HopeAbound

2012-01-30T07:38:00.004-05:00

Monday, Monday. My plans have not yet been written out except for the fine truth that laundry has been started and move from the kitchen and the littles are still in dreamland. Hello there sweet blog friends. How was your weekend? I'm praying it was relaxing as ever.

We didn't do much around our house but soak up every last drop of laziness we could find. Thanks to an eventful day last week, my body was lacking some serious energy to keep up with our typical ebb and flow. I'm on the mends though and want to send out a big hug and shout of thanks to all that sent up some prayers.

Saturday led us outside to keep Daddy company. He worked on brakes and such.

Sidewalk chalk, sunglasses, beach chairs, sunshine, blue skies.

These days, you'll see the girls enjoying their sunglasses a lot. It's a new found love and I'm totally digging it! The frames perch so perfectly on their pudgy cheeks and leave me absolutely smitten for my Littles.

And attitude...I'm thinking it was a package deal with the glasses.

They only use it when the glasses are on...

HA! Who am I kidding!

Are they not the most precious Littles you've ever seen?

I know I'm a tad bias on the matter, but golly george!!!

They're so LOVE-able!!!!

I got a few things done this weekend despite my lack of oomph.

Twice baked potatoes, BBQ potatoes and potato skins were made to freeze.

Gotta love easy meals and snacks.

I found some old pictures and sent them to my Bub for keeping.

My Grandmother and Granddaddy...our last summer with him.

Me and Bub...Cades Cove...circa, um, a long time ago. *smile*

The Little's brought home their Zacharias craft from church and I thought they were eligible for fridge display (like all other crafts they do *wink*)

That was it. Nothing spectacular but spectacular itself. We played, we loved, we lazied around, we laughed, and dreamed...lots!

It's Monday. Go get to work....living life to the max!!!

Linking up with these lovely ladies today...

Heather

Jamie

Carissa

Friday Rambles

2012-01-27T07:23:00.003-05:00

I'm up this morning enjoying the sounds of rain bouncing off the roof. It's puddling in the wood grain on the back porch quite nicely. I had full intentions of loading the Little's up this morning to play at the park then stop and get some groceries and such, but alternate plans have proceeded to take over.

Rain rain, don't go away...our trees and shrubs need water today.

Works out in our favor, in such sorts. The Little's woke yesterday with snotty noses and puffy cheeks. Out of the blue I tell you. But even more so, I ended up at the ER. Crazy I know!! When you feel like an elephant is sitting on your chest and the breath you take in is the size of a pea...call for help! The hubs came home and rushed me to the ER. While some might say 911 would have been the better option, I called him first. The results of having zero babysitters and close friends to call for emergencies. (Thinking that should be a goal for this year)

Ended up with

a diagnosis of Acute Bronchitis. Yuck! So despite the fact that I have a very clear grocery list paired with matching coupons and all, we will be staying in today to recoup and eat chicken noodle soup...or whatever I can find in the pantry...being that I need to go grocery shopping *sigh*

This week has been so good yall! We've had only a few meltdowns. I've been working so hard with the Little's and their tempers. I've even been focusing on using a softer voice to try and sway their moods. Makes me feel better and I'm also getting the point across a lot easier. Prayer is a wondrous thing, isn't it?

Last night we had some chicken alfredo and I watched my Little's slurp up the noodles like pro's. Sauce from ear to ear just like when they eat spaghetti...

I started making the sauce from scratch and they are loving it. So precious. I'm soaking up all these little moments because I know that before long, they'll be grown and out the door. Like a sponge I am.

I'm hoping today will be a good one since we'll be stuck inside. If they weren't sick, and I as well, we'd step foot into our rain boots and go splash around outside. Oh well.

At least it's Friday and tomorrow will be a day I can get some rest and extra sleep with the hubs being home. So, off I go to cuddle on the couch with my sick babies, sock covered toes, tissues in hands, and Hermie on standby for entertainment.

Fair well dear friends.

Have a splendid weekend!

Q and A Tag Along

2012-01-27T02:00:00.000-05:00

Kaylee at Max and Kaylee tagged me in a little Q &A that's been floating around, and I figured it would be fun to answer away, and then tag a few other blog friends!

Rules
1. Post the rules (and link up who tagged you).
2. Post eleven facts about yourself.
3. Answer the questions the tagger set for you, and create eleven new questions for those you tag.
4. Tag however many people you want.
5. Let them know you tagged them!

11 Facts about Me
1. In high school I showed pigs to save money for college. Oink! Oink!
2. I hate being away from my family.
3. I love to sing.
4. I can't draw even though I really love to. Make sense?
5. I love grocery shopping.
6. I hate shopping for clothes.
7. I love spinach.
8. I'm the baby of my family.
9. I used to clog in elementary school.
10. I love polka dots.
11. Vegetables...LOVE THEM!!!

