love.bug.

I'm still here

2013-05-31T14:09:00.002-05:00

I know it's been a while. I hope you'll forgive me! Let me explain...

At the beginning of 2013 I got really sick. 2 weeks into 2 medications and nothing had changed. So the new CF doc over at the doc office put me in the hospital. :( It was actually pretty ridiculous because I in no way felt sick enough to be in the hospital. I actually thought I shouldn't be in there, and judging from the reactions of the nurses, they didn't think so either.

So anyway. A picc line in my arm...a hospital stay of 3 useless days...2 weeks of IV's...a blood clot in my arm that moved up to my neck....and 3 months of blood thinners later, well let's just say things changed.

My perspective on not being able to say no to people is wildly different now. I'm no longer going to do what I DON'T WANT TO for the sake of worrying about someone's feelings.

And I began really focusing on my health and fitness. I don't know, I kinda got mad at CF. And I am out to prove that it'll never touch me again. I will NEVER have to have IVs again. EVER.

So I began posting like crazy on my other blog, Amy Hughes Fitness. I also really dove into fitness as a business for myself and now I am on my way to being a certified personal trainer. :) I'm doing regular online coaching groups and helping people get healthy ALL while I STAY THAT WAY.

I will still post here from time to time! Mostly personal stuff, I think no longer Photo Show Offs. Sorry guys...it was too much for me to keep up with. I just want this blog to be for me, not for a biz. My other blog, the fitness page, is to promote my fitness coaching and training and that is where I want to put my energy :)

So for now, I'll leave you with some great words of wisdom... and tell y'all that I've missed you and I still love ya!! Talk to you very soon!

last photo show off of 2012!!

2012-12-31T17:14:00.002-06:00

Oh my, my how time has flied my friends! Just to think this little old blog was started in 2012 and I've met so many new friends and seen so many wonderful photos through the Photo Show Off!

I just want you all to know how grateful I am for you for linking up each week. I hope that you are making friends through the link ups, I know I am! You guys are the BEST. Love you all!!

And alas, here's my last photos to share of 2012!

THAT is when we were at the Titans Monday night game on the 17th! We had field passes! CAN YOU BELIEVE HOW CLOSE UP AND PERSONAL WE WERE!!! So much fun. Josh with his favorite center ever in the game, Kevin Mawae. And then, yes. That is the Monday Night Football crew right behind our seats. It was really fun to turn around and see their reactions and facial expressions throughout that game! I felt like I could reach out and touch John Gruden!! LOL!

My boog had such a great Christmas. He unrwrapped tons of new friends. And got a chance to punch Daddy and Uncle Steven in the face, so who can beat that??!

Have a great and safe New Years Eve!! See you in 2013!!

how does the Photo Show Off work?

- follow, subscribe to, or become a fan of love bug.

- link up your photos!

- link back to the show off somewhere on your blog, using my button or just a text link.

- check out other links and leave comments.

- come back next week to show off again!
-if your photo was a Show Off this week, grab the button and show it off!

Healthy Eats: Lemon Cottage Cheese Griddlecakes

2012-12-20T14:48:00.001-06:00

A Healthy and Delicious Start to Your Morning

With This Clean Eating Recipe

Tell me those griddlecakes don't look like HEAVEN?? Well they are. I adapted this recipe from Tosca Reno's Eat Clean Diet Vegetarian Cookbook and it was a hit with literally the whole family. It's a breakfast treat on a Saturday that you don't have to feel guilty about. I don't mind at all making this for my son! My absolute favorite way to eat it is to top it with blueberries or raspberries and drizzle some pureed blueberry/raspberry sauce over the top. SO DELICIOUS!

Here's the Recipe:

Lemon Cottage Cheese Griddlecakes

Recipe Type: Breakfast

Cuisine: A Healthy Start

Author: Amy Hughes (Adapted from Tosca Reno's Eat Clean Diet Vegetarian Cookbook)

Prep time: 15 mins

Cook time: 20 mins

Total time: 35 mins

Serves: 14 griddlecakes

This recipe is a bit healthied up from your traditional fluffy griddlecakes (healthied up...is that a word?), but don't worry- not an ounce of fluff or flavor has been lost!

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups whole wheat flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
3 tbsp coconut palm sugar
Pinch freshly grated nutmeg
Pinch sea salt
1 cup almond milk
1 cup cultured low fat cottage cheese
1 egg yolk
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 tsp finely grated lemon zest
3 egg whites
Coconut Oil

Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, coconut palm sugar, nutmeg and sea salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, cottage cheese, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix together until just combined.
Add egg whites to a seperate bowl and beat them into stiff peaks. Fold egg whites into batter. It will be thick and lumpy.
Heat a pancake griddle thoroughly on medium low and coat the surface with coconut oil. (I put some on a paper towel and then rub it all over the griddle surface). Scoop about 1/3 cup of batter onto the griddle for each cake and shape it into a round. Cook until the top is filled with bubbles and holes, and the edges are starting to dry, 4 to 5 minutes. Flip and cook for 1 to 2 minutes longer. Repeat until all of the batter is used. Serve immediately or keep warm in a 200ºF oven.

Serving size: 1 cake Calories: 67 Fat: 1 g Saturated fat: .3 g Trans fat: 0 g Carbohydrates: 13 g Sodium: 137 mg Fiber: 1 g Protein: 4 g Cholesterol: 3 mg

TRY THIS!: Top these griddlecakes with fresh fruit, yogurt, Blueberry Compote, or for a treat, a drizzle of pure maple syrup!

I hope you LOVE THIS like I do! Let me know what you think!

For a printable version, go to http://amyhughesfitness.com/all-posts/lemon-cottage-cheese-griddlecakes/

boys in blue photo show off

2012-12-17T10:55:00.000-06:00

I have a confession to make...I LOVE the Tennessee Titans!!!!

:) I know, I know you guys already know that. Fine. But did you know a Houstonite loving the Titans is a big no-no? I catch flack from family and friends...CONSTANTLY. But I won't stop loving them, I'm not some band wagon fan! My husband introduced me to this team 12 years ago. He's been following them since they were the Houston Oilers. (WHO is the true fan?? ...) I named my son after the former head coach. Yes. We LOVE them.

