A Little Piece of Me

One Ingredient Ice Cream, What?!

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Thu, 16 May 2013 08:35:00 +0000

I first came across this recipe on one of my kids dvd's in the preview section before the movie starts. I thought it was interesting so I thought I'd give it a try. It's easy to remember because all they did was take ripe bananas, put them in the freezer, blend up the frozen bananas and eat it. Easy right?

You can find other variations of this banana ice cream on Pinterest too.

note: peel and cut bananas into small pieces before freezing.

This is what I used:

3 large - Frozen ripe bananas

2 Tbsp - Peanut Butter

2 Tbsp - Nestle chocolate mix

Blender

Directions:

Toss frozen bananas into blender

Add any additional ingredients

Blend till smooth

Consistency is like a very thick marshmallow cream.

I'm not sure if you can freeze and eat later. This is the first time I tried it tonight and we ate it up right away.

I have to say, it was better than I thought it was going to be. I do not like smoothies with overpowering banana flavor so I usually substitute with blueberries. Although the bulk of the recipe was bananas it had just a slight banana flavor but it's so filling.

Now I know what to do with all our over ripe bananas. I will be making this again, my girls loved it!

Enjoy!!

Have you tried frozen banana ice cream before? Let me know if you try this, I'd love to hear from you!

National Infertility Awareness Week with Amanda @ A Royal Daughter

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 10:11:00 +0000

Today kicks off National Infertility Awareness Week. Amanda from A Royal Daughter is here to share about the week she has planned on her blog. Are you struggling with infertility or know someone who is? I encourage you to follow along with all she has in store this week.

Hi there, have we met before? In case we haven't met, let me introduce myself:

I am a country-living, ice tea drinking, good book reading, farming, ranching, Jesus-loving, curly-headed wife of a seminary professor. He's a teacher, I'm a writer. He's a thinker, I'm a creative. Together we make our home on a small farm in Texas.

Salena and I have been online friends for a couple of years now. We've followed each other's stories and I can't tell you what an encouragement she has been to me. In fact, the whole reason I'm here today is because Salena encouraged me to open up about my battle with infertility. (You can read more about Salena's story of infertility here.)

April 21-27 is National Infertility Awareness Week, and as a woman who is currently battling barrenness, I am trying to make the most of this painful journey by spreading awareness about infertility. Months ago Salena shared a website with me that offers hope and resources to couples battling infertility. And it is that website, Resolve, that is spreading awareness about infertility this week.

A few facts about infertility:

Approximately 1 in 6 couples in the United States are diagnosed with some degree of infertility each year.
"Infertility" defines the inability to conceive a child after one year of unprotected, well-timed intercourse for women under the age of 35. Women 35 and older may be diagnosed after 6 months of unprotected, well-timed intercourse without conception. (The inability to sustain a pregnancy beyond 20 weeks is also classified as "infertility.")
30% of infertility is the result of an ovulatatory dysfunction (i.e. there is a problem with the woman's ovulation cycle).
30% of infertility is the result of a problem with the man (i.e. sperm structure or production).
Women who face infertility often describe their situation as "lonely," "isolating," and "painful."
There is a large spectrum of treatments for infertility, with varying degrees of invasiveness and cost.

My own journey with infertility:

My husband and I started trying for a baby almost 4 years ago.
We were officially diagnosed with "unexplained infertility" in February 2012 (the same month our foster boys were removed from our home).
We have tried various therapies and treatments, from "alternative" therapies to traditional western medical treatments, including Intrauterine Insemination (IUI).
In September 2012 we embraced a gluten-free diet, as gluten intolerance is closely tied to infertility.
We've experienced the pain and frustration of two failed IUIs.
Until last November my husband and I kept our struggle to ourselves. We were completely unwilling to share our story, and to some extent we were unwilling to accept our diagnosis.
But now I feel called to share my story as a way to encourage others who are also facing this same struggle.

National Infertility Awareness Week:

This week on my blog, I will be dedicating the entire week to spreading awareness about infertility, offering encouragement for those battling the pain of barrenness, and providing resources for friends and family of those facing infertility. Topics will include:

Ideas for stepping up out of the pit of infertility and transforming negative emotions and energies into productive, worthwhile activities.
Collaborative efforts from women currently battling infertility, and how they overcame common lies women believe about being barren.
Online and print resources for those battling infertility as well as those who want to come alongside and encourage and support their infertile friends and family members.
How to encourage and support your infertile friends.
Owning your infertility + embracing the waiting period.
Collaborative efforts from women who have made it through to the other side of infertility straight to the hearts of those currently navigating the muddy waters of barrenness.
Infertility from the husband's perspective.

