The Chicky Momma

Hi

2010-06-26T16:21:00.000-04:00

What can I say it was simply been an eternity! I have moved, but am not done by any means. My lift has been completely turned upside down in good and frightening ways. But I know that God is guiding my path, so I let go of as much as possible and try really hard to enjoy the ride. I have said it a lot lately, We only get to do this (life) one time, make the best choice, choose the right attitude, and do it so you have no regrets! So until next time here is LC in her summer ballet debut! I promise I am back, life is finally getting normal! Even if normal means out of control! I FREAKING LOVE IT!

WOW

2010-02-04T10:46:00.000-05:00

I would have never guessed that moving is this hard! I am loving the nesting part, this house is a blank slate for certain and I am doing all I can to make it have LIFE! I have also been really striving to "shop my house" or shall I say moving boxes to find great things and rethink them. As for now, every project is mid process and there are about 12 going! HA! I am taking pictures, so do not fear there will be a lot of before and after fun and some great tutourials!

Moving

2010-01-26T13:33:00.000-05:00

We are moving, I am terrified, I hate change, but am somehow really excited about the new possibilities a change brings. After several weeks of looking we found a place to rent, so that will be a change, but the landlord seems very flexible. I am not allowed to paint the walls, so I have a lot of creative ideas to bring color to the antique walls of this cute house. I hope you hang around, because I have about 12 projects and re-dos to share as I complete them. Be back around in a day or two, WISH US LUCK!

Guess who is back! A Catch up post!

2010-01-10T02:07:00.001-05:00

Ok so I have been away, but it turned into a CRAZY few weeks. First of all, traveling for Christmas, Parties, New Years, traveling some more, I have been SICK for 2 weeks and well we may be moving! So you can imagine I am a tad distracted. But since the past few weeks are a blur I will use a few pictures to give you a glimpse and remind myself! First up, My DEAR SWEET Great Aunt Bea. She is the only thing I have that remotely resembles a grand-parent as my biological ones have long sense passed. ( when I was a kid) So Aunt Bea has assumed the role, whole-heartedly I might add! She is the best, FUNNIEST lady and I am SO blessed to have her!

So to kick off the season we started with a little party at a friends house! The day LESLEY wore a pull-up for the first time!

TOO FUNNY

She really likes being a big girl

Ok so then we hit the road to go to Augusta, GA the holidays with the in-laws. Up first was a trip to a beautiful light show in east nowhere GA. It was great except for the the temp, 35 degrees, and my lack of preparedness I was wearing LOAFERS! HA!

SO, after the great thaw (the ride home from the light show) I still had to wrap presents. But I had been up for 16 hours, had the day from you know where, and I had frostbite. SO I wasn't as concerned with perfection when wrapping like usual. HA! Here is the photo evidence my husband took while mocking me!

I mean really what are you supposed to do with this...

Wes would normally not mock me, especially when I have scissors at the ready, but I normally mock him mercilessly for his TERRIBLE wrapping skills, so it was his payback.

So then there was Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day, otherwise known aas my 21 month got overwhelmed and we had to call it quits for a while! HA

But once attitudes were better we resumed Christmas!

Notice that face I am making, Not really sure what that is, but I am too lazy to find a better one!

My nephew got a big ole car, and they had more fun riding it Christmas Day!

Lesley showing off the shirt I made her for Christmas dinner. I am still upset I do not have picture of her dressed up from Christmas Eve services, but alas, I have a 21 month old. It is a miracle I remember to put on deodarant.

Ok so home from Augusta, and my darling cousin Audra came to visit. I am a photographer and we are working on some concept work I have and she was a good sport and modeled for me!

BTW Audra "Auab" is Lesley's FAVORITE person EVER!

So new years was totally uneventful as my sickness was starting to kick my butt and Lesley was/ is still cutting cutting 4 teeth! So we hung around the house... I am pretty sure we dont even have a picture. But we enjoyed chinese food, sweet and sour chicken which Lesley named "hiney chicken" God I love this child!

SO, my sickness, well that pretty much gets us current I am still sick. I go through waves of FREEZING and sweltering! Another hubby mocking pic.

Notice I am under the covers, with 2 layers of clothes and a ear warmer, oh and I was sitting in a heating pad!

Then to top off all the sicky fun we got SNOW! Which is SO exciting! I LOVE SNOW!

But we were so sick, hubby tried to go get meds... he didnt have much luck!

So even sick we had to play, there is still snow on the ground 3 days later, and it is COLD OUTSIDE! Thanks for sticking with me for a long post, and I am glad to be back!

Technical Difficulties and a WINNER!!

2009-12-15T13:30:00.000-05:00

SO sorry I haven't announced the winner from the Linky party giveaway, or put up my tour for the Nesters party, but my computer was NOT cooperating yesterday! So with out further ado, the winner of the Magical Moments Pillow is JEN from http://tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/ Thank you to all who linked up and added comments! Jen just visit the shop www.littlechickendesigns.etsy.com and convo me which one you would like and your address and it will ship by Friday! Also, I do plan on still doing a tour, but i have to figure out why by computer isn't reading my camera card!grrr.... Have a great one, be back in a bit!
Lani

My Christmas Wish List

2009-12-13T14:39:00.000-05:00

Ok, so everyone keeps asking me what I want for christmas. It is a really hard answer to give. I really do not need for anything, and frankly there isn't much I want for. What I do tend to want is more expensive and not anything I would dare put on a list. But for myself I thought I would make my wish list. If I could have 5 things under the tree for purely selfish reasons what would they be...

1. $17,000 to have all of the remodel work I want done to our house paid for! (this includes giving me a laundry room that isn't in the basement, where the morons who lived here before me moved it to)

2. A table saw! I have just about every other saw and this would be the PERFECT addition to my tool collection.

3. A new Sewing Machine I have one, and it works well, but I hate it's button hole function!

4. 2 new soft box lights and stand. I love soft box lighting for studio work. Plus I plan to become involved with NILMDTS http://www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org/ this year, and a small one may come in handy.

5. Oh and a serger!

So there is my top 5. I hope to make at least a few of them become a reality very soon.

What about you? Is there anything you would really love to have?

I am officially done decorating!

2009-12-11T23:54:00.000-05:00

SO I couldn't be more excited! I have officially finished my Christmas decorating and thank goodness, because I want to be ready for The Nesters Tour of Homes.
So now I can focus on several of my handmade presents, and finishing my Etsy shopping. I decided for Christmas this year I was going to get most of my gifts from Etsy, or make them, and I have discovered SO many great Etsy stores. SOOO, I am going to start featuring a store once a week! We are such a talented group of crafters, artists, and bloggers, that we deserve a little nod every now and then. If you have an Etsy shop and would like to be considered for a feature let me know! I will start next week and already hae several atores in mind. I think it will be a lot of fun! Make sure to join the Linky party and Giveaway!

Christmas Memory Linky Party and Giveaway!

