The Bradley's

Many apologies, gratitude, and a giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 24 May 2011 01:00:00 +0000

#1 - I'm a bad blogger. I really wanted to use this blog to highlight our family and not my terrible moods. So I'm extremely sorry for my last post. I won't delete it, because I'm a real person and real people have fits.

#2 - Thank you Abby and Megan. Abby, I love your blog. I love being a little part of your life. I hope that one day I can meet you. Megan - my friend. Funny - I know you virtually also but we have such a kinship that I hope lasts forever. People like you don't just happen to me.

#3 - MyBlogSpark sent me a package to give-a-way forever and a day ago. I have been so entwined in the "Nobody cares" attitude that I really didn't want to write the post. But I'm going to. Because its a commitment and I'm not a quitter. I want to breathe new life into this blog. This post is a new beginning.

As a child, I loved books. As an adult, I feel I have very little time for fictional or non-fictional literature. I've been hugely disappointed in movies that I have experienced through my vivid imagination via the pages of a book.

I remember the Young Authors contests that we had at my school. I won first place for the "scariest" Halloween story one year. Don't ask - I can't even remember remotely what it was about but I'm sure that the paper is still tucked away in a box at my mom's marked "4th grade stuff."

My Paige is a WONDERFUL reader and story teller. She loves to read to Marshall and it is comical when he argues with her about what the book says.

Cheerios cereal has sponsored a dynamic New Author Contest program that will make authorship dreams come true for one lucky writer of a children's story by including their manuscript in Cheerios boxes and a publishing deal with Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing - and $5000.00!

March 22 - July 15, 2011, you can visit http://www.spoonfulsofstoriescontest.com/ to see if you have the "write stuff" to win this prize!

My kids are TOTALLY excited...because Cheerios through MyBlogSpark sent us a package that included a box of Cheerios that included the Cheerios 2009 New Author Contest winner Laurie Isop's book How Do You Hug a Porcupine? - AND a fantastic "create your own book" kit!! This is going to be a fantastic activity for this summer, so it has carefully been packed away in my crafting supplies - forgotten by the kids, but remembered fondly by me for when school is out!

So, thanks to Cheerios through MyBlogSpark, I can give away (1) identical prize pack to (1) lucky reader!!

This give-a-way will be FAST because it MUST be submitted tomorrow!!! So tell all of your friends, share on Facebook, and leave a comment!!

Methods of entry for this give-a-way are as follows (1 entry for each comment!!):

What is your MOST FAVORITE timeless children's classic? What do you think makes it so special?

If you were to write a children's book, what would you write about? Would it be about a lonely oak tree living in a forest? Would it be about Steve the policeman (Hi Steve!!)? You tell me!!

Share about this give-a-way and leave me a comment saying that you did! You can tweet it, Facebook it, blog about it, email it - spread the word and lets get some imagination flowing from the fingers of our friends for our children!!

This give-a-way will close on Tuesday, May 24, 2011 at 12:00 noon central time!! I must receive your information by 4:00 pm on May 24, 2011, so be sure to leave your email address and check it for the announcement of the winner NO LATER than 1:00 pm central!

Thanks again to Cheerios through MyBlogSpark for this opportunity to share about a program that will keep my children's imaginations alive. And for being one of our favorite breakfast treats. Seriously...

A Tad Bit of Bitterness...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 17:56:00 +0000

Disclaimer - major whine fest. Proceed at your own risk and with caution.

I can't even think of a name for this blog post. I have a lot to cover in very little time, so hold on tight.

First off, Happy 9th Birthday Paige Alyson Bradley!!

I'm only a month late.

I've been MIA. I haven't wanted to face the world, let alone write down the pathetic days that I've had. I feel like my entire life has been set up for failure. And just a minute ago, I relived some of those times, and quite frankly, it makes me mad. So don't take it personally, but I'm fed up.

I'm sick of playing the game of everything being fine and when you ask me, that's what I say, right? Well...

I think that everybody has seasons in life when they want so much more, and right now, I'm totally empty and no one is hearing me. I feel like God has abandoned me for whatever reason - and I know in my SOUL that He hasn't but it doesn't help this feeling. At all. Walking alone sucks.

Seeing everything that has gone wrong for me lately - including a job that makes me a crazy woman that could probably be clinically committed - I'm just tired.

