The Wiegands

big news! American Blogger. The Movie.

2013-05-16T21:47:00.000-05:00

How do I even begin this post? With huge huge butterflies in my tummy, that's how!

As I started down this blogging journey so much has happened. I have connected with friends all over the world, I have worked with amazing companies, I have cried over my keyboard and laughed hysterically.

As you know my Chris has posted films here on this space from my first days of posting. He is unbelievable! So many of you cheered him on in last year's 168 film festival when he brought home numerous awards all the way to when he went freelance and started his very own film company.

Chris has had the idea for over a year now to travel the entire United States. To go out on a journey to talk to these bloggers that I love so dearly....that so many of you love so dearly. Then more recently we realized that this dream was going to actually happen!

A DOCUMENTARY ON AMERICAN BLOGGERS.

"AMERICAN BLOGGER"

"What started this whole film idea for me was how my wife loves to blog/instagram so much and she is always meeting new people and, in most cases, really (sincerely) connecting with people around the country (and world). I was really more interested to dig deeper into all this blogging/instagram/twittter world and one, help people understand how cool it is to have an area on the internet that is all yours. And two, I hope to sort-of take a visual snapshot of this time in history when all these instagrammers/bloggers are able to put something out there into the world and really shape culture (in a positive way). An example of a visual element (besides the interviews and actual stories) - Imagine a woman sitting in a skyscraper apartment in NY and she reaches in her pocket and grabs a phone, takes a pic of the city below and uploads it. Then imaging another, sitting on a porch looking at the mountains, grabs their phone, takes a pic, and uploads it. This is so visually beautiful because they are both doing the exact same thing from two completely different worlds and perspectives. I think this is important to show the differences and similarities!!! I truly think this will be a emotional movie as well as a big hit."

The plan is that he will travel the US in our airstream ( over an 8 week period). He will be filming and documenting his journey the entire way as well as taking pictures. The neat thing about him traveling on the road is that he can stop and create time lapses (like this one) and dig deeper into certain stories if need be. He has his cast set ( he has had people inquire about this and you never know...there could always be an American Blogger 2 to tell a whole new round of stories, there are SO many amazing stories out there to still be heard!) I cannot wait for you to see who all he has on board. He will be blogging about this journey (I will be sharing snippets as well) and also sharing along the way on instagram (hashtag #americanblogger).

This is to share the beauty and emotion about this community and this time period. So many of these ladies I have followed and adored for so long and to know how Chris tells stories through film, I am just beside myself with excitement to see the final product!

Once he is completely finished, we will sell the film on iTunes! Each of the bloggers involved will be showing the film trailer, a few outtakes and a link to where it can be purchased!

This is obviously a huge financial risk for our family but we are so excited about the movie and just thrilled by the support we have received already!! Thank you so so much!!

Next week I will be running an Instagram giveaway as an incentive to help spread the word about this film !

Some more airstream renovation pics!

sweet made sweeter.

2013-05-15T22:35:00.001-05:00

Recently we took the kids out for a day of fun and one of our stops was at Wendy's to try the new Frosty Waffle cones!

The first question was vanilla or chocolate?!! We had to try one of each ;).

My kids had never tried french fries dipped into a frosty before so we introduced them to this yummy treat and they were smitten! Chris is getting prepared to leave for eight weeks and so spending these days together has been extra special and extra bittersweet.

Chris working from home means eating lunch with him everyday, being able to walk down the hall to his office to ask him to take an edit break to go to the park and a hundred other reasons why his freelance job makes our hearts soar. Not having him around will be a huge change and taking these last days to really soak in family time has been incredible sweet.

Thanks Wendy's for making our sweet day, that much sweeter!

Full Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Wendy's, though all opinions expressed are my own.

my heartbeats.

2013-05-14T21:32:00.000-05:00

Sweet Dreams by Jewel on Grooveshark

My heartbeats.
Spending the day with them on Sunday was all I could ever ask for or dream of.

I shared some thoughts on motherhood on Friday in honor of mother's day but had something hard pressed on my heart.

Sunday morning at church we were running late so we sat on the second row... which we don't normally do.

There are two places near the front where people can come up and kneel during worship... a place to come lay your burdens down. Our pastor is so wonderful and he said that he wanted to celebrate the mamas but also wanted to acknowledge and be sensitive to those who are desperately longing to be mothers.

He prayed that the desires of these hearts would be met...whether it be in their own womb or in another's womb through adoption.

And as I sat on the second row and saw women come up and kneel with tears streaming... my heart ached & tears fell. I have a few very dear friends in this place right now and it's such a heartbreaking season.

To the mamas.
and the mamas to be.

You were each celebrated & prayed for this Sunday.

kid's clothes c/o: the printed palette // ainsleigh headband c/o: just dawnelle //

apple headband c/o: lemons & lace

Crib Bedding Giveaway.

2013-05-14T00:13:00.000-05:00

^^ WIN this gorgeous crib bedding ^^

You will love what I am about to share with you, guys!