Well Josh's mom and her best friend Judy created an opportunity to meet the team in a way we could've never imagined and have created a weekend that we will NEVER forget. We really are so grateful. Love you Lynn and Judy! THANK YOU!!

So for my show off this week, I present to you my sideline pictures. Of the walk through that is NOT open to the public. And this AMAZING experience is not over. We will be on the field pre-game for the MONDAY NIGHT GAME AGAINST THE JETS TONIGHT!! EEK! Look out Tim Tebow...I"m going to be looking for you ;) lol. haha

You guys have no idea how excited and keyed up I am....ok maybe you do. :)

Look how close we were!

They were goofing off, joking around and laughing. So cool to see them in their element.

Jurrel Casey and the rest of the deffense imitating Antonio Smith of the Texans...LOL! They started trying to find their own sack move...pulling back an arrow, swinging a golf club...oh it was hilarious.

Two of Josh's favorite players

The AMAZING Kevin Carter and Jackson's favorite..CJ. Jax saw this pic and said, "That's what I'm going to be."

Karl Klug...Josh's man crush. And the boys signing off for the night. GO TITANS!

Did I mention this trip was supposed to be my wedding gift to my husband 9 years ago? I just wanted to get him into a game at LP. That's all...just a game. Now we're doing all of this...it really is a DREAM COME TRUE. ;)

how does the Photo Show Off work?

- follow, subscribe to, or become a fan of love bug.

- link up your photos!

- link back to the show off somewhere on your blog, using my button or just a text link.

- check out other links and leave comments.

- come back next week to show off again!
-if your photo was a Show Off this week, grab the button and show it off!

friday fancies

2012-12-14T09:47:00.000-06:00

SO today I decided I want to join in Friday Fancies with my girl Natalie over at The Spunky Poser and AV over at Long Distance Loving!

So you must understand...since I work at home, most of my days are spent in workout pants and a tank top. Now that it's cold, yep. A hoodie. So I never get to get fancy. I think now that the holidays are coming....New Year's Eve and so on....I may just go for it. (Time to take a shower, eh?)

Soft Pink Holiday by amy-hughes featuring white pearl earrings

Soft Pink Holiday

2012-12-14T09:37:00.001-06:00

Soft Pink Holiday by amy-hughes featuring white pearl earrings

counting down to christmas!

2012-12-07T08:46:00.000-06:00

This year I am actually decorating! Aren't you so proud of me?

I have my palm tree Christmas tree up, my snowmen and santa sitting on the table, our Christmas lights are up outside and our lighted reindeer. Stockings are hung (on the tv table since we don't have a mantle...LOL) and Jackson is SO excited this year!

He is 4 so I guess this is the age of excitement :) He talks about Santa EVERY DAY. I'm trying to tie Santa and God together...I don't want my kid growing up thinking it's all about getting presents! I'm using Kristy's FREE Christmas Tree Countdown to do that...I know I mentioned it before. You can download yours! It's not too late!

I framed it and taped Reese's peanut butter cups to each circle and Jackson takes one off every night! He says "Mommy, is it the 6th day of Christmas?" LOL! And just changes the number each time he asks. It's cute. Once we get to the last 12 days, I'm going to read him a card each night that has Bible verses on them telling the story of Jesus' birth. I'm really excited to get to that part, he has about 3 books with the story in it so I'm going to be able to pull those out and tie them in!

I'm actually getting excited for Christmas too because of all this decorating! Maybe I should do this more often :) LOL!

AND BEFORE WE GO:

I want to announce the winners of the Holly Days Giveaway with Life n Reflection and VPhoneGirl!

DRUMROLL PLEASE.................................

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Congrats to Kaitlin, our FIRST PRIZE winner, Sandra, our SECOND PRIZE winner and Mary our THIRD PRIZE winner! We'll be contacting you shortly about your prizes! EEK! YAY!

christmas card photo show off part 2

2012-12-03T07:28:00.000-06:00

Good morning my friends! How was everyone's weekend? I'm doing good, ankle is still sore and hurting. I'm going to the doc today to ask him why the heck it's not 100% yet. We shall see...

In the meantime, onto my photo show off for the day! My finished Christmas card for this year! I have so much fun each year designing our cards, here's some from years past before I get to this year:

2010

2011

I do all of it in Photoshop, and I swear I spend all day trying different designs and layouts, downloading brushes and fonts and choosing pictures. HAHA!

I, of course, did the same thing this weekend making this year's. Now I just have to order them. When do you order your Christmas cards by? I hope I'm not too late...

And without further ado, HERE IT IS! Our card, 2012.

It's totally different than I've done before, but I really like it. The more I look at it, in fact, the more I am happy with it. It reminds me of the John Denver song I love and the Charlie Brown Christmas movie Jackson loves. It's simple and I love that verse so much.

So there you have it! Now let's see your photos to show off this week!

how does the Photo Show Off work?

- follow, subscribe to, or become a fan of love bug.

- link up your photos!

- link back to the show off somewhere on your blog, using my button or just a text link.

- check out other links and leave comments.

- come back next week to show off again!
-if your photo was a Show Off this week, grab the button and show it off!

And guys, don't forget!! The HOLLY DAYS GIVEAWAY is going on for 2 MORE DAYS!! Some seriously amazing Christmas prizes, including $15 Gift Certificates for photo printing at Pro Digital Photos!!! Not to mention all the Life n Reflection GOODIES! (tell me her designs aren't the best in the world?!? She's amazingly talented)

Click this IMAGE to head on over to the GIVEAWAY!

See you there! I hope you win!!

holly days giveaway

2012-11-28T08:50:00.000-06:00

There is NO other time like Christmas Time! Don't you think? It's just magical with all the twinkly Christmas lights, cinnamon and fresh pine scents everywhere you go, and everyone shares good tidings for the season. The magic of Christmas is already in Jackson's eyes and it makes me so excited for the season!

In spirit of that magical feeling, me, Kristy from Life n Reflection and Tiffany at VPhoneGirl are so excited to bring you the Holly Days GIVEAWAY in hopes you'll find the magic of the season too! Join us for blog hop full of Holly Day Projects, free downloads, and twinkly lights. OK so we don't have any twinkly lights, but trust me we're gonna make your eyes twinkle!!