I don't think that a lot of people understand how hurtful empty words are. Sometimes, they hurt even more than being called names or being told that you're worthless. Honestly, I'd rather you just completely ignore me than act like you care but never show it. Bitterness has manifested and I don't want to feel this way. But I can't help it.

So prayers are coveted...

Not a shopping trip...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 04:47:00 +0000

For the last 3 days I've been saying to myself, "I NEED to post my shopping trip from Saturday!!"

But I'm putting it off...for a little while longer :)

I just wanted to stop in and let you know that Abby over at Little Miss Martha is hosting a giveaway! I love her blog...its real...no smoke and mirrors...no conforming to what some mega blogs are doing (that's my word - mega blogs...yes I follow a few, I will admit that, but sometimes I just want to step into worlds like Abby's).

I love following blogs like that. Maybe that's why it doesn't bother me that my "following" doesn't grow by outrageous numbers. This is my own little piece of the web that I can just be laid back. I know that I apologize often for not blogging daily...or twice a week...or sometimes twice a month...but I always come back.

And you're there too. Aren't you? Anyone? (HA!)

So, if you can, hop on over and visit Abby. She's even hosting a great little giveaway HERE. Who couldn't use a $25.00 giftcard to Target? But don't stop there - dive into her blog...and enjoy it...

And PS - she needs some help. With her living room that is. I'm no good at that stuff - I hate to admit it, but Justin has the eye for home decor (blush).

Much love all - I'll be back. Don't go anywhere. Really. I'll miss you dearly if you do.

Are you still there? ;o)

Weekly Budget Review - Are we eating for $1 Per Day?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 19 Feb 2011 03:47:00 +0000

This is my weekly budget review from last week. With a prelude.

I haven't posted because I'm a huge party pooper at the Bradley House and I'm just plum tired.

I didn't really do much shopping last weekend - the stores were crazy and I'm huge party pooper on the shopping front and I'm just plum tired.

I haven't done laundry all week, and I've neglected picking up pretty much anything around the house because I'm a huge party pooper and I'm just plum tired.

Dishes have been done, however. I can't live with sinks full of dirty dishes. It drives me nuts. The kids have been sick and at one point I realized that I actually did 2 full FULL loads in the dishwasher in one day. It took all I had to wash out my new fabulous espresso machine daily because I'm a huge party pooper and I'm just plum tired.

I'm not a morning person. But somehow I continue to every single morning drag my beaten and worn out body straight out of bed and begin my day with a quick - too quick - prayer to beg God to get me through just one more day so that I can get to bed early that night because I'm a huge party pooper and just plum tired.

And God has a huge sense of humor.

He wakes me up every morning at 4:55 instead of allowing the horrible buzzing of the alarm clock snoozed way too many times by Justin at 5:15 to wake me up.

I get busy right away - the fast pace of my job makes the first almost two hours fly by.

Then I receive the most beautiful love letter from my God written in the sunrise, painted with colors that no artist can recreate.

Its then that I realize that God makes sure that I hear from Him in these moments. That I can see Him, feel Him, hear Him, smell Him, touch Him, and live for the next wonder that He chooses to share with me.

Its then that I realize that though I'm a huge party pooper, though I would rather be in bed at 8:30 every night, though I'd rather sleep in until 8:00, though I would love to stumble in the darkness before dawn in a clean and tidy house, though I'd rather not be just plum tired...

God provides all that I need and then some. He's pretty awesome like that.

And I'm ever so thankful that He wakes me in time to read His love letters everyday.

This week was pretty light on the deals. I got our necessities and had the opportunity to stock back up on some of our non-perishables.

WalMart

Before sales and coupons, I would have paid $13.53. I saved a whole dollar and paid $12.53. Don't laugh. What kind of savings is that? About 8%

Aldi - and I can't find my receipt anywhere. I ran into a sweet gal I used to work with and there's no telling what I did with it while we were talking in the parking lot. I think it was $4.00(ish)...hmmm...AND, I'd already stuck the bread in the freezer...explains why it looks the way it does, ha!

Walgreen's
Before sales and coupons, I would have paid $54.58. I was able to get it all for $9.98, which is a savings of 82%, plus I have a $3.00 register reward to spend tomorrow...which is shopping day...ha!

Target
Before sales and coupons, I would have paid $44.72, but I was able to get it all for $16.76, a savings of 63%

Happy Birthday Marshall!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 00:36:00 +0000

Today is Marshall's 5th birthday! Yes, 5 years ago at this time, my water had been broken and I was preparing for my epidural. Little did we know, 5 hours and 15 minutes later, we would have a bouncing baby boy that was 10 pounds 11 ounces!!

