The Story of the Sparkman's

Catching Up and Summer Kick Off

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Wed, 23 May 2012 03:47:00 +0000

For memory's sake (my own especially, since it's touch and go lately), I wanted to do a quick post of the happenings with the kiddos these days.
We had our last 1st grade field trip to the Children's Museum and the little girls enjoyed it just as much as the big kids.

AC's spring soccer wrapped with their team, mainly 7 and 8 year olds, playing in the 10 year old girls' tournament and tying in both games...they were great!

Reason 10,999 my husband is my hero: when he sees that I am burning the candle at both ends and need a break, he arranges for a much needed long weekend at the beach.

This picture sums up our crew so well these days...the big kids deep into a project, LJ practicing somersaults, MC enthralled with her shadow....

Lollipops and a movie made the drive home much more enjoyable for all

We got home just in time to collapse into bed and make it to school today for awards and the last day of 1st grade!

We celebrated the kick- off of summer with s'mores and firefly catching after dinner tonight

Poor MC was able to enjoy her treat despite a hornet sting right above her eye...

Bring on summer!

Children's Rooms

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Thu, 17 May 2012 10:59:00 +0000

When the little girls were born and our family doubled in size, we did a lot of switching of rooms to better accommodate everyone.

Brian loves orange, for Tennessee Vols of course, and wanted an orange room, so we compromised by using it with more neutral colors to keep it toned down.

We recently separated his bunk beds to twin beds and everyone is much happier....changing the sheets on bunk beds is torture.

Anna Cate's room came together thanks to a friend who was in the process of updating her daughter's bedding from young girl to preteen.

This area is definitely AC's favorite. I used this Hoosier cabinet, given to us by my mother when we got married, to create a desk/ art area.

Lyla James and Mary Connor's nursery...a very talented friend painted their monograms above the cribs. One thing I have learned with 2 sets of twins is that it's better to not have anything removable hanging over their beds!

A collection of favorite things- oil painting done by T's late great aunt, newborn pictures, lamps my very patient mother stalked while I was on bed rest.

Linking to: Thrifty Decor Chick, House of Hepworths, Shabby Creek Cottage, No Minimalist Here

Window Boxes

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Tue, 15 May 2012 04:25:00 +0000

Hope you all had a wonderful Mother's Day yesterday! The little sweets and Todd planned a perfect day and made me even more thankful to have this sweet family.
My gift was just what I wanted....Todd made window boxes for either side of the front door! Since we had our house painted a few weeks ago, I have been pricing window boxes. The price tag was pretty hefty since the windows are an unusual size and the boxes would have to be custom made.

I love them and couldn't have asked for a better gift!

Linking up: Between Naps on the Porch, My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia, A Stroll Through Life, Savvy Southern Style, DIY by Design

A Treat for our Teachers

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Fri, 11 May 2012 04:04:00 +0000

With the school year wrapping up, I have been on the look out for ideas to treat the wonderful teachers we have had this year. When I tasted this chocolate chip cheese ball at a birthday party lasted weekend, I knew I had to pass this on.
If you make this, be warned.....you will not be able to stop eating it!

Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 stick of butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup confectioners sugar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 1/2 cups mini semisweet chocolte chips
(I mixed chocolate and peanut butter chips for the one I made for our family...also very good!)
Serve with Graham crackers and strawberries

Beat the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Wrap in a large piece of plastic wrap and refrigerate 2-3 hours.
Before serving, shape into a ball and wrap in remaing chocolate chips.

For the teacher's lunch at the big kids' school

and a more mobile version for the little girls preschool teachers.

Sharing at: French Country Cottage, At the Picket Fence

Making a Bog Garden

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Thu, 10 May 2012 10:41:00 +0000

When we moved in this house almost 6 years ago, we were so excited it had this shady garden area with an established koi pond, arbor, and patio.

These pictures were taken just a few weeks after we moved in and as you can see, AC and B,who were 3 at the time, were smitten with the pond and fish.

The excitement faded when we had to replace the liner and fish 3 different times over the next couple of years thanks to falling tree limbs and critters who loved getting in the pond and eating the fish.

