Tuesday Twelve

1.  The last number of days have been filled with fun!  Friday The Mister went out for guys poker night and my friend Jacy came here with her girls for a sleepover.  I think we had as much fun as the kids.  Saturday was Basketball and Ryan had his best game yet.  His team didn't win, but we were so proud of how well Ryan played and thrilled that he had a lot of fun during the game and really shone as a leader on his team.  Saturday night I went to an ornament exchange with my old mom's group.  It was great to see some friends I haven't seen in a number of months and the night went better than anticipated considering there were some hurt feelings when I left.  The best part was seeing my friend Tanya.  She's cutting her hair and going in for a double mastectomy this week.  It felt good to hug her.

2.  Ryan got a surprise invite for a sleepover Saturday night and we didn't see him until Monday afternoon when I picked him up.  We really missed him here, but wow, the house was so mellow.  Crazy that he's old enough to go stay at a friends house for two whole days!

3.  Little Miss has been drawing up a storm lately and her artistic skills are increasing in leaps and bounds.  She went from drawing stick people to drawing flowers, hearts, rainbows and birds almost over night.  Even Ryan has commented on how good her pictures are.

4.  We had our first Skype experience a few days ago.  It was so fun and the kids really enjoyed SEEING their Grandparents and Great Grandma while talking to them.  Now that I realize how neat it is, I'll be encouraging some others to sign up for this free service.

5.  I made cut out sugar cookies from scratch this morning.  That dough is tough to work with!  Ended up with lots of cute stockings, presents, snowmen, snowflakes, Christmas trees, stars and bells.  Even better, all the kids that came over today seemed to have a good time decorating them.  Oh, and the best part, I had the big boy do a taste test between a box mix for sugar cookies that I made last week and the recipe I made this morning.  He thought the 'from scratch' cookie was better.  Yay!

6. The Mister is off work for a week, starting tonight!  I feel like we need to celebrate!  He's been working so hard for so long, I hope he's able to completely unplug for at least a couple days.

7.  I love going to the mailbox this time of year.  It's so much fun getting pictures and seeing how kids have grown over the year or getting cards with letters that share what the person's year held.  I'm always really impressed by the handmade cards, one day I might follow suit.  Maybe.  I'm not the best at keeping in touch, which makes the yearly cards even more precious to me.

8.  E has started taking his diaper off.  I walked into his room this morning to find his pj's on the floor, his diaper next to him in his crib and his onesie around his waist.  We haven't had the poop smeared all over everything experience with him yet but I know it's just a matter of time.  The older two both did it once, wonder how many times my little man will decide to play in the disgusting brown goo.

9.  There were 20 people at my house today, 6 moms and 14 kids.  I was thankful, yet again, for our new house which is so much better for hosting playdates.  I used to hate to host because there just wasn't enough space for kids to play and mom's to not be in the middle of it all.  Now I really enjoy having people over, especially when the kids are all so good and the mom's are so fun to be around.  Playdate at my place...bring it on!  Oh and Barbara, if you're reading this,  I promise not to steal anything from you next time we're together. ;)

10.  I actually got Christmas cards out this year....to most people.  No writing, just pictures, but a big accomplishment, nonetheless.  Christmas cards have been spotty for the last number of years so I'm thrilled to have sent some out.  Next year the list will grow as I compile a few more addresses over the year.

11. I'm enjoying a small piece of Williams-Sonoma Peppermint Bark as I type this.  (Thank you Craig and Mary!)  If you like Peppermint, dark chocolate and white chocolate, you must try this.  Don't try any of the copy cats, Williams-Sonoma makes the best version, just the right thickness and mix of flavors.   Between this and the white chocolate covered pretzels my MIL sent, the few pounds I've lost are sure to find their way back.

12.  Last but not least, I got a surprise gift that meant so much to me today.  It included something hand made and a small purchased item that I'd mentioned wanting awhile back and promptly forgotten.  My friend heard and remembered.  The hand made item is now proudly displayed on my buffet and the other will be well used.  I'm so blessed to have such sweet and thoughtful friends.  Thanks girl, you're the best!

Busy Busy Busy!

This week has been never ending, yet not nearly long enough.  Every year I think I'll get Christmas stuff done early so I can sit back and enjoy all the events and the spirit of the season and each year I feel behind by the first of December.   And it only gets worse.  The weather here has made things a bit more difficult this week, one snow day and two early release days coupled with 3 kids Christmas parties and I basically lost my last few hours of kid free time.  Thankfully everything is done for school parties and I'm nearing the end of my Christmas shopping and gift making.  A few more parties to look forward too over the next number of days and then some time to sit back and think about the reason for the season, and enjoy the Christmas tree, pine and cinnamon scents floating around the house, candle light, Christmas carols and Christmas goodies my Mother In Law sent.  Yum.  Since we live far from all our relatives, I'm really looking forward to some quality down time with my little family next week.

The desire for family time is exacerbated by wanting to be with and support my extended family right now.  My Aunt's husband passed away yesterday.  He was surrounded by those that loved him and his passing was peaceful.  A blessing, but its never easy to lose someone and I'd think harder at this time of year.   I really feel for my aunt, his children and my cousins.

Back to work.  Still lots to do!

Signs

The changing table I've used with all three kids broke this morning.  Maybe it's a sign that potty training should begin?  He'll be two next month, sits on the potty all the time and tells me when he has a wet diaper.    Unfortunately he still wakes up soaking wet every morning and from every nap.  Don't think we're there yet, but it's coming soon!  It will be bittersweet to not have a baby in the house, but I'm looking forward to the end of diapers.