Some of you might have heard of the new online magazine, Daily Mom, that just launched last month. It's an amazing resource of posts and articles for the modern woman and mom. Imagine Pinterest worthy posts with useful information about all aspects of life - from parenting to beauty, fashion, green living, health, fitness, and more. Once you visit Daily Mom, you will be hooked - jumping from one post to another.

I have partnered with Daily Mom to host one of their giveaways as a part of an extensive 50 Days of Giveaways campaign to celebrate their launch. For 50 days, they will be giving away one awesome prize a day to thank their new readers.

So today we're giving an opportunity for one lucky reader to win
the Modern Berries Crib Set from Oilo.

Oilo offers high quality, modern design for all your nursery needs. Be sure to check out their products on their website. Keep in the loop by following them on Facebook†and Twitter. †And of course, enter below for a chance to win. The giveaway will run for a week, and there are only two mandatory entries with many optional ones. All you have to do is follow the directions below in the Rafflecopter widget. This giveaway is open to legal US and Canadian residents only. And be sure to visit Daily Mom tomorrow to see what new item they are giving away and to enter previous drawings! The prizes range from strollers to high chairs, monitors, diaper bags, fashion items, baby clothing and photography products. There is something for everyone.

Need Help? Don't have a Facebook account to enter with? Email Daily Mom staff!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

After you've entered the giveaway, be sure to browse Daily Mom and check out some of my favorite posts! I'm loving:

Healthy Menu Options

Tricks to Keep Your Kids Hydrated

Why You Need To Be Part Of The Organic Revolution

FEATURED SPONSOR GIVEAWAYS FROM DAILY MOM

This post is for notification purposes only. To see a full list of prizes and current giveaways, please visit †our Giveaway page.

Giveaway/sweepstakes rules: No purchase or payment necessary. Sweepstakes prize is listed above. By entering this sweepstakes, the entrant acknowledges that they are eligible for this sweepstakes according to all laws set forth by their home state. Entrants who do not meet these criteria will be disqualified. Winner is liable for any taxes associated with the prize. The promotion period for this giveaway will close next week and a winner will be chosen via Rafflecopter. The winner will be contacted privately and CaseyLeigh may choose not to publish the winning entry on this site. Void where prohibited. Sweepstakes sponsored by DailyMom.

wear. the pencil skirt

2013-05-12T22:58:00.000-05:00

I am SO excited to be a part of this fun collaboration and "monthly challenge" to revamp our wardrobe basics! How to style your staples!

This month's challenge was the pencil skirt. Ahhhh, I haven't worn a pencil skirt in years! But I found it buried in my closet and did my best to put my style to it! I am so so excited to introduce you to some beautiful ladies today as well- they all did such a good job and I was honored to be included in this!

Casey necklace c/o: Pink Lemonade

Now look how amazing these gorgeous ladies did!!!

Meet Kat...

Meet Sara...

Meet Em...

Meet Jen...

Meet Erin...

Meet Hilary...

a pool day.

2013-05-10T22:57:00.000-05:00

^^ Last weekend we spent the day at the pool with my parents, my brother & his girlfriend ! A few peeks into our weekend! ^^

apple dress c/o: dream catcher baby

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +

I have two things in Dallas that I will be attending next week that are open to any of you!!!

One, Playdate in the park. Any of you mamas want to meet up for a picnic?

Two... The grand opening celebration of a friend's new blowout salon is on the 18th and they'd love for you to come out. The first 15 services booked get a swag bag full of products from GLO Minerals and Kevin Murphy, hair accessories and discounts. They will also have a raffle going for a free blowout with proceeds going to Girls, Inc. And they are giving away 5 makeovers on their blog over the next week. Winners will receive a free blowout and full face makeup application during the grand opening and will have before and after pictures taken!

HAPPY WEEKEND!!! XOXO

a two- ba left behind & thoughts on motherhood.

2013-05-09T20:42:00.000-05:00

Just You by Amy Stroup on Grooveshark

I have written often of Aiden's beloved two-ba. This sweet blankie (pillowcase) has gotten him through many nights, many tears and swirled in the wind through many playful moments. It took ship with him as he played pirates and was a cape as he played superheroes. It has been everywhere with us. and has been cherished so dearly.

It's so bittersweet to even type this out.
and I would be lying if I didn't admit to you that with the sweet song playing, I have been sobbing just writing out these feelings.
Over the past three months two-ba has slowly and surely been left behind. There are rare moments when he asks for it.
But they are rare now.
I find it crumpled in a corner long past bedtime and I have realized that his need for two-ba isn't as strong anymore. Part of me wants to scream no and cling to that tiny baby boy he once was. But the majority of me loves watching him grow and change and soar. Stretching his wings. His independence is slowly emerging and through something as sweet as a tiny blankie, two ba... I have begun to prepare my own heart.
Because someday...just as his beloved two.ba, he won't need me so much anymore.