At this point, we were ready to just fill it up with concrete and forget it,but my mother had the brilliant idea of adding a fountain and creating a bog garden within what was the pond. We started working on it last summer, but we had a hard time finding a fountain that was inexpensive, fit the informal feel of the area, and could accomodate the huge pump we had bought for the pond itself.

After playing around with a few different ideas, we settled on a large galvanized container for the base and a flower pot for the top. A few coats of aged copper spray paint later and we have a fountain we love for less than $30!

We transplanted some ferns and hosta from other parts of our yard and added other moisture loving plants like calla lilies, and astible, and Siberian Iris.

Find me at: DIY by Design, Shabby Creek Cottage, No Minimalist Here

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Wed, 09 May 2012 10:34:00 +0000

One of the big home projects on our list for the year is exterior painting.

Spontaneity

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Tue, 01 May 2012 11:23:00 +0000

It isn't a familiar word at this stage of life, but sometimes I manage to channel the fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants old me and y'all, Friday I was channeling away.
This momma was needing some time by the ocean.
So after making a reservation for the weekend and informing Todd we were leaving in about 1 hour, we threw some things in suitcases and headed for the beach.

Sometimes the best times are those that are thrown together at the last minute.

And even though we came home to full-blown chaos, like having the painters show up Monday morning to paint the house and we had no paint because I was supposed to do that Friday afternoon, it was so worth it!

A Whirlwind

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 10:32:00 +0000

It has been a crazy last couple of weeks which has left me with little computer time and even less time for blogging. Between a few client's projects, projects on our house, school activities, two active 7 year olds, and two wild 1 year olds, the days have been busy....

and messy!

But, I'm anxious to catch up on my blog reading and hope to share some pictures of some of the projects over the next few weeks!

Easter Celebrations

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 13:46:00 +0000

We had such a great Easter weekend and hope all of you did as well!

We went to an egg hunt and breakfast with the Easter bunny, but the little girls were not impressed with the bunny, so it turned into a family picture.

MC is not a fan of hair bows these days

LJ woke up several times during the night Saturday and we decided it was best (for the sake of those working in the nursery!) that she and I stay home, but I slipped her into her dress for a quick picture

We had a great lunch with neighbors, friends, and Papa and Nana. It was a perfect spring day, so we ate on the back patio and then hunted for eggs in the front.

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 10:45:00 +0000

We had a great start to this Easter weekend with an egg hunt with the big kids' class and their Easter musical last night.

Each week AC and B have a Bible verse to memorize and recite. This week's verse was John 3:16

"For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

It has been a blessing to hear those words over and over in this house this week!

SUYL- Moms of Multiples

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 21:48:00 +0000

Today I am joining Kelly's Show Us Your Life Mom's of Multiples. We are blessed to have 2 sets of multiples- 7 year old boy/girl twins and 19 month g/g twins.
I'm so glad Kelly is hosting this as I love reading other multiple's blogs and hearing and seeing how they do life. For us, life is fast-paced, chaotic, loud, and filled with so much love I can't put my mind around it!

Big News

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 01:07:00 +0000

Even though it is a Monday, it has been a great one: coffee with Todd to start the day, some unexpected one-on-one time with my big kids,

AND

this great big boot is history!

(Yes, that is pollen on it...I worked in the yard yesterday)

At my appointment today, I was given the go-ahead to drop it completely...no crutches and no boot! Even though walking is frightening and painful, I am so excited!

I see some shoe shopping in my future!

Lately....

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 00:25:00 +0000

The little girls are growing like crazy ....

Smells of Spring

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 02:06:00 +0000

A few weeks ago I saw this incredible recipe for a fresh smelling simmering concoction on Pinterest and finally tried it last night..it is amazing!

morganmoore.typepad.com

Fill a small stockpot about 2/3 full with water. 1 lemon, sliced, and a few sprigs of rosemary (I used sage instead of rosemary because that is what I had on hand), and 2 teaspoons of vanilla. Let it simmer on the stove adding more water as needed.