For the love of books

E had to sit in time out at Mother's Day Out today.  It's the first time he's gotten in trouble at school.  I was mortified when I asked what he'd done, anticipating hitting, pinching or yelling "NO" when asked to do something.  He's done all those things at home, learned those tricks from his older siblings well before he should have.

Thankfully, he wasn't mean to another child or his teacher.  He was, however, mean to an inanimate object.
The boy ripped the flaps out of his favorite book.  He's done it at home too.  More than once.  Sigh.

For a book lover, this is a painful challenge.

Tuesday Twelve

1.  Another friend, another terrible illness.  She has lots of spunk and will to live and a sweet little boy who will encourage her to fight the battle of her life...for her life.  Brain tumor...breast cancer...these women are young, early 30's young.  What's going on with my friends??  Maybe it's Tennessee?  I've already lost a really good friend to Leukemia since moving here, this group of women is too young to have more loss.  Again, if you're the praying kind and have a few spare prayers, Tanya and Margie can use them.

2.  It's been cold here the last few days!  Like below freezing even during the day, cold.  With the cold came a discovery that all my kids need new winter jackets.  I thought the older two would be able to wear theirs another year, bummer.

3.  Along with the cold came snow flurries, which have really helped get me into the Christmas spirit!

4.  My goal is to get all Christmas crafting and shopping completed by the end of this weekend and then shipped Monday.  We'll see if I can make it happen.

5.  E has started talking up a storm.  It's great because he's able to communicate more and is less frustrated. The only sign he continues to use is more, and only when he really wants something.

6.  Even though he's a full on toddler now, there are still remnants of the baby days.  He still loves a good cuddle and loves to rock to the music for a few minutes before being laid down for a nap or bedtime.  I love that he has always been a kid that wants to be held and cuddled.  Since he's our last baby, I'm soaking it all up.  Don't get me wrong, he's all boy and is off and running when the kids are around, but he's always ready to give his momma a hug when she needs one.

7.  This is another item from our craft day, super cute necklace, right?!  It's made with a washer, scrap book paper, and a Mod Podge product that I can't remember the name of.  Every time I wear it I get compliments and I LOVE the color combination.  Love craft day even more!

8.  The big boy and I are going to have it out after school.  He's choosing not to obey a rule, so its time to lay down the law.  Not looking forward to it because I know there will tears.

9.  He came home, we had it out.  He took it better than anticipated.  I'm proud of him and hope a lesson has been learned.

10.  It's so quiet in my house right now.  The younger two are napping and the big boy is in his room doing something with crayons, paper and a few sniffles.

11.  We're having Chili for dinner, I should cut up veggies while the kiddos are quiet.

12.  I started this post at 7:32 this morning.  It took me until 3:46 to finish it.  But hey, at least I finished it, which is more than I can say for a couple other tasks I started today.

Way Back Wednesday

This picture was taken during the spring of 2005.  Our big boy was about the age our daughter is now.  We still see one of the girls in the picture all the time, all the others have moved.  The middle girls in each row are my friend Jenna's daughters.  Even though they're only an hour away, we don't see them much anymore.  It's so sad because when I go back through old pictures, there are so many of the kids together.  They were all such great friends.  We miss them and Jenna.  Hard to believe she's been gone for 2.5 years.

And another taken the following fall at the pumpkin patch.  Barbara, if you're reading this, I'd forgotten how short Ryan was compared to Brianna!

Tuesday Twelve & Giving Thanks

1.  Christmas Decorating has begun at our house!  Lights and greenery are up outside, the tree is up and the mantel is almost done.  I've added white candles along the mantel and will be adding some cricut art soon.  I usually decorate with lots of green and red at this time of year, but I wanted to highlight my new book page wreath and it just came together with muted tones this time.  It's so pretty when all the candles are lit, even without the splash of colors.

2.  The book page wreath was another project from ACD.  I've been wanting to make one forever and just hadn't gotten around to it.  I literally clapped my hands in delight when I saw it was a friend's project for the day.  A couple dollars for supplies, a couple hours of time and you have a gorgeous wreath made from the pages of a thesaurus, a whole lot of glue sticks and a foam form.

3.  Our friend Tilly the Elf arrived Friday morning.  He even brought a book so we could read it to the kids and tell them all about our new friend.  He reports back to the North Pole each night to fill Santa in on if the kids have been naughty or nice, each morning reappearing in a new spot in the house.  The older two have had lots of fun searching out his hiding places each day.

4.  I made comfort food for lunch today.  Grilled cheese, tomato soup and dill pickles.  We were out of margerine so I used real butter.  Yum.  I didn't realize what a difference the butter made.

5.  Black Friday shopping was a success, albeit a few hours later than anticipated.  I ended up getting sick Thanksgiving night, so rather than go shopping I went home and slept for 12 hours.  Got up the next day and decided to brave the crowds for a bit, which meant I'm about half done with Christmas and birthday shopping.

6.  One of our kids has a birthday just a week after Christmas and then another 2 weeks later.  Yikes!

7.  I ordered a Compound Miter Saw for myself for Christmas.  I don't think it's going to make it under the tree, I have plans for it as soon as it arrives!

8.  I am the proud owner of a pair of skinny jeans.  I sit somewhere between an hourglass and pear shape, so if I can wear them anyone can.  You just have to find the right top and boots to accompany them.  Check and Check.  It's been years since I shopped The Gaps jeans, but I'll be back...when I have a coupon.  I'm in need of a serious wardrobe update, thank you Black Friday for helping me take a baby step.

9.  My fridge is empty.  Really need to grocery shop but it's raining and I despise going to the grocery store with small kids when it's raining.  Kids, groceries and especially me are always soaking wet by the time I'm done loading everyone and everything.  Guess I'll be pulling a meal entirely from our freezer and pantry staples tonight.  Hmmm, wonder what it will be....