2009-12-10T02:30:00.001-05:00

I always enjoy linky parties, and who doesn't LOVE a giveaway! SO, I wanted to host a giveaway for Chistmas and make it a Linky Party. To participate you need to blog about your favorite Christmas memory from your childhood and then link it up to MckLinky! Make sure to mention in the post about the giveaway! Up for grabs is a Magical Moments Pillow Letter to Santa Pillow. You will get your choice of pillow to use for one of your own precious children or as a FABULOUS gift! The purpose of the pillow is to help create the magic of the season. For me the magic and wonder of this time of year makes me feel all warm and fuzzy! Also, coming soon, as in once things get a tad less stressful there will be prayer pillows, and tooth fairy pillows. I like the idea of Children writing letters to Christ or to their gaurdian angel. I digress, SO... blog, link it up, and on Monday. Dec 14th I will announce the winner!

http://www.littlechickendesigns.etsy.com/

Tuesdays Unwrapped and Little Chicken Designs GIVEAWAY

2009-12-07T18:51:00.004-05:00

So I have been stressing a ton lately. I have been given so many blessings, that at times I think they may actually be trials. It frightens me to think that God is making me stretch and grow when all I want to do is go back to bed. Change is frightening to me and it has been a VERY interesting 6 months. Then in the midst of some craziness I was given clarity! A friend said "why are you affaid?: sounds an easy enough question to answer right? WRONG! I was dumbfounded. When faced with the facts, that God is in charge, that God is leading this change, that God is all knowing, loving, and merciful, what was I afraid of? That same day I found this:

Don't Worry about anything;

instead, pray about everything. Tell God waht you need and Thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand.His peace will gaurd your minds and hearts as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

I LOVE that our Lord "speaks" to us when we need to hear him. I love that we guides us to his words over and over again. I love that our Lord gently reminds us. It makes me try so hard as a parent to guide gently.

In the spirit of blessings and giving I wanted to give, and I hope that in giving something made be me through blessings, you are blessed!

I wanted to host a giveaway for Chistmas! To participate you need to blog about your favorite Christmas memory from your childhood and then link it up to MckLinky! Make sure to mention in the post about the giveaway! Up for grabs is a Magical Moments Pillow Letter to Santa Pillow. You will get your choice of pillow to use for one of your own precious children or as a FABULOUS gift! The purpose of the pillow is to help create the magic of the season. For me the magic and wonder of this time of year makes me feel all warm and fuzzy! Also, coming soon, as in once things get a tad less stressful there will be prayer pillows, and tooth fairy pillows. I like the idea of Children writing letters to Christ or to their gaurdian angel. I digress, SO... blog, link it up, and on Saturday Dec. 12th I will draw the winner!

Busy Bee

2009-12-07T17:30:00.000-05:00

Good Gracious I am busy! I am almost done puttin gup my tree and decorations. I am also almost done sewing for the year. I have almost started Lesley's new play room! OMG I can't wait to show it to you.

I mean to post everyday, I come up with great things, then when it comes time, I can't remember a thing! So I have decided that instead of keeping a pad of paper and pen with me at all times (because I enevitably lose the pen) I will start carrying a micro recorder with me to record what I am thinking... wonder if it will help? HA! Anyway, I have makign ornaments and all sorts of presents, and I hope to have time to show it all to you in the next few days so stay tuned.

PS: the bathroom redo that I started like 6 months ago is finally done! Will have pics up this week.

procrastination

2009-11-17T22:20:00.000-05:00

So I am in the studio tonight with about 8 orders that are due out this weekend staring me in the face, and I am procrastinating. I can't get my embroidery machine to cooperate, and my sewing machine bobbin keeps balling up on me, needless to say I am frusterated. But, not nearly as frusterated as I would be if I didnt have my ever present play list keeping my favorite tunes playing to keep me mellow. I am really enjoying a few new artists I discovered a few weeks ago, Anya Marina, Keri Noble, John McLaughlin, and Nick Drake (who many people may have already known) I just discovered. So what keeps you sane when everything is falling apart?
Oh an I am SO EXCITED about NEW MOON! I can barely stand myself right now!

LONG WEEKEND!

2009-11-09T00:30:00.000-05:00

But man was it good!! Saturday I went garage saleing and found SOME AWESOME stuff! I can't wait to take pics tomorrow and show you all what I plan on doing with all of it. Saturday afternoon I had a senior session then today we spent the ENTIRE day with our best friends. It is three couples, we have all been friends for close to 8 years! I am exhausted! We have such an exciting week ahead, I can't wait to get it started. OH and I will have my tour of my work room this week as well! Have a great night!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-11-04T09:39:00.000-05:00

Helping Hand

My Father

2009-11-03T23:49:00.000-05:00

As I was preparing to write this tonight I was hit with wonder and awe, I have had several things relate back to a single idea all day. The idea that God gives and takes away. The thought that strikes me is that you never know when either will be a blessing. So then, as I was logging in to write this post, (I detoured to Faccebook) the peice that ties it all together was in front of me. I friend who is a flight attendant posted
"God blesses those people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him" James 1:12
she was refrencing the fact that she is working 3 legs tonight with cranky people. LOL! Then, I read the post of another friend. Her cousin lost a son today. She had BG twins, and while at daycare the boy was put down for a nap, and no one noticed that he didnt wake up. God gives and takes away. Why? What is his reason? i have fought these thoughts so much over the last few months, to the point of depression. Then about 2 months ago I realized the trial can also be a blessing. Now I am not saying that losing a child is a blessing, but I was illustrating how precious life is, and how we must always lean on Him and ultimately not ask why? but what is God trying to tell, teach, show me?
I should probably give you some back story. My family has had a very rough few months. Back in May my husband lost his job, he was encouraged to resign, as it looks better on your teaching record apparently. Well this also meant, we later found out that he forfeited his unemplyoment.... they failed to tell him that. Then, we were living off our savings, and the money was literaly GONE! My family was going on vacation, and my parents paid our way, a humbling moment honestly, but appreciated. It was one of the most amazing 10 days of my life. My entire family was there, and we laughed more and loved more, and worshippe our Lord more than I can honeslty ever remember. We then returned home to discover that while we were away our hot water heater had burst and flooded our basement ruinign alot of our things. But it was all things that were relegated to the garage sale pile or Goodwill. So I wasn't TOO upset. But, it was VERY stressful. Mold was growing, our hot water heater had to be replaced, it wasnt to code apparently and that was an extra $2200.... GREAT!!!!!! Then we remembered we had purchased American Home Shield a few months ago on a whim... they paid $1100 for towards the water heater (not the code stuff though) Well we worked things out with our insurance company and they said make a detailed account of everything damamged or lost so we can cut you a check so you can replace them. I had forgotten that we carry FULL REPLACEMENT on our home and its contents! So we are receiving a sum that will be enough to continue to carry our family for a few more months. SO... i started thinking, when has something REALLY stressful been a blessing.
1. Diagnosis of Stage 4 endo, 3 months later I was PREGNANT!
2. My first mothers day, holding an 8 week old, our home was hit by a Tornado. $35,000 check MORE than covered the damage, new roof, new deck, fresh paint, fresh EVERYTHING. On an aging house we were going to have to really save to try and fix up!
3. Wes is laid off from a job, no income, gets in to Grad School, mostly because of reputation and favor, gets GRANT money to help us pay bills and for school, finds out it is 99% online and otherwise he gets to stay home and be with me and our daughter.
4. The Worst moment of my life. I awoke to find my daughter unresponsive and not breathing. She was twitching, I began CPR. about 15 minutes later she was out of the woods. Now you are thinking how is this a blessing. Well it is a blessing that I remembered CPR I was taught 10 years ago. It is a blessing she happened to be in our bed or we would have not found her until morning and it would have been too late. it was a blessing that I got a wake up call to spend more time with her, pay closer attention to her, because it could be gone too quickly, and even if we are only speaking of her youth, I will miss this stage when it is gone, so I better pay attention now.