Catching Up

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:53:00 +0000

I didn't intend for a week to pass before posting again, but life got crazy busy for a bit. Todd and I sort of jumped into some projects that we have been putting off around the house and before we knew it, the week was over. The big kids are out this week for spring break and spent some time with their cousins. L and AC taught the little girls to play beauty shop...the first of many times, I'm sure!

The rest of the week is expected to be beautiful and warm, so we are looking forward to playing outside, soaking up the sun, and not having a schedule...I especially am excited about the last part!

Weekend Wrap-Up

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 02:24:00 +0000

I am pleasantly worn out from a very busy, but fun weekend. Anna Cate and Todd have been looking forward to the annual Father Daughter dance that our school holds. We were worried that it might be cancelled because our area was predicted to have the thunderstorms and tornadoes so many saw Friday, but thankfully they missed us.

The look of frustration on AC's face is due to her not liking the new shoes I bought to go with her dress. For a few minutes, it looked like she might wear her Toms instead and I was prepared to let her...After 7 1/2 years, I'm learning to choose my battles.

Mary Connor is keeping us on our toes lately. One minute she is super happy and silly

and the next she is flinging her dinner plate on the wall saying her new favorite word, "top," which means stop, I'm finished, you're bothering me, etc.

Hope y'all had a great weekend!

Normal

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 03:19:00 +0000

Today was the first day since I broke my leg that resembled our normal: Todd out of town for business, me getting the big kids to school, MC to preschool, LJ to the the pediatrician for an ear infection, school meeting, errands, laundry, meeting the exterminator , picking up the dry cleaning...
just the everyday things.

And even though I am flat worn out tonight, I have a new appreciation for our normal.

Pinewood Derby

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 02:35:00 +0000

For the past few weeks Todd and Brian have spent many evenings painting, sanding and plotting the weight placement for the Pinewood Derby with Brian's Cub Scout troop. Tonight was the big night so we all went to cheer him on. The boys were so excited about their cars and they had the best time. I was so impressed with them for being good sports and congratulating the winner.

The little girls were not impressed with the clowns who came by for the race, but 2 slices of cheese pizza made up for it!

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 02:15:00 +0000

I started to write this post last night, but then a storm hit our area and we lost power until this morning when we found out it was actually a tornado that came right through our neighborhood and brought down many trees and caused tons of damage. We were so blessed and didn't even lose a limb from our big, old trees.

We enjoyed a beautiful day today to that has me wanting to get my hands in the dirt and plan some outdoor projects. I've been worried that my leg is going to prevent that from happening, but guess what? At my check-up with the doctor today, he wants me to drop the crutches and just walk in the boot when out in public and around the little one's and use one crutch without the boot the rest of the time...whoo hoo! I couldn't wait to get home to try walking with my bare foot, but it took me forever to work up the nerve to take a step because I was so afraid the plate and rod would break or something. Of course it didn't and I've been cruising around every chance I get...I find it ironic that LJ and I are learning to walk at the same time!

To add to a very excellent day, I was given this blog award by a friend and blogger I admire so much.

Liebster is a German word that means dearest or favorite. After receiving the reward, I am to share my favorite blogs with you and introduce you to the sweet friend who passed this award on to me.

1. My Barefoot Farm Samantha is a mom to 7 who homeschools, keeps bees, raises chickens, and quilts..just a few of the things that she writes about and why I keep threatening to show up on her doorstep to try and absorb some of her talents and knowledge! Thank you, Samantha!
2. Team Skelley the blog Katie and I grew up together and I love seeing and reading about her life with her husband and 2 cute kiddos. From fashion to music to party planning ideas, Katie's blog is always a great read!
3. House of Stephens Allyson writes about the happenings with her 4 little ones and the 5th on the way...such a sweet family and blog!
4. Savvy Little Women and One Little Man Kate's blog is the first multiple multiples blog I ever read and I continue to look to her for inspiration in these crazy days. Not only does she have 2 sets of twins, but she also has two other children. Her blog is so honest and I love her outlook on being a mother.

Catching up....