10.   I love ABW and recurring payments.  I remember the days when you had to write checks for everything.  Paying bills is sooo much faster now.

11.  I'm going to take advantage of E's naptime and try to get some crafting done today.  Hoping the Little Miss cooperates.

12.  I'm thankful for Thanksgiving and the reminder that I can chose to be thankful and focus on all the good things big and small.  That mindfulness can sometimes change a mood, or a day, or how I react to a person or event.  Thankful.

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday to my second dad!  Hope you have a great day, even though you're working.  Knowing you, I'm sure there are lots of people you're working with who will celebrate with you during the quiet moments.  Your gift has been hard for me this year. I'll continue working on it after the kids are in bed and hopefully you'll get it before the new calendar year.  You know it would be a lot easier if we just bought each other gifts.  Wait I take that back, what do you buy the guy that can buy whatever he wants?  Guess this is better.  :)

ILY

Happy Thanksgiving!

I woke up this morning, laid in bed listening to the wind in the trees and silence.  No one in our house was up yet and I enjoyed a moment of solitude and thankfulness.  On this Thanksgiving day I have so much to be thankful for.   All month I've been mindful of something I'm thankful for each day.  Many of my thankful thoughts have been small pleasures like coffee, others large enveloping things like the love and support of my family and friends.  No matter how large or small, I've been reminded this month how much I have, literally and figuratively.

This week has been one of distraction for me.  Two of the kids have been a bit more needy, one due to a sinus infection and the other to a cold and random hives (bug bites to her) that keep popping up.  I also ended a friendship with someone I've known for a number of years.  We weren't great friends but more than acquaintances.  It was a mutual decision, we'd both been hurt by the other.  I had a hard time with it.  Not because the friendship was ending, I think that was the right thing for both of us, but because she was right that I hadn't forgiven for past issues and that had played out over the last couple months.  Apparently I needed a lesson on forgiveness, and a reminder of the damage that can be done when you don't forgive.  That said, I'm happy to have cut ties and look forward to moving forward with all the great friendships I've been blessed with.

I also spent some time at a specialist's office this week.  I had some blood taken last week and got news this week that it came back with some abnormalities.  So off to the doctor I went, hoping to get some answers.  Unfortunately, that appointment ended with me having a lot less blood and no more answers than when I'd arrived.  It appears I'm in the category of medical mystery for the second time in my life.  Our unexplained infertility was explained in time, hopefully this will get figured out with the next round of bloodwork.

With all that going on this week, I appreciate this day to spend with family and our family away from family.  I don't have to cook a single thing, yet get to eat a delicious meal.  I get to spend time with people I love and who love me.  I don't have to worry about prepping for company or cleaning up after.  I'll probably get some yummy leftovers to bring home for tomorrow and I get to shop on BF for the second year in a row.  I've perused the ads this morning and look forward to getting some great deals for Christmas and birthdays for the younger two, but really it's about a new tradition with an awesome friend.

Today I am so very thankful!

Tuesday Twelve

Sorry for the lack of posts, we've been busy!

1.  We're watching a friend's dog for a few days.  Having her here always makes us remember how much we love having pets.  I have to keep reminding myself...not until all the humans are potty trained.

2.  E has another sinus infection, poor kiddo just got over one about a month ago.  Thankfully a 24 hour stomach bug for Ryan has been the only other illness in our house this fall!

3.  We had a great week with weather in the 70's, awesome cleansing breezes and lots of sunshine.  The rain blew in last night and while it's cooler and rainy today, the rain pounding against the house during the early morning hours was so soothing.

4.  We have a visitor arriving Friday.  Look for a future post with details.

5.  Ryan had his first basketball game last Saturday.  He did so well and we were so proud.  His team won 13-10 and he made 8 of those points.  I was glad he did so well with baskets but proud that he wasn't a ball hog and knew when to pass instead of trying to make a shot.  Looking forward to the next couple months.

6.  Never thought I'd say I looked forward to watching basketball games.

7.  Little Miss has started displaying some attitude.  It's really hard not to laugh when she stomps her foot and gives me her mad face.  Although, that's often the best thing to do, it distracts her from being mad and she joins in the laughter.

8.  Just found out a friend is going through a really difficult time.  Health and finances are great when you have them, so stressful when you don't.  I found myself praying for her numerous times today, she's going to need lots of strength to get through the next few months.

9.  I'm so lucky to have parents who are doctors.  It's so easy for me to call and ask them questions and get advice about how to handle things.  I realize medical issues are that much harder for those without that knowledge base to draw on.

10.  I've been distracted this week and haven't been very motivated.  Looking forward to a weekend full of accomplishment.

11.  Also looking forward to 5 days off for our whole family!  The Mister was supposed to work tomorrow but unforseen circumstances pulled him out of work.  He's thrilled for one more day of vacation and in all honesty, really needs the time away to recharge. I'm glad he got an extra day...just hope it's relaxing.

12.  Particularly thankful today to have friends that are loving, supportive and always willing to help out.  The kind who watch your kids at the drop of a hat and bake you cookies when you're down can be hard to find, so if you've got friends like that hold on to them and return the favor!

Tuesday Twelve & Giving Thanks

1.  It's a dreary day.  Makes me want to crawl under the covers and take a nap...and it's only 8:30 am.

2.  Little Miss has been obsessed with rainbows and has drawn probably 100 over the last couple days.  Maybe she brought the rain?

3.  I'm contemplating cutting up a perfectly good GAP sweater.  I won't wear it again, and I have ideas for ways to use it.  Problem is, it's a nice sweater that wasn't cheap and someone else could wear it.  I think I'm gonna have to suck it up and cut up a perfectly good piece of clothing for the greater good.  That greater good being decorating/craft projects in my house.

