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A Few Of My Favorite Things: 2011

2011-12-17T05:26:00.002-06:00

Inspired from my previous post and this post from 2008,I decided to share my favorite things at the moment (or they have been for a long time). Warning, several may revolved around food...but not all! Hover over links to get details on products and such.

Tahitian Gardenia Perfume: I have found this once again after our local natural food store stopped carrying it. Found it at Sprouts. This is a lovely subtle perfume that does not overwhelm, but I am often stopped to ask what I am wearing when I dab it on. ;-)

Roasted Chickpeas: These are also my daughter's fave snack ever. There are a gazillion ways to make it, but our fave variation is this.

Bison: Thanks to my dear friends, Jeff and "DonnaDear", we are sold. Although I can never ever ever recreate Jeff's meals (oh how I want his mustard sauce)....they turned on my entire family to bison. Read about the good stuff that bison has to offer here because I am too lazy to type it all out. This is our fave way to make it. I need Jeff and DonnaDear to help me with more creative uses of it.

My Wonder Woman Coffee Mug: It makes me smile. Although the mug sees more tea than coffee, the attitude of the mug wakes me up.

My New Car (Buick Enclave in Cocoa): Something else that makes me smile. Funny how your fave things can make you smile. :) But this one can carry around my nieces and nephews and friends this summer. This being said, my fave car dealership is THIS ONE

Candied Bacon: NUFF SAID This is coming from a girl who doesn't like sweets

OnStar: Because it is cool and I feel like a VIP when I use it!

Pintrest: Duh

My 85mm 1.2: Several years later, it is still my fave lens ever. Especially for boudoir!

Salon LaPage: There are times I can't get in with the stylist I ask for. This being said, I am never ever let down. Now I don't know who the hell to go to. Ha.

MPIX: I have used MPIX for years personally...but totally impressed with print orders this year, plus reasonable prices! .

My Boots! I love these even over a year later. I will always eye more boots, but these go with everything!

My Gym: They never let me down, no matter how naughty I have been.

Last Minute Holiday Craft

2011-12-17T04:01:00.000-06:00

Most people that know me KNOW that I am not super crafty. I have tried sewing, didn't love it. Never attempted scrapping, was never interested (although I adore looking at other's). I don't make cute templates or canvas prints. Not crafty at all.

But I AM creative...AKA I rock at coming up with something creative at the very.last.possible second in a select few occasions. .

Last week I had that "oh crap" moment. I am room parent for my 9 year old son's class. That meant class party. Like planning a craft and such. I had a week.

I came up with a theme: A Few of Our Favorite Things.

Basic plan was:

For each child to bring their favorite treat or snack (my son picked my homemade cornbread).
I will bring my fave holiday drink (ok, safe for kids)...Apple Cider (I totally winged this too, and although I expected the kids to dislike it, we had to ration it instead).
Come up with a craft that has something to do with one of the child's fave memories.

And so this "craft" was created.

I love using the clear glass bulbs for gifts each year. In the past I filled them with a special photo. But this year I did these as gifts..... so I took this idea and ran with it, on a smaller scale.

What you need:
Mini Glass Ornaments (Hobby Lobby)
A Thin Strip of Paper
A Few Strips of Shiny Ribbon

Have your child write your fave memory (depending on recipient of gift, it can be a fave memory with that person...thanks to my friend Evea for that idea). My memory was celebrating Christmas for the first time as a mommy. Twirl the paper with something small, like a wooden skewer or toothpick, and place inside ornament. Fill with ribbon (you can twirl it around the skewer or just let it curl inside bulb as you place it in).

Simple as that.

Now you take this idea and run with it. :)

Christmas & Such

2011-12-06T09:55:00.000-06:00

Boy, Christmas snuck up on me this time...but I fought like hell to stay on top of it. :) Not to be the over achieving mom, nope. Just to create memories for the family. They may be simple memories, but that's the good stuff.

With the introduction of Pintrest into my life, just like all of my friends, I am now constantly putting inspirational things onto my life to-do list. A few of those things I actually put into action.

Mind you, this is not fancy. Not the most creative. Done in a bit of a rush. I am sure I could have done a ton more to these....but you get what you get. Right?

The first was a simple ornament idea that my 7 year old daughter saw. She calls it "SPARKLES!!!". You should hear her say that. SO we put together some ornaments for the girls in our lives. (look away Evea....please):

Next up was an advent calendar. We decided to have an activity advent. We numbered little envelopes and wrote activities on the card stock. We display the activity once it is done. It was easy, and most activities are easy. Although two will require quite a bit of work! One actually is going to end with about 40 kids at my house I am sure. Really really.

I have had a few people ask me what the activities are....

In no order:

make cookies for a neighbor
watch a Christmas movie
write a holiday play
stir peppermint into coffee, cocoa, or tea
watch Jordan's holiday performance
watch Andrew's musical performance
do a scavenger hunt with friends in neighborhood for local food bank
write a Christmas letter to a soldier
decorate ornaments for friends
go see friend's Christmas play
go look at Christmas lights
eat some peppermint ice cream
go see friend perform in Annie
spend night with besties
Christmas Carol with friends (this is what has turned into a TON of people)
make snowflakes
celebrate Daddy's birthday
bring Christmas flowers to Nana at cemetery
make homemade hot chocolate
decorate cookies
write letter to Santa
tell a stranger Merry Christmas
watch a Christmas TV special
Christmas Eve Surprise!

I hope this inspires you all in some way. :)

Friday Morning Musings

2011-09-16T04:07:00.002-05:00

My Thoughts

I love being surrounded by quirky, silly, lovely yet imperfect women. It helps me remind AND show my daughter that perfect girls are boring. She believes me because she sees my lovely, color outside of the lines, confident, and witty friends.

Oh how I enjoyed sitting outside, under a blanket, drinking hot tea with my sweet son last night. While hubby and my daughter were at softball practice, we had time to connect. He is getting so big, yet still enjoys time with me. It was a gorgeous night.

I get my new camera today! Squeal!!!! So ready to play!!

Speaking of.... after taking quite some time off to focus on my family, I am scheduling sessions again. Not as many as before, since we have active children and I am enjoying my weekends with my family.

J has her first softball game tomorrow! Can't wait!

I am so loving more and more date nights with my husband. We had gone months and months without one. All of a sudden we are spoiled. Nice to reconnect. Really.

I have so many friends that I am proud of for so many reasons. Stepping out of their comfort zones. Healthier living. Setting boundaries with negative people/situations. Recreating themselves into a better version of them. Embracing the good instead of running from it. I could go on and on. Rock on my dear friends!

I have come to realize that certain changes are so hard that they can even break your heart. You wonder if those changes were the right ones to make. Have to trust....

Have a fabulous weekend everyone.

xoxo

7th Birthday

2011-07-27T10:56:00.001-05:00

My baby turned 7 last week. In lieu of having a birthday party with all of her friends, she asked to go to the farm...Greer Farm that is. So we packed up 3 kids (her "sister-cousin" Catie came along at the last minute!) and made the 3 hour trip.
Here is the trip in pictures (not bad pics taken with a little point and shoot).

Icee Tongues

Girls watching boats

He was a fishing fool

Time to pick blueberries

Girls playing with antlions

Mermaids

Peach Orchard

Buddy the Dragonfly

More Antlion Playing

Little S'more Brownie in Cabin

Cousins

Farm Dog Tux

Farm Dog PePe

Happy 7th my dear girl. Love you so much.

We Remember

2011-07-01T21:55:00.002-05:00

This morning, my handsome and wonderful father in law went to heaven. We were all there. It was so hard.
Tonight.....we told our children. His grand kids. They adored him beyond belief.

After many tears, we spoke. At the moment my beautiful daughter is with me, while my lovely son is with his daddy supporting him.

This is what Jordan...my gorgeous and wise 6 years old wanted to share (her words).

Tonight..Jordan Remembers

Poppy playing how the cow eats the corn…it makes her happy

Poppy flipping her in the pool….it makes her excited

Poppy playing hide and go seek…it makes her giggle

Poppy being a little sick and watching her swim…it makes her feel important

Poppy feeding her tractor tires….it makes her tummy feel good

Poppy steaks…it makes her remember the good stuff.

Poppy’s soft hand……it makes her miss him.

Kissing Poppy’s cheek….it makes her feel loved.

Light

2011-06-25T23:14:00.000-05:00

Tonight prayers are for my husband's family. Poppy has the will to stay here longer. I know it.

But in the tears...I have to share a pic of my daughter (J). She wanted a photo of her mermaid hair.

Here is it is. Between my sweet boy who loves us so, and my mermaid daughter...we have some light in this situation. Don't you think?

Small Pockets, Faerie Dreams, Fried Flies, Pet Spiders, and SPARKLES!!

2011-06-24T01:19:00.001-05:00

A random image of this summer.

I never go into summer thinking, THIS year I will be the best mom ever (that makes me snort)! But I do want to create memories. Some memories are not productive or educational. Nope. But some are. I also continue to work on my grown up life. But summer makes me put a little part of my grown up life in my back pocket until the Fall. Not all of it, mind you. Momma likes margaritas and girl talk too much for it ALL to go in that back pocket. Yep. Small pockets. Very small pockets.

Here are my late night random thoughts, since you asked. You did, didn't you?

Jordan has very long and vivid dreams. She loves to wake up in the morning and tell me every single detail. Lots of details. The dreams are long. Get it (twitch)? But I do love when she dreams of faeries. She did this morning, and their were frogs and a very talkative blue bird who had a lot to say. This morning, I loved hearing her dreams. Other mornings....well.
I discovered on Tuesday that Andrew has a pet spider. In his room. He feeds him flies. Moths are also fed to him but they take the spider a long time to eat. The spider is in an old bubble gum tin. He survives just fine. He gets air twice a day. Oh my.
Speaking of bugs, we got an electric fly swatter. AKA the "effer gitter". We bought one years ago to get those aggressive bees (or wasps? I don't know). Andrew now loves zapping flies. Which is great. Until you smell a burning fly. He informed his sister today that fried flies stink. I am sure she is thrilled to know this.
Kids love the farm camp. They also love that their good friends (their mom is one of my best friends and a huge inspiration to me...her whole family is - and a shout out for her and her hubby) are joining them. At this moment I have my two kids and her's FINALLY asleep in my living room. The good stuff.
Part of my noneducational time with the kids was Monday. I wasn't feeling awesome, slight fever. So we stayed in our pajamas all day and watched H2O all day long. No...really. Like 14 episodes. I liked it. We have watched a few more since then. Yes sir.
After watching the previously mentioned show, Jordan decided to finally stop plugging her nose underwater and attempt swimming like a mermaid. She rocked it. Now mind you, she was swimming almost before she could walk. Never feared the water and taught herself to swim (as she does everything...if she wants it then she will figure it out). She has decided that she IS a mermaid stuck in a little girl's body.
I need grown up time. I miss some of my dearest friends and my best friends.