We celebrated Marshall's birthday yesterday with a Superbowl theme. Marshall is all boy and was super excited for his football cake.

We always get Paige a gift, too. And for her birthday, Marshall will receive one. That way, she can join in on the opening fun.

Marshall is super content with just a Nerf gun. Trust me. But we threw in his very own pillow pet and a super cool RC car.

Justin tried to video tape the festivities - but luckily I had the camera. He's a little to inpatient to check out the tape and make sure that he's not recording over our wedding video (throwback to Everybody Loves Raymond)

After enjoying some cake - the Nerf festivities began...and it was WAR.

Um...this is Marshall's birthday, right??

And as with any Nerf war at the Bradley House - tears were eminent.

I did, however, get a picture with my baby boy. I love being his mom. I love that the Father has entrusted me with this sweet child. I'm thankful to have a son who says he will live with me forever. And I know that there is a very special little girl out there right now that will one day be his wife. I pray that her parents teach her to guard her heart and save herself for him. I pray that he will grow to be a loving godly man, and that he will love Jesus more than he loves anything else (including me, ha!). Thank you, Justin, for giving me this piece of us to sneak kisses to when he really doesn't want them. And thank you Marshall, for letting me be your mom.

Happy Birthday, Marshall Pearse Bradley!

Weekly Budget Review - Are we eating for $1 Per Day?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 06 Feb 2011 20:19:00 +0000

Now that the holidays are over and life has somewhat gotten back to normal, I'll be posting again for our weekly budget review. However, I will just be sharing photos of my weekly haul, the price before coupons, and the amount saved - everyone in agreement? Good :)

Schnucks

Before sales and coupons, I would've paid $104.46. I was able to get it all for $24.08 for a savings of 77%

Aldi

Paid $4.69

Walgreens

Before sales and coupons, I would have paid $19.80. I was able to get it all for $6.20, a 65% savings, plus I received a $5.00 Register Reward for next week

Country Mart

Before sales and coupons, I would've paid $12.28, but I was able to get it for $8.78, a savings of 28%.

Target

Before sales and coupons, I would have paid $26.67, but I was able to get it for $7.03, a savings of 74%.

WalMart

Before coupons, I would have paid $13.88, but I was able to get it for $6.38, a savings of 54%.

Are you eating for $1 per day this week?

My Laundry Room

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 06 Feb 2011 04:54:00 +0000

I had such good intentions.

I even put the button on my blog.

But I only completed one of the challenges.

Beneath My Heart has had an organization party for the last few weeks. I had a plan. I was going to participate. And then...LIFE happened.

But I am VERY excited to say that with Justin's help, we completed one of the challenges. This week, we actually organized our (small) laundry room. You're about to see why we needed this so very very badly...!!

Before, I always just threw rags up in my little plastic tub. Before, I stuffed bottles of laundry soap and fabric softener on the top of the water heater. I stuffed all kinds of weird stuff up on the one lone wire shelf above the washer and dryer.

Say goodbye to that horrible mess that made me crazy every time I did laundry. And say hello to my new shelves...

That's solid oak, ladies and gentlemen. Trust me. Its sturdy. I could probably store one of the children in there.

So I know, its not a huge amazing transformation that you'll see on some of the other links from Beneath My Heart. But its mine. And it makes me happy :)

Random Observation...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 02:39:00 +0000

Yesterday, I went grocery shopping - like I normally do on Saturday. I have a random observation for you that I took away from my trip.

I've noticed in the past couple of weeks all of the sweet old(er) couples (Justin told me to say elderly - so PC correction), ELDERLY couples shopping together.

It makes my heart melt.

So after leaving Aldi, I told Justin that I couldn't wait to grow old with him. Then I said that I could "wait" but that it was going to be wonderful.

God blesses us with our soul mate. I believe everyday that Justin is mine. I know that through everything that this life has thrown at us (and it seems never ending) there's always joy because I can walk through each day with him by my side.

Sometimes, it makes me sad to think about Matthew 22:28. I wish that I knew what Jesus meant when He addressed marriage and how we'd be like the angels. I've read that angels are so very interested in the workings of marriage because that is something that they don't have. I can sometimes imagine when Justin & I are having those deep conversations and sharing our hearts with each other late at night that there's an angel - listening ever so carefully, soaking in everything that we say.