So I ask you when has something really stressful, been a blessing. When have you been patienty tested? Also, I am working on an idea of paying it forward if you will. I want to be a blessing in others lives, I want to do something where we create a top ten needs list, and a top ten wants list, and see if through miracles and blessings we can't help others meet some of their needs and wants.
Anyway, if you are still with me thanks, and enjoy this... i found it today too... all signs pointing to one idea!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUtFV127i-s&feature=player_embedded

A Resolution

2009-11-03T13:39:00.000-05:00

So again it has been months! I am still reclaiming my life and with several set backs, we are finally getting there. We have been having some of the best and worst weather, so that has created obstacles. The biggest however has been our garage/basement. Our hot water heater burst, and $10,000 of damage later we are trying to rebuild. But enough about why I havent been around. I am here to say that I AM going to do better. I need this resource and outlet. I need to know there is a place where I can just say what I feel when I feel it and know that it isn't a big deal. So from here on out I will be open, honest, and hopefully insightful. I have done SO many projects that I need to share with you, so many ideas, SO many things that I barely know where to start! But I will start and it will be tonight!

Hello is anyone there?

2009-08-13T03:17:00.003-04:00

Ok so I realize it has been months! LOL, but I have a good excuse. Life sort of went in fast forward, and out of nowhere it is the middle of August and I am about to have surgery. I have also spent the majority of the summer "claiming" my house. We moved in here in March of 06, we spent the next 5 months graduating college, getting married, and starting new jobs. Within a year I was pregnant and on bed rest quite a bit, then you know I had a baby, our home was hit by a tornadoe, and needless to say I got busy! So here I am 3 years later and finally making my house my home! We are re doing the yard, the kitchen, both bathrooms, and soon enough the garage/basement will be partially closed in (fingers crossed.) oh and my photography business is doing well, and I am slowly but surely designing precious childrens clothes. Anyway, so there you have it. I promise to have pictures up soon.

Feature Friday

2009-05-01T14:54:00.005-04:00

Welcome to the first installment of Feature Friday!
Today I am featuring a very talented and witty woman. Nikki from The Lucky Mrs.T! http://www.theluckymrst.com/ I have to admit up front that I am somewhat biased because this fantastic gal is my cousin. But more importantly she is FUN. She is a very strong Christian, a talented artist, a supportive wife, and fur baby momma to Daisy. Nikki is always changing things up and you will never know what to expect when visiting. Her Birthday is tomorrow and she and Jonathan (my favorite new cousin) will celebrate their first wedding anniversary in 9 short days! So don’t just take my word for it go check her out. She is great and I am blessed not only to know her in real life, but for her to be an amazing member of my family. Love you Cuz!

Monday Music Musings

2009-04-27T19:15:00.004-04:00

WELCOME to Monday Music Musings. So I have decided that (hopefully) every Monday I will share with you music, be it an album, and artist, or just a song it will be music related. I know that I always love discovering new musicians, so I thought I would make a point to broaden my horizons and share what I find.

Today.... I want to tell you about Jack's Mannequin. WOW! I am in love! To start with both of their albums are fantastic. I love the piano and somewhat raw quality to the vocals. "The Glass Passenger" is the groups second album it chronicles McMahon's battle against Leukemia. It is raw, honest, and emotionally charged. There are several songs that are darker and some that are very up tempo but no matter the sound, the emotions of fear, fatigue, and ultimately survival are poignant! I for one have found the "The Resolution" is likely my new favorite song. With lyrics like "And I'm alive And I don't need a witness To know that I survived I'm not looking for forgiveness I just need light I need light in the dark as I search for the resolution" I feel that I am being let into a very personal place. I think what is so awesome about "The Glass Passenger" is it is personal. Most music isn't, and often it really has no significant meaning... that can't be said about this album. So check it out! Here is the website http://www.jacksmannequin.com/ all of their work is available on Itunes as well! I hope you enjoy!

Care to come along?

2009-04-18T23:50:00.002-04:00

So it has been a week and I am sure most of you have grown used to my random absences. I do apologize though; I wish I was better at blogging. I just feel I have nothing worth hearing. Therein lies the problem. I think a problem a lot of moms have and why so many of us have turned to blogging. We don’t really think what we have to say is too important, but we hope that someone will think that what we say matters. I have had a rough week, not like lately, no deaths in the family or natural disasters, but emotionally. I realized I missed “ME” the old me. The “me” before I was a mother, the “me” that read A LOT! The “me” that traveled, went to museums regularly, sought out new music, and tried anything new at least once. That version of me was confident, contemplative, intellectual and informed. I realized this week that I do not love this new not improved version of myself. Not in the sense that I am like an insecure teenager but more a person who just woke up and realized they were on the wrong track. Maybe this all sounds crazy, I am sure it does, but just maybe you too have had a moment when you realized you are changing and not for the better. Don’t get me wrong I love being a mom, but who said that I can’t be the old version of myself and still a mother? I think the old Lani is actually better suited to be a mother than this current version. So I guess my point is I am getting back to me. So be prepared for more blogs, more information about the world, things that inspire me, things that make me look at the world in new ways, and things that simply entertain me. I hope you are willing to join me.

Since 12 is my lucky number...

2009-04-11T21:48:00.003-04:00

and that is how many FOLLOWERS I have now I thought I would share with you publically what several of you already now. I decided to start designing a childrens clothing line. This has always been something I wanted to do, and i had talked about it with a friend a while ago, then I decided "what am I waiting for?" I have so many ideas so I got started. I began designing, buying supplies, and equiptment, and prepapring. I set up a blog, (very soon to be a .com) I set up my Etsy shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7128932, my paypal, and ordered my clothing labels. Well, then to my complete excitement my friend whom I had previously discussed this all with expressed her desire to do it with me!!!! You cant know how excited this makes me. Lindsey, http://www.thelifeofmrslanghans.blogspot.com/, is one of my very best friends. She is someone that God seriously made just for me! I couldn't ask for a better friend and I am so excited for her to join me. She is so talented and I know that together you are going to just LOVE what we create. Our first few lines have already been designed and soon enough I will be sharing them all with you. So Since 12 is my lucky number I hope that my 12 followers will bring me amazing luck and success!

Ya'll Gotta Check This Out

2009-04-11T20:09:00.004-04:00

Ladies you MUST go check out this giveaway! CHOCOLATE, Handbags, I mean need I say more! It's Mama Loco's 100th post giveaway and she is going to SPOIL someone!
http://mama-loco.blogspot.com/2009/04/100th-post-giveaway.html

Some Before and After Fun

2009-04-06T01:58:00.002-04:00

I recently had the fun of finally convincing my sister to let me dress up her patio! it was in DESPERATE need and she was very resistant to "bother" with it. Well I convinced her and she gave me a budget of $80 so with that I did this! We got the seat cushions from Ross, and the curtains are just canvas drop clothes. She lives directly behind a grocery store and now you wouldn't notice much less care the patio is so comfortable. Check it out!
EDITED: My sister "claims" she doesnt have the before pictures, likely story I wouldn't want anyone to see the before either! HA!

What makes you angry?

2009-04-06T01:02:00.000-04:00

So I have decided to join in a little linky fun. Stop by Kasey's Blog if you would like to join in. http://kaseyhelder.blogspot.com/

Today's task: 5 things that just really get you fuzzed up (that means makes you mad)

1. People who do not own their issues. Be honest with yourself and everyone else. Own your actions. If your not willing to own up to something then dont do it!