There will also be a giveaway during the week with items I've hand-picked to offer hope and encouragement to those battling infertility. My goal is to offer encouragement and inspiration not only to those currently facing the isolation and frustration of infertility, but for those who wonder how they can minister to their friends who are facing infertility.

I hope you'll join us, and help spread awareness about infertility. It is an isolating journey, but it doesn't have to be.

You can connect with me at my website, on twitter, facebook, and instagram. I'm also on pinterest and google. However you decide to connect with me, please take time to introduce yourself!

My thoughts on... You Are More Beautiful Than You Think

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 10:37:00 +0000

Yesterday I posted the Dove Real Beauty Sketches video. If you haven't seen it you can watch it here. The full version of the experience can be viewed here.
When I realized what the video was about I started tearing up. When I watched it through to the end, I was crying. I couldn't stop thinking about it. One way I look at it is that others see us clearly everyday. Whether they know us or if it's just in passing. We only see ourselves through a mirror and usually it's just to get ready for the day. When we spend time with others, they see us. They look at us, the way our hair falls, the way we form our words, the expression of joy, sadness, excitement or fear on our faces. These things we do not see. Features that are important to us may be superficial to others but very important to us. The outcome of the two sketches in the video were mind blowing. Although I have never had the experience, I'm sure my sketches would be drastically different. It's amazing to see how the first sketch showed the women as serious, closed off and aged. The second sketch showed the women as happy, open, and youthful.
Maybe because the way we view ourselves is with all our baggage but others just see what we give out to the world. If only we could see ourselves as others see us. If only others could see what's really going on inside us as well. Imagine what a difference that would make.

via

What are your thoughts on this experiment?

You Are More Beautiful Than You Think

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 02:54:00 +0000

. Please take the time to watch this very powerful video. I cried because I know my results would turn out the same.
I'd love to hear what you think.

Tell Me a Story

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 10:29:00 +0000

book

Last Wednesday the girls school hosted the Tell Me a Story (TMAS) event. This event is put on by Military Child Education Coalition. We are not a military family but the girls attend a public school on a base so most of these events are open to all students.
This event is great because it encourages families to come together and to give resources to help bond with the kids. This is the first time we attended the Tell Me a Story night. They had a guest reader come to read the story. It was in the cafeteria but was in a little area with a rocking chair and all the families sat on the ground in front of the story reader. After the story we all split into groups to discuss the story. Then we moved on to making a craft. The girls had so much fun because they are arts and craft "addicts" at home. They decorated a child with colorful material, yarn, and crayons. They were so totally focused on the task at hand and did not want any help from us. Eventually daddy and I were able to lend a hand and I was quite impressed at Dakota's ensemble. Rudy helped her and not only did Dakota's doll have a cute red bow, she had a sash. He was so proud of what he did. I was really excited about the outfit I made for Hayden's girl. I just made a slit in the piece of material, put the head through and taped it in the back. Super cute boat neck top, I want it!
In the end, they passed out cookies, and drinks and every family got to take home a copy of the book.
I hope we are able to attend the next one. It was so much fun. The girls were so happy.

Ten Things About Me

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:00:00 +0000

If you follow me on instagram you have probably seen this already. For those of you who don't, you can follow me here. And I thought I'd add this to the blog for those who may only see this by coming here. Note, I have added more details to each one here on the blog.

10 Things About Me

1. I prefer hanging out indoors. I hate getting sweaty or dirty.

2. I like milk chocolate. If you don't want me eating your chocolate, put it in the fridge or freezer or buy dark chocolate. I would need to be desperate for chocolate to though those.

3. My usual at Starbucks are iced mocha or iced chai tea latte.

3. {yes it's 3 again, hey it's hard to type something like this out on mobile instagram}

I like sterling silver or white gold. The only gold I wear now is my wedding ring and my Hawaiian name bangle my husband got me for a wedding gift.

4. Beach days are not my thing although I'm born and raised in Hawaii.

5. It takes time to see the real me. I'm much funnier and outgoing than I seem. You can see the real me more so through social media or here on this blog.