I'm grateful. Humble. Undeserving.

I hope that all of you readers have the incomparable joy in your marriage - even in the tough times - that we have. Imperfections...yes...but imperfect, no.

(Photo Credit)

PS readers - pray for the Graviett family. Mr. Roy died today.

Lazy weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 00:09:00 +0000

We've had a pretty lazy weekend at the Bradley House - grocery shopping yesterday and enjoying Netflix today. Justin was afraid that it would start snowing so we didn't go to church today.

I have projects to share - as I mentioned a couple of posts ago (like the repainting of our computer desk) but quite honestly, the door STILL hasn't been put back on. I hate starting something an not getting it finished. I drives me crazy...eats at my inner core...runs my life...you get the picture.

The crowds in town were outrageous yesterday. We're still utilizing coupons and feeding our family for $1 per person per day. I just honestly do not have the time to blog about all of my trips. Its a commitment that I just cannot make.

Both of my boys got haircuts today - Justin took care of Marshall - then I took care of Justin. It was hilarious, after his cut was complete, he picked up the vacuum...and proceeded to vacuum the hair off of his body. I have pictures. I can't share them. Justin's a little too modest.

I hope that everyone has had a wonderful weekend. I'd like to leave some link love:

At the Well

Everyday Adventures (This is written by a gal' that graduated a few years before me back in Willow Springs)

Rejoice and be Glad

Sorta Crunchy

Happy reading, hope you enjoy!!

Post attempt number 2

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 00:19:00 +0000

I had a whole post written and decided not to publish it. To avoid confrontation.

(sigh)

Be forewarned, I'm rather grumpy today.

I've been blog surfing for the last few hours. Just looking for some additional excellent reading material written by random people all across the country. I found a few. They've been added to my reading list. I just can't get enough sometimes.

Can I vent now? Have I been nice for a whole paragraph??

I want to be a stay at home mom. I want to be with my kids. I want to homeschool. I want...I want...I want...

I don't feel any better. I go through this Every.Single.Year. This year is worse, because Marshall will be starting school in August. I wish that we had everything paid off and that Justin's clientele was built to the point that we could visit the subject of me quitting and not working at all.

I know that some of you don't agree with me and that's okay. Read my disclosure policy...

My mom told me when Paige was little that the reason she's on my nerves so much is because I'm not with her all the time. I also feel like the reason that my kids are the way they are is because they've had to go to school. And I'm not saying school is bad. Paige has an excellent teacher this year - and she has had some real...um...disappointing ones in the past. I love the preschool education that both of the kids have gotten.

I just want so much more for them...

PS...Justin, don't kill me for writing this. You know that I'm grouchy today...

Walk with me though this week

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 02:46:00 +0000

First off, I"m not much on New Year resolutions. Just putting that out there -

But I do love lists and goals and writing stuff down. Even if I only have a mental list, it feels so good to mark something as done.

Everything I've started this year...1/2 done.

We repainted our computer desk, and when/if I can get this MESSY house back together, you'll see pics. I do love it. And thanks to Mark that Justin works with, we were able to move it because we are the proud parents of a "new to us" wireless router. Thank you for the congratulations, we're very proud.

Justin has the plans ALL DRAWN UP for my closet organizer. Baskets, rods, shelves, can't wait!!!

I haven't grocery shopped in weeks. I mean, I've picked up a few things here and there, but I haven't shopped. I've kept up with all of my coupons - speaking of, have you seen Extreme Couponing on TLC? I'm unsure how I feel. I was very apprehensive to go to Walgreen's last Sunday for fear that all of the Finish Dishwashing Detergent would be gone.

Yes, an exciting life I lead...

This week has been R-O-U-G-H. I'm dog-tired. As in my left eye is twitching. I need a rest. I need to rest in Him. Its been a while. The ribbon marker in my Bible hasn't moved since before the holidays.

Which brings me to a stopping point in my walk this week.

Andrea is one of our pastor's daughters. Her blog is conversational - happenings in her life. I know how she feels. I can relate. I actually read one of her posts the other night and cried. I cried because I feel like I've been cheated in this life because my mom & dad didn't care about my spiritual growth. I don't want my kids to know that feeling.

I had no idea that the next destination for stopping this week would be tragic.
I received a Facebook message that a very close friend of my ex-husband was killed in a car accident Monday. I spoke with his wife Tuesday. My heart hurts for her because I know how very deeply I love my Justin...and she lost the same relationship abruptly, tragically, and without reason. It was an accident. In that moment, she became a widow, and her 2 young children will never see their father come home from work again. Pray specifically peace, comfort and strength.

