Eliza & Camille...gifts of love

Hello again!

2011-12-12T20:17:00.000-05:00

A big HELLO to all of you guys! It's been way too long since I have shown face around here. Change is never easy but it's always good. I have made some big changes in the past couple of months and looking forward to sharing new things with you guys.

How's the Christmas shopping, eating, laughing and all the wonderful hoopla going? I am addicted to shopping online. I haven't stepped foot into one store (as of yet) to do any shopping. I've gotten spoiled to shopping in my pj's with a cup of hot tea. I added some Christmas music to the blog and a temporary update, enjoy. I'll be back soon...promise (pinkie swear)!

rollin', rollin', rollin...rawhide

2011-07-18T16:55:00.000-04:00

This is a picture from the top of Amicalola Falls, one of my favorite places to visit. We enjoyed a nice day at the falls with Nana, Papa Doug and my sister-n-law and her family. Nana made a feast for lunch and the kids enjoyed jumping off muddy river banks and tip-toeing across the rocks.

If you know Bryar, you can probably already imagine why she's stripped down to her sassy pants. Hint: She doesn't know what the words stop, don't and watch out mean. LOL

There are just somethings that you don't see everyday. One of them is this!
Yep, a buckboard wagon train. Seriously?

When we were on our way from my mother-n-laws house crossing over some winding mountain roads (which led to Bryar giving a big heave-hoe in the car) on our way to Tennessee when out of nowhere, wagons! I'm not talking about just a wagon or two, or six. I'm talking about somewhere in the neighborhood of twenty to thirty wagons.

It was pretty cool to see them ride by. However, this dude, he was a bit scary.

Oh, and check out the new and improved seats in this wagon. Too funny!

I was way more than a happy camper when I saw roads signs appear for the highway. I felt like I had been trapped in Radiator Springs! LOL But, when we pulled into our hotel in Tennessee and saw this...

the trip was SOOOOOO worth it!

laughter is good for the soul

2011-07-16T11:30:00.000-04:00

If I had a nickle for every good laugh I've shared with the girls this summer, I'd be a rich gal. Between toddler conversations and a growing little first grader, it's been a hoot. When I came across this Etsy shop (rings of ruffles skirt pictured above) I couldn't help but to love the name, Lilygiggle. Not only are there patterns galore but the style of the patterns are created for true kid friendly clothing.

What kid (or adult) doesn't enjoy being cuddled with knit. It's super soft, washable, iron free goodness! The coolest thing about Lilygiggle is that she uses recycled T's for most all of her projects. Cute and eco friendly. What more could you ask for, right?

overdue

2011-07-16T00:35:00.000-04:00

Blog makeover in progress. It's WAY overdue! Be back soon :)

They're giving away....

2011-07-11T15:02:00.000-04:00

THIS!!!! Click HERE for all the details. Thanks ladies and congratulations on your new adventure! I'm proud to say that these gals are real... real friends, real moms and real Christian women. You wont find cooler craftier chics!

Ta-da!

2011-07-08T09:41:00.000-04:00

Here's the project reveal from start to finish. Did you ever think a bathroom could be this ugly? Me either!!! I loved every minute of seeing each piece of the ugly bathroom bashed, torn and demolished. So, first off, meet the crew.

Now, these are some serious hard workers. See that little one with the tool belt and the mix-matched flip flops...she's a trip!

OK, I have tried to break the pictures into groups/stages the best that I could. This project took over a month to complete so trying to condense it was tough.

Here's the ugly truth, live and in color. I don't think I need to explain any of this ugliness!

Shew, that was rough. Now, on to the better part of the remodel.

It's looking a little better at this point. Me, not so much. I had specks of white paint from head to toe after putting a primer coat on the walls. I am one messy painter!

I'm breathing much easier now. In fact, I sat right in the middle of the floor and just about cried...almost done! Did I tell you how much I love the floor? Only a thousand times, right! The bathroom was finally coming together.

And look, ta-da! The bathroom is finished. Shew...that was some serious craziness.

rough stuff

2011-06-28T23:59:00.000-04:00

Ya know that guest bathroom remodel that I mentioned a few days ago? Well, I thought I'd share a little tidbit of the project with you.

For six LONG years, I lived with this ugly pink ceramic tile...barf-o-rama!

No, it wasn't smashed into a gazillion pieces for six years. But, it should have been! This ugly pink tile (paired up with an even uglier black tile, picture to follow soon) made for one of the worlds worst looking bathrooms.

It seems like there was always something that came up that delayed getting this bathroom remodeled. For one, the master bathroom only has a stand-up shower. So, with having small kids, a tub was important. Now that Bryar has become a toddler, she's a lover of showers! So, we decided that it was time to dig in and get it done!

All of us shared our master bathroom for about a month while this project was underway. I can't tell you how many funny stories we have due to that bit of shared time - LOL! Nevertheless, it is now complete. Well, almost. It lacks a few pictures being hung.

Anyway, here's a shot of the new bathroom floor that I am totally geeky over. Wood? Nope, it's tile. Isn't it the coolest!!!! See, I'm geeky.

I'll post more pictures soon. But, this is my favorite part of the bathroom. I know, it's just a floor.

But, six years...six years and I finally have a new floor. Happy dance!!!!

get FuNkY

2011-06-27T21:22:00.000-04:00

OK photogers, get your FuNkY on...HERE! FREE shipping ends this week so hurry!!

going higher

2011-06-25T10:41:00.000-04:00

There are special moments in life where words are hard to find, emotions are flooded and your heart leaps within you.

To my dearest Roxanne, I hope you reach high, win BIG and leave footprints behind you that leave your mark.

Love,

Mama

wowsers

2011-06-21T08:36:00.000-04:00

Kidbodies is having a HUGE summer sale. Wowsers, the prices are great and the clothing is super-duper cute!

soaked

2011-06-20T15:48:00.000-04:00

There were two little girls having a blast playing in the yard this week. You'll have to excuse us but we're just country folks. We don't have any close neighbors, it's hot, their little and I'd rather not worry with putting them in a bathing suit. So, I just let them have fun in their undies.

I bought a HUGE beach ball sprinkler and the girls loved it. They splashed around, drank giant gulps of water straight from the sprayer and had a blast trying to get me wet. I grabbed the camera and took a few shots of them (and some nearby flowers) with my new lens. It takes a tight picture with a very short depth of field. Here's a few photos that I took of our wet day!

Ebay

2011-06-16T12:59:00.000-04:00

Today, I listed a ton of kids/baby shoes on Ebay. Check them out HERE!!!

popcorn...peanuts...coke

2011-06-14T10:14:00.000-04:00

Let's just say it's been kind of like a circus around here! School is out and the summer fun is in full swing. Out of town trips, VBS, summer camp, a bathroom remodel (more about it later). There is just something about the kids being at home, hearing their little giggles, funny made up stories and watching them learn how to be sisters, share, love and build a relationship between the two of them that will forever grow with them.

