One ordinary life...

revealing! :)

2010-08-20T05:32:00.000-07:00

I have been having the worst case of insomnia lately! Trouble falling asleep, waking up in the middle of the night, not being able to go back to sleep, flipping and flopping in the bed....you name it, I have experienced it in the last week. I am hoping I can get back on the sleep train *very* soon - this mama is T.I.R.E.D. *yawn*

Thought I would share my Little Red Scrapbook layouts for August! :) I got to play with the fabulous and awesome new Sassafras line, Indie Girl. I had soooo much fun with this kit!!!

First up:
A layout with a great picture of my grandpa with my kids. We went to visit to celebrate his 80th birthday and I am so thankful to have these pictures. :) I just love that die cut paper by MME. I might have to make another page with the second one I picked up.

Next:
A layout with some funny pictures of Layne enjoying his first bowl of homemade ice cream!! The title is what he said after he ate his first bite. So cute!! :) He makes me laugh everyday.

One last one:

Tried some new splatter misting here! Had fun just adding little bits and bobs onto this one. :) A page about Bayleigh and her cousin - they have become good friends (read: a lot less fighting and bickering). We don't see them too often, so it is always fun for them to get together and play.

That's all for now....gotta go find my motivation to go to the gym. hehe Anybody seen it anywhere?!?!? *grin* Send it my way!

Bayleigh goes to school this afternoon to meet her teacher - so it should be a fun afternoon filled with excitement about the upcoming school year!

Happy Friday everyone!

Until next time...

XO

checking in before checking out! :)

2010-08-03T16:47:00.000-07:00

Life at the Wildes' casa has been INSANE lately!!!

We have:
* sent Bayleigh to her first sleepover camp! (EEEKKKK!!)
* did a 2-week stint of swimming lessons
* went and visited the in-laws twice
* survived planning and executing Vacation Bible School at church
* celebrated the 4th of july - and now I must note that Layne is OBSESSED with fireworks now
* said goodbye to our favorite Jeep after 10 years (forced goodbyes are the most paintful *wink*)
* purchased a new truck
* shopped for a new truck (need I say more?!?!?!?)

I have:
* worked out every week for 8 weeks
* lost 14 pounds *big HUGE grin*

We are feverishly packing to go on our annual lake vacation tomorrow. Most of the big stuff is done....just doing the last minute stuff! And listening to Layne hit his terrible twos in stride! Oyyy, I am so *NOT* ready for this. hehe

I have some pics to share...and then I have to commence the packing once again. *dry heave*

We have spent LOTS of time in the water this summer. It has been soooo hot. Unbearably hot, really. The humidity is stifling and we just go out for about 45 minutes and are done for the day.

Hope that you have a great weekend....we will be back next week from our vacation! I am sure I will have many updates to share then. :)

Until next time....

XO

a mini! :)

2010-06-29T07:25:00.000-07:00

I totally forgot to share this mini that I made with the fabulous new October Afternoon "Fly A Kite" line and some American Crafts bits and pieces.... Let me just say, the colors are just plain delicious!!!! :)

I have been trying to come up with some way to feature the school pictures that I dish out big bucks for every year. I mean, as a scrapbooker, I always feel the need to get the fall *AND* the spring pictures. That means double the wallets and keychain photos! *grin* So, I got all the wallets out that we have purchased since Bayleigh started Pre-K in 2005. (YIKES!) And they sat. And sat. And well, sat some more.

Then, I got a creative inspiration and RAN with it. :)

Here is what I came up with...just so happy with how it came out and to be able to display all those fun little pictures and see how she has grown.

I started by painting this fun, scalloped Maya Road chipboard album white and adding lots of little bits and bobs here and there. :) Now I need to find another of these albums to keep going with it next year! Anyone know where to find them?? *huge grin*

Hope you are having a fabulous Tuesday!

XO

2010-06-24T07:41:00.000-07:00

I am finally back....sheesh! I have been having trouble with my google storage and couldn't post pictures on here. Finally got the kinks worked out and I am back up and running! YAY for modern technology, huh?? *grin*

On to the good stuff....my Little Red Scrapbook layouts for June. :)

This layout is about how our family has gone green and my thoughts on the whole thing....how important it is for our children and generations to come. :) All the green was great for this 6x12 page....and I used the ribbon addon and the embellishment addon with the main kit.

(I used the swirl Basic Grey border and some turquoise mist to get the fun little border along the middle of this layout!)This was my FAVORITE layout this month!!!! :) Just a spur of the moment type of thing and I had a blast with it. All the pictures are wallet sized prints from Walmart. I used the ribbon addon, embellishment addon, and alphabet addon in addition to the main kit. And those bingo cards by Jenni Bowlin = PERFECTION!!!

(I used the piece of fabric that the stick pins came on to create this little embellishment grouping! :) LOVE!)A fun, elegant layout about my sweet and beautiful girl. :) She is such a beauty and I love that I captured her face mid-laugh. *huge smile* And the remarkable thing?? She is just as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside. I used the alphabet addon and embellishment addon along with the main kit here...and a few things from my own stash.

And my last layout was about how the time is passing so quickly with my son. :( Seems like I just brought him home from the hospital or was pinching those drooly, chubby cheeks. And now he is lying on the floor pitching fits because he has to put his train away or has to go take a nap or has missed the garbage truck passing our house or or or....*laugh* Ahhh, the terrible two's. I used one of the chipboard sheets from the Basic Grey album in the embellishment addon and tucked it behind the photo.

Holy picture overload batman! haha

I will wrap up this post and be back in a day or two for some fun summer updates!!

Until next time...

XO

hello there blog world....

2010-06-19T19:13:00.000-07:00

Nice to see you again!! :)

Summer approached in very rapid fashion. Now our days are spent keeping cool at all costs. It has been stifling hot here in North Florida. Ick and double ick. Thank goodness we have a membership to the YMCA because we take advantage of their pool on a weekly basis.

I have started on a healthier lifestyle journey. This just ended week 2. I have been running and fast walking on the treadmill everyday and just making better food choices. Stopping when full. Eating lighter. Eating more frequently. After 2 weeks, I am down 5.5 pounds. So, I am making progress and it is nice to know that busting my butt is actually working. *grin*

Now if I could just convince my husband not to make such wonderfully delicious meals on the weekends, I would be in good shape. Today it was ricotta and parmesan eggplant. Oy...I think I might be full for days. haha

I have been a reading fool lately....my latest read is "Eat, pray, love." Pretty good little book and I hear the movie will be coming out soon. :) Would love suggestions on books since I seem to be reading in rapid fashion lately.

Alrighty, off to bed. I will be back tomorrow with some Little Red Scrapbook layouts. Lots of fun stuff for June... Be sure to check it out.

Night...

XO

check it!

2010-04-19T12:30:00.000-07:00

So, it's been another month...haha....

We have been busy with birthday parties, Easter, trips to visit family, and other more mundane things. :) We really have enjoyed the past month greatly! I am so thankful for my family and the time that I get to spend everyday being home and taking care of them.

I wanted to come and share a layout with you. I completed this layout for Inspired Blueprints. I have been on their team for a year and am hoping to earn a spot for another term! We will see what news comes this week. :)

This is Sketch #46. If you have never checked them out before (and I don't know why you wouldn't have!!!) - go and check it out. The sketches are crisp and always so creatively inspiring.

All materials used are from the April Little Red Scrapbook kit. Seriously....such a fun, fun kit!! :) That Pink Paislee paper is delicious and can be used for boys, girls, and adults of all ages...tee hee

I am off to wrestle a very grumpy 2 year old. *sigh* He is cutting 4 teeth - all of his canines. *double sigh* I hear him throwing books in his jumper right now.

Have a very blessed Monday!

XO

march LRS reveal :)

2010-03-19T06:50:00.000-07:00

So, I have been MIA for far too long. I know, I know. The sickies came and ravaged our house - between my upper respiratory infection, Bayleigh's allergic reaction, Layne's constant wet cough and ear infections, and lots of tissues and sort throats - lots of things have taken the back seat! Including blogging.... boooo!!!! *snicker*

Thought that I would come and share my March Little Red Scrapbook kit pages and projects. I was nervous about this kit, but I don't know why. I always create some of my favorite pages with Sassafras! :)

Of course, I got all the fun addons! And unfortunately, they are all sold out - including the main kit. Soooooooooo, if you don't want to miss out on next month's kit (and I PROMISE that you don't) - GO SUB NOW!!! Next month's kit is sooo awesome and I cannot wait to get it in my hot little hands....including ALL of the addons. (Did you doubt that?!?!?) RUN, don't walk, to get your subscription going, so that you don't miss out.

Okay, on with the projects!! heehee (A page documenting the number of children we have at this point in our family - 1 and then 2... :) This is one of my all time favorite pictures of the kids.)

(A layout documenting Bayleigh and her bff, Eden, and how long they have been friends... I am telling you those border stickers are quite addicting.)

(A page using some old black and white pictures of Andy and Bayleigh from a while back...she is most definitely all his - both because she has him wrapped around her finger and they are SOOOO alike in personality...hehe You all should feel bad for me... *giggle* Seriously though, you should.)

(A page using some REALLY old pictures of Bayleigh when she was about 1 1/2 years old!!! LOVE this one....used some Maya mist and once again, those banner stickers. hehehe)
(A card for a friend who is going through a rough patch in her life.....love that little girl with scissors...and thought it would be a great way to express to her that I am thinking of her and praying that she is bold!!!)

I will be back to share a little tag mini I made with the kit...I figured I have overwhelmed you enough with pictures today!! :)

Hope that you have a great Friday. I am just waiting to get my oil changed and then we are on to fun things today - including maybe some lunch out! We will see...

Until next time...

XO

your chance!! :)

2010-02-16T10:33:00.000-08:00

Here is your chance to earn a Guest Design Team spot at Little Red Scrapbook.

We are looking for a March Guest Designer. Do you love to scrapbook and do you have a blog or an online gallery, if you do, then all you need to do is complete the following challenge and upload your layout to our LRS 2010 March GDT Gallery, then our Design Team, Rachel and I will choose one lucky person to be our Guest Designer for March.

March GDT Contest:
Create one layout about a special love of your life, or about a special friendship you have with someone.

March GDT Rules:
Deadline: February 20, 2010 midnight your time
Requirements: If chosen as GDT for March you will receive one complimentary LRS March kit. You will be required to create 4 layouts and 2 altered projects with the kit to be completed by a specified date. You will also be asked to introduce yourself on the board and be an active member on the board through the month of March. If you have any questions, please email me at sara@littleredscrapbook.com

I cannot wait to see what you submit!

Happy scrapping.... :)

Be back tomorrow with my design team layouts for February. The kit sold out uber fast, so if you want the AWESOME (and I mean awesome....I already know what it is ;)) March kit...hurry and sign up now. You will not want to miss this one for sure!!

XO

hanging on....

2010-02-11T05:30:00.000-08:00

It's been a wild, wild past month and a half or so. W. I. L. D.

My life was in shambles just a short month ago. I mean I felt like I had lost myself, my faith, my body, my being, my marriage....basically everything. All I knew was that I needed to keep praying to the Lord, even though, with all my being I didn't want to. Hey, I am just being honest. Sometimes it's hard to pray when you feel so lost and alone. Or it is hard to pray a prayer that you have prayed for nearly a decade only to feel as though God has left the premises. hehe Maybe I have a small faith, I dunno. But, that is just me. I just kept reminding myself that God spoke through Esther, yet His name is never found in the book. His divine providence was on her life without the mention of His name. That is some awesome stuff!

So, I kept praying. And guess what?? God delivered. He has delivered me from my sadness and lack of identity. I am His. That is all the identity that I need right now. I am going regularly to MOPS and making friends. I am going to a weekly Beth Moore bible study. I am scrapbooking again. I am reading books. I am going to the gym. I am going to counseling. There are other pieces of my life that are still not "healthy." Yet, those things are not things that *I* alone can change. So, I just keep praying for those things and count on Him to deliver. Even in the midnight hour. And I know He will. He never forsakes His own and He won't do it to me either.

*sigh* Now that I got that off my chest, onto to other things going on in the Wildes household.

This little man is about to turn 2..and he is just one big ball of energy. Wow...he really keeps me on my toes. He loves to throw. Anything....balls, yes. Toys, yes. Remote controls, yes. You name it, he will attempt a wide out screen pass. HA! His vocabulary has just blossomed so much in the past month - and he tries to repeat everything we say. (reminder to self: watch car language). heehee He just loves his family and has started to ask for snuggles at night. :) Sooo adorable!

This pretty little girl is about to turn 9 in a few weeks. She is giving me a run for my money. She loves lip gloss and hair styles...although she rarely styles her own. haha She dressed up as Little Red Riding Hood for their schools literacy parade. She is getting ready to attend her first dance tomorrow night. Her school is sponsoring a Valentine's Dance with pizza, popcorn, and drinks...so she is meeting a few of her friends there. Too cute...and I will be sure to get pictures as I have no doubt her fashionista self will be dressed to the nines. :)
I submitted some work for publication and I am going to keep plugging along at that piece of the scrapbooking industry. :) It's fun!!!

I will be back to share some Little Red Scrapbook news and pages tomorrow.

Have a terrific Thursday everyone!

XO

what a day!

2010-01-09T17:23:00.000-08:00

It has been a really horrible day. I mean, REALLY HORRIBLE. I think I am still in shock at the day that we had in the Wildes household. Oy! It always seems to happen when Andy is out of town and I get no reprieve from the kids and all their FREAKING bickering. Seriously?? Seriously. I had my children 7 years apart, but you would never know it! They "fight" like crazy....one tormenting the other until screeches from the little and laughter from the big is all I hear. Oh. My. Goodness. What a day! I am going to put the older one in her bed and dance neked around my living room. No, not really....but, I should! :)

Can't wait until this day of whines and cries is behind us!

Onto happier times! :) hehe

More Christmas pictures... We always sit down as a family, by the fire, on Christmas Eve and Andy reads the story of Jesus' birth from the Bible aloud. Always such a special time for our family to focus on what we are celebrating!

The stockings were hung all full of treats....

The presents were wrapped and placed with care....

And the kids woke up and stood in wonder as they checked it all out:

I think that picture is my favorite from Christmas day...really. It is. I love how Bayleigh is just standing there looking, but still watching out for her baby brother. And that is just so Layne right now! Bed head. Dragging his lovie everywhere. Standing back to observe. So adorable!! Love, love, love this one! I will cherish it all of my days!

I hope that you had a better day than I. I will be back with more pictures soon!! :) Love to add a little at a time - gives me something to blog about for awhile. heehee

Ohhhhh and check out the kit at Little Red Scrapbook - pure yumminess!! And I plan to indulge myself tonight with it. :)

Until next time...

2010-01-06T06:06:00.000-08:00

Let me just preface this post with this:

I spent most of my morning yesterday in the Emergency Room...not because one of the kids was hurt. No. People have asked. Numerous times. No. I was there because the cutie you see below slammed his head into the bridge of my nose during one of his tantrums and made me see stars. And look like I just fought Ali for the belt. HA! No broken bones, just a contusion and a giant headache. In my nose. It's been quite interesting!

And I am finally back with an update in pictures... YAY!! Jacked up nose and all. :)

We have spent most of our Saturdays cheering on our Gators. And Nana couldn't resist christening Layne with his first Florida hat. :) I have to admit, he is pretty stinking cute!

And we baked cookies....LOTS of cookies. All for Santa of course. *wink* Bayleigh loved helping in the kitchen.