That being said, I am lucky to spend the summer with the kids. I love the water park, swimming pool, ice cream truck, backyard water gun fights, hula hooping, lazy pj days, busy farmers market days, play dates, picnics, camps, trampoline with sprinklers, and (gasp) fried flies. I love having time to make homemade orange juice, going to the library, treasure hunts and board games.

But again, I have a small back pockets. Just sayin'.

p.s. the SPARKLES was for those who know my daughter....that is all.

A Farm Camp....Stay Tuned!

2011-06-22T15:31:00.003-05:00

I will be posting in more detail about a insanely cool Children's Program on the Farm the kids started yesterday. Stay tuned!!! North Texas/OK people must know about this. :)

Until then...some slightly edited cell phone pictures...because that is how I roll these days.

Jordan and her dear friend checking out and showing off garlic!

Andrew, Jordan, and their buddies (their mom is one of my very best friends)

J introducing me to the farm bunny

Let Me Tell You About a Great Man

2011-06-20T08:39:00.000-05:00

Father's Day the past few years has been a little rough. Due to several situations, I have made the choice to not have my father in my life. I did not do this out of spite or hate. I did this to protect my family.

That being said, for the past 11 plus years, I have been blessed with a fabulous father-in-law. He is a loving, gentle man. He is the kind of man that you can't help but adore when you meet him. He is one to remember when he leaves a room. Not because he is the loud funny type. He IS funny, and can tickle himself when telling a good story. People remember him because he is the one who will look you in the eye, act as if he has known you his whole life. He will touch your arm, take your hand, or pat your back while giving you his handsome smile. Some may say he is a bit of a flirt....that is part of his charm. He is harmless in the flirting, because you see, he is madly in love with my mother-in-law. He has always been the man to let the ladies sit and visit while he cleaned up after dinner. He has always been the man to refill your iced tea, make you a mean bloody Mary, or get you a cup of coffee. He is the guy that everyone loves and respects. Truth. My children simply adore time with Poppy. Always have. He raised two wonderful sons who have nothing but adoration and love for him. I, his daughter-in-law, am simply smitten with him.

As I have said in previous posts, Poppy has cancer. He has gone through chemo many times, has had surgeries, he has been so very sick. Recently, he has decided to stop chemo. Quality of life type of thing. So this Father's Day was so very important. This is so hard to type....but this will more than likely be his last. Hospice starts this week and he is simply tired. The children are aware of this and carefully picked out their cards for him, as did Chad and myself. Yesterday we hugged him a little longer, and enjoyed the little things. We talked about how it was 10 years ago that we gave Poppy a Father's Day card that said Happy Father's Day Grandpa. You see, he wasn't a grandpa yet. It was our way of telling him that he was going to be. Now THAT was a Father's Day.

So, there is the little insight into who Poppy is. He is one of the best men....best PEOPLE... I have ever known. I know I am not alone in saying this.

Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.

Look at that smile.

I am Still Me

2011-06-14T07:24:00.001-05:00

Enjoying Library Books....(camera phone)

The past several months I have been a busy girl. Attending charity events, socializing, enjoying time with fabulously inspiring adults. I dressed up at least once a week for something. My photography business kept me busy in between my busy and heartening life. I was happy. I was inspired. I was making a difference. I was surrounded by some of the best people I have ever known. I smiled.

Then summer happened. My kids are with me most of the time. I have had to turn down many many events because of my children. My days have been full of busy swimming pools, water parks, libraries, friends over, vacation bible schools, baseball camps, my husband working from home, being interrupted by children more often than what I would like, play dates with friends, sleepovers, making lunches, grocery shopping for my ever emptying pantry, and spending time with other mothers (and best friends) in the same boat.

I have been told several times that people have asked about me. Some are worried. Some wonder if I will ever be back.

Guess what?

My photography business is still keeping me busy in between my busy and heartening life. I am still happy. I am still inspired. I am still making a difference. I am still surrounded by some of the best people I have ever known. I still smile.

Now is the time to make that difference not with huge charity events or finding that cocktail dress. Now is not the time to strap on my camera to photograph such events.

Now is the time to watch my ever growing children explore this summer. Raise money for my Breast Cancer 3Day with a lemonade stand, wear cut offs and flip flops. Strap on the camera (or grab my cell phone like the in the photo shown) to capture youth of my babies. Because too very soon they will be teenagers.

So for now I will enjoy them smiling and proudly showing off their library cards. I will enjoy watching them read and enjoying the slow down moments. I will rock the baseball caps and ponytails. I will go down water slides with them and swim with them in the pool. I will take them to the Farmer's Market and the museum. They will experience Shakespeare in the Park and local summer theater programs. They will love watching mommy make milkshakes and picking tomatoes in the garden. We will visit their Poppy (my fabulous father in law) who is sick with cancer. They will draw him pictures and read to him. We will take walks and see movies. We will visit family. Some days we may just snuggle on the couch watching old Wonder Woman episodes.

It's all good. I will be back. In the Fall. I am still me, just being inspired one moment at a time.

xoxo
Kandi

I Am

2011-06-07T05:19:00.000-05:00

awake too early

looking forward to my morning walk with Lola

going to snuggle a newborn and photograph her today

praying for my father-in-law (Poppy)and wishing cancer never existed

missing several near and dear friends

not going to eat bacon today

enjoying catching up on my blog stalking

going to finish up editing boudoir pics

happy that the kids get to see Poppy this morning

wanting to find a summer read

enjoying ice cold milk in my Wonder Woman coffee mug

going to have a lovely day

Our Summer To Do Lists 2011

2011-06-07T04:03:00.002-05:00

We are ready to get this party started!

We shared our lists here, here and here

I adore reading the lists as the years go by. It's the good stuff.

Andrew:

Have a sleepover
Watermelon picnic at the water park
Ice cream every Sunday
Read at least 5 books
Go Jeeping
Camp
Visit cousins in the country
Spend more time with family
Learn more about God

Jordan:

Swim at Dee's (great grandma)
Sleep outside
Get and read Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants book
Go to the zoo
Go Jeeping
Go shopping for cute new school clothes
Dance while we clean house
Go to Greer Farm
Get a guitar for me
Lay out at night and look at stars
Grow an apple tree and pick apples
Go on vacation to Austin

So there you have it.....I love them. Happy Summer!

Our Month

2011-05-18T05:51:00.000-05:00

Today I Am.....

2011-04-02T07:27:00.003-05:00

No excuses here, I have not blogged in a long time. No, I am not catching up right now. But I will let you know that today, I am....

Insanely inspired by the Shine Project over here

Listening to my daughter tell me her dream

Not feeling too well

Ready to watch my son play some baseball this morning (please let me feel better)

Looking forward to a night out with some girlfriends (again, let me feel better)

Stressing yet excited about starting a job on Monday

Overwhelmed by my to do list in the next couple of months

Feeling blessed to have so many loving and supportive people in my life

Slowly letting go....

Needing hydrated

Looking forward to pretty weather

Thinking about planning a 3Day fundraiser

Cleaning out my closet

Checking out an antique/resale store or two for some furniture

Missing my mom's advice

Going to smile

19 Things to Do Before I am 38

2010-11-22T20:40:00.006-06:00

I only have 5 months to complete this....So I must make it realistic. That means very simple!And cut the list in half

1. Make homemade icecream
2. Raise at least $1500 towards my 3day Walk in San Diego
3. Organize my work station
4. Run an entire 5k
5. Not gain a pound during the holidays
6. Try very hard to return every text message ha
7. Supply my brother with at least 15 new egg recipes for his egg makin' chickens
8. Learn the basics of fly fishing
9. See more great movies
10. Open up a tad more
11. Run a 5K with my nephew
12. Keep my feet pretty...then buckle down on the Breast Cancer 3day training
13. Visit a brewery
14. Hula Hoop at the gym at least 3 times a week (dork)
15. Write more letters to family instead of emails
16. Assist my kids in their passions of the year
17. Continue to stay inspired and expand my business
18. Succeed in checking off this list. ;)

A Smidge for the Month

2010-11-22T20:32:00.003-06:00

A Child of Happiness always seems like an old soul
living in a new body, and her face is very serious until
she smiles, then the sun lights up the world.

~ Anne Cameron

Tiny Update

2010-10-06T04:23:00.003-05:00

Time flies, doesn't it?

Moments of Happy
Feeling safe
Sofa snuggles
Successful fundraising
Quirky quotes
Girl days
Open windows
Cooler temps
Morning walks
Long talks
Bonding with brother
Caring son
Baseball weather
Baseball caps
Sun in my face

There you have it.

Moments of Happy This Week

2010-07-03T03:35:00.006-05:00

Morning walks with Lola and finding every sprinkler to cool off

Getting caught in a down pour with the kids

Root beer floats

Watching the kids show a true interest in art at the DMA

A very hilly training walk with a friend

Laughing and crying watching Toy Story 3

Naps

Lunch with a beautiful friend

Brunch & great conversation with a lovely friend from high school

BLT's

Chats with my big brother

Jordan telling my I had a very pretty tummy (swoon)

Frisbee with Andrew

Nature Walks

Soft blankets

Tomato Pie

Summer's Cheers To

2010-06-15T20:12:00.003-05:00

Pink Lemonade
Late Spring Cleaning

Old and New Best Friends!
Blueberry picking
Feeling Sexy
Summer desserts
Last Minute trips
Sexy cheap dresses and Do Rags
Healthy Poppy's
Happy MiMi's
Secure Uncles
Good weather
Happy Beaches
Good Bartenders
Victoria Secret's Semi Annual sale and the friends who pretend they don't know what I am talking about!
Warm veggies
Sprinklers
Farmer's Market

I am simple this year...This is what the kids asked for:

Drew:
Go to friends' houses
Swim
A Sleepover
Party
Picnic
Ride Bikes
Play Games
Smoothies

He is easy!!

J:
Swimming Party
Make Pop cycles
Swim
Vacation Bible School
Read
Take picture of Andrew and me
Get sprayed by the sprinkler
Have a Picnic
Look at the Clouds

Pics soon, they are way better than the requests!!

Today

2010-05-18T16:35:00.003-05:00

dog walks

3Day training

editing inspiring ladies

calls with old friends

calls with new friends

new hair

catching up

smiles

lovely lunch

notes from kids

kid drama

pirate costumes

sword fights

warm day

made up stories

new bruise

baseball

swoon

dorkiness

sideways glances

grrrr

laundry

helping a friend

saturday outfit planning

weekend session planning

happy girl

ready for summer

Jeeps, Bandaids & Happy Places

2010-04-08T03:04:00.007-05:00

Today was a gorgeous day here in North Texas. I was able to do something I haven't done in a while. Throw on a baseball cap, jump in the husband's jeep, and drive with the windows down (I know, that is anticlimactic and wrong. But I was home alone and couldn't take the top off myself. I take what I can get).