2. This may sound trivial, but it makes me angry, or I should say irritated when people call my daughter a boy. I realize she has no hair, but seriously she is in PINK! Are you blind?? and NO I wont tape/glue/use toothpaste/ whatever else you crazy people suggest just to put a bow on her head. I realize it would make it easier for you strangers to know she is a girl, but I dont want to make her mad!

3. Poor service at restaurants. I realize your job is not the most fun, I know because I was there. I did your job for 2 years. And since I know hoe to do your job, I know just how Lazy your being! Trust me when service is bad because the hostess just triple sat you I will be TOTALLY patient... but I dont enjoy cold food or no beverage because you are too busy texting to do your job!

4. Dust Bunnies... I can literally handle mess, clutter, you name it. But I hate dust bunnies. I have two large dogs so I feel I am always at war with dust bunnies, and I dont think i will ever win the battle.

5. It really gets under my skin when people are negative. I understand we all have our days, and being moody is ok every now and then, but people who in general are negative really get under my skin. And it can be hard to be positive when things aren't going the best but there are always things to be thankful for and being thankful leads to being Positive! I just want to shake them and say "BE THANKFUL" I have had a REALLY rough years, but who cares? I dont want to spend my days being upset about it, I would rather be greatful for today and the gifts it will bring. BE THANKFUL for breathing, for a day without pain, for being able to eat, for having to many pajamas, for a bautiful, hysterical daughter ( or apparently son HA!) she is the most precious creation did I mention she always crosses her anklesLOL TOO CUTE, an amazing husband (who I could make another top 5 list for but wont) a family that is SO close, friends that God brilliantly blessed me with. You get the point Dont be negative.... be THANKFUL.

Been busy for recovery

2009-04-05T14:29:00.002-04:00

So I have been feeling ok. The past few days I have had a window of feeling pretty normal. So yesterday I spent that time with some old friends. It was Founders Day for my husbands Fraternity Kappa Sigma. But it wasn't just the guys it was thier families. It was SUCH a great day. They all got to meet Little Miss Lesley and couldnt get enough of her. We got to meet several of the guys new babies. It is so cool to have friends like we do. Yesterday was special for several reasons but one of the main reasons was that it was the last day event at the fraternity house. The university has built a greek row and as of August the fraternity will be moving. We got to go on a tour of the new house, and it will be NICE!!! but the best part of the day was doing what we did best hanging on the porch! I will attach some pics once I feel up to getting on my desktop. This is my bad part of the day so for now on the couch with my laptop is all your getting. HA!

Recovery

2009-03-27T11:01:00.000-04:00

Here I sit recovering from sinus surgery and a tonsilectomy and I know you are all thinking dang I wish I could be that cool. Well I hate to break it to you... its kind of hard to pull this level of cool off. See I have bed-head, cotton balls up my noes a "drip pad" taped to my face under my nose, and have to "breathe" with my mouth wide open and choke just to drink. Ok SO now you tell me how COOL you have been and we will see just who is the coolest chick. I'll post a picture later once the codine has kicked in and all inhabitions go out the door.

11 days

2009-03-22T22:27:00.000-04:00

Yes I know it has been 11 days since my last post. I do apologize, but I have valid reasons for my absense. In the past 11 days I have worked, found out for certain that I have to have surgery, scheduled my surgery, dog sat and completely crate and manners trained an unruly beagle and lost 2 members of my family. PHEW! It makes me tired thinking back over it all. I lost 2 uncles, one from each side of my family. Both very dear to me. I am not quite ready to talk about them, but I probably will be soon. I have to get through the next few days first. I have all day tomorrow to prepare for my surgery. Tuesday I have 3 pre-op appointments, Wednesday I will travel to Birmingham, AL for my uncle's funeral, and Thursday travel home to have surgery. Needless to say I am stressed to the max, emotional, and anxious. I am just getting over the shocking passing of my other uncle 9 days ago. Anyway, I will definately be accpeting prayers over the next few days for emotional and physical healing. Ok so now I am off to do laundry, I have probably 7 loads to do before Tuesday.... yuck!

Birthday Celebrations

2009-03-11T15:21:00.000-04:00

Ok So I have been under the weather so to speak! I have strep, or had whatever penecilan is taking care of business, but now because it is SO beautiful here is GA, my allergies are acting up! Strep throat and allergies can a girl catch a break. Anyway, that is the reason this post is so embarrassingly late. I wanted to share with you the birthday pictures from my sweet angels birthday.

My Sweet Baby Girl

2009-03-06T22:30:00.000-05:00

OK So today (3/6) my baby girl turned 1! I can't even begin to imagine how this happened... I mean where has the time gone. I never realized my life was on fast forward! So in honor of my miracle, I wanted to share a few then and now pictures of Lesley Claire.

PS: SO I have been trying to get this to post since yesterday and blogger has been giving my fits!

Another Great Giveaway and Series!

2009-03-04T01:22:00.000-05:00

http://reinventedkb.blogspot.com/2009/03/trash-to-treasure-series-and-giveaway.html
So you must go check this out. I am a strong believer in repurposing things and what a better idea than to blog about it! Kimm is also hosting a giveaway!!! Check it out!

CHECK OUT THE GIVEAWAY!!

2009-03-02T23:29:00.000-05:00

MY IRL Best Friend is having a GREAT Giveaway! Check it out, but dont enter cause I want to win K? J/K Enter away or better yet go but great stuff from Etsy!
http://thelifeofmrslanghans.blogspot.com/2009/03/giveaway.html

2009-03-01T01:46:00.001-05:00

My dad is in the emergency room. His BP is only up to 113/70 NOT NORMAL! We need prayers please. more later

What's Been Going On...

2009-02-24T16:56:00.000-05:00

Well I woke up this morning with a KILLER migraine. I am not sure what brought it on but next came the vertigo. Thank goodness my husband was able to come home and help me. I was unable to even stand without losing my balance. He got me in bed and then gave me all of my very strong medicine for the migraines and vertigo. I was out like a light, and have honestly been in a fog the rest of the day. I did however this afternoon do some work. I am about an hour from finishing my bathroom remodel. I AM SO EXCITED! I wanted to put up some before and during pictures. So here is the before, I know it is terrible. I ahve hated these floors ever since we purchased the house but never have changed them, so Instead I decided a more inexspnsive option would be to chage the decore.

Here the paneling is up and the walls are painted.

Here is the begining of painting. Let me tell you, it took 6 coats of paint!! And here is the handy tool I made for painting behind the toilet. I know you can just undo the toilet and move it, but seriously no thanks! I just used a peice of craft wood, a ruler would work too, a peice of foam, and painters tape to hold it on! Yea me for figuring it out and not taking my toilet apart.

Ok So I will post the after pictures as soon as it is 100% Probably tomorrow... stay tuned!

Where has the time gone?

2009-02-22T21:16:00.000-05:00

I swear I have thought about blogging in the past few days, but there just hasn't been the time. I have been sick, but am feeling better now thank goodness!!! Lesley is getting bigger by the minutes and it seriously takes my breath away. She is such a cool little kid and she is mine... I am pretty lucky! Her FAVORITE thing to do is read "boos" She has been expanding her focabulary like wildfire. She now says, Mama, Dada, Dogs, Bless You, Baby, Various names, Books, Juice, Nurse, Paci, Chick, Turtle, Duck. Chick, Turtle and Duck she added today! Oh and Nose... I have been SO many project the past two weeks, so keep an eye out over the next few days for alot of before and afters.