Those little cuties up there decided to retire from our circus and they took a trip to Utah where they would be loved and admired by my friend Kris in her new shop, My Girlfriend's Quilt Shoppe! I used this pattern that Kris now carries in her shop (online ordering will be available soon).

I hope that each one of you are enjoying your summer and that you will be inspired to get creative. Here's to happy crafting!

fresh squeezed

2011-06-01T14:17:00.000-04:00

There is so much to love about these precious photos taken by Jessica Myers. This adorable little girl, Khloee, is the daughter of a dear friend of mine. For her 1st birthday I made her this sweet lemon summer knot dress and headband. This lemon fabric has been a favorite of mine for years. Fresh squeezed hugs are in order for this sweet baby girl!

caught

2011-05-19T09:20:00.002-04:00

I caught this little guy in my bird feeder the other day. Check out that stretch...too funy!!

one day

2011-05-17T10:09:00.003-04:00

One day I will learn to quilt and when I do, I hope my quilt will look something like this one. You all know that I am a complete sucker for anything with birds on it. So, I am sure that you are not surprised that this quilt caught my eye. The colors, the layout...it's just so ME!!!

(Laura's fabrics are pretty amazing too. Love her work!)

Freebies!!

2011-05-11T15:24:00.000-04:00

What's not to love about FREE stuff?

Well, my friends Kris and Kim and giving away boo-koodles of crafting goodness for their BIRTHDAY WEEK celebration. Be sure to click on the highlighted birthday week link to be directed to their site to enter for a chance to win!

friendship

2011-05-10T13:23:00.008-04:00

friend [frend]
–noun
:A person attached to another by feelings of affection or personal regard.

I don't know at what age a child recognizes a friend. I don't know at what age a child learns to love or understands being loved. However, I do know that friendship begins in each one of us, in our heart. As I watch Roxanne in these last few days of Kindergarten, I have noticed that friendship is a very important part of her everyday happiness. It's her friends that make her happy.

As a child, I can remember summer camps, VBS and other youth oriented social events that capitalized on the value of friendship. Friendship bracelet's, pen pals, BFF's...these were all part of childhood fun. So, to make the transition into 1st grade (leaving behind her K5 friends) a little easier, I went back to my childhood and thought about what made me happy.

When I presented to her the idea of making friendship bracelet's for all of her classmates, she was thrilled. It would be something for them to keep to remember her by and to remember those fun, silly laughs that they shared. It's tough to say goodbye to friends but it's nice to know that friendship lives in your heart and it's never a goodbye, forever!

She's the queen of everything!

2011-05-02T16:58:00.002-04:00

Have you ever met someone that can create something out of anything? Have you ever sat across from someone and watched them turn a plain piece of paper into a work of art? Have you ever known someone that can tap into the Internet and create a web design that is out of this world? Have you ever laughed with someone and felt how real they are and how awesome there spirit of friendship is? I have. Everyone, check this out!

Lisa is the creator of Moxie Pear and all of its coolness. I have known Lisa for several years and the only thing that changes is that she gets better and better at what she does. She's the queen of everything I tell ya! She can sew, paper craft, design, write and she can take a photo like nobody's business! Check out Moxie Pear for some awesome unique handmade items. I'm sure your shopping cart will fill up fast!

SALE at Sandi's

2011-04-26T15:49:00.002-04:00

For all of you who love Sandi Henderson's patterns, here's your chance to get them at a great price...50% off!!!

a rainbow of pastels

2011-04-20T16:15:00.020-04:00

Spring is here and the garden center is in full bloom. It looks incredibly beautiful with all of the plants, trees and flowers bringing forth their vibrant color and beautiful foliage. We have had shipment after shipment of new plants arriving almost daily with even more to come.

The gift shop is full of bright colored garden stakes, wind chimes, outdoor flags & banners and an assortment of cute gift items. With Easter just around the corner, the gift shop is trimmed with beautiful Easter pastels. Rabbits, little chicks and Easter egg decor welcome each customer. Here's a little peak at what I've been up to at the shop!

~Neverland~

2011-04-11T14:47:00.008-04:00

Wow, it's been awhile since I've blogged. I'll blame it on Spring break :)

The kids were out of school last week so we crammed in as much fun as possible. The girls and I took a short road trip down south and visited with family and friends the first part of the week. We enjoyed our first grilled hot dog and hamburger of the season, thanks Uncle John!

When we arrived back home, Daddy had all of his girls a surprise... tickets to see Peter Pan !!! You would have thought that I was somewhere stuck in the age gap of 3 and 6 years of age, I was just as happy as the girls were. Daddy scored big!!! The show was amazing. We were in row two, center stage...it rocked!

We finished up our week with a trip to Noah's Ark with my sister-n-law and her family. Tigers, bears, snakes, birds of all kinds and a big dose of sunshine! We visited the Vet. Saturday afternoon, not so fun. Quinky, our cat, got himself into a little mischief and had battle wounds to prove it. (Mom, thanks again for your help.)

Sunday was wonderful. I packed my pew with some friends and we enjoyed a beautiful worship service together. I took in some of the sunshine from my back deck. Packed the girls school bags trying to get a jump start on the Monday madness and off to bed for some much needed rest.

Shewwwww! Well, that about sums it up. I'd love to hear about your Spring Break adventures. Just getting a break from the cold weather was enough to make me smile. We are enjoying temps in the upper 70's here in the south. I hope Mr. Sunshine is warming things us for you all as well. Take care my friends.

trim-endous

2011-03-24T11:50:00.007-04:00

It's amazing what a little trim can do. Adding decorative trim to something is so simple and gives such a stylish look. It can turn a tacky tank to into a tremendous tank in just minutes. This tank makeover took less than 20 minutes from start to finish and I love the way it turned out!

(Please excuse the dumpy pictures. You can thank indoor lighting...blahhhhh)

tweet tweet

2011-03-23T09:13:00.002-04:00

I am in love with this! This little bird makes me wanna tweet and chirp a happy song. I love birds, bird pictures, bird paper crafts, bird pillows and home decor...you get the point. The DIYDish opened season three with this fun and easy to make pincushion. Fabric designer, Joel Dewberry, was so kind to share this project from his book, Sewn Spaces. But, that's not all! There's a giveaway going on HERE for a chance to win lots of great prizes. So, spread your wings and fly on over for a chance to win!