Stopping point number 3 happened tonight. I received a phone call from Paige's BFF's mother...

Our daughters are being bullied. And Paige didn't tell me. That hurts...why didn't she talk to me? Have I failed? Is this linked back to my first stop of the week? What am I doing wrong?

Sigh...

I love my family. I want to do better for them. I want to do better for myself. But ultimately, I want God to smile. Not just because He loves me, but because He knows that I'm giving Him my best. Tragedy will happen, and God's most very perfect plan in that time is misunderstood. I have suffered heartache that I never want my children to experience. But sometimes, to show us that all we have to do is rely on Him, God allows those things. And I won't ask why...

Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (but not for my winner!!)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 22:50:00 +0000

Have you ever read this book? Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. Ask me how my day was.

I have a very very very very very very very very very very stressful day job. Really. Do I need to explain how exhausted I am?

But, when I picked up my kids from school, you know what they said?

"Mom, I love you very much."

"I love you too mommy."

"I miss you when you're gone."

Priceless. I beat myself up a lot because I'm a terrible disorganized mess at home. I have plans to have menus posted (and I even tried to MAKE myself post them on this blog), but lately, I struggle to have time to sit down and just BREATHE.

The kids have cabin fever. I have cabin fever.

Don't take me shopping, give me sunshine. Green grass. Flowers blooming and birds singing.

It seems that I want winter to come to have those warm cozy feelings, and then suddenly after January begins, I want to break out my Martha magazines, lawn books, plan my (super small) veggie garden, and just go O-U-T-S-I-D-E.

Winter seems to be the time when my stress levels skyrocket. I get the most headaches. My housekeeping suffers.

And days like this, well, they just make me want to crawl into bed and sleep for days. I probably could.

But instead, Paige went as soon as I asked and grabbed her copy of Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. So right now, we're going to read it. Giggles from two toe-headed kids will ease my mind. And I'll remember why I have a job that I very much DO like so that I can be home when they leave and when they get home from school. Though there will be these Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Days, I'm still mommy first.

PS, congrats to

Anonymous said...: I tweeted it on my twitter @shelias***** sheliamoore2@*****.com Expect an email from me - you will have 48 hours from 5:00 PM Central time 1/4/11 to claim your prize or a new winner will be chosen. Thanks to everyone for entering and spreading the word. Think of all of the people who will be touched because you cared enough. And thanks to Hamburger Helper through MyBlogSpark for the great giveaway.

*This post contains an Affiliate Link*

CLOSED Giveaway Ends Tonight 1/3!!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 22:34:00 +0000

Don't forget to enter the giveaway!! Comment away HERE!

Happy January 1, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 02 Jan 2011 02:06:00 +0000

Yeah, I just wanted to be a little different.

I had BIG HUGE plans for today. And guess what I did. I finished 1 1/2 loads of laundry while Justin & kids sat and watched Netflix via Wii all day. Oh yeah, and I napped. For hours. I had a headache. And no, I didn't party too hard last night. We stayed home. All my fav peeps together and struggling to stay up until the ball dropped. It was a horrendous evening once the kiddos reached the "past tired" point.

All in all, I've been barking orders since I awoke from my midday slumber. There are things that I'm itching to get started on for our home - I want Justin to make this:

(Photo courtesy of The Nester)

Love it...and, we're going to paint & move our computer desk. I think I will use the chocolate brown from the kitchen to paint it with, but it will remain in the living room. Just in a totally different, more reasonable place.

2011 is exciting for me. I got a whole slew of crafting junkola for Christmas from the wonderfully sweet, always believes in and supports me Justin. Sometimes I think he does it just 'cause he doesn't want me to pout. But I think its because he really does want me to find my niche.

I hope, anyway :)

Hope everyone has had a wonderful first day of 2011. Can't wait to spend the rest of the year with you!

CLOSED What have been up to? I think I'll post a giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 30 Dec 2010 20:59:00 +0000

Holy guacamole...December is busy.

And it hasn't calmed down AT ALL.

I'm just got off work. I kicked Paige off the computer to write to you. Write to you and post a giveaway that I've needed to do. Since forever ago...