Kaylees Q's for Me

1. What is your favorite food?
When I was younger I favored lasagna. It was a yearly birthday request. Since my pregnancy, I've grown to adore Mexican dishes more so than pasta and sauce. A bowl of chips and salsa...ANYTIME!!!

2. If you won the lottery, what would you do with the money?
I've always told my Moma and Daddy that I'd help them if I ever ended up with a large amount of money. I even promised my Daddy that one day I'd help buy him a new truck. He still reminds me of it to this day, jokingly of course. After that I'd help those that need it;church family, other family members, and all of the blog friends that are working so hard for adoptions.

3. What is your favorite accessory?
I'm not too big on accessories. I've never been one to dress up s

4. If you had a "day off", what would you do?
I seriously think I would sleep a little bit. Who am I kidding?!? I'd sleep a lot.
5. Where would you love to travel to?
I'd like to see some of Europe. I'm not picky on exact locations.

6. If I came to visit you, where would you take me?
Since we haven't really had the chance to discover the historical Charleston, I think I'd take you on that journey so you can see it with me.

7. What is your favorite book?
I really don't have one. I've just recently started reading. Sad I know. But when I was younger, like elementary age, I read through the Babysitters Club series from beginning to end. LOVED IT!!!

8. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Closer to family. That's it!

9. Have you been to a Ballet? Would you like to go?
I have always wanted to, but no one I've know has had the desire to go with me. Maybe that's where we would go if you ever came to visit me. :)

10. Do you play (or did you play?) a musical instrument?
In elementary school I played several instruments. I started taking guitar lessons and oh how I wish I would have stuck with it. I also played the clarinet in a small jazz band using my Moma's clarinet from her high school days. Then I picked up the violin for a short time and played around with it. I never followed through with any of them. Kicking myself these days.

11. What is your current favorite song?
Most recent love...Trust in Jesus by Third Day
I sing it loud and proud on days that seem gray and overwhelming...and every other day that doesn't qualify for the latter.

Questions for those I've tagged

1. Did you have a childhood sweetheart/crush?
2. What color would you dream house be?
3. What's your favorite spice to cook with?
4. Do you have a crafty niche? Crocheting, knitting, sewing, etc?
5. What's your favorite cookbook?
6. Do you have a favorite TV show?
7. What color will you paint your toes for summer?
8. Are you and organized person?
9. Roses or tulips? Why?
10. What are your top 2 goals for 2012?
11. What time to you go to bed?

Ok...time to pass the torch to my lovely friends.
Duck duck....goose!!!

Jamie at One Blessed Lady
Kelly at Joyful Adorations
Laura at Along for the Ride

You're it!

Contentment Through it All

2012-01-26T02:00:00.000-05:00

It's a bit ironic now. The girls can ramble this word off like it's nothing. A repetitious vocabulary session of ...

happpeeee! happpeee! HAPPPEEEE!!!

The sky was clear yesterday with a slight tint of gray. The warmth was so welcoming that after nap time we went outward to keep it company. The warmth felt good on my skin, soaking up the deliciousness of natural vitamin d. Mmm...mmm! It flooded my heart with simple pleasure. Days like this give me the opportunity to truly relax and watch the Little's explore and discover the world around them.

I watch them while they play. I watch how they twirl their thoughts around their fingers and intertwine them with each others. An act I never grow tired of. They lean towards new finds everyday...today it's the bark on the tree and it's layer upon layer. It's a wondrous design.

While my heart is full at this point in my life, sometimes I can't help myself by lingering down that little dirt road of possibility...what if we had a boy? What if? I'm not sure if I would even know where to begin. My life is so full of girl right now. Priss-pots that sparkle and shine with girly girlness. Lady like whimpers and woes to the fullest extent. Their room radiates girl. Lace, polka dots, bunnies, butterflies...where would I put a boy? How would a boy fit in this picture?

And yet I wonder, why wouldn't a boy fit in? Just look at those girls. Following in their Daddy's footsteps. A boy would melt perfectly between the two of them...so I suppose. Why a boy? I've always wanted one. I think my husabnd needs a buddy to tag along with him. Every man does. It would make my heart full and happy to give him that gift, but I know it's not up to me.

While this is a slight distraction of the grocery list I have to whip up before tomorrow, I'm still in wonder. I don't question Him, but I'm curious of what the Lord has in store for our family this next year or two. Will He make room in this heart for another cuddly little or will He show me that contentment is my heart and that my heart is content? What shall He?

"He satisfied the longing soul and fills the hungry soul with goodness."

Psalm 107:9

Contentment is something that I'm learning. It's a beautiful thing to recognize your heart and the measure in which God has filled it. To be happy is one thing, but to be content with your life and your life's road is something even more beautiful.

"Because thy loving kindness is better than life my lips will praise You. Thus will I bless You while I live? I will lift up my hands in Your name. My soul shall be satisfied."

