just dreamin'

So whenever I think of something i want to "add" to my wish list I realized I don't have a wish list to "add" it to. So I'm making one.

Last year I made a wish list for my husband to help him with Christmas. He totally followed it and everything was perfect. It makes life so much harder if you don't give them a list and (sorry honey) you usually end up getting something that you wish was something else. So make a list for them girls! The surprise factor definitely isn't there because the ole man didn't think of this stuff on his own but hey! Who needs a surprise any more. All we want is something we ... well ... want ;)!

First off, of course, most of you know I've been looking for a camera - I don't necessarily want this one - my husband has been doing the investigating and I gave him a list of cameras my girlly friends have suggested so I just told him bring me one home one of these days - (before Mr. #2 is born) ;) He is really good at buying the right thing for me (that is what he did with our last car and I love it!) So I can't wait to see what he'll bring me!

Canon PowerShot

Next, another thing I've totally been wanting for months is an apron, okay okay not just any store bought apron - I want a cute apron!!! I've found of gals who make aprons - They have blogs I love and they both have Etsy businesses -

This one from the NotQuiteJuneClever blog - Tres Chic Apron at Etsy. Isn't it fabulous how this one crosses in the back for a better fit. She's so handy!

Then there is these one from Brin at Etsy - She is out of aprons right now but she has handmade dishrags (just like Grandma Great made) and she will have aprons again before the holidays I believe. She is also very talented and her blog ... well you'll see how wonderful she is!

This is something I have and I'm running out of both - my lovely Cool Citrus Basil Lotion

and Victoria's Secret Love Spell lotion Some of you know that I have never seen the ocean... well not yet, anyhow. BUT Coastal Casual Romantic Cottage decor is with out a doubt my favorite. I'm telling you I was born on the wrong side of the United States - I really want some sea shells and especially pencil starfish to add to my decor in my home - Next, is something I've been keeping my eye on that is in our local Craig's List and that is an Antique Scale - it is listed for only $25! Isn't it dreamy!!

Well that is enough for now, at least now I'll know where to point my husband when Christmas time / delivery of his second son comes around *wink*wink*

And this can give you some ideas for your fabulous wish list.

Toodles, The Lady

Go sign up!

In celebration of her favorite season, Talia, is putting on a fabulous giveaway. Talia is a stay-at-home mom and her blog is about her battling every day trials to the best wife, mother, teacher, sister and christian gal she can be - calling her sweet blog 'this little life of mine'. She is super handy turning thrift store finds into perfect trendy treasures as well as juggling her family, household AND being a home school teacher.

Her blog is super inspirational and the pics of her girls are just breath taking. They are so cute and her stories about them are fabulous! Stop over there by clicking here and go and enter yourself in her fabulous Celebration of Fall giveaway & watch out! cuz, like I did, you'll become a big fan of this sparkly gem!

Introducing Mrs. Brown your Scentsy Escential Consultant

This is Mrs. Brown
Also, to some of you who already know, my middle sister - Jodi Dawn. Isn't she gorgeous? She's totally fun, quirky, hard working, an amazing wife, mother, sister, strong christian woman, and I don't know what I would do without her!

I wanted to let you know her project - she is now working with Scentsy! So, if you are looking for some awesome Christmas presents or some 'just because they smell fabulous' type gifts - you can visit her website here.

If you need help picking something out shoot her an email (you'll find her e-mail address on the website) and she get you all lined out! You'll love what Scentsy has to offer to make your home smell DEEEELISH! and Mrs. Brown is a treasure! A good old treasure! (Pssst.... she just turned 26 so I had to throw that in there - ya know! It's a sister thing. tee hee!)

Toodles, The Lady

The Big 5!!

Yesterday was our 5th Wedding Anniversary! We had a great evening as Granny and Grandad offered to take Pauly and we took advantage by going out to dinner and renting a movie. We went out to Red Lobster with a gift certificate we received from Grandma Sally and Papa Paul so that was fabulous! From there we went to Best Buy to scope out a new camera which we decided not to get quite yet - Ben just wants to do a little move investigating on what would be the right camera for our family. & then we went and rented the... Ghost of Girlfriend's Past with Jennifer Garner and Matthew Macconauhey - it was really cute and for being a total chick flick my husband couldn't stop laughing! I was pleased with my choice as it was my turn to pick :)

It is pretty weird how 5 years has gone by - I remember our wedding day and that week as if it was yesterday, definitely my wedding day and the day Pauly was born stand out in my mind as the most precious days of my life and soon I'll have another day to add to that precious collection - when our little family of 3 turns into a family of 4... time sure flies by and little Mr. Melton #3 is going to be here very soon.

I have about a month left and we finally have figured out the name - I SO enjoy keeping it from my family... most of them try their best to get me to slip for instance this evening I called Grandma Sally to thank her for the gift card and she totally tried to pull a fast one on my by saying, "Oh! I have Dos' Christmas stocking made, now should I go ahead and put the name on it...?"! Isn't she a stinker! I totally didn't fall for it but I sure got a chuckle out of it - they all try something, it's hilarious!

A little tid bit...

The weather in my neck of the woods: Nice crisp mornings followed by warm and then over warmed afternoons (90s or so)

One of my simple pleasures: Sending my husband to the McDonald's across the street for a $1 hot fudge sundae... *drool*

On my bedside table: Bible, the boys' baby books, sketch pad, and notebook.

On my TV: Gilmore Girls Season 1

On the menu for tonight: Hamburger Hash (my husband's favorite) Made by frying up a bunch of potatoes w/ garlic and onions if so choose and then I have 1/2 lb hamburger left over from last night which I just add in. after the potatoes are nice and crispy delicious - I think a green salad sounds nice to go along with it.

On my To Do List: I've been neglecting my laundry - so I think I'll go down there instead of taking a nap today, I need to make curtains for the boys' room, put together baby car seat, bouncy chair and bassinet (I washed all the covers), make a peach cobbler with some peaches a wife of a man my husband works sent home to us (She sent us a loaf of bread too - she spoiled us!), Send Thank you to said wife.

New Recipe I tried last week: Sloppy Shepherd's Pie - I made Sloppy Joe mix with a lot of added veggies and a 1/2 lb ground beef and put that into a 9 x 13 greased pan, Then I made a big batch of mashed potatoes with sour cream and shredded cheddar in it - spooned that over the Sloppy Joe mix and put it in the oven to let it all meld together.... we had leftovers too (Oh, stretching a 1 lb of hamburger - maybe I should write a book)!!

In the craft basket: Use old corn husks to make a wreath (seen it in a Martha Stewart Magazine before) We'll see :)

Looking forward to: Our church is putting on a baby shower for us in a couple weeks. I'm excited!

Homemaking Tip for this week: I wash up 2 or 3 loads of laundry in a day and then when the boy goes to sleep I like to fold while I watch Gilmore Girls (if the husband is working late) and that way I get my alone time and I am productive at the same time. Then I sort it and put it back into the baskets for each room, then the morning after breakfast we put it away. Works great!