Here's a peek at the Holly Days Prizes!

First Prize Winner will receive:
Noel Mini Book
$15 gift certificate from Pro Digital Photos

Second Prize Winner will receive:
Holly Days Parties Made Simple Kit
$15 gift certificate from Pro Digital Photos

Third Prize Winner will receive:
Reindeer Games Photo Wallet Set
$15 gift certificate from Pro Digital Photos
Handmade Holiday Baby Bib from Vphone Girl

Every Holiday Cheer Winner will receive a $15 gift certificate from Pro Digital Photos!
Use your gift certificate for a 2013 photo calendar, a personalized i phone case, or create just about anything with your photos! (um, that is AWESOME!!)

I've got a beautiful and fun Christmas Tree Countdown project to share below! Also, be sure to visit my friends Kristy at Life n Reflection and Tiffany at VPhoneGirl for more Holly Day Downloads & Projects to make your eyes twinkle!!

First Prize Winner will receive:
Noel Mini Book
$15 gift certificate from Pro Digital Photos

Second Prize Winner will receive:
Holly Days Parties Made Simple Kit
$15 gift certificate from Pro Digital Photos

Third Prize Winner will receive:
Reindeer Games Photo Wallet Set
$15 gift certificate from Pro Digital Photos
Handmade Holiday Baby Bib from Vphone Girl

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Christmas Tree Countdown Project

So here's my idea:

I downloaded the 8x10 Christmas Countdown Calendar from Life n Reflection, which you can get AT THIS LINK HERE or by clicking the pic above!
I printed it out on pearl paper to make it all kinds of pretty :) and I'll be hanging it up framed on the living room wall for my son.
I bought some mini Reese's peanut butter cups and taped them to each number
Every day starting Dec 1st, we will be taking one of the Reese's off and he can eat it!!
I found a site that has Bible verses about Christmas HERE and I wrote some of them out so they fit on 24 cards, each one numbered.
Every time little man pulls a Reese's off, we read the Bible verse card that has that number on it!

He gets a little treat every day of the Countdown to Christmas and we get to share some time learning about what Christmas is really all about! I am SO excited for December 1st!! Got an awesome countdown idea for this 8x10 Christmas Tree Countdown Calendar? I'd love to hear it! Share it in the comments!

Now, hop on over and see Kristy over at Life n Reflection for an ADORABLE Holly Days Candy Bar Wrap Download and also some simple and fast gift ideas!

christmas card photo show off

2012-11-19T08:46:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I took the pics of Jackson that we'll be using for the Christmas card this year! I can't wait to start designing it...I LOVE doing that. :) It's one of my favorite things!

Here's just a sampling of the handsome pictures my little man took :) I'll show you the final Christmas card as soon as I'm done-of course!

AND...GUESS WHAT'S COMING NEXT WEDNESDAY NOV 28th??!?!

how does the Photo Show Off work?

- follow, subscribe to, or become a fan of love bug.

- link up your photos!

- link back to the show off somewhere on your blog, using my button or just a text link.

- check out other links and leave comments.

- come back next week to show off again!
-if your photo was a Show Off this week, grab the button and show it off!

shakeology fudge bar yumminess

2012-11-16T07:00:00.000-06:00

Your Mouth Is Watering...

Isn't It?

By now you guys should know how much I think eating healthy is important and how I truly try to feed my family only healthy, whole ingredients with sugary snacks at an absolute minimum. You've heard me preach about your once a week Open Meal and how if you plan out your healthy meals and give yourself one open meal a week, you'll soon see that you don't even WANT those sugary snacks anymore.

Oh, but you'll want this. Trust me here.

Did you guys know that I kind of obsess over finding or creating awesome recipes that transform otherwise junky toxic food into delicious healthy options you can actually eat?? Ah, well. The cat's outta the bag now, huh? So you can imagine when I saw this chocolatey fudge bar made with Shakeology how the happy meter in my head totally shot off the charts, yeah?

If you love chocolate Shakeology as much as I do...and you love fudge as much as I do...ahem...then I know this is a treat for you. And can you believe it? You can make these bars for Thanksgiving and you CAN eat them. I've given you permission.

You're welcome.

How do they taste?

The classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter meld together in this brownie-like ooey gooey treat.

How do you make them?

Total Time: 1 hr., 10 min. Prep Time: 10 min. Yield: 4 bars

Ingredients:
• 1 scoop Chocolate Shakeology
• 1 scoop Beachbody Whey Protein Powder (or any whey protein powder without artificial sweeteners)
• ½ cup natural peanut butter
• ½ banana
• ½ cup rolled oats

Preparation:1. Mix all ingredients together. 2. Freeze for at least 90 minutes in an 8" x 8" pan. 4. Remove from freezer, cut into 4 squares.

No cooking, no fuss, no junk. Can I get an Amen??

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 249

Fat: 10g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 13mg

Sodium: 76g

Carbohydrate: 25g

Fiber: 4g

Sugar Total: 6g

Protein: 16g

I just have one question...since Shakeology is a meal replacement...does that mean I can eat these Shakeology Fudge Bars for breakfast??? ;-)

Don't have Chocolate Shakeology yet? I've got you covered:

GET YOURS HERE

Don't forget about the AMAZING GIVEAWAY with me, Life n Reflection and VPhoneGirl on Wednesday! Super duper prizes to be won!

NOV 28th- DEC 5th

i'm back with a photo show off!

2012-11-14T08:20:00.002-06:00

Hi there! Ok so randomly yesterday my internet just COMES UP. Hubbs says it was all the video files I was uploading...um. Whatevs. I don't think so. Why would it just out of nowhere come back? I'm thinking it was Comcast.

Anyway!!

I have 2 LOVELY photos for you guys this week! But there were TONS of photos that deserve to be shown off so please, please make sure you click through them all from the last Photo Show Off!

LOOK at this amazingness by Susi K! This wonderful sunset is at her park. I can't even believe the colors. I want to see those colors! Go check out the rest of the fabulous shots here!