My brain is mush. Forgive the dryness in my words. Really. I'm having a hard time remembering where all of the keys are on the keyboard. Backspace is getting a real workout. That key's a little bigger than the others anyway - its just a jump start on the big B's 2011 resolution. There it goes again...nice workout today.

Hamburger Helper through MyBlogSpark, however, needs to tell you something. Whether the big B gets overworked while this post is written or not...just sayin'.

All kidding aside now, time to be serious.

Have you ever been hungry? (Now, I'm not talking about going to the cabinet and saying "no" the the 874 different options that you have to shove something in your mouth out of sheer boredom, okay...)

5.7 million people receive emergency food assistance from Feeding America any given week.

Wow.

Hamburger Helper has teamed up with Tim McGraw (yes, you know Tim McGraw - married to Faith Hill...the Grammy winner Tim McGraw) to deliver millions of meals to local food banks through the Show Your Helping Hand campaign. Click here to view the PSA.

You can support the campaign by submitting codes from specially marked boxes of Hamburger Helper at www.showyourhelpinghand.com or by logging on to make a donation.

By participating in this giveaway - Hamburger Helper has donated $10 to Show Your Helping Hand.

And, they gave me a pretty cool prize pack, too.

Yes, that's food. And a foam hand for the kids. And a Tim McGraw CD for...well, for you. Because here's your chance to win an identical prize.

Leave a comment - How are you going to encourage others to submit codes and help feed all of the hungry people out there?

This contest will begin today, December 30, 2010 and run until 11:59 pm Central time, January 3, 2011. The winner will be chosen by Random.org and will be notified on January 4, 2011 by me via email and posted as a winner on this blog. After confirmation of the offer and a valid mailing address and phone number is received, I will send your information to MyBlogSpark to be shipped directly. Thanks again to Hamburger Helper through MyBlogSpark for this great giveaway! Good Luck!!!

Okay big B button - time for a water break. Or a nap. I'm sorry you've been overworked, but I had to do it. Its good for you.

Bradley Family Photos 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 18:29:00 +0000

Included in most of our Christmas cards this year - enjoy!

Quick Christmas Tour 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 20:59:00 +0000

I finally got a few pics together today - they aren't the best quality, but just some quick snapshots!! HA!

I hope you enjoy - and check out the other homes at The Nester and at Kelly's Korner Blog.

Our tree (FULL of Christmas magic of all kinds!!)

A quick little wreath that I did up for our front door (bow gets smashed every.single.night)

Lamp

Santa checking up on the kids...well, in pictures anyway (this is a brief "good" moment for them both)

Living room

The Advent calendar - first thing the kids do when they get home is turn today's box around

Our stockings

The dining room (AKA my office - the messy desk on the left of the pic)

Justin did this for me, isn't it BE-AUTIFUL?

I picked up this book at a garage sale...and filled my punch bowl with cheap-o ornaments

Lights in the main bathroom

Also in the main bathroom - I say this is Paige & Marshall :)

The only touch of Christmas in our bedroom...

Well, almost the only touch - I'll be glad to clear this all out!!

Our bathroom - I was trying to hide, can you find me?

Paige's little tree

Marshall's tree - complete with singing Elmo, and a random clown - his addition!!

Hope you enjoyed a brief look at our house - make sure you check out all of the absolutely beautiful homes at The Nester and Kelly's Korner Blog!

Happenings

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 00:50:00 +0000

Wow, I haven't blogged in a while.

I changed by template last night, though. Did you notice? And, I'm trying to get a new header & button - a little less amateur looking.

I've been reading and reading blogs since I've been on my little hiatus. I actually started working in a new position and its taking some getting used to. My blog schedule has completely been sidetracked and put on the back burner. I'm off this week and I have SO much to do. I wanted badly to participate in all of the Christmas Home Tour linky's all over the blogosphere, but its just not going to happen...on schedule anyway. We finished up our shopping today and Justin has been off. I have 2 & 1/2 days all to myself for the rest of the week. I have a lot that I wish to accomplish!!!

I bought my first bottle of Mod Podge today. I know, I know...its amazing that I've relied so much on the "stuff" that I can pick up for $20 at Hob Lob or Trees & Trends and never attempted to do my own. This bottle has a specific use planned - Ashley over at Our Happily Ever Afters posted pics, and I fell in love with this:

(Photo Courtesy of Our Happily Ever Afters)

Isn't it just the sweetest? Ours will be a little different and Justin actually cut a board for me and I cannot wait to get started. After this past week, we need rules posted. I don't know if its the anticipation of Christmas or what, but my kids have been little monsters...