Yes, he will always need me in ways. But they will change.

Open hands.

Us mamas...
we wake up early, we tend to every need.
We cradle them in the night and we whisper and hold them close when they are afraid of the dark shadows in the hours when the world is sleeping.
We walk through the halls of our homes checking each bed, kissing each forehead... only hearing the small squeaks from our toes as they run along the long, cold floors. I often run my fingers slowly through their hair as they are off in a dreamland of slumber.

Us mamas.
We kiss their ouchies and we rock them to sleep with a lullaby.
We teach them how to be and how to love.

We show them what to live for and fight for...
we start out as the tiny voice they hear in their little minds.

We love fiercely.
We fear fiercely.

We beg God for protection and gasp for air when we think about how vulnerable our hearts are now forever out in the world walking around in other tiny bodies.

Us mamas we take these tiny fragile innocent beings.... and we raise them, and love them and fight for them in every battle big and small.

Being a mama hurts. Loving something so passionately and so fiercely hurts.
But it is so beautifully rewarding & life giving.

Time. It gives and it takes.

Happy Mother's day.

an amazing recipe.

2013-05-09T06:27:00.000-05:00

Hi ya'll! My name is Meghan and I blog over at eat.live.make.

I am so excited to share this amazing recipe with you guys today, AND some exciting news about a new project we are launching! And am so thankful to sweet Casey for allowing me to pop over and say hello to you all!

This recipe is one of the most delicious roasted vegetable recipes I have ever put into my mouth. When I first tasted this dish I was absolutely speechless, and felt pretty cool for whipping up something so tasty in our kitchen with minimal fresh ingredients.

I know you will have the same feeling when you share this naturally gluten free AND vegan recipe with your friends and family.

Ingredients:

(serves 4)

2lb potatoes, halved if large

salt and pepper

olive oil for cooking

vegan pesto dressing

3/4 cup, chopped, drained sun dried tomatoes

2 garlic cloves, crushed

6 tbsp sunflower seeds

2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

roasted vegetables

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or Braggs liquid aminos)

2 tbsp honey or agave

2 red bell peppers, seeded and quartered

2 zucchini, sliced lengthwise

1 fennel bulb, cut into thin wedges

16 vine-ripened tomatoes

8 garlic cloves

2 fresh rosemary springs

Directions:

For the roasted vegetables, mix the oil, vinegar and honey together in a large, shallow dish.
Add the red bell pepper, zucchini, onions, fennel, tomatoes, garlic, and rosemary to the dish and toss in the marinade.
Let marinate for at lest 1 hour.

Preheat the oven to 400 F/200 C.
Cook the potatoes in a pan of lightly salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes, or until partially cooked.
Let cook and then coarsely grate with a cheese grater.

Transfer the vegetables, except the tomatoes and garlic, and the marinade to a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, then add the tomatoes and garlic and roast for an additional 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly blackened around the edges.

Meanwhile, prepare the pesto by combining all the ingredients into the food processor and processing until it forms a creamy paste. (You will have leftover pesto)

Cook the potato pancakes.
Take a quarter of the grated potato in your hands and form into a roughly shaped cake.
Heat just enough oil to cover the bottom of a skillet over medium heat.
put the cakes, 2 at a time, into the skillet and flatten with a spatula to form circles about 3/4 inch thick.

Cook the pancake for 6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crisp.
Mix 2 tbsp water in with 3 tbsp pesto dressing and whisk.

To serve, top each pancake with the roasted vegetables and drizzle with a little pesto dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

My sweet friend Lacy and I have teamed up to create an awesome resource for the gluten free community: Lacy and Meg GF.

We are two gluten free experts, who both have Celiac Disease, with a dream to connect you to the information you need to live a healthy and happy gluten free lifestyle.

Our vision is to create a community for those who suffer from Celiac Disease and Gluten Intolerances, while providing sound information with amazing recipes and reviews for our readers.

Together, we have written an e book, Living Gluten Free: The Basics with the novice Celiac in mind.

Our hope and passion is to help you navigate through your gluten free journey, giving you all the tools and tips we can along the way.

We would love it if you stopped by and joined our community!

little mommy.

2013-05-07T20:48:00.000-05:00

Butterfly Nets by Bishop Allen on Grooveshark

She softly rocks her, she cradles her and whispers in her ear.

She swaddles her.

Feeds her.

I have noticed a tiny mommy emerging. I see her treating her little babies the way that I treat her. With tenderness and love.

She gently pats her back after feedings and rocks her close before she puts her to sleep.

She loves her little dolly well.

This little one is mostly only interested in what big brother is doing and what he loves.

But there are moments that catch me by surprise when she breaks away from that.

Out on her own.

Being a little girl, a little mommy.

Dressed up in heels with a purse and swaddled baby in tow.

It will be so fun as Apple gets older to see if Ainsleigh shifts a bit. To playing more with her, dreaming with her and letting their imaginations run wild.