While I was driving, blaring the radio and enjoying the day....I was happy. I like happy. It is a nice place to be.

Later in the day, after trampoline jumping and a trip to the ice-cream parlor, the kids and I came home to the neighbors out playing. Out came the scooters and bikes. Within 5 minutes my usually tough little girl fell. She ripped a hole in her jeans and got a little road rash. Out came the bandaid and aloe. I hate to see her in pain, but I love it is that time of year for scraped knees and bandaids. The simple things...right? Knowing it was that time of year, I smiled (after a kiss and a Popsicle).

So as I sit here at almost 4am due to my usual lack of sleep, listening to my dog having puppy dreams and the ticking of the clock...I am reminded of that word. Happy.

Even when things are less than good, there is always a happy place. Something that makes you smile.

Right now....Spring and the anticipation of Summer makes me smile

being barefoot

sundresses

walking outside to see all of the neighbors out hangin'

fresh herbs

warm tomatoes from the garden

ice-cream parlor trips

kids all over the neighborhood outside playing

Popsicle smiles

my dog,Lola, taking a sun nap

photo shoots on a lovely morning

flip flops

homemade guac and salsa

grillin and chillin

cold beer

walks to the park

windows open

jeeps

my "laying out" playlist

iced coffee

a kid's baseball game and a hot dog

farmer's market

photographing weddings

yard sales

picnics

margaritas on the patio

my birthWEEK (haha)

spring recipes

bandaids and scraped knees

And that is just the tip of the iceberg. Told ya I liked being happy.

Happy Spring.

xoxo

Spring ReDecorating

2010-03-28T12:20:00.005-05:00

Those of you who know me, and have been to my house, know that it will look different every time you visit. I got the itch again recently after a trip to IKEA and shopping with me friend . Poor Chad walked into a different house once again after a business trip. :)

The 3 pieces of furniture below used to be in my kitchen....now back in living room. Haha. I am not big on "springy" decor, but I managed to find some earthy colored eggs and a cool little bird. I also wanted to bring out the green glass pieces that my mom bought for me on her shopping trips.

I found the items below at Golightly's Gallery. I loved the title of the book....and the little things hanging off of the wire picture holder were my Great Grandmother's clip on earrings. I love them.

I bought the some frames below at IKEA for next to nothing, the others I found in one of my trunks. I have wanted to frame some of the kids' artwork (shown is artwork by Andrew), and finally had a chance. The leaf picture Andrew took a while back ago, and the XOXO goodies were found at Uncommon Objects in Austin when Jordan and I were shopping. XOXO is something I like to use if you don't know that by now. I also threw in a photo booth picture of Jordan and me.

The blue dog at the bottom is Jordan's artwork. I adore the kids' art teacher.

Well, there you have it! Nothing super exciting, but a change nonetheless!

XOXO ;-)

Kandi

Seaside Florida: Part 1

2010-03-19T09:01:00.008-05:00

We knew we wanted a vacation.

We knew we wanted the beach.

That is about all we knew. We had a budget. No destination.

After looking (okay, obsessing)...I had it narrowed down to about 6 locations. Still wayyy too many decisions for me, the girl who can't chose an ice cream flavor to save her life. We narrowed it down by deciding to stay in the U.S.

After much researching, I narrowed it down to two locations, then to one (because the other choice would make a better girl trip).

We were on our way to Seaside, FL. Although <------ that website offers cottages through the Cottage Rental Agency, I went another direction and found a charming home thanks to Sandpiper Vacation Rentals. I called them to check on the availability of a home I fell in love with. Shannon, the vacation specialist, called me and was positive I would love Seaside. She was so helpful and energetic (not annoyingly so...hehe). That day I booked the home "Fantasia". Then the flight and the car. We were set!

Yeeehaaaa!!

The day arrived. We woke up early, packed up the car and headed for the airport. The kids were pumped. Poor Andrew had strep throat (doesn't that always happen? Someone is sick on vacation?) so he wasn't AS thrilled. But obviously by this phone image....Jordan was roaring to go.

Entering Seaside was like entering into a movie (must be why they chose Seaside to film The Truman Show). Airstream trailers lines the main street selling BBQ, cocktails, cupcakes, and more. Beautiful homes were lined down quaint streets, the ocean in plain view just beyond cool food joints like Pickles and The Shrimp Shack.

We arrived before our check in time, so we decided to grab a bite to eat and check out the town. We decided on the most popular restaurant in Seaside....Bud and Alley's. We were seated in a bright room with a direct view to the beach. It was perfect (other than my poor son who was fading fast). The waitress was a doll with gorgeous blue eyes. She was thrilled to see North Texans in her section. She was from Dallas. :) Around us sat retired couples who were friends by the time their meal was over. Behind us sat a lady by herself enjoying a glass of wine. She seemed to enjoy watching my family. I figured she was taking a break from her own family for a quiet early lunch (remember this).

After a lovely meal with even lovelier views, we did a quick tour of the town. Sundog Books was a hit. We hung out for 30 minutes checking out cool titles, children's books that I have not seen anywhere else, and fun little toys & quirky gifts. There Jordan picked out a small dolphin toy and a book on Dolphins. Andrew got zombie finger puppets. Haha.

It was finally time to check into the home. Momma was giddy with excitement.

more to come........

I'm That Girl Who

2010-02-24T06:26:00.003-06:00

I have been making lists like crazy. I have quite a bit of travel coming up, and lists help me focus.
I adore reading other's lists. It may be a grocery list, happy list, to-do list, bucket list, things I did list, etc....I love them all. Lists make me smile.

Currently I have a few lists in my head. I will get to those eventually.

This morning I was checking out my lovely friend's blog and saw her list.

I'm That Girl Who:

spills coffee every time if I am the first one to pour from the pot
is not naturally organized. It is a chore
prefers her own popcorn in the movie theatre
loves seeing movies alone
gets her feelings hurt easily
has a hard time making up her mind if given too many choices
chooses her ice cream flavor by the color of her shirt (see above and making up my mind)
should wear glasses often but rarely does
is confident
is insecure
loves God
is useless when reading a good book
is humbled by her children
has a big brother that she adores, although they are nothing alike
uses the word adore too much
truly loves meeting new people and getting to know them
has a ton of friends, and I love them each in their own way
dislikes her feet
sees beauty in everyone
loves the word lovely
likes making lists

I could go on, but in two minutes the kids' alarm will go off and it will be time to get ready for school.

So tell me, what kind of girl are you? When you make the list, add a comment so I can read your lovely list. :)

King Huh?

2010-02-23T13:37:00.004-06:00

Jordan loves drawing pictures. That is her love language. And for a little one who just turned 5 and a half, she does a great job.

She made her brother a card for his birthday.

Happy Birthday King

I Love You

In the photo, Jordan drew a picture of herself dressed up and serving him cookies. Complete with a very large cake. To King Drew's left (that is him in his bed being a king), are her gifts to him. A new clock, a crown, baseball hat, a computer, and a camera. That may be a cell phone. She couldn't decide.

So you think she adores him or what?

A Love Letter to my 1st Born

2010-02-19T08:36:00.002-06:00

Dear Andrew,

Happy 8th Birthday Drewbear. The past year you have grown in so many ways. Not only are you more than 2 inches taller, but you have become so much more responsible. Without us asking; you replace the trash bag, clean up dog poo (and never complain!), vacuum, and so much more.

I love how you love to make people laugh. Your biggest fan is your little sister. She adores you and no one can make her laugh like you do. Like yesterday she said that her belly hurt because you made her laugh so hard. I also love how you stick strong to our family's rules and respect your home and others around you. You sometimes remind me of little things as well. To thank God before we eat, to say thank you when daddy compliments me, and to take a deep breath if I am stressed out. For an 8 year old, you are so mature. But I also love that you still hug me in front of your friends, and you are so proud when I come around. I pray that you never outgrow me.

You are my handsome little man. You are so very handsome. Your eyes speak to me, and those missing two front teeth melt my heart when you smile. I know next year you won't say "whisper" the way you do now. HaHa!

I hope you have a fabulous day my son. You deserve it!

Love Forever and Always,

Mommy

P.S. Remember your 6th and 7th Birthdays?

Thursday Thoughts

2009-10-08T08:26:00.001-05:00

I am

Wanting new boots, cowboy boots. I will know them when I see them, until then no expectations

Figuring out my Pink Bra outfit for the fundraiser tomorrow

Upset that I have not trained in 2 weeks. I am so bad. I was being so good

Wishing I did not eat so much rosemary Parmesan bread

Looking at a house that needs attention

Needing to edit but will take the day off to care for me and the house

Missing my mom

Drinking hot tea (out of agave nectar...must hit store)

Feeling blessed that I reached my fundraising goal but I want to keep going! $2300 was hard to raise!

Hoping it does storm today

Feeling beat down today, I need to reboot

Lucky to have the successful business I do

Getting off of this computer and will start cleaning. HAHA

Enjoy your day!

XOXO

30 Minutes

2009-08-23T03:42:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I had quite the scare. To make a long story short, I visited my family doctor after a 9+ day headache (accompanied by neck and eye pain). The decision for me to go was because yesterday my headache worsened and I began hearing a whooshing sound in my ear.

After a 20 minute exam, my doctor rushed me to the E.R. She was concerned about a dilated artery or an aneurysm. She called and spoke with a specialist at the local hospital so that they could be prepared for me.

In just a few minutes I had a plethora of emotions. I was devastated that I was going to miss my children's meet the teacher night. I felt more alone that I ever have at that moment. I got on the phone, called my husband and told him that he will have to take the kids to meet the teacher. I called my cousin to tell her that we would not make it to her house that evening for dessert and fun. I called a friend to let some others know what was going on...just in case.

One of my best friends arrived to keep me company until my husband was able to be there with me. She kept me busy and laughing, although my head was throbbing. I tried to laugh it all off, and she was the best person for that job. During this time I got a CT scan. My aunt and cousin showed up to give me support and a few more laughs. Head was beginning to hurt more, but again.....what can ya do? Laugh. :) Hubby showed up and after a while it was just the two of us.

We waited.

Then I was wheeled off for an MRI. Actually two. One for my head and one for my neck. This is where they would look at my arteries in my head and neck, and figure out if it was an aneurysm. Again, in the wheelchair I cracked jokes to the tech who wheeled me into the room. There I was geared up with what seemed like a football helmet, I was given earplugs, and pretty much had to sit still for 30 minutes inside of that tube. The earplugs did no good, it was loud and scary. I can not imagine little children who have to have these done. So scary. So loud. So much time to think.