Favorite Blog Post of the week: Click here. Misty is a good friend of mine, who - has an amazing blog. This blog post was the celebration of their 6th year with their little miss they adopted. It is precious.

Favorite memory snap shot in my mind: The other night I was watching a Sunshine Cleaning and Amy Adams was putting her sweet little boy to sleep and it just reminded me of my little guy... so of course, as I'm sure most of you have done, I snuck into my little man's room - where he was sleeping so soundly and I just stared at him for a few minutes and it popped into my head that he is growing so fast and that the little man I have in my belly will be here before I know it and when he comes it will, of course, change the whole dynamic of our little family of 3 - but it is a good change. I just stood there silently weeping over the sweet blessings in my life.

Lesson learned the past few days: To savor the little things.

On my Prayer List: My husband as I stated in my last post he is working a ton - filling in for the man who got layed off and is now feeling like he might get sick, I'm constantly in prayer for my boys and their health, delivery of #2, my mom and dad, a friend at church who recently lost her mother, our finances.

Boooo Hoooo! Is it over yet?

Well I'm now 32 weeks and Wow! the count down is ON!! I've been putterin' around the house trying to get all those last minute things done with clothes, blankets and such and trying to continue to breathe. I'm so HUGE! I'll spare you the terrible pregnant pictures, for one thing - I'm just a big girl and number two I just don't wanna yet! Maybe later :)

My Little Guy has been very busy playing with all his fun gifts he got for his #2 birthday... Playing with cars, his trike and watching Cars over and over and over. Occasionally he walks up to me bad kisses or pats my belly and says ... "Baby..." and smiles. It is super sweet.

He has many many new tricks up his sleeve lately including filling his mouth full of water from his sippy cup and spitting it out on to anything and everything around him. Of course he looks my way to see if I'm looking first and then he spits. I've caught him quite a few times spitting into a little toy bucket he has and then the floor, the rug, and onto his highchair tray when he is bored with eating.

He also has a new trick where I'll say something like, it's time for nap and he'll say, "No, I'm not!" Although this is completely snotty of him, I just get a kick out of him.

Another thing he has been doing is helping himself to feeding Daphnie whenever he wants and I have invited him to take this on as his thing he is helping mama and daddy with, and of course he adores Daphnie and loves taking care of her. He also helps me put her outside to go potty in the morning or whenever I need him to. He is an awesome helper! When she is going potty he'll stand on the step and say "Aphie! Aphie! Aphie!" till she comes back in the house.

The other night he really wanted Daphnie to go with him to go into his room with him because we had told him to go in his room to play for a while. And she was not much into that idea of his :) So my husband grabbed some of her treats and would give the boy one and tell him to go in his room and then give her the treat and maybe she would catch on that he has goodies and she can have some if she'll follow him in there. Well that worked only a couple times and then Daphnie caught on that the treats were really being stored with Daddy and she was not to be tricked. Then my husband realized that before the boy was giving them to Daphnie (while in his room) he was licking them. I was just dieing of laughter and got high-centered (in a sense) on the couch - I couldn't move!

This weekend my husband is making salsa - I'm telling you he has been such a saint. Well... he is always pretty wonderful but he has truly been being completely aware of my needs as far as letting me sleep in, making me breakfast on the weekends, taking the boy for a couple hours some evenings when he doesn't have to work late. He has totally fulfilled his husband duties as far as taking care of his preggers wife while she is very much plump with child!

Today, I woke up and couldn't hardly move - just my back ached, my hips, my knees and it feels like this kid is DONE! but not quite - ya know! and man, my husband has been on the run for me all day - getting me ice packs for my back, taking care of the boy, making sure I'm fed and watered. He is just awesome! & I'm so blessed! Especially for the fact that he has been working super late hours for the past two weeks as a man got laid off from his office, so he has been doing his work as well as this other guy's work - then coming home to tend well.... me and the boy. My man rocks!

Grab a kleenex or 10...

My mom has an adorable little blog I want to introduce you to - it is called Idaho Round Pen click here to visit. Last night I was "blogging around" and I noticed she had a new post that I personally already knew was coming but I just didn't know when. I have been so looking forward to this post (or any post of hers honestly - when she writes she has a way of making me laugh and cry - most times at the same time) for a while and there it was... "Foxy". Now if you recall about a week ago I did a farewell post on Foxy (our old rope horse that passed away last week).

I really encourage you to jump over there and read this post it is amazing!!! She is amazing! and he was amazing!

Enjoy! and like I said grab a kleenex... or 10.

Don't let me Fall by Lenka

Yes, this blog has a new look and new music. I came across a gal who had some totally flirty, fresh, fun music on her play list so I did what any girl would do and logged right into my playlist.com and stole it! :) Anyhow, I had never heard this song 'Don't let me Fall' by Lenka but it is so charming and fun! So easy to learn the words and I thought what a fun thing to sing to your kids.

I'm always singing the regular - You are my sunshine and Jesus loves me - which there is nothing wrong with those at all but something new sometimes is fun! Below are the words and the song is the first one on my play list which can be found at the very end of this page (at the very bottom) I love it so much!!

Don't let me Fall

by Lenka

Underneath the moon,
Underneath the stars
Here's a little heart for you
Up above the world,
Up above it all
Here's a hand to hold on to

But if I should break,
If I should fall away
What am I to do?
I need someone to take,
A little of the weight
Or I'll fall through

You're just the one
That I've been waiting for
I'll give you
All that I have
To give and more
But don't let me fall

Take a little time,
Walk a little line
Get the balance right
Give a little love,
Gimme just enough
So that I can hang on tight

We will be alright,
I'll be by your side
I wont let you down
But I gotta know,
No matter how things go
That you will be alright

You're just the one
That I've been waiting for
I'll give you all
That I have

To give and more
But don't let me fall

Underneath the moon,
Underneath the stars
Here's a little heart for you
Up above the world,
Up above it all
Here's a hand to hold on to
Your just the one
That I've been waiting for
I'll give you

All that I have

To give and more
But don't let me fall

You'll be the one
That I'll love forever more
I'll be here holding you
High above it all
But don't let me fall

So fun huh! What songs do you sing to your kids?

Kids! Kick the tires!

My sister (middle sister, I'm the oldest) is a genius! And of course this isn't the first time I realized this - but honestly listen to this! Making her way out to the car with two kids and groceries and trying to get keys out, etc. she yells... "Kids! Kick the tires!" She's got these kids trained to automatically go the the pickup's tires and they kick one... as if they are checking the tires, like they've seen their parents do a million times. While they are kicking the tires, she fishes through her purse to find her keys and put down or set aside whatever is needed to get the kids back rounded up from "kicking the tires" and put safely into their car seats. GENIUS! huh!