Then, we did the annual trip to the mall to sit with Santa. Someone was not a fan. At all. I mean,

crying, screaming, kicking....you name it, the little man did it in an attempt to escape the grips of the nicest looking Santa I have seen. HA!!! Of course, we had to have a picture. Every child deserves a screaming Santa picture. :) Oh and also note Bayleigh's face - that is her "OH MY STARS, what is HIS problem?!?!?" face. hehe

While we were out visiting Santa, we had an elf intrusion!!! Zack (our elf) brought along some of his comrades and proceeded to trash my kitchen and dining room. Bayleigh was tickled and Layne was enthralled by the mess we found. Too fun!

On Christmas Eve in their new Christmas pajamas and sitting with their present of choice. They each get to open one present on Christmas Eve that they pick from under the tree. Love this picture (even though Bayleigh is squinting). Hey - 2 out of the 3 isn't bad!! :)

We have been busy!!! And there are tons more pictures to come of our Christmas festivities - all 3 of them. :)

I am off to apply more ice to my nose and hope I don't get black eyes!

Enjoy this Wednesday and stay warm!!!

XO
C

where did she go?!?!? :)

2010-01-04T05:50:00.000-08:00

I posted and disappeared again! That is what the holidays will do to you. We went out of town right after Christmas....came home so that Andy and I could work for 3 days....and then went to visit my family down south. The trip home took 4 hours longer than it should have, but we made it!! I am so glad to finally be home for a good long stretch of time....

Here's what we have been up to lately....

A new baby that comes during the day for me to watch. :)

More to come tomorrow.....blogger is being a pain in the toosh!!

Look for my time in pictures tomorrow....hehe

XO
C

chk, chk, chk

2009-12-26T08:12:00.001-08:00

Is this thing on?!?!?!

I know, I know....lots of people wondering if I have fallen off the planet. No, not the planet, just the blogging planet. :) I had to take a much needed break to deal with lots of things going on in my life. LOTS of things. More about all of that later....

But, I am alive and doing very well!! A new lease on life, so to speak. hehe So ready to welcome in a new year and a new "season" of my life.

I hope that you had a very Merry Christmas! We have all been sufficiently and opulently spoiled. :)

I will be back later tonight with a recap of our Christmas and the past 2 months! 2 months?!?!? Really?? Wow...I promise to be better about keeping in touch. :)

Check back in later!

XO

well, boo to you!

2009-10-30T07:26:00.000-07:00

Yay, my favorite time of year has finally arrived!! :) I just love the fall season....it brings cooler temperatures (usually) and lots of fun family times.....including Halloween, pumpkin patches, Thanksgiving, visiting family, and then Christmas! Yay!

Wanted to come and share another layout with you. This one was done with all the Scribble Scrabble papers and my first time using mist. *gasp* Yes, MIST!!! :) Man, those are so fun and addictive! Just love squirting it and watching the color spread across my paper. I guess it feeds the OCD in me. hehe

Featuring Inspired Blueprints Sketch #29.

That is the new birthday themed line by Scribble Scrabble. Really great colors to use for either boy or girl pages. :)

I hope that everyone is getting into the Halloween spirit. We have mass children overload in our neighborhood tomorrow. Bayleigh will be a mermaid and Layne will be a little pumpkin. We are getting excited....going to have a nice cookout and have some friends over...then, hit the pavement and the kids will load up on TOO much candy. Mommy might have to help "alleviate" the candy burden. hee

We are off to the pumpkin patch this afternoon - so that I can get the good photo ops and pick out a good pumpkin for the kids. My favorite!!!

I will be sure to be back with some updated pictures of the kidlets. It's been awhile....

Have a happy Friday!

XO

driving by :)

2009-10-11T22:04:00.000-07:00

So, I have been MIA. AGAIN!!!! Our wonderful, loving, playful kitten *insert snarl* knocked a ceramic house off our mantle and broke our computer screen. That left me without the laptop for about a week and a half now! Of course this happened on the first day that Andy went away for some military duty. It always happens that way.

Thanks to Ebay and a wonderful church friend, our laptop is fixed and I can now breathe a sigh of relief. And feel connected to the world again. hehe

During my hiatus, I have been busy scrapping. I have completed about 11 layouts and 4 cards over the course of 10 days. :) That is HUGE for me. I am such a slow scrapbooker. So, so proud of myself and it feels good to get some stuff done.

Had to come and share my sneaks for the October LRS kit. I had a blast creating my pages and cards this month. :) And of course, I had to get all the beautiful addons to add to my stash and create with this time around. Surprising, huh? *wink*

Enjoy - I will be back soon with the full deal!! YAY!

Until next time...

XO

really?!??! really.

2009-09-29T07:52:00.000-07:00

It's been nearly a month since I posted?!?! Yes, Christie, it has. Time to get over it and get back to posting. heehee

This has been quite a month to say the least. I won't bore you with all the pitiful details...because it seems like we have been swallowed up by the snowball of bad luck. I am hoping that we are finally at the bottom of that hill. HA!

Layne has a little cold, with some coughing and a runny nose. No fun...poor little thing. I am hoping that he starts to feel better soon though! AND that he doesn't pass it on to me. That is the key!! I just can't afford to get sick...

Not much scrapbooking going on here lately. Just been in a slump - I am sure with all of the stuff going on around here it's no wonder. :)
I do want to share a layout that I did for Inspired Blueprints last month though.

All of these papers are from the new Scribble Scrabble Lullaby of Birdland collection!!! LOVE the colors and so happy that I got them to work on this boy page. :)

I am going to go outside and enjoy this nice cool day - finally some fall air! We have been sweating our tooshies off the past few weeks with temps in the 90s - so I am glad to have a breath of fresh, fall air.

Enjoy your day!!

XO

pure chaos!

2009-09-01T12:05:00.000-07:00

Since my last post, pure chaos has erupted in the Wildes home.

* Our little kitten got sick
* Bayleigh started school
* I started watching a new baby
* We have been dealing with some "issues" as a family
* I have been doing a lot of introspection
* Many other things......

I will cover more of all of that later....but, for now, I need to finish with the pictures from our vacation that I never posted.

Without further adieu...

Jumping in off the boat to get cooled off a bit:
Layne and Daddy - this boy LOVES the water - he is such a little fish:
Layne and Mommy on the boat:

My friend Jenn came to visit for a night and got to enjoy some time in the water too:

Getting cleaned off in the spicket outside the cabin - I *will* be using this as blackmail later in his life....GUARANTEED!:
Snack time:
We also enjoyed some s'mores and lots of sun and water!! :) We had a great time and can't wait to go again next year.

Hope that you are all doing well. I will be back tomorrow with some more about what's been up in the past few weeks.

Be sure to head on over to LRS though - the kit is up, along with all the addons. You won't want to miss out on any of it. It arrived on my doorstep and is taunting me right now!! I have a few things to do before I can actually dig in. And I can't wait!

Have a wonderful Tuesday!

XO

getting to it!

2009-08-19T11:17:00.000-07:00

So, I am finally back to update with some vacation pictures from a few weeks ago. :)

I went on a woman's planning retreat for my church, so I wasn't around Friday or Saturday...totally forgot about that! We had a nice time and got lots of new ideas and inspiration for the year ahead. So excited to see what we will be blessed with in the coming year.

Alright, back to vacation....hehe We went to Camp Blanding - which is a Florida National Guard installation just outside of Starke, Florida. They have cabins to rent right on the lake. We always bring our boat and it stays in the water for the entire week that we stay there. It is just fabulous - the nice slow pace, the water, the sun, and the uninterrupted time with family.

This is our view (panoramic):
Heading down to the water:
Bayleigh and Layne in the water (and enjoying their favorite past time PICKING ON each other *rolls eyes*):
Big man in the boat - I love the look on his face as he stands in the bow of the boat - so accomplished and proud (hehe) Too big for his own britches:
My two babies:

I just love this picture of Bayleigh - she looks so grown and beautiful!!! Sun kissed girl:

Their fish from their nightly excursion to the big dock to fish and bond :) :

On the boat, Layne in his favorite place - the live well with water flowing in...teehee:
The hubby and kiddos driving the boat:

I will be back to post more tomorrow!! I didn't want to put you in picture overload. hehe Figured this was enough for one post.... *giggle*

Off to do some more disciplining and refereeing!! Oy, I can't wait until Monday - back to school and our normal routine. *whew*

Have one fabulous day!

Until next time....

XO

the full shebang!

2009-08-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

Thought I would update with all of my August LRS creations! I had soooo much fun with this kit - I'm not gonna lie. That Basic Grey June Bug is drool worthy! And all the wonderful embellishments, stamps, ribbons..... = MAJOR YUM! :)

A layout about Layne's birth day. I hadn't yet done one for the big album! :) Looking at these pictures made me really teary! I can't believe how tiny he was.
Some close ups of my paper rolls:
A layout about the sweet, sweet relationship between my mom and Bayleigh. Just love this picture from the 4th of July. I also did this one for the OLW challenge - "sweet." (and it's being featured as one of their favories right now!! yay!!)
Ahhh, look at these pictures!!!!!! Oh my heart hurts looking at these....this is Bayleigh at about age 2.5. *sigh* She never left home without that "pack pack" when she was this age. Packed to the brim with all sorts of random toys!!
This last layout is just a page documenting how crazy my life was at that moment in time!!! hehe I thought I would be committed - really. I did. Straight jacket, anti-psychotic meds, COMMITTED!! Layne would scream, Bayleigh would screech..oy! So, had to get this one down on paper. I really will miss this one day....not today. But, one day. :)

Look at these handmade flowers by Sara (owner of LRS) - there were 4 in the kit! Sooo pretty.
And lastly, a card set I made.
That's all for now - it's picture overload today!!! :)

I will be back with some recaps and pictures of our vacation.

Enjoy your Thursday!

Until next time...

XO

the new baby in the family...

2009-08-12T06:33:00.001-07:00

So, I promised to share our latest addition with ya'll. Here is Max!

He is a domestic short-haired kitten, who is so sweet and loves to snuggle!! He is 3 months old and we rescued him from the local animal shelter last week. Max is such a sweetie - really, he is!!! He will play with his toys and run around. But, as soon as you pick him up - he is ready to lay in your lap and snuggle. :)

I started back to "work" this week. I am keeping a new little 3 month old baby - baby L. He is so adorable! We are still getting a feel for each other and figuring out some sort of schedule - but it has gone well.

Now I am just ready to send Bayleigh back to school. I am thankful for the time we have had together this summer - but, it's time for school!!! Seriously. She is one of those kids who needs and craves structure - so, school is perfect for her. I think we are both ready!!! haha The crying and whining that just took place is a clear indication. Oy! Over what? A question about where her brother was (?!?!?!?!). No lie!

Layne's new trick - laying down in the bathtub! Both this way and on his tummy - blowing bubbles in the water! He just *loves* the water.

Bayleigh and Layne at Wakulla Springs park. We had a nice picnic lunch and a fun time in the water. Well, the kids and Andy had fun in the water....I only went in up to my ankles. ha! The water is about 68 degrees and that is just too cold for this Florida girl. :)

I will be back again with some new Little Red Scrapbook layouts and cards tomorrow. Can't wait to share those with ya'll.

I am off to do some more refereeing! It might just be a long day....hehe

Until next time...

XO

a little sneaky...

2009-08-09T13:57:00.000-07:00

So, before the design team gallery goes live at Little Red Scrapbook, I thought I would share some sneaks. :)

But, first, a little disclaimer. This is the kit:
I will not be held responsible for any kit purchases, addon purchases, or coveting of these items. This kit is amazing - LOTS and LOTS of great Basic Grey goodies and a little handmade treat from Sara (co-owner of LRS). And the ribbon addon - yeah, you want that. AGAIN. Sara is awesome at creating the best kits - she picks the best embellishments to go with her kits....it's always fun to learn what she has chosen to go with each months kit.

Alright, alright. Enough of my rambling! Just be warned. These sneaks might be seen as enabling!

Be back tomorrow with some new pictures of our latest family addition and some small updates!! It's a busy time here!! :)

Have a nice, lazy Sunday evening!

Until next time...

XO

we are home... :)

2009-07-31T12:53:00.000-07:00

So, we headed off for our family vacation last Friday morning and returned last night. :) We had such a good time hanging out and relaxing. Ahhhh....it was so wonderful. I was sad to see it end because that meant it was back to the real world - paying bills, grocery shopping, laundry, bleck. I even made the comment about that as we were driving to Andy yesterday. He can completely relate. Especially since he had to go back to work this morning. Booooooooo...

Thought I would check in and post my layouts from last month's Little Red Scrapbook kit. I had to double check, but they have not been posted on my blog yet. So.....here they are. And of course I got all of the addons. hehe The ribbon in the ribbon addon is just to die for. Ohhhh I want some more of that green ribbon soooo bad!!! You will see it below.

A page about my grill master hubby!! :) Using up some old, old photos that are horribly taken. hahaha It is so funny to look back on my pictures before I started scrapbooking and using a SLR.

Our trip last summer out to the Gulf scalloping!! We had a blast and it was so fun to watch Bayleigh learn how to do it and thoroughly enjoy herself. We got sooo many scallops!!

Layne at 15 months and all the things he does. He is doing his "1" for me here. When you ask him "how old is Layne?" he does this. Too too cute! (and this is the to die for ribbon here!!)
Just a page documenting the differences between Layne and Bayleigh. :) It is so true - boys and girls are definitely different and develop completely different from one another as well.

So, there you have it. Lots of fun to work with this kit for sure. And now my August kit has arrived and I have lots of work to do. Be sure to check out the homepage tomorrow for the new kit pictures.

Have a happy Friday night!

Until next time...

XO
Christie

ahhhh!!

2009-07-17T12:07:00.000-07:00

So, this might just be my favorite layout from our vacation that I have done! Not because it is all fancy schmancy or contains wonderfully posed pictures....no, not at all. Simply because it expresses how I feel about that entire trip perfectly. It shows where we spent most of our time while we were at the lake. *sigh* I miss the lake!

I am still using the Studio Calico Via Airmail kit. My plan is to use that kit for this entire vacation....and then use the kit from last month for this year's lake vacation! :)
So, I made the mistake of going into Michael's today! I had 5 50% off coupons to use from last weeks purchases! *snicker* Turns out, they are now carrying the American Crafts 3-ring albums!! IN BROWN!! I was so excited I think I squealed a little right there in the aisle. And using a 50% off coupon made them only $10. So, I picked two of those up! I do plan to go back next week with another coupon and get the last one that they had.

They also had lots of new paper pads. Including one by Amy Butler. *swoon* You better believe I snatched that baby up. Along with a KI Memories one and another K and Company one. I feel like I have satisfied my urge - but, hey I spent like $45 on all of that stuff. . I should be good for awhile. Welllllllll....until my next batch of coupons needs to be used. ha!

I am busy loading up some stuff onto Ebay and purging more of my stash. It's such a long process, but it adds some cash to the paypal account which helps with my addon addiction! hehe

Hope you are having a fantastic and wonderful Friday!

Until next time....

XO

sharing!

2009-07-16T10:37:00.000-07:00

Alright, here is the next layout that I have completed from our family vacation. Again, used the Via Airmail kit from Studio Calico. I added the postmarked stamp from one of the addons in there too! I just love ALL of their stamps. *swoon*
I used some red chalk ink to color the ledger Making Memories letters. I thought it added more depth to the title and drew attention to it having them the same color as other elements on my page.

Layne now has a cold, so we are trying to nurse him back to health. I had a feeling this was coming since he was sneezing ALL day yesterday. And sure enough, I picked him up from the nursery and his nose was all runny. Poor thing! He woke up a few times last night....but eventually got comfortable. I am praying that is quick moving and no one else catches it! GO AWAY SICKIES!! :) We have a vacation to enjoy!