Just to make the announcement The Magic Brush, http://themagicbrushinc.blogspot.com/, won a $25 gift card of her choice for winning my contest and Claire, http://soldierprincessandme.blogspot.com/, won the giveaway! I will be sending out thier gifts this week, I hope they love them! Ok so I am off for now. Gotta go finish up some medicine and go to bed! I need my beauty sleep you know.

Prayer Warriors Needed

2009-02-11T21:54:00.000-05:00

We need prayers friends. My friends sister is in need of prayers tonight. Kelly Mize is in the hospital in Florida fighting a scary battle. Out of no where Kelly an otherwise healthy 21 year old became very ill. They have done many tests only to have no answers. Her body is not producing red blood cells tomorrow she faces bone marrow testing to try and further determine her condition. The doctors are thinking possibly aplastic anemia. Ladies I know this prayer request will spread quickly and I trust all of the prayer warriors to answer the call. Ladies, please pray that our ultimate healer heal Kelly, pray that he guides the hands of her doctors and that she is healed. God is miraculous and I know that he can and will heal Kelly. Ladies please join me in lifting Kelly up without yielding until she is healed!

Simple Womans Daybook

2009-02-02T09:44:00.000-05:00

Join the fun!! http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/2009/02/simple-womans-daybookfebruary-2nd.html

FOR TODAY Feb 2...

Outside my window... It is a cool and balmy day

I am thinking... of my contest and giveaway I am hosting... Its my first so I am really excited.

I am thankful for... showers... they just make you feek alive no matter how little sleep you have gotten

From the kitchen... nothing is happening... i need to go put the roast in though

I am wearing... Pj pants and a big T-shirt

I am creating... So many wonderful sewing creation! and designing new furniture to build

I am going... to the ENT today, here's hoping for relief

I am reading... nothing I am in between but I will be picking up an old favorite today Fried Green Tomatoes at The Whistle Stop Cafe

I am hoping... to get some sleep tonight... my little angle liek to get up and play in the middle of the night

I am hearing... my silly daughter babbling

Around the house... we are still in construction mode so its a mess

One of my favorite things... sweet kisses from my dogs

A few plans for the rest of the week: Sew, build a table, play more in the floor with Lesley and my fur babies Hannah and Fiona, and SLEEP!

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Decorate My Roost

2009-01-29T15:37:00.000-05:00

Ok so it is official its time to help me decorate my roost! Well it is my mom'sliving room to be exact. Depending on the sucess of this competition I will do a room from my house next month. To enter to win a gift card you must leave a comment with your ideas or (preferably) blog about how you would decorate the living room. Pictures will be very helpful and remember the top people that inspire me most will get a gift card to a favorite retail store. I am also hosting a giveaway at the same time. The giveaway is as simple as most and is intended to help bring people over here with their great ideas! So comment and get 1 entry, post about the contest, and comment be back to let me know and get 3 additional entries, so there you have it. Now I have some things already in this room. The colors are a ligth blue, rust, that sagey green and brown. The main points that need work are above the fireplace/mantle and this beast!!! There are tons of shelves that can be put into this so keep that in mind. I guess what I am thinking is... should I paint the shelving, what should I decorate with? It is a blank canvas I know, but you can do anything you like. I am just needing inspiration. There is very little to shop around the house for as Mom tends to donate stuff constantly. So think paint? think picutres, stars, decorative stuff. I know it is tough that is why if you post with deocr ideas you will possibly win a gift card to the store of your choosing.So we have our work cut out for us ladies and I am SO excited to see what you would do!

Remember.
The Giveaway Prize is Valentine's themed and agian the contest winner(s) will get gift cards~

25 Things about ME!

2009-01-28T22:35:00.000-05:00

I was tagged by Lindsey so here goes...

1. I have A.D.D. so finishing something like this that doesn't have prompts is VERY HARD for me. I am already getting antsy!

2. I went to my Alma Mater by default and am SO glad I did. Going to West Georgia changed my life.

3. I met my husband at a Sorority Crush Party. I saw him from across the room and I was SOLD!

4. While at West Georgia I joined a Sorority which led me to my husband and the best friend and little sis and girl could ask for!

5. You would never guess it, since I only wear make-up a few times a week, but I LOVE wearing make-up.

6. My husband proposed to me while holding our first four-legged baby Rocky a chihuahua. We lost him back in October and then I lost my ring at Christmas...

7. I LOVE USING ELLIPSES...

8. My wedding anniversary is June 24th but I was legally married on June 17th. In Alabama you can marry you 3rd cousin (no exaggeration) but a man cant change his last name.

9. I love shopping for new cars... I LOVE haggling and making deals.

10. I have a beautiful daughter who is a miracle, with stage 4 endo I was told I would never conceive.

11. I am always tired... my child doesnt sleep.

12. I love photography and am starting to develope a business for myself.

13. I LOVE decorating!

14. I am a packrat and hate it!

15. I hate grammar and have likely used poor grammar which will drive Lindsey CRAZY!

16. I am not at all like the mother I thought I would be which is good and bad.

17. I Love to garden and cant wait to do some major work this year in my backyard!

18. I have gotten sidetracked 4 times already and am having a hard time finishing this thing, but I refuse to quit something I just started.

19. I once won a social studies sompetition on the local, regional, and state level.

20. I was in honors chorus and went to state competitions, same with Drama... I won awards and stuff, I was an Honor Thespian. You know you are jealous!

21. I used to dance ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, and thanks to bad feet stopped and three foot surgeries later I cant even wear heels.

22. I loved a many parts of my wedding day, but I really hated my reception in alot of ways!

23. I married my soul mate and even though us both having A.D.D. makes things interesting I wouldnt have it any other way!

24. I have the most diverse and hysterical group of friends!

25. I have the most amazing Lord. He shows me daily how amazing he is and how perfect his love is!

Ok so I finished this and I should have been uploading the pics for the contest, but will tomorrow... SO I guess I tag you Laura! Tag your IT!!!

The Contest

2009-01-27T17:39:00.000-05:00

The Contest is coming. I have decided to host a contest in order to get great ideas for how to redecorate my living room. I am going to post pictures and color samples so that everyone knows what I have to work with and what I have already chosen for the new space. The rules are pretty simple to give me your ideas in the form of a comment, or if you want to blog your idea and link me to it in a comment that will work too. Blogging the idea will give you more room and the ability to use photos, and will give me a broader picture. I will leave it up at least a week, really think about each entry and decide what I feel inspired me most. Their will be several prizes. At least 2 maybe more if I feel that several people really influenced me. I know the prizes will be gift cards to either, Home Depot, Wal-mart, Target, Lowes, Hobby Lobby, or if you really have a love for a different card and I can easily get it I will do that as well. So there you have it. Also each person that enters will have their name in the hat for a prize unrelated to the contest. If you blog about it contest you will get entered 2 more times. So there are PLENTY of ways to win. I will be putting up the contest probably tomorrow night or Thursday. So STAY TUNED!!!!!