4.  The bridge of my nose hurts, as in sensitive to touch, for no particular reason.  It's been this way for a number of days.  Weird.

5.  Christmas is only 39 days away.  Yikes!

6.  I'm in the process of helping a friend put a quote on her wall.  Makes me want to get some vinyl on my wall too.  My Cricut is getting quite a work out lately.

7.  The boy kept us busy last weekend.  Within three days he had a cub scout meeting, basketball practice, a birthday party to shop for and attend and a family event with cub scouts.  Wondering what we're going to do when all three of them have that much going on.

8.  My iPhone rocks.  I love it and how useful it can be.  Unfortunately, it's helped me become even worse at responding to email.  I read something on my phone and know I need to reply, but the reply will be long.  So I wait until I get on the pc, and by that time...well, I've forgotten about it and moved on.

9.  The boy was on the phone with a friend from school for an hour last night.  A girl friend.  He's quick to clarify that she's a tomboy and that they talk about sports.  Glad we have a house phone now, I think the calls are going to continue.

10.  The baby (who is no longer a baby but we aren't talking about that) is a dare devil.  I have a feeling he will cause lots of grey hair and wrinkles over the years.  His favorite trick right now is jumping off random things.  Sigh.

11.  Little Miss is the biggest creator of mess in this house.  Within any given day, she brings 3/4 of the toys from her room to every other room in the house.  Top that with hitting her non-cleaning phase and we have a grumpy mommy.  E, on the other hands, makes a mess just so he can clean it up...and sing the song.  I'm cherishing it since I know it won't last.

12.  And finally, day 16 of being Thankful...  Today I'm thankful that I'm able to stay home with my kids.  Some days they drive me crazy.  Some days I want to pull my hair out, run away, cry with frustration.  Some days I wish I could be anywhere but here.  But most days, I'm thankful that I get to see all their phases, I get hugs and kisses, I get to color with M, dance in the kitchen with the boys, listen to the big boy talk about school and friends, cuddle on the couch while we read stories...and the list goes on and on.  We really do appreciate how short these years are, and while they've been a bit longer for us due to the length of time between R & M, they've been worth it.  Having a little time to myself, with the younger two in preschool twice a week, helps my appreciation and thankfulness. *

*I may need to be reminded of this thankfulness tonight when my kids are screaming and fighting and don't want to eat the dinner I've made, take a bath, do homework, clean their room, etc.

Diamonds and a drill bit?

My second craft for our ACD (annual craft day) was a lighted wine bottle. I got the idea because of a pretty bottle with a B molded into the glass that we had. Monograms are huge right now and I knew my friend Jacy, who has a wine themed kitchen and a last name that starts with B would love a pretty bottle. But what to do with it? I searched the web and came across wine bottle lamps and wine bottles with lights inside. The second option was cute, inexpensive and quick, so I went with that. Off to my local big orange box for a diamond drill bit so I could drill through glass. They didn't have one....but the other chain in town did. Expensive drill bit, I'm going to have to make a lot of lighted wine bottles to justify it, or maybe I'll make this.

Armed with my new bit, The Misters cordless drill, a spray bottle, protective eye wear, gloves and a vice, I set to work trying to drill a hole through the bottle. Let me first say, it was really hard to get the bit to start a hole on a round, slick surface. So, I resorted to spraying the water while The Mister drilled the holes. For the record, he thought it was difficult too.

One set of mini lights shoved through the hole in the back of the bottle...

And this is what you get...

This isn't the pretty bottle with the monogram but a bottle that we've kept around for a number of years because the label fits us. It sits on my kitchen counter right now and I love the soft glow that comes from it when the rest of the lights are off.

*No wine was spilled during the making of this craft, and none was consumed until after the drill was put away.

Kidisms

The 9 year old - "Mom, it's like you know everything."

The first and probably last time I will hear those words come out of his mouth. At least until he's 30 or so.

Little Miss - "Eli is my favorite boy, I think we should keep him."

Ummm, glad you like him and yes we will be keeping him.

Little Miss - "Mom, why do fish swim?"

Me - "I don't know, why?"

LM - "Because they're silly...bwahhahahahahaha...that was a joke...bwahahahahahahaha"

3.5 and already telling jokes. Is she destined to be the class clown?

Giving Thanks - Day 10 & 11

Missed a day of posting my thankfulness here, but did get it on facebook. Yesterday I was thankful for a perfect fall day, one that encouraged lots of outdoor play after school. Also thankful for the backyard full of grass to play on, thanks to The Mister and his determination.

Today I'm thankful for all the people who have given their service and lives for our country. Especially thankful to my dad, FIL, Grandfather, all my BIL's and my uncle who lost his life in Vietnam.

Wordless Wednesday (with a title)

The Budding Decorator Strikes Again

Tuesday Twelve & Giving Thanks

1. Day 9 of my month of giving thanks. Today I'm thankful for fabulous friends, old and new. They know me and love me and make me feel better when I'm being too hard on myself. They support me and offer words of encouragement. They make me laugh and let me cry. They join me in making great memories. I get so much from my friends, I can only hope they feel the same.

2. I had a brainstorm a few days ago. It involves my desire for a pantry, built in cabinets and a window seat. I can picture it all in my head. It will be gorgeous. One day.

3. Brand new house and I'm already thinking of ways to change it. I have a problem.

4. The kids and I went for a great walk yesterday afternoon, it ended with me riding down the street on a princess scooter while Eli yelled at me to "GO!!!". Little Miss and I were in a race. She won...wink wink.

