Tuesday Twelve

1.  Today is my Dad and Step Mom's Silver Wedding Anniversary!  They seem happier now than they did when they got married.  Twenty five years and better than ever.  That's full of Awesome in my book and definitely something to be celebrated!  My brother and I splurged on a gift certificate for a B&B.  Much deserved by them, hope they have a fabulous time.

2.  We went to see Tangled yesterday for Makenna's birthday.  It was a really cute movie and enjoyed by all.  Even better, it appears we're entering a new chapter in life because Eli sat through the entire thing!

3.  The older two have been hit with a stomach bug that just won't quit.  They seem to have different versions of it, one is puking the other has "pee poop".  REALLY hoping they get better and we get to enjoy the couple days of winter break that are left.

4.  Due to the aforementioned tummy bugs, we had to cancel New Year's Eve plans and a much anticipated date night.  Really bummed that we missed both those things, but we didn't have hangovers on New Year's Day and didn't spend a bunch of money on a babysitter and a dinner out.  Silver Linings.

5.  I found an insulated plastic (BPA free) tumbler with straw on clearance a few days ago.  The kids have taken over my water bottles and I like drinking out of a straw so I bought one.  LOVE it.  I'd fallen off the water wagon, but I think I'm firmly back on again thanks to my new tumbler.

6.  I almost just typed sippy cup instead of tumbler.  Sigh.

7.  Christmas decorations have all come down and I have a new found motivation to decorate.  Surprised?  No, me either.  I have 5 pages of lists regarding the decorating process and this house.  Time to get crackin!

8.  I got a Compound Miter Saw and air compressor for Christmas.  Be still my heart!  I see trim, molding, board and batten and built ins in my future.

9.  Today is The Mister's first real day back at work in two weeks.  He worked a couple days last week but they don't count because most people were out so it wasn't as stressful.  Hoping today isn't as rough on him as I think it might be.

10.  I know people always think it's going to be a good year, but this one feels like it will bring some positive change with it.  I'm looking forward to what the months ahead hold.

11.  Workers have been out clearing a plot of land across the street from us.  With any luck we'll have some new neighbors this year, and fingers crossed they'll have kids similar ages to ours!

12.  The birthday cake in the fridge is calling my name.  Ryan had a piece after lunch and it took all my will power not to have one too.  I had two bites...enough to satisfy the desire at the time, but now I want more.  Sugar and carbs are an evil combination.

Guess who's FOUR!!!!

My baby girl turned four this morning!

Four year ago I was puking my guts out due to a reaction to the pain meds after my c-section.  That combined with a spinal headache made for a rough day.  Four years ago, almost to the minute of me typing this, I held my daughter and breast fed her for the first time since right after coming out of surgery.  I'd felt terrible all day and didn't think I had the energy but my mom suggested I try.  What happened next was a testament to the bond between mom and baby.  I almost instantly started feeling better and Makenna, who'd had a scowl on her face all day, was suddenly peaceful and her little forehead wrinkles disappeared.  What we both needed was each other.

That sweet baby has been my little sidekick ever since.  A momma's girl.  A girly girl who loves dresses, purses, shoes and jewelry.  She loves to read and be read to.  She loves her dolls and barbies and is the best little mommy.  She is so creative and loves to draw and paint.  She wants to be a doctor when she grows up.  She thinks about those around her and honestly cares about how they are each day.  Her teachers tell me constantly how smart, polite and sweet she is.  I know all this.  Yes, I'm partial.  Whatev.  This girl of mine, she makes my heart sing.  Then and now.

This morning she woke up and crawled into bed with us.  She wanted a quick cuddle before the day began.  I wasn't ready to get up, so I pulled her close and hoped she'd go back to sleep.  Then I started thinking about her birth day and my mind went back to that first real cuddle and how many we've shared since then.  My scowl disappeared, I hugged my girl close and she rewarded me with a sweet "Mommy, I love you".  Scowls and forehead wrinkles disappeared and we got up to celebrate her special day.

Happy Birthday, Makenna!  Daddy and I love you so much.

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.