting. It was more pictures then writing because I hate to write and I loved it. It represented me very well. I was the mom, who homeschooled and loved to do art and rearrange furniture. The mom who took pictures of all the firsts and posted them. The mom who didn't care if the vacuum was in the picture. I had a mom blog.

But then I started reading other's blogs. I love reading the Nester's blog or Edie's blog and reading about cakes and thieves and mistreatment. They are fun and interesting and not my life. And I thought, I could do that, I'm creative and love to bake and well, I'll skip the thief post, but I want to be them. I want the blog everyone wants to read and comment on. No one wants to read my mom blog. My" look what my kids have accomplished" blog?

Who cares?

Do I care?

Really?

Do I really care?

What am I thinking? I am a mom. I do love to post about my kids. Do I really want more people to read it in exchange for my mom posts. Do I want strangers commenting about what a great post or recipe I posted? So as I think this through I've decided I enjoy my posts about art projects, and recipes, and other mundane daily activities we do. They are the history of our lives. The reminder of what we've done and how far we've come.

So I've decided I like my blog just how it is. But I totally release you to stop reading if you are feeling sick about all my kids accomplishments! *wink* I just want to be real and real to me is I'm a mom. With 3 kids. And a dog. And a husband. Who loves the Lord. Strives to be a better witness. And totally hates to write creatively. But loves to take pictures. Deal with it. Oh and look at these great photos of what we did on the snowy-est, coldest day of the winter! *heehee*

We "Sledded"

And Swam

2009-02-02T10:39:00.000-08:00

Blissdom 2009

I'm scared- Blissdom is in 4 days and I am getting nervous- sick to my stomach is more like it. I don't do anything that takes me out of my comfort zone.

Nothing.

Period.

What, you ask, is so scary? I'll sum it up in 4 words:

Cocktail Party with Blisstinis.

For some reason, that phrase conjures up some strange drunk-like atmosphere. I know, I watch too much tv, but I don't drink. At all. And I'm good with that. But can you attend a cocktail party and not drink? Do they serve water? Or sweet tea? I can get kind of giddy on sweet tea.

And what does one wear to a cocktail party? On tv, they always wear the slinky black dress that (I know Stacy and Clinton) every closet should have. Well, I don't. And I'm not going to buy one. So do they let you in if you are in, say, jeans? And layered shirts? With some swanky shoes? And matching handbag? Will they let me in or will I be told I didn't dress properly. It happened to me once before and I don't want to repeat the scene.

So as I sit here and heave, and question what I was thinking, being talked into going to this event, I'll leave you with this. If I'm not having fun or they're having too much fun (wink) then anyone know where the nearest goodwill is? I can feel a bargain in music city!

2009-01-29T16:58:00.000-08:00

Finally a party I can join with confidence! Over at Living Life Creatively their having a party! A ten dollar party! She has challenged us to go thrifting and put together an under $10 outfit. Well I have several favorite finds just this month.

jimmy z shirt $1.50

union bay pants $2.50

nike pants $1.50
nike shirt $1.50

gap shirt $1.50
nike pants $1.50
nike shoes $3.50

aeropostle capris $2.50
american eagle shirt $2.00
mossimo sleeveless shirt $1.50

2009-01-28T07:56:00.000-08:00

Keeping My Hands Busy

I love to keep my hands busy. Not with laundry or dishes. With little quick projects. Projects that can be done at the end of a long day while I watch Idol or CSI or Samantha Who. Projects that I can finish. Quick. I recently read this blog and decided that this is my kind of project. It is called 52Q and each week she'll ask a new question that I will ask myself and journal the answer. But not just journal but actually creatively journal. Here are a few of her cards- (remember I'm starting 4 weeks late so I have some catching up to do).

Week 1 What are my wishes for 2009?

Her Answer

Week 3- Do You Believe In Fairies?

I just loved her cards and feel so inspired to start so I'll be starting this week and hope to post mine weekly- let me get caught up first! Do you want to join me? Go read her blog and get the last 4 questions and get journalling!