So, watching her and remembering what tricks my mom had for us - I've got a trick or two of my own. One of them is at my house, once I've pulled into the drive way and have my hands full of purses, groceries, diaper bag and such... I get little man out of his car seat and hand him the keys to the house. I say, "Go to the door and open it for mommy, here's the keys - now go to the door" - He takes the keys from me and runs to the backdoor and fishes through the keys trying to open the door for me as I gather bags and such and I follow right behind him getting us both safely to the door. (Our house is right by a pretty busy road so it could be pretty dangerous!) He's such a big boy and this trick has worked wonders! I haven't got him to kick the tires yet, because he usually is just sitting in the shopping cart and I just set him right into the car seat but, with the new baby coming who knows how that will go - so the kicking of the tires training is in process...

The other night, we were out on the back carport and right off the carport again, is that busy road. I was sitting on the ground working on putting back together my stroller (I took off the cover and washed it... suggestion: don't do this just buy a whole new one :) and I was dealing with like 25 screws and sitting on the ground a pregnant lady isn't going to get up and move quickly for nothing to chase a toddler that is running toward a busy road. So, I had him sit buy me in his little lawn chair, gave him a piece of paper towel to clean his dump truck with and put him in charge of holding my screwdriver aka "tool" - so I would work on getting a screw through the material and in the hole and then ask him to hand me the "tool" and he sat there and worked on cleaning his dump truck and handed me the "tool" for an hour! It rocked! I swear! Since he turned two, and I'm sure I'm just a dork about this, but I swear he has matured and is such a big kid all the sudden!What tricks do you have/or did you have up your sleeves to keep your kids busy and safe?

Have you seen them? Go vote!!!!

NBC's America's Got Talent - Fab 5!!! This is your last chance to go vote. Sept. 14 between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. MST - GO VOTE at 1- 866-602-4805!!!!

These 5 sisters, with 17 children between them, have been clogging since they were just tiny little girls living on their parents' dairy farm in Morgan, UT. Their dad would make them help with daily chores of hauling hay and driving tractors. They have had a lifetime of trophies, fabulous families but also mixed in the blessings there have been hardships (as we all have), one of their children suffers from cerebral palsy and another from kidney disease. Also their father this past year lost his battle with unfortunate economic crash and lost his dairy farm this past year. This has not kept this family down and they have show even more strength. These women are dedicated, loving, like able, not to mention drop-dead gorgeous God fearing women and they clogging is jaw-dropping, precise and insanely toe-tapping addictive!!!

They've obviously been the group that has put the most hours (a lifetime) of practice to be so precisely in sync with each other. The Fab 5 is made up of Veva Ahlstrom (age 24), Cambria Gibson (age 28), Ayrion Myers (age 31), Shaundalee Morgan (age 33) and LaChere Vawdrey (age 35).

They tribute their success mostly to their husbands who have been tending all the kids since they've been working their tails off to win the America's Got Talent contest! Please vote - NOW!!! You can vote 10 times!!!

Catchin' up!

So I totally was thinking I wanted to post something on 9-11 in memory of well... everything that happened. BUT honestly, I totally let the day slip away from me. Not that I didn't think about what happened that day - I totally did, I definately had several memory walks in my mind of exactly what happened that day. Just the thought of breaks my heart into a million pieces. It truly is the most devistating thing that I've ever lived through and will remember it and honor those people in any way I can.

The morning of 9-11 I woke up as usual got ready for a day of work. I was currently working as a collector for Sears. My job was to work off of a dialer that made calls to anyone who was deliquent on the Sears card. My shift was 8 to 4:30 that day. I got in my little escort and I did listen to the radio a little but for the most part didn't hear much of what was going on and it all didin't really click until I was at work and making phone calls to ... yes, you've got it back East and people were saying, "How dare you call me right now!!!" We finally got all the details and started making phone calls to only Central, Moutain and W. Coast areas. Then we went on a huge break after the second tower fell. I honestly was freaking out... I think I was 20 and I was thinking they were going to come here and the whole U.S. was being invaded... I was on the phone a lot with my mom bawling and we were praying. They did let us go that day and we had to go back to work the next day. We had the day off so I decided to go to Les Schwab

Kids! Kick the tires!

My sister (Jodi) is a genius! And of course this isn't the first time I realized this - but honestly listen to this! Making her way out to the car with two kids and groceries and trying to get keys out, etc. Jodi yells... "Kids! Kick the tires!" She's got these kids trained to automatically go the the pickup's tires and they kick one... as if they are checking the tires, like they've seen Jodi and Brian (her husband) do a million times. While they are kicking the tires, she fishes through her purse to find her keys and put down or set aside whatever is needed to get the kids back rounded up from "kicking the tires" and put safely into their car seats. GENIUS! huh!

So, watching her and remembering what tricks my mom had for us - I've got a trick or two of my own. One of them is at my house, once I've pulled into the drive way and have my hands full of purses, groceries, diaper bag and such... I get Pauly out of his car seat and hand him the keys to the house. I say, "Pauly, go to the door and open it for mommy, here's the keys - now go to the door" - He takes the keys from me and runs to the backdoor and fishes through the keys trying to open the door for me as I gather bags and such and I follow right behind him getting us both safely to the door. (Our house is right by a pretty busy road so it could be pretty dangerous!) He's such a big boy and this trick has worked wonders!

I haven't got him to kick the tires yet, because he usually is just sitting in the shopping cart and I just set him right into the car seat but, with the new baby coming who knows how that will go - so the kicking of the tires training is in process...

Tonight, we were out on the back carport and right off the carport again, is that busy road. I was sitting on the ground working on putting back together my stroller (I took off the cover and washed it... suggestion: don't do this just buy a whole new one :) and I was dealing with like 25 screws and sitting on the ground a pregnant lady isn't going to get up and move quickly for nothing to chase a toddler that is running toward a busy road. So, I had him sit buy me in his little lawn chair, gave him a piece of paper towel to clean his dump truck with and put him in charge of holding my screwdriver aka "tool" - so I would work on getting a screw through the material and in the hole and then ask him to hand me the "tool" and he sat there and worked on cleaning his dump truck and handed me the "tool" for an hour! It rocked! I swear! Since he turned two, and I'm sure I'm just a dork about this, but I swear he has matured and is such a big kid all the sudden!

What tricks do you have/or did you have up your sleeves to keep your kids busy and safe?

Define your Style quiz

I was looking at a blog that I really like and she had a link on there to a fun quiz that links you to HomeGoods and helps you figure out what type of style you enjoy to help you design for your home. I took it and I would have to say I wasn't really surprised but it was fun to be "defined" as a certain style because at times I feel so scattered with my style and I do get frustrated trying to make it all flow. I love beachy, country yet I love classic and historical pieces... yes, pray for me. I have such a broad spectrum of loveliness but somewhere in there I'll find my way. Here is what the quiz said about my style...

The Lady of the House, you are a Country Classic

You have a naturally refined sensibility with an appreciation for tradition and history. You value beauty, craftsmanship, and family heirlooms, but you like to open things up with pretty, easy-going pieces like painted wood or distressed furniture, lovely florals and other patterns, and bunches of fresh flowers that give your home a breezy, relaxed feeling. You love unique finds, have a thrifty, creative side, and can make these things work together.