30 minutes

I closed my eyes. I took deep breathes. I prayed. Tears streamed but I could not move. They puddled in my ears. They overflowed and dripped down my neck. They itched. I could not move.

I thought of my husband who was being quiet in the room because I know he was just holding it together. I thought of my mom who was my angel that day. I thought of my babies. I thought about the worst. About who would snuggle with Jordan? Who would hug Drew every morning and sit with him while everyone else slept? Who would write them notes in their lunch boxes, read them stories, go on faerie hunts, make up games, watch them grow? I was sick to my stomach with the thought that I may never smell their sweaty little scalps, smell their morning breath when they kissed me good morning, hold them and snuggle with their squirmy little feet, hear their question after question when all I want is silence....I thought of so many more things that I am certain any of you out there would think.

In that short 30 minutes my life changed a bit.

Results came back fine. Now we just need to figure out what is causing this.

What was nice, is that while I was in my own world for that 30 minutes, I had SO many people praying for me and thinking good thoughts for me.

I felt it.

Happy 5th J-Bird!

2009-07-22T08:09:00.003-05:00

Never in my wildest of dreams would I have guessed that a little girl could mean so much to me. I never dreamed of having a daughter, I never understood the bond that a mother and daughter could have. Having you changed that. Year after year you and I grow closer, you are my kindred spirit.
You are so smart and intuitive. You are loving and funny. You make me laugh with your silly jokes and make me cry when you say your heart felt prayers. You surprise me with your view on life and the world, to the point of making me step back and see it in such a fresh light. You are wise beyond your years. You are so easy, so loving, and so imaginative. You went from being a high need baby to such a self sufficient little girl.
This past year I have watched you grow and change. You have developed your own little quirky style, one that is at one with nature with a sprinkle of girlie.

This year you have:

Grown 2.5 inches

Decided to have your hair cut , and you have loved the Alice style (Twilight ha)

Gained about 10 new little nose freckles (aka "stars" as Andrew calls them)

Developed so much confidence that has helped you become a leader when you needed to be, but you follow when you should.

learned to read!

Finally loved falling asleep in your own room!

Made a difference in so many lives

I love you JBird

<---------T H I S M U C H-------->

Mommy

Best of Dallas?

2009-06-29T16:10:00.003-05:00

Thanks to a client of ours, Jackie and I have been nominated for WFAA’s Best of Dallas “Wedding Photographer” category. We were entered pretty late (didn’t even know it was going on! LOL) so we only have until FRIDAY to rack up some votes.I you could take a moment and vote for us, we would be eternally grateful!

Vote Here!

Yes Please

2009-06-20T04:24:00.009-05:00

Sure, I will take it

A mustache party thanks to the groovy duo over here. They hooked us up with our own printable mustache template

One of these comfy dresses for my Jordan

A lovely bike w/basket lined in one of these (is that not the coolest places on the web?)

Tea for one

More to come.....going to sleep now. Nighty night.

Best Friends-20 Years Later

2009-06-15T04:53:00.007-05:00

I have more than one best friend. I am so blessed to have a handful of people I know I can rely on, cry with, laugh with, share secrets with. This weekend I got to enjoy my best friends of twenty years. TWENTY ***gasp***YEARS! We met when I changed high schools in 11th grade. I was 16.

These girls are my sisters. They know me, I know them. Deena and Dana are twins that have welcomed me in as the other sister.

Our friendship has seen so much. Together we have supported each other in so many ways. We have been there holding the other through tears and heartache. We have been there to support and sometimes steer in a better direction. We have hurt each other's feelings and overcome insecurities together. We have seen each other at our best and at our worst (inside and out). We were their to celebrate love and birth. We have cried through loss. We have laughed to keep from crying. We have cried from laughing so hard.

I taught them how to drive a stick shift. We have been mugged together. We have ordered drinks when we were too young to drink. We have danced in parking lots, sat on top of water towers, and taken road trips together. We have witnessed so.very.much. And we still love the other.

Twenty years later we have witnessed our children developing a friendship. Between the three of us we have 4 girls and 2 boys. From ages 3 to 8. To me, it is so cool to see these children become friends. Seeing our girls hold hands, the boys do their boys stuff, and our families just hanging.

I will write more about the actual trip later. But today I wanted to get my love out there for my two beautiful friends.

Here is to girl talk, Elvis, laugh lines, mom swimsuits, expensive wine, annoying geese, Murphy's Law, black and blue lemonade, s'mores, guacamole, peach ice cream, arrows on our feet, Taylor Swift over and over and over, and us.

Cheers

One Lovely Blogger Award

2009-06-14T07:23:00.000-05:00

Thank you to the awesome Sarah over at La Maison Bohéme (I LOVE her blog).

The guidelines for accepting the award are:1) Add the logo to your blog2) Link to the person from whom you received this award3) Nominate 7 or more blogs4) Leave a message on their blog – letting them know that they are ‘One Lovely Blog’
And here are some of my favorite spots on the web:

Persisting Starts

Oh My Dear

The Dear Diary Stories

Thursday Thoughts

2009-06-11T07:18:00.002-05:00

Today I am

Enjoying hot tea (cramping, lovely being a woman)

Listening to thunder

Adjusting to my natural curly hair being worn natural again. It is finally long enough! But I feel so weird with it curly again after straightening it 90% of the time in the past 2 years!

Prepping and planning for our 2nd trip to Greer Farm this weekend! (YEAH!)

Even more excited about the cooking class I am taking at Greer Farm on Saturday!

And even MORE excited that my best friends since high school (and their families) are joining us on the trip! Yeah Deena and Dana!

Contemplating making some kind of lime cookies today

Editing for a couple of hours...but letting myself take a break after that.

Wanting to head over to Golightly's Gallery but probably won't. REALLY want to find some vintage blankets and props for a trash the dress session I am doing in a couple of weeks.

Enjoying my a.m. quiet time

Thrilled that I have lost 8 pounds in the past month and a half. Go me!

Cleaning my bathroom. yeah.

Going to enjoy my children.

There Is Something About

2009-06-11T05:19:00.003-05:00

There is something about having the opportunity to walk into your backyard to gather herbs and veggies for your evening's menu.

The above picture was taken weeks ago, now the little red cherry tomatoes are picked daily for snacks, kabobs, salads, etc. Not only that, but we have a lovely abundance of rosemary, Italian parsley, basil, and thyme. We have bell peppers, Chile peppers, and one lonely jalapeno. Having these on hand seem so good for my soul.

Ahhh....the little things.

Helloooooo Summer!!

2009-06-09T08:20:00.002-05:00

Every Summer the children and I make a list of things we want to do over the summer. I am a very lucky mom, because they keep it pretty simple. Yesterday, I ask the kids. Jordan drew pictures of what she wanted to do and Andrew wrote his list.

Jordan's List:
1. Jump on trampoline with the sprinklers going underneath
2. Look for butterflies
3. Pick Flowers
4. Watch the sun set with Mommy (awww)
5. Make cookies
6. Buy flowers to plant
7. Put together a baby fairy puzzle with 200 pieces
8. Look in cookbooks

Andrew's List:
1.Lemonade sale
2. Ride bikes
3. Make our own books
4. Make hot chocolate and pretend it is Winter (LOL)
5. Melt crayons in the sun and see what it is like to paint with melted crayons
6. Read more books (YEAH!!!)

I will get back with you on my list! Momma needs more time.

Ramblings

2009-05-12T00:32:00.003-05:00

It is late and I am tired. Tonight I have my children on my mind.

Summer is quickly sneaking up on me, and I am thrilled to have it arrive. My children are older, and often you will have to listen to me moan about the little fights and tattling. You will also listen to my ewy gooey lovins.

Tonight, like so many of my parent friends, I am simply smitten with my kids.

Why?

1. The children, upon hearing that Mother's Day was around the corner, whispered and were all shades of sneaky the day before Mom's Day. On their own they came up with my gifts.
Andrew, who is trying hard to work on his neater handwriting skills showed me his love in a very sweet Andrew way. On a little chalk board, he wrote VERY neatly "Happy Mother's Day Mom. I love you". His love language was neat penmanship and correct spelling. That is Andrew. Even more important, he remembered when he woke up what day it was and presented it to me. Jordan drew me a beautiful picture of swans, sunsets and the two of us with the word love, the word she loves to write and perfect in little twirls and swirls. She is four going on 12.

2. A new TV show that was recently advertised has the song "Don't Stop Believing!" and my kids sing it like rock stars. I had no idea why or how they knew it. Bedtime Storied hooked them up. I LOVE that they can hear a song, know it and have a memory that comes with it. I adore that they know everyone from Harry Connick Jr to ZZ Top and everywhere in between without a doubt.

3. When Jordan wants for someone to remember something she asks us to "Keep it in our mind"

4. Trampoline jumping is not always jumping, but silly Three Stooges acts.

5. Andrew can not wait to move to Paris to learn how to cook like them

6. Jordan can not wait to meet Taylor Swift and write songs with her

7. I can go on and on and on and on and on

Sigh....I want to write so much but I am so tired. Even though this month has been so very hard, I am so lucky to have my family. So.very.lucky

Walking to Save the Boobies

2009-05-05T15:07:00.001-05:00

Please support me as I take an amazing journey in the fight against breast cancer! The Breast Cancer 3-Day is a 60-mile walk over the course of three days. I walked this walk 2 years ago, and sadly was "red tagged" on mile 42 because of a broken foot. Darn it, I am doing it again. Because a broken foot is no chemo. I walk for my mother in law, Sandi Ray. She is a survivor. She is here to enjoy my children growing up. Even better, she is in my life still and is able to guide me in ways she will never know. I thank the good Lord she is here and in our life....and healthy. She is simply awesome. So this year...my foot may still hurt. But because I have to raise 2,300 to even walk a mile. THAT my friends, makes it worth the pain

Donate Here

Hmmm...

2009-04-27T15:57:00.002-05:00

Where to go on my 9th year anniversary when you have only 2 hours? Anyone want to help? :)

I can't wait to get all gussied up and go out!

Always a Work in Progress!

2009-03-26T12:09:00.006-05:00

So J and I went to a super cool antique store called Golightly's Gallery this week just for fun. Not looking for anything special.

Jordan absolutely loved looking at the "old stuff". Two hours later we walked out with Jordan's finds. We really looked for some items for Andrew, but had no luck. Maybe next time IKEA can take care of that. ;-)

We found a birdcage for her Littlest Pet Shops

She wants to make a flower market this summer, so we will start collecting a few cheap buckets and silk flowers. We will hang them on a little round table and maybe put an umbrella on it. Maybe we can exchange flowers for fruit when Andrew wants to play.

A mailbox for her to write Andrew letters

Her room (the handprint on the wall was mine. I got it from my dad on my last visit. I was 4 when I made it)

Need to find a headboard one day.