A sister. Someone who looks like you. You look into her eyes and not only see yourself but your mom and dad also. You’ve been side by side since birth. And now... now as Apple grows, you get to play house, take care of your dollys and you can show her how to be.

An example.

Melts my heart every time.

headband c/o: suzie studios

Tuesday Feature.

2013-05-07T00:02:00.000-05:00

^^ a few of my favorites on the site now!! ^^

^^ me in my Tailor & Stylist shirt ^^

"Founded by a real life tailor from Rodeo Drive (the husband) and a seasoned LA fashion stylist (the wife), Tailor and Stylist is a polished and ladylike boutique. While our collection has a high fashion flair, we work hard to make every piece affordable for all pocketbooks. Our clothes make women look and feel classy and fabulous, with flattering tailoring and impeccable style. We offer free shipping on every order, as well as free shipping on exchanges too!"

SHOP | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | PINTEREST | INSTAGRAM

Coupon code: Wiegands10 for 10% off!

what we wore.

2013-05-05T20:59:00.000-05:00

ainsleigh/apple dresses c/o: pocket full of lovelies //
apple headbands c/o: pocket full of lovelies //

casey shoes c/o: blowfish // casey shirt c/o: hellomerch //
casey rings/ bracelets c/o: Amy Waltz Designs

pssst- giveaway below!

win big!

2013-05-05T20:58:00.000-05:00

Chasing Davies // The Mrs. & the Momma // Sandy a la Mode // TfDiaries // Jessica... Who?

Casey Leigh // Chioma's Evolution of Style // Pop of Style // GBO Fashion // Pretty Polished Perfect

Camp Patton // The Other Side of Gray // Chic on the Cheap // The Serena Saga // Lemons, Avocados, and the Bay

much love, illy // Kacie's Kloset // Smart n Snazzy // Citrus Refreshing Fashion // Oh to Be a Muse

A Beautiful Ruckus // the daily dani // Crowley Party // Wild & Precious // the Freckled Fox

Coupons.com is kind enough to bring you this giveaway today for not just one lucky winner, but TEN! Five winners will receive a $50 Target e-gift card and the other 5 will receive a $50 Macy's e-gift card ($500 value)...just in time for Mother's Day! Make sure to check out Coupons.com for great Target and Macy's offers!

In the spirit of mother's day, make sure to leave your mom's best advice she ever gave you (about anything!) in the comments below!

You can enter this giveaway through Rafflecopter now through Sunday, May 12th on any of the participating blogs. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway/sweepstakes rules: No purchase or payment necessary. Sweepstakes prize is listed above. By entering this sweepstakes, the entrant acknowledges that they are eligible for this sweepstakes according to all laws set forth by their home state. Entrants who do not meet these criteria will be disqualified. Winner is liable for any taxes associated with the prize. The promotion period for this giveaway will close next week and a winner will be chosen via Rafflecopter. The winner will be contacted privately and CaseyLeigh may choose not to publish the winning entry on this site. If the winner fails to claim their prize within two weeks of notification, another winner will be selected from eligible entries. Void where prohibited. Sweepstakes sponsored by Coupns.com.

chewy granola bars.

2013-05-03T15:21:00.000-05:00

Hi readers! I'm Mary Beth. I'm a wife, mum, photographer, and blogger. If we were to meet in real life, you would find me in my skinny jeans and a plain tee, camera in hand. If you came over to my house, I would most likely be in the kitchen, cooking or baking something...for you.

I would tell you that my journey with food began in a big house in the woods when I began cooking for my large family as a teenager. 13 total siblings, to be exact. I wanted to learn it all...how to bake bread from scratch, roast a turkey for thanksgiving, and make cranberry bread in the winter. And it's there that I learned something: the kitchen is a love language all it's own. I learned that there is beauty in that space...in hidden places.

And I guess I fell in love with it.

The process of making and creating art with ingredients, and giving it back to the people you love.

I'm still cooking for the people I love...mostly my three kids and my husband. And although my life has gotten busier and fuller, I still revel in putting together healthy food for my family.

Today I'm sharing one of my favorite recipes I've found. As a busy mom on the go, I'm always looking for healthy options that'll satisfy my cravings for something sweet, but give me lasting energy to boot. My kids always have endless requests for something to snack on, and when I discovered these granola bars a few years ago?

Well, they fit the bill.

Perfectly.

Even my husband, who needs a little coaxing to enjoy healthy whole food, loves these.

To death.

You can totally make this recipe your own, mixing in your favorite combinations of seeds, nuts, and dried fruit.

Here's my favorite combination of mix-ins below...

//CHEWY GRANOLA BARS

1 cup natural peanut butter {or sunflower butter}

2/3 cup honey

1/2 cup coconut oil

2 cups oats

2 total cups combination of coconut flakes, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds

{or your own combination of nuts and dried fruit}

Chocolate, chopped and sprinkled on top

PROCESS:

:: In medium size sauce pan, melt together peanut butter, honey and coconut oil.