I am so excited for my friend Rita. She was chosen to be a Kraft Girl and I could *not* be happier. She is awesome - an amazing artist, but an even more amazing mother to her 3 babies. Yay girl - so happy for you. So well deserved. ((hugs))

I will keep updating with new vacation layouts as I get them done and add them to my album.

Have a great Thursday! :)

Until next time....

XO

next up :)

2009-07-15T09:47:00.001-07:00

Had to come and share another layout I created using the Via Airmail kit from Studio Calico. This is yet another page about our family vacation in 2007. :) This may just be my favorite kit to date because I am in love with the stamp included. I used the frame from the set to create these little journaling boxes. *swoon*

We are just chilling out today before Vacation Bible School. We have been getting to bed late every night and just running crazy! So, a day of nothing is in order.

Yesterday, we spent the morning with Bayleigh's BFF Eden, her mom, and sister. Took the kids to the park, grabbed some lunch, and came home. It is wayyyy hot here right now, so we can only do 30-45 minutes outside before Layne is overheated and needs to come inside. He gets all pink cheeked and sweaty - poor thing! He's just like his daddy - fair skinned! So, he had trouble napping after getting so hot yesterday, which made for a LONG night. Yes, I think a nice big nap is in order for today! Maybe for both of us... *huge grin*

Alright, off to change out some laundry!

Have a wonderful Wednesday. :)

Until next time...

XO

closing it up.. :)

2009-07-14T12:01:00.000-07:00

So, I have been feverishly working on finishing our vacation pictures from 2007. :) I am using an old Making Memories line and it has been so much fun to do. I only have 4 pages left and want to get them done in the next 2 weeks before we go on another family vacation....hahaha

Here's the latest page - using mostly contents from last year's Air Mail Studio Calico kit:
That was our cabin at the lake and the view of our boat from the shore. :) That was *the* best vacation - lots of time to relax and chill out...coming and going as we pleased. Ahhhh...and we head back to this lake in just a week and a half to enjoy some more time on the water. *big huge grin*

Have a fabulous Tuesday....I have a few more pages to share from our vacation...so be sure to check back again tomorrow! (this time I promise! hehe)

Until next time....

XO

and he's home..... :)

2009-07-11T14:14:00.000-07:00

Well, we got home on Tuesday night from traveling down south to see my family. We had a wonderful time and Bayleigh had a blast all week at Lion Country Safari Day Camp! She is already talking about going back again next year. hehe Pool time, feeding animals, and shopping at the gift shop - what more could a girl want?!?!

Once we got back, the pressure was on to finish cleaning the house and get things ready for Andy to come home. Yay for us!!! So, I spent the remainder of the week preparing for his arrival and our Fellowship Baptist crop night - both on Friday night! It was one busy week. I am glad that it is now Saturday and we are past that. For sure!

Andy made it home safe. I won't say sound because he *did* drive 900 miles yesterday. I don't know how he did it....I really don't. Driving is so not my thing. I would rather gauge out my eyes than drive long distances. Seriously. Hate it that much.

So, we are now enjoying a laid back Saturday at home. :) It's so nice.....and I am so thankful that he is home again and I can leave the single motherhood behind until the next Army hoorah.

Thought I would share some Little Red Scrapbook sweetness! This is the kit:And oh man, was it so fun to work with. I was very worried (yet again?!!? notice a trend??). But, it came together so easily. I did most of my work while away at my mom's on vacation. :) And for me that is rare! I have a hard time being creative away from my "stock." *grin*

You must stop on by and check out the entire kit - because all of the addons are great and the ribbon is TO DIE FOR!! Delish! :) You must get that ribbon - I am thinking about getting another one to have!! That's how good it is. The addon paper is perfect for all of your summer pictures.

Be back tomorrow with a new layout to share!! Enjoy your Saturday!!

Until then....

XO

summer lovin'

2009-06-24T10:10:00.000-07:00

I just love the summertime - the freedom to sleep in, stay in your pj's all day if you want, and just have a generally lazy day. That is what I am doing today..... :) Oh and finish up a few layouts, so that I can start on some assignments.

Bayleigh is now home safe and sound! And she is off to VBS at another church this morning and then to go play at her friends house until our church time tonight!

Layne is feeling much better finally and enjoying time outside. He is especially loving his new ride! hehe Look at that little man in there. :)
I got my July Little Red Scrapbook kit and it is soooooo delicious!!! I can't wait to finish up what I need to do, so that I can start working with it. You will have to check it out come July 1st - the full reveal is on the main site then.

Happy Wednesday! Off to get some stuff done around here....

Until next time.....

XO

told you so! :)

2009-06-22T06:02:00.000-07:00

So, remember how I said things were going smoothly?!?!? hahaha I had this funny feeling that I would get tested in all sorts of ways because I had to go and say that. Sure enough, chaos happened.

Layne was sick with some sort of tummy bug yesterday. We were all ready for church....I was dressed, makeup on, hair done, shoes on, bags packed......he was all dressed, fed, shoes on.....when it all came crashing down. I picked up the bags to go load them in the car....and out it came. All over the carpet. All over himself. All over the sink in the bathroom. Just all over. It was nasty! I don't do well with the whole puking thing. At. All. So, we spent the day yesterday just chilling out. I changed my clothes, cleaned up the puke, and carried on. LOL He is much better this morning and ate a full breakfast and kept it down. Hooray!

*sigh* We are off to find a little car for him to ride in. I always wanted to get one for my kids and now I am just going to do it!! :) He is going to love it!! I think I am more excited than he will be. hehe

Hope that everyone is having a great Monday!

I will leave you with a layout for Inspired Blueprints. This is for sketch #24. This is my last sketch for the design team there - as they had a call for new designers. *sniff, sniff* I reapplied, so we shall see. I just loved working for them. :)

Enjoy and stay cool!!!

Until next time....

XO

checking in :)

2009-06-17T12:43:00.000-07:00

Thought I better check in here, so ya'll wouldn't think I have committed myself since Andy's departure. hehe I have been *this* close, but I am hanging in there. The first few days/week is always hard...but, we are getting our groove down and it's going much more smoothly now.

Sidenote: Lord, I am not asking you to test the smoothness of things. At all. I know how lucky I am. I really really do. So please don't choose this area to test me at this moment. Just sayin. Wanted to lay it all out there. It always seems to go that way. Always. hehe

We have been hanging out, just the little man and I, this week. Bayleigh went off to her grandma and grandpa's house in Fernandina Beach. So, we are just kicking it here! Hoping to get some quiet time to myself tonight after he is in bed to catch up on some scrapbooking.

Have to share my layouts for Little Red Scrapbook! Oh my word, this kit was unbelievably fun to work with. I used it for all kinds of pages - boy, deployment, manly man, and sibling stuff. :) It really is *that* versatile. Go get one for yourself - you won't be sorry. And I had to add the ribbon and embellishment addon too! Check out my pages:
And my cards:

It's so incredibly hot here. We stay inside most of the afternoon!! It's been 100 degrees. For real. Poor Layne has his Daddy's fair complexion and turns bright red when he gets hot. I know he is fine - but it still just doesn't look right.

In fact, the 17 year old lifeguard at the pool yesterday thought he should inform me that his arms were getting red. He also mentioned that I might want to put sunscreen on him. Seriously? Seriously. Dude! You do not say that to people. It is not in your contract to be a pseudo parent while holding your whistle and flotation device. I promise that I am a mother who takes care of her children - and that includes lathering them with sunscreen before going to the pool. However, I did gob a bunch of sunscreen on his arms after that. I put it so thick, in fact, that his arms were completely white. Think I proved my point? HA! Probably just to myself.

Alright, back to cleaning out the garage. I am trying to surprise Andy when he gets home. With actually parking in our garage. It's a win win for us both. :)

Until next time...

XO

quiet today...

2009-06-11T16:03:00.000-07:00

Not much to share today. It's been a long sad day for me....this morning we said goodbye to Andy. He is going to be in Missouri for a month for his final phase of BNCOC school. It was a rough morning. I am keeping my chin up and looking on the bright side - it's only *1* month and not multiple months. :)

I did want to share some sneaks for Little Red Scrapbook's June kit. Ya'll have to run on over and see it - all beautiful new Pink Paislee Captivating line. I wasn't sure how it would be to work with this kit. But, man, I had a blast with this kit!! It was so much fun....be sure to check for the design team reveal coming soon!

Oh and you can win one over that Pink Paislee blog...so go post a comment on their blog to get in on that!

Here's the fabulous kit:
And here are some peeks:

I will be back soon when I have more to say! Sorry I am so quiet today...promise more chatter soon. :)

Until then...

XO

So, yeah, ummmmm....

2009-06-05T11:43:00.001-07:00

What happened to "be back soon?" I bet that is what you are asking, right??

I can't believe that I haven't been back since that last drive by post! So sorry about that. It seems as though the end of the year rush and beginning of summer have swept me away. I was tied up with so much stuff the past few weeks. But, it is now officially SUMMER!! Wooo hooo!! I am so thankful to have just my own children here with me all day, go to sleep when I want, and rise when I want (relatively speaking). :) This is my favorite time of year....

I have some Scrappin' Supply Shack layouts to share with you all. I apologize for not getting them up here until now. Heck, I thought I had put them on Flickr this week and come to find out - didn't do that either. Ugh, where has my brain gone?? I hope it returns soon.....with my creativity in tow.

Here are my pages using the new Basic Grey Wisteria line - with some fun Maya Road acrylics and extras!! The purple really challenged me this month, but I am pretty happy with what I came up with.

A page about the things that Bayleigh enjoys at age 8! :)

A page talking about how my little Layne has brought me out of some of my funks. How he can cheer me up no matter what!!
A page documenting the 3 most loathed edible things for me. Ewww and yuck!! The title was inspired by the beautiful chipboard tea cups in the kit. :) Figured I had to get this documented in my book of me, right??
And finally a page documenting how smitten all the men in our family are with their first grandson. Especially great grandpa Wildes. This picture is one of only about 3 I have of him and Layne together. Love it!! And love those acrylic keys and lock in the kit.
I went a little nutso with the scallop border punch on that last one!! hehe But, it was so fun!!

We are enjoying a low key day today. I went to Target after Layne's doctor's appointment this morning and I think I finally found a bathing suit!! WOOO HOOO - it's hard to find something flattering for my after 2 children body. AND it was on clearance. SCORE!!

I promise to be back this weekend with some more updates. *grin*

Until then.....

XO

Drive by...

2009-05-29T23:12:00.000-07:00

Okay, I am dog tired from the running around today! I have been on the go since my feet hit the ground this morning. But, I promised sneaks, so sneaks there shall be!!!

Here are some sneaks from the Scrappin' Supply Shack's May kit. Yumm-o!! :) Lots of goodies and fun new stuff in this one. Be sure to head over and check it out. Heck, you might even win a guest designer spot!

More will follow soon enough!! :) I am still cracking away with this kit - hoping to get some more done with it tomorrow afternoon.

I am headed to bed to crash....since I have a VBS planning meeting tomorrow morning. Gotta love 9 am Baptist meetings on a Saturday morning. *chuckle*

I will be back with some layouts that I would love to share with ya'll.

Until then....

XO

Reflective...

2009-05-26T10:54:00.000-07:00

So, it has been a reflective few days for me. We bid farewell to the fine men and women of the 779th Engineer Battalion from Tallahassee on Tuesday. Oh man, so incredibly hard. It took all those emotions from a few years ago and rubbed me raw. Watching those wives, babies, parents, children....oh man, it was heartbreaking and gut wrenching. *sigh*

I have just been taking a few days to reflect and remember and just be still. To cherish the time that we have Andy here...and enjoy my babies before they are too big to want to be around me. Snuggling the little man in the mornings and kissing the big girl at night. :)

We went to Andy's parents' last weekend. We got to do lots of this:

The little guys first trip to the beach. And he loved it. Undeterred by the waves and sand - he loved it all. I swear this child has no fear. :)

I am so excited to share some sneaks with you tomorrow from Scrappin' Supply Shack. I have to upload the pictures tomorrow. Some yummy goodies that I am still playing with!! Lots of fun Basic Grey!

I have lots of layouts to share...so be ready in the coming days!! I had to upgrade my Picasa album to include more pictures, so that is why there has been a delay with posting and picture loading. It took awhile to get it fixed. But, I AM BACK!!! So, be prepared for the picture and layout overload!!

I am off to bed....big day tomorrow!! We are having another crop at Fellowship!! :) I need to get up and work on the kits tomorrow....so, that means that I have to get rest tonight! The potato salad is made and the cake is baked and iced. A better start than I did last month! haha

Hope you all have a great one! Be back tomorrow with some sneakages.

Until then...

XO

It's alive!! :)

2009-05-07T07:16:00.000-07:00

My computer, that is! I had to send it in to the manufacturer because we were having some major issues with it. No power being the main complaint. Minor detail, huh?? *grin* It was mailed out and fixed by Acer and now she is back home with mama. My how I have missed her. hehe

Besides the computer issue, we have been dealing with a round of the sickies. First it was Bayleigh, who proceeded to hack and sneeze all over everyone and everything in the house. So, it was no big surprise that Andy and I both came down with it. Unfortunately, his was life threatening. *rolls eyes* Seriously? How can we have the same cold, but he is on death's door and I am still cooking, cleaning, and caring for children? Seriously. Men. Big, ole babies.

Now that we are feeling most of the way better, I am feeling like my house has been lost to the dust bunnies and laundry rats. ha! I have tackled most of it already and am working on the laundry part today! Fun times, I tell ya!

I am finishing up some layouts for the class that I am teaching on Friday night at church. Have to go pick up pictures in a little bit....nothing like last minute! *smile*

I do have some layouts to share using the May Scrapbooking Supply Shack's kit. A combination of Dream Street and Scribble Scrabble papers were sooo much fun to work with. :) There is one page that I won't be able to share until the Inspired Blueprints reveal! So, be on the lookout for that one in the coming week.

Remember to click on the images to see them larger. :) I love the picture in that last page with Great-Grandma Thomas - who has since passed on. Love that we have lots of pictures with her and Bayleigh when we still had her here.

Hope that your Thursday is great! We have a very busy evening of getting glasses repaired and a school play. Add that to being a single mama for the next 2 weeks and I will be ready to settle down with Grey's tonight. For sure.

Until next time...

Sneaky girl!

2009-04-16T06:38:00.000-07:00

So, things got crazy towards the end of last week - Andy announced that he had Friday-Tuesday off. I spent alot of time with him because we don't get those chances too often! He works really hard is often gone to wherever the Army sends him. So, we got to spend some time together! But, I will say, I was glad when Wednesday rolled around and he went back to work. I like my routine and I felt like I was tripping over toys and people for the past 5 days! haha I love him, I really do. I also love my space. 'Nuff said.

It was hard to get my Little Red Scrapbook designs done with him and the kids underfoot. But, I finished and got them in yesterday. I will share some peeks with you!

Loved this kit. LOVED it! And I have several more layouts worked up in my brain that I will work on at the crop tomorrow night! And one more thing - sign up NOW! You do not want to miss out on what is coming up at LRS. May's kit is too die for.....and you will all want it, I promise. So, go sign up, so you have yours set aside and don't miss out!

I was given an award by my LRS friend, Carla. Thanks sweetie!

Here are the rules:
1. The winner may put the logo on their blog.
2. Put a link to the person who sent you the award.
3. Nominate 10 blogs.
4. Put links to their blogs.
5. Leave a message for your nominees.