6. I drink diet soda not because I'm on a diet but because it was part of a past diet and now I don't like regular soda.

7. I prefer to not eat any meat but my husband won't do it so its a staple in our meals.

8. Currently obsessed with Criminal Minds, The Walking Dead, and Bates Motel.

9. I can't stand my natural curls and don't feel put together until I flat iron it.

10. I used to wear makeup, do my hair, and wear heels daily. I would not leave the house without earrings but if I did forget I would go out and buy a pair.

Is there anything you can relate to from my list? Is there anything you'd like to share about yourself? I'd love to hear it!

Suddenly it gets harder to breathe...

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:10:00 +0000

Today, I am missing my 2 angel babies. While searching through pinterest I came across these words which hit me hard.

There will always be a mix of emotions when I remember my babies. It comes out of nowhere. Including on the long drive to the hospital where I was heading to on March 20th to help deliver my granddaughter.

The loss, grief, pain, sadness, emptiness... yet the overwhelming joy of how much those two angels have changed out lives. Because of the short time they were with us, not only have my husband and I been changed forever but we are helping others with our story.

The grief of losing a child, even at 11-1/2 weeks and 9-1/2 weeks gestation/in-utero, will always bring a huge wave of all kinds of emotions. This I believe is the blessing that they have brought to our lives.

Today my heart is hurting, my eyes are filled with tears and in this moment I am trying to catch my breath.

Compassion

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 12:04:00 +0000

Have you lost what it is to be human?

Something has been on my heart lately. It's so easy to be hurt by others for the simple fact that you cannot control someone else. I'm a sensitive, compassionate, and understanding person by nature. Anyone can have a problem or be down and I will be the one who can see the brighter side of what's going on. I feel for others when they are hurting as if I'm the one going through it. I put myself in their shoes and analyze the entire situation and can see hope. My husband pointed out to me that just because I'm that way does not mean everyone will have the same approach or thinking as me. I can understand that. Except for when it comes to how people deal with me.

What hurts is when others approach me differently than I would them. Which causes me to doubt myself, what I think, and what I believe in. It causes me to hold back and be someone I'm not. It makes me question myself and wonder if I should just keep my thoughts and feelings to myself so others don't judge me. The response goes two ways. Either you will be praised for being so kind and optimistic with a rare loving heart or be called too soft, weak, and naive.

The way I see things and people is simple. When it comes down to it, we are all human.
h.u.m.a.n.
We have all been made equal in the eyes of God.
Being human means that at any given time, we WILL all make mistakes. period.
We make mistakes because we are human.
We are NOT our mistakes. We are all equal.
h.u.m.a.n.

We all have feelings, get hurt, worry, get scared, feel overwhelmed. It happens at all different times for each of us. Even in someone who can be so evil, I can have compassion because I know we all posses the same reality of being hurt, sad, scared, overwhelmed, alone, etc.

Deep down inside each of us, we are the same. It's the way God designed us. Take away our culture, how we were raised, our education, our careers, our family and friends... When everything is stripped away, we are all the same.

Does this open your eyes to how you treat others? What about the way you expect to be treated by others that does not always turn out the way you want?

Will you live with the intention to be compassionate to those around you because we are all the same? Think about it.

all photos {via}

Lately... it includes a precious bundle of joy

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 20:06:00 +0000

Hello everyone! This post is brought to you by the sweet shout out that Em from And Nothing Else Matters posted on twitter today.

I thought I would stop in and give you a little update. I want to say I've been busy but the truth is I have been very distracted. So much has been going on around here, which I know I've said the last few times I've checked in. So much so that I feel overwhelmed at where to start sharing it all with you.

You all know how I love to include photos in ALL my posts so I have been feeling stuck because I haven't been able to edit my photos like I had in the past. No photos = no valid posts, well that's how I see it in my mind anyway.

So here's a little of what's been going on around here...

We have a new baby! Well, not me. I have a new granddaughter, her name is Allie. She's 15 days old today. She is number 4.

Here's the pics I've been meaning to post all these months.

This is the joy we have been soaking in lately...

See? Wouldn't you be distracted to the point of being overwhelmed on where to start up blogging again? ;) Baby Allie is such a precious cutie. She has a velociraptor screech which sounds like straight out of the Jurassic Park movie that will scare you to death. Such a small thing with such a loud screech, we just have no idea where it comes from. Hahaha!