:: Remove from heat and add oats, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and coconut.

Stir well...

:: Press mixture into pan {I used a pan slightly smaller than a 9×13 and it was perfect.}, if you use a 9 x 13 you don’t have to fill it all the way, just spread to your desired thickness and sprinkle {while still warm} with chopped chocolate.

{I like to press the chips in a little and sometimes I sprinkle with coconut flakes too.}

:: Chill for 2 hours in fridge and cut into bars.

:: When we’re not devouring them, we keep ours in the fridge so they’ll stay “congealed”.

And you must know, these are divine with a glass of almond milk.

Take it from me.

Xoxoxo, Mary Beth

where is my place?

2013-05-02T23:32:00.000-05:00

card via red letter paper co

Give Us Clean Hands by Shane and Shane on Grooveshark

I have had thoughts swirling around for a bit on this subject, but slow to let them pour out. Unsure how to express all my thoughts properly.
Honestly, this might wind up a big jumbled mess.
Blogging, social media...it all leaves us in a tricky place. So much room for assumptions, for comparison, for judgement/....so much room to feel left out. I sway on it.

I think each situation has to be taken person by person.... situation by situation and moment by moment. I would say most of it has to do with our own hearts. Remembering that when we read someone's blog or look at their instagram feed, it's such a small snippet of their reality.

I would say most people put out their best.
They want to inspire, encourage.
They want to create in order to give back and give glory to the One who made us.
The One who gave us our creativity and our gifts.

I think that is beautiful.

In fact...
I would say that if someone is encouraging you to stop using your gifts
to tone it down a bit
to show way more of the dirty and less of the talents
that I don't agree.

Can you imagine if someone told Tim Tebow to stop using his gifts so well?
God created you with gifts and talents and ways to bless and inspire others.
You were created to do so.

I love taking an ordinary moment and seeing such a deeper beauty in it.

Life is truly a mix of hurt & beauty.
a mix of raw and incredible.
ups and down.

Through it all we move. and through it all, I do believe He is sovereign.

I enjoy very much following inspiring, uplifting ladies.

I would say it's a beautiful thing to be careful with what we say about our children and families for all to read. and careful how we respond to our harder days.

But with that. also sharing our hurts and our days that leave us on our knees.

The balance. Always finding the balance.

Then there is feeling left out.
It sounds simple and cliche and like I should have known it all along but I can only be me.

Offer me. The true me.

I can say here I am...this is the true me, what I have to offer you.

I left a situation recently and walked away feeling really left out.
If I am being honest the whole thing put a really sad taste in my mouth.
but you know what...

I think when we reach a place when we are okay there. "There" meaning the value on those people & how the view us back has been taken away. No expectations.
Then the sting is gone.

It's my heart that needs to be examined. not the other way around.
I needed to remove the amount of weight that I was projecting onto them.

So when we do this.... it is then....

then that relationships can form as they please without the hurt tied to it.

The enjoyment and celebration of others.

The bitterness gone about a relationship not reciprocated.

Then we have open hands.

Reaching a place where as we move through life then the hits bounce more than blow.

it is then.... we can enjoy a bit more. and be inspired.

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou

PS.... an incredible post by my amazing mentor Leslie here!

my heart. hope spoken.

2013-05-02T00:39:00.003-05:00

Today I'm excited to share a little bit more about Hope Spoken with you guys. If this is your first time hearing about Hope Spoken: It is a women's conference that Emily, Danielle and myself are hosting in March of 2014.

And we want you to be there.

To say that I am excited about this conference would be a huge, huge understatement. This is such a fun dream becoming a reality. I love seeing women use their time and talents for Him. I love worship and prayer, building each other up, equipping ourselves and others with knowledge of the Gospel - to know Him and make Him known. All of these things are what Hope Spoken is about.

and hearing a lot of really amazing stories.
and your story.
because we all have one.

You can read more about it right here, check out our amazing speaker line up right here, and buy your tickets right here!

Throughout the weekend we will have four different small group times. Every woman who is attending will be assigned to a small group leader and spend those times together with them and their group. It makes my heart want to burst sharing all these small group leaders with you. It gets me excited thinking about all of their stories intertwining with yours and moments you will spend together in prayer, in The Word, and encouraging each other. It also makes me really happy knowing that if someone took a leap and came alone that they will instantly be able to connect with their group and know friends immediately.

Hannah, Leslie and I are working on writing a Hope Spoken study that each of these lovely ladies will walk you through that weekend. Without further ado, meet our girls:

Ashley Ann Campbell | Jamie Ivey | Shannan Martin | Carina Schoen | Sarah Lowe

Jami Nato | Stephanie Holden | Hannah Singer | Kaylee Stevie

Ashley Howry | Emily Anderson | Lesley Zellers | Jess McClenahan | Leslie Padgett

Jami Meredith | Aly Allen | Wynne Elder | Mandy Castro | Laura Caddell

Today we also have a super sweet promotion for the next 20 tickets sold:

The next twenty women to purchase their tickets will receive:

(1) Twinkle Twinkle headband from Just Lovely Things ,
(1) 8x10 Don't Worry There's Always Tomorrow print from The Little Illustrator,
(1) set of 1 Beach Waves, 1 Hair Detangler, and 1 Lemon Face & Body Scrub from The Gnarly Whale,
and (1) neon pink knotted jersey knit headband from The Pink Ruffle.