J.S. I love you

2011-03-21T22:10:00.018-04:00

Often there are no words to describe an emotion. I find it easier sometimes to let my heart pour itself out on paper using a paint brush and not a pen. So, call me quirky, but it works for me. Creating something is somehow my way of letting my heart breath. I know it sounds strange but it is true. There is a physical release of energy that allows me to vent my feelings.

After meeting Donna Downey a few times at an art conference and taking her classes. I have grown to love her way of expressing her thoughts in her work. I am totally fed by her. She is a unique person and somehow, though we are so different, I learn from her. Not so much her technique (I still need lots of practice) but the way her heart beats, her passion if you will.

So, this is how I spent a good portion of my weekend, creating something for a dear friend. Emotions, paint, emotions, paint...you get the picture. J.S. (Jamie Sue) I love you. Hope you enjoy this little piece of my heart!

welcome

2011-03-19T22:51:00.002-04:00

Spring is here and not moment too soon!

This weekend I spent a little time working on a fun project. I'll share the details soon!

See a penny, pick it up...

2011-03-16T17:32:00.003-04:00

...and all the day you'll have good luck! Who has ever heard that little jingle before? Well, thanks to my creative friend, Lisa and a little luck of the Irish, it's true! Get your FREE printable download HERE.

not your grandmothers kind of knitting

2011-03-15T11:53:00.004-04:00

Click HERE to see how to make yarn become more than just mittens and baby doll dresses.

Lets hear it for the boys!

2011-03-08T18:36:00.002-05:00

So, anybody out there thinkin' what I'm thinkin'? Yep, that's right...ADORABLE!!!

Get your FREE pattern here!

"My Mama made it"

2011-03-07T16:37:00.005-05:00

There are little sayings that each one of us mother's love to hear our children say. Some of my most favorite are obviously those sweet I love you's and kisses that speak volumes.

However, there is a special place in my heart for the times that my little ones respond to others with, "My Mama made it". It melts my heart everytime!

*You can make yours too...HERE!*

so chic

2011-03-05T09:20:00.005-05:00

Now this is what a call riding in style! I would love to have one of these for myself, motorized of course. I can just picture it...warm sunshine, scarf blowing in the wind, shopping bags and totes adorning my arms...LOL! A girl can dream, right?

Isn't this just the cutest little girls trike. Another great find from Zulily!

Rock on!

2011-03-04T09:26:00.003-05:00

If you haven't ever checked out Zulily, it's time that you did. They have lots of unique things for infants, toddlers, kids, women and even some things for the home/office. I found these adorable guitar back packs while browsing around. Aren't they just the cutest!

We're cheesey!!

2011-02-28T17:32:00.000-05:00

So, we're a little cheesey. But hey, for Kim and Kris, we are letting our true colors show! I have entered this video for the Epic 6 giveaway over at the DIYdish.com. Wish us luck!

runny lines

2011-02-25T10:27:00.007-05:00

For many years I have loved to play with those little Crayola paint sets that we all used as kids. I try my best to not allow the colors to bleed so much but in the end I always seem to have a mess. I admit, they are intimidating! LOL

So, the other day while in Hobby Lobby (you're shocked, right), I noticed a set of water color pencils...aaaahhhhh! Did I mention the set was 1/2 off....double aaaahhhhh!! Needless to say, they made their way home with me.

Like a kid that can't wait to open their new toy, I started playing as soon as I got home. They were pretty cool! The water color pencils offer a more controlled way to water color. You draw the art and then use a small wet brush to add blended areas of color. It was pretty fun. I am soooo not the best at it and need lots of helpful tips. I did come up with that little doodle flower thing-a-ma-jig up there. A little different, but fun, in a good way.

It ended up this this. What'cha think?

cut the fat

2011-02-15T15:12:00.012-05:00

Am I the only one who just about has a fit, when that one time of year comes along and you see Girl Scouts out selling those delicious cookies? Yes, I am the lady that will buy 10 boxes and not think twice. My absolute favorite are the Samoas.

Following them in a very close second place are the Do-Si-Dos.

So, I bet your just shocked that this yummy goodness jumped into my grocery cart, right?

The best part about it is that you can top it with this and still have added O fat grams!! Seriously, I could eat this for every meal...Yum-O!

all wrapped up...

2011-02-14T13:35:00.004-05:00

...in love!

Happy Valentine's Day to the man I'd marry all over again. It seems like the time has passed so quickly. Thirteen+ years, two beautiful children and a home that is blessed with love. Although the chocolate, sweet mushy cards and sappy love songs are nice, they do not compare with the everyday love that we share as a family. Romeo, Romeo, Oh, how I love thee.

inspiration weekend

2011-02-12T11:08:00.005-05:00

I love to be inspired by others. Creativity makes me hApPy! This video is all of what I love. Hmmm...the weather (55*+) may just be nice enough today that I can grab my painting supplies and have some fun. The girls love it when we paint together. I always like their art so much better than my own. Happy Inspiration Weekend!

(You may have to click on the "watch on YouTube" link)

tools

2011-02-09T09:55:00.005-05:00

There are all kinds of kitchen tools that I reach for every now and then. There are some that I just use for baking, others for making salads and then there are tools like this that I use almost daily.

There is just something about fresh garlic. Yes, I know, there is the smell of garlic. However, there is a wonderful aroma of garlic being cooked that I am somewhat addicted to. I add it to pizza, chicken, spaghetti, bread, soup, pasta, fish...you name it!

If you've never tried using fresh garlic while cooking, you're missing out. There are tons of great health benefits from garlic as well. Be sure to add garlic to your grocery list. It's a must have!

at last

2011-02-07T13:28:00.000-05:00

Two beautiful people, one fabulous wedding and a song that says it all!

stick it

2011-02-02T15:35:00.002-05:00

For the love of Pete! Can a teddy bear get any cuter than this little chocolate covered bundle of love? I think not! Check out Bakerella's Valentine goodies HERE. She's also got a little freebie that you just might want. Stick it to 'em this Valentine's Day with some delicious cake pops!

photos from Bakerella.com

sassy red hat (or black)

2011-01-27T10:03:00.001-05:00

You're never too old to have fun, right? Roxy's school is celebrating 100 days of school by dressing like you're 100 years old. She decided to kick up her heels and join the classy ladies in the Red Hat Society for this event. Nothing beats putting a smile on your face at 100 years old and greeting the world with a little sass!

cake, cake and more cake

2011-01-26T23:23:00.004-05:00

There is one advantage to having your child's birthday just a few days after your own...cake!!! We have had lots and lots of yummy birthday cake keeping our bodies well sugared over the past week. Then, as if we needed more, I made these last night.

Aren't they cute!! Don't let their cuteness fool you. They are a PAIN to make. Not so much the shaping of them as the decorating. I must confess, they're worth the mess. Just don't try to start making your Cake Pops at 10:00pm. If so, you'll be up til around 1:30(ish)am. So with little sleep I am headed to bed.