BUT....I have come to a realization that I'm very happy to have.

I really like being domestic.

Do I confuse you? Because probably, my post about the Manhattan lifestyle makes you think otherwise. I just realized after this weekend that I don't like living fast. Does that make sense? I actually would rather curl up on my couch than be out until 1 in the morning. I would rather wear an apron instead of high heels (that may not actually be 100% true, because I don't own an apron and do LOVE heels, but you get the point). I baked all day yesterday. I missed spending that time in my kitchen.

And you know what?

Justin said that he likes me best this way, too.

So I will try my HARDEST...not to complain about not having time to keep up with laundry, housework, and meals...and just make the time. Yes, hunny, I love you.

Now, if I can just survive the next 2 weeks...

Show Me Your Stockings!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 19:23:00 +0000

Abby over at Little Miss Martha is hosting a Link Party - Show Me Your Stockings!

I wanted to participate in this one since I missed out yesterday, we don't have a mantle (and how much does that SUCK for me??).

This is the first year with our TV cabinet - usually we hung stockings on the windowsill or from the top of our book cabinet. I actually really like them here, but it can interfere with the remote (we watch too much TV anyway, right hunny?)

Do you want to show off your own stockings? Head on over to Little Miss Martha and join the par-tay! Her linky is open December 1st-5th!

Dreams of Lifestyle

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 18:38:00 +0000

My Justin knows that I have these romantic dreams of Manhattan and living this glorious lifestyle of the DuPonts and Rockefellers.

I know, I know, dreaming a little big, eh?

I've never been to NYC. I want to go desperately. I cannot wait until we are in a position to go and be carefree...stay at The Waldorf Astoria, walk through Central Park, stand in awe at Times Square, shop...and shop...and shop...and shop...

I have a subscription to Town & Country Magazine. I pour over every single page.

Last month, there was an article about The Knickerbocker Greys. I had no idea that these little guys (and gals) existed. As I read the lines, I could see my Marshall in my mind. I instantly felt my heart well with the dream of the NYC lifestyle. Is it everything that I imagine? I'm sure its not. I'm sure that there are folks living there that say they would love to live in the Midwest.

So today, I will share NYC photos from the web. I hope that you enjoy...any blog links for Manhattan or NYC blogs are welcome!

(Photo Courtesy of The Knickerbocker Greys)

(Photo Courtesy of WallPaperWeb.Org)

(Photo Courtesy of Away)

(Photo Courtesy of Rockefeller Center Office Space)

(Photo Courtesy of New York City Guide)

(Photo Courtesy of movieplaces)

Melody Meets Martha - A New Series!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 20:50:00 +0000

This is by far my favorite time of year, and even though holiday weeks stress me out (shown clearly by my non-posting last week!), I enjoy knowing that I can put together something enjoyed by my family and friends.

I also really love Martha Stewart - sick, I know. I'm by far not as organized or detail oriented as she is, but just the way everything looks amazes me. So, even though my recipes, crafts, organizing, decorating and cleaning may differ...greatly...from this woman, I have decided to embark on sharing some of my recipes and livings - some inspired by Martha and others that our family loves.

There will not be a schedule for this series, you'll just need to check back often - and in the mean time, you can enjoy "50 Beautiful Blogs to Make Your Home More Like Martha's" which has some really great resources. I poured over this page, linking from blog to blog and found some new loves. I hope that you do too!

I hope that you'll join me in the days to come for my first Melody Meets Martha post. I'm hoping to learn something in my research, and be able to offer links of love to you. I'd love it if you'd post your "Martha-type" blog links on this post!

So get your pinking shears and cupcake tins ready - this will be an adventure!

Chocolate-Peppermint Cookies

(Photo courtesy of yours truly - Yes, this is my finished product! If you use this photo, please link back.)

Menu Plan Monday - Week of November 29

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 18:45:00 +0000

Thanks for visiting for our weekly Menu!! This post is part of Menu Plan Monday at OrgJunkie.com.

We are feeding our family on $1 per person per day - with as very little eating out as possible. We will have slip ups, but as a family of 4 working to pay off our consumer debt, we are dedicated to as many home-cooked meals as possible.