Oh and did I mention they all moved in with us? Yes, a full house... literally. Well, not a house, It's a townhouse. You get the idea.

Allie has the cutest nickname that she got from her parents before she was born... Allie-gator. Awe... I love it, do you love it? She loves to snuggle to sleep in her daddy's arms. Has her days mixed up so sleeps during the day and keeps her parents up at night. She hates the sun but they take her for walks anyway. As you can see in her first picture above with her sunglasses... you can't see it but she's asleep with her eyes squinting under there.

The little girls are so in love with her and always want to carry her and touch her.

So there's a little recap on that subject. There's many more to come. Thanks to Em for getting me started with this post!

Something new coming soon to my shop...

You can find me active on instagram here. My username is alittlepieceofme.

An Angel Reveal

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 09:07:00 +0000

Hey guys! I know it's been a long time since I posted anything. There is lots going on around here lately which means no time on the computer like I used to have. I wanted to stop in to share who I've been angeling for the month of February. I have been sick for almost a month so I was not able to do as much this month as I have in past rounds.

Once again this round we got to choose who we wanted to be an angel for. This was easy. I have been inspired by Jessica over at Four Plus an Angel for some time now. There are so many similarities between us and my heart feels connected to her although we have never met and we have only messaged maybe a handful of times on the Internet. We were both teenage single moms, have a daughter with special needs, and we have both suffered infertility and lost precious babies. Recently at Christmas time, she had a vision to pass on gently used Christmas/Holiday wear to other kids who may need it. Kids grow so fast and usually only wear holiday clothes once. The whole idea grew into something so big. Jessica quickly heard from many facebook followers who also had clothes to give away and everyone jumped at the chance to pitch in. I was one of the recipients with 4 little girls at home needing Christmas dresses so I contacted Jessica with their ages and sizes. Each child was matched with sizes of dresses that were listed on the donated clothes list and the donating family shipped it to the recipients for free. One of my girls received a brand new set of clothes, a skirt, sweater and leggings all with tags still attached. This is most likely because there was no match for her size so someone offered to purchase hers. I was blown away and so grateful for these people's hearts.

I have been visiting Four Plus an Angel periodically and sharing or retweeting posts as appropriate. I placed her button on my blog too. Jessica's blog is very inviting. Go check it out for yourself and see why I love this inspiring mom of four plus an angel.

Linking up here

Ultimate Blog Angels || Final Reveal

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Mon, 31 Dec 2012 09:52:00 +0000

I can't believe we are at the final reveal for the Ultimate Blog Angels December. The month went by so fast and there were so many holiday things going on that I had a hard time this round. This round we were able to choose who we wanted to be an angel for. I liked this idea because in the past I was usually assigned someone I did not know and have never heard of before. They were totally different from me so I felt like my hands were tied and had to be creative to find ways to help. The last round I had someone who actually had me previously but I had forgotten all about that.

This round, having the freedom to choose who I wanted had me feeling more excited and thinking it would be way easier. I actually found it harder. The person I choose does not post regularly and for the past several months due to family changes I haven't either. In fact I haven't been on the computer very much lately to keep up with my angel duties and blogging. Also, because I have already done everything for my angel that I would normally do, I felt there was nothing left to do. This had me feeling like I had failed her. I'm sure she has no idea I have been her angel for December but I will keep at it as I always have been by encouraging her, sharing her posts, shop updates, leaving comments, and being a friend.

I have been angeling Marcy over at isshou no yakusoku she has a blog with creative crafts and an etsy shop where she sells beautiful trendy bracelets.

(necklace - A Little Piece of Me Shop)

Marcy is so sweet. She leaves heartfelt comments each time she visits my blog or emails me. I reached out to her when I first found out about her through a giveaway for her bracelets. I loved them so much and offered her free ad space on my blog with a feature to introduce her bracelets. She was so grateful that she returned to my blog to check how many girls I had in my family. She made a set of bracelets for 8 of us from her "treasure" line. My girls are my treasures so she wanted to give us this gift. We all loved it so much. Each came packaged so beautifully with each of our names written on the outside.