And here are my nominee's!
1. Kristii - super fabulous God-fearing woman!
2. Stephanie H. - a fellow Army wife soul and a creative genius
3. Lisa - wonderful friend and awesome scrapbooker
4. Rita - love this girl...her work is awesome and she is a sweet, sweet soul
5. Heather - soul sistah, she is the best
6. Scarlet - wonderful SC co-owner
7. Anna-Marie - love, love, love her! she is a sweet girl and such a fabulous friend
8. Christy - fellow IB designer and such a wonderful Christian woman who is going through a rough time right now - love you girl!
9. Nikki - another fellow LRS dt girl, with some uber talent
10. Lyn - this girl rocks the SC kits

Will be back with some pictures from Easter....I have already scrapped one of them!! hehe It's on one of those peek layouts! *grin*

Oh and tomorrow night is the crop at Fellowship - be there or be square. I have had some bail outs, so I have a kit or two if you are needing one! And I am making homemade lasagna for dinner....mmmmmmm!! If the food doesn't get you there, then you aren't normal! haha

Until next time....

XO

back into the swing..

2009-04-07T11:39:00.000-07:00

Well, at least I am trying to!! I think I have typed this post at least 3 times and have yet to publish it. LOL This has been a busy week!

We are getting ready for Easter weekend.....a tee-ball game, an egg hunt at church, church, and a nice big Easter lunch. :) I love Easter - it's just about my favorite holiday next to Christmas. I love what we celebrate - the death and resurrection of Jesus and what that means for nations everywhere!

I am preparing kits for the first Fellowship Baptist crop on Friday. Lots of fun goodies included - brand new Stampin' Up paper and embellishments. Can't wait to show you all the layouts. :)

I am also working on finishing up my design team projects for Little Red Scrapbook. Just look at this fun kit!
Ohhh so fun to work with. Some sneaks will be up next week from me.

And finally a layout for Inspired Blueprints. We are having a sketch blowout!!! There are 8 new sketches for April - one completed by each designer! :) This is sketch #16 by Sara.

All contents used are from the Kenner Road January kit. If you haven't checked out Kenner Road - GO!!! Fabulous kits with lots of new products and vintage goodies. I have used just about every piece of this kit and have one more layout to post with their yummies. :) Check it out!

And finally, a few pictures of the kids. From our one day of nice weather during spring break - we went to the park and had a blast! Layne's first time on the swings and he giggled with every push. The harder you pushed him the the harder he laughed. :) He is definitely all boy!

And check out Scrappin' Supply Shack - they have a guest designer call and it could be you! You could be designing with one of the fabulous May kits! So, head on over to the boards and check it out. :)

I have blabbed enough for today.....hehe

Until next time...

XO

Lots of news!!

2009-04-01T13:00:00.000-07:00

So, first thing's first. I need to show ya'll my cards made with the fabulous April SNSS card kit. Lots of fun My Little Shoebox paper and Maya Road goodies in there. :) I had a fun time working with my first ever card kit!

Here are my cards:

The card kit includes 8 Bazzill textured cards in 2 colors, a Maya Road sheer, stamp set and chipboard set, 2 yards of American Crafts ribbon, some Bazzill flowers, lots of buttons, and 4-5 sheets of paper. So great - and you can definitely make some layouts with it.

Some other news to share too! Cynthia over at Scribble Scrabble had asked me a couple of months back to do a layout or two with their products as a guest designer. Well, I received an email yesterday from sweet Cynthia asking me to permanently join their fabulous design team! I am beyond thrilled!!!!!!!! So, be sure to check back for some more layouts with their product. And a giveaway coming soon. :)

Alright, enough from me today! haha Have a great night....be back again soon with some pictures.

Until next time...

XO

So sneaky!

2009-03-30T19:16:00.000-07:00

We had a nice weekend here. We headed down to Ocala for my little brother's state fire college graduation. I was so proud of him!! :) He has worked so hard for the past 3 months and it all paid off this weekend. I will share some pictures tomorrow! Lots of family there to help celebrate!

My in-laws came for the weekend and we had an enjoyable time! Bayleigh got a new Crayola camcorder for her birthday - so she is in hog heaven. I don't think that she put that thing down the entire weekend. hehe And with the added memory card - 80 minutes of film. Oh boy are we in trouble! The drama queen officially has a stage! *grin*

We are on spring break this week and just enjoying our time. Today we stayed in our pj's all day, watched some movies, and baked some cookies. Lovely day if I do say so myself! Tomorrow is errand day - so we will head out mid-morning to get a few things done. :)

Had to make sure to pop in with some sneaks for Scrap'n Supply Shack. I got to work with the card kit and had a blast with it!!!! :) So, here are some sneaks - the full shebang will be up in a few days!
Be sure to check it out! The kit should be going live very soon! Fun stuff for sure. :)

Alright, off to get some scrapbooking in. I love spring break - I get to stay up late!!! And lounge around. Well, as long as my children play along. *smile*

Until next time....

XO

busy

2009-03-25T05:59:00.000-07:00

We were so busy yesterday! I don't like days like that. We had an appointment for Layne's 1 year check-up in the morning. Then, we went to Target to pick up a few things (since it is right next door!!!). I grabbed lunch on the way home and put the boys to bed when I got here. I tidied the house for a few before getting ready for my dentist appointment. Ran home afterwards and got ready for Bayleigh's first teeball/softball game. Oy...it was soooooo busy!

So, I have declared today "chill out day." We need a day to catch our breath because the rest of the week is just as busy.

Layne is coughing and sneezing all over the place. I am not sure if it is his sister's ickies or if the pollen is wreaking havoc on him. Man, it is just sooo bad right now. We need rain really bad to wash some of this pollen away for sure. The cars and driveway are covered with yellow pollen....shoot, who am I kidding!?!? It is *ALL* covered with pollen.

Have a layout to share with you. It's sketch #12 from Inspired Blueprints.

All of the paper, die cuts, and journaling punch out is from Scribble Scrabble. Just *LOVE* their new lines. The above page uses Ruth's collection. I am working on another page with some more of their goodies. :) You have to check them out. Tell your lss to get it in because it is just fabulous. You will love it immediately! I still can't decide which line is my favorite.

Enjoy your Tuesday....I am off to wipe more snotty noses. Come on Mother Nature, give me some rain!!! We need relief!

Until next time....

XO

it's about time, huh??

2009-03-23T10:28:00.000-07:00

Well, we are still alive over here at the Wildes house. hehe Things were hectic the past few weekends with birthday party's and then I left for a woman's retreat - where I was teaching a class on scrapbooking! So, lots of prep had to go into that and into getting my family ready for me to be gone. LOL I think Bayleigh asked me 4 or 5 times to pray for her while I was gone....too funny! She's smarter than Andy knows. *grin*

The scrapbook class was a *huge* success. Even more than I could have imagined or planned for. The interest was huge and so I am leading the scrapbooking department at Fellowship Baptist Church. hahaha Okay, it's not a department really, but I am guessing it might need a committee soon. Right, MTM and APC?? *wink*

On April 17th, I am starting our Crop Til You Drop cropping times. They will happen once a month and are for people who are just beginning and people who have been doing it for years. If you are interested in coming, please email me!! :) It will start at 6pm and will go until the last man is standing. hehe Dinner and general supplies are included in your $10 fee and kits are available for purchase if you need it. I am so excited and I just know that we are going to have an awesome turnout and will only get bigger and better. Space is limited due to location, so please email soon!

On to the good stuff....Little Red Scrapbook pages. The reveal went up last week, but I haven't had time to get my act together to post them. So, here they are!! Lots of fun Homegrown stuff by 3 bugs in a rug. :)

So much fun to work with this kit for sure. I even tried my hand at a 6x12 page!! And April's kit will knock your socks off!!! :)

Hope that your Monday is going well. I am down 1/2 an inch around the waist since starting to workout 2 weeks ago, so that makes me smile. Progress is always encouraging!

Until next time..... (which won't be nearly as long!!)

XO

finally...

2009-03-12T06:22:00.000-07:00

We are finally better around here. Layne was cutting 3 teeth. Then he got a touch of RSV, which we had to have treated and monitored. For 3 or 4 days, he didn't eat. He maybe had a total of 4 ounces over the those days. Poor baby! But, now he is making up for lost time and eating me out of house and home.

I am getting ready to hit the road this weekend for a woman's retreat on St. George Island with my church girls. I am actually teaching a scrapbooking class, so I will be busy prepping for that today. I will share the project I have planned when I return. :)

As promised, I am going to share some layouts that I have done in the past couple of months, but haven't shared. Bad bad girl!! hehe

Inspired Blueprints sketch #10 - using the Kenner Road kit from last month (which is DIVINE):
Inspired Blueprints sketch #11 - using the add on papers from February's Little Red kit:
There are just so many great sketches. And we have a great surprise in store for April, so be sure to check it out. You won't want to miss out on any of it! :)

And finally here are some sneaks for March's Little Red Scrapbook kit. This line by 3 bugs was featured as an editor's favorite in the newest edition of Scrapbooks, Etc. (by BH&G). You don't want to miss out!

I got a page done with some of the fabulous new Scribble Scrabble, but can't share just yet! Their new lines are just so delish - run, don't walk, to your lss and tell them that you must have this new stuff. :) You will not be disappointed.

Off to work on my project kits for the weekend. Enjoy your Thursday!

Until next time...

XO

punked...

2009-03-04T06:58:00.000-08:00

So I can finally share these pictures from my 30th birthday punking by my friends. Aren't they the best?!?! The picture in my post before was showing the 380+ forks in my yard. haha

The mailbox that greeted me when I came home from dinner:
My car was filled with crumpled newspaper and balloons!
The street with my "old" driveway:
The number 30 in forks under our tire swing:
Our front porch:

My mug in front of the door:The sign with everyone's siggies on it. :) Yes, they left evidence of who was involved. hehe
Making my mad face! hahahaha Don't buy it for a minute.

Such fun!!

Gonna share some pictures of birrthday weekend. Here was Layne's treat - a rib!! haha Look at that boy gnawing on the bone....typical boy huh?? He loved it and didn't want to give it up when it was time for bath. He had a conniption - arching his back and screaming!! haha (which seems to be a new trend in the Wildes household lately *eye roll*)
And here's Miss Bayleigh with her new night clothes with her fun painted nails. Her Nellie (American Girl) doll has matching pjs. She was so excited to get these - as Nellie is now retired as are all of her things. :) So she was beyond thrilled when my mom gave her this set for her birthday. Oh and her new headband that she used her Claire's gift card on! (Thanks MTM!)
How's that for picture overload. :)

Check back tomorrow for some fun new layouts. I have been slacking on posting them - so I am way overdue and behind.

Until then...

XO

The cookies have left the building...

2009-03-03T20:00:00.000-08:00

So, it's Girl Scout cookie time. Yes, indeed. Our garage was overloaded with cookies that needed to be delivered. Let me just say that I am now 95% done and I could not be happier! LOL I will be glad when those things are out of my house for sure. Be gone with them!

Some other news - I have started working out again. FINALLY! It has been months since I last worked out. But, I had to start somewhere right?!?!? So, I used that On Demand that I pay for every month and did a workout video with Jillian from the Biggest Loser. Two days in a row! YAY me. That's a good start. My goal is to workout at least 5 days this week. Start small and grow is my mantra. Yeah, it has to be because this is totally kicking my butt!

I owe pictures from my 30th birthday punk. So, here they are. The one picture I showed last time was of the 350+ forks all stuck in my yard. hahaha But, apparently blogger isn't going to cooperate for pictures tonight.

The little man is now 1. He uses his little lion push toy to walk around the house and just sticks his chin out waiting for someone to look at him. When you do, he starts babbling and grinning - just so proud of himself. I will try to take a picture tomorrow. Although I am sure it won't be the greatest since he is in constant motion.

Off to finish up a layout with the new Scribble Scrabble. Oh man, this stuff is delish! I can't wait to share this page with ya'll. Look for it on the Scribble blog soon. Check out their new lines...because I have a hard time choosing only one as my favorite! :)

Have a good one...I will try to get those pictures up tomorrow.

Until then...

XO

What a weekend!

2009-02-24T06:29:00.000-08:00

This weekend we had what we call "birthday weekend." You see, Bayleigh and I celebrate our birthdays back-to-back. Mine is the 22nd and hers the 23rd. So, this was birthday weekend. My mom always comes to celebrate with us and we enjoy our time together!

Saturday, we celebrated Bayleigh's birthday at Fun Station. She had a blast and I enjoyed watching her have a great time celebrating with her friends.Even Daddy joined in on the bumper boat fun! :)

We went out to dinner on Saturday night. Which was an ordeal because I pitched a fit about going on Saturday. I wanted to go on Sunday. Can you see me stomping my feet??? But, Andy insisted that we go on Saturday night. When we got home, I realized why. My girlfriends came and punked me...hahahaha I laughed sooo hard when we pulled up and I saw our yard! I have some pictures, but need to upload the rest. I will leave you with one of part of what they did. So so funny!

And one of the little man in his new shoes and almost walking!

Sorry for the picture overload, but it was a great weekend with lots of pictures and fun! :)

I have some exciting news to share too!!! I was asked to be a part of Scrap'n Supply Shack's creative team!! Wooo hooo....and their March kit is looking so yummy, I might just have to buy it!! Lots of fun spring product and colors! So, hop on over and check it out. The new kit should be up on the 28th! :)

Enjoy your day!

Until next time...

XO

Mini :)

2009-02-18T11:01:00.000-08:00

Thought I would share my mini. All of these pages were made with the February Little Red Scrapbook kit. All I used was the journaling cards that came in the kit!! They are the perfect size for a mini. Check them out. I have a few leftover and I plan to make another page with them.

This is an album about my word this year: focus. I want to focus more on my relationships with my babies and hubby. Spending more time on the little things - the things that make *them* happy. :) It was fun and only took me about 2 hours to pump this one out!

In other news, my fridge is driving me nuts. The freezer is not keeping foods frozen all the way. I had baby J's dad come and look at it this morning and he might have solved it. Just have to clean behind the fridge and clean out the bottom...and maybe it will be back to 100%. *sigh* I hate stuff like this!!

Alright, off to resume cleaning my house in preparation for my moms visit this weekend.

Thanks for all the pre-birthday wishes. I know 30 isn't that bad, it's just weird to think that I won't be saying teen or twenty-something anymore. If that makes sense!! haha A sort of mid-mid-life crisis!!

Hope to post some pictures tomorrow.

In the meantime, pray for Steph H....her hubby is on his way home for R and R from Afghanistan!! So excited for her and her babies!!

Until next time....

XO

Little Red....

2009-02-16T20:56:00.000-08:00

Had to come and update with my Little Red Scrapbook layouts for this month. TONS of yummy goodies in this kit!! I'm going to be honest and tell ya that I was terrified when I saw this kit. But, oh my word, I had so much fun with it once I started creating. I even made a mini album. :)

Without further ado...

I will post my mini tomorrow since there are like 7 pages! :) It was so fun and easy to create. If I can do it, anyone can.

We had a busy day....spending our tax refund money. LOL We went and ordered a new front door - so there goes almost all of that money. haha Oh the joys of being a grown up. But, I am super excited about this new front door. I guess that's a sign of getting old.

Speaking of getting old, I am having a tough time realizing that next Sunday I will be 30. Yes, 30! *sigh*

Alright, gotta head to bed...I am completely tired today!

I will be sure to update with the mini tomorrow!

Until then....

XO

Freedom!!!!

2009-02-14T06:47:00.000-08:00

hahahaha FREEEEEEEDOOOOMMMMMMM!!!!!!!

So, Bayleigh had a lock-in at church last night. It was a nice break for me!! You see, she has been testing the very limits of my sanity lately. I don't know what it is. I love her dearly, but she knows just how to get my goat. Every. Single. Time. Oy - maybe we are hitting the tween years a tad early?!?!? Maybe the hormones have already started a tad?!?! I have no idea. But, this mama is wore out from the mood swings and drama!