Blogging from the road

2009-01-25T21:23:00.000-05:00

So I am blogging from the road. I am tired and ready to be home. My goal is to get the laundry done tonight and all of my hubby’s vocabulary worksheets for the week written. I have had such a wonderful few weeks, and it seems like things just keep getting better. It honestly makes me wonder if something bad is going to happen. I am just keeping faith that the lord is blessing us right now and that things will only get better, but if you knew all the crap we have been through in the past 2 years, you would know why I am cautiously optimistic. Anyway, I had a great weekend in Augusta for my Mother-in-law’s 50th birthday and I also got my birthday presents from them, a really pretty engraved necklace and a little spending money! We had a really good time. I am glad to be getting home though because I have so many things that I want to accomplish over the next few weeks. It is going to be very busy. I have to pressure wash my decks and prep them to be re stained and painted, paint my cabinets, get new hardware, new light fixtures, countertops and floors all in the kitchen, all the while hopefully we can start construction on the remodel. I want all of this and the landscaping done by June. I want to enjoy my summer not just continuously work on the house. I hope to start grad school this summer, so I need to get my house and life in order. OH! My beautiful girl is starting to stand for a few seconds on her own, I am pretty sure walking is just around the corner…. I need to get serious about baby proofing! I want to host a competition. I am thinking of the exact rules, but it will be up this week. It will be a design competition and it will have at least 2 winners. That much I have figured out. So stay tuned for that.

A giveaway...

2009-01-20T18:09:00.000-05:00

Dani at icrafty is hosting a giveaway in honor of her 100th post! Go check it out!
http://icrafty.com/

We need to be praying!

2009-01-20T01:46:00.000-05:00

http://www.kellyskornerblog.com/

There is some kindred bond between mothers and at this time that bond feels very strong. There is a brand new mommy in need of our prayers. Kelly had her precious girl 3 days ago and all seemed fine at first but quickly that changed. Please visit Kelly's Korner let her know you are there for her and praying for her!

It's My Birthday and I'll be a bum if I want to!

2009-01-17T12:44:00.000-05:00

So I had an awesome party last night, all of my friends came and we had a great time! Rockband and Wii were enjoyed by all, as were the margaritas and food! But today, at least for 2 more hours I am giong to be a bum. I am going to stay in my pjs, curl up on the couch, and watch a movie. Then I will get up and go celebrate with my family!!! I am off to go be a bum! Have a GREAT DAY!

Where have you been?!?

2009-01-14T16:48:00.000-05:00

Well needless to say the house re-do keeps rollign along... right across me as it goes! I am SO tired. The only thing keeping me going is the fact that I have a house full of guests coming over on Friday for my brithday party!!! Only a miracle will get this house in order in time! I am currently between a few projects, laundry, hanging beadboard, and re puttying the ceiling from the storm damage! You are also probably saying Lani what about that give away you talked about... and I promise it will be up before Feb... and that's a promise! Well I am off to go get the baby down in hopes of getting more wood cut before the cold snap tonight. Be back tomorrow!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2009-01-11T22:08:00.000-05:00

Join the fun: http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

FOR TODAY Jan 11... yes it is a little early but I wont have time tomorrow

Outside my window... is a COLD and windy night

I am thinking... of reminding myself to stay thankful even though what I am thankful for is wearing me out! (home renovations)

I am thankful for... the BEAUTIFUL door I found on Craigslist for $10!!!!!

From the kitchen... nothing is brewing... our entire downstairs is upside down with paint and putty!

I am wearing... yoga pants Nursing tank and a cumphy t-shirt

I am creating... so many wonderful things in my head while I reputty the ceiling in my licing room! I have designed my new porch set up, a table, some planters, and some really adorable decorations for Lesley's First Birthday Party which will be in less than 2 months... ( I can't believe it)

I am going... to try and get caught up on laundry before bed

I am reading... a new food and wine magazine

I am hoping... to get SO much accomplished before my birthday party this friday. I have to cook all day Friday!

I am hearing... Lesley "talking" and trying to figure out the dog kennels....

Around the house... its chaos hence why I keep escaping in my mind to design other things

One of my favorite things... this may sounf terrible, but Lesley was SO tired earlier and was balling, something she almost never does, but it sounded like her little baby cry... I realized how much I loved that little cry and how I miss it! I have such a big girl now!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Finish reputtying, touch up paint on one wall (missed a spot or two), measure for crown molding, repaint bathroom, hang beadboard, paint it, clean and organize my "craftroom", LAUNDRY!!!, and cook for my birthday party. HOW I AM GOING TO BE BUSY!!!

Here is picture thought I am sharing... Lesley enjoying blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries for the first time! I love that she looks like a T-rex that has just eatin though!! LOL Thank God for his amazing blessings!!!

The Simple Womans Daybook

2009-01-05T22:26:00.000-05:00

FOR TODAY January 5th

Outside my window... it is raining steadily and I hear thunder in the distance

I am thinking... about finishing putting away her Christmas Decorations

I am thankful for... My bed, I only had 3 hours of sleep last night so heres hoping!

From the kitchen... I just finished making trail mix

I am wearing... blue jeans, a t-shirt, and fuzzy slippers

I am creating... a million things, but a new craft room is in the works

I am going... to finish putting away my christmas decortions and reorganize my living room before bed

I am reading... blogs for organization inspiration

I am hoping... to be more productive tomorrow

I am hearing... the noises of a 10 month old that wants to stay awake

Around the house... there are 10 million projects half way done. I think I need to pick one a day and start finishing them before they consume me.

One of my favorite things... my silly baby girl when she eats berries.... it looks like a t-rex is eating some prey

A few plans for the rest of the week: make stew half to eat half to freeze, clean out my closet and drawers, walk EVERYDAY, eat right, and shed a few pounds.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...This picture is of my Daughter right after we has her blessing/christining on the beach in Destin. I think she looks like and angel!

Where to begin?

2009-01-01T23:18:00.000-05:00

It has been two weeks since I last posted, and I have been BUSY! Aside from Christmas and New Years we have been doing come major work around the house!! I am so excited, but man am I tired!!! I had planned on doing a give away before Christmas but that didn't happen as you can see. So what have I been up to well A LOT! WE have rebuilt railings on our decks that were destroyed by a tornado, we have closed in a good portion of our attic to use as storage so that we can close in our basement. Then there was sewing all of my hand made Christmas presents and then Christmas and New Years! it has been a tad busy! Tomorrow we will replace light fixtures, Saturday go pick out new tile and hopefully some area rugs. So I will be posting Tons of before and afters before you know it! So for now I leave you with my Christmas photos. I promise I'll be back this weekend.... I just needed to catch my breath!

The Simple Womans Daybook

2008-12-15T23:18:00.001-05:00

Join Us... http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

FOR TODAY December 15, 2008

Outside my window... It is an oddly warm evening. Feels more like March than December.

I am thinking... about the fun I had today sewing and the more exciting crafting and sewing left to be done tomorrow

I am thankful for... my mom's help today. She is so amazing and I have so much to learn from her.

From the kitchen... I just ate a piece of pumpkin pie, it was cold already, but still GOOD!

I am wearing... very comfortable yoga pants and a Powder Hound Life is Good shirt

I am creating... Sew many things... get it. I am sewing A LOT. Aprons, Oven Mitts, tissue/ hand sanitizer holders, Overalls, Dresses.... the list continues.

I am going... to bed very soon. Maybe tonight I can go to sleep before 3 am.

I am reading... How to guides on building a mantel. I know how per se, but just not exactly how to properly attach it to my masonry.

I am hoping... to get some advice on how to redo my kitchen... I wish Some really creative people could help me. We have got to get this house back in order... most of the damage from the tornado will be repaired by Christmas except the kitchen, because I don't know where I want to go with it.