5. Love the beautiful fall days, which allow for said walks.

6. Eli's favorite word is bus. We counted 9 on the way to and from school this morning.

7. I can't believe I haven't mentioned this before now, guess it speaks to my lack of blogging, Ryan got straight A's on his report card and is now reading at a 5th grade level. Proud mommy.

8. It's the 9th of November and I haven't even thought about what we'll be doing for any of the holidays this year. Then we have two birthdays right after. Time to start planning.

9. I love my house. Love having enough space for all of us, and love dreaming about all the decorating potential. I've never been a fan of unused space, and this house is big, but with 5 family members, we really do use it all almost daily. The dining room is the only exception and it's been home to my crafting for the last week. Love having more space.

10. Don't love cleaning it though.

11. Already thinking about Black Friday shopping. I got some great deals last year and had a lot of fun in the process. I'm glad my shopping buddy will be in town. Maybe a few more will join us too!

12. Eli has been called a girl a lot lately. I really need to stop postponing it and get his hair cut. I love his curls so much, but with less humidity it's looking pretty big. A Baby Nick Nolte after his nap. Can't cut it until I get a picture.

Giving Thanks - Day 8

A quarter of the way through the month, and no lack of things to be thankful for. Most days there are so many I have trouble picking just one. Today I'm thankful to be finding joy in blogging again. Finding the time and inspiration can be rough, but I love the outlet it provides. I also love being able to go back and read about our life. Regarding that, I really wish I'd been blogging through our IVF's. For a while I was so knowledgeable about the process and meds, I almost sounded like I was in the medical profession when I talked about. Now that we're 4.5 years out, I've forgotten a lot. In all honesty, I probably don't want to remember a lot of it, those weren't fun times. It's a shame though because an acquaintance is in the beginning stages of IVF and I wish I had more to offer her. What do you wish you'd written down for future reference?

Feeling Crafty?

What do you get from 3x3 wooden cubes, a piece of a 2x4, numerous srapbook papers, some Mod Podge, a little spray paint, sand paper, elbow grease, vinyl and a Cricut? (Can you find my little helpers?)

Lots of Mod Podge and a few hours of dry time later, you have these.....

Countdown to Christmas Blocks!

I've been wanting to make them since I saw them on a few crafty blogs last year. (Wish I could remember which blogs so I could give credit.) ACD (Annual Craft Day) inspired me to get off my butt and dowit! I went with a red and aqua theme because mine are sitting on a table between two aqua lamps. Everyone else at craft day had more Christmas inspired paper, and they all looked sooo cute. I can't wait to make more.

By request, a basic tutorial...

Supplies:

2 3x3 cubes. (I've seen 3x3x~30 at the big orange box. They cut the piece of wood into cubes for me at no charge.)

1 2x4 cut to 7"pieces for the base

6 t0 13 coordinating papers

Mod Podge

Sand Paper

Spray Paint or acrylic paint in your chosen color

Sand the pieces getting rid of sharp and splintered edges. Wipe clean with a wet paper towel and paint. I used spray paint, flat white, but you could use acrylic paint too. Cut your papers for the front of the base and all sides of the blocks. Paint the back of the paper with Mod Podge as well as the block and apply to all sides. Once dry, you'll add the block numbers and then another coat of Mod Podge.

Details:

Block 1: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Block 2: 0, 1, 2, 6, 7, 8

(make sure the 6 can double as a 9)

I cut my block paper to 2 1/2 x 2 1/2 and the base was 1 1/4 x 6 3/4

I used Alphalicious font on my Cricut and vinyl for the letters and numbers. Numbers were cut at 2" and letters were 3/4".

To add character, you could use paper for letters and numbers, distress the paper, add finishing nails at the corners, etc.

Giving Thanks - Day 7

Today I'm thankful for the scent of baking pumpkin loaf filling my house. And thankful I bought the big can of pumpkin puree so I could make a double batch! I look forward to delivering some mini loaves to friends and still having some left over for the freezer.

Giving Thanks: Day 6

Thankful for ACD...not to be confused with OCD. ACD = Annual Craft Day and is one of my favorite days of the year. Better than my birthday, almost as good as Christmas. Seriously. ACD is a group of crafty friends coming together, each bringing a craft, and each walking away at the end of the day with a number of completed projects. There's food and fun and laughter but the day is about the love of crafting. I planned to take pictures, unfortunately my camera never left my purse. Distracted by the crafting I guess....and the suh-weet book wreath I saw the minute I walked through the door. Have I mentioned how much I love this day?

Giving Thanks: Day 5

Today I'm thankful for a husband that is always willing to help me when I need it. I had a great idea for a craft project and but didn't have the strength or maybe the skill with power tools needed to make it a reality. He helped me without question and despite being tired after a long day at work. Love that man.

Giving Thanks: Day 4

Today I'm thankful for TV...sad but true. The Mister and I watch a couple shows on Thursday night that we really enjoy. They pull us out of our lives and allow us a couple hours of mindless enjoyment. To piggy back on that, I'm also thankful for DVR. Often the shows we enjoy are not kid friendly yet are shown during the munchkins waking hours or bedtime routine. DVR is the best of both worlds...mindless enjoyment, when we want it, without commercials. Full of win!

In other news...

While at the grocery store today, I came across dark chocolate covered pretzels with York Peppermint Patty in the center. Two words. Diets. Suck.

Giving Thanks - Day 3

Today I'm thankful for the cute pink rain boots I bought on clearance last summer. They've kept my feet warm and dry on a cold and rainy day. Plus they're bright and fun on a dreary day.