Birthday's are fun and I am thankful for each one of them. To my princess Roxanne, I love you! Her and I share January as our birthday month. I'm such a lucky mom. Not very many mom's can enjoy a double birthday date with their daughter. Roxanne, I loved you before I even met you and I love you more each and every day. Happy Birthday, baby girl! XOXOXOX Mama

dreaming

2011-01-25T08:32:00.002-05:00

So, has anyone tried the new Silhouette SD? I would so love to have one of my own!

detox

2011-01-24T08:20:00.004-05:00

I am in serious need of some detox of the mind, body and soul. I will be starting The Daniel Fast on February 1st. Care to join me? We are just weeks into the new year. I thought it would be a great time to couple of fresh start with a fresh body and renewed spirit.

33

2011-01-21T11:47:00.002-05:00

It went a little something like this...too funny!

It's not every day...

2011-01-20T08:35:00.005-05:00

...that you receive one of these from a special someone. Wrapped in it's unique little blue box, this gift is perfect for carrying around little essentials like

your keys, debit card and some spare change. But it's also great for carrying extra special things, like...

A sweet note from your Mom. Thanks, Mama. I love you too!

And, it's not everyday that you get a beautiful birthday card (picked out by your father-n-law, wink, wink) that blows your socks off. Not only were the words beautiful but the card itself was absolutely dazzling. Bright lime green damask print with a sheen of silver. Bubbly pink embellishments and a pretty bright pink ribbon. It's been my favorite so far! Thank you Rick & Lorraine for your kind gift and birthday wishes!

And, it's not everyday that you get 1/2 a dozen bold birthday balloons with long curly strings, fresh glazed doughnuts and cards galore from everyone in the house. Thanks Romeo for an awesome morning birthday surprise! And to my sweet little girls...thank you. Thank you for the awesome drawings of a birthday cake (Roxanne) and a rocket and a puppy dog (Bryar). Birthday cards are always extra special when they have a handmade drawing inside. You little girls are the best and I love you!

Thanks everyone for making my birthday so bright and blessed. And to think...it's only 9:00am! It's gonna be a GOOD birthday day today!!

they are the queen of hearts

2011-01-18T10:46:00.002-05:00

They're back and they have got some super cool stuff to share with all of us! Be sure to check out the latest episode of the DIYdish!

survivor

2011-01-17T09:14:00.003-05:00

Once again, I survived the Gift Mart....sheeewwww. Oh, and I shopped in record time, only 6 hours! LOL I think I am starting to get the hang of it. Boy oh boy is spring going to be glorious around the garden center. The gift shop is going to be spilling over with unique gifts of all kinds. There's a sneak peek up there at one of the items that will be added to the gift shop. I've dedicated an entire display to GIRLS!!! Girls birthday's, teen pop, tweens, moms and lots of other girlie fun! I'll be sure to post more picture once our shipments are in and the displays are up.

I hope you all had a fabulous weekend. Mine was perfect, just me and my Romeo! The snow/ice is still lingering in spots but for the most part it is back to normal in the south. School is out today for MLK and the girls and I are taking full advantage of a day of fun. Dirty dishes, piles of laundry, unmade beds...see ya later, we're leaving you behind. So, off we go!

frozen fun

2011-01-14T09:51:00.001-05:00

Looking for a way to brighten up a cold winter day?

Go HERE to find out how to make this piece of frozen fun!

GQ, in a small package

2011-01-13T15:57:00.002-05:00

Don't tell me that boys can't be "dolled up"! Go HERE to get this GQ look for your little guy.

I'm here...with ice and silly faces!

2011-01-12T00:48:00.001-05:00

holiday haze

2010-12-28T13:08:00.007-05:00

I am still breaking down boxes, untwisting toys from their store housing and tinkering with wonderful gifts of all kinds. Ahhhhh, Christmas! It seems to be the one time of year that things on the outside, the fast paced lives we lead and the everyday routine seems to vanish and all good things stand still to linger and enjoy.

The Christmas cookies, fudge and pecan pie make me smile. I enjoy every moment of the wonderful church programs spreading good tidings and great cheer of our Saviours birth. The smell of the winter cold wind is refreshing but yet stinging at the same time. The look of the white snow dusting the ground and the tops of houses was a pleasant southern Christmas surprise. There is just no sweeter sound than two little girls giddy and full of anticipation dashing to the living room to see what Santa has left for them. Good times!

I hope that each of you enjoyed Christmas and all of it's splendor. I am looking forward to 2011. I am looking for new and exciting things. Out with the old and in with the new. I'm cleaning house physically and emotionally. Sometimes you've just got to replace that picture on the wall with something a little more appealing. Not that the picture was broke, ugly or defective in anyway. It was just that you needed a change of scenery. So, 2011, I welcome you!

Santa Clause is Comin' to Town!

2010-12-22T11:44:00.003-05:00

These two little love bugs just can't wait for Santa to arrive! They are getting so excited about the gifts that Santa will bring to them. I love their innocent and imaginative minds that create such wonderful magic about Santa and his elves. I hope that the spirit of Christmas and all of it's magic is swirling and twirling like sugar plums dancing in the heads of your little ones as well.

drum roll

2010-12-20T12:29:00.002-05:00

.......Congratulations to Cheri and Kris for winning the "Frosty" giveaway! I love what both of you said about your family traditions. So girls, take a look HERE at these wonderful embellishment goodies and let me know what item you'd like to have. I'll have it shipped right to you! Thanks again for posting such wonderful holiday traditions. Merry Christmas!

messy perfection

2010-12-16T09:00:00.004-05:00

It's quite a palace isn't it? This is a work of a labor of love. Despite the sticky fingers, shifting gingerbread and sprinkles galore, this was by far one of my favorites. It's not easy to achieve perfection without getting a little messy. The girls were up to their elbows in icing. Each of them put such thought in exactly where they wanted to place the candy and sprinkles. This my friend, is PERFECTION!

frosty

2010-12-15T13:12:00.002-05:00

Brrrrr.....! Are you guys feeling the cold blast from Old Man Winter as well? These below average temps here in the south are fierce! Don't get me wrong, I do love winter, much more so than summer. I love the layered look and it's the only time of year that you can use your breath and your fingers to make silly faces and shapes on glass windows.

So, how many of you can say that you're DONE with your Christmas list? I have bought for everyone except Mr. Roe. He's kind of like Santa. If he wants it, it seems to magically appear or he goes out to his shop and makes it. Sooooo....I am lost on what to do. The kids are getting more and more giddy everyday. Bryar brings me a present form under the tree almost hourly and ask if it's Christmas yet. Poor kid!