Purchase your tickets here!

If you have any questions about Hope Spoken check out our FAQ page or email us at info@hopespoken.org

Happy Thursday!

AND....... To top it all off! We want your help spreading the word and following along with what we are doing! So we are offering a small incentive!
A $50 paypal credit!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway/sweepstakes rules: No purchase or payment necessary. Sweepstakes prize is listed above. By entering this sweepstakes, the entrant acknowledges that they are eligible for this sweepstakes according to all laws set forth by their home state. Entrants who do not meet these criteria will be disqualified. Winner is liable for any taxes associated with the prize. The promotion period for this giveaway will close next week and a winner will be chosen via Rafflecopter. The winner will be contacted privately and CaseyLeigh may choose not to publish the winning entry on this site. If the winner fails to claim their prize within two weeks of notification, another winner will be selected from eligible entries. Void where prohibited. Sweepstakes sponsored by Hope Spoken.

a different kind of person.

2013-04-30T20:58:00.000-05:00

A Good Day (Morning Song) by Priscilla Ahn on Grooveshark

One night I was up late, talking to Chris.

"When I think about some things in our life... I wish I was different...."

He pressed me, asked me what I meant, had me make a list.

I woke up the next morning and thought. enough.
I am tired of thinking about those things.
I am just going to be intentional and do them.

and I did.

I wanted to have the tv off. even if it was just on for noise. I wanted pretty music on instead.
I wanted family dinners every single night. around the table. meal planned. prayers said. conversations had.
I wanted a bedtime routine.
I wanted to pull Ainsleigh's naps so that she went to bed at a reasonable hour. and with that a whole evening with Chris.
I wanted to do an hour of school in the mornings with the kids.
and I wanted to start running.
I wanted to be more intentional with my relationship with Chris.
and I wanted to change some icky parts of my soul that I convinced myself didn't exist.

I didn't do all at once. But slowly now I have done every one on that list. Some are still a work in progress. A few are very much still a work in progress.

The running was just this past week.
I am a terrible runner. I can walk a few blocks then just want to walk normally. But this week I have loved it. I listened to my feet hit the pavement, took pictures of flowers along the way, had music playing, let the sunshine hit my nose. I closed my eyes and forgot about every stress in the world for those 30 minutes. It was glorious.

The reason that I wanted to share this is because I have this feeling that so many of us buy into the lies. I would end some of my days feeling like a failure. All the " I wish...." .
Then the lie brings sadness and something about the sadness keeps us there.
In the lies.
So I guess this is a challenge, an encouragement- whether your "list" is small and silly things like mine or a heavy list....maybe even an addiction or a secret you've been a slave to for far too long.
Wake up tomorrow and say enough. Today I start the journey to change.

I stood at the sink tonight washing the dishes. I had priscilla ahn humming next to me. We had just had a lovely family meal and I was slowly letting the bubbles slide down the plates. The kids were content and peaceful and I couldn't help but give thanks.

Do you have something weighing you down?
shall we say enough?

$10,000 Destination Nursery #dreamnurserymakeover .

2013-04-30T16:56:00.001-05:00

I am so so thrilled to be able to partner with some amazing brands and blogs who share in my desire of helping others! I am over the moon excited that I have been able to be a part of this amazing collaboration for the very first Destination Nursery #dreamnurserymakeover.

Perfect timing for 1 lucky mama this mother's day! Click here to see all items included in this Dream Nursery Prize Package worth over $10,000!

Check out the behind the scenes video produced by the talented Jenner Brown from Luminuex films...

Here are all of the details on how you can win your very own Destination Nursery #dreamnurserymakeover

To ENTER: 1. First check out the behind the scenes video above to see exactly what can go into creating your dream nursery space! 2. You can complete all items listed below in Rafflecopter ...all entries will be verified so please be honest in completing all of the items. There are a couple items you can share and do daily to increase your point score and chance for winning! Once you are complete now be sure to visit these other fantastic bloggers while dreaming about how much you are going to love your new dream nursery make over! Casey Leigh, Pirates and Peonies, Lunchpails and Lipstick, Sweet little peanut, Min_e style, and Coconut Robot. 3. On May 10th we will randomly pick 5 people...these 5 people will then be asked to submit a quick 30 second video clip. Then for 3-5 days, the public will have the chance to vote on their favorite video, you will have the chance to help us pick the final winner! Best of luck! 4. The only restriction to enter...you must be a Mom 21 years of age or older either 6+ months pregnant or with a new baby up to 18 months old. **This is a nursery make over with design help...you will be expected to paint,prep, and assemble the space with items received in the prize package within a specified period of time... We will require before and after video footage from which we will create a mini video to share with destination nursery readers. ***All items listed will be donated to 1 lucky winner