Monday: Meatloaf, Corn, Mashed Potatoes, Rolls

Tuesday: Fried Deer Steak, Beef flavored Rice, Green Beans

Wednesday: Hot Dogs

Thursday: Dinner With The Finley's (Financial Peace University night)

Friday: Breakfast Friday!! Sausage & Pancakes

Saturday Lunch: Sweet & Sour Chicken & Rice

Saturday Dinner: Kettle Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Rolls

Sunday Lunch: Crock Pot Deer Meat, Noodles, Green Beans

Sunday Dinner: Taco Bake

We always plan our weekly menu on our current stock of food. This is how we can most reliably feed our family on a minimal amount of money!

Brand Loyalty - 5 a day for $1 a day...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 21:06:00 +0000

In my experiences shopping, I find that there are just some things that I can't "stray" from. I'm sure that you've seen from my Budget Review posts that I will buy multiple brands of some items. But there are others that it really just doesn't matter if I'm getting a great deal, I have to have only my favorite.

So, almost 2 months ago, I decided that I would express my brand loyalty to our favorite manufacturers. So I threw open the cabinets, freezers, and fridge and started taking a good hard look at the products that we have. Immediately, I knew that there were some that were questionable...and others that were not!

Part of our $1 Per Day Challenge is that we do have to be somewhat flexible. We love Scott Brand Toilet Tissue, but when couponing, you have to determine what your rock bottom price is and stock up when you find it. The problem here in our home is that I just recently started using coupons again (about 4 months ago) after taking a 6 month hiatus. We still had some non-perishables, but for the most part, I was starting all over. I've been having to compromise on what brands I can buy while sticking to the modest budget we've set.

And knowing how hard coupons are to come by for some of our favorites, I decided that I would do a fun little experiment. In 4 weeks, I emailed the manufacturers of 100 different products. These items were all already in our home, and were being used (I know that sometimes, couponing strategies included getting whatever you can for a cheap cheap price, but that's generally not how I roll, haha!)

This was tedious and time consuming, but we have reaped the rewards. Not only was I able to be open and honest about our feelings, I received some very welcoming comments, literature, recipes, and freebies. I received several phone calls and a wonderful response from the President of Rhodes Bake-N-Serv.

One thing, however, that did not impress me was the "form letter" responses. You see, blogging has become such a huge part of the social internet that some companies are almost rude when they receive a letter that you are a blogger. I think it is unfortunate, because my real intentions were not to receive any coupons, free products, or a PR relationship...it was to actually establish the fact that we, as a family on a budget, can still be loyal to our favorite brands.

All in all, this has been a very good experience for me. I hope that there have been relationships established with manufacturers because of this venture. And I hope that this post will encourage you to not only save money, but to remember that companies, especially small ones, do appreciate your business.

(Photo courtesy of Rut Buster)

WINNER Michael Chiarello's Bottega & Progresso!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 03:29:00 +0000

Thanks to all who entered!! My winner was picked by Random.org, and the winner is:

Comment #1!!

eclairre said...
I want to try to make the recipe Angry Shrimp with Tuscan White Beans.

Congratulations!!! You have until 9:30 pm on November 24, 2010 to claim your prize!!

What's in Your Mailbox?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 14:00:00 +0000

Shame on me...I didn't do this post last week!!

This will actually be the final edition.

This week we got magazines. A Lot.

(And believe it or not, we didn't pay for any of them!)

How? Through links like This One.

What's in your mailbox?

The Bradley's

Many apologies, gratitude, and a giveaway!

A Tad Bit of Bitterness...

Not a shopping trip...

Weekly Budget Review - Are we eating for $1 Per Day?

Happy Birthday Marshall!

Weekly Budget Review - Are we eating for $1 Per Day?

My Laundry Room

Random Observation...

Lazy weekend

Post attempt number 2

Walk with me though this week

Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (but not for my winner!!)

*CLOSED* Giveaway Ends Tonight 1/3!!

Happy January 1, 2011

*CLOSED* What have been up to? I think I'll post a giveaway!

Bradley Family Photos 2010

Quick Christmas Tour 2010

Happenings

Show Me Your Stockings!

Dreams of Lifestyle

Melody Meets Martha - A New Series!

Menu Plan Monday - Week of November 29

Brand Loyalty - 5 a day for $1 a day...

*WINNER* Michael Chiarello's Bottega & Progresso!

What's in Your Mailbox?

CLOSED Giveaway Ends Tonight 1/3!!

CLOSED What have been up to? I think I'll post a giveaway!

WINNER Michael Chiarello's Bottega & Progresso!