My Andrew

2009-03-25T08:38:00.002-05:00

Is so quirky. I simply adore little boys.
I see him slowly growing up before my eyes, and I don't want to miss a single little quirk.

For instance, he is still young enough to want to be tucked in.
He is too old to watch PBS kids.
He is young enough to to still want to hug and kiss me goodbye.
He is old enough to get himself ready in the morning without much pushing.
He is young enough to come to my bed during thunderstorms.
He is old enough to be responsible with his money.

I of course could go on and on.
I love little boys.

Biscuit Princealilly

2009-03-24T09:06:00.003-05:00

This morning J wanted to cook breakfast. She requested biscuits with cinnamon, brown sugar, nuts, and butter.

So I set up a little work place and let her get after it while I cleaned up around the house.

She calls her masterpiece: Biscuit Princealilly.

An Apron and a Tea Kettle

2009-03-23T19:04:00.002-05:00

In one month I will turn 36.

Want to know what I secretly want? Not a spa day or a new pair of shoes.

A half apron...something cute but not frilly. Something a bit boho but also something I can really cook in. So if you see something, link it to my darling husband or me. Hehe.

I also really want a pretty tea kettle that whistles. These days I enjoy tea far more than coffee. The kids love to sit with me and sip hot tea on weekend mornings. I want to always keep that little kettle on my stove. *sigh*

Gone are the days of big parties and new clothes.

Today

2009-03-22T12:47:00.003-05:00

morning cuddles

shared pancakes

silly dances

milk shopping

windows open

birds singing

house tents

watered plants

school playing

messy rooms

waiting for daddy

happy dog

bone almost gone

running crazy

silly boxer

wind blowing

papers rustle

citrus in jars

mom's old jars

remembering mom

photo editing

time to dust

must go

lalala

XOXO

Kandi

Blog Award Day!

2009-03-14T08:07:00.003-05:00

Yippee! I got my 1st award.

http://ginaeubank.blogspot.com/ gave me this award!

List 7 things I love and gave the award to 7 blogs.

1. Laugh Lines

2. Texas Country

3. Making Lists

4. Girl Talk

5. My kids' art

6. Menu Planning

7. My Family

Now my blog awards go to:

http://coltonandjessica.blogspot.com/

http://lovingaustinliving.blogspot.com/

http://smbogan.typepad.com/chickenscratch/

http://lameredeboheme.blogspot.com/

http://comesitbymyfire.blogspot.com/search?q=list

http://my2sonsrock.blogspot.com/

http://fabricfloozie.blogspot.com/

More Fri 13th Happiness

2009-03-13T13:45:00.003-05:00

After I cleaned Jordan's room today (she has a floor in there! I couldn't believe it!) I wanted to just play with her for a while. She wanted an underwater puppet theatre. So I grabbed an old box filled with junk and some old tissue paper and we created our underwater scene.

It took under 30 minutes to create and she has played with it for the past hour. I love little girls.

When Andrew comes home I think we will make him some kind of guy puppet, I have a feeling that it will more than likely be a shark or Davy Jones (no, not the 1960's teen heartthrob though that would be freaking funny!).

Meet Mermaid Esavella (Jordan named her of course)

Bringing Happiness to Friday the 13th.

2009-03-13T10:17:00.004-05:00

Thanks to the Shutter Sisters, I was inspired to photograph something pretty.
I got lucky because Jordan was working on a book (her fave thing to do is make books out of tracing paper). This morning she was making a traced flower book and titled it "Pretty" but she sounded it out:

Pride (pretty)

Speaking of pretty, Jordan enjoyed a tea party the other day (well, everyday but I happened to capture it a couple days ago. :)

The End

Going Back in Time

2009-03-07T10:30:00.005-06:00

I was speaking with some friends the other day about how we have changed since high school.
Obviously my hair has changed. That is a given. I KNOW my body has changed (18 years and two kids can do that to a girl), although my self confidence is better than it was back then. I know who I am, I know what I want, and I am comfortable in my own skin. I finally understand why my parents were so strict, and why certain teachers (Coach Adams was a constant) encouraged me to be the best person I could be. I now see so much potential in my children, not just academically either. I see them care and love others at such a young age. I see forgiving hearts (something everyone needs). I see creative and talented children. I see leaders that are looked up to. I pray that they will have some of the leadership that I did.

I also hope that they have better hair than I did. Haha.

A look back:

1991

Now

Age 8(ish)

Age 12 (posing for a play I was in)

Age 14-Posing for another play

My my...Bad all the way around. I was about 16 or 17?

Let me just say that I LOVE being almost 36 years old. As much as I LOVED my school days (really I did), I am so thrilled to be past that.

California-A Visit to Grandpa

2009-03-07T09:59:00.007-06:00

A few weeks ago, the kids and I made a last minute trip out to see my Grandpa, Dad, and more family. Grandpa had been sick, so it was time we made the trip.

On the flight there, Andrew lost his very first tooth. The flight attendants (yeah Southwest Airlines) made announcements and even took up a toothfairy collection. Andrew walked away with $16. Not too shabby, eh?

I won't go into detail about the visit, but I want to say something. My son is such a sweet soul. He was up all hours of the night just to check on Grandpa, rub his back, get him water...etc. Then he was up bright and early with my dad to get the fire started. Then there was Jordan, who bonded with my Aunt Sandy and Uncle Ernie like she has known them her whole life. It was seriously something that made me so proud. I am so blessed to have the children that I do.

We did take a day to get out of the desert (they live in Dagget CA) so that we could hit Newport Beach. It was a wonderful day. It was SO nice to be back, Newport Beach was one of my favorite places to visit as a child when I lived in California.

Here are some fun and sweet pictures from the visit.

p.s. After the visit we learned that Grandpa's health and spirits were much better. Children are amazing.

Letter to Daddy

Uncle Earnie, Aunt Sandy, Dad and kids

Grandpa with the kids showing off their treasures

With their rock bags...not much else to collect in the desert. :)

Calico Ghost Town

Getting a rootbeer

This Week's Menu

2009-02-22T09:07:00.004-06:00

I am posting this simply to make myself make these menus and maybe keep my other blog (the food one) updated.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken (sides green beans and garlic bread)
Tacos Carnitas in slow cooker (sides tomatoes, avocados, and corn)
French Onion Soup (salad side)
Polenta Lasagna (Caesar salad)
Garlic Chicken Pizza

The other days will be left overs or lazy day cooking. :)

Ok, I posted it. Now I may actually follow through! Hold me to it.

Happy Birthday Andrew

2009-02-19T17:00:00.003-06:00

7 Years ago today I was in this hospital bed. Friends and family waited for your arrival. Your Nana waited by my side. It was a long day but so worth it in the end. You changed me so much that day. You made me a mom, and your daddy a dad.

Today you are 7 years old. I could not be more proud of who you have become.

Just last year I wrote this and it still holds so very true. I love you so much Drewbear. So.Very.Much.

Love is in the Air

2009-02-15T05:48:00.006-06:00

After a day of sessions, I headed home to enjoy my family on Valentine's Day.
After a yummy dinner that Chad and I made, Jordan and I jetted off to get her ready for the big dance. Daddy was out of town for the Father/Daughter dance, so she wanted to dance with him on Valentine's Day.

Getting Pretty for Daddy

May I have this dance?
She is smitten

She kept dipping herself. Haha.

Poor Lola wanted to dance.

Aw.

Jordan didn't know that Andrew and I were having our own dance. Our dance was silly she said.

But she would join in anyways. Andrew and I had so much fun. Swoon.

Swing yer partner

Chad came back to join us

Andrew asked Lola for a dance.

Then he asked his sister. What a guy.

The princess must run off...the clock was about to strike 9.

"Thank you daddy"

Just reminding myself...

2009-01-12T16:49:00.002-06:00

To breathe.
To have faith.
To slow down.
To take care of me.
To not let the little things get me.

That is all.

Kandi's Favorite Things in 2008

2008-12-30T07:50:00.003-06:00

Emma's Boutique in Denton where I have found super cool Christmas presents (even for me!), my fave pair of feel skinny black pants, and clothes for photo shoots. Most importantly, the awesome girls at Emma's introduced me to Poo~Pourri.
Fire Roasted Tomatoes because they make me happy
Blue Mesa Grill and their online recipes! YUM
The Twilight series(I know, I am not 14 years old...so what?)
Central Market's Playground where I can read a magazine and have a healthy lunch while the kids play. And NO Happy Meals!
THESE necklaces
Old Navy's cashmere v neck sweaters sexy, soft, and beautiful colors

There are more I know....will add on! :)

Pretty Please w/Sugar on top.

2008-12-16T05:16:00.003-06:00

Let this little bit of icy drizzle we are getting be enough for a NO SCHOOL DAY!

Why?

The high is 34 today and it won't even be up to that until 4ish.

A perfect day to declare it:

Pajama Day
Make Cookies Day
Build Tent Houses Day
Listen to Christmas Music Day
Drink Even MORE Hot Cocoa Day
Watch An Affair to Remember While Kids Watch Home Alone Day
Read the Christmas Story Day
Keep the Tree Lights on All Day-Day

What kind of day would YOU declare it? :)

Dear Mom

2008-12-13T23:41:00.002-06:00

I miss you today.
Mom, I know your time was up. And I know I have written about this. But I will write again.
You had a rough end of your life. I understand that. But you made such an impact when your health was good. I am told by many that you went out of your way to make others feel special. Your nieces and nephews adored you. They miss you. So do I. So does your son, husband, sisters and brothers.

Mom, I have been told that my mom must have been a special woman to raise a girl like me. Little do they know that I am peanuts compared to who you were. You gave me opportunities that a girl could only dream of. You gave me life lessons that I never got until I was a woman.

The past 3 years have flown by mom, and each year I think to pick up the phone to call you at least 100 times. But I can't. When you left THIS earth, I was a new mom. I had a 3.5 year old son and a 15 month old girl. I hadn't even began to ask you much parenting advice. As each year passes, I pray that I can be the woman you raised me to be. The funny thing is, that like you, I have turned to writing to express myself. A typewriter clicked and clacked at midnight as you wrote of your life, and tonight a keyboard taps away writing of my life with you. Ironic, huh?

Tonight I want to remember the past year and the influence you still have on me:

You were right, it is never to young to give children the love of great literature.
I am rethinking never bestowing upon my children the word of the week during summer break...I get it now mom. Haha
Around age 4, I remember you telling me that mommy and daddy needed "grown up time". Snicker. That, I also get and I even use the same phrase.
You never made me feel silly when I stood up in church and made up songs. So now, I will never make my daughter feel silly for the random songs or dances.
Faerie hunts ARE magical
Snipe hunts don't seem so mean after all!
Boys and bikes and ramps all go hand in hand
Manners....you have to have them
Santa doesn't have that much room on his sleigh
I finally understand why you used to say: 1) Do you need a tissue for your nose? 2) staring is rude 3) You're going to catch a death of a cold 4) If you don't wear socks your feet will stink 4)Say excuse me 5) It's not nice to laugh when mommy passes gas 6) You don't like that long purple coat? I think it is cute! 6) Ear muffs are adorable on you! 7) You are too young to like boys 8) We don't sword fight in the produce section 9) Put that toilet seat down! 10) I LOVE YOU MORE THAN YOU WILL EVER KNOW!