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway/sweepstakes rules: No purchase or payment necessary. Sweepstakes prize is listed above. By entering this sweepstakes, the entrant acknowledges that they are eligible for this sweepstakes according to all laws set forth by their home state. Entrants who do not meet these criteria will be disqualified. Winner is liable for any taxes associated with the prize. The promotion period for this giveaway will close next week and a winner will be chosen via Rafflecopter. The winner will be contacted privately and CaseyLeigh may choose not to publish the winning entry on this site. If the winner fails to claim their prize within two weeks of notification, another winner will be selected from eligible entries. Void where prohibited. Sweepstakes sponsored by companies listed above.

Tuesday Feature.

2013-04-29T22:17:00.002-05:00

"Dashing Bee was founded by Alison Sopher, a young mother who realized first-hand the value of consignment shopping for growing families. After participating in consignment sales as a consignor and conducting her own live sales, Alison recognized that providing a venue for buying and selling high-end baby and children's clothing can greatly benefit young, growing families. Taking time to shop for growing young children just doesn't fit with the busy and hectic schedules that young mothers face, in addition to the expense of buying clothes that kids outgrow in a short time. Not only can you buy, but Dashing Bee also offers families the convenience and opportunity to consign and sell new, like-new or gently used children's clothing. Consigning is extremely easy and consignors earn 50% of the selling price of each item."

"Big names don't have to cost a small fortune".

Website | Facebook | Newsletter

Discount code: Casey10 for 10% off your order

appie. 8 months

2013-04-28T19:37:00.000-05:00

My little Appie. 8 months already.

I wish I could explain this precious babe...but I fear that words won't do her justice. Last night I had her curled up next to me. Her sweet chubby arms pressed up by my neck and her sweet cheeks softly next to me. I was tracing her eyelashes and telling her I can't believe that she belly laughs the way that she does. I hope that she always knows how cherished she is.

I can't imagine our life without her.

I am a different mom this third time. Somewhere along the way the moments that we squirm a bit when someone asks about a parenting decision fade away. We rest easier in our decisions. More confident the third time. I rarely worry about her. It's just different after you have done it twice before.

I have no idea how you can thank God for the loss of one child, so you can experience another. But today I will do that. If we hadn't lost Addison, I would never have had Apple. I am thankful that someday I will know them both...but thankful that God blessed us with Apple for this life here on earth.
Addison's loss changed me.
and it helped a lot of people.
I have reconciled his loss........ and to me, his life had a unique purpose.
Maybe one I won't fully understand until heaven.

I needed Apple. I needed each of them.
I have longed so deeply to be a mama for almost as long as I can remember.

When we chose the name Apple, we knew what it meant to us. It is an old English use of the word "apple" and does not refer to the fruit we call the "apple" today. It refers to the center of the pupil of the eye. When you make something the "apple of your eye", it means to watch over it and protect and cherish it.

When we chose Lucy as her middle name it was just simply because Chris loves the name Lucy. It was a family name and he loved it.
Later we found out that Lucy means radiant light.

Pure radiant light... that she could be a shining light.

She is already such a light.

My prayer for each of our children is that they love well. That they are lights and that people can see a difference in them because of how they choose to live their lives and treat others.
A light by how they love.

We love you little Apple, you are such a gift.

random.

2013-04-27T08:21:00.000-05:00

I had a few random things to share....so I will stick them all on in one quick post for you! (none of these are sponsored posts....just things I felt on my heart to share)!

First up... 31 bits... a company I love so very much. They have put together a gift option for Mothers Day where each item can include a free gift bag, paper heart seeds and a customized note. SUCH a good cause and sweet way to celebrate the mamas! 31 Bits is part of a movement revolutionizing the way people do business, businesses that are conscious of both the creator, and the consumer. Not only was your necklace paid for fairly, but the creator has been provided with education, employment, and empowerment. The jewelry is beautiful and 80% of the profit goes towards their program in Uganda which creates a sustainable income and empowerment to their 108 women.

Next up... I wanted to share this because I think it could be something really neat for business owners/ handmade business owners. Celeb gifting. Casi over at Cupcake Mag told me that I should send some of my leftover prints to her for some celeb gifting. (These got sent out yesterday)! She has all the info here about it...I just think it's a different and neat way to advertise your product!

Lastly, Voto app just came up with a way to embed the votes to your blog (included an example one).... you can vote right here! So if you have a product you want feedback on... this might be a cool different way to survey people!

These is my random mish.mosh for the weekend!
Have a beautiful one!
xoxo

love in numbers.

2013-04-25T23:50:00.000-05:00

Danielle from over at Sometimes Sweet did the cutest post in numbers and I thought I'd play along!