Psalm 63:3-5

My trust is in the Lord despite whatever choice He makes. I give it all to Him.

Buffalo Chicken Wraps

2012-01-25T07:20:00.000-05:00

On Sunday, I made this killer chicken dish. Chicken, carrots, potatoes, and onions all covered in this incredibly yummy garlic and herb sauce. So GOOD!!! I had leftover chicken and have been racking my brain on what to do with it. Endless possibilities, I know. But I went on a search despite the obvious suggestions I was giving myself.

On Pinterest, there was an idea that stuck with me. Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches.

Source

MMM...mmm!!! Sounded great, but I didn't have everything to follow those recipes. I really wanted to try them so I tried improvising with what I did have. Every link I saw used the same basic idea. I looked in the fridge and had a little bit of buffalo wing sauce, a lime, ranch dressing, tortilla shells, provolone cheese and some hot sauce..oh and butter! Perfect!!!

It was so good!
No lie!
Husband loved it!
You should give it a try...if you're up for the heat factor.
*WINK!!!*

Warning:
- It's HOT!
-Lot's of stirring!!

Melt the butter in a sauce pan on a low heat.

Add the hot sauce, stir well.

Add the buffalo sauce, stir.

Squeeze in the juice of the lime, stir.

Add the chicken and...stir to combine.

Warm the shells in microwave for 10 seconds covered with a damp cloth. Place one piece of provolone in the middle of the shell. Lay the chicken on the cheese and drizzle ranch dressing over top. Fold and devour!!

We ate ours with some homemade mashed potatoes because ~~I knew the girls would definitely eat them~~ we love them so. I even had some chicken left over which I saved and put in the freezer for a quick lunch for the hubs one day.

I hope you enjoy!

Faith, Family, and Food.

2012-01-23T07:16:00.001-05:00

This week. Oh boy this week.

If it's anything like last week, Lord help me. All wise and experienced send words of encouragement and most often heard phrase, "it's just a phase." One that I'm experiencing full forced and open heartedly, yet ready to learn from and move forward. I also bought a book. It's amazing!!! I needed it too. If you haven't read it, you should consider. Especially if you feel bogged down by the devil lately. He's such a trickster!!

While I take their advice and run with it, I have been doing some leaning on my one true support, Jesus Christ. I can sing to Him, cry to Him, laugh to Him, and just be with Him. And that is the most amazing comfort a lost Moma can ever receive.

This weekend was very rejuvenating for all of us. We enjoyed some needed family bonding. After being cooped up all last week, the Little's played outside till they were exhausted. Well, we all played outside till we were exhausted. We grilled some good food and filled out bellies to the brim.

The rain came back on Sunday and gave us a reason to be lazy and enjoy the warmth of the couch. We ate and ate...cookies, popcorn, carrots, PB and J...by the end of the night my belly was aching. But man was it a fun day.

We got out taxes done and started making a list of all the things we could use the money for. My husband has a dream...of getting a boat. I have a dream of zero debt and home improvement projects...small ones. *wink*

We'll see who wins.

Our Hank boy started moaning again this weekend. A sign of back discomfort which calls for a trip to the vet. Praying his back isn't worse this time. He's my buddy and I hate seeing him hurt so bad.

We made some oh so good Italian meatballs on Friday. Tossed them in the freezer for quick and easy meals.

So good! So good! So good!

Here's my recipe:

(Disclosure: I'm very far from being Italian, so this is just my take on the subject)

Italian Meatballs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

1/3 pound ground beef

1 pound ground turkey

1 pound ground chicken

2 t oregano

1/2 T basil

1/2 T dry onions

1/2 T garlic powder

1/2 T salt

1/2 T pepper

Mix together. Form meatballs. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

I ended up with 58 total.

Oh and because I'm feeling oh so happy this morning......

2 for 2

2012-01-19T07:28:00.001-05:00

Bright and early we started the girls' birthday with chocolate chip cookies. I pulled the chairs up and let them at it. They measured and scooped. Spilled and poured.

Can you see their shirts? Do you see Hope's face?

Covered in flour and brown sugar. Priceless!

I was going to save this craft for later on, but because the weather wasn't the greatest we did it anyways. A little Valentines craft for the birthday girls.

Some red paint, glitter, a few hearts...all added up to some pretty cute remnants.

Once Daddy got home, we ordered pizza and devoured it. The girls were so excited! They love pizza. Once they saw me bring out their presents I couldn't keep them away. We called Nana and Pa on Skype so they could watch.

Farm toys, tiaras, puzzles, a cd player for their room, tu-tu's, a tractor, and money to Wal-Mart...

these girls had it made!!

My favorite picture...

This year I made a simple cake for them. I skipped the chocolate to keep from having a meltdown like before. A sweet confetti cake with strawberry icing. Mmm...mmm!

Their cake was gone within seconds!