Now you can see why last night was so wonderful. I got a little bit of a break. I picked her up this morning and drove her to Girl Scouts and they are attending an activity at Lowe's and then we have to pick up cookies this afternoon. :) YAY ME!!

Along with Bayleigh being gone today, Andy left this morning for Daytona. He is going to the races this weekend with his Dad. At first, I was not pleased. At. All. I did not want to have more time by myself with the kids. I mean, he's an Army soldier, isn't that time away enough?!?!? But, I am so happy now. I get peace! I can do whatever I want and wear whatever I want. haha

Anyways, I am here by myself and loving every minute. Layne is sleeping right now...so I am enjoying a cup of coffee and surfing the net. Ohhhhh, pure bliss!!! No one asking me 500 questions in the span of 6 minutes. No one turning the tv up way too loud. No one asking where something is. Pure. bliss.

I am going to enjoy it while it lasts. :)

Just thought I would add some pictures before I head to my scrap table! These are all from last Sunday after church. :)
**DISCLAIMER** Please excuse the messy house - these were not edited at all.. haha

I will update tomorrow with my creations for Little Red Scrapbook. Oh and just so you know - that Webster's Pages stuff was absolutely divine to work with. Yumm-o!! And the trims were just delicious. I got all the addons!! So so glad I did. I am going to use the addon papers today!! Be sure to check back tomorrow for my layouts and projects - including a fun mini-album that I created in just about 2 hours!

Enjoy your Saturday!

Until tomorrow...

XO

sneakaroni!

2009-02-11T13:08:00.000-08:00

I promised to come and share some sneaks from the February Little Red Scrapbook kit. So, here they are. :) It was a really pretty kit to work with and I can't wait for the big reveal!!

So, that's about it around here. I am suffering from a bad case of the blahs!!! It doesn't help that yesterday was a really bad day. No - worse!!! It was a horrible, no good, very bad day!!! Ugh.....I am still recovering from that one. To sum it up, I was wandering the isles of Winn Dixie at 8:30 after putting Layne in bed because I needed to get out of the house and away from everyone! haha What does *that* tell you?!?!

I have to shower and prepare the lesson for tonight at church....so I have to run. Just wanted to be sure and share those sneaks!

Have a fabulous evening!

Until next time...

XO

sniffle, sniffle

2009-02-10T06:10:00.001-08:00

I am feeling a whole lot better!!! But, I still sniffle all the time. Which means I am on the couch. You see, my loving husband can't sleep with a sniffler. He can, in fact, snore, but he can't sleep with someone who has the sniffles. **rolls eyes** I am so over this lingering cold already!

At least it has warmed up quite a bit here. It is supposed to be in the low 70s today, which is just glorious after the weather in the teens last week. The sun will be shining and I am hoping to take the boys outside for a picnic to play.

I have some assignments to finish up with this beautiful kit:This cold has kicked my butt, so I have fallen behind on my assignments. Oh well, happy creating to me today!! :) I should have some peeks for you tomorrow.

Here's a peek at my day-to-day. haha Layne is a mess!! He pulls up on anything that sits still for more than 2 minutes. And this means baby J. And just look at that bedhead!!! **giggle**Poor baby J. Although now he is joining in the tug of war battles over toys. It's so cute to watch - they just grin and blow raspberries at each other.

Tune in tomorrow for some sneak LRS peeks.

Have a terrific Tuesday!!

Until tomorrow....

XO

Thursday musings....

2009-02-05T11:10:00.001-08:00

I guess the lack of sleep and the cold weather have caught up with me today!! I have a runny nose and the sneezes. I have been on the couch today trying to relax between playing and feeding babies!

I think I am addicted to crime and drama!! No, not in real life. *smile* I have been watching First 48 all day!! haha It's such a good show...and since I have seen just about every CSI, it's good stuff. A little morbid, but interesting nonetheless.

Just have to say this - it's frapping freezing outside!!! Brrrrr....it's supposed to warm up this weekend, so I am hoping that this cold doesn't last. And I have tons of stuff to get done (of course!).

My lovely hubby made some pecan butter for use with dinner last night. HOWEVER, I enjoyed using it this morning on some freshly made pancakes. Oh yummm, so good!! I will have to give him a big wet kiss when he gets home for that yummy concoction. And I will have to apologize for rolling my eyes at him while he made the other day! *grin*

Wanted to leave you with this layout. Made with some Scarlet Lime goodies! That's the last of my July kit. :) Oh and a little bit of Studio Calico mixed in.Love my Martha Stewart border punches too!!

Alright, back to more rest. Hope ya'll are still staying warm!!

Until next time...

XO

Bad groundhog!!

2009-02-04T06:22:00.000-08:00

So, I guess we were told that it would be 6 more weeks of winter. Well, it didn't take Mother Nature long to get the message! It is 30 degrees out this morning and the winds are gusting at about 30 mph - so they said the wind chill makes it feel like 18. Seriously? This is Florida people. If it's going to be this cold - GIVE ME SNOW!! haha

The honor roll assembly went much more smoothly last night and I am so glad. :) I guess my obsessive organization helped. My husband would be so thankful that I am using it outside of our home. ha!

I am very excited that I pre-ordered some great products from CHA. I know doing a pre-order doesn't matter and that stores get it all at the same time...but, I hate thinking that I will miss out and there are some things that I just know I will want to get. Stop and Scrap has wonderful pre-orders and awesome customer service!! Right now there are alot of pre-orders on sale for 10% through 2/5. Get over there and check them out!! Love that place and love that you earn rewards for every single dollar you spend too. :)

Gonna share a layout I finished last week and have yet to upload. It's using the fabulous Scarlet Lime mini kit from a while back. My last little scraps from that mini kit. hehe Totally inspired by Valerie Salmon - just love her work!!

Hope you are staying warm today! Will be back tomorrow with some new pictures.

Until then....

XO

More, more, more

2009-02-03T05:49:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I taught Layne the sign for more as I mentioned in my last post. And now he uses it. All. the. time. As soon as he gets in his highchair - "more." When he wakes up from his nap - "more." As soon as he has one bite in his mouth - "more." When he doesn't want to take his nap and he is sitting in his crib - "more."
Exhibit A:
And when he doesn't get "more" immediately....he frantically signs "more, more, more." And starts scrunching up his face and crying.
Exhibit B:

Oy...what a boy he is!! He is certainly very different than his sister when she was his age. He is very mischievous.....and has a head of steel. I swear he bumps his head 15 times a day - so much so, it no longer phases him. Bumps and bruises?? No big deal. haha Definitely not the drama of his sister.

I am on honor roll duty and have to get the packets ready for tonight...so, I will be busy doing that. Oh fun times. At least it's only once a 9 weeks, right?!?!

My challenge today is to create a layout WITHOUT kraft cardstock as it's base. Think I can do it?!?! LOL I really need to try something different - so that is the challenge to myself today.

There is a new sketch up at Inspired Blueprints - so go check it out!! My layout won't go up until sometime next week, but this sketch is awesome!! I love being a part of the wonderful inspiration there.

Gonna leave you with a few pictures...not the best quality, but just had to share!
smiling at his big sister:
look at the drool - think we are teething?
layne and his big sister - we can't get him to sit still for pictures anymore:
look at this proud daddy:

Until next time....

XO

Only 9 am?!?!

2009-01-30T06:50:00.000-08:00

Let's see... Today I have already:
* unloaded dishwasher
* loaded dishwasher
* bundled up babies
* loaded babies in car
* drove to school
* unloaded babies
* opened and closed the school store
* drove home to get Bayleigh her glasses *rolls eyes*
* drove back to school
* drank my white chocolate mocha *swoon*
* dropped by the bank
* fed 2 babies
* loaded more dishes in the dishwasher

Man, busy day already. But, that's about it for me today as far as running around goes. I knew that I wouldn't go back out in the cold once I got home - so I did my bank run this morning. *smile*

Mostly housework for me today - laundry, vacuuming, mopping, etc. Fun times! Oh and some scrapbooking in there too. YAY for mojo returning!!! :)

Had to share my proud mommy moment - baby Layne signed "more" for the first time on his own yesterday! Wooo hoooo - now he signs it all the time when he is done with his baby food. heehee *smile* You see, I am a trained speech pathologist. I know that babies receptively understand more than they can expressively relay at this age. So.....I did about 4-5 signs with Bayleigh at about this age to help her with frustration and screaming!! (and help me too!!) And since Layne is in no hurry to talk...I decided to do it again. We have introduced "more" up to this point. And he got it!!! Today I introduced "milk." It is just TOO sweet to see him signing. :)

Okay, mommy gush over.

Here's a layout for Inspired Blueprints. This was the bonus sketch. FUNNNNNN to do. I totally did this layout in a day...which is remarkable. haha That's why I love the sketches - so easy to complete and adapt in a short amount of time.
Using lots of KI stuff!! Love me some KI. :) And they are coming out with a fabulous little boy line that is on my must have list.

Well, have a fabulous Friday! I am off to a girls night out this evening with my wonderful girlfriends. We are going to see the new movie with Harry Connick Jr. *swoon* Yeah, nuff said. hehe

Enjoy your day! Do something for yourself.

XO

There's no place like home....

2009-01-29T07:26:00.000-08:00

Ahhh, the joys of home. I just love my house - it truly is my home and place of rest. :)

We are back from the whirlwind weekend. Except it wasn't very much of a whirlwind in a good sense of the word. Always something huh?

I was so excited to get away and be able to attend a wonderful rehearsal dinner at a winery in St. Augustine - with wonderful food and great conversation. Then, a fabulous reception dinner consisting of filet mignon eaten overlooking the beaches and intercoastal of St. Augustine. Ohhhhh....how I was expecting great things! Can you totally see where this is going??

Friday afternoon during the rehearsal itself, Andy felt sick. Turns out, he got the stomach bug that Layne was dealing with earlier in the week. Not much fun from there on out....we ended up going to the rehearsal dinner (not sure why he committed to go!). He spent his time mostly in the bathroom while I cared for Layne and tried to enjoy the company I was with. When the dinner line was opened, I wanted to wait until the line was small - however; Andy prompted me to go because he wasn't lasting and wanted to go. So, I scarfed my food and we left. Delicious food. But, scarfed nonetheless. I spent the rest of the night wandering the isles of Target with the baby, so I could get out of the hotel room and try to do something fun. Like spending some money! heehee And mostly to avoid watching and listening to Andy get sick all night.

Then, Bayleigh got the stomach bug on Saturday morning. Poor baby! :(

Needless to say, the weekend was not what I had been expecting or hoping for. I couldn't help but be disappointed and sad. And thinking that if only our original plan would have been supported by his family, we might have been in a different boat. But, it's okay. I had to let it go...it's no ones fault. :)

We did get to enjoy the wedding and reception. A few pictures to share from the event:

Alright, holy picture overload, huh?!?!? :) That's our eventful weekend in a nutshell. haha The only eventful part!!

I have a project due today that I am trying to finish up, so I better get back to it! Nothing like procrastination!! hehe I work better under pressure. Ahhh, at least that is what I tell myself.

Back tomorrow with a layout to share.

Until then....

XO

Diapers. check. Clothes. check.

2009-01-22T06:20:00.000-08:00

Well, I am super busy trying to pack stuff for 4 people including an infant!! Yikes!! We are headed out this afternoon after baby J goes home to scoot over to St. Augustine. Andy is in his commander's wedding and it's a HUGE event! Lots of things and fancy events to attend. Bayleigh will be going with Andy's dad for the entire weekend. We will keep Layne with us and he will stay with friends during the wedding on Saturday. We had a bigger and better plan, but that was shot due to some family "issues." So, we will make the best of what we've got.

Layne is now all better. And I am now all better. I got his yuckies yesterday, but am feeling much much better today. I appreciate everyone's good thoughts and prayers for us!

So, what's new?!? I feel so out of touch....the Lysol has gotten to my head and consumed my every minute. haha

Let me update with my Inspired Blueprints layout for Sketch #8. I was assigned an 8.5x11 page and a card...so here they are:
Yep, the same card as below. I used my LRS kit to make the card after the sketch!! So fun!!!

You totally need to head over there to check out the kit AND check out the bonus sketch!!!!! It's sooo fun and easy. It literally took me just a couple of hours to do that page. hahaha That is a big record for me. LOL May not be that great for some of ya'll, but for me - that is HUGE! I am a *really* slow scrapper. So, head on over to Inspired Blueprints now!! I will update my blog with the bonus sketch layout when I get back.

I hope that everyone has a great weekend. It's CHA weekend - so big stuff coming. Check out the blog over at Studio Calico because they will be updating everyday with new stuff. This is my favorite time of the year. This is *my* Christmas!!! haha I just love seeing all the new product that will be coming out in the next few months.

So far my favorites are October Afternoon, Sassafrass Lass, Scribble Scrabble, Cosmo Cricket, and Crate Paper. Yummy goodies. Check them out!!

I will check in with a full scoop on the big military to-do wedding when we get back!

Until then...

XO

There he goes again....

2009-01-20T08:28:00.000-08:00

*sigh*

Poor baby Layne is sick once again. He went to bed just fine and woke up vomiting at about 1 am. After more ickies into the bathroom sink, then changing his sheets and his clothes and getting him settled back down - he was fast asleep. Only to wake up an hour later to him again vomiting. This went on ALL night....every hour on the hour. He woke up at about 9 am, all smiles and wanting to play and eat. I let him play for a bit and then skipped his normal breakfast foods to just nurse him. Before we were even done, he had thrown up every bit of milk he had consumed. So, we have the ickies yet again. I am Lysoling, wiping, laudering, hand sanitizing ALL the time. I am praying he gets better soon and that we will all stay well. Poor sweet baby boy.

We are supposed to head to St. Augustine this weekend for Andy's commander's wedding. It is quite the to-do - so it should be a fun time. Hopefully, we will get rid of all of these sickies before going.

Alright, I am tired, so I am going to stop rambling. LOL

But, I did want to share my Little Red Scrapbook pages for January.

This one was for the January challenge - FLASHBACK. And is this paper not perfect for 80s pictures??? hahaha I wasn't quite old enough for all of the 80s rage (the picture was taken in 1993) - but I mean, I did have some 80s tendencies - NKOTB, neon, slouch socks, etc. You totally need to check it out and get those pictures of yourself scrapped...pull out those oldies, scaries yes, but your kids/family will love it!!

Take a moment to reflect on what this day means to Americans. No matter what party you align yourself with - this day is historic and will be forever etched on my mind.

Alright, until tomorrow. And hopefully better health news.

XO

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr....

2009-01-16T06:32:00.000-08:00

Okay, I live in Florida. *You* all know that. *I* know that that. However, I wouldn't believe it today!! It was 26 degrees when I took Bayleigh to school this morning....26 people!!! And the high today is only 44. I mean, seriously?!?! *sigh* I wish it would snow. If it's going to be that cold - it should snow. We deserve snow for enduring this cold weather. :) All you northerners need not feel bad though, I understand you have it much, MUCH worse. haha

Well, to top off the cold weather - we are ALL sick. Bayleigh was first, then Layne, and I came down with it yesterday. No fun at all. I am so congested...but, feeling a bit better since taking some sinus pressure meds. I am hoping it stays away from Andy because I don't know if my patience can take it. Don't laugh, you know how men are!!! Piti. Ful.

I plan to hole myself up and scrap all weekend. It is just *too* cold to go outside and do anything. I might take Bayleigh around the neighborhood to sell Girl Scout cookies on Sunday. We will see how the weather holds up.