Mom, I cried in Chad's arms tonight missing you. I can't imagine how dad feels. I know that I will see you again. Speaking of, Andrew realized the other night that he gets to see you and Chad's Grandpa again one day. He was sooo excited. So am I. But until then, I will cry because I miss you. I mourn our relationship, our phone calls, our talks, our margaritas, our diaries, our movies, our ghost stories, our inside jokes, our thing that only a mom and daughter can have.
I love you mom, to the moon and back. This time YOU are MY shining star.

Kandi

A Magical Day

2008-12-09T17:17:00.005-06:00

My day started off as usual. Getting Andrew up and ready for school. Telling Andrew and Chad bye...and began my day editing.

I have been working a lot as most of you know. So very much. SO every free second I get I edit.
This morning I got up from my computer to check on Jordan. She is home on Tuesdays and Thursdays and we used to do little things together. But the past several weeks I have been absorbed in my work that she has had to use her little imagination to keep herself busy and entertained. Which is totally ok. I know. Well, I checked in on her. She was on her knees, hands folded in prayer, eyes closed tightly.

"Dear God, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE let me become a pixie. I will be a very very good pixie. I promise God. And also, let my mommy stop working and spend time with me. Amen"

Gulp. My heart dropped. Turned off computer and got us ready. Turned off the rented Tinkerbell movie that she has been watching the past couple of days and we got ready. For what? I don't know.

She chose her black turtleneck, grey skirt, black tights and black boots to wear. Of course on her back she sported a pair of pink faerie wings. She also asked me to straighten her hair.

We got in the car...no destination chosen yet. But in the car Jordan saw the faerie working. :)
The dancing leaves twirling in the wind.
The trees blowing in circles.
The sun with the sparkles it leaves on the windows.

She saw them everywhere. And was in such a state of awe.

Where to go....where to go?

Then she asked...are there ice skating places really in our world? (her way of trying to figure out if things are real or not, she asks if they are in our world)

Aha. The Galleria.

So we arrived...and she was just amazed at the parking garage. Haha. We parked next to a big store that has not appealed to me at all before. But Jordan saw little girls walking out of the store and she asked what it was.

"American Girl store honey. Yes. Like Kit from the movie you watched."

An hour later (and no money spent) we finally walked out of the magical store that is American Girl. She even found a Jordan doll (as in she looked like Jordan). And she loved the babies. I have to say, I loved it too (I may have gotten teary eyed walking into the store).

Now, off to the mall. We found the ice skating rink and watched for a long time. We got hungry and she wanted La Madeline (it's all about bread and strawberries folks). So we were choosing what we wanted, and she asked the man behind the counter for strawberries without the yucky cream sauce. He said in the most Louis Armstrong voice I have ever heard, "Sure! How about whipped cream baby? You gotta like whipped cream!".

"Yes please!" Then she whispered "Mommy, pick me up".

So I did. And he handed her the plate. She said, "Thank you for making my very special day!!!". With that she got three more strawberries as I seriously saw swoon. Awww.

We ate and chatted and talked in high pitched faerie talk. Then....we heard a little girl talking about Santa.

Ding!

We walked and walked and found him. We were 2nd in line. Yeeeehawww!

And Santa spoke. Softly, and acted as if he knew Jordan. She sat on his lap and they talked. So much that they didn't pose for the pic (my fave kind). Then, with one finger motioning me over to them, Santa (in a non perverted way) invited me to sit next to them on the chair. He looked at me and said how I've grown. He asked if I remembered the doll he brought me when I was 4. I said yes...almost breathless (today IS magical...right?). I knew it was an act, but just be young minded as you read this. He looked at me and told me that he had told Jordan the same thing he told me when I was younger. He may bring her one or two things that she wants, but sometimes Santa likes to bring what HE thinks she will like. He looked at her and said he loved her artwork and he may bring her crayons that weren't broken like the ones she has. :) AWWW. Then, he looked at us both. And said..."You know that neighbor you have that seems lonely? Make her sugar cookies. Put them in a Ziploc bag and tell her Merry Christmas. When she eats those, she with think of you". We both gave him a hug. I was seriously almost in tears. I LOVED him.

Then we did other things like play in toy stores, she rode a train, and we had a milkshake. But it was perfect.

Next I want to spend a day like this with Andrew. Hopefully very soon.

Until then....can you find the faerie wings?

Breathe...breathe...breathe

2008-11-14T06:19:00.002-06:00

Tis the season to stay so busy. My busiest time of year.
I LOVE my job. Adore it. Desire it.

But I have other jobs.
Mommy. Wife. Friend.

Lately I have been so very busy that I haven't had much time to be anything. I know until mid December I will be underwater. Rarely coming up for air. I am preparing myself.

Over 4 years ago I quit my 40 hour a week job so that I could be a stay at home mom. My little hobby of taking pictures turned into a successful career. I love my career. Yet I sometimes forget that I am also still a stay at home mom. So here I am again working full time pretty much at home and still staying involved with my childrens' school. Still trying (not successfully) to keep a tidy home. Getting a healthy dinner on the table. Lunches made. Homework done. Husband kissed. Friends called. Dog exercized. Emails answered. Children read to. Laundry folded (don't laugh my dear Chad, I sometimes fold laundry).

You get the idea.

I need to breathe. Enjoy. Feel blessed that I have a job to get stressed over (because I bring it on myself don't I?), that my kids are healthy enough to run around and scream and fight, that my husband enjoys my cooking (snicker), that I have more great friends that a girl could ask for, that I have family to call, a house to clean, the best dog in the world, and clothes to fold. I will remember to thank God for my answered prayers.

As soon as I finish this mess of a blog, I will wake up my family and get the kids ready for school. I have been up since 4:30 editing. But I needed a break. After I take my daughter to school, I will come back home and edit. Then clean some. Then maybe, if I am a very good girl, take time for me. Paint my toenails maybe? Shave my legs? Tweeze my eyebrows? I know. I know. I am pathetic.

One more breath before I wake up the household.

whew.

Happy Halloween Ya'll!

2008-10-28T09:24:00.007-05:00

We had a Halloween party to attend this weekend. Jordan really wanted to be a girlie mummy, so that is what she was. She LOVED her costume! Drew of course wanted to be Indiana Jones, and he was in character for much of the time.

Chad and had last minute costumes.....Dr. Troy and his patient. Haha!

Baby it's Getting Cool Outside

2008-10-23T20:22:00.003-05:00

And I have been a bit gloomy to say the least.

So, while daddy and D were on the road to pick up D's new bed...I let J get all wrinkly in the tub while I washed up and put on my very immature yet comfy cold weather jammies. Some Nick and Nora sock monkey pink pj's. Ahhh. Then I wrapped my wet and cold little girl in a towel and then put her in her yummy cuddly footy pajamas. I absolutely LOVE her bottom in them.

Then, I whipped up a homemade hot cinnamon cocoa and toasted her her very first peanut butter and chocolate hazelnut spread sandwich.

She was happy. And very yawnie. And is ready to get all snuggled in bed. We saved some for D for when he gets home...I thought that would be a nice sussy.

Now off to read the Hello Goodbye Window.

G'Night.

Oh, and for the record...I am in Texas. It isn't really THAT cold yet....but I will take what I can get.

Finally-The Ray Family Pictures-by JRP

2008-10-12T19:40:00.013-05:00

One of my best friends and my partner in crime in wedding photography photographed my family and she hooked me up with some great previews! Whoo hoo! The session was super low key and very very "us". We are all so comfortable with each other, so she knew us and what would work for us. The kids just thought it was play time. No stress or drama at all. I am thrilled with the results.
Thank you Jackie. As usual, you rock my socks. Check out her website: http://www.jacquelinereitzphotography.com/

Girl Day

2008-09-18T16:48:00.006-05:00

Girl Days are awesome. They represent so much. NOT just pedicures and shopping, but a chance to bond and open up again. Girls need that every couple of months at least!
After we took Andrew to school on Tuesday, we announced girl day. Fancy talk soon followed and discussions of breakfast. We settle on La Madeline for quiche, croissants and strawberries. What else does a girl need for breakfast? It was a great breakfast and it was time for our pedicures.
Jordan was a statue during her pedi, other than a random mouth covered with her little hand giggle with glee. We laughed and made funny faces back and forth as we got our toes beautified!
Then it was time to search for something that Jordan has been looking for. A purse for her to put over head and across her body, but it had to be big enough for her pegacorn and random 4 year old things to fit in. After many stores we hit Libby Lu and found one on clearance.
We then had lunch with friends and headed home to get Andrew from school. It was such a lovely day that we went outside for for bike riding and hanging out.
During this day, I was able to capture a few fun pictures. And no, Andrew is not wearing a helmet while doing tricks on his bike. I know. :)

Big News...my website is UP!!!

2008-09-08T23:06:00.001-05:00

http://www.krayphotography.com/

MiMi & Poppy Send a Surprise (Sussy)

2008-08-29T15:21:00.007-05:00

The kids love their back to school surprise!
We made them close their eyes so that they could see the gift together. :)

My 1st Grader

2008-08-26T22:25:00.003-05:00

Andrew and I (wasn't it last week he was DrewBear?) decided to have a Mommy/Drew day yesterday! Jordan started back to her Montessori school (same teacher, so it was an easy transition), so Andrew and I were pretty pumped about having some time together.

So we dropped off J and kind of high fived each other on the way to the car. I mean, J and I will have two days alone per week with just US. This alone day with my lovely firstborn is rare. Whooo hooo!

First stop, new shoes (and Speed Racer Undies, I love little boys) and a surprise at the Target Dollar Spot for both kids.

Second, we discussed our day. Movies or bowling. That was a tough call. We settled on bowling because mommy always takes them to movies. It was so much fun. We laughed and cheered and ate candy. All before noon! After that? Video games. I am not as good at Ms. Packman as I once was. What a shame. Ha.

Then came today. Up and ready using his chart, he fell right back into his routine. He even had 20 minutes to spare so he was granted 10 minutes of tv.

We walked to school (how nice is it to live this close?) and Andrew had no problem going into class. His teacher seems so sweet and he loves her smile. Haha. This will be a good year I believe. Jordan and I missed him so much, we kind of were lost souls, but with time we will get back into the groove.