You value creativity. You are stylish and fun loving, and can be an inspiration to others. You have a natural sense of drama, and you know you have to be willing to take risks—whether with colors, finishes, furniture choices, or ideas—for your home to stand out. Your home can be happy and lively and the place all of your friends want to be.

** I highlight the painted wood as it is the running joke around my house that if you sit still for too long you might be spray painted white :)

Go and take the quiz and find out what your definition of style is and also get some fabulous design ideas for your home. Enjoy!

goodbye Fox man

Some of you know already that I was raised in a very small town surrounded by ranches and farms. We didn't really have either but odds and ends of animals here and there for 4-H and a hand full of horses my mom and dad roped on and later on we (me and my sisters) also learned to rope on. All three of us learn to rope on this old man. Foxy was born the same year as my middle sister- I think that was ''83. His mama passed away when he was born so we bottle fed him and he stayed in my Grandma Pattie's lambing shed. From birth he was pretty sure he was our little brother and he was most definitely a person. There were many times that I just knew he was being a stinker and hard headed because he wanted his way and was pretty sure his sisters (us girls) weren't giving him all his needed attention. At one ropin' he was being a HUGE stinker, giving me a really hard time in the box and just down right ornery the whole day - so I went and got on my spurs and I started swattin' him with the end of my rope - hopin' to line him out a little. We did a little better after that but when we got back to the horse trailer to unsaddle, I was walking behind him to put this and that away and he totally kicked me right in the middle of my butt. From that day on I knew he wasn't just the big black horse out back that we roped and goat tied off of - he was for sure serious about this whole I'm a real person thing.



I had quite the connection with all my horses - when I was a junior in High School I quit all my sports and decided to just go home from school every day and ride my horses and do homework. My grades went up and we all did better that year come rodeo season. Whenever anyone would ask me if I had a boyfriend, I would say yeah, 4 - Yellow Horse named... well... "Yeller" I know so creative, a sorrel horse that was about 4 hands high named "Miller" that I goat tied off of, and Foxy, who I headed (team roped) and breakaway (calf roped) off of and that leaves Barchone - our really old blue heeler dog that, as mom called him, the arena director. He would lay in the middle of the arena every day all through practice (And yes, one time Yeller and Jodi did run him over) and I think I probably did once or twice. After I left, Jodi and Casi used Miller and Foxy (we got rid of Yeller - he was a mess :) then one winter night, ole Barchone had to be put down, then one summer day at a junior rodeo Miller died, Foxy lasted the longest of all of them and bless their hearts, Daddy and Mom had to put him down yesterday. We all sure loved him and I am quite positive he had one of the most fabulous lives that a big black horse could have.



He took care of us from this arena to that one, from this hunting trip to that one, on this cattle drive and back to that one. He was always willing to back right back into the ropin' box when all we were doing was coming out and stickin' our loop right back into the dirt over and over and over again. He was always patient and willing to try new things, He was a reliable ropin' horse but everyone knew they could climb on him and run him around the barrels if they had to or they knew they could rely on him to come flamin' out of the box and run down the arena for some kid who needed a hazin' horse. He did it all and was always happy to. He was always a loving shoulder to cry on, he always listened, he was always happy to see us when we came home to visit. We'll miss you old man... we'll love you forever.

Ramblings...

It hasn't quite cooled off as much as I would like it to - but we are definitely getting a lot more cooler days mixed in with 90 degree weather here and there. I'm so glad too because I'm pretty sure that my sweat glads need a break. Is it possible that your pores can give out because they are tired of sweating?


We are up to our ears in tomatoes and thank you Jesus this weekend Granny (Hubby's mother) is coming over to help my dear husband can them. I wished that I had... well... the know how first of all and second of all, the energy and comfort level to can up some delicious jars of salsa, spaghetti sauce and whatever else I can think of. As it is, I can barely reach the dishes in the sink and just cleaning up the kitchen and here and there for a half an hour at the most DOES ME IN! So there is no way I could stand on my feet and successfully can I believe we have 50 lbs or more of tomatoes... Although, I can't can them I've been doing a pretty good job of eating at least 2 or 3 a day (of course always ending my day - well usually ending my day - with a delicious tomato on toast with mayo and salt and pepper...


I'm up to 3 Tums a night when I have heartburn as two WILL NOT DO THE JOB! It is amazing!

I am on my last chance of being able to paint my toenails I believe, so I better get that done soon!!

My hair has not seen very many diverse styles for the past 7 1/2 months I have boycotting all hair products, curling irons, etc. and the perfect hair due for being preggers in 100 degree weather for me is two pony tails with my bangs swooped over to the side up in bobby pins - usually 2 but sometimes 3. I currently have 3 grey hairs that creep out right in the front of my head where I part my hair. I got my first grey hair the day I brought Little Man home from the hospital, then I got the other the next year and recently found my third. As Samantha on Sex and the City says, if you pluck them then 20 more will come to their funeral... So I am not plucking them because of that. Besides... I'm considering being that lady that totally goes grey... completely embracing it - ya know! Will it be a problem if I have grey hair and my mom doesn't? I figure I have NO Hope in the grey hair department looking at the head of my grandparents... we'll see :)

Little Man and I took a trip to Winco on Tuesday - I was coming around the corner out of the freezer aisle and there it was... one of those "Emo" my husband said they are called... a boy with TIGHT pants on that were down to the middle of his knees, his shirt was stretched down to cover his bum and his hair in the middle of his back... gorgeous. I, without even thinking made this look like totally bewilderment and guess what! His mother caught me! She looked at her son and looked at me and kind of laughed like I caught you... I kind of sofly giggled like I know you caught me and I went on past... I kept on running into them and of course she pulled out in back of me when I was headed home. I instantly called my mom to tell her that if I end up beaten some where it was the mother/son team in Winco! They turned and I could finally breathe. I've got to keep that kind of thing to myself so I don't get beat up!

We also saw a newborn in the check out stand. I pointed the baby out to little man and his mouth dropped open. I think his little brain clicked and he put the two together of what really is in mama's belly!

Little Man will be 2 on Sunday! Dear Lord - I can't believe my tiny baby boy will be two.

Toodles till next time.

Made me smile...

"I will give you the treasures of darkness,
riches stored in secret places,
so that you may know that
I am the LORD, the God of Israel,
who summons you by name."
-Isaiah 45:3

Turning 2!!