So apparently at first glance, Twiggy HATED this shot. I say, what?!?! This is magical! That bokeh gets me, especially the big ones up in the corners. But I just love the colors too. I think it's wonderful! She ended up liking it...considering it a happy failure of course. :) Go check out what she says and her other amazing shots on her site here!

These are just two of the awesome shots that were added. I feel bad I can't post up all 69 pictures for you. So make sure you go click through, ok?

I want to let you guys in on a secret today before we start showing off.....Life n Reflection, VPhoneGirl and I have another giveaway coming up!! Aren't you EXCITED!!

GET READY FOR THE HOLLY DAYS GIVEAWAY GUYS!!

NOV 28th-DEC 5th!

get excited for some AWESOME prizes! (and tons of bonus gifts as usual!!!)

how does the Photo Show Off work?:

- follow, subscribe to, or become a fan of love bug.

- link up your photos!

- link back to the show off somewhere on your blog, using my button or just a text link.

- check out other links and leave comments.

- come back next week to show off again!
-if your photo was a Show Off this week, grab the button and show it off!

I'm disconnected!

2012-11-13T08:11:00.001-06:00

Hey friends!
Just wanted to let you know I killed my Internet...well I don't know if I did it...lol but my hubbs seems to think so :). I am on my phone right now adding this post...but I promise promise the photo show off will be up as soon as my Internet comes back!

Thanks for understanding!

On a good note, check out my awesome new planner board to help me plan my posts better! Woo hoo organization!

Ok, talk soon!

Love,
Amy

something to get you in the christmas spirit!

2012-11-09T07:43:00.001-06:00

Well it's been slow around these parts...but since October is FINALLY over (yay!) and there's about 2 weeks of crazy mad wedding season left, I promise we'll be kicking the dust off soon and we'll get back to visiting with each other! I've missed you guys!

Even though it's been busy, I have kept up with our friend Kristy from Life n Reflection, and good thing! She's got this incredible thing to share!!

Do you ever feel like Christmas sneaks up on you? Um, yeah hello. Welcome to my life. Well not anymore! Kristy in all her creative and organized awesomeness made a Christmas Countdown Planner that I will be using DILIGENTLY this year! (I mean come on. We can ALL tell I'm way to busy to think for myself when it comes to making Christmas awesome!)

This is how it seriously goes down for me. Thanksgiving comes and goes and it's a nice relaxing week at the ranch. I get back and ohmygosh! It's time to put up Christmas decorations! So my husband gets everything out of the attic and puts up Christmas lights. And then the boxes of decorations sit. And sit. And sit. And then about, oh....December 15th or so I figure I better put some stuff up, huh? So I put up our Christmas palm tree (that has lights already strung for me) and the stockings up and then I'm set. Around, say....December 20th I start thinking, crap! I better start shopping for Christmas presents, huh? No lie. (Did I mention it took me until March this year to take my Christmas tree down?!?)

CAN ANYONE SAY I'M IN NEED OF A CHRISTMAS INTERVENTION?!?!

I seriously long to feel the way I felt when I was little at Christmastime! My son is old enough now where he gets all excited for Christmas and I have the opportunity to make it this spectacular event! I need to be doing that. That's why when I saw this Christmas Countdown Planner I knew I'd be using it this year. (Kristy, MAKE me actually print it out!)

So in my attempt to get fired up for the upcoming season, I asked Kristy a few questions about it and about her planner! Here's how it went down:

*What is this planner about?
- This is a whimsical, yet practical guide to creating your ideal Christmas Extravaganza. You will learn how to plan AND enjoy Christmas crafts, baking, decorating, gift giving and entertaining before Jolly Old Saint Nick slides down your chimney.

*Who is this planner for? (besides me of course)
If you have ever felt like the Christmas season “came and went” without notice or hesitation - this guide is for you! (is it crazy you're reading my mind here? did you make this for me specifically?)

*What is your favorite thing about Christmas?
OMGoodness how can I choose? I love the classic holiday tunes, wrapping gifts, and sending & receiving homemade holiday cards in the mail. But most of all - I love day dreaming next to the warmth of the fireplace and under the glow of the Christmas tree.

*What is the first recipe that you'll put on the Recipe Cards?
Hmm, well truth is I'm not super great in the kitchen. But, I never give up! My Husband and I actually take turns cooking each week. We feel it takes the stress out of it and we're less likely to feel burned out, like the smores I burnt last night in the microwave.
(ummm...you help me plan for Christmas, I'll help you cook. Deal?)
So, what will I be adding first to recipe cards - a new homemade chicken and dumplings soup. We've mastered Chill, Chicken Noodles, Tomato Basil, French Onion, so it's about we learn to make this American favorite too!

*What are two things on YOUR Christmas wish list pages?
Books, Books, Books - I want Tone Finnanger complete Homestyle collection and Santa just might bring my first Kindle too!

Oh how I wish I had a fireplace! It's not so common here in South Texas, but my next house...I promise it will have it! You guys, I can't tell you enough how excited I am to download and print the Christmas Planner.

Here's a sneak peek of what all is inside:

40+ Pages stuffed full of planners, checklists, guides, and everything you need to make this your BEST Christmas EVER!!!

✓ Snap Happy Christmas Photo Checklist
✓ Christmas Card Planner
✓ 2 Gift Boxes
✓ 12 Wish List Note Cards
✓ Holiday Decorating Guide with a Room by Room Planner
✓ 4 Gift Bag Toppers
✓ 12 Gift Tags
✓ Menus & Recipe Cards
✓ Holiday Baking Guide & Planners
✓ Countdown Activity Guide, Planner, Note Cards, & More

So I'm going to get it. And I'm going to print it out on pretty pearly white card stock and make it a fun activity to do...and my plan is to post along the way as I get things done!

I always hate when stores start Christmas planning this early...but clearly what I'm doing isn't working...LOL!!! So I'm thinking it's time to start now. Maybe these stores are onto something...

HERE'S WHERE YOU CAN GET YOUR CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN PLANNER!

Guys, if you do this too, promise me you'll share your projects on your blog and post a link on the comments! I'm so excited to see what all everyone does with this amazing planner!

THANK YOU KRISTY! YOU ROCK! I'M IN THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT ALREADY!