They got baths to wash all the icing out of their hair and we attempted to wind down from the sugar rush. The hubs and I agree that it's so hard to imagine that they're two already. Reality or not. We don't know what this year has in store for them. The mountains they'll climb or endeavors they'll endure...but we sure know that the Lord has given us two beautiful ladies that make our hearts so incredibly full.

Happy Birthday my Littles!!

Sassy at 2

2012-01-18T02:37:00.000-05:00

It's here.

The day has arrived.

It's the Littles' birthday.

The big 2 year mark.

We don't have huge plans...it's just us four this year.

We're going to eat pizza.

Try making cupcakes again.

Open some presents.

And just party the night away...well, until bedtime that is. *wink*

SO this is their day. I'll let them steal the show with their lovely 2 year pictures...so full of Sass.

Hope Savannah

The "in action" moment.

Oh my little lovelies! How you mold my heart into something that I never once imagined it could become. You take my heart by the strings and dance across life's stage so perfectly and in tune with every beat it makes. I can't praise the Lord enough for the miracles He's blessed me with.

Happy Birthday!

Whatever

2012-01-17T07:44:00.001-05:00

My days usually...ok...I won't lie here.

My days ~~must~~ always begin with coffee.

Like my new cup?!?

Thank you $1 section at Target!!!

I got a new do this past week. I got some guts and went for it.

Speaking of some other things I'm loving these days...

My new earrings from Laura. My new favorites.

This lovely face...hers, not mine!

Big things in the mail...yay!!!

Her cheeks and button nose.

My book worm.

My bag lady.

My man...

number one for being my man and number two, for cleaning my carpets this weekend.

Squeaky clean!!!

It's Tuesday.

Warm weather in the forecast today.

I'm thinking outside is a definite.

Sweet luvins!

Thrifty Thrifting

2012-01-13T02:00:00.000-05:00

Say the word THRIFT several times. It only takes maybe 3-4 repeats before it really sounds weird. Do you ever wonder how and who came up with some of the words in the English language. Man! Anyhoo...

This is where the Little's and I went this week. It was our special trip. Sometimes we venture to Target, sometimes its the Dollar Store, most cases it's Publix because we're always always out of milk. But. This week. The Thrift Store was the chosen one.

We walked around that store right when they opened at 9 because early birds get the word...or all the good stuff in our case. Just look at what we scored...

A bag of doilies for $3
An old briefcase for $1
An old ammo tin for $6 (shhh! Don't tell the hubs...it's a present for him this year *smile*)

A bag of cookie cutters for $3 ( the Little's couldn't wait to play with them...see those sticky fingers?!)

A J.Crew polka dot purse for $3

A pair of gray boots for $2

I saw these baskets and fell in love! Four of them for $3 because one had a broken handle.

I think the doilies are my favorite though. I can't wait to whip up some lovelies for the house.

The boots, I was shocked to see the boots. You see, I've been wrastling with the thought of buying a pair of boots off a website that I honestly can't remember and am seriously too lazy to go look for. I do however remember that they were around $40 and some change. So you can understand my excitement when I saw that these were only two bucks AND my size! That NEVER happens to me....EVER!!!!

And to add to the joy of all of our good finds, we got home and saw that my new kicks had arrived. For 16.99, I was almost as happy as I was about those $2 boots!

The only sad thing is that I quickly learned that the SIMPLE brand is closing...so I'm thinking I'm going to snag a few more while they're on sale and store them up....cause they're super super comfy and cutesy too!

Well I"m off to sip on my coffee and wait for the Little's to stir around. Cheers!

Bed Time

2012-01-12T02:00:00.000-05:00

It's not often that they wander into my room and snuggle up in the comfiness of Moma and Daddy's bed. Mainly because every single time we've done so, one or both end up falling off the bed ending the whole fun moment with a flood of tears. I have a fear of a broken arm/leg, two Little's and being home alone. So it's been taken off the fun list for a while. That is, until today.

Sugar and spice and everything nice.

My girls, not quite that spice concoction.

They're a bit spicier, I would say.

Our rainy day started at the break of dawn...we watched TV. We cuddled

The Tickle Monster made a visit...or two...or three. Who's counting?

You see, here lately, our home has been filled with nonsense. I've been pushed to my limits. I've made numerous negotiations. Settled thousands of differences. All to instill the just right values into the hearts of these two royalties. I've been so consumed with getting it right that I've overlooked the joy of it all. My secret? I don't have one. We're still working on things. I take notes from the day before and go from there. Sort of like a step ahead of them persay.

Let go of the worry.

If they fall off the bed, oh well.

That's what God's hand is for.

Let go of the frustration that their nonsense may bring to your day and let their smiles fill your heart. It's a contagious act and it will turn evertying around. I promise.

Change things up...let them sleep in a new room on a different bed. And maybe just maybe, catch some z's with them. Bring some rejuvenation to all of you.