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 01:32:00 +0000

All 4 kiddos went to CC and Coach's for the weekend (my parents) leaving Todd and I to enjoy a very relaxing weekend with the perfect combo of friend time, dates, and sleeping in late. This is the first time the little girls have gone without us and they did great!
I don't know if LJ was motivated by MC and her younger cousin, who are both walking, or what but the little sweet finally took steps tonight like 7 or 8 different times!

One of my favorite parts of the day with our four is watching how excited they get for each other and how encouraging they are to each other....you can see she is pretty proud of herself!

Symmetry

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:44:00 +0000

I love symmetry....

I do have two sets of twins. I think that's God's way of saying understands my need for symmetry.

Source: phoebehoward.net via Michelle on Pinterest

It calms me.

Source: lorilangille.blogspot.com via Michelle on Pinterest

It makes sense.

Source: tinywhitedaisies.tumblr.com via Michelle on Pinterest

As my children get older and the amount of primary colored toys, art work, cub scout projects, and treasured keeepsake boxes filled to the brim with rocks, leaves, dirt, and the occasional lizard grow by the day , I find myself craving symmetrical beauty even more than ever. Especially after this week, where craziness has reigned supreme.
A basic design formula is using no more than 4 matching pairs in a room to keep the space interesting. A great rule of thumb, but I'm thinking our home might be an exception.

How much symmetry would it take to create a sense of calm around a 8 story roller coaster that has taken up residence on your dining room table?

Love Is In The Air

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:51:00 +0000

Hope you all are enjoying an extra special day filled with love!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Progress...

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:52:00 +0000

Slowly but surely things are taking shape in the changes we are making in our master bedroom. Last week the bedding and drapes were delivered and I am so happy with it...

You can see a peak of drapes in this picture...it seems I had forgotten that this room is crazily sloped (the charm of an old house!) so some of them are headed back to the workroom for hemming.

The bird print leaning on the nightstand is one of 4 that I currently have in the dining room, but I'm thinking of using them on either side of the bed, either stacked 2 above each nightstand or 2 above the headboard and 1 above each nightstand....hmmmm what do y'all think?
Have a wonderful Monday!

Linking up with
Between Naps on the Porch
Savvy Southern Style
Saved By Suzy

18 Months

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:05:00 +0000

Lyla James and Mary Connor, y'all are 18 months old today!

Lyla James you are finally showing some interest in walking- you cruise around on the furniture and love to hold our hand and walk, especially when everyone claps for you!

You LOVE Elmo and find your Rock and Roll Elmo first thing every morning when you get up..you push the button until it plays your favorite song and sing and dance like crazy over and over.

You are also crazy about your Daddy and brother- no one else exists if they are in the room...the feeling is mutual.

When we ask where someone or something is, you put your hands up by your shoulders and say, "I no know." You also say "cheese" when you see the camera.

Mary Connor, you are a busy, busy little sweet...you run so fast it's hard for me to keep up with you, especially on crutches!

You push the shopping cart around at lightening speed loading and unloading all of the treasures you find throughout the house.

You are talking up a storm...what's this, who's that, stop (specifically when LJ is taking something from you!), and tonight you said Mark to Uncle Mark who is here visiting.

Showing where your noses are...

I am amazed at how much you both have grown up over the past few months and want to freeze you both at this precious age, but I know it's just going to get better and better! You both bring so much joy and laughter to our family and we love you all so much!

Mr. Longarm

noreply@blogger.com (michelle) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:16:00 +0000

I've been working in our master bedroom for the past few weeks and hope to be able to show y'all some pictures soon, but in the meantime I wanted to pass on a great little tool I heard about through Linda at It All Started With Paint.
The room has lots of painting to be done- the ceiling, walls, trim, and built-ins, so I being the ever-patient-one that I am decided to attempt the walls and let a pro come in for the rest. Obviously, I can't climb on a ladder with a broken leg, so I used the Mr. Long Arm Brush and Tool Holder to attatch the brush to an extension pole for cutting in and it worked great! Of course, there are some places that it got on the crown molding, but it's fine since that has to be painted anyway.
Sometimes being impatient has it's benefits, don't you think?