Anyone out there still carry on a family tradition? If so, share it with me. I always love to hear how people celebrate Christmas. Hmmmm.....maybe a giveaway is in order. Post a comment and I'll make this fun!

whisper

2010-12-09T11:29:00.002-05:00

There is something in this piece of art that speaks to me. The funny thing about it is...hello, my background for my blog is so matchy-matchy with this! That in itself says alot. :)

Check out how Donna made this piece come to life HERE.

holiday goodies

2010-12-06T15:12:00.003-05:00

My friends Kris and Kim have got a great Christmas celebration happening over at the DIYdish blog. They are celebrating the 12 days of Christmas with some fun holiday goodies. Be sure to check out what they have posted. Yummy recipes, paper crafts & the basics of how to make a beautiful bow to top your gifts. These two girls know just how to turn simple into sensational!

Love handmade?

2010-12-01T09:25:00.002-05:00

If you love handmade goodies, you've gotta come over HERE and see what my dear friend Lisa is up to. She's the most clever gal in all of blog land. She's introducing her new podcast, the All Things Handmade Holiday Show. So, stay tuned over at her blog for the best of the best this Christmas gift giving season!

WWJD

2010-11-30T16:03:00.007-05:00

A few years ago there was a very popular saying that led to bags, t-shirts, wrist bands and other items being printed in large quantities and sold by retailers everywhere. The saying was, "What would Jesus do?" or WWJD. As catchy as this phrase was, I decided to use it to ask yet another question. "What would Jackson do?" I know, who/what is Jackson, right? Well, let me give you the scoop...

Jackson is a precious five year old little boy with a smile that will knock you socks off. He's one of Roxy's kindergarten buds. Not only is Jackson full of charm, giggle bugs and a love for Mario Brothers, but his life is filled with lots of other not so fun stuff as well

Take a minute to watch this video and see just how Jackson's day to day life is. Ask yourself, "What would Jackson do...with a cure, without insulin or with failing kidneys? The questions are endless. If possible, please donate to his team. I have done so and I hope that you will do the same.

you

2010-11-25T09:47:00.005-05:00

With a full heart and soon to be a full belly, I want to wish each one of you a very happy Thanksgiving. As we give thanks for so many things, don't overlook yourself. Day in and day out, we go about our busy lives and never stop to say thank you to ourselves. I am thankful for my health, my ability to love, the characteristics that make me who I am and the purpose that I have been given to make a difference in life. Without each one of you having similar qualities, you would not be the great wives, mothers and friends that you are.

table talk

2010-11-23T16:45:00.001-05:00

Want to get some conversation started around the table? This will do the trick!

You think I can sew up a 1/2 dozen tonight? Nahhh, me either...LOL!

Thanksgiving favorites!

2010-11-18T09:20:00.003-05:00

Why is it that there are certain foods that we make at Thanksgiving that we never seem to make any other time of year? I guess that may be part of what makes the Thanksgiving feast so special. I can remember as a child, different dishes that family members would add to the spread on Thanksgiving day. It would make me so excited that my Mom, or one of my aunts or my grandma made that certain dish that I loved so much. It just wouldn't have been the same without it.

I still have a couple of my favorites that I love for others to make and a few of my own that I make for my family. So, when I saw these recipe cards, I knew they would be perfect for a little Thanksgiving gift. If you know of friends and family members that rave about one of your special dishes, fill out one of the recipe cards, make a special dish of it up for them and attach the recipe card to it...an instant Thanksgiving gift!

filling & feelings

2010-11-16T12:39:00.003-05:00

Each year as the cheer of the Christmas season arrives, as a family we always make it a point to share in giving to others. It's become somewhat of a tradition in our home to participate in Operation Christmas Child.

(I also included some of the children and their families from our church to help out this year. We were able to send a total of 7 boxes to this wonderful charity.)

My Dad and I took my girls shopping and let them pick out appropriate items to fill their shoebox gift. Their faces were full of excitement and their voices chirped as they busily picked items from the shelves. With tiny baby dolls, toothbrushes, pen sets, small puzzles,Play Doh and many other items, we were ready to start filling up our shoebox gift package.

Once we were finished we wrote a letter about ourselves and tucked it into the package before shipping it off. Roxanne was full of questions about who might get the box, what their name would be, where they lived and so on. I could tell that her feelings and emotions were tender. It was such a sweet moment to watch her faith and hope build in her as she put forth such effort into something, only trusting my words that it would be delivered, but to whom...we knew not. Wow, that's a lesson all by itself!

I hope that you will take the time to give a smile, a hug, a small donation of your time and energy or simply just a prayer for those in need. Though the holidays come and go, those who have needs carry those needs year round. Just something to think about.

beautiful blues

2010-11-12T23:48:00.003-05:00

Meet Drew! He's the cutest little dude in south Georgia and he's gotta thing for fishin'. Those beautiful blue eyes are enough to make any heart melt. Love ya, Drew!

kindness = a smile

2010-11-11T11:09:00.005-05:00

I purchased a new vacuum a couple of months ago. I am weird, but I like certian features on a vacuum. If I'm going to take the time to clean, I want it done right the first time. I can't stand to use products that just can't "cut the funk!" Watery liquids, soap that doesn't suds, streaky cleaning solutions...you get the point. So, when I purchased my vacuum, I wanted all those fancy attachments, the HEPA filter, bagless and so on.

Anyway, the other day while vacuuming with my turbo brush attachment, it fell from it's holder onto the floor and busted. I felt like I just lost my best friend. I use that crazy brush tool on everything. Seriously, with it's high powered spin you could ride on the thing if it were a little larger. It's got some powerful suction along with a fast spinning brush...LOVE it!

I immediately emailed Bissell to see how I needed to go about ordering a replacement turbo brush. To my surprise, I recieved a very customer friendly reply to my email to notify me that Bissell was going to replace the turbo brush at no cost! Talk about a smile, I was beaming! Thanks Bissell, your customer service is awesome!

the countdown is on...

2010-11-10T15:11:00.003-05:00

Check out my friend Lisa's blog for a handmade holiday!

it's a comin'

2010-11-04T22:04:00.003-04:00

Oh yeah, this is soon to be hanging in my closet. Well, my version anyway. I'll keep ya updated on how it turns out. This is gonna be fun! Wanna join me?

(photo by Ruffles & Stuff)

special delivery

2010-11-03T09:16:00.003-04:00

It's an amazingly peaceful rainy day here in the south. The girls are both at school. I am working on ads for magazine publications for the garden center. The washer is swishing and the dryer is buzzing. Lots of house work to be done. Not so much the cleaning of it but the need to organize and ready my house for the holiday craziness of decking the halls!