I love my girls. To the bottom of my heart and back.They make me angry at times, frustrated beyond words, but always, always steal my heart when I'm at my lowest moments. It's days like today, bed time for instance, that brings me back to focus and builds my strength back up to deal with the load ahead.

It's What We Do

2012-01-11T07:43:00.001-05:00

Did your Mama ever have these? Do you? When I was little, I'd sit up on the bathroom counter and watch my Moma roll her hair. I honestly don't know how she did it. I'm not sure if it's that I have sort of thin hair or that I just don't have a clue, but this....

This...is the ONLY way I could get my rollers to stick. I looked like an alien Moma and that's the truth! And you should have seen the little's faces when they saw this contraption.

Go ahead. Bust out laughing, because I was. What was I thinking?

They joined in on the hair fun quick. They each brought me a clip and asked "pwease?" How could I resist?

And I'm sure if I would have left the rollers in long enough, I would have had nicely curled Q's, but I was impatient and was left with semi-curls.

Oh we had so much fun. These girls were cracking me up! I was reminiscing the days of my so called counter time with my Moma. Clouds of Aqua Net hovering above my head, tight curls, poofy do's.

Those moments were little, but priceless.

It was in those short spurts that I learned a lot about life. About being a lady. About being a woman. I might not have picked up on hair tactics, but I did catch the rest. (looking back, maybe I should have focused more on the hair)

The Littles.

Their clips were in and out, in and out. Side clips, back clips, front clips...you name it. They were so funny! And who knows what they were telling me about my alien hair. Crazy mumbo jumbo.

I combed out my curls. Not sure if I should have, because they looked funky. I think I may need a trim or a new cut. Something. It just looked poofy and frizzy to me. Didn't like it one bit. So, what does a girl do when her hair fails?

Starts over, that's what!

MOPS meeting at 9:30? Eh? It's 8:45, I've got time to dry and hit the road.

The girls got ponytails and I got clean straight hair for the day.

You see, as mothers and wives, we pick up pieces, make new what has been mangled up, and press forward with what lies before us in a way that fits and suits our family...US. We show our girls, or sons, that perfection is not found simply in looks, it's found in how you think of yourself and how you view your heart.

Perfect for the person you are.

Just as God created us...you.

Even on days when we don't quite feel like it.

We Were

2012-01-09T07:06:00.000-05:00

The week has been cloudy for me. I've been struggling with these ladies and their temper flairs. Trying so hard to hold on to my faith and understanding of motherly responsibilities. My life, my breath. That's what they are...yet they make it all so difficult at times. This week. It's been a doozy.

Somehow, though, I think they knew that I was a weary soul. That my heart was sad. Saturday came and they filled it with so much joy that my heart was overflowing. We didn't fight or argue. We didn't tantrum our way down the hall. We didn't kick our way to the point to be made. We just were.

Usually, we meander our way around the back yard. It corrals all the slides and playhouse type things that we play with day to day. For some reason, we ended up in the front yard where we spent majority of our sunshine.

A few snacks and some pruning of the "we can't believe they're still alive" flowers.

I even managed to finish a project I've been working on for the girls' room. Bigger clothes means more storage room. Say hello to my $18 thrift store buy.

Their room is different these days. A few more accents that give it a comfy feeling. And this dresser offers a fresh feel with it bright and cheery coat of paint. I'm not quite finished with their room, but when I am, I'll give you a tour.

No one ever said this job, motherhood that is, was going to be easy. There are times when I feel as if I'm being suffocated with screaming, drowned in tears, and beaten to death by precious little hands.

But look at them.

They are SO worth it!

And for a light laugh for a Monday...

Take a second glance at this picture. My fall wreath on the door. A pot of dead flowers to my side. And fall decorations laying on the side table by the chair. I'm far from having all my ducks in a row.

Now I'm off to break a sweat for a bit or two.

Happy Monday!!!!

Sometimes....

2012-01-06T13:34:00.000-05:00

A rough day.
They started early for some reason.
Grumpy and whiny.
I'm not sure why or what for...but that was the mood starting bright and early.

We played and cried.
Played and cried.
Several trips to timeout were made because ears weren't open and aware like they should have been.
It was a long day for sure.

I thought when Daddy got home it would ease up a bit like it usually does.
His presence does wonders.
But not today.
At supper time, the littles were fussy and decided to intertwine themselves with my legs in front of the hot stove. Something I'm not too fond of.....the hot + stove part that is.

I was done.
Worn out.
I felt defeated.
I knew though, that I had to fight back as the Moma, so I grabbed the first thing I could.
Coffee filters.
They just happened to be within reach.

Ah HAH!!!

Instant hat for ya!

Instant smiles.

Instant giggles.

Everyone got hats.

Even Moma and Daddy.

The mood changed immediately.

Even mine.

No more tears.

No more fussing.

No more whining.

We were ALL happy (-ier).

We ate and then played.

Til about 8:30 we played.