I am hearing... My dogs scratching to come in

Around the house... there is fabric a plenty!

One of my favorite things... Craigslist. I just got a new front door... well new to me... to $20 it is beautiful the people who are selling it for $20 are CRAZY!

A few plans for the rest of the week: More sewing tomorrow. a photo shoot Wednesday, refinishing furniture Thursday, cleaning Friday, Christmas Parties Saturday, Father-in-law comes to help rebuild what still needs repairs on Sunday and will be here til Tuesday... Can we say BUSY!

Here is picture thought I am sharing... OK a little background before someone call DFCS. I normally would never let my daughter get this dirty... however tonight while out throwing the ball with our dogs she kept trying to get out of our hands. So, we allowed her to get down and crawl on the deck. OK so I admittedly did not know my deck was so dirty and yes it is on the list to be pressure washed, however I had to stop myself from picking her up because she thought it was SO funny to crawl on the deck and just take it all in. (she has only ever been allowed to crawl around on carpet) There were leaves and twigs... she was in heaven. I can honestly say I heard my 9 month old laugh more in 15 minutes tonight than she has before. So even though she got dirty... she had so much fun and I did as well. Watching her little world expand was truly an awesome gift. So check her out... because 5 minutes after this was taken her butt was in the bath!

Christmas Tree Tour

2008-12-12T17:44:00.000-05:00

http://www.wearethatfamily.com/2008/12/its-time-to-share-your-tree.html

I thought this sounded like fun! I am joining in a tour of trees! So here are some repeat pics and a few new to share! I don't have any special ornaments... yet. This is really the first Christmas we are sharing as our new family. I hope though that one year we will have a family tree to share, but for now it is my coordinated tree!

GIVEAWAY!

2008-12-12T15:05:00.000-05:00

Ok so there is a GREAT giveaway going on right now at Ravings of a Mad Housewife https://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=843012257283644795&postID=1891838076475991526&page=1. Fiesta is a great product and I love their dishware! Go check it out.... or dont and then I have better chances.... ok go... Oh and stay tuned as over the weekend I will be hosting a giveaway as well!!!

also. Hello to my new follower Suzanne from over at Sugarloaf Cottage. Go check her out!

Fun Filled Day

2008-12-10T18:27:00.000-05:00

So today I had such a great time. Lesley and I spent to day with my good friend Lindsey (http://thelifeofmrslanghans.blogspot.com/ ) and her daughter Charlotte! We went out to lunch at my favorite Mexican place The Border and then went to this fab store. It's called Robinson Salvage, they buy all kinds of stuff from stores that are closing and sell it at GREAT prices. We aren't talking Big Lots, we are talking $1000 Bridal Gowns for $400 and two aisles over A full set of Mikasa China for $99. Then random ornaments, vases, furniture and car parts.... its CRAZY awesome. Lindsey and I were there Forever! Here are some pics of our precious girls from a couple weeks ago. Today was not a day for pics as it was a DOWNPOUR. Lindsey and I had never had to get the girls out in really bad weather before and we did it together today. Lets just say I had just blown my hair dry but by the time we got to the restaurant you would have thought otherwise.... oh and while bending over to get LC out of the car I had rain running down my pants.... (wet panties anyone!) and running into the shoes. Yes I had on clogs, and yes I realize now that clogs were a poor choice! So pretty much I was a HOT MESS! But we had a great day and laughed A LOT!

My Garland is showing

2008-12-10T01:59:00.001-05:00

So I thought I would participate in all the fun their having over at The Nester!! You should join too. http://nestingplacenc.blogspot.com/

So here is my garland. I shopped the house, leftovers from the tree, and I took apart a floral arrangement.... here it is after being picked through.

and then put it back up because even though it looks like crap, I have no where else to put it... Here are some close ups. You should ignore the wood covering my fireplace. We just got a new roof and I haven't uncovered it yet... I dread cleaning it out especially with a 9 month old!

Here is the mantel remember what I said about tree leftovers? Well I really was grabbing at straws, but it turned out OK! This is the first time I have ever decorated a tree or anything else for Christmas. I guess mainly because it never mattered to Wes and I until LC came around. I bought fabric to make stockings, but seeing as how we wont even be home for Christmas I decided to just wait. We do Christmas with my husbands family in Augusta and LC's stocking has been waiting on her since last year! LOL.
Some ornaments that we received from my husbands students... (as a rule ornaments are not the best teacher gifts better yet a $5 gift card to Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, or anywhere really. I promise you it really makes their day!) stepping off my soapbox...

Oh here is a card display thing I got the other day at STACEY'S... I LOVE IT! I think I may paint it though.. it blends in to much I think... what do you think? See that little blue one? That is Mrs. Langhans from Highheels and Hairbows http://thelifeofmrslanghans.blogspot.com/ and her precious family. Our daughters are best friends, born 4 days apart, and Lindsey and I were next door neighbors in the hospital. We have known each other much longer though.... college actually. Oh and I almost forgot.... so for those of you that don't know our home was hit by a tornado on Mothers Day...my first, well insurance isn't covering 30% of the damage.... so anyway we are having to do a lot on a VERY SMALL budget. Which is my I have so excited tonight when we went to Lowe's and they had just taken down a display of sinks. I asked what they were doing with them and they said clearancing them out. Well I got first pick and I found a beautiful new sink, without a blemish for $70!!!!! I was beside myself. The Lord is good and he does provide!

The Simple Womans Daybook

2008-12-08T12:48:00.000-05:00

Join in on the fun http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

FOR TODAY December 8, 2008

Outside my window... is a bright and COLD day.

I am thinking... about all of the things I need to be doing

I am thankful for...my precious angel Lesley she gets funnier and more animated by the day.

From the kitchen... I am going to go make my lunch in a few, once I get Lesley down for a nap... I think a chicken sandwich will be great!

I am wearing... PJ's I don't get changed until I am about to leave... to many chances of getting my clothes messed up.

I am creating... my holiday garland and wreath

I am going... to hopefully not get into a fight with my insurance agency today!

I am reading... Marley and Me again before I see the movie. I bought it and read it when it first came on in hard back almost 3 years ago... so I need a refresher.

I am hoping... to get the house cleaned and to play in the floor with my baby girl today

I am hearing... PBS coming from the other room... whatever happened to Reading Rainbow?

Around the house... a mess can be found in every room. So I am not perfect it's OK.

One of my favorite things... the smell of my baby girl.

A few plans for the rest of the week: we have our 9 month check up tomorrow! and I need to get my holiday cards out!

Here is picture thought I am sharing... My sweet Furbaby Fiona is just as curious about Lesley as she is of Fiona. They LOVE exploring each other!

a prayer for mommies

2008-12-08T00:57:00.000-05:00

Dear Merciful Lord,
I am humbled at your amazing love and wisdom. I am in awe of the way you know me and all other mothers too. You know that whether our beautiful child is with us on earth, not sent by you yet, or called home already that our hearts were meant for them. You Lord know our hearts and created them to hold the gifts that you give us. Lord I am praying to you to hold all mothers close this holiday season. We carry your gifts in our wombs for a short time, but forever in our hearts. Some of us may really need to lean on you this season, because the closer we are to you, the closer we are to our angels. Lord please be with new mothers like myself. We worry a lot and you know the fears we have Lord, please ease them. Lord for the mothers whose children have yet to be sent to them, give them comfort to have the faith to know their gift will come when it is your will. Lord most of all I want to thank you for your child. You gave him up for us and we can never show enough love and gratitude. Lord I ask you all of these things in Jesus Christs name. Amen.