There is a very special delivery that is expected to arrive today. My dear friends, Heather and Sam are patiently awaiting to see their little baby boy. Owen will by their first baby and he is already loved so much. I was thrilled when Heather asked me to take her maternity photos. Fun times are always best when shared with friends!

vintage therapy

2010-11-02T09:07:00.005-04:00

These two ladies are fun, full of creativity and absolutely the best vintage shoppers on a $300.00 budget. Nate Berkus invited my friends Kris and Kim on his show for a design challenge. It was a true challenge to say the least. When I talked to Kris before she headed to NY to be on the show, I could hear the excitement in her voice and I could not wait to see the big reveal. Take a look at what they did when they turned trash to treasure with some unique finds.

I am so glad to see these girls living their dream of being ordinary people with extraordinary talent that they want to share with others. They are both such loving people with a heart to bring a smile to each and every person that they meet. You ladies did a fantastic job. I think I was just as excited when I saw your bright and cheerful faces on the show. Way to go girls!

sugar high

2010-11-01T09:41:00.014-04:00

I am sure that most all of you felt the rush of a sugar high at some point over the weekend. We started our Halloween sugar rush by making spooky chocolate suckers. Then we headed to the craft room to make these fun mummy treat bags...

(mummy picture from swakembroidery.com)

and tagging behind two little monkeys as they went trick-or-treating.

(big sis. was trying to get little sis. to look at the camera...way cute)

We had a great time seeing lots of Halloween costumes as we made our way through the crowd of goblins. I hope that you all enjoyed your weekend of Halloween fun!

Sew, this is it!

2010-10-29T16:38:00.011-04:00

You may have guessed by the picture of the boxes in my previous post that I was getting a bit organized. I was in such need of a little organization, oh so badly. All you crafter's out there know that your crafting space is most of the time, less than desirable. That is unless you are in the high end of being a designer of some sort. But, for all of us crafty moms that do it for a hobby, therapy and just for simple pleasure, our space is easily cluttered and overtaken by our children or "little crafter's" as I like to call them.

I moved into Bryar's old room/nursery after the girls decided to share a bedroom together. As you can see in the "before" pictures, the mural on the wall kind of gives it away that the space was in need of a makeover. With limited time and funds, I had put the project off for quite some time. Once it had developed into the mad mess that you see, I had to regain my territory.

Yes, it was quite embarassing to say least.

Thank goodness I could shut the door to this eye sore when needed! LOL

So, a trip to Ikea was in order. I needed lighting, organization and a kid friendly atmosphere that would blend well in a creative space. I decided to go a little brighter and bolder in my accent colors, and spruce things up a bit. Along with new lighting and a wonderful organizing cube, I added shelving, painted a chalkboard on the wall for the kids and moved other things around a little to stretch the space. The bright colors in the rug are so fun and the small kids table & chair set is perfect for my little crafter's.

We are so much more comfortable in our new space. It's not a show room nor does it compare to other crafting spaces that I have seen. However, it works and the view is awesome! I'm not sure why I didn't move to a window view sooner.

Everything has it's own place, the kids art and creations can be displayed on the shelves and on the art wire. The chalkboard is super fun and I love to hear the girls giggle as they draw.

There's a great guy behind this project that helped me pull it all together.

Mr. Roe, I am so in love with you!

I've gone batty

2010-10-28T08:37:00.003-04:00

There is nothing cute about bats in my opinion. That was, until I saw these bats that Heather Bailey created. Seriously, she can take one of the most ugly creatures and give it such character and charm that it becomes cute! Oh, and the best part...it's FREE!!!

**I noticed that for some reason my blog is playing this crazy rap music that just sort of breaks in. I am not sure where it is coming from, I pray it's not a virus. I have checked my playlist and there are no added song titles. So, please excuse any "off color" lyrics/music.**

giggling guzzeling goblins

2010-10-26T21:22:00.004-04:00

Make a little swamp juice for those giggling goblin's to guzzle while enjoying festive Halloween parties with friends!

It's a boo-tiful day!

2010-10-25T10:43:00.009-04:00

What a fabulous weekend. The weather was great here in the sunny south. Decorating pumpkins, birthday and Halloween celebrations, Christmas shopping (sounds weird inserted here) and yes, I finally completed my craft project. All of these things and lots of other family fun made for my favorite kind of fall bliss.

So, most of you probably thought that I would never finish the craft project that I started several weeks ago. The truth is, I didn't either. There wasn't anything difficult about the project, it was just that I could not find the time (all of 30 minutes) to finish it up. Crazy, I know.

Here's the quick version on how the project came together. After watching this episode of the DIYdish. I decided to take the challenge and create a little "boo-tiful" Halloween wall hanging.

Supplies

3 open center round Styrofoam circles

flat wooden letters B, O,O

a dowel rod

glitter (orange, green, purple & black)

black acrylic paint

glue/school glue

fishing line

ribbon/toile for hanging

yarn needle

When I unpacked my supplies at home, I headed outside b/c I knew things were gonna get sparkly! I used acrylic paint (black) on the wooden letters and the dowel rod. Then, one by one, I covered the front and sides of each Styrofoam circle in white glue and then sprinkled on the glitter. I did the same thing for my letters. Then I allowed them to dry overnight.

Then, "several" days later, I tied each letter with fishing line and threaded the line to a large needle and fed it through the inside of the circle to the top. I tied a knot in the fishing line to secure the letter. I wanted the letters to appear to be hanging in mid-air. After each letter was secured to each circle, I used some black toile and tied them to the dowel rod...tada!

I'm such a tease

2010-10-24T14:59:00.005-04:00

the sister hood

2010-10-19T13:23:00.003-04:00

Meet my new sisters! It just doesn't get any better than these gals. They are full of lots of laughs, beautiful and crazy fun to be with. And guess what that means...I'm not the only child anymore. It has taken many, many years for God to answer my prayer for a sibling. Since I had to wait so long, he quadrupled the blessing and now I have four! Jesus, you rock!! :)

failure of sorts

2010-10-13T10:46:00.005-04:00

OK, lets get the bad out of the way...I failed! Yep, that crafty project of mine is still yet to be complete. However, have no fear, I've been busy with another HUGE project. It just kind of became a project out of nowhere. It's something that has needed to be checked off the to-do list for some time, but I just kept putting it off. Well, this week I got my little hands dirty and I've got it checked off my list!

Anyway, am I making you hungry with that picture up there? Talk about a super-fab meal! Hello, I could eat my weight in that broccoli salad and we were all licking our sticky fingers after enjoying some home made BBQ. The house smelt heavenly and the taste of that BBQ was absolutely amazing.