-- -- -- -- --* THE TAKARA*-- -- -- -- --
Takara is a Japanese word which translates to "Treasure" and this piece truly is a gem! It features a row of faux pearls in a gold colored setting, 2 rows of gold colored brass ball chain, all set on black, round, genuine leather cord and finished off with a gold colored hex nut closure! Each bracelet is wrapped in embroidery floss and comes in a large range of colors!

This bracelet is PERFECT for stacking and can be paired endlessly! It's is perfect for both formal and casual events and can be worn with virtually everything!

One interesting thing is that she lives on O'ahu, Hawai'i too!

If you don't know Marcy please visit her blog and shop. You won't be sorry!

Next round of Blog Angels will be coming up in February. Be on the lookout for sign ups over here on January 15th.

Linking up here.

Merry Christmas!

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 23:53:00 +0000

Wishing you Love & Blessings this Holiday Season!

Love The Lee Ohana

Blogger Day Of Silence || Sandy Hook

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 09:35:00 +0000

>>> Donation Link <<<
I won't be posting today.
Instead, please click the button above to donate to help the victims' families. Thank you.

Ultimate Blog Angels || Halfway Point

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 09:31:00 +0000

We are already at the halfway point of December's Ultimate Blog Angels round. This time it's a little different. Instead of having angels picked and assigned in secret, this time we got to pick who we wanted to angel. The person I chose is an inspiration to me and although she is not into blogging as much as her online shop, she does have various social media venues. She hasn't been very active so I'm feeling at a stand still. As with previous rounds, it's hard to angel someone without giving yourself away.

I have some ideas for the next 2 weeks and am looking forward to reaching out to her more.

I can't wait for the reveal on December 31st! Hopefully she doesn't know who I am but I hope she does feel blessed and has a sense that someone is looking out for her.

Next round will be in February with sign ups mid January.

Linking up here.

Protecting Daughters From The World's Harsh Expectations

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 09:53:00 +0000

Being a mother of five daughters and having a granddaughter who are in different stages, there are different expectations we are dealing with at any given time.

They are so impressionable to their surroundings and are always on alert to how they measure up. Each of them so different, responding to life in their own way.

I do have one son but it's the girls who are more sensitive to the expectations of the world around them. I see them get excited, hurt, confused, and flat out defeated at what they think they should be or how they should act.

When they come to me not knowing how to measure up to peers, friends, co-workers, or even family I try to remind them that they are perfect the way they are. Always be yourself no matter what. Stay true to your values, your convictions, your desires and don't let anyone talk you out of it. You can be anything you want to be.

When I was a little girl growing up I did not have someone telling me that I was beautiful and that I could do anything I wanted to do. I'm always thinking back to how I felt and what I would be thinking if I was put in the same situations as my girls. I know that I am a strong influence in their lives and try my best to guide them in the right direction.

Unrealistic expectations is something I think we can all relate to and struggle with. Young girls today feel so much pressure trying to measure up to what society feeds them through the media. It's important to remind them what is reality and that it's okay to just be themselves.

Ultimately, I know that the most powerful thing is to pray for my girls. For their protection, for them to be strong, to know their value and worth, to make choices and decisions based on who they are and what they know is true. When I see my girls interacting with others, extending the same positive encouragement to others, I feel so blessed.

* originally posted over at Speak Now: Little Speak

What If Money Didn't Matter, What Do You Desire?

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 17:56:00 +0000

I came across this video today which blew me away. Not that we all haven't heard it before but this video truly hit home. There was a time in my life when a co-worker asked the question:

"what if there was no such thing as age, if age didn't matter, would that change the way you think about your life or the decisions you make?"

From that moment on, it changed the way I viewed my life. Watching this video did the same for me today as that question did back in 2004.

For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to be a Cosmetologist. Back when my oldest daughter was maybe 2 years old, I received a full grant to cosmetology school but decided it was best to go to work and help provide for our family. I turned down the grant and walked away. The desire is still there.

If I could choose something today it would be writing and inspiring others with my life experiences through this blog or however the opportunity presents itself.

If you choose what you desire and what you love, there is always a way to monetize it you just need to figure it out.

I urge everyone to watch this. Take a step back and look at your life. Make the changes you need to make to break the cycle. Teach it to your children. Pass this message along.

What if money didn't matter, what do YOU DESIRE?

What changes are you going to make to be truly happy in your future? What do you love to do?