Well... a week from now my little boy is turning 2 - I just can't believe how time has totally flown by! He is such a good boy and I know he is going to be a wonderful big brother! He is very busy and loves to go outside where he very much enjoys eating mud, playing in the sprinkler/water, run with Daphnie when she is chasing her ball that daddy throws (dad is quite often trying to aim for the top of Paul's head with the ball or see if he can cause a huge wreck between Dapher and Pauly - he is pretty successful!! Mean ole pa!), and he especially loves to "help" his daddy in the garden aka pick as many tomatoes, green peppers, etc. as he can get away with before daddy catches him. During the day while daddy is at work we run errands, get groceries, go to the park, color pictures, watch movies and he has been very helpful lately with laundry. I just give him a basket and I tell him to go put his dirty clothes from his basket into the basket I'm giving him and he does it! It rocks! I haven't really ever had too much trouble with him going to sleep at night (Thank you Jesus!) and when it comes around to bedtime - he pretty much tells me he is ready and we file into his bedroom, put his pjs on him and pray and give kisses and he is out! It is amazing! (Wonder if Dos will do the same?) Pauly is a pretty easy going kid so it does make me wonder what I'm in store for with Mr. Dos. Here is a picture Ben took of us at a Rugby game during the spring - I love it!

29 weeks!

I'm 29 weeks today - So excited but a little anxious. If I have a c-section which I'm guessing I probably will my Dr. said they usually take the baby 2 weeks early so I'll have this kid in about 9 weeks.... eeeek! We'll see what is supposed to happen I guess. I ordered a coming home outfit and it came yesterday - this is it. It has a little lighthouse, whale and boat on the shirt. Very similar to the type of style our little man's outfit looked like.

I have a list a mile long to still work on and I need to make the hubby his list. But for the most part, because I already have all my boy clothes and baby stuff already as this is #2 (Dos) I'm just filling in the blanks. Putting the two boys in one room is going to more interesting and challenging than I thought but we'll just take it day by day.

To add to my anxiety my little man is turning 2 soon... Man! I can't believe it - he is quite the little man and such a snuggler lately. He has been sick with the stomach flu for the past 3 days or so... I'm doing my best not to get sick - hopefully I am successful!

All my doctor appointments have been really smooth and I'm so thankful my blood pressure isn't up like last time! Dos is rocking and rolling and growing!! Toodles for now, The Lady

Snuggle Bug!

So my little Pauly sure is being a snuggle bug lately. He would always give me a kiss and hug if I asked him but now about 20 minutes before bedtime he wants to climb up on my lap (what lap?) and snuggle. I hold him like a little baby and pat his back and kiss his face... He is really lovin' the snuggling time - he must know some way or other that things are going to be changin' up a little here real soon! Little stinker.

What a mess!

I am a huge cartoon watcher and yes it is mostly Disney - from Winnie the Pooh to Beauty and the Beast, Old Yeller and my ultimate favorite Cinderella - having my first son gave me a really fabulous reason to get away with watching cartoons. I'm addicted!!! Even when I was pregnant with little man I would tell my husband that the reason I was already watching the Disney channel was because I was "previewing" the shows to make sure they are okay for our little man to watch or not. I'm pretty picky and won't even let him watch some little shows because of the speech impediments they give some of the characters not to mention the snappy back talkin' characters that are on the majority of shows lately.

On the Disney channel I let him watch Mickey Mouse Clubhouse (hot dog, hot dog, hot diggity dog - sorry I had to throw that in :), My friends Tigger and Pooh, and Handy Manny (w/ some other exceptions) There is NO Sponge Bob allowed in the house, and none of those Tweeny/Tenny Bopper Movies (THEY ARE SO MOUTHY!) A lot of the shows that are on are SO Inappropriate! ALSO have you ever noticed how many characters have speech impediments? (Tigger and piglets are terrible! but they fall into my exception category) The little Wonder Pets on Nickelodeon are terribly cute and adorable and they are a speech impediment nightmare! Why is it so important to make a character talk funny to make them interesting?

Now, I am not saying that speech impediments are a bad thing, I totally understand that some and probably most kids (at one time or another) have the unfortunate struggle of having to work through speech problems. BUT I just don't want my kid (s) learning them on television.

The other HUGE problem I have with most movies for kids involves one or more of the following: smoking, drinking (to drunkenness), or just mouthy kids. Even on Dumbo - they get drunk! Alice in Wonderland - the caterpillar was smoking! Beauty and the Beast - Gaston and his sidekick are drinking in the pub ---------- it just does not end! I've noticed this a while ago and it was when I was quite young (like freshman in high school) and I thought then I should write a letter to someone about this. Although I never did, NOW having my own kid (s) I feel like I really should do something about it! Can't "the kid these days" enjoy movies and still find them interesting without these things... Is it just way too much to ask? Or are they so used to it that flicks just aren't interesting to them anymore without kids talking back to their parents and cartoon characters throwing back a shot or two?

My husband and I have decided to discontinue our Dish Network (which I'm totally proud of us! Go Team!)... We have not been watching near as much television and when there is "nothing" on we turn the t.v. off and read books and play outside or something. Weekly, I consider living without television as a whole BUT then I think about Monday Night Football and I remember that it is on Dish (not on regular television anymore :( and I'm not sure if I can handle October and November (being pregnant and WITHOUT my football!!) so we'll see how long no Dish Network lasts and we honestly just aren't the type of people to go without t.v. as a whole - hopefully we are working toward a happy medium in our household. What is your opinion? Any thoughts?

Hidey Ho and link to a Fabulous Giveaway!

Fabulous Giveaway Link to Peanut Petunia - it is a cute little blog and I found her blog through one of my most favorite blogs The Lettered Cottage
It is Peanut Petunia's 100 Post - Congratulations! and go sign up for her wonderful giveaway.

So the last couple days have been a little strange. I woke up Thursday morning at 2 p.m. with sever pains which I was thinking at first I had stomach flu but then it felt like my uterus was contracting and squeezing... It was happening about 3 times or more an hour. I'm only 27 weeks so I was worried. Mr. and I woke up, called Granny to watch Little Man and headed to the Hospital where they monitored us for 3 hours. Everything turned out to be fine. I couldn't believe those pains though... they had me tossin' and turnin' and sweatin' just a MESS! So it wasn't my uterus it was my stomach and Thank you Jesus everything is just fine now. I'm feeling 100% better and just so thankful everything is okay. Enjoy your weekend!

Toodles, The Lady

I'm anxious...

Philippians 4:4-7
4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding,

will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

I really needed to read this today... I'm looking around my house thinking oooooh crap! new baby coming and lots to do... but if I think about it for a second without letting my emotions take over - I'm really doing pretty good and it won't take much effort to get everything right the way it needs to be and lets all remember... everything always works out :) *Sigh*

Wheel of Fortune!

There is no doubt that Pauly is a huge fan of Wheel of Fortune and has been since he was very tiny. I remember when he would be running around in his walker and Wheel of Fortune would come on and he would come running from the other side of the kitchen to come and watch it! Well things haven't changed much except for now he actually screams at the television as if he is solving the puzzle or yelling out a letter. For some reason he yells out the same thing every time which is, "NINE!" We just laugh and laugh - we don't have a clue where he got it and we think it is hilarious that he is screaming a number instead of a letter. It is just too much!

Plus he always claps along. Through the entire show no matter if he is eating or playing he will drop everything he is doing and clap along. With a big grin on his face and those hands just a clapping' along he is in heaven when Wheel of Fortune comes on!!