SIX + : The number of pets we have now. Two dogs, 3 lizards, hermit crabs & earth worms. Aiden loves animals so much and adores all kinds of "creatures".... yesterday he said to me " mom why is this roly poly squirting out cheese?"... obviously, that caught my attention. Needless to say a roly poly was having babies! Chris grabbed his camera real quick and Aiden got to see 100 little teeny tiny white roly poly babies be born. crazy!

ONE: One month until Chris' big movie adventure begins!

TEN: The amount of times that I painted with the kiddos this week. Seeing their creativity soar is so life-giving for me.

TWELVE: The number of swimsuits worn this week. We are just living outside with the sprinklers, water table and teeny backyard pool.

TWENTY ONE: The amount of times I woke up in the night this week with the babies.

TWO: The number of nights that I stayed up and watched movies with Chris- popcorn in hand!

THOUSAND + : The number of giggles, hugs and snuggles this week.

TWO: the number of teeth that Appie got this week!

COUNTLESS: The number of prayers and the gratitude that I have for this life and these people. Last night before bed Aiden said to me..."Mom, this is the greatest house in all the world." I said... "Is it the greatest because of the house or because of the people in the house?" His reply: " Oh mom, you're silly. It's the people! "

life is beautiful.

2013-04-24T21:40:00.000-05:00

some of these pics are taken from my instagram. :)

a day out.

2013-04-23T19:57:00.002-05:00

bracelets c/o: the pink ruffle

We celebrated Chris' dad's birthday this past weekend and snagged a few pics on our day out!

It's been rainy here today. We had candles going, twinkle lights flickering, worship music playing and lots of blocks, puzzles & paint going non-stop over here today. When I taught art for 4 years I was always a big believer of setting the tone with little ones. Teaching 30 kids in an art room to prek-5th grade with spills and excitement can be a bit chaotic to say the least ;). So I always spoke softly, I had twinkle lights and lamps instead of the harsh overhead lights, soft music and a set routine. It worked like clockwork! A few simple things set such a nice, peaceful tone for our environment. And I have tried to do this as a mama as well! Especially on rainy days when we are inside all day.

I just sat down to look through some of these pictures and was so overcome with how big Aiden and Ains seem lately! They are growing so much. And the way they play together and love each other and interact is so beautiful. There was a moment that I was sitting on the floor today and we were all in deep conversation and I couldn't help but think how much I wished that I could just capture their personalities now and save them for me to watch and see and delight in as they grow and change.

I want to remember now.

I want to remember the softness of Ainsleigh's voice and the way she swaddles her little baby dolls. I want to bottle up Aiden & I's convos of lizards and dinosaurs. I want to save the questions like, "why do you think God made water slides?" and their little prayers at bedtime. I want every bit of it stuffed away.... so that as it begins to fade, I still hold the key.

A piece of the "then" with me forever.

Tuesday love.

2013-04-22T22:38:00.002-05:00

"Hi! I’m Lyndsay Almeida, a photographer based in sunny Florida. And I write a lifestyle blog that is full of photoshoots, crafty projects, outfit posts, photography tips, and rambles about my family and faith. I started Pink Coffee Photo five years ago; and as you can see, bright colors (and coffee) make me a happy girl! If we're going to be blog friends here are a few more things you should know: I love Jesus Christ and strive to live a life that honors Him. My husband, Anderson, and I have the cutest little boy (Kingston Rock) in the world. It's true. There was a scientific study, and he won. I adore our little family!

Here are a few completely random facts about me:

1.) I'm obsessive about milk going bad. It's weird! I'm so scared of taking a gulp of the rancid stuff that I pour it into a spoon and smell it just to be sure it's safe... pretty much every time I get it out of the fridge!

2.) Hot sauce is my secret love. It makes everything taste better (except dessert). Trust me. I've tried!

3.) Hawaii is my favorite place in the world. Just thinking about it makes my heart flutter a little. And I don't usually say things like "makes my heart flutter." I love the islands so much that I buy anything with the word Hawaiian in the title: Hawaiian breeze laundry detergent and hand soap, Hawaiian coffee, Hawaiian rolls, Hawaiian punch, Hawaiian Tropics sunscreen. It's probably not healthy... or practical.

4.) I'd rather shop at a thrift store than a high-end boutique. There's just something about hunting for that perfect item. Even when you don't know what the item is. And you totally get used to the smell. Promise!

5.) I'm a spelling champ. But when I was in 5th grade I purposely spelled "deodorant" wrong, so I wouldn't win the big Spelling Bee and look like a nerd. If you’d like to become blog friends come on over to Pink Coffee Photo.

And if you’re really ready to commit(!) you can find me in theses other spots too:
Blog | Instagram | Bloglovin' | Facebook | Pinterest

Lyndsay is offering 40% off any photo session booked by May 31st.
Come on down to Florida. The weather is perfect!

wear.

2013-04-21T22:51:00.000-05:00

Babble's Must.Read Mom Blogs with Style / read here!