I;m not making any promises, but I'll post pictures when my crafty project is complete and also some of what I've been up to!

happily ever after

2010-10-06T16:26:00.004-04:00

And I am just now starting to regain control of my home, emotions and loss of sleep. So, in case your wondering...yes, the dresses got finished, the newly weds are off to a wonderful start on their honeymoon. The bride was a beautiful princess, the groom was a studly king and the moment was spectacular.

I can't believe that it is Wednesday already. There are still lots of fun things going on this week. Nana will be here to visit soon, date night with Mr. Roe at an art auction, craft room re-do is underway, fall decorating and planting to do and cleaning out of closets to make room for those snugly winter clothes is also on the "to-do" list. I hope you all are having a marvelous week! More wedding pictures to come. Oh, and my project...one more day, please :)

*To a very dear friend (you know who you are), good luck and I am thinking of you.*

pass the sparkles

2010-10-01T00:00:00.004-04:00

Enjoy your weekend and take some time to get a little creative. Halloween is just around the corner and I've got a "boo-tiful" project to show you guys next week. Hopefully I can finish it up by Wednesday. As Roxy says, "Pass the sparkles" and boy did we ever!

I love this fun crafting video. Talk about an art studio. Wow, now if I could get my party house (the outside is finished, yeah!) to look like that...so cool!

Oh, check out those buttons on her cardigan, way fun!

Tootles :)

my brain didn't get the memo

2010-09-28T16:27:00.005-04:00

Although I've known for months that my mom is getting married this Friday, apparently my brain did not get the memo. Why is it just now dawning on me that I have not shopped nor thought about making the girls an outfit. I have a shirt and shrug picked out for myself but no matching skirt, shoes, etc. So, it is Tuesday afternoon and I have to get movin'!

I am not sure why I did not think of all of this sooner. My mom and I have talked everyday for the last month about wedding events. I have looked at the wedding invitation on the fridge for days. I guess my brain was too full to process any additional information. Well, I'm off to sew. Wish me luck!

Oh, and the cute little pup up there is our newest addition...Cocoa!

room for two

2010-09-27T17:49:00.005-04:00

Several months ago we decided to redo the girls bedrooms, making a room for two. Bryar was transitioning from her crib into a "big girl" bed and Roxy was in love with the idea of sharing a room with her sister. After searching department stores and online retailers I settled on the idea of using an owl theme for their room. This theme caught my attention because it was still whimsical enough to be kidish but something that they could grow with for several years.

As I scurried around their room the other day, picking up socks, pj's, scattered books and other items, it dawned on me that I had never posted pictures of their room. So, I quickly made their beds and grabbed the camera. The sprinklers were spraying outside their window, the lighting wasn't the best and their room still needs a few accessories and window treatments. Maybe in my spare time that will get accomplished (BIG chuckle)!

tree hugger

2010-09-23T09:55:00.003-04:00

This little sweetheart looks like she's right at home! Roxanne jumped in my lap while I was watching this how to video and drooling over the talent of
two of my favorite crafters over at the DIY Dish.
Roxy wanted to make one of these cute little owls...RIGHT THEN! So, we headed to the craft room and in about an hour, our creation was sitting pretty and picture perfect!

pink dino

2010-09-22T09:28:00.009-04:00

You might remember this blog post about my little Bryar turning three. She gets me so tickled with her love for dinosaurs. I am sure there are other little girls who have somewhat of a love for "boys toys". I can remember Roxy being in love with Spiderman around the same age. Here are a few pictures of the birthday girl, as promised.

That fun little dino applique on her shirt was a hit! Try finding a girly dino shirt in a department store...not gonna happen! Thank you SWAK.com for your huge selection of embroidery designs. I love your site and I was thrilled to find the perfect dino applique and have it downloaded to my computer and my project started in less than 5 minutes!

The pink dino cake was cute but lacked a little professional quality. Publix was the only bakery that I could find a not so scary dino cake. I have always been pleased with their cakes but this one needed a little TLC. LOL

Bryar has the best big sister. Roxy surprised her with a toy dino. The two of them had so much fun playing together with the dino and a few other birthday gifts. Cake, giggles and birthday hugs & kisses...such fun!

goodbye

2010-09-20T09:23:00.003-04:00

My motivation level is at zero today and I am not sure that I can gear myself up for much more than a three as a high score. I know, it's pretty pathetic, really. The kids are off to school (Thanks, Tommy!) and I am sitting here snuggled in my robe with my laptop. This is somewhat of a reward moment to myself for using part of my weekend to complete my chore list.

The brisk mornings and the cool night air are sure signs that fall is almost here. We will say goodbye to summer and embrace fall with open arms. I purchased the kids Halloween costumes last week. Our order of pumpkins arrived at the garden center a few days ago and the girls now have spooky glow in the dark hand soap in their bathroom. Now I've just got to dig out my fall decor!

I hope that you all had a wonderful weekend. I am excited about some fun things that we've got going on over here this week. I'll share some of them soon. Oh, and I finally took a few pictures of the girls room. Remember that "redo"that I posted about months ago. Enjoy your Monday!

hoot-hoot hooray!

2010-09-17T10:02:00.002-04:00

It doesn't take much to make me happy! I just had to share this with you.

Enjoy your weekend :)

the smell of fall

2010-09-14T09:25:00.005-04:00

So, your given a bag of fresh picked apples. What would you do with them? Well, I didn't have to think about it very long. In my opinion, there are not to many apple recipes that make my taste buds shout like my Gram's Apple Platter. Yum-O! Seriously, it is truly one of my favorites.

So, I rolled out the dough, peeled and sliced the apples, added a bunch of sugar and cinnamon and baked it until golden brown. It smelt like apple heaven in the house. When it was finished baking and it had cooled, I drizzled it with a sweet almond glaze...ahhhhh!

So, what would you have done with the apples? I know you all must have some favorites in your recipe boxes!

feelin' the love

2010-09-13T10:19:00.004-04:00

There are some people in life that can make a hug stretch from north to south and never lose a bit of it's warmth, charm and squeezableness (if that's a word). I can't say thank you enough to my dear friend Kris, for allowing me to feel as though I never missed a beat, when truly I missed it by a long shot.

Kris, your blog post sent me on a roller coaster of emotions from smiling, to crying, to laughing and back through the cycle again when I listened to this song. I want you to know that this song is an inspiration and tells how a mother feels, using such simple words. Kris, thank you for sharing this with me...time to go dance!

it's about time

2010-09-10T08:59:00.003-04:00

Shew...what a week! It's feels crazy that I haven't been over here to blog in so long. Believe me, it isn't because there hasn't been anything to blog about! LOL I've got a list of projects that I would like to complete by the end of the month. Wish me luck! Until then, here's a link to one of those projects that I would like to check off of my list. Care to join me?