Quite the character!

Are there ever times when you see a cartoon character and it totally reminds you of someone you know? When my sister married her husband, my mom pointed out that he was very similar to Woody on Disney's Toy Story... see the resemblance? Isn't that crazy! And I'm telling you there is this part on Toy Story 2 where Woody has a little swagger in his step and it is just like Bub (we call him bub since he was our first brother (in-law)) Anyhow, I've discovered I have just that same type of character in my own home and it just happens to be another Disney favorite...

I'm married to Mr. Incredible (incredible in more ways than one of course!)

See...

Now of course it isn't exact but it is "incredible" how their personalities are quite similar as well as their looks!! Proud of their work, not to mention very hardworking, loves his family and dashingly handsome!

As I do this post I watch my little man and I'm trying to decide what type of character he is becoming and there is now doubt that he is following in his daddy's footsteps and I believe I have another "incredible" on my hands.

(Little Man flexing his muscles!!)Not to mention the little rascal that is in my belly - he is for sure quite the character - I can tell already!

Nap Time!

So... today we had errands to do and Pauly did catch a cat nap here and there in the car but once we got home I knew he needed a little better nap... I laid him down, told him to go to sleep and take a nap - he had a little bit of a hard time sleeping but then in the middle of nap time - I hear him wake up, go to his door and lay down in front of it. I wake up from my nap a few minutes later to find that he has truly went to sleep in front of his door... there is no way I can open it and put him back in bed so I just leave him there (Maybe we can win the $100,000 on Funniest Home Videos because I totally got it on video)

Oh! He just woke up, better go save him - he is cranky - I can tell... Mimi said I better blow in his ear to re inflate that side of his head... I'm sure it is sore!

About Me!

getting to know me - getting to know all about me... (la! la! la!) Isn't there a song like that on the King and I? Well this post is LONG OVER DUE! I haven't posted anything in a while... I've honestly had a hard time thinking of something... blame it on my pregnancy brain-deadness I guess.

Anyhow, here we go...


I am 28 years old and my birthday is May 18th (Same as George Strait - who growing up loving all things country western from clothes, music and every day life that made me pretty happy when I found out!)

I've been married to my hubby for almost 5 years... Totally need to think of something fun and creative for this anniversary... better call Granny and make sure she's available for babysitting :)

I grew up in a small small very small town out in the middle of no where - we rode the bus for about 45 minutes to and from school. Population sign for the longest time said 26... & I was related to everyone! That is why my mom and I joke - she had to go all the way to Nevada to find her husband and mine came from Alaska! To see a lot more about small town life where I grew up and our family check out my mom's blog (Idaho Round Pen) click here!

I played most sports growing up and loved it! Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, Track and we all rodeoed. I played Volleyball and Basketball in High School up until my Junior year and that year I decided I was going to graduate early so I took on a very big load of junior and senior classes to help me accomplish that. I also just wanted to practice ropin' as much as possible - so every day that year when we got home from school we were off to the practice pen out in front of our house. Lopin' horses and ropin' the dummy, tyin' our goat (all of our goats and we've probably gone through 10-15 were named Elvis - we're just quirky like that) - I was in the top 10 for Breakaway Ropin (Girls calf ropin') in Idaho my Junior and Senior year. I loved it!

I have two little sisters - I'm the oldest. I'm very protective!


I'm 26 weeks along with our second son... We still don't have a name... We're struggling with this one so far - BUT we don't share till their born anyway so I guess it doesn't really matter any way. Come on November - Mama is cookin'!



I am truly in love with beachy type cottage decor. I love home design and decor - I think I'm obsessed! I really haven't decided what I want to be when I grow up as far as besides being a mama. I've really felt pulled in this direction... I guess you never know where the Lord will use you... for now, I'm content.


I'm totally a girlly girl - just ask my family... I hate being dirty. and I already have my hair thingy box all ready for when I ever have a girl... will it ever happen? or will I forever have to get my girlly-fix off of my nieces? We'll see :)

I wish I was more of a do it all kind of gal... I'm workin' at it! I wished I knew more about DIY home stuff, gardening and such. I do love cookin' and I'm okay at it - I mean my husband and son are still alive... right? Totally a Martha wannabe :)

I love a good drama movie! My favorite movies are You've Got Mail and Step Mom - which I realized last night are both based in New York... So I think I also have a unknown obsession for wanting to travel there.


So excited for the new Meryl Streep movie Julie/Julia :) LOVE IT!


Favorite actors - can't think of any right now... duh! Liam Neeson is probably one...

actresses - Amy Adams and Rachel McAdams (isn't that weird they both have Adams in their last name?)


I don't read! Yet another thing I wished I did... I heart kid's books but can not for the life of me sit down with a "good book" for one - I have a toddler and that just doesn't happen for me and two I start thinking about anything and everything else. When it comes to reading my Bible I honestly have to pray about staying focused and asking God to help my mind not wander... I'm working on it :)


favorite Bible verse : Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the Desires of your heart Psalms 37:4


I'm a huge fan of going through clutter and junk drawers and making a Youth Ranch pile to donate! It is invigorating!! BUT I have to be careful - sometimes I think I offend people when I do it :( Sometimes I'll get something from someone that I have many of so I am not afraid to donate or re gift... I think that should be okay... am I the only one?


I love coffee! I mean I love it! I guess I got that from my dad and Grandma Pattie (she heats coffee up from her coffee pot in the microwave that has been sitting there since yesterday - she's adorable & my dad's coffee has to be strained through a dish towel before I can drink it... grounds anyone?)

I love arts and crafts!

I go a little organizing crazy when I'm nesting... just ask my husband...

I'm a huge fan of eating out... terrible I know but I love the whole getting waited on thing... My husband calls me a princess... Aren't I a Queen though?

that is all for now - I'll write more next time.. toodles

Goodnight! What a stink!

Remember in Charlotte's Web when Avery Zukerman fell onto Wilbur's slop trough and under it was that Templeton's fantastically stinky dud of a Goose egg - the trough obviously crushed the egg and the terrible smell filled the air? ...

Well my son has started the stinky burps and I kid you not he totally burped in my face just now! OMG! I totally almost passed out! I can't believe little perfect me (who never has a stinky anything!) is filled in a house with only stinky! boys!

My mom always teased me by saying "I hope you end up with all girls!" She was pretty sure that my sisters and I were so challenging that she wanted us to have to go through the same thing we put her through... pretty funny that I've ended up with all boys so far... Believe me - Pauly sure keeps me hoppin'! I'm not convinced that boys are so much easier... the little boys in my family are IN TO EVERYTHING!!!! Very busy!

At least after Pauly has any type of "bodily function" he has started saying - excuse me (which actually sounds like goo-me) and he puts his hand over his mouth... It is pretty cute!

Prepare for Dos!

So in preparation for our newest addition "Mr. Dos" I have made up a little list of things I need to fill in the gaps. Obviously I already have a lot of the stuff I need for baby #2 as I already had baby #1...