***by the way, the opinions on this post are mine. Life N Reflection did not pay me to write this post. Nope...I really do think this thing rocks. Well and Kristy rocks, so there ya have it.

photo show off!

2012-11-05T12:17:00.001-06:00

It's Photo Show Off Day!! We're going to do one more week for the last link up...so go ahead and LINK 'EM UP! Share it with your friends and fellow bloggers too, so there are more folks to see! Oh, and one more thing...be sure to go to a few of the link ups and leave an awesome comment :) We're making ourselves a big, beautiful photog family here, aren't we!?

My little (or big?) show off for the day is the fun pics of my family at my sis in law's wedding! I know you've been waiting on these! Please forgive my husband...he is a nut case. :D

The MEGA fun Photo Booth. We are a little crazy...I know.

My little man and his grandad playing. Jackson wore himself out that night.

Family pics!

Told ya my hubbs was a bit crazy....LOL. But he did actually CRY! And it was DOCUMENTED!

No wedding is complete without a little beer pong. Oh and a chest bump from the winners :)

We seriously had SO MUCH FUN. But you can see why it took me a full week to recover...um...let's just say we ~~got a little crazy~~ used up all our energy that evening. :D It was fabulous and beautiful and SO FUN! I'm so glad Jenny was there to share the day with us, she really is the BEST photographer I know. ;) ;)

You guys can check out the rest of the wedding on our blog: JW Baugh Photography

how does the Photo Show Off work?:

- follow, subscribe to, or become a fan of love bug.

- link up your photos!

- link back to the show off somewhere on your blog, using my button or just a text link.

- check out other links and leave comments.

- come back next week to show off again!
-if your photo was a Show Off this week, grab the button and show it off!

more photos to show off!

2012-10-29T09:32:00.002-05:00

Here's a little sneak peek into my sister in law's wedding! It was FABULOUS and just...well magnificent and amazing and she was beautiful and...I could go on forever.

And my little man was such an adorable little ring bearer I just had to show him off today. I hope you'll show off some more of your pics from this past week! I'm LOVING all the pics you've shared so far! Be sure to click around and comment on the other awesome work you see!

I promise you this collage will be HUMONGOUS in my house very, very soon. This right here...Jenny just captured Jackson's personality in these 3 shots. She's amazing.

If you want to see the beautiful pictures of my sis in law's wedding, you can see the blog post HERE! Be ready to gasp and laugh and cry. :) (I seriously LOVE my job. I feel like a wedding crasher every single weekend. And even more lucky for me, for this wedding, I got to party while Jenny crashed the wedding! It was SO fun!...you'll see me in there, and my husband and his Dance Part USA-esque dance moves LOL)

how does the Photo Show Off work?:

- follow, subscribe to, or become a fan of love bug.

- link up your photos!

- link back to the show off somewhere on your blog, using my button or just a text link.

- check out other links and leave comments.

- come back next week to show off again!
-if your photo was a Show Off this week, grab the button and show it off!

photo show off

2012-10-22T07:20:00.000-05:00

Hi friends! How is everyone this morning? I hope you guys are great!
Well, we've got one double wedding weekend down and one to go! October is the perfect month here in Texas apparently for weddings. (Just tell me to breathe, I can do it! haha!)

Last week we had so many wonderful entries to the Photo Show Off! I love going through all of the photos and seeing the wonderful work you guys do! Whether it's art, or just every day life. It's all so fun and beautiful!

Here's some that I really loved!

This AMAZING macro from Mrs. Southern Bride, isn't it lovely?? And it sounds like she has just as insane a schedule as me! haha! You MUST go check out her other images, the shots are beautiful!!

Ok, tell me this photo is not AMAZING?? Do you see it? Something about the abstract quality, the graininess...the bug splatters...LOL I LOVE IT. haha!! Is that my artist brain going a little crazy? This work of art comes to us from Emily at Stop! She's Got A Camera. (LOVE that name!) The rest of the images in her series are great and there's some that are SO CUTE you have to go check them out! Super close macros, details that tell a story...Emily, you are a photographer after my own heart. :)

Well this week instead of showing off my own shots, I want to show off some sweetness from Alicia over at Project Alicia. When I saw what she did with the Life n Reflection Autumn Day Canvas Templates, I have to admit I was a bit envious I didn't think of it myself!! LOL! Alicia, I'm going to have to steal the window idea, ok??? I LOVE IT!

Tell me that's not AMAZINGNESS?? That would fit so perfectly in my office. Stealing it! (Thanks Kristy and Alicia!)

If you guys want to do it as well, just download the templates from our favorite friend Kristy over at Life n Reflection. Then check out her video tutorial to see how to make it your own masterpiece!

how does the Photo Show Off work?:

- follow, subscribe to, or become a fan of love bug.

- link up your photos!

- link back to the show off somewhere on your blog, using my button or just a text link.

- check out other links and leave comments.

- come back next week to show off again!
-if your photo was a Show Off this week, grab the button and show it off!

photos to show off!

2012-10-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

This weekend was CRAZY but so wonderful! And I can't share the bride pics yet, but when I can I promise I'll link you up! I was in my sister in law's fabulous wedding and Jenny shot it. SO amazing. I can't wait to share.

But I can leave you with one adorable show off...my son (the ring bearer) walking down the aisle. He's such a stud, if I do say so myself! HAHA!

how does the Photo Show Off work?:

- follow, subscribe to, or become a fan of love bug.

- link up your photos!

- link back to the show off somewhere on your blog, using my button or just a text link.

- check out other links and leave comments.

- come back next week to show off again!
-if your photo was a Show Off this week, grab the button and show it off!

the cheapest way to lose weight

2012-10-11T11:30:00.001-05:00

Hi friends! I just wanted to make sure I let you know about a super duper sale that Beachbody is having right now!

You can get the entire RevAbs 90 Day Program for only $29!!! Say what??? Yep. That's right mommas! Do you need to lose that baby weight? Is there still some stubborn belly hanging on? Well you're not going to have to pay tons at a gym for it. You could join my RevAbs Challenge Group! I'll be burning the belly fat right along with you!!