Sometimes the day will feel as if it's never going to end.

Sometimes I fee like I can't go one more minute.

Sometimes I wanna run to my room and shut the world out.

Sometimes my mind feels like it's going to fall to pieces.

And sometimes...

I let all the mess melt away because my blessings shine brighter than any cloudy day.

A Day for Cupcakes

2012-01-05T02:34:00.000-05:00

I woke up the other morning with the desire to make cupcakes with my girls. Something I've been hesitant to do due to lack of space. The girls usually like to wonder in two different directions which makes sense. They may be twins, but they think differently.

Ingredients for this adventure are:

A box of mix.

A tub of icing.

Two little girls

One patient Moma.

~~Two little dachshunds for the~~ Clean-up Crew

Hope didn't want to help at first. But I've said before, she's more of my outside lady.

She joined up eventually.

And this is when I realized I only own one whisk. I'll add that item to my "MUST BUY" list. Improvising with spoons for the moment. It worked!

Placing the liners was a tedious task. For them, not me. In and out they went...over and over. I think we can count to three now....in toddler language that is.

Once the liners were in their perfect manner, in went the batter. Now don't fret yall, I added the eggs and such after they had the chance to lick the batter off the spoons. I'm not for raw egg consumption and neither are they if I have a say so...which I do *smile*

Full admiration of the baking process. Lasted a whole 10 seconds.

We colored some cupcake pages and letter C's while we waited for the cupcakes to bake.

Nap time came before they could help with the icing. So I indulged myself with the task of lathering on the chocolaty goodness.

Mmmm...mmm!!!!

Savannah decided she wanted absolutely nothing to do with a food that was brown. I know they don't look as good as they taste so I didn't fight it. Hope was wanting to like it, but she just couldn't.

She tasted the icing and broke into tears. Big alligator tears. Like we took her...um...I can't even think of what would cause tears like these.

They were that big!!!

Mike talked to her, as if she could really grasp the dlightfullness of these wonders, and it worked.

She tried it again, with less icing, and enjoyed the rest of the treat she and her sister made.

What a day for cupcakes!!!

Rambles

2012-01-04T07:35:00.001-05:00

Today...well...I have nothing particular to mumble on about.

It's cold here this morning.

My babies are still in deep sleep comas.

My hands are warm thanks to my jar of coffee.

The dogs are snuggled on my side of the bed.

We have nothing planned out for the day.

I'll throw random up in the air and see if it fits us.

I'm sure it will.

Stories.

Music.

Painting.

Naps.

Snuggles.

Slippers.

I'm sure it will all occur some time or another. That's what cold days are for...to catch up on all the inside moments that are usually tucked away.

Anyhoo...

After I got the hubs off to work this morning, I dug into my own interventions. There's no better way, and I truly mean it, than to start your day off with a read or two from the word. I have no devotion right now, but that's ok.

I got a little lost in the midst of some vintage lovelies. I think I found my new piece to bring home.

My friend Leigha and her husband welcomed their new baby boy to the world last night. I'm so extremely thrilled for them and envious at the same time. What a blessing.

Mama and baby are doing wonderful and Leigha looks beautiful holding her new bundle.

I'm sure she'll be posting about it soon on her blog:

My Sweet Georgia Peaches

I think I officially have the baby bug and I'm not sure if it's going away anytime soon.

Oh, sweet prayers for this Moma heart of mine.

Love you guys!

Happy Wednesday!

What's In Store?

2012-01-03T13:51:00.001-05:00

Hi there!

Everyone has been rummaging through the baggage of 2011. Looking at regrets and accomplishments. And while I'm all for reminiscing the love, I guess I'd rather just say, It's a brand new day.

Things can't be added or taken away to moments passed...only lessons learned to face the new.

So...

Our last day of 2011.

We went to the park to play.

We admired two little free range chicks.

Free to soar.

Free to climb life's mountains.

Free to laugh at what lies in front of them.

Free to wonder the element of surprise.

And that's how it was.

Free

Free spirited,

Free of fear.

Free of doubt.

Free of worry.

Free of condemnation.

And that's how it will be.

Free

2012 is here and in the now.

We are thrilled to explore the journey that God has planned for us...

Freely.

What's in store?

Only He knows.

We're simply going to turn each page of our story as they're written and accept all that they tell.

..."plans to prosper you and not to harm you,

plans to give you hope and a future."

A Fresh Start

2012-01-02T13:39:00.002-05:00

We closed out 2011 with babies that were terrified of the loud fireworks. The sounds bounced around their room leaving them with all sorts of unsettled nerves. So, we got them up to bring in the new year. Why not?

We kicked off the year with a trip to the beach. What a welcome!

Blue skies, warm sun, a cool breeze and that salty air. It was amazing.

The girls dug right into the tradition...all smiles for the sticky sand.