It is just amazing how the Lord works. I made up a list of things I needed, and slowly but surely, without even really sharing my little list with anyone (except for ma and sisters) - people send me, randomly, things I need off my list! It is just amazing and I am so grateful to the Lord for this type of reassurance that he is the Amazing Provider and will always take care of us.

Nesting

As all of you already mama's know - Nesting is a feeling that comes over your body during the last trimester to get your house all ready for your new born baby. I'm just starting to get that feeling of wanting to turn my house up-side-down and go to town on it! Except it has been too hot! I have been doing a few things here and there and I have my list. I'm sure I'll get it all done soon enough! There isn't much to do as this is our second boy.

This morning I was thinking about this feeling I have to go crazy cleaning and reorganizing and I thought about nests - how much work birds put into making their little nests the perfect home for their tiny ones is just amazing isn't it! I actually love birds and nests as part of decor so below are a few pics I found of where people have used bird's nests in their decor. Enjoy!

This chandelier is amazing - but I'm not sure how one would go about cleaning it. Probably really carefully!


This came off of Etsy - funkiefinds is the seller.

I found this at quillcottage.blogspot.com - I love the bird and the nest!

Aren't these creative - love them and totally doable!

This is totally me. The letters, the candles, the glass... I love it all!

Let's Go!

Pauly's new thing is telling us "Let's Go" He takes his hand and waves us to come his way and says it in his cute little half understandable language. It is too adorable.

Now he has started doing a wind-up with his leg where he pulls it up as if he is a hardball pitcher - it is too cute! He says it for everything, when it is time to go change his diaper, eat dinner, go outside or if we are actually getting ready to leave the house. I need to get it on camera before he is on to the next adorable thing.

I've Lost my COOL!

For the last 4 to 5 days, here in western Idaho, we've had triple digit temperatures. My husband jokes and says that if the temperature is hotter than our body temperature (what is it supposed to be 98.6 or so?) that is no good! I totally agree as I have (not to mention extra insulation (if you will) another human being inhabitating my habitat... Ughhh... I'm getting so sick of the heat! Not only am I loosing it over the heat but also I've definately noticed that the pregnancy hormone craziness has been coming out loud and clear.

Up until about a week or two ago I had definately been struggling with monitoring what I just let spew from my mouth as if I am an out of control bubblegum machine. Bubble Gum coming out everywhere and there is nothing you can do to stop it! Whatever was coming to mind I would just splurt it out and not even give it a second thought as to if it might hurt my husband's feelings or not. I was letting Satan get away with WAY too much! I had a break down and my hubby and I struggled for a whole weekend - where I couldn't quite figure out what the problem was. I just knew he was driving me crazy, he was a stinky, gross man who was completely unaware of what I needed or expected from him nor (I thought) did he care to know. I was so disgusted by even just looking at him and I just knew that I really liked it when he left for work and sometimes I wished he would stay there!

Finally Saturday evening, after I had talked to my dad, I realized that I wasn't being aware of what I was saying and any old thing that came to mind during our conversations I would say it. When I'm struggling with such things, I usually talk to my mom and sisters and things tend to just blow over... I can't hardly ever talk to my dad without bawling and everyone knows when your bawling you can't listen or really get anywhere in the conversation - so I usually just tell mom... No I can't talk to him - I'm okay. I think it is because I'm very concerned and probably mostly embarrassed of what he'll think about me having such issues.

I went to the Library and picked up 'Help Me! I'm Married' By Joyce Meyer (this author and speaker is a family favorite) She talked about asking the Lord to give you a new set of eyes for your husband, which has helped me with the whole - he's just a stinky man thing... :) and also she encourages you to pray for the Lord to help you be a better listen vs. trying to always have the last word.

Anyhow, through much prayer and petition of getting back in the Word... and as daddy-o says "Got to Battle, Battle Every Day" I've been monitoring my thoughts and actions and working through this hiccup. It is totally working like a charm and those snappy, cranky things I once would of said are getting held back to reflect a more loving and respectful wifey.

Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

James 1:19-21

little tid bits

for dinner tonight - pan fried chicken breasts, steamed zucchini and yellow squash and baked potatoes with cheddar and sour cream

we're watching - The Bachelorette, The Men Tell All - She has two great guys to pick from Ed and Tristan (who was my first pick on the very first show but I've switched to Ed as being my pick for Jill) We'll see who she picks!

tonight - Ben worked late but got home earlier than I thought - nice surprise :)

the temperature - is too hot! Our house is not air conditioned so we spend a lot of our time down in our basement.

tomorrow - Paul and I will do a few house chores and in the afternoon he is going to spend the night with Granny and Grandad.

my next doctor's appointment - is Wednesday morning I'm excited to hear the baby's heart beat again. He is kicking around like crazy as we speak!

I miss - my family. My mom and dad's house should be done soon and I am so looking forward to a long weekend to spend with them and my sisters and their kids and just bummin' around and laughing till we pee our pants ... okay, okay till I pee my pants (why is it always me?)

I hear - my boy playing with his daddy laughing as they sharing a piece of cake, the window air conditioner humming, the dishwasher washing and the television blaring, Daphnie's collar jingling as she itches

I'm looking forward to - lunch with a long lost friend I haven't seen in 7 or 8 years ... kinda nervous but mostly excited!

I need to - make a organizing list and get hopping before this baby is born :)

Something Funny!

So this weekend (on Saturday) we went to Jerome for our Stauffer Family Reunion - we saw so a lot of family that we hadn't seen in a while. It was very nice to also see my immediate family as I hadn't seen them in a few months.

The reunion was at a park and we ate really yummy food like prime rib, delicious salads and tasty desserts.

After eating we went swimming at the Rec Center there. We took all the kids and they loved it! We were just swimming around and then all the sudden, out of nowhere, I started singing - I've Got You Under My Skin... just singing along then Casi says - literally, you literally got something under you skin. We just laughed and laughed till tears were filled in our eyes. It was hysterical!

Don't Talk To Strangers!! vs. Be Friendly!!

So... for the last couple times that we have took a trip to the grocery store, my little rascal has been - And I'm not kidding! - seems like he is running for President of the United States! He is telling everyone! and I mean everyone! Hello! Good Bye! Hi! (with a sweet little wave) and I'm surprised that he isn't kissing babies and signing ladies chests... this kid is flirty, friendly and seriously outgoing! It, sort of, embarrasses me... just a teeny tiny - but then the mama in me is so proud of him for being friendly and sweet. EVERYONE always smiles and says hi and just gets a kick out of him.

Last time we were in Winco I thought for sure that people were kind of worried about him because it was just after his dad shaved his head WAY TOO SHORT! so people kind of were looking at him like... is he sick? oh well, I'll just say hi - and they'd say something like, "you're so cute" and "awwwwwww" But tonight they were just like regular friendly back to him since he doesn't look like such a poor little bald pale boy :(

When is it okay to say be friendly and when is time to say - don't talk to strangers? I always want my kids to be greeting people with smiles and be friendly - that is what I try and do... I guess the challenge is teaching them that in certain situations you do have to be quiet and also to learn to read people's character and know when they are trustworthy vs. not trustworthy/shady - ya know?