An Anniversary

Yesterday was my mom and stepdad's 25th wedding anniversary. They celebrated it by flying to the other side of the world. Literally the other side of the globe, people. It's safe to say, this is not a trip I would have done well with. I'm more of a beach, umbrella drink, take in the sites and eat yummy local delights kind of girl. I must have been adopted. Anyway, the Rents and Hot Brother will be camping their way through rural villages on a continent far far away for a bit. While it's not my thing, I'm so impressed by their desire to know the world and learn about it by visiting the good, the bad and the ugly. So without further ado...Happy Anniversary to M&G! May their travels be plentiful, their packs be light, their tummies unaffected, their shoes unstolen, their pictures beautiful and thought provoking, their stories interesting, their soundtracks evolving and their love enduring.

LYBMTYK

Giving Thanks: Day 2

Today I'm thankful for Democracy and the chance for our voices to be heard.

Tuesday Twelve

1. Basketball starts for Ryan this week. Much less time intensive than baseball and a sport he really enjoys. I hope his coach is good and Ryan enjoys the season since this will be his first time playing organized basketball. I'm not particularly excited about his teams practice time....6 pm, Friday night, across town. Ahh, the joys of parenting.

2. I'm amazed at how much I can check off my list when I'm not toting kids with me. In preparation for our annual craft day I went to Target, Dollar Tree, Home Depot, Lowe's, Walmart and Hobby Lobby, along with lunch at Panera, Grocery shopping and unloading today. All within the 5 hours the younger two were at MDO. I felt so accomplished.

3. Speaking of craft day, this week I'll be prepping wine bottles and wood for two different crafts. Can't wait to see how they turn out.

4. The Mister and I actually had a dress up, adults only Halloween party to attend this year. I knew people attending the party would be bringing their A game for costumes so I spent some time trying to figure out what we would be and then shopping for the pieces to pull it together. We ended up going as Peace and Quiet. The Mister is a very believable Hippie. Me as a mime, not so much. I started talking about 3 minutes after walking in the door.

5. The kids had a great time TOTing. Eli wore a costume that Ryan wore when he was just over a year old. <3

In his Tigger costume and eating candy before we even made it to the end of our street.

Makenna who was running and stopped on dime to pose for this picture.

Ryan with our neighbor Mitchell. We ran into them while we were out and spent the rest of the night walking and chatting.

Enough with the pictures, Mom! Can we go now?!

6. I love my first Halloween Mantel in our new house. It's pretty sparce but the cotton was picked at a neighboring farm. Wish I had video of the Mister pulling it for me. I turned the pumpkins around today since Halloween is over.

7. I love the look of all white pumpkins. They're all over the place again this year. Trying to decide if I want to paint mine or keep them orange. For now I'm leaning towards orange, all the fall colors may not match my decor but I love the feelings they inspire.

8. This is the first year I've really had to rake leaves, our house is surrounded by tons of trees. So pretty in the spring and summer but a mess during the fall. We need to hire someone to come clean out the gutters because we can't get on top of the roof with our extension ladder. Annoying, but the kids have had so much fun playing in the big piles and I've enjoyed raking them up. I'm weird.

9. I pile. Papers, clothes, kids things. I put things in piles. Horrible trait but I can't seem to break it. Was just going through one of my said piles and realized the tags expired on my car. In September. Oopsie.

10. I started singing Christmas Carols yesterday. I know, The Mister wanted to pull out the duct tape too.

11. I heard a statistic today. For every piece of Halloween candy that your child eats, you'll eat two. Fabulous.

12. I'm in lust. I look from afar and wonder what it would feel like to act on that lust. I dream about the object of my lust. I've spoken openly with The Mister about my lust. I may need to join a twelve step program. I'm in lust.....with. a. sofa.

Giving Thanks: Day 1

Today I'm so thankful for a fantastic Mother's Day Out program where my kids feel safe, happy and loved. We couldn't have asked for better teachers or a better program. Both kids are blossoming socially and learning new things every time they go to school. All that, and it's only about 5 minutes from the house. Good stuff.

Sadness

I have a friend who was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor the size of a tennis ball. To make matters worse, no medical insurance due to the economy and job loss. If you're the praying type, Margie could sure use a few prayers right now and so could her husband and son.

Thank you friends and family.

15 Minutes

A couple girlfriends and I were in the online section of our local newpaper a few weeks ago. That plus mine and Ryan's TV interview at a local event might just be my 15 minutes of fame.

http://boroparty.dnj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=D4&Dato=20100830&Kategori=BOROPARTY08&Lopenr=8300809&Ref=PH

For some reason the link takes you to the beginning of the photo gallery. We're picture 31.

Budding Artist

Makenna is getting so big! She loves to color and paint and recently she's begun drawing her own masterpieces. She started with faces about a week ago and then added body parts this week. This is her first self portrait. A friend said she's reaching for the stars.

Another Bento

I'm having so much fun with the kids lunches this year. Not only is it instant gratification and fun to create something cute, I'm getting lots of external motivation from kids and teachers alike! Eli's teacher told me today that she can't wait for lunch time to open his box and see what cute lunch I've packed that day. Ryan's picked lunch from home over school lunch all but a couple times this year and Makenna oohs and ahhhs over her lunch every time I pack one for her. Fun, a quick creative outlet for me, helps the kids eat healthier, probably cheaper and definitely less wasteful. It's a win/win for all involved, yay!

By the way, the lunch above has a turkey and cheese butterfly sandwich on whole grain bread, ants on a log, grapes and blueberries, homemade zucchini lemon mini muffin and on the right a flower composed of a pickle stem, green pepper leaves and silicone flower cup filled with cheddar bunnies. I needed something to keep the wet fruit away from dry sandwich and muffin so a piece of parchment paper did the trick.