Reveal Your Six-Pack
With Brett Hoebel's proven Abcentrics™ training technique, you'll learn to work your abs from six different angles, and to engage your abdominal muscles throughout your entire workout so every move counts. You'll build a lean, strong physique with a variety of lively exercises, including the acrobatic martial art known as Capoeira.

Here's what you get:
12 Workouts on 10 DVDs:

Abcentrics. Abcentrics teaches you Brett’s proven technique for firing your abs to get maximum results. Master this, and you’re on your way to an awesome six-pack. (approx. 8 min.)
Capoeira. In Capoeira, you learn Brett's favorite moves from this unique Brazilian martial art. (approx. 15 min.)
Fire Up Your Abs. Scorch calories with explosive cardio intervals and Brett's Six-Pack moves, his signature ab circuit that works your core from 6 different angles for 6 times the results. (approx. 40 min.)
Power Intervals. Rev up your metabolism with high-intensity cardio that includes intervals of lower-body resistance moves. You'll melt belly fat, sculpt lean legs, firm your glutes, and work your abs—all at the same time. (approx. 30 min.)
Total Strength. Strength training is essential if you want great abs. Strong, lean muscles are your best friends in the fight against fat. (approx. 45 min.)
Mercy Abs. Short but tough, this ab workout pushes you hard and leaves you begging for mercy. (approx. 15 min.)
Rev It Up Cardio. Forget boring treadmills. This workout is spiced with capoeira and kickboxing moves to burn the fat off your abs and your entire body. (approx. 45 min.)
Fat-Burning Abs. Feel the burn with new ab and cardio combinations that will have your heart pounding and your abs screaming.
(approx. 40 min.)
Power Intervals 2. Kick up the intensity with lower-body resistance moves and even more extreme cardio for increased belly-fat burning. (approx. 30 min.)
Strength & Endurance. Rock-hard abs, meet rock-hard body. This total-body workout defines your abs and sculpts your entire body. (approx. 30 min.)
Merciless Abs. Make your abs pop with this 15-minute ab shredder. Brett ups the intensity and shows your core no mercy. (approx. 15 min.)
Full Throttle Abs. Go for all-out intensity in this fully charged ab workout that will blast the fat and make your midsection rock-solid. (approx. 40 min.)
Full Throttle Intervals. Shift into high gear with hard-core intervals that will rev up your results. Go longer and harder. (approx. 45 min.)

You also get these tools:

RevGuide. Get the most out of RevAbs and learn the personal weight loss philosophy that Brett teaches all of his training clients.
RevAbs Day-by-Day Calendar. You’ll always know which RevAbs workout to do each day for maximum results. It also helps you keep track of your progress.
Measuring Tape and Tracker. Watch the inches melt away and log your RevAbs results with our handy measuring tape and progress tracker.

Plus, get these 4 FREE bonus gifts to keep you motivated ($220.00 VALUE):

14-Day Jump-Start Program. Kick off your weight loss and accelerate your results. You can lose 10 pounds and a whole size in the first 2 weeks.
Eating for Abs Nutritional Guide. Get delicious, easy-to-prepare meals and recipes. Eat right and you’ll get flat, firm abs without starvation or deprivation.
Anytime, Anywhere Abs I and II. On the road or can’t get to your TV? Take these RevAbs workouts anywhere and do them anytime.
24-Hour Online Support. Get FREE access to live chats with Brett, diet and fitness advice, and incredible peer support.

And if you order with ME you get a BONUS WORKOUT! woo hoo!:

4x4 Workout. Brett brings you another level of ab sculpting. All you need is 16 minutes, a 4'x4' space, and your own body weight to help you reveal tight, toned abs. Available only on Team Beachbody.
A $19.95 value—FREE FROM ME!

90-Day Money-Back Guarantee
*Try this program with the RevAbs 90-Day Money-Back Guarantee. If you're not satisfied with your results within 90 days, simply call Customer Service to return the program for the full purchase price, less s&h—no questions asked.

Consult your physician and follow all safety instructions before beginning any exercise program.

Check out Shelleen's results! 19lbs and 8 inches!

GIRLS!! I'm so excited to start! I have this last bit on my belly from having my son and I just KNOW this program will eliminate that! Who wants to do this with me? This program is normally $90, but now it's only $29!! That's 64% off!! Not to mention all the free stuff I'm gonna give ya!

photo show off for real!

2012-10-10T06:46:00.000-05:00

OK! It's finally here. Hello all Wordless Wednesday folks! You are ABSOLUTELY welcome to join in the fun!

First for the amazing show offs this round.

I think you all already know how much I love weddings, right? I mean, it is my full time job! Sarah over at Sarah's Camera captured this one BEAUTIFULLY. I love the detail shots. Just amazing and a MUST SEE! Get on over and visit her!

How AWESOME is that perspective? On both the shots?!?
The one on the left comes to us from Kim over at My Pinterest Reality and I just LOVE the tone and the angle. So unique! There's other fun pics from their adventure there so make sure you visit her!
The one on the right is from Lisa at the Home Spun Life and it just caught my eye immediately. Such beautiful, warm colors. Reminds me of Tennessee in the fall...Texas doesn't look this beautiful, heck it's still 90 degrees in Texas, so I'm absolutely thrilled to be able to share in this beauty!

For my show off this week, I want to give you a little baby love. :) My good friend Brooke finally had her little rock star Kirby and Jenny and I were lucky enough to take his newborn pics. HE. IS. PRECIOUS. And my Jackson loves him so much. My gosh I could hold and kiss this baby boy forever!! (It still doesn't make me want one of my own though...just to clarify. MOM.) hehe

ISN'T HE SO PRECIOUS!?! You can see more on OUR PHOTO BLOG!

how does the Photo Show Off work?:

- follow, subscribe to, or become a fan of love bug.

- link up your photos!

- link back to the show off somewhere on your blog, using my button or just a text link.

- check out other links and leave comments.

- come back next week to show off again!
-if your photo was a Show Off this week, grab the button and show it off!

Hey! Before you go! I have something for you! A FREE RECIPE of Pecan Pralines courtesy of our friend Kristy from Life N Reflection!! YUMMM.... Click the card to visit her blog and get the recipe and a super sweet idea of how to package them up! (Can anyone say teacher's gifts? So simple!)

this week's photo show off on hold

2012-10-08T06:46:00.002-05:00

Oh guys. It's been a heck of a week. You won't even believe me when I tell you I don't think.