My Wish

Some of you might recognize the lyrics below it is to the song sung by Rascal Flatts. I love it and I always thought portions of it would be so cool stenciled somewhere maybe in a kids room or maybe a play room... I love it so much and I wanted to share! Enjoy!

I hope that the days come easy and the moments pass slow,

And each road leads you where you want to go,

And if you're faced with a choice, and you have to choose,

I hope you choose the one that means the most to you.

And if one door opens to another door closed,

I hope you keep on walkin' till you find the window,

If it's cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile,

But more than anything, more than anything,

My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,

Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,

You never need to carry more than you can hold,

And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,

I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,

Yeah, this, is my wish.I hope you never look back, but ya never forget,

All the ones who love you, in the place you left,

I hope you always forgive, and you never regret,

And you help somebody every chance you get,

Oh, you find God's grace, in every mistake,

And you always give more than you take.

But more than anything, yeah, and more than anything,

My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,

Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,

You never need to carry more than you can hold,

And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,

I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,

Yeah, this, is my wish.

My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,

Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,

You never need to carry more than you can hold,

And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,

I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,

Yeah, this, is my wish.

This is my wish I hope you know somebody loves you

May all your dreams stay big

Snot Rag!

So Pauly has a new trick... he has always been the type of kid to HATE and I mean hate! having a snotty nose... most kids will just let it drip down (mom, I know your gagging right now :) and they lick it and well you know... Anywho... Pauly ever since he could say it will say "Nose..!" after he sneezes. He'll sneeze than say "Nose!" waiting for whoever is closest to wipe his nose - BUT lately he has a new trick where he'll sneeze - say "Nose!" then wipe his nose on ... YOU! So watch out Mimi! He does it almost every time. I can't wait to see what happens if he does it on Grandpa Bill at the family reunion. Hilarious!

Busy little Mr. Brown!

If you could, you'd want to follow daddoo all day long,

right behind him, with your matching blue jeans on,

Belt buckle, work boots and that hat pulled down tight,

Keep up! Gotta keep up! with all your Might!

Please help daddy feed the horses and fix that worn out fence,

You're an awesome daddy's helper, but that only makes sense!

Mama and Sissy will be waiting for you both with arms open wide,

They're so proud of you brother for working by daddy's side!

Wrangling the doggys and keeping a really close eye,

on those chickens, kittens and cows - Be careful! Oh My!

You're busy, yes so busy, you've got lots of things to do,

but now it's time to sleep Mr. Brown and shut those eyes of blue!

In the morning it will start again and there will be lots and lots to see,

like rocks and sticks and muddy holes and don't forget to climb that tree!

Our busy little Mr. Brown, you're quite the little guy,

May the Lord bless and keep you, for you're the apple of our eye!

Love you forever, Aunt Sam

Where do I begin?

Do you ever feel like you are watching your life and not participating in it? I've been feeling this way for a while and I just can't seem to snap out of it! I am in a fog and I have aspirations of "the woman I want to be" and know I have it in me somewhere... I just can't seem to get the ball rolling in the right direction.

My sister and I were talking about this the other day and I was telling her what I was working on, as far as personal goals and aspirations, and she was telling me about her things. This way we can encourage each other - but honestly it obviously can't just end there... I've got to Start! I've got to get going! or I'll be sitting here another 10 more years from now and wish I would have (as I do now).

These aren't really career things, I've never really been a career type gal - I never went to college, I've never really had any true career goals or ideas of "What I wanted to be when I grow up" my challenges mainly include becoming a Woman of Substance for mainly my God, my family and myself. I need to establish a daily, weekly, monthly routine consisting of everything from exercise, to family time, to home projects and goals, and don't forget outings for the kiddo.

As the Proverbs 31 verse goes I want to be a Godly woman, I am going to work towards my husband and children being proud of me and I hope they see me more precious than any jewel in the world, I will strive to be more diligent with the affairs of our home, become a noble woman and every morning rises before those in my home and that way I can get my day started seeking his face, with prayer and devotion.

So, where do I start? I feel like I'm getting swallowed by the never ending tornado... I can't get out of the pulling and swirling of what the world wants and the idea that I've already failed and there is !No Hope! I should be this woman already! Where did I go wrong, why am I stuck!? I guess I could go on and on about asking questions as to Why and How did this happen and Where did I go wrong?

BUT!! That isn't going to get me anywhere. I've wrote out my plan and all I can do is pray and Start!

This morning I read something on DivineVerses.com and it mentioned that we can set up plans but those plans don't necessarily mean they are God's plan for us. It reminded me that I need to seek his ways first and rely on him for the plan for my life. (Prov 3:5-6) So I have a outline, "a game-plan", and I will seek him daily for guidance and strength... by listening (can't forget the most important part) that is the only way to Start!

Proverbs 3:9-18
9 Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: 10 So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine. 11 My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: 12 For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. 13 Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. 14 For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. 15 She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. 16 Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. 17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. 18 She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.

Reporting for Duty

Daddy got a little carried away with the haircut last night. The Army called and wants Pauly. Such a great head won't go unnoticed!

When Ben was done cutting his hair, I took him in the bathroom and held him up to the mirror and he looked at himself, said "OH! No" and hung his head in shame. It was kind of sad... (but kinda funny too!)

I think mama goes back to doing the haircut again next time! Daddy is FIRED!

Tick - Tock - Tick - Tock

I often wonder if my house has that certain comfort that just makes you want to return as soon as possible. Both of my Grandma's houses had clocks in them that would make lovely sounds on the 1/2 hour and hour mark. I loved them! I loved hearing it during the night, knowing everyone was all snuggly in their beds and the clock was ticking and tocking along till morning when I would wake to be greeted by my Grandma Pattie's smile and hugs or my Grandma Sally's sweet songs that was either 'You are my Sunshine' or 'Good Morning to you, Good Morning to you - you look like a monkey and you smell like one too'... I loved every second of it! I also loved I could tell what time it was without even waking up all the way and I didn't have to get out of bed to check - I instantly knew the count down till morning... Ahhhhh... simply lovely.

I want my house to have that certain loveliness about it. I want my kids to hear that lovely tune during the night and know they are safe in bed and look forward to the morning where they will be greeted by my smiling face, a hug and maybe a sweet song or two. My house is probably too small right now for one of these beauties but some day I'll have a clock and it might not be as big as these but it will sing that sweet tune to assure us that morning is on its way.

photographed by James Merrell

Scottish Mahogany Round Dial Grandfather Clock

Masterpiece Faux Black Cherry Mini Grandfather Clock

Bulova Jerome I Bulova Villa


Cream Grandfather Clock

If you are wondering the first one was my favorite! I couldn't find who made it only who photographed it. Takes my breath away...