Bentos

Bento Boxes are one of my newer joys in life. I bought some snack and lunch boxes last spring and we've been working towards waste free lunches and snacks ever since. The lunch boxes I bought, Ryan loves. They're a little big and cumbersome for the other two so I've been trying out different containers for their lunches. One that I like is this Sistema box. Just right for a little snack which is what we needed today.
Both kids got "sushi rolls", a babybel cheese, grapes and carrots. The fruit and veggies are separated from the sushi rolls by a little silicone cup and layered with the babybel cheese. The sushi rolls are just a piece of wheat bread, rolled flat and smeared with blackberry jam, then rolled like sushi. Makenna loved them! I have to admit, I think they're pretty cute too. If your snack looked like that, wouldn't you want to eat it?

Making a House a Home

Our new house is so pretty. Big open rooms, lots of space to play and cook and dance and whatever else our hearts desire. The decor doesn't do it justice. We moved in just over four months ago and basically brought the stuff from our old house to our new house, with a few additions. None of the rooms have a plan or a color scheme yet. I can't wait to start putting together idea boards for each room in the house. Decorating, painting, building, repurposing and making our new house into our HOME is how I plan to spend the next nine months. I have 10 hours a week when all my kids are in school. I'm going to be selfish with that time and use it to do something I love. If I can grow a baby in nine months, certainly I can grow a home!

5 years

Don't know when it started, but at some point over the last few years I fell into the trap of looking at the world through a pessimists eyes. I'd get frustrated because I was just a stay at home mom, when I should have been thinking about how wonderful it was that I got to be home with my kids. I'd beat myself up for quitting school and being no closer to living my dream. Then I'd remember I'm already living my dream. Sure, some freelance design work would be awesome but that would be the icing on the cake not the whole cake. I'm done with that way of thinking. The days of beating myself up, not recognizing my achievements and rewards, never thinking I'm doing enough and always trying to make everyone else happy are over. I'm done listening to the little comments from well intended people asking when I'm going to go back to work and what exactly I'm going to do.

I am so blessed. I have a great husband who I've spent the last 17 years with. We've been sooo sooo blessed with our three beautiful kids. We have great extended family and great friends near and far. My life is so awesome, I'm doing it a disservice by looking at it through pessimism and letting self doubts get me down.

Approximately 8 years ago, the Mister and I sat down and wrote up a 5 year plan. It's one of the best things we've done. It's time for me, and us, to do that again. I want the next 5 years to be incredibly full of things and people that I love. Instead of sitting by and watching as years slip by it's time to grab ahold of time and make it work for me!

Things that are important to me right now:

*nurturing relationships with those I love...husband, kids, family and friends

*creating an environment in my home that makes my family want to be home and fits their personalities

*finding a church we can call home and being more than just Sunday attenders

*finding out who I am, other than mommy and wife

*finding an enjoyment in exercise and incorporating it into all our lives on a daily basis

*food! I'm discovering joy in bento boxing the kids lunches and am starting to cook more. Cooking always takes a dive after having a baby, we're finally getting to a place where it's a bit more feasible.

God, Family (including my friends who are chosen family) and Home...that about sums up what's important to me now and I don't see those priorities changing over the next five years.

With that in mind it's time to put pen to paper and write my plan. Can't wait to get started!

I'm mobile! Have I mentioned how much I love my iPhone?!

Drowning

Warning, whining and feeling sorry for myself so you might want to skip this one.

Ever feel like there's just too much to do...be...accomplish...etc. I feel that way so much lately. I thought moving and having more space would help. While I appreciate more space and I know the kids to do, it's also a lot of work right now. We still have a couple boxes in the house and the garage is full. The blank walls glare at me, the lack of furniture is frustrating and the flat paint and little handsprints...don't even get me started. I have so many ideas in my head of things I want to do and can't get to any of them, let alone other daily tasks. I have a to do list a mile long and things are constantly falling through the cracks. We worked so hard to have kids, wanted them so much, they are the best things in my life, and hands down, the hardest. I can barely find a moment in the day where no one is fighting, crying, asking me for a snack, a drink, some toy they've seen an ad for, to play with friends, go out for a treat, etc. I find myself losing my patience and yelling because I'm just so tired of the crying and fighting. I want to hole up in my bedroom, lock the door and just let them battle it out. A couple months ago I started the process of trying to work from home on a very small scale. I'm really not sure how I thought I could make that happen, especially now that it's summer and all kids are home every day. I feel like I'm failing them and myself. We've been home for the past few days because we've all been sick. Too many days all together in the house = bored and restless kids and a frustrated mommy. These are the times when I really question my decision not to work. I would give anything right now to be able to drop them all at daycare and go deal with adults. I feel like I'm drowning and becoming a shadow of the person I was meant to be. More invisible as each day passes. I'm sure I'll be better tomorrow, but this mommy thing with three kids at two very different stages is hard. I know 10 years from now I'll look back and miss these days. Right now though, in the heat of crying and fighting, I'm just trying not to cry myself.

Budding Decorator?

My sweet, beautiful, wonderful daughter decided to decorate her brothers room today... With elmers glue and broken goldfish sprinkled over his entire floor and rug. How long should she be in timeout? I'm leaning towards a solid week.

Happy St. Patty's Day!

Our little Leprechaun says Happy St. Patrick's Day! One of my favorite holidays of the year, but come on, who really needs a reason to wear green? We started yesterday in green because it was "green day" at Makenna's school. Somehow dressing her in green trickled down to Eli, it's a good thing they have more green to wear today!