Thanks to an attempt of a passer by, we got a typical family picture that's been long over due. We hoped for a good one, but we're thinking that will be a goal for this year:

To convince the girls the camera is not a scary thing.

We walked and walked just enjoying the masterpiece that was before us.

I think this is a tradition that might stick.

To a year full of amazing moments and bountiful hearts, farewell 2011. We're off to a fresh start.

A Step Closer

2011-12-30T01:28:00.000-05:00

Big girls. Almost 2, ya know.
Christmas in Florida brought the girls their new bikes. Thank you Nana & Pa.

Daddy put them together for them last night after they went to bed.
A few screws and a few clicks, and they were ready to ride.
They were waiting for them in the living room this morning.

In fact, they're still there.

All smiles and a tad of confusion with a small side of fear from one little.

But she finally tried it out.

We're still working on reaching the peddles. *smiles*

A few more inches on that big toe and they'd have it for sure.

One step closer to big girls. Tear.

Yesterday...

2011-12-29T07:27:00.000-05:00

...I worked my butt off at the gym. Cardio. Strength training. Abs...lots of abs.

This morning...I'm sore, but man do I feel good. This feeling is addicting.

...I made some beef sandwiches that I don't have a recipe for. We've had chicken the past couple of times I've cooked and I thought the hubs would like something other than a Bauk! Bauk! A thin cut, top sirloin was all I could dig out of the freezer so that was what I worked with. I concocted a marinade with some worchestire ( do you know how to spell that word?!?!) sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt and pepper, and a dash of liquid smoke. I made sandwich rolls using my hamburger bun recipe. Maybe I'll write this up to share with you because it turned out soooooo yummy. The hubs gave a big thumbs up!

...I talked to my Moma forever on the phone and realized once again that it's so sad when I have to leave her. She's such a fine lady, my Moma.

...I admired some lovelies on Etsy.

...I played my latest music selection, Leigh Nash, on my ipod. Sweet hymns.

...I got all the laundry washed and put away before the hubs got home. NEW RECORD!!!!
...I started looking for birthday ideas for the Little's that will be 2 soon. So cute, so big, so fast.

...I listened to the precious language between twin sisters. Jibber jabber at it's finest.
New words: Help, Sissy, Hope, Pa, Pa-Paw, Moma, Eat, Apple, Where'd she go?, Oh no!, Awh!, Drink, Baby, Grrrr!, No. *REMINDER - MUST PICK UP CAM-CORDER!*

...I conversed New Years plans with the hubs. Continuing lasts years happenings...beach walks on New Years Day. We like!

New Years Day 2011

...I watched the hubs put the Little's new bikes together after they ventured to dreamland. Christmas presents from Nana and Pa.

...I put my head on my pillow with full grasp of the blessings I have in my life. Thank you Lord!

How was your yesterday?

Source: likeasongofgrace.tumblr.com via Dot on Pinterest

A Christmas Story: 2011

2011-12-28T06:49:00.004-05:00

Such a wonderful Christmas vacation. We made our way south to soak up the Florida sun this Christmas. Perfect weather if you ask me.

Just like old Florida Christmas'...

Crisp air.
Cold Oysters.
Sibling jokes.
Classic!

We did nothing but enjoy the company of our family, the joy of the season, and the excitement that was being brewed right before our eyes.

Kids + Christmas = Loads of Joy!!!

The kids played...

And played...

And played some more...

Just roaming and going where ever their little feet would take them.

Christmas morning, we got up early and ventured down the road for our Christmas breakfast. Nana always makes a SO SO GOOD hash brown casserole that's gone before you realize it and an egg and ham casserole. The star of the show is the famous Jiggers she has made for years. Similar to a donut, but not a donut. If that makes sense.

You can see them right above...Pure Yummy!!!

After all bellies were full, we made way to the living room. My Bub read Luke 2...a family tradition. And then the girls went wild handing everyone presents, whether it was theirs or not.

So cute!

Afterwards, we headed back to Moma and Daddy's to do Christmas there. It didn't take the kids long to jump on the band wagon. They knew what to do and that was to tackle those wrapped boxes!

They were so excited with their gifts. Colton got some tools, a broom for his pretend shop, a tractor, and some wooden toys that the girls ended up playing with.

The girls, all of them, were back and forth showing everyone what they got. The big girls got their own purses and inside what-nots. And I'm guessing a bit of cash.

I think you can tell the quillows I made the nieces were a big hit. They wouldn't part with them for a minute.

Once the thrill of new presents wore off, everyone just played and enjoyed the rest of the day. My girls showed Grandmother how to work Colton's toy. Over and over and over.

We were serenaded by a toddler medley. So sweet!

We played inside as long as we could and then wandered out the front door to ~~burn some of that childish energy~~ enjoy the fresh air.

I think everyone had a great time. It's not often that we're together to enjoy just being with each other. So, we took full advantage of this time. And can you believe that all that time we were there, we managed to get not one single family picture. Can you believe that?!?
But look at everything that I did catch.