Joyfully Free

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 09:14:00 +0000

Over the past couple of months, this is what's been going on over here... Dakota is swimming on her own! My last update was that she let go of one of her older sisters while in the pool and started swimming on her own with her puddle jumper. Shortly after, she asked me to take of her puddle jumper and she wanted to try swimming on her own. She didn't do well at all and kept sinking like a rock, total dead weight and had no arm and leg coordination or the ability to keep herself up. However, within a few days she mastered it. Just had to keep reminding her to be aware of her breathing and not getting to tired while she tried to cross the pool. She has been doing great!

I am beyond excited to tell you that she has no more fear in her eyes at all. She is filled with complete joy and is finally free from all fear and anxiety from her accident.

I love watching her swim. She is now dunking her head under water and with her goggles she tries very hard to swim underwater. She's a fighter. She will try and not give up until she gets it. We are so proud of her. In her own time, she broke through the fear. We didn't ever push her. God was working on her each and every day since her accident. He knew what He was doing, we just needed to sit back and trust His timing. When that day came, she broke out of her shell so quickly and totally with no hesitation and no going back.

Dakota just celebrated her 5th birthday. She has grown so much in this last year and I can see first hand the amazing things God has done with her.

If you are not familiar with her story, you can read about the accident here. To read the entire thread related to this topic you can read about it here.

Thank you for all your prayers, kind words of encouragement and loving support.

Blog Angels || The Ultimate Xmas Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Sun, 11 Nov 2012 06:03:00 +0000

The Ultimate edition of Blog Angels is about to start and it promises to be bigger than ever. If you're a veteran Angel then pay close attention as we've thrown the rule book for this round out of the window.

This time it is ALL about the giving. You will sign-up to help a blog of your choice, knowing there might not be any chance of receiving help. Most participants don't do this to be helped so I am excited what we can, as a community, do to spread the Christmas cheer.

So here are the December rules and the sign up form is right below.

1. Find a blog you want to help in secret - this could be new to you or an existing blogger in need of a boost. Try and give the URL of a reserve blog to help in case your first choice is in hot demand.

2. Fill in the form (on the blog from 10th November!)

3. Wait for an email before 30th November confirming you can help that person. I will make sure that everyone isn't trying to assist the same person.

4. Help them with their blog in secret for one month, commiting to commenting a minimum of twice a week. See more advice on what else you can do here.

5. Link up a post summarising what help you have given throughout the first two weeks. (15th December)

6. Link up a reveal post on 30th December and contact your blog to let them know you've been their festive buddy for the month.

Blog Angels December Sign Up Form Loading...

Trunk or Treat

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 10:59:00 +0000

Hey how was your Halloween? We have had lots going on here and I'm trying to catch up! Hopefully my photo editing software holds up so I can upload my photos and start blogging about it.

This year was the first time our school sponsored a Trunk or Treat so we were excited to go. The girls dressed up and could not wait to get there. There were a bunch of cars that were decorated and as you can see in the photo, the theme with the movie "UP" won first place. They were the only ones with a theme so they should win, right? Hahaha, I thought it was very clever and they were so cute.

The girls got tattoos which was really cute because instead of going for the cute girly ones they picked the eye balls and scary stuff. Go figure. There was a drawing table to they got to color some Halloween pictures.

At the end there was a little parade pass the cars and they picked best costumes which I missed since I was sitting on the side with Hayden while she ~~played with~~ ate her hot dog and did silly poses with her lollipop.

Coming up...

Halloween

Birthdays

A New Addition

and more!

In the mean time, have you heard about this little contest here?

Take a moment to vote for me, Thank you!

I Need Your Help! Please Vote!

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 07:56:00 +0000

The Dreamy Meadow and Eloping Stethoscope are having a Christmas Shop Contest. I am so excited because my shop made it to the top 10! Yay! You can find out more info about the contest here.

Will you help me make it to the top 5?! Voting starts today and goes till November 20th.

What do the top 5 win?

Rotating In-Post Ad Space on BOTH of our blogs in December.

A guest post all about your shop and why it's awesome.

A solo giveaway spotlight to get you TONS of traffic!

>>>>> VOTE HERE NOW! <<<<<

Thank you!!!

Blog Angels || October Final Reveal

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 22:43:00 +0000

It's Blog Angels October Final Reveal time. If you haven't heard of Blog Angels before you can read more about it here from Rosie over at Craftbotic.

For the month of October I have been a Blog Angel to Kate from Life As I Know It.