Tomorrow will be my first day alone. WOW. J has school M-W-F, so I won't know what to do with myself. Actually, yes I will. Finish my website and launch it, edit a wedding, and fold that (UGGHHHH) pile of laundry. I will also be very lonely, maybe. :)

Last Day of Summer

2008-08-24T23:25:00.002-05:00

A while back I posted a list of things that we wanted to do or try...let's see how well we followed through with this list, shall we?

Go to a farm (will be taken care of on our weekend trip)-We did and it was amazing
Make a homemade blueberry pie-Nope, but made many other yummy blueberry creations
Sell lemonade on the corner-darn it no! It was too hot.
Picnic in town square-we did, though it was breakfast
Make cookies for someone who needs cheering up-no, but we did make brownies for someone
Watch clouds all day (Jordan's idea) -10 minutess was all she needed a few times a week
Spend a day at farmers market-we visited a famers market but didn't stay all day
A day at Turner Falls No, too hot on days we could. Maybe a Fall trip?
Make a fairy garden Yes!
Have a slumber party Yes!
Touch an animal that we have never touched YES!
Make a new friend Yes!
Try a new snow cone flavor every week -not every week but we did visit the stand often!

Today

2008-08-04T14:26:00.003-05:00

Today is a hard day. I had a bit of a rough night and still in it's shadow.

Today I have fought the shadow.
By making a happy brunch for myself (a cucumber sandwich on my food blog).
By editing a wedding and keeping in mind the couple's love for each other.
By making a grilled cheese sandwich for the kids and listened to them rave about it.
By swimming with the kids for almost 2 hours.
By making silly faces underwater and coming up just in time to have a full on belly laugh.

Today I am focusing on the happy.
I hear the kids laughing and eating fresh fruit.
I see them smashing the fruit juices into their lemonade to create new flavors.
I am reading a book that made me happy last summer
I see the little freckles on the kids' noses and it makes me want to kiss all over them
I dream about an easier tomorrow.

Today I carry on with life.
Laundry
Small daily lessons for the kids
Dishes
Planning dinner for tonight
Plucking my eyebrows
Saying a prayer during my 2 minutes of alone time
Counting the hours until I can have a glass of wine

Today I will admit my frustrations.
I can't finish a sentence of my book without hearing "mom"
I have answered to "mom" a million times this past week
I looked in the mirror to see that I haven't plucked in weeks. Yikes.
I miss my husband when he is traveling but it is a hard adjustment when he returns
I try not be jealous when he is traveling to Seattle where we fell in love, and next to San Fransisco where I always dreamed of going though I lived in California for 10 years..but I get that way while I am stuck here
I know I am human, and my feelings are legit. And he works hard for this family.
I also work hard for this family and I have to realize that my perks are the ones fighting to my left.
I got my feelings hurt today when my son told me as we were swimming that I never play with them or do anything fun.

What I do for them...
Plan fun outings
Play with them daily
Find fun events to do with them weekly
Hug, kiss and pray with them daily
I give them tools to use their imagination and mind daily
Surprise them with trips, events, experiences, movies, and special time together
I taught them the beauty of finding shapes in clouds and shooting stars
Read to them daily
Snuggle
I am trying to give them the best foundation so that they can grow to be the best them.

I know one day they will know. I know one day they will thank me.
I know I am lucky to have everything I have, but some days life is hard. And right now my heart hurts and I am feeling a bit sorry for myself.

Tomorrow is a new day.

Faerie Garden

2008-08-04T09:54:00.003-05:00

Trying to complete our things to do this summer, we set out to make a faerie garden.

The kids are enjoying it, Andrew checks it every morning to see if the faeries visited it. NOT BY MY DOING some flowers get moved around. Could it be the dog? Andrew? Chad? Who knows. But pretty fun trying to figure that one out. Haha.

4 Years Ago My Life Changed

2008-07-23T03:45:00.004-05:00

This little girl was brought into our lives. She was nothing I expected but now I know she is everything our family needed. She made Andrew the best big brother ever. She made her daddy know what it means when other dads say that a little girl will melt your heart. She made me open my mind and be a better person.

My dear son (who celebrated his half birthday today as we do with each child's birthday) was an easy little man. He slept great, ate great, weaned with no issues, and was pretty happy and independent. I had no idea how people could co-sleep, nurse for longer than 3 months (I couldn't even talk to people about nursing), and I didn't get that whole attachment parenting frame of mind.

Then came Jordan. Almost 2 weeks past my due date. My epi did not work with her and I just was not ready for that pain. But she was born and mad. She cried a lot as did I. Then, after a day she was nursing like a champ. After a week she wanted to nurse all.the.time. And me expecting her to be like Andrew tried to put her on a schedule. She was MAD. She would not sleep anywhere but in my arms. So many nights of her crying next to me in her bassinet me trying to make her sleep without me. When Chad read in a book that some babies need that 4th trimester. Some children need to stay in the womb mentally for much longer. And it clicked...she was a different child. Soon I got a sling and gave up on her being as "easy" as her brother. And life was good. I had to explain myself often. I was judged more often than I would like to know. I know people thought I was doing it all wrong and thought I was a push over. BUT...my husband supported me, it made me a better person to be around, and Jordan found her happy place. I was able to play with Andrew a lot more, and he became happier. We were good. And so what if J didn't take a bottle? That meant no going out for me, or date nights for Chad and me. But it wouldn't be forever now, would it?

Jordan was weaned at 14 months(or 15...can't remember). She still slept with us. My arms were all she knew for that entire time. Alone at night was not something she knew. But what was most important was during the day she was independent, confident, smart and happy. She still is. Also around age 9 months loved real food. Baby food was not her thing. She was having what we had to eat. Her first birthday meal? BBQ. She loved it. And she was already potty training. In THAT point...she WAS easy! Lucky me!

Today at age 4 , she still loves my arms. But she is trying....baby steps. In her brother's room will last her until around midnight or 1am (tonight it was 3am!! And she went back to bed, but she had a friend over too). She is a great eater, has wonderful communication skills, is compassionate, and truly loves her family and friends. I am so very proud of this little person, and what is funny is that although Chad and I have guided her, she was meant to be like this. An old soul if you will.

So to you Jordan, thank you. Thank you for being such a sweet sister to your wonderful brother. Thank you for teaching your daddy and I how to become the best parents for YOU. Thank you for opening my eyes and seeing the world in a different way.

In my best fancy talk that we so love to do:
Dahling Jordan. You, my dear, are lovely. I love you as big as the universe.

Happy Birthday. MOM

J Singing

2008-07-18T16:32:00.002-05:00

In one Andrew was there for support. :)
Enjoy!

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Greer Farm, We Love You

2008-07-16T11:09:00.028-05:00

For 7 weeks I counted down my one and only vacation this summer.
For 7 weeks the children asked daily if it was time to go to the farm.
For about a week before we went I even sent Mr. Greer many emails about what to expect, where to get fresh veggies, what to expect….etc. I am sure he thought I was a little too excited. Haha.
The night before leaving I could not sleep at all. Chad found me at 3 am on the Greer Farm blog. I know he thought I was a little too excited. I suppose I was.
You know when you have high expectations about something only to have those expectations come crashing down? I was a little concerned that would happen.
Quite the opposite. I was blown away, my expectations were nothing compared to what we experienced as a family. So much so, that this blog is going to have chapters. Haha. Yes, I am a bit of a dork….but so many people are waiting to hear about my experience so that they could book a weekend. So I am going to share them in my own Kandi way…details and probably more than you ever wanted to know.
This is for the 5-6 of you who really wanted to know what it was like. You will meet through pictures friends we made, not all human. You will be given trips for your trip. You will be introduced to the little weekend that I discovered once again what happiness is.

Chapter 1: The Drive (this will be short, don’t worry).
I could not get out of the house fast enough. Neither could Andrew considering he woke up way earlier than usual with the first words coming out of his mouth being “Today we go to the farm!!!”. I had prepared a bag for each kid that consisted of a juice box, a sandwich, grapes, paper, markers, and a map drawn by me with the few major towns that we would pass. The map was because children love to ask “when are we going to get there?”
Andrew traced the line between towns with a different color once we hit each new big town. It was a great idea because he got it, he knew when we had a long way to go and when we were getting super close. Jordan tried but she would just rather play with her toys.
3.5 hours later, we arrived. It would have been sooner but we hit construction.

Chapter 2: Our 1st Day

Upon pulling into the driveway, Sid Greer arrived on his golf cart to greet us. Into the house we went to check in. As beautiful as the house was, he was not even a tad bit worried that immediately my kids wanted to investigate the cool stuff that homes over a hundred years old have, like old door knobs that you can peek through and the like. The kids found themselves in the kitchen to be greeted by mounds of different types of tomatoes. Sid (Mr. Greer) decided to load Andrew’s hands up with tomatoes and told him to share.

We were then told to follow him to our cabin. He welcomed the kids when they asked if they could ride with him (and made a witty comment about if he could fit so and so it could fit the two of them. Haha). Andrew was so excited, and as he was getting into the golf cart he asked if he could eat the tomato, I said of course. Like an apple he chowed down and his sister followed his lead (but she waited for salt back at the cabin after a few bites).
The cabin was lovely and honestly not as small as I had expected. A nice sized bathroom. No bath, but a large shower with a high and lower removable shower head. It was just the kids’ size so them taking a shower was no big deal. Now getting sand out of little crevices was a big deal.

While Chad went to the grocery store to get meat and such, the three of us explored. We spotted Eva (Mrs. Greer, Chef Eva) across the lawn with a friend; they were working in the yard. Andrew really wanted to meet her; he had never seen a GIRL chef. Haha. So we headed over and after she said her goodbyes to her lovely friend, she got to know us a bit and walked Andrew around her herb garden. Some herbs he knew and some he didn’t. We all learned something. She told us about her two goats that were their pets. The kids wanted to meet them so we headed over to the barn. After seeing that the kids were completely comfortable with these two goats, and since Eva is obviously a busy woman, she headed back to work and the kids stayed and played with Flopsy and Lightening (Lightening likes to munch on clothes, Flopsy just goes with the flow). After about 15 minutes we said our goodbyes to the goats (and hens, and geese) and walked back to the cabin. Andrew had a few herbs he had picked snuggly in his pocket along with a rock, a leaf and who knows what else.

A couple hours later while we were inside cooling off, we had a knock on the door. Sid was letting us know that it was time to gather eggs and feed the goats. Shoes on and out the door in 5 seconds flat. Another family showed up during this time, so there were 5 kids all wanting to gather eggs. Some wanted to touch the hens yet Jordan did NOT. I have to say that Sid is a patient man. That or he just pretends to be. Those kids were all over the place!

It was a long day so we decided to explore (and try our hand at fishing) some more then start talking about dinner since it was already 6 o’clock. Hot dogs and s’mores were featured.