Everyday Unwrapped

2008-12-08T00:42:00.001-05:00

You can join in on the fun go to http://emmafree.blogspot.com/ and join in.

I will start my first everyday unwrapped with the situation that made me realize I need to slow down and pay attention to what is going on. In this pic you see my daughter chewing on rolled silverware at the Irish Pub. Well I snapped the pic and then realized that I shouldn't let her chew on this so I took it away. Well of course she kept going for it. So without thinking I put it up. 2 days later I found the rolled contraband in my diaper bag! So moral to the story Lani needs to slow down and pay attention. So I did just that. No I don't have a picture to show for it, but while enjoying my daughters amazing and huge smile I saw that she has the smallest tooth bud starting. It is so exciting to watch her grow, but also sad to see her becoming more and more independent. I need to slow down and cherish these days because before I even realize it they will be gone and she will be walking, running, riding a bike. You get the point. So today I slowed down to watch my daughter grow.

another give away notice!

2008-12-07T22:39:00.001-05:00

Talk about cute stuff!!! I keep stumbling across these awesome give aways. Check out this great give away and read her blog. She is TOO funny! http://mommaneedsatimeout.blogspot.com/2008/12/merry-christmas-giveaway.html

I pormise I will post tomorrow about me and not give aways... well unless I find more awesome giveaways!

Catherine Holman Folk Art: Cupcake Painting Giveaway!

2008-12-07T13:18:00.000-05:00

Catherine Holman Folk Art: Cupcake Painting Giveaway!

You absolutely have to go check out this cute as can be painting. And better yet it is a give away!!!!

The Tree

2008-12-05T23:30:00.000-05:00

Ok so I guess I may be done with my tree. I know I am obsesing but whatever.... I need to take a better pick and will later, but I am too tired so without further ado.
So now I am on to the garland and wreath, oh yeah and cleaning up the house I have been neglecting the past few days!

Breast Cancer

2008-12-05T13:29:00.001-05:00

http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/clickToGive/home.faces?siteId=2

We need to all go to this site and click.... EVERYDAY! We all have boobies, let's keep em safe!

So much to say!

2008-12-04T19:11:00.000-05:00

So I have been a tad bit busy lately! My Daughter Lesley Claire in getting rather mobile and chasing her and our two large dogs around a x-mas tree is proving difficult. Anyway, I have had a great day despite the weather today and found a TON of cool stuff. Mostly bargains like the pumpkin lanterns (6 of them), fall foliage garland (3 strands), and pilgrim people. I know your thinking hello its not fall, but I got them all 90% off!!! I ADORE fall and have been trying to slowly build my fall decorations without spending much money. I am sad to pack them away so quickly, but it makes looking forward to next fall that much more exciting! Oh I also got something for a friend... and since she follows this blog I guess it isn't a surprise. (which is OK because I can't keep gifts a secret anyway) I saw it and immediately thought of her dining room. If you don't love it Lindsey its OK I can return it, but I just thought it would be so pretty with all of the other feathered treasures in your dining room! I actually thought it would be cute nested in with your white one. Anyway to see what I am talking about you can check out her decorations at Highheels and Hairbows thelifeofmrslanghans.blogspot.com . Anyway, after my shopping I met up with My Hubby and we took our daughter to the Christmas Parade here in town. It was COLD and RAINY so we decide to grab a burger and wait it out. We had a very pleasant evening and now I am sitting here listening to my husband snore while my sweet angel is sleeping on his chest. I still am not satisfied with my tree but I think I will be done with it tomorrow for better or worse. I still have to do my garland and my wreath! So I need to stop being such a perfectionist. I guess since it's our first Christmas with the baby and first time we have put up a tree in this house I just want perfection. I can dream right. See you soon.

Decking The Halls

2008-12-02T22:19:00.000-05:00

So today my mother came over to help me watch the baby and get started on my decorating. Well we got a ton of laundry done, LC napped like a champ, and mom and I started to decorate the tree. I have gotten a few things put up and I thought I would share some pics before I got so tired I start hanging everything crooked.

I also started working on some wordle's http://www.wordle.net/ to give as gifts. I have made several, one is Christmas themed and others include people's names, marriage, and teacher as themain word with words that describe them surrounding. I dug through my basement and found the supplies for making a festive sign for my self in the living room. But I think the best part of the day, and it was amazing to beat out time with my mom and daughter, was when my Faith decoration and willow tree figures were being lit by the soft light of the tree. I just had to take a picture to remember how blessed I am. I was told I would most likely never conceive and through faith, prayer, and God guiding the hands of Doctors I became a mother. I am blessed. I hope that you are too.

My Photography

2008-12-01T22:45:00.001-05:00

I have been doing photography for a couple of years now, and am very excited that the business is beginning to pick up a bit. I was talking with photography with my friend Lindsey, she and I both enjoy the art, and it made me really think about the gift I have been given. I have been allowed to memorialize very important moments in alot of lives. I can't show most pics here due to not having rights to display for non-business related purposes, but there are some that I do have expressed permission to show. Anyway, I am just really proud of some photos and thought I would share. Josh and Miranda Dawson

Peyton Lee Mode 1st Birthday

My Princess Lesley Claire

How 3 posts in one day. I can't promise it will always be that busy around here, but I am getting the hang out it!

The Simple Womans Daybook

2008-12-01T19:35:00.000-05:00

So I want to join in on some fun I have been reading about for a few weeks.

If you want to join http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/ you can too.

FOR TODAY December 1,2008

Outside my window... is a cold dark night. I can see my neighbors Christmas lights starting to come on.

I am thinking... about the mountain of laundry that needs my attention, but that I would rather decorate my tree.

I am thankful for...the wonderful day I spent with a very dear friend, Lindsey, and watched our beautiful daughters play.

From the kitchen... we had leftover Chili that I made last night. It was still just as fabulous.

I am wearing... my favorite blue jeans and a nursing tank top.

I am creating... ornaments and bows for my tree and edited photos of a friends wedding.

I am going... to get alot of work done in the morning, I might need to go to bed early.

I am reading... blogs today. I need more inexpensive and creative christmas present ideas.

I am hoping... for a wonderful and productive week so that I may be less stressed the rest of the month.

I am hearing... my sweet baby girl laughing at her daddy , and my husband getting onto our very large dogs for giving the baby too many kisses.

Around the house... I have 100 projects needing my attention.

One of my favorite things... new pajamas... I have a new pair in the dryer. I am so excited!

A few plans for the rest of the week: decorate, edit photos, take holiday pictures, work for the Doc and sew... I have ALOT of sewing to do.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

I hope you enjoy my blog and visit often!

Just Getting Started

2008-12-01T19:18:00.001-05:00

So I am new to the blogging world, as you can clearly see. I have journaled and somewhat blogged in other formats but never anything as concrete as this. I have really enjoyed being a voyer to the blog world through friends blogs and also the occasional stragers creative blog. Because of this I decided it was time to figure things out, so I tried to get started and apparently was missing a step or 3 and with the help on my very good friend Lindsey I have finally begun. I am very excited to join this community and look forward to sharing the journey of my life. I am a wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin and friend. I have an amazing life that I am more than amazed by daily. Things may get tight, as the stay at home wife of a teacher, but that teaches you to get creative. So for now... See you soon.