On to other topics, it's been a BUSY month! Our house went on the market the first week in March, and we got an offer a couple days ago. After a counteroffer, and another...we have a signed contract and will close on our house mid April! We sold our house in TWELVE days, people! We've felt a space crunch since having Eli and the other two getting bigger and now it looks like we'll be leaving for bigger (not neccessarily greener, since we love this house) pastures. On that note, we put in an offer on a foreclosure yesterday. We're anxiously awaiting news of that, and if accepted we'll anxiously await the inspection. The house hasn't been lived in for a few months, so I just want to be sure everything is in good condition. The house is almost twice as big as our current place with all the rooms we wanted, ie four bedrooms, bonus, office, open living area. It's very vanilla and will need LOTS of color, but I think we're up for the task. We looked at 13 houses and countless others online and this was the only one we really liked, so I'm really hoping the offer is accepted and all goes well. What a ride this has been! It's encouraged me to pursue staging as a career choice, and pulled me out of my comfort zone as I talked with loan managers and interviewed agents. I was determined to have a good experience selling and buying and so far it's been great! Much different than our first house in Castle Rock.

In other news, I'm really considering becoming a consultant for Beauticontrol. It's a skincare/makeup/bath and body company that does in home spa parties. I've been using their skin care products for almost two months and have really seen a difference in my skin. As someone who didn't grow up using skin care products, this is a little out of the box for me, but I think it would be a fun way to get out of the house a bit, make a few bucks and get some sales experience and community connections. My ultimate goal is a staging business and I think this could be a stepping stone to that, along with having a lasting effect on my skin! Sounds like a win/win situation.

Finally, Eli took his first steps just a couple days ago! Wayne was videoing him riding the little horse that Grandma and Grandpa gave Makenna for her first birthday. Anyway, he slid off the back and just walked across the room! We couldn't believe how steady he was, and that we got it on camera! Just another reason I love the iPhone.

Kids are waking up so it's time for another busy day. Hope you all enjoy your St. Patty's day, I think we'll make some Irish Soda Bread this morning to celebrate. Wonder if we'll get any visitors this year? If you recall a little leprechaun came to visit last year and left green footprints all over my kitchen...

Wordless Wednesday

Tuesday Twelve

1. Makenna says "Nice to eat you." when she meets someone.
2. Eli got another tooth this week, that brings him up to seven.
3. Today is the third snowday in a row. Sadly, the white stuff on the ground is mostly ice and not great for playing in. Can we say cabin fever?
4. I cleaned out my closet this weekend and finally got rid of suits I've been holding onto since my working in an office days. It felt good to let those go, knowing that when I go back to working outside the home I'll purchase new stuff. I also got rid of twelve pairs of shoes and three purses. My closet has so much space now!
5. Hours can just disappear when I'm looking at houses online or driving around neighborhoods.
6. Ryan, despite his newly developing tween attitude, is the Best. Big. Brother. Ever.
7. I still haven't settled on a new name for this blog. I'm either lacking creativity or identity.
8. I'm interviewing realtors. If anyone still reads this blog and has worked with a good one, send their name my way.
9. Six more weeks of winter...sigh.
10. I really want to take a photography class. I have so much trouble getting good pictures of my kids despite taking pictures pretty frequently. Maybe I just need to spend more time editing? Maybe a new camera with a shorter delay.
11. I'm not sure when it happened, but somewhere along the way I developed a deep appreciation for coffee.
12. Ryan and I had a date night last week. We visited a new sub shop in town and then hit up the roller skating rink. His school sponsored the night and I was one of maybe 10 parents that skated. It was SO MUCH FUN! We were there for over two hours and Ryan was asking if we could go back the next day. I think we may be frequenting the skating a rink a bit more often.

New Year, New Name.

You may have noticed my blog name changing. I'm just trying a few on for size. Nothing seems to be just right.

Tuesday Twelve

1. Eli transferred out of our room just three nights ago, he'll be 1 in a week. Never thought I'd have a baby in my room that long.
2. One of my fav songs right now is by Miley Cyrus...gasp. Party in the USA just sucks me in.
3. I'm dreading the next few months. I don't want to deal with all the paperwork and boxes of trying to move, just want to do the househunting and decorating when it happens.
4. I'm exhausted by 8 pm every night. All I want to do is sit on the couch and veg. Sometimes that happens but it usually doesn't.
5. I love cake and homemade cookies...way better than chocolate or ice cream.
6. My kids have gotten the smackdown on tv, they'd been watching too much during the holidays and bitter cold temps. Ryan told me he was having fun imagining yesterday, warmed my heart.
7. I secretly worry that Makenna is going to be bigger than both my boys and will struggle with that.
8. I had a dream about people from high school last night...I think fb is to blame.
9. I'm consantly late these days. A trait that I despised, I now exhibit daily.
10. Going from 2-3 kids has been the hardest transition for us. Maybe because we didn't have years to prepare for this one?
11. I'm so happy our Christmas decorations are down. While I miss the ambient light, I don't miss all the clutter.
12. I've become such a procrastinator and really need to work on getting better about that

New Year, New You?

Holy Cow, it's 2010! I have a good feeling about the year ahead and am hoping it's good to all those I love. I haven't made many resolutions this year, but my focus for the year is strength. Strength of faith, strength of body, strength of finances and strength of self worth. 2009 was a hard year. A few close relationships faltered, I found myself consumed by all things kid related, I struggled with body image due to remaining pregnancy pounds and wanted more time for the things that made me (and only me) happy.

The highlights of the year were:

• giving birth to a sweet, sweet boy!
• forgiving a friend and finding out how much fun we could have together again
• remembering just what made me fall in love with my husband and continually recognizing what an awesome life partner he is
• spending time with lots of family and being reminded, yet again, of what a giving and loving mom I have
• enjoying a blossoming lifelong friendship
• And, of course, watching my kids grow and change and amaze me daily

I'm really looking forward to the year ahead. We have some exciting things on the horizon as a family and there are a few things just for me coming up too. 2010 is going to be a good year!