I have a page to share....my first Inspired Blueprints assignment!!! YAYYAYAYAY!! So so fun. :) Check out sketch #7 over there. Great way to scrap lots of pictures or let those patterned paper shine. I am not normally a lots of pictures scrapbooker, but this was fun. It's always fun to go outside of your box, you know??
Fun stuff. :) All paper is by Reminisce. I loved that fall line from last year....and was saving it for a special page. I save lots of paper for special projects. haha

I have lots of layouts to share now that I found an online editing program. (Thanks Katrina!) I won't post them all now, but look for them in the coming days!

I hope that you are all staying warm in this frigid weather.

Until tomorrow...

XO

Sneakalicious...

2009-01-13T20:09:00.000-08:00

haha - That is so not a word, right!??! Oh well..it should be! :)

I squeaked in with my LRS design team layouts for the month. Man, with the holidays, time really sped away from me.

Here are some sneaks before the pages go live:

Lots of fun American Crafts goodies to work with!! :) Keep your eye on the gallery there for when the layouts go live. The other DT ladies did some awesome work!

Both the kids are currently sick. Can you say, WOW?!?!?! LOL Bayleigh has been home for the past two days with a bad head cold - but she IS going back tomorrow. At 11:30 today I contemplated taking her up there then. Seriously. I told I was going to make her change out of her pjs, so she could make it for lunch. Yeah, this mama is tired of caring for 2 sick babies and another baby for the past two days. School is calling her name. Literally! They called both days to let us know she was absent. *wink*

Hope that everyone is staying warm. We are supposed to get progressively colder in the coming days. Yes, in the teens on Friday. Teens people!!!! This is Florida. Teens are unacceptable.

Off to clean my desk as it is a complete disaster!!!

Oh and be sure to check out the sneaks for February's kit over at Studio Calico. They go live tonight at midnight! Shaping up to be another FABULOUS kit! They never disappoint.

Until tomorrow...

XO

Gator bait!

2009-01-09T10:39:00.000-08:00

Normally, I don't post sports related things on my blog. But, I just can't resist. My alma mater - the University of Florida - played and won the National Championship last night! GO GATORS! It's a great day to be a part of Gator Nation. And I am so impressed with Tim Tebow - off the field. If you haven't heard of him yet, go look him up. He is an awesome football player, but more importantly, he is a crusader for Christ. Amazing guy!

Okay, back to regular scheduled program. Just had to get my gloating in there for a minute. :)

It's been a rough week here. Getting back into our routine and getting my house cleaned. Baby J has not liked being back at Mrs. Christie's house either. Makes for some *really* long days when he just wants to be held or sat with all day long. And if it's not one of those two - he screams....and I do mean, scream! I am sure each week will get easier. But, wow - what a week!

Here's a layout I did awhile back with the November addon papers at LRS. Fun Crate Paper line and uber cute pictures of little Bayleigh with her first cousin, Emma.

That little baby is now 4 and her mama had another baby this week. Her water broke on Wednesday and she delivered baby Aaron via c-section. She was only 30 weeks along....but, Aaron is doing pretty well - weighing in at 4 pounds, 1 ounce. If you could keep them in your thoughts, that would be great. They are expecting to keep the baby for at least 3 weeks, but my sister-in-law will be going home this weekend.

I am so glad that it is Friday!! :) I am going to enjoy this weekend so much. Time with the kids and Andy is drilling, so it will be quiet. haha Hey, we all need a break every once in awhile, right?

I guess that's about all the rambling from me today. I will finish with some pictures of my hair transformation....over 9 inches cut off!

Before:
After (excuse the windblown hair - it was really windy and I had to take this one myself):
I am loving it and it's nice to not have babies pulling on it all day! hehe

Until next time...

XO

Don't faint!

2009-01-08T07:04:00.001-08:00

Two days in a row, I am blogging!! Woo hoo....way to start off the new year. :)

So, baby boy has stopped sucking his thumb. :( He got a really bad ear infection and stopped almost 3 weeks ago. He even stopped nursing. (read: OUCH!!!!!) Luckily, he started nursing again. However, no more thumb sucking. So sad! But, the saddest part is that now he doesn't have a way to self-soothe to go to sleep because he won't take a pacifier either. *sigh*

Here are a few pictures of me and the kids the Sunday before Christmas. I can't believe how big they are getting. These were all taken by me and one with the self-timer...which is interesting when you are holding a baby and trying to run into place. haha I am sure my neighbors were watching over their morning cup of coffee laughing their heads off at me.

I am working on my January design team projects for Little Red Scrapbook. What a fun kit! I thought, "Oh boy bright colors!?!?!" But, man, it's so fun to work with things out of my comfort zone. Love it! You have to check it out. All newly released American Crafts stuff! Woot woot!Run, don't walk, to check it out. And the addons?!?! To die for!!! I had to get it all this month. There are some *really new* released Thickers in the embellishment addon - glittery goodness that they are!!

Alright, have to go chase down the little man. He is into everything lately. I can't keep my eyes off of him for more than 30 seconds or he has a piece of paper or something of his sisters in his mouth. :) Maybe this will help her with her tidiness issue?!?!? Ha - yeah right! A mama can dream, right??

Until tomorrow...Happy Thursday!

XO

And they returned home...

2009-01-07T07:07:00.001-08:00

Okay, I have had this screen up for two days! It's time to finally post something. haha Procrastinator much??

Do you ever get so behind that getting caught up seems impossible? I mean, the thought occurs that why should you bother? That is how I have felt...trying to get my house caught up, kids caught up, laundry caught up, unpacking caught up, and everything else that fell by the wayside while we were on "vacation."

So, we are back. We traveled down to my mom's place on the west coast of Florida and enjoyed our time there. Then, we drove across the state and visited my dad. A few days later, we traveled back up home. A total of 17 hours in the car over that visit. Yeah, I am so glad to be home and out of a car. Couple that with Layne's aversion to his car seat and some of those hours were L-O-N-G!

Bayleigh is back at school. Can you hear me screaming and jumping up and down?? I was happy to have her home, but also soooo happy to see her back to school. Routine is good. She craves routine. *I* crave routine. haha :) And she started her first day back with a pile of homework. Yay school!

I guess I need to update with my layouts and projects for December's Little Red Scrapbook kit. Yikes - it really has been a long time. The kit was the new Arctic Chill line by Fancy Pants. Such pretty paper - but, very challenging for this Florida girl to create with. Here are my pages:
And these are for my December daily album. I have only done through the 4th, but I do plan on doing more! Alright, enough for me today! I am going to post more tomorrow, including some pictures of my two Christmas cuties and of my new do! :) Yes, I got over 9 inches cut off.

Have a great Wednesday! **hugs** to you all.

XO

grumpy babies

2008-12-14T19:38:00.000-08:00

make for grumpy mommies.

Layne has had this eye goo issue. There are like green ickies in them all the time - clumped to his eyelashes and in the corners. I wash his face to help because he acts like you are poking his eye out when you touch any part of his eye. *rolls eyes* No, no pink eye. I have no clue!!

Needless to say - he's been pretty fussy. At times making me want to jump from a tall tree.

We go to the doctor tomorrow for his check-up, so I am hoping we can get some answers then.

Other than that, we put up our outside decorations and put lights on the tree we brought home on Friday.

Bayleigh attended a tea party at Cookies and Tea for Me with her Brownie Girl Scout troop. I don't have pictures because I wasn't allowed to stay - only certified leaders. I might get one from the leader that was there - we will see.

Not much else to report. Just chugging along and looking forward to Christmas. I am ready for this week to go by, so I can sleep in a bit for the next couple of weeks. :)

Let's see if I have a picture to share...yep, little man up on all fours trying to crawl. heheUntil next time...

XO

hello there :)

2008-12-12T07:17:00.000-08:00

So, I went to see Twilight with my girlfriend, KK, last night. :) Ohhh it was good...so fabulous. And Edward (played by Rob Pattinson) was sooo worth watching. I have that on my list of movies to buy! Now I can start book 2, New Moon. I am sure it will be just as good as the first, if not better!

Tonight is tree hunting time. I think we are going to head to Lowe's and pick out our tree. I have been putting it off because of Layne's mobility. I have a feeling I will be spending the next few weeks keeping him out of trouble with the tree. Oh I forgot how challenging this age is. hehe He's a trip - into everything and constantly on the go. And when he is hungry - he will follow me everywhere. In true boy fashion.

And the best part today - SNEAKS!!! Here are some sneaks from the December LRS kit. Using the new Fancy Pants Chill Out line....mmmm, such a fun line. Pretty snowflakes and fun colors. Be sure to check back for the full reveal in a week or so. And go order your kit, so you can play with the sweet stuff too. And the addon papers included two new lines by Pink Paislee!!!!

I am working on my first assignment for Inspired Blueprints. Such fun sketches over there. Be sure to check out their current sketch and enter your layout for a chance to win a wonderful kit sponsored by Lifetime Moments. They have awesome kits and wouldn't you love to get one for FREE!??!?! So get cracking on those layouts!

Enjoy your Friday and I will try to check in with our weekend happenings!

XO

here I am.. :)

2008-12-06T09:17:00.000-08:00

So, today is a busy day for us. But, I have a moment of down time, so wanted to check in...gotta share my news and an update on baby Crew.

We had a birthday party this morning for cute little LEC. :) Then, Bayleigh had a Girl Scout activity at 11:45, with lunch squeezed in between. When I pick her up this afternoon, we are going to head to Allison's house to watch the Gator game (go GATORS!!!!). We might head out to the armory tonight for a little Christmas party action, but I dunno yet. Depends on how it pans out there food and entertainment wise.

*sigh* I am tired just typing it. And tomorrow is another busy day!

Let me start with an update on Crew. Here's the latest straight from Maegan:
"Crew started his second round of chemotherapy Tuesday, so unfortunately we still aren't able to take him home just yet. He is responding VERY well to it- I walked in today and he was awake and moving around in the crib and when he saw me he gave me the biggest smile- I was SO happy!
We have so much to be thankful for!!
Jerry said that last night, Crew was actually giggling! Our baby boy is going to be just fine.
I'll continue to keep you all updated."

Yes our God still performs miracles everyday. They are by no means out of the woods as he will still have more rounds of chemo to go through due to the aggressive nature of the cancer. But, baby steps are all we ask of Him. He is so graceful and merciful to His children. I appreciate ya'll praying and know that the Lord hears our cries and answers prayers. Don't stop the praying now!

How about this little guy into everything now:

And this little girl who is so excited about Christmas coming:

Just look who showed up at our house this week - Zack. Our elf on a shelf....he made his appearance and the above little girl was beyond excited. :)

And for my exciting news.......AND NO I AM NOT PREGNANT!! Trust me, at this point, I wouldn't be claiming that one as exciting. haha

I have been asked to join the fabulous design team over at Inspired Blueprints. How fun!!! I am joining the fuber talented girls over there and so excited about it. :) You have to go check it out because there are a ton of ideas and the gallery over there rocks!

Alright, have a wonderful Saturday, I will check in tomorrow with some more fun updates.

Stay warm and cozy!

XO

in order

2008-12-02T10:10:00.000-08:00

Just trying to get my house and life back and order since the vacation last week. After traveling, family visiting, football games, and all the other things going on - my house is suffering. :) But, we are on our way back. Now just have to do the loads and loads of laundry. Ahh the fun of trips!

Here is the little man performing his newest trick....army crawling!He is so proud of himself, isn't he?? And we are now into hiding everything and clearing the floor of everything. Because he will find it - no matter how big or small it is - he WILL find it.

And here's Bayleigh on the computer and Layne had to "help" her out. haha

Our Thanksgiving was wonderful and our short stay with my mom was good. :) The driving back in the car with Layne crying for the entire ride home was not. Oh I am waiting for the day that he starts liking the car.

I will leave you with a layout. I did this one for sketch #1 at Inspired Blueprints. Used my Apple Orchard kit and addons from Studio Calico. Fun stuff!! :)

I have some exiting news to share, but it will have to wait a few more days!! Don't want to spill the beans too soon. hehe Torture, huh?

Have a terrific Tuesday!

XO

on the road..

2008-11-26T11:34:00.000-08:00

Well, I am on the road to my parents' house. We actually got in at about midnight last night. I didn't crawl into bed until 2 am and Layne was sure to be up at 7 am to get his grub on. LOL :)

So far we are enjoying our trip - nice warm sunshine and no brisk breeze. I love this weather! But, I do miss the cold for the holidays. It really doesn't feel like Thanksgiving when it is like 78 outside, you know??

Of course, I won't be adding any new layouts or pictures because I am on my mom's computer. I have tons to update with though....so I will be sure to get back at it when we get back home.

It was a whirlwind few weeks trying to prepare to make this 7+ hour trip down south. I apologize for not being a faithful blogger. :)

There is another new update on baby Crew. Meagan informed the design team ladies of the following information:
"Crew was moved to the regular floor tonight- he is doing VERY well; he is off all ###### and only has a nasal cannula for a tiny dose of oxygen. I'm not sure when the next dose of chemo will be.. I'm praying that they let us go home soon (at least for Thanksgiving).
He still has a feeding tube in his nose but they keep upping the amount of formula they give him since he is tolerating it so well. I'm hoping they let me feed him a bottle tomorrow. I got to hold him tonight for the 1st time in 2 weeks- yay!!
I'll continue to update all of you as we progress. Thanks everyone! "

Prayers are being answered everyday. I pray for his continued improvement and that the next round of chemo goes well and he has an easier time afterwards. I also pray that all the cancer will be miraculously gone when they do the next analysis. I appreciate your continued prayers for this family!! Isn't it amazing what can happen through the power of prayer??

As for Wildes family updates....the little man is now mobile. Oy vey!! He is grabbing EVERY. THING. I mean he finds like the smallest piece of whatever on the floor and tries to eat it. He is all boy. And his army crawl is serving him well. I promise to post pictures when we get back home.

I hope that everyone enjoys their Thanksgiving! I love ya'll!

Remember to count your blessings, be thankful, and remember our men and women who serve and are away from their families - remember their families here at home too.

XO

baby Crew update

2008-11-15T08:19:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to be sure that Maegan was okay with me posting updates on Crew on my blog before I posted an update.

Here is the latest from Maegan:

"Crew is stable; his vitals are good but he still cannot breathe optimally on his own. His liver has begun to shrink as the chemo destroys the cancer cells, but his kidneys are producing high levels of acid as the cells are flushed out.. this is both good and bad as it means that the cancer cells are being flushed out, but also that his kidneys are taking a beating. He had a genetic test done that came back positive for a gene that meant it's an agressive form of Neuroblastoma, so he is now being given a medication that is helping his red blood cells/bone marrow to come up faster so that they can start the 2nd chemo treatment faster (2-4 days sooner than expected.)

We have a long road ahead of us. He is on a regular ventilator now but still kept unconcious to give his body a chance to heal. He moves his legs and arms around in response to touch. Obviously I can't hold him because he is hooked up to so many machines; he has a tube or catheter in every orifice in his tiny body. He has an arterial catheter sewn into his right thigh to monitor his blood pressure and a tube sewn into his left side to help drain a large pocket of fluid.

Jerry and I are taking shifts with him so that one of us is always there with him around the clock.

I am beyond exhausted but I can't stop to think about it or I will just break down. Please keep me in your thoughts- I really appreciate it."

Please continue to keep this family in your thoughts and prayers at this time. They need a miracle and we are praying that the One who heals will help comfort the family and Crew during this time.

Be back later with another post....I am headed to the Michaels here in Jacksonville to see what goodies I can find.

Have a beautiful Saturday!