Smiles.

Happiness.

Joy.

Love.

I sure hope everyone was able to enjoy and soak up all the seasons blessings. It's such a wonderful time of year to remind us of the most important gift ever to be given.

Now to push through the new year with big bang and rock it on to 2012.

Christmas Wishes to All

2011-12-23T01:48:00.000-05:00

Hello Sweet friends!
We're off to do Christmas type things.
I thought I would share our Christmas dvd with you.
We gave this as gifts to our families this year.
So I hope you enjoy.
It's long.

Merry Christmas!!!
I'll be back next week!

Puppy Love

2011-12-22T13:40:00.000-05:00

I'm not quite sure if I've ever really cordially introduced you to the pups of the house.

The fur balls that stir up the house and keep us on our toes.

Oh...wait...that's the girls.

Ok, well the mongrels that keep our laps warm and bring smiles to our faces.

Well, that's the girls too.

Ok...I give up.

Meet our third and fourth children.

Bella Hank

Miss Bella is sassy. She's a quirky little dachshund that found her way into our lives through the looking glass at the pet store. I was a sucker for her puppy eyes and vivacious character. Looking back, I should've gotten her sister too. Who knows what ever happened to her. *tear*

This little dog is my baby girl. A surprise purchase for both Mike and myself on a Veterans Day a few years back....like apartment days way back. She made herself at home not only in the house but in our hearts as well. She can be a pain. She likes to bark. Not my favorite trait of hers, but she's a sweetie.

Mr. Hank. Oh, my sweet Hankie dog. He's a pill. He's goofy and spunk all wrapped into one little dog.

He will turn your gray skies blue, and open the curtains to let the sun shine in.

He's precious.

He came home with me a few weeks after my miscarriage. Not quite a replacement, but enough of a baby to softly ease the ache. He was my snuggler, my demand, my focus.

Isn't he a stud muffin!?!?

These kids make me laugh, they make me happy, they keep us entertained, and fill our house with loads and loads of laughter and joy...sounds like some other kiddos that roam our house. *wink*

So there you have it. The dogs. Our other kids. The ones that take up a little extra space in our hearts because they are, of course, so incredibly adorable and spunky.

Sweet Luvins!

A Jolly Old Elf

2011-12-21T06:38:00.000-05:00

A random visit from the local fire station.

Something to spark the cheer in our misfit neighborhood.

Sirens.

Lights.

Ho-Ho-Ho!'s

and a jolly old Elf.

Unsure about the unusual event, the girls stared the truck down with raised eyebrows.

We got a kick out of watching the other kids jump for joy at the sight of such legend.

The girls still drew back.

And like most cases (after the fact of the matter), as the truck made it's way out of the neighborhood,

I heard Hope softly whisper....

"Santa"

*sigh*

And something that really just got me all tickled up this week. The towel that my husband brought me. Stranded in the shower, cold and wet, and he brings me the girls frog hooded towel.

Gotta love him!!!!

Even funnier (to me that is) I'm still using it. Makes me smile every time I step out of the shower.

Introducing....

Savannah the Entertainer

Miss Hope .

Out of the blue.

A terrible meltdown.

No explanation.

No rhyme or reason.

Just tears.

A whole lot of 'em.

Savannah jumped on the opportunity to make her Sissy smile.

lollipops

All I Want for Christmas

2011-12-20T07:58:00.001-05:00

It's just a few things you see. Nothing over the top, with a small exception being made for number four on the list. They're a little pricey but so worth the splurge. My feet would be so graciously happy.

You see here. I didn't really make a Christmas list this year. My eyes have set themselves on some lovely admiration's, but I never quite created a list, that is until now. I did this more for fun, and aren't the colors just fun!?!?

Red Skirt, Mug, Boots, Clogs, Scarf, Suitcase, Clock, Owl, Buttons, Canister Set, Fabric

It's fun making a list of things like this. It didn't take very long to put together. A click here and there, to the left and to the right. Up and down. And before I knew it, I had a nice assortment of items all for myself.

But the truth is, none of these items will be sitting under my tree this year. Maybe for my birthday now that I've sparked some ideas, but not for Christmas. Because you see, I have my gift already. I was anxious and opened it early. Way early, like a few years ago early.

Inside that gift box was some real, lasting, and life changing. The gift of forgiveness, love from a Savior, and everlasting life.This gift is the most precious anyone could ever receive and while my box might have seemed empty to others around me, it was full beyond measure.

"For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16

Our wish for you this year is to not be afraid of His gift that He sent for you. That you may stop looking at your life through a microscope and analyzing it for what you don't have.
Look at what you do have...

Life
Family
Friends
and most importantly...The blessing of the Lord

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" Philippians 4:4
Take that gift you've received and share it with others this season.
Share His good news.
For a Savior was born to save.
Merry Christmas!!