To start, I went to the doc for my ankle and there is no stress fracture, which is wonderful. But I am supposed to be resting it and taking anti-inflammatories for 2 weeks and remain in the boot. And that's SO HARD TO DO!! If you're new here, read about my ankle surgery journey here.

Then a chest cold decided to attack me. (lovely) so I was pretty much down for the count for a few days. Despite that, I still had to show up for the shoot for the Alzheimer's Walk, which I actually had a BLAST at, sick or not!

Well, then out of the blue I get a text message that one of my swimmers (from when I was a highschool coach a year ago) only had DAYS to live. Needless to say I was shocked and stunned...and not sure whether to be grief stricken or just plain not believe it. She was fine the last time I saw her!!

But it was true. Emily passed away the next morning from stage 4 melanoma. She had gotten a mole removed when I was her coach, but really we thought they got it all. No worries. Apparently over the last year, they realized they hadn't gotten it all. And it had progressed to stage 4. She went through chemo and treatments and she was fighting, always staying positive. The other swimmers were just amazed at her strength. I'm amazed at her strength.

But I guess God decided He needed Emily with him, maybe teaching the little angels how to swim. And Monday she ended her fight.

I am sad for her sister and parents. It seriously breaks my heart into pieces for them. And I am heartbroken for my swimmers too that are swarmed with grief right now. They are so strong because of Emily. They decorated the whole pool for her, made t-shirts and signs and even held a swim meet in her honor. My wonderful, huge hearted swimmers.

And I am overwhelmed with how much Emily touched everyone at that school, all those swimmers, even people in the hospital getting chemo with her. She was an even brighter star than I ever took the time to know. I wish I'd taken more time. I hate regrets like that.

In the end, I can remember that she was a girl I could ALWAYS count on. She ALWAYS did her best and expected it from others too. She always wore a smile and she laughed so much. And the best part is that she clearly loved as much as she laughed.

Prayers to the family and the swimmers, and Emily- we'll all see you again one day, but in the meantime...you did a wonderful job down here. You are a blessing.

Just wanted to let you know that I will be doing the Photo Show Off, it'll just be Wednesday this week instead of today. I felt that Emily's story needed a bit more than just one paragraph to share.

Don't forget to love those around you!!

last day! get entered in the giveaway!

2012-10-03T09:41:00.001-05:00

Hi friends! I just wanted to jump on here really quickly and remind you guys, TODAY is the last day to get entered into the Finding Fall Giveaway with myself, Life n Reflection and VPhoneGirl! Awesome chances for awesome prizes! Have you entered yet? Even if you have, there's some entries you can do more than once! Here you go:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Here's just a glimpse at the Fall Inspired Prizes!

1stPrize - Autumn Mini Canvas Set
2ndPrize - Fall Faves Accordion Book
3rdPrize - Harvest Photo Wallet Set

Each winner will take home a set of the Finding Fall Tags AND the 1st Prize winner will also get this set of Hand Embroidered Kitchen Towels!!

Be sure to visit my co-hosts: my dear friend Kristy over at Life n Reflection and her big Sis at Vphonegirl for so much more!!

photo show off

2012-10-01T12:02:00.001-05:00

What a busy weekend!!! Bachelorette party to throw, a wedding to shoot, a football game to attend! It was TONS of fun though!
There's one more week in this round of Photo Show Off so make sure you get to showing off! And don't forget, there's 3 more days to enter the Finding Fall Giveaway!

AWESOME seats right behind the opposing team, our favorite: the Tennessee Titans!!

how does the Photo Show Off work?:

- follow, subscribe to, or become a fan of love bug.

- link up your photos!

- link back to the show off somewhere on your blog, using my button or just a text link.

- check out other links and leave comments.

- come back next week to show off again!
-if your photo was a Show Off this week, grab the button and show it off!

3 MORE DAYS TO ENTER!!

The absolutely AMAZING GIVEAWAY with LoveBug, Life N Reflection and VPhoneGirl!!

Are you ready for Fall? Cool weather, colorful leaves....beautiful warm photographs? I know I am! Well, this giveaway is complete with everything you need to make your fall images and scrapbooks AMAZING! 3 different blogs, 3 different chances to win! GET READY!

my favorite fall photos

2012-09-28T07:30:00.000-05:00

Fall for my family includes a yearly trip to the Ranch for Thanksgiving. I love the escape, it's SO wonderful. My husband shoots a ton of deer and packs our fridge full of venison. I shoot a TON of pictures and pack my computer full of images!! HAH!!

I just wanted to share today with you guys some of my favorite images that I've taken in the fall. At the Ranch, at home, doesn't matter. Fall is one of my favorite times to photograph because of all the wonderful colors all around us! Everything is so warm, so inviting. It makes for beautiful pictures, that's for sure.


The amazing Dos Angeles Ranch sunset. It really is unbelievable


Sun flares and fall flowers. My favorite things to photograph!

Saying goodbye to the Dos Angeles Ranch is always hard. Back to reality

TIP OF THE DAY: How to capture a sunflare

1. The best time of day to catch sun flares is when the sun is relatively low and behind your subject. The golden hours before sunset {1-2 hours prior} are best. You can also achieve the look mid-morning but it's easier at sunset.
2. Make sure your subject is in between you and the light source. This will provide nice backlighting and make them look like they are bathed in the light.

3. Keep your aperture closed. It’s easier to achieve sun flare when you are shooting with a smaller aperture {f/12 vs. f/2}.

4. And while you’re at it, keep your ISO low. 100 or 200 is best!

5. Don’t focus on the sun! You want your focal point to be on your subject with the sun {or light source} in the back. You may need to use manual focusing but I have never run to that problem.

6. Move around. Twist the camera, get low on the ground and shoot up at your subject. You have to move around your subject to get the look that you are desiring. You WILL see the flare in your viewfinder! Sometimes even a rainbow! Catching sun flares is really fun!

Once you start shooting sun flares, I don't think you'll ever be able to stop. I know I can't!