XO

sharing.... :)

2008-11-13T06:08:00.000-08:00

The gallery is up at Little Red Scrapbook. You just have to go check it out here. There is such awesome work and I am sure you can draw some inspiration from all the ladies! :)

Here are my pages. First, I made a card for Maegan to say thank you - as this was her last kit as owner.
Then, a page about Layne's birth. A page about Bayleigh's beloved ladybug. This page was part of a scraplift challenge of one of the members at LRS, Heidi. She does some phenomenal work. You can find her page here. This page is about Bayleigh as well and some time that we spent at the springs back in our hometown of Gainesville.
And I saved my favorite page for last. This one is going into my book of me - some advice that I believe in. And this is the most important - "believe in miracles." A page about baby Layne - this picture was taken at the hospital right before we were coming home.
I also did a mini album project, but I will spare you the photo overload. I will post it as soon as I get pictures of the entire album. It's raining today and is supposed to rain all day - so it might be awhile before I can get it in a good light. So fun!!!

Continue praying for baby Crew. I don't have an update right now - only to say that things have not changed. So, I know that the family would appreciate your continued thoughts and prayers.

Enjoy your Thursday! I have 3 infants today - so I better go eat something while I can.

XO

Beseeching prayers!

2008-11-11T17:30:00.000-08:00

Alright everyone, I have an earnest and desperate request tonight.

My friend Maegan Buchanan, the owner of Little Red Scrapbook, needs us to band together in prayer. Send this along to your church groups, your prayer partners, friends, family, whoever. I know that the Lord hears us when we cry to Him. He hears our prayers and this family needs prayer. So, let us lift our voices in unison to Him - the one who heals.

Maegan's baby boy, Crew, was rushed to Vanderbilt hospital in Tennessee last week. He underwent surgery and a biopsy as there was a mass on his liver. The results came in last week and Crew has Stage 4 S Neuroblastoma, which is a malignant tumor in his liver. There was a lot of pressure on his lungs due to the swelling of his liver. He is going to have 2 rounds of chemotherapy that will assist in shrinking his liver and destroying the cancer cells. The first round was administered Friday night and he was resting comfortably.

Jennifer, a fellow design team girlie, called the hospital to check on them. She didn't get them, but got a new family. So, we were a little excited that maybe they got to go home!

However, he took a turn for the worse last night and had to be intubated. He is unconscious right now, but resting comfortably and his vitals are strong. He is breathing with the assistance of an oscillator at this time.

So, please....keep this family and baby boy in your prayers! Things are looking so hard right now. I have cried so many tears for them. He is just 6 months old - 2 months younger than my Layne.

I pray for the Lord's mercy and healing in this baby's life. Join with me please!

XO

Finally better!

2008-11-10T06:17:00.000-08:00

I think I am finally over the hump of yet another cold. It seems like we have stayed continuously sick for the past several weeks. Ugh! And Layne is on the back end of his cold too - which is nice. But, baby J has a runny nose now! I really hope that we don't get another round of colds here. Think some positive thoughts for us that we can stay well. :)

This time of year is my favorite. Brisk mornings, warm fires at night, hot cocoa, and all the smells of autumn and winter. Mmmmmm, my favorite! I cannot wait to bake my apple crisp - that is one of my favorite wintertime treats.

Let me share my sneaks for the Little Red Scrapbook kit. Oh my goodness ya'll - you've got to get your hands on this! I am just about done making a mini album with the kit and I am down to bare bones scraps. I just used it all up!! Hop on over and pick up a kit - and while you are at it - get the ribbon, stamp, and embellies add ons. Oh and the paper add on - delish! Here are some sneaks to tide you over until the full pictures are posted. Oh and don't forget to stop by and see every one's work - this reveal has wonderful projects and layouts by everyone!! :)

I have to head to the Girl Scout council this morning to get Bayleigh's brownies stuff. She is marching in a parade tomorrow, so have to make sure she is properly outfitted.

Let me also add a few of my favorite Halloween pictures. My cutie pie Lilo and "scary" blue monster.

I still have another memory card to upload - so you might see some more pictures tomorrow!

I hope you have a wonderful Monday! :)

XO

Brrrrr....

2008-10-29T06:37:00.000-07:00

I do live in the peninsular state - you know the one surrounded by water on 3 sides?!?! Right?? I mean, it is still October. Right?? And our temperature this morning??? 30 freaking degrees. That is way too cold for this Florida girl in October. And tonight, we are expecting more cold temperatures! Yikes!

I forgot what it's like bundling up a baby. And how they scream when you put the hat over their ears and the big fluffy jacket on. LOL Layne was so not impressed.

However, he was impressed with all the hay he encountered this weekend. First, the hay on the hay bales for the rides at church....

And he did the same thing at the pumpkin patch - picking up the hay on the ground and trying to eat it. Silly boy!

Today is errand day. And of course, I would pick the coldest day of the freaking year to take the kids out to run some errands. Oy!!! Couldn't take them on Monday when it was a balmy 65!! :)

I will leave you with another page I created inspired by the wonderful and talented Nicole Samuels. She is so inspiring I swear - head on over to check her out at Studio Calico.

And lastly - the new LRS kit will be up on November 1st. Wooo hoooo - my kit should be here any day. I will get to cracking with it and post some sneaks as soon as I get some pages done. I can't wait to dig in to all those goodies!

Until next time...

XO

Whew!

2008-10-27T06:55:00.000-07:00

What a weekend we had. It was chock full of fun stuff for all of us - oh and a little hard work too. :)

Saturday we went and helped get ready for Fellowship Baptist Church's Harvest Festival. I sat and hung doughnuts on a string for a few hours..hahaha Andy helped lift palates of hay and other heavy stuff...because that is what boys do. Bayleigh ate candy that we had collected to hand out....because that is what little girls do. And Layne sat in his stroller and took it all in.

We came home to watch the Gators stomp the Kentucky Wildcats!! wooo hooooo - lovin' me some Gator football. :)

Then, off we went to the pumpkin patch to pick our pumpkins for the year. Here in Florida, we can't get them too soon or they implode. Yeah, eww. Not fun picking up a squishy, stinky pumpkin from the front porch. Been there. Done that. Enough said. Seriously.

Yesterday was church...and then the Harvest Festival. We had a great time!!! Andy and I served chili for over an hour - I swear we probably handed out a hundred pounds of chili. There were record numbers there. And this year, with the economy in a mess and tight budget $$, we were on limited funds. We did more this year than done before and more people came than have ever come before. I tell you...it's amazing what the Lord can do when you hand things over to Him.

It was a great weekend, but I sure am glad that it is Monday. :) Time to get my house back in order and start another week.

It won't be long until we go home for Thanksgiving and I can't wait. I haven't been "home" since Christmas of last year. Crazy! And my dad and brother have yet to meet Layne. Seriously. It's time for some good old mama love. LOL

Off to do some laundry and get back to it while the boys nap.

Until next time.

XO

I'm still here...

2008-10-24T10:21:00.000-07:00

Been in quite a slump lately. Trying to get out my big girl panties and carry on. hehe :)

I have yet to get a picture of Bayleigh with her new haircut! I know - what a slacker scrapper I am. She has started taking showers in the mornings, so her hair is wet when she leaves. And when she gets home it is a mess. I should get some good ones this weekend though. We have our church Harvest Festival, the pumpkin patch, and church on Sunday. All perfect opportunities to snap a great picture. :)

I should be receiving my November LRS kit very soon. I am super excited about it!!! It is all a line that I have been dying to get my hands on for awhile now....sooooo I can't wait!! Just have to finish a couple of projects up and my desk will be clear to go. If you haven't checked them out - go now!! Great things are in the works.

Here's a new layout I did:

Totally inspired by Davinie Fiero (again!) - that girl can scrap!! haha Just had to document Bay's sweet tooth. Man, that girl would eat candy and chocolate all day if I let her. Not such a bad idea to me! haha

Layne is doing great! Growing so big....and babbling up a storm. Of course da-da is in the mix. But, no ma-ma yet in the string of babbles. That's okay. It is still adorable.

Here we all are before we were off to the Havana Pumpkin Festival last Saturday. Andy was at drill, so it was just me and the kiddos.We met up with friends from church and went to Cracker Barrel and then headed over. Here are all the kiddos. Note the huge grin on Layne's face. He is just smitten with his big sister. It is just too cute. :) Makes this mama's heart swell for sure.(Remember to click on the pic to see it bigger)

Enjoy your Friday!! I am sure I will have many more pictures to add in the coming days.

XO
C

well, hello there

2008-10-14T06:31:00.000-07:00

It's been far too long. But, it seems as though the ickies have again returned to the Wildes household. Layne somehow got a ringworm on his face, then came down with a cold, and last night broke out in some sort of rash on his body. Now I am sick with said cold - probably due to the total lack of sleep this weekend dealing with a sick baby boy. So, I am high on Dayquil and popping my ColdEase every 3 hours or so. Hoping this is gone *very* soon.

Nothing much is news around these parts.

Yesterday I met with Bayleigh's teacher and she had nothing but great things to say about her. I furrowed my brow a bit at those comments. haha She's a good kid. For everyone else. :) I discussed her apparent lack of motivation and caring and asked that her teacher please help me with it. So....we shall see. Other than that, nothing but beaming and glowing reports on how wonderful she is doing. Makes this mama proud.

She got a haircut courtesy of me. :) I was sick of the long tangles and mangy hair. So, off it went and she looks just adorable with her new do. I will take some pics today and post for you to see. I will try to do a before and after comparison.

I am taking part in Scraptoberfest over at Lifetime Moments. Fun stuff - the challenge is to do a layout a day.

I did this page. I totally got the inspiration from a layout by Davinie Fiero - scrapbooker extraordinaire. :) You can click on each image to see it bigger and the journaling is in there too.

And I will leave you with a picture of the little man.
Gotta go get some rest while the boys rest. Will update tomorrow with new do pictures.

Enjoy your Tuesday!

XO

"TAXI!"

2008-10-08T05:40:00.000-07:00

You know you just yelled that out, right? :)

That is what I feel like today. Taking 4 children in a car every morning to school is getting tiresome. Bayleigh's best friend E has been coming over every morning to go to school with us. Her grandparents, who normally take her, are out of the country. So, we have been doing this for a good solid month now. And I am wore out. Ti'erd. hehe

It's been a rough week. Lots of baby crying. Lots. Dunno what is up with that.

Lots of 7-year-old attitude. Lots. I do know what is up with that. It's her dad's stubbornness and her own drama. Sheesh.

I am positive that my week will turn around. :) I am going to a benefit at the Women's Pregnancy Center tomorrow evening. I get to listen to Pam Tebow speak, so I am pretty excited about that. You know, mom to Tim Tebow, aka Superman. LOL It's a Gator joke I guess.

Have some things to share with you.

Layne's 7 month snapshots:

Layne's new favorite - sitting up in the tub:
And sucking on his wash rag:
Anniversary flowers given to me by Andy. Aren't they pretty?? :)
Of course, I also have some scrappy things to share. Sorry for the picture heavy post. But, ya'll like pictures don't you?? hehe

A layout I did for the Inspired Blueprints sketch this week:

Added some close up pictures of the small embellies and details on the page. If you haven't done so, go check out the sketch - it is awesome. I turned mine a little bit. :) Some inspiration drawn from Rita Oliverio....she rocks!!!!

Also, the new kit is up at Little Red Scrapbook. And you do not want to miss it. It is just gorgeous!!!! Lots of new Sassafrass paper and all the addons are to die for. I didn't start with this kit - but I had to go ahead and buy it all anyways. haha

Check it out! Next month's kit has been confirmed and I just have to say - it's going to rock your socks off.

Until next time....

XO

menu Monday

2008-10-06T06:20:00.001-07:00

Sunday - chicken and dumplings, yeast rolls
Monday - flat iron steak, baked potatoes, butter beans
Tuesday - leftovers
Wednesday - leftovers
Thursday - chicken and rice, cauliflower
Friday - leftovers
Saturday - pot roast, cheese grits, asparagus, yeast rolls

Total bill for the week: $111.68

I made it!! :)

2008-10-02T06:16:00.000-07:00

I was MIA yesterday because I was dealing with Layne and some sort of ear problem. AND I was waiting on the big Little Red Scrapbook announcement. Refresh. Refresh. Refresh. haha That is what I did all morning.

So.......

I MADE THE TEAM!!!!!!!!

I am so excited and thrilled to be joining some awesome ladies over there. Woot woot!! You can find the site and awesome kits here.... Little Red Scrapbook. (ok, dude! links not working right now....you can use my sidebar, I will come back and fix it when blogger starts behaving!) Lots of fun stuff coming your way!! You don't want to miss out on this month and next month is to die for, so don't miss out!!!!! Go. NOW!!! :)

In other news...Layne turned 7 months yesterday. I didn't get to snap any pictures though because we had a busy day after the doctors appointment, making dinner for friends, and doing the whole church/bible club thang. I will for sure take some today. It's chilly out, so I should get some fun ones of him in his little man sweater. :)

Bayleigh is challenging me so much right now. Anyone have advice for this wore out mama?!?! It's the sassyness and lack of caring about anything that is KILLING me. Any. Thing. She doesn not give a flying flip about. I was so not like that as a kid and I just can't wrap my mind around it. I am ready to have something work. Some. Thing.

I made this

A super simple page inspired by one of the designers at SL. This kit is all Scarlet Lime goodies...finally the end of that kit!! :) Now on to the next one. I have some ideas floating around - so we will see if the boys will cooperate.

I love this picture of Bayleigh and me. Taken by photo Andy. :) He did good. I have trained him well. Had to document this one for sure. And I wanted to keep the focus on the picture - not on the paper or embellishments.

Alright, better do dishes and laundry while the wee ones are napping.

So excited to see you over at Little Red Scrapbook.

XO

Wow!

2008-09-30T05:57:00.000-07:00

It's Tuesday already. How will it already be October tomorrow?? And Layne will be 7 months. That is just crazy!!
We made our Walmart run yesterday. Always an adventure with two babies. But, we made it in, out, and home in an hour and fifteen minutes. Not too shabby! Of course, they were all settled in the cart and we get inside and they started crying in unison. haha Fun stuff.

I started my tutoring yesterday for a friends two girls. It went well. The first session is always so hard because you are trying to get to know them, but also trying to get *some* work accomplished. I think they did well. We will see if they do their homework. *wink*

Wanted to share some fun pictures I pulled off of my memory card
Just enjoying my time with the kiddos. That is when my daughter isn't making me want to run away. haha Seriously. Something about little girls... I say I cash in all my "time" and head out now. You see, I earn time when I am single parent and Andy is out of town on military something or other. It's just the way I roll. :) Considering we have already done one 14 month deployment and numerous schools and such...I have lots of time banked. hahaha

But, I might just save it until she is 15. I should have enough time when she turns 15 to take 3 years. LOL Because if this is what 7 is like....I don't want to see 15!!

Here is another page I finished. I actually have 4 layouts sitting next to my table that I need to take pictures of and post....but, I don't want to get too ambitious. I wouldn't want to overwhelm myself. hahaha

Idea inspired by a layout at SC done by Caroline Ikeji! :) Love her stuff.

Alrighty, have a terrific Tuesday everyone!

XO

finding balance

2008-09-29T06:14:00.000-07:00

I have spent the better part of the last week and the weekend figuring out the balance in my life. Trying to make sure that I enjoy the small things and not put so much pressure on myself to be and do and go.

First step is thisI am gonna be present in my kids lives. I love being at home - just LOVE it. I get to be here to pick Bayleigh up and I get to be with Layne as he grows and starts becoming quite the little man. Gotta balance my time with my kids.

Also thisYep, a budget. I hate the thought of being so rule bound and sticking so heavily to a budget. But, I have learned that that is exactly what I need. I have to have strict rules with regards to money. So, I am finding balance and coming up with a budget for us. Gotta start saving more and paying down debt. Then, I gotta stick to it. :)

Creating balance by creating art
A page about our first family vacation last year to the lake. We had a blast and I am actually almost done scrapping all of the pictures. That will be a first for me. You can click on it to see it bigger. Had fun creating that page with the June Lifetime Moments kit.