2009-01-26T05:32:00.000-08:00

Life Is Hilarius

I think this is how I feel some days. You know that feeling of just spinning your wheels. The days when you can't seem to get ahead- you clean one room- move to the next and the kiddos come behind you and mess it up! Go ahead and relate with me. And laugh because it will probably be one of those days. After all it is Monday. ( I haven't figured out how to shrink it a bit)

Chock Full Of Shopping Carts @ Yahoo! Video

2009-01-22T15:01:00.001-08:00

Blog Buttons

What do you think of my new blog button? I'm determined to figure out these blog secrets on my own but I don't want to mess up my blog so I am starting out small! As soon as I have it finished you can add the link to your blog.

I also am doing one for my business website.

2009-01-20T07:23:00.000-08:00

My Sickness and Snow

I have a sickness. Or I should say my mother and I have a sickness. If you read her post about the AWESOME auction deals then you probably picked up on the fact that we did indeed buy 2 more chairs for our humble chair less home. They were a great deal and no one was bidding. We couldn't let them feel unwanted. Yes, we have a sickness but the first step is acknowledging our addiction. And look at the bright side, someone outbid us on the 6 vintage folding chairs we tried to get and now 2 more people can come to dinner. I love chairs.

Snow

The weathermen once again got it wrong. They said our town would get no snow. None. Not a chance. We woke up to snow, finally. Now compared to most snow receiving states we got a dusting but for us it was great! And they called off school tomorrow. And 4 people called and said they couldn't come to my Pampered Chef show last night because it was flurrying and what if they couldn't get home. I love the south and snow and chairs.

Our attempt at a snow angel in the deepest snow we had-- on the driveway!

2009-01-16T13:14:00.000-08:00

What do you collect?

Yesterday it was brought to my attention (thanks Kate) that we collect chairs. I mean we are like the home for misfit chairs. We seem to think we need to sit in every room in our house. Heaven forbid we have to walk to another room to sit down. I'm sure you now wondering how many chairs we have.....between my mom and I (we live in the same house) we have , are you ready for this?

39 chairs
2 piano benches,
1 vanity bench,
4 "upholstered"chairs
and 2 video game chairs.

Who needs 48 chairs? I don't even have that many friends.

I mean if someone said what do you collect, chairs would not come to mind. So what do I collect?

Salt and pepper shakers.

White vases and goblets.

Books

So now I'm curious how many chairs are in your house?

And what item is in your house that you unawareingly "collect" ? (Is unawareingly a word?)

2009-01-12T17:40:00.000-08:00

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Sites

I thought I'd take a moment for all of my 2 readers and share some of my favorite sites. I have a few I love to check daily for new ideas. So enjoy! (just click on them)

This site is so fun.

This is where I desire to live! *wink* It is me to a tee!
A Beach Cottage

This is the Nester's sister and I love her style of writing.
Chatting At The Sky

I love this site when Nate and I are doing art!
Art Projects for Kids

This is the best homeschooling site for lapbooking.

Homeschool Share


If I want to be encouraged I visit these two.
His Mercy Is New
Bring The Rain
(warning- have tissues ready)


And of course I check the family and friend's blogs.
Living Life Creatively
Chase Your Dreams
Life On Grace


I hope you enjoy reading!

2009-01-05T16:55:00.000-08:00

NEW YEAR TRAVELS

We took a quick trip to Florida to visit family and my sweet husband was so nice and took us to the beach. We were racing the sunset to get there in time but we did manage to get a few good pictures and feel the sand in our toes before the sun went down.

Travis and Kenzie

Mom and Kenzie

The Hunky Daddy

The Girls

Nate

Ross

Boy Overboard

Happy New Year

2008-12-29T07:37:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve Service
Ross, narrator
Nate, inn keeper
Kenzie, sheep

2008-12-29T07:35:00.000-08:00

GOOD MORNING, GOOD MORNING, GOOD MORNING
IT'S TIME TO RISE AND SHINE!
It's Jesus' birthday!

2008-12-29T07:34:00.000-08:00

What did Santa bring?

Santa brought Ross and Kenzie scooters and Nate received a tool box and woodburning kit!

2008-12-29T07:32:00.000-08:00

This is so fun!

A Name Stamp

The only picture of me! And not that great of one!

A New Watch

2008-12-29T07:31:00.000-08:00

Don't you love the pj's I made this year!

Kenzie slowly unwrapping.

WooHoo, Uncle Mike gave the movie Tinkerbell!

Nate is really excited Uncle Mike gave them Prince Caspian!