Boo-tiful

2010-09-01T10:54:00.006-04:00

The shop is all decorated for fun times this fall! Spook-tacular spider rings and necklaces, glitter & glam Halloween decor, peaceful pilgrims, perfectly plump pumpkins, flickering candles and boo-tiful wall hangings. I think I'll hang up a cinnamon broom to add a little spice to the air!

Yes! A thousand times, yes.

2010-08-31T16:44:00.002-04:00

This has got to be one of the most creative and fun aprons I have ever seen. Love it and I love Donna's work. Yes, I would wear this...daily!

age is more than just a number

2010-08-30T08:54:00.005-04:00

To some of us, age is just something that we would like to regulate based upon feelings. For instance, there are times that I think it would be fun to be 18 again. However, there are other times that I think back at age 18 and cringe. So, we have a way of wanting to regulate our age according to the moment, according to the feeling of youth that grabs at our hearts and according to emotions that flow from remembrance of times past.

Saturday we celebrated Bryar's 3rd birthday (pictures soon). No big party, just us, simple. Yes, we decorated, had a dinosaur cake (per her request), gifts and cards, balloons and lots of laughter. For the first time, it clicked with Bryar as to what a birthday was all about. She will proudly tell you that she is three without hesitating a bit. She'll throw up three fingers just to make sure that you understand how important being three really is. LOL

Happy birthday to my beautiful Bryar. She inspires me to laugh when things go wrong, make silly faces when people are watching, be a little less poised in front of the camera, be a little sassy and a whole'lotta giggly and to appreciate the little things that are more her level, acorns, rocks and earth worms to name a few. I love you!

blue

2010-08-27T09:45:00.003-04:00

We've all got the change of season junk here at the Roe house, sinus infections galore. However, I am happy to welcome fall. Little Bryar will celebrate her 3rd birthday this Saturday. She requested a blue (her favroite color) teddy bear when asked what she would like for a birthday gift. I found this funny little guy at Target. I knew it would be perfect for little Bryar. I'm not sure if it's the sinus meds or just my ability to be easily entertained, but I thought it was rather funny!

thirty something

2010-08-23T19:08:00.002-04:00

Ok, so I'm thirty something and I think I have somewhat gained the right to express my thoughts, feeling and emotions openly. Why? Well, because I'm old enough to know what is right and wrong, young enough to see the silly things and join in on the fun and content enough to be myself whether I appear to be popular to some or unpopular to others.

I have noticed myself being a little more observant the past few months, no particular reason I guess. It may just be that my kids are able to sit still in a shopping cart long enough for me to notice things around me instead of wiping snotty noses, finding lost passy's, mixing formula bottles while sorting through my coupons and all the other mama with youngins' stuff!

So, I now know that my kids are not the only ones who have ever whined for what seamed like eternity in a very quiet Michael's craft store. They are also not the only ones who have left Target with tears because the slushy machine was out of order. I am a sucker for buying things just because it has a bird on it. I talk to my mom everyday, on purpose. I do not like the smell of dog droppings while shopping at PetSmart. I like paint, I love fabric and I need to stop my addiction to both of these things. I pretty much can't stand the offensive smell of awful perfume, seriously, did you bathe in it? Tiny diapers and baby blankets are missed terribly. I see others my age and think to myself how old they are starting to look. I look at myself and think the same thing at times. I love chocolate, ice cream and cheesecake and I could eat it all at once and not feel the least bit guilty. I hate to cook cheap food, I hate to buy cheap linens and I hate cheap toilet paper with a passion. A child that shows no respect to an adult makes me wanna hurl. Tulips are my favorite flower. One day I will buy something for myself at Tiffany's. I can not stand the look of white pumps on my feet. Baby ducks have got to be the cutest things ever. Old pictures make me laugh. Life is full of adventure, a little laughter, a few tears and heap of hugs and kisses.

That about sums it up. I could go on, but I've got a spunky little two year old who is asking me to come and play. And that my friend, it something I love!

sew baby

2010-08-20T14:33:00.004-04:00

So, I was in my craft studio dinkin' around with some of my supplies and before I knew it, I was totally stitchin' my way into baby bliss. To me, baby items are some of the most fun things to create. Two blankets, a snugly, a burp cloth and this cute little thing was what came out of my blissful baby sewing. I stitched out this little design with my embroidery machine on the rump of a onesie. Can you say..."so stinkin' adorable!"

time for an update

2010-08-19T13:15:00.002-04:00

OK, so I've been a little absent...sorry 'bout that. My brain has been in overdrive trying to prepare the garden center and gift shop with new merchandise for fall. Some of our new items arrived today and they are "spook-tacular!" I will be spending some time at the shop this weekend taking down displays and setting up new ones. My creative side has a list for Mr. Roe of things that I need either cut, painted or made by hand...he's gonna love me (NOT!).

**Oh yea, Lisa is working on getting the garden center's web page up and running. I can't wait to share it with you. It's gorgeous, totally gorgeous!**

mine?

2010-08-13T09:28:00.003-04:00

A girl can dream, right? If I thought that I could find blue shoes that are as cute as these, it wouldn't be right not to have the flowers!

Yum!

2010-08-11T11:18:00.016-04:00

OK, so I think I have found the coolest little gadget ever! Well, at least in the eyes of Roxy & Bryar it is. We are total Zoku freaks! I picked up this amazing Popsicle maker a couple of weeks ago and we put it it to the test.

The girls decided they wanted strawberry lemonade so I diced up fresh strawberries, placed them in the mold and then filled it with lemonade. Mr. Roe opted for a delicious orange juice pop with a fresh orange slice inside...yum!

Me, well I'm all about chocolate. My creation consisted of a chocolate milk pop, (once frozen) topped with Magic Shell. It was fabulous, but I think next time I will roll it in chocolate chips before the Magic Shell hardens!

We also made a few other flavors that were so good. I'm tellin' ya, you can't go wrong. It's a great way to enjoy some fun with the family in the kitchen!

funtabulous lunch

2010-08-09T23:00:00.003-04:00

Switch it up! Here's three simple steps to creating a fun lunch that you and your kids will enjoy. Give your kids a little something to smile about when they pop the lid on their lunch box. Be creative and most important, have fun!

she's got the hang of it

2010-08-06T09:29:00.002-04:00

We are in the home stretch of our first week of school. It's been a fun week but yet tiring for most everybody. From the get go of Monday's rush of energy, with all of the new people, new school, new activities and so on, it was a challenge. By Wednesday we were "in the groove" of things. Today, we are just glad to know that it is Friday...all of us!

It has been fun to watch Roxanne's reaction to the newness of her surroundings. She has handled herself well and she has made many new friends. I can see that she wants to succeed in her school work. She is ready to learn and reach higher.

I am glad that she is adjusting so well and I am looking forward to a great school year. Good luck Roxanne, mommy is proud of you!