I have to say that this round was weird to me. This was the first time that we reveal ourselves to the blogger we have been angeling at the half way point. You can read my half-way reveal post here. I found it a little premature since there wasn't much time to do much for my blogger. Although Kate's main request was for comments I really wanted to do more if I could. However, with changes in my family during this round I found myself with less time to be online so my time was limited in following Kate daily. She was very encouraging though when she found out it was me. She has no idea and she loved the comments I left for her.

Since the half way reveal there wasn't anything that changed. I continued to visit and leave comments but the difference with this round is that I already knew Kate. When you see her blog, it's hard not to comment. She has a lovely family and a new baby! She talks about products she loves and shares new things. There is always something different and I relate well with her. In that sense this was the easiest round for me since I felt we just clicked already.

Round 4 will be in December with a new twist, I'm excited and can't wait! Want in on the angeling duties? Check it out here for more info and check back on November 10th to sign up.

Linking up here.

Pregnancy and Infant Loss || Overwhelming Response and Gratitude

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 09:36:00 +0000

This month, Sarah {from Fontenot Four} and I have joined together to bring awareness to others in this blogging community and to be a support and encouragement to other women who have experienced the devastating loss of a baby whether during pregnancy, stillbirth, or after the birth of the baby. It can be a very isolating experience, and we want you to know that if you have experienced such a loss, you are not alone. On October 15th, Sarah and I hosted a very special link up. This link up was for us to share our stories of loss, no matter how recent or how many. Whether your loss is new or you have been on a journey of healing for some time, we welcomed all to join in our link up. We wanted to provide a place to share your stories because you just never know when something you share might have a profound impact on someone who is traveling a similar journey.

I wanted to thank you for your overwhelming response to the Remembering Our Babies Pregnancy and Infant Loss Series. I was completely overwhelmed by the individual personal stories that were linked up on October 15th. Although my grief was so overpowering and my loss so great, many of you have experienced much worse. My heart aches for each of you. I did not expect the impact this series and link up would have on me. Each of your stories and your babies have made an impact on my life. My heart is full learning about each of them. I am grateful that God has allowed them in our lives even for such a short time. Their lives have made a big impact on this world. By telling our stories, they continue to live and touch others.

It is my hope that this series has impacted everyone. For those of you who have lost a baby to know you are not alone. Perhaps to have gained some insight to the purpose your baby had even for such a short time. For those of you who have not suffered loss but know someone who has, that this series has brought clear awareness about the magnitude of grief and isolation losing a baby does to a parent. No matter if a few weeks pregnant all the way to a few hours or a few years post-partum, the pain is so great and that baby was here for a reason. Please take the time to reach out to those around you, it is a silent grief and just being there will mean the world.

Thank you Sarah for suggesting this powerful link up. You are such and encouragement and inspiration.

If you have not yet visited our link up, you can do so here.

To read the series thread, you can do so here.

If you would like to share your story and have not linked up, please do so or you can email me at alittlepieceofme.salena@gmail.com.

Tuesday 10 || Random Facts About Me

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 18:01:00 +0000

1. My first concert was Whitney Houston

2. I have never seen the Twilight Series.

3. I have an addiction to handbags.

4. I am the oldest of three girls.

5. I am the second oldest of the first cousins on my mom's side.

6. I like dark shades of nail polish and tend to always pick some kind of burgundy color.

7. Shopping makes me happy.

8. I have never been on a vacation as an adult. With the exception of going to Alaska on my honeymoon.

9. My wedding color scheme was champagne.

10. My birthday is coming up on October 29th. ;)

What are 10 Random Facts about you? I'd love to hear it!

Linking up:

Dear Husband...

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 18:53:00 +0000

Dear Husband,

I don't need to tell you how crazy things have been lately. We both feel it in different ways. It's so crazy that we have not been able to catch time alone to re-group and talk everything through like we should. As the leader of our family, I know how much pressure you are under and how much responsibility you carry. It may not seem like I understand or like I notice but I do. Sometimes I wish there was more I could do but I'm only human. I make mistakes. I fail, everyday. I don't know how you do it. There is so much you are dealing with personally while shuffling things around to make sure our family has what we need. Things are not perfect but you always seem to keep me calm and know just the right things to say when needed. Although at times it seems like you have no clue what's going on or how to talk to me, I want you to know that you are what I need. I love you. I miss you when you are away. Time is going by so quickly. I'm looking forward to the day when the kids are older so that you and I will be able to have more alone time to catch up and to just be still enjoying one another.