DON'T FORGET ABOUT THE Life n Reflection, VPhoneGirl and Love Bug GIVEAWAY! GET ENTERED TO WIN 3 GREAT PRIZES FROM 3 DIFFERENT BLOGS!

finding fall giveaway is HERE!

2012-09-26T07:26:00.001-05:00

Even though I am a summer girl at heart, I love so much about fall!! The cool weather, the colorful leaves and tons of landscape just aching to be photographed! As well as hot apple cider and pecan pie to mention afew.. What are your favorite things about Fall? (Oh, also...Pinkberry has this amazing frozen yogurt...salted caramel....yummmmm)

Well, my friends, I am so excited to bring you the FINDING FALL GIVEAWAY in hopes you'llfall in love with the season too! Joinus for blog hop full of fall tutorials, free downloads, and several pieces of rich, creamy, gooey inspiration... Oh. Sorry. I'm thinking about pecan pie again. (I could seriously eat an entire pie by myself!) :)

Here'sjust a glimpse at the Fall Inspired Prizes!

1stPrize - Autumn Mini Canvas Set
2ndPrize - Fall Faves Accordion Book
3rdPrize - Harvest Photo Wallet Set

Eachwinner will take home a set of the Finding Fall Tags AND the 1st Prize winner will also get this set of Hand Embroidered Kitchen Towels!!

Be sure to visit my co-hosts: my dear friend Kristy over at Life n Reflection and her big Sis at Vphonegirl for so much more!!

1stPrize - Autumn Mini Canvas Set
2ndPrize - Fall Faves Accordion Book
3rdPrize - Harvest Photo Wallet Set

AND

Eachwinner will take home a set of the Finding Fall Tags

ALSO CHECK THIS OUT!

This awesome Great Pumpkin Party Sign from Life n Reflection TOTALLY inspired me! I decided to do a little crafting. (I know, me?? Yeah. Me!) If you want this Great Pumpkin Party Sign (and I know you do!) click on the image above and download it for FREE! (Everyone say THANK YOU KRISTY....)

Me and boog taped and painted a pumpkin! So much easier than carving, let me tell you!


I also wrapped a natural wreath in some rafia, clipped on a flower and some wire butterflies!

And this is the final outcome! I actually have a festive porch you guys!!! And all for less than $30. YEAH!! Make sure you get your Great Pumpkin sign! It's so cute, isn't it?? And with my son being the HUGE Charlie Brown fan he is, I couldn't pass this party sign up!

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

NEXT ON THE BLOG HOP GIVEAWAY!

Hop on over and see Kristy at Life n Reflection for a super sweet fall party in a box idea and a harvest time home decor project!

And be sure you check out my Summer in the Fall recipe!

love.bug.

I'm still here

last photo show off of 2012!!

Have a great and safe New Years Eve!! See you in 2013!!

how does the Photo Show Off work?

Healthy Eats: Lemon Cottage Cheese Griddlecakes

A Healthy and Delicious Start to Your Morning

With This Clean Eating Recipe

boys in blue photo show off

how does the Photo Show Off work?

friday fancies

Soft Pink Holiday

counting down to christmas!

AND BEFORE WE GO:

I want to announce the winners of the Holly Days Giveaway with Life n Reflection and VPhoneGirl!

DRUMROLL PLEASE.................................

a Rafflecopter giveaway

christmas card photo show off part 2

how does the Photo Show Off work?

Click this IMAGE to head on over to the GIVEAWAY!

See you there! I hope you win!!

holly days giveaway

Here's a peek at the Holly Days Prizes!

Christmas Tree Countdown Project

christmas card photo show off

how does the Photo Show Off work?

shakeology fudge bar yumminess

Your Mouth Is Watering...

Isn't It?

Oh, but you'll want this. Trust me here.

No cooking, no fuss, no junk. Can I get an Amen??

I just have one question...since Shakeology is a meal replacement...does that mean I can eat these Shakeology Fudge Bars for breakfast??? ;-)

GET YOURS HERE

READ MORE ABOUT IT

Don't forget about the AMAZING GIVEAWAY with me, Life n Reflection and VPhoneGirl on Wednesday! Super duper prizes to be won!

NOV 28th- DEC 5th

i'm back with a photo show off!

GET READY FOR THE HOLLY DAYS GIVEAWAY GUYS!!

NOV 28th-DEC 5th!

get excited for some AWESOME prizes! (and tons of bonus gifts as usual!!!)

how does the Photo Show Off work?:

I'm disconnected!

something to get you in the christmas spirit!

HERE'S WHERE YOU CAN GET YOUR CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN PLANNER!

photo show off!

how does the Photo Show Off work?:

more photos to show off!

how does the Photo Show Off work?:

photo show off

how does the Photo Show Off work?:

photos to show off!

how does the Photo Show Off work?:

the cheapest way to lose weight

GIRLS!! I'm so excited to start! I have this last bit on my belly from having my son and I just KNOW this program will eliminate that! Who wants to do this with me? This program is normally $90, but now it's only $29!! That's 64% off!! Not to mention all the free stuff I'm gonna give ya!

photo show off for real!

how does the Photo Show Off work?:

Hey! Before you go! I have something for you! A FREE RECIPE of Pecan Pralines courtesy of our friend Kristy from Life N Reflection!! YUMMM.... Click the card to visit her blog and get the recipe and a super sweet idea of how to package them up! (Can anyone say teacher's gifts? So simple!)

this week's photo show off on hold

last day! get entered in the giveaway!

photo show off

3 MORE DAYS TO ENTER!!

The absolutely AMAZING GIVEAWAY with LoveBug, Life N Reflection and VPhoneGirl!!

Are you ready for Fall? Cool weather, colorful leaves....beautiful warm photographs? I know I am! Well, this giveaway is complete with everything you need to make your fall images and scrapbooks AMAZING! 3 different blogs, 3 different chances to win! GET READY!

my favorite fall photos

TIP OF THE DAY: How to capture a sunflare

DON'T FORGET ABOUT THE Life n Reflection, VPhoneGirl and Love Bug GIVEAWAY! GET ENTERED TO WIN 3 GREAT PRIZES FROM 3 DIFFERENT BLOGS!

finding fall giveaway is HERE!

NEXT ON THE BLOG HOP GIVEAWAY!