In other news....I will hear about LRS by October 1st. So, talk about email box stalker. hahaha I swear I have checked my mail more in the past 2 days than I have in the past month.

That's all for now. Gonna go tidy the house while the boys are asleep. Then, we are making a Walmart trip.

Happy Monday!

XO

catching up

2008-09-23T18:48:00.000-07:00

So, we had visitors this weekend. It's always nice to have family in town. What is not nice is cleaning up afterwards. Ick! I am ready to be all caught up. I know I will get there. Eventually.

Been doing absolutely nothing creative. Which makes me sad. Maybe tomorrow. I feel as though I can't sit and enjoy it when I have so many things I need to do. Gotta learn to let that go. haha

Some pictures of Layne on one of our morning walks
Not much else to say. Layne has been waking up at 5 am every morning so far this week. This mama needs a break. I am hoping he sleeps in a little later tomorrow.

I submitted my stuff for the LRS design team. So now it's just sit and wait. I have no preconceived notions about it. Just excited to see who gets chosen. :)

Alright, until next time. Hopefully, I will have a scrappy page to share.

XO

Trying to get my life back in order since the in-laws visit this weekend.

Sunday - Meatloaf, mac and cheese, corn on the cob, cornbread
Monday - Sausage, rice with stewed tomatoes, lima beans
Tuesday - Leftovers
Wednesday - Leftovers
Thursday - Pot pie, biscuits
Friday - Pork chops, yellow rice, black eyed peas, yeast rolls
Saturday - Leftovers

Total grocery bill: $108.63

the sillies

2008-09-18T09:13:00.000-07:00

I am afraid that my son has an awful case of the sillies. I present to you Exhibit A:And Exhibit B:
I mean, what are those faces?? LOL He is so funny!! I usually get at least one funny face when I am taking pictures of him. It wouldn't be a complete photo session without one. :)

Another one of his latests
I know the pictures is blurry, but that is because he was crying and flapping around. Yes, my son is holding his arms out to be picked up. Whenever I come near him, he thinks his mama needs to pick him up! Doesn't help that he has a sister that will give in every time.

Bayleigh doesn't get much blogging action. She is doing well. We have been at odds lately because she is just so grown. At 7, it's crazy!! Sometimes I shudder when I think of what 16 will be like. Her latest things are watching PBS again, running around barefoot - everywhere!, playing with her brother and Eden in the mornings, and trying to adjust to being in 2nd grade. She doesn't take a good picture when I have to use the flash....so, this is the best that I have got. If this isn't a picture for the ages, I don't know what is.
I do have a page to share, but it hasn't been taken off of my camera yet. I will update with that tomorrow.

Off to finish up my bio and take pictures of my mini album I completed for the LRS design team call. It's going to be pure anxiety once it's in and I have to sit and wait until October 1st. Oh well!!

Thanks for all the love and positive feedback. Ya'll are too sweet!

Until tomorrow...

XO

sharing :)

2008-09-17T06:06:00.000-07:00

There is alot to be said about sharing. We try to teach our kids to share from an early age. I mean, no one wants their kid to be the one that can't share, ya know??

I think as adults, however, we must continue that concept. Not just our toys though. We need to share our lives, our faith, our family. I am trying to put myself out there more. You see, I am quite the shy one....I would rather be a wallflower any day. However, I married the class clown. haha Andy will talk to anyone and he can make a friend with just about any person he meets. I think I need to take note.

At church, there have been a few women that were placed on my heart that might need some welcoming - a place to feel at home. Yet, week after week, I just sit in my pew and do nothing. Not this time baby! On Sunday, I *will* share myself with them. Invite them to our fabulous Sunday School class....anything. God doesn't call us to be wallflowers...he calls us to be lights for him. I have gotta be accountable - so I will let you know how it goes. :)

A few other things I need to share with ya'll.

First are some new pictures...
And then a layout I did using the Lifetime Moments kit from July. :)Here is a closeup of the tag at the bottom - which is from a Scarlet Lime kit (both the circle and the regular tag).
And a closeup of the title - which uses 2 different Thicker fonts and some AC letter stickers.
I think I am going to take the plunge and apply for the Little Red Scrapbook design team. It is a kit club!! They have some awesome kits and this would be a great opportunity. I guess keep your fingers crossed. I am so excited - but, can't decide what to write about myself or which layouts to send in for my submission.

Maybe that is a part of being the shy one. Never much to say about myself.

Until next time...

XO

menu Monday

2008-09-16T10:48:00.000-07:00

I know it is Tuesday, but I forgot to post my menu yesterday! So, here it is.

Sunday - Turkey Noodle Casserole, corn, bread
Monday - Leftovers
Tuesday - Roasted chicken, corn on the cob, smashed garlic potatoes, fresh yeast rolls
Wednesday - Leftovers
Thursday - Chicken fried steak with pan gravy and biscuits, steamed green beans
Friday - *date night*
Saturday - family in town

Total grocery bill: $81.15 (includes Bayleigh's snack for her class and extras for her classroom snacks)

sadness

2008-09-14T19:51:00.000-07:00

I know that people deal with death and sadness everyday. But, I don't. I have had a few tragic deaths in my family - from accidents to cancer. Only a few. For that I praise the Lord.

However, on Friday morning a fellow scrapper and "friend" from Studio Calico was killed in a tragic car accident at the age of 41.She leaves behind a loving husband and two beautiful children, ages 7 and 4. So full of life and spice this one was. The world is a little dimmer without her light shining. Please pray for her family. They need all the prayers you can offer. Pray for the girl driving the other car - she is only 22. Her life as she knew it is virtually over as well. The entire thing is so completely tragic.

I think I have been forced to face life. You know?? What I am doing for forever?? I certainly have been hugging my kids alot tighter. Raising my voice a little less. And praising God a whole lot more.

Make sure you take pictures of yourself with your kids and family. Aleida always emphasized this on her blog. You don't know what tomorrow holds....so make sure to capture the now, now.

I love you all. I am spent emotionally. I promise to be back tomorrow with a more upbeat post. Even a picture or two and a layout.

((hugs)) I appreciate every last one of you.

XO

friday!!

2008-09-12T20:11:00.000-07:00

w00t w00t!!!! So glad to have a weekend ahead of me. :) Even though Andy will be at drill all weekend, I will just be glad to have some time "off."

I got some really sad news today. I don't know what to say to do it justice, so I am going to wait and compose my thoughts. I will post about it tomorrow, when I can see through the fog of sadness and share some coherent thoughts on the topic.

So, Layne weighs 19 lbs and 6 ozs. He's getting to be such a big boy!! :) And so loving on his mama lately - in a major way. He is clinging to me and has started reaching for me when he wants me to hold him....so cute!! For now, I guess. I can't help but love and snuggle on this sweet little man.

He has also discovered his tongue. So, we see alot of it these days.
And a picture of Bayleigh in her apple shirt. I just love this shirt and had to buy it for her. She had no say - she got it whether she liked it or not. I mean, it's perfect for scrapbook pages. hahaSorry to have such a short post tonight. My heart just isn't in it. I am still trying to make sense of the days events.

I promise to update tomorrow. My family and I are all fine....so no worries.

Have a fabulous Saturday!

XO

better days :)

2008-09-10T19:27:00.000-07:00

So, we have had a better day today. Layne was a stinker and wouldn't take naps for me, but that is okay. He is dead asleep now though. Has been since about 8:30. :) This means no middle of the night stirrings...YAY!!

Went to story time at the library. They sing a song at the beginning and go through each of the children's names there...

Layne over the water
Layne over the sea
Layne catch a blackbird
You can't catch me!

For the first time, the little man noticed people saying his name. He didn't quite get it and kept looking from grown up to grown up trying to figure out why they were saying his name. It was mighty cute! Jack even perked a bit when he heard him name.

Here is a picture of Layne on his 1/2 birthday
And Bayleigh decided to dress Layne in her baby dress last night. I was off doing chores, so Daddy was in charge. Needless to say, alot can happen when Daddy is in charge. Including this
And look at this one - the perfect face for being dressed up in his sissy's dress :)
Can't leave off with that one, so here are some baby grins
Tomorrow Layne goes for his 6 month check-up. I am curious to see how much he weighs. And then tomorrow evening is Bayleigh's open house. I am going to be ready for a weekend - for sure!

Here's another page I completed with the June Studio Calico kit - yummy Basic Grey goodies.You must check out their new kit!! Soooo good...and the hints for next month are sounding great as well. :) They never disappoint.

Until next time...

XO

oy!

2008-09-09T06:35:00.001-07:00

So, this is how it goes...

Clean up poop out of high chair - CHECK
Change my poopy clothes - CHECK
Pick up screaming baby - CHECK
Watch Layne spit up everywhere - CHECK
Change my spit up clothes - CHECK
Wipe spit up off of every crack and crevice - CHECK
Put Layne down and pick up screaming Jack - CHECK
Smell poopy diaper - CHECK
Change Jack's poopy diaper - CHECK
Change Layne's spit up clothes - CHECK
and
on
and
on

All by 9:00 am. Nuff said!

Things have been out of whack here in the Wildes household. I was sick for over a week with sinus crud. Then, Layne got it. Of course! I mean, there is only so much I can do when I am still nursing.

Friday afternoon was spent in the emergency room because Layne woke up from his nap with a 103 degree fever. Turns out to be a middle ear infection. The 24-year-old doctor informed me that sometimes their fever will spike when covered up during a nap....thanks doc, appreciate it. *rolls eyes* I don't think a 103 spike would be the norm...but whatev. What do I know?? I am no 24-year-old single doctor.

The meds have done a number on Layne. Lots of spit up and poopy diapers. Oh and screaming. Let me not forget the screaming.

*sigh*

Now maybe you can see why I have been mia. :) But, I have hopes that things are turning around for us. Well, I am clinging to those hopes...

Layne is now 6 months old. Gotta share some pictures of him in all his cuteness. Took these about 2 weeks ago.

And as promised pictures of Bayleigh on her first day of 2nd grade. Her cute little outfit was sent to her by her Nana. She thinks her Nana hangs the moon. And picks out the coolest clothes evah!
Trying to think of what else I need to share. Probably a layout. I will add one today and add more soon. Don't want a picture overload. haha

Here is a page using the fun new Making Memories Passport line. Got this stash in my Scarlet Lime kit in June. Also some found in the July Studio Calico kit.
Here is a closeup of the lower right corner. Love me some canvas brads. :)Closeup of the title and the luggage tag with another favorite on top of it - canvas flowers:
Closeup of the upper right with bling on the sticker tag and the fun ribbon that is a part of that fun new MM line:Alright, I better end it here.

Until next time.... (which will hopefully be less than 3 weeks from now - haha)

XO

menu "Monday"

2008-09-02T08:27:00.000-07:00

So, it totally slipped my mind that yesterday was Monday since we all were off. Staying home will do that to a person! :)

Here's my menu for this week:

Sunday: Herbed chicken casserole, rice, lima beans
Monday: Husband night - hamburgers, crab soup
Tuesday: Honey glazed chicken stir fry, rice
Wednesday: Leftovers
Thursday: Ricotta pasta with Italian sausage and tomatoes al Forno
Friday: Leftovers
Saturday: Manly quiche, asparagus

Weekly bill: $148.98 (includes lots of drinks and vitamins for Bay)

Be back later to update with new pictures!

XO

back to school

2008-08-20T18:27:00.001-07:00

Bayleigh went back to school on Monday. She has a great teacher and I am sure that we will have a great year! :) Now, we just have to get into a routine for school. Nice challenge for a mama minus her hubby, heh?? Needless to say, I am doing the best I can.

Today was a rough one...but, we made it through. Now all the kiddos are in bed and I am sitting here watching the Olympics. I really should get up and scrapbook...but, I am so comfy right now. :) Maybe in about 15 minutes, I will get up and do the dishes, load some laundry, and then go scrap. I would like to be tucked into bed to watch the women's beach volleyball semifinals...so that is the plan!

Look at this little man:
He's getting so big!! I miss his snugglies. He just wants to be up and at 'em - nosy little booger. We got a double stroller to take the boys out and about in. And he sits up there like the head honcho looking out over his servants. haha Too funny!! I will have to take a picture tomorrow for ya'll to see.

Also tomorrow I will post some pictures of Bayleigh's first day of school. She was so cute and such a little diva for sure. :)

Andy is off gallivanting - eating a nice meal every night at various restaurants in Savannah. Rough work I tell ya. When is my "mission"? haha I might just save that one for when Bayleigh is a teenager. Don't you think I might need to cash it all in then??

Happy Wednesday! :) (it is Wednesday, isn't it??)

XO

Sunday - ribs, homemade baked beans, hashbrown casserole
Monday - homemade pizza
Tuesday - leftovers
Wednesday - breakfast for dinner
Thursday - fish sticks, fries, and corn
Friday - lasagna, garlic sticks
Saturday - chicken tetrazzini and homemade yeast rolls
Grocery trip for the week - $99.05

Can you tell Andy will be out of town until Friday? :)

XO

busy times :)

2008-08-17T18:19:00.000-07:00

We are super busy around here right now. Between back to school and church stuff getting kicked back up again, we have stayed on the go.

Tomorrow Bayleigh starts the 2nd grade. It is hard for me to believe that she is getting so big. But, that is another blog post. We went through all of her clothes tonight to get rid of the stuff that doesn't fit and put all her new stuff away. Wow....she has not one single pair of jeans that fit her. Thankfully, we got a bunch of new school stuff - so she is good for now. Until it gets cold. :)

Andy leaves in the morning for a week in Savannah, Georgia for a conference. He always spends the last few hours before bed the night before packing. It. drives. me. nuts. *sigh* I have done so much laundry and answered more "where is my....?" questions than I care to count. He might be back sooner than Friday if Hurricane Fay heads towards Florida before then. Then, he will be activated to wherever he is needed. Gotta love the Army life.

I am tired, so I am going to keep this short.

Here's a new layout using the Scarlet Lime kit in June and the July kit extras. :)
And here is my little man, sitting up on his very own. He's getting to be such a big boy!! It only lasted about 2 seconds, but that's okay. Mama is okay with him staying small for a lot longer. :)
Hope your week starts well!

XO

One ordinary life...

revealing! :)

checking in before checking out! :)

a mini! :)

hello there blog world....

check it!

march LRS reveal :)

your chance!! :)

hanging on....

what a day!

where did she go?!?!? :)

*chk, chk, chk*

well, boo to you!

driving by :)

really?!??! really.

pure chaos!

getting to it!

the full shebang!

the new baby in the family...

a little sneaky...

we are home... :)

ahhhh!!

sharing!

next up :)

closing it up.. :)

and he's home..... :)

summer lovin'

told you so! :)

checking in :)

quiet today...

So, yeah, ummmmm....

Drive by...

Reflective...

It's alive!! :)

Sneaky girl!

back into the swing..

Lots of news!!

So sneaky!

busy

it's about time, huh??

finally...

punked...

The cookies have left the building...

What a weekend!

Mini :)

Little Red....

Freedom!!!!

sneakaroni!

*sniffle, sniffle*

Thursday musings....

Bad groundhog!!

More, more, more

Only 9 am?!?!

There's no place like home....

Diapers. check. Clothes. check.

There he goes again....

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr....

Sneakalicious...

Gator bait!

Don't faint!

And they returned home...

grumpy babies

hello there :)

here I am.. :)

in order

on the road..

baby Crew update

sharing.... :)

Beseeching prayers!

Finally better!

Brrrrr....

Whew!

I'm still here...

well, hello there

"TAXI!"

menu Monday

I made it!! :)

Wow!

finding balance

catching up

chk, chk, chk

sniffle, sniffle