All my love,

sb

- Husbands need love too is a way to show our husbands how much we love them by spotlighting them on our blog! So, the post must be to your husband, about him, from him, a vlog of yall together. Something that highlights your love for him. :)

- Must follow Host & Co-host blogs via GFC
{We are the first ones linked up}

Extra:

- Grab a button and put it on your sidebar

- Tweet about it

- Visit a few other blogs and show them some love

I'm A Blog Angel || Reveal

noreply@blogger.com (Salena Lee) — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 17:48:00 +0000

It's that time again... Third round of Blog Angels with Rosie over at Craftbotic.

For the month of October I am a Blog Angel for Kate from Life As I Know It.

This is my third round of being a blog angel. For the first time we are doing the reveal at the half way point. The first half of the month is to secretly ~~stalk~~ help our assigned bloggers in ways they have requested. The second half will be to work with one another to help in anyway we can. I'm excited to find out who my angel is. Up to this point, I have no clue.

So far, I have followed Kate in anyway I can. I have visiting and commenting regularly which is something she wanted. Not sure if she knows I'm her angel. This is the first time I knew my angel. She is familiar to me in the blog community and we are swappers. It was a huge difference in feeling like I wasn't giving myself away by showing up on October 1st and making it obvious I was her angel. This is what happened to me in the past 2 rounds. This time has been easier because Kate posts a lot. She is very down to earth and her blog is very inviting. I am looking forward to working with Kate with whatever she needs for the rest of October.

Want to be involved in Round 4 in December? Sign-up will open on 15th November. There is a Christmas twist which will allow for maximum participation!

Linking up here.

A Little Piece of Me

One Ingredient Ice Cream, What?!

National Infertility Awareness Week with Amanda @ A Royal Daughter

Today kicks off National Infertility Awareness Week. Amanda from A Royal Daughter is here to share about the week she has planned on her blog. Are you struggling with infertility or know someone who is? I encourage you to follow along with all she has in store this week.

My thoughts on... You Are More Beautiful Than You Think

What are your thoughts on this experiment?

You Are More Beautiful Than You Think

Tell Me a Story

Ten Things About Me

10 Things About Me

Suddenly it gets harder to breathe...

Compassion

Lately... it includes a precious bundle of joy

An Angel Reveal

Ultimate Blog Angels || Final Reveal

This bracelet is PERFECT for stacking and can be paired endlessly! It's is perfect for both formal and casual events and can be worn with virtually everything!

Merry Christmas!

Blogger Day Of Silence || Sandy Hook

Ultimate Blog Angels || Halfway Point

Protecting Daughters From The World's Harsh Expectations

What If Money Didn't Matter, What Do You Desire?

"what if there was no such thing as age, if age didn't matter, would that change the way you think about your life or the decisions you make?"

What if money didn't matter, what do YOU DESIRE?

Joyfully Free

Blog Angels || The Ultimate Xmas Edition

Trunk or Treat

I Need Your Help! Please Vote!

The Dreamy Meadow and Eloping Stethoscope are having a Christmas Shop Contest. I am so excited because my shop made it to the top 10! Yay! You can find out more info about the contest here.

Will you help me make it to the top 5?! Voting starts today and goes till November 20th.

What do the top 5 win? Rotating In-Post Ad Space on BOTH of our blogs in December. A guest post all about your shop and why it's awesome. A solo giveaway spotlight to get you TONS of traffic!

>>>>> VOTE HERE NOW! <<<<<

Blog Angels || October Final Reveal

Linking up here.

Pregnancy and Infant Loss || Overwhelming Response and Gratitude

If you have not yet visited our link up, you can do so here.

To read the series thread, you can do so here.

If you would like to share your story and have not linked up, please do so or you can email me at alittlepieceofme.salena@gmail.com.

Tuesday 10 || Random Facts About Me

What are 10 Random Facts about you? I'd love to hear it!

Dear Husband...

I'm A Blog Angel || Reveal

What do the top 5 win?

Rotating In-Post Ad Space on BOTH of our blogs in December.

A guest post all about your shop and why it's awesome.

A solo giveaway spotlight to get you TONS of traffic!