Chapter 3: Day two-The Best Day

After a yummy breakfast of farm fresh eggs and sausage, we were ready to start our long day.
Jordan wanted to pick berries, and I was pretty pumped about it too. I knew, though, that I shouldn’t expect too much. It was hot and Jordan tends to get grumpy in heat. She and I got our sunglasses and off we went. The guys were getting ready to head up to the house to reserve a boat for the morning and then to try their hand at fishing.
A small walk up the road and we were there ready to pick berries. We grabbed a wagon and some buckets and started out adventure. Blueberries first. It was so much fun. Seriously. Jordan and I talked, bonded, oohed and awed over berries. And most of the time Jordan had more berries going in her mouth than in her bucket. We complimented each other’s berry picking skills and how lovely the day was. Lot’s of proper conversation with sentences ending with dahling and dear. The blackberries were beautiful and stained Jordan’s teeth quite nicely. I also saw why they had gloves up front, I had no idea that blackberry stems had thorns. So make a note when you plan your trip to maybe bring gloves for little hands. Jordan did fine though, and we had an agreement that I got the hard to get berries and she got the safe ones. After an hour she was not ready to leave yet, so we stayed a bit longer but had to stop. I still had to walk with her and the berries that we picked back up to the house to be weighed. All 7 pounds! I saw some people picking more, but Jordan and I were very proud of what we got and even more proud of what a great time we had bonding. I get teary eyed typing this, she made me so proud that morning.

We saw the guys off in the distance fishing as we walked up to the farmhouse. Upon ringing the doorbell, Mr. Greer weighed our farm booty (that’s me trying to be funny) and Mrs. Greer called from inside to have me take some photos of her table setting that she was preparing for a dinner party that evening (I wonder how that went?). So Jordan and I headed into the house. We talked as I took a few pictures (wish I had my other lens with me, but I worked with what I had).

Mrs. Greer asked where Andrew was because she wanted his help making blackberry limeade (she knows that he wants to be a chef one day). He was fishing so she asked Jordan. Jordan’s job was to juice the limes, and she juiced MANY! While Jordan was juicing and munching on the berries in front of her, Mr. Greer invited me to look at some photos that were taken recently on the farm. Awesome awesome photos. I don’t know if I can give details about them so I won’t. But So cool. Then back to the kitchen where J was still juicing.
Let me stop to say something (ok, I know I have said so much already…hush). The Greers are incredible people. From what I have read, they have a pretty cool and cultured history. They have done and seen so much. They know about other cultures and foods and people. So to have them invite my family into their home and take that time means more than words can say. From the outside you think simple small town farm people. But there is so much more wisdom and history there that they are more than what could ever be described. Talking with them I wanted to in the beginning I guess….impress them? Maybe not impress but maybe prove myself. When finally, standing there in the kitchen I decided to just shut up and listen. Not try to know everything but to step back and be quiet for once and learn, listen, watch, and absorb the moment. Observe my almost 4 year old daughter being so serious in juicing her limes, and her berry stained mouth. To observe this kitchen I was standing in and the people coming and going. Take in everything, this moment. Because as simple as it may seem to others to stay on a farm (they would much rather do something for extravagant), this was in itself a reason to make me slow down. Learn. Appreciate. Ok…back to my story.
In the kitchen I learned how to make blackberry limeade, tasted blackberry cobbler and was introduced to tomato pie that really made me happy (I have made two pies already!). Soon it was time to go, Mrs. Greer had to finish prepping for that evening and we wanted to let the guys know that we were alive. We said our goodbyes.

The boys had caught a fish! Yeah! A little one but we were proud! It was almost 11:30 and had only half an hour left on the boat, so Jordan and I headed out to use the paddle boat. We paddled, were yelled at by the geese and after a while Andrew joined us. Lunch time.

After lunch I wanted to try to read one of the 3 books I had brought from the library, so while the kids watched their one movie of the weekend and Chad chilled…I headed outside with my book. But you know what? I got sidetracked by a little caterpillar trying to make his way through the forest we call grass. Then I stopped to smell the outdoors. Nope, I wasn’t going to read a book. I was going to savor this weekend. So I lay in the grass looking at the lake, listening to the birds, watching the random bugs and animals passing by. I did get some reading done after a while, the cabins are filled with cool magazines like Texas Monthly and the like. So I read an article on King Ranch. Pretty interesting history there.
Mr. Greer had told us about a local market to pick up fresh produce, and since we needed a few things for burgers that night, we headed out. Efurd Orchards was not too far up the road. Totally worth it for a taste of their homemade peach ice cream. Oh yum. After picking up a few essentials, we headed back to the cabin. Time for more play! We headed across the little lake to the beach side. Daddy and Andrew fished while J and I played in the water. It was then that Andrew caught his first fish! You should have seen his smile. He was pretty darn proud of himself. I was proud too.

I also haven’t mentioned a very special friend we made. Tux. He is the Greer’s dog who likes to play with the guests. And every day around 5 or 6, Mr. Greer comes driving by in his golf cart looking for Tux. He takes him back for a rinse off (Tux likes to lay in the shallow part of the lake) and Tux is right back that night with stick in mouth. He drops the stick, you throw it, he gets it, drops it, you throw it, etc.
This night Tux wanted to hang with us. So the kids played with him outside while Chad and I were getting the fire ready and burger patties made. We ate dinner outside (yummy greasy burgers too) and listened to music, danced, talked, laughed….just enjoyed each other. I made a delicious and easy dessert for that night. Simple canned flaky biscuits separated to thin biscuits patted with butter and sugar and baked until crisp. Then a simple blueberry topping (butter, sugar, blueberries heated until syrupy)…but we needed something else. Bluebell Homemade Vanilla ice-cream. Yum. I think I gained a few pounds this weekend.
Time for bed. Tux made his way up on our porch.

Chapter 4: Day 3 Our Departure
Wanting to have some alone time and watch the sun rise, at 5:20am I got dressed and grabbed my camera for a morning walk. It was still dark, so when I opened the door I heard a noise on the front porch. I just KNEW it was a crazy raccoon about to jump on me. But it was Tux. With his stick. He dropped it in front of me and I threw it…haha. You get it. So Tux and I walked and walked. We sat and watched the sun rise, we told the other animals good morning…and after about an hour, we headed back to the cabin.

No one was expected to be at our cabin until Tuesday, so Mr. Greer let us know that we could stay as late as we wanted. So we all headed out to pick berries again, this time for Mrs. Greer who Jordan overheard that she never has time to pick them herself.

It was hot already, so were there for a short time. We had also reserved a boat for the morning but after 20 minutes on the paddle boat we drenched with sweat. Everyone was ready to get inside. The kids missed their own dog, so we decided to head out anyway. We loaded up, went to the house to return the key and pay for our boat rentals.
I wanted to give Sid a big ol’ hug, but I realized that not everyone is as touchy as me, so I just said thank you and goodbye.
In closing, this goes out to The Greer’s and everyone else that makes the Greer Farm what it is.
Thank you. Thank you for your hospitality. Thank you for sharing your land. Thank you for making my one weekend I had open completely worth it. Chad even told me on our last day, as he hugged me, “thank you for planning this weekend. We as a family really needed this. I can’t wait to come back”. Chad is a man of few words, so this melted my heart. Thank you, and a big virtual hug to Sid and Eva.. Oh, and we owe you for the berries. Once in the car I realized we didn’t pay you for Saturday’s picking. We will pay you for them.
Now off to whiten my berry stained teeth

http://www.greerfarm.com/

The Saddest Story in the World

2008-06-24T18:04:00.002-05:00

J: Mommy, the toilet goes to Egypt, right?
Me: Um, not really.
J: Mom? (tears and sad face) So roly-polies don't go to Egypt? (tears rolling down face) They go to roly-poly heaven? I don't want my roly-poly to go to heaven. I wanted him in the back yard!
Me: What happened?
J: He fell in the toilet when I was trying to save him (sobs)
Me: (at this point all I could do was hug and lie) No honey. Roly Polies know how to swim and he will survive and find his way to a lake.
J: lets say a prayer. Dear Jesus and God, please help my roly poly survive and not die. He is not ready to see you. (cry cry cry)

Poor girl.

Inspiration is Good

2008-06-17T20:09:00.004-05:00

A little ego boost is good.

A bit of great info is good.

And I have a dear friend who rocked my socks before I met her who is just what I need.

That is all.....

Thoughts

2008-06-06T14:32:00.002-05:00

Today I am

Watching:
My children using their imaginations

Listening:
To a knight and a princess fighting a dragon

Creating:
banana and blueberry skewers

Doing:
editing Beth's pictures

Thinking:
Of creative ways to make this summer memorable

Reading:
The first page of the Bible to the kids

Delighting:
in inspiring blogs

Promising:
myself to go to boot camp in the morning

Feeling:
like I need some fresh air

Welcome to...

2008-06-05T22:44:00.004-05:00

Summer Vacation.

Today my 6 year old told his kindergarten classmates goodbye.
They signed shirts.
They signed yearbooks.
They were sprayed with silly string by their loving teacher.
The walked out of that school no longer the youngest in the school.

So, what now? We have one weekend trip planned because the rest of the summer I am have sessions scheduled every Saturday. So pretty much Chad is in charge of Saturday outings.

So today we took out a roll of brown packaging wrap and wrote down things we would like to do this summer during the week:

Go to a farm (will be taken care of on our weekend trip)
Make a homemade blueberry pie
Sell lemonade on the corner
Picnic in town square
Make cookies for someone who needs cheering up
Watch clouds all day (Jordan's idea)
Spend a day at farmers market
A day at Turner Falls
Make a fairy garden
Have a slumber party
Touch an animal that we have never touched
Make a new friend
Try a new snow cone flavor every week

Since I am watching a wonderful baby boy twice a week now, I needed go-to things to keep them busy if I was in the middle of doing something...or if I need to edit pics and not entertain them.

The "I don't know what to do next" jar (and when TV is OFF). I would love any more ideas!

write a letter to a grandparent
make a map for a treasure hunt
puzzles
read a book
book on tape
tea party
clean your room
play with Lola outside
pray
yoga
draw a picture for daddy
write daddy a letter
color
playdough
write a story
dust
help sort laundry
look through a cookbook and write down ingredients for a dish you want to make
water paint on fence
trampoline
make up a dance
make up a song
prepare a concert for the night
dress up as someone else
think of 5 things that make you happy
paint your sister's toenails
give your brother a faux hawk
massage MY FEET! hehe
write fan mail to your fave singer
think of 5 ways to make someone else happy
make sure any little thing is off the floor so the baby can't get it
write a thank you note to someone who made you happy
call Dee
have a staring match

And last, I would love ideas on making summer

more special from you vets out there.

Hope.

2008-05-14T13:45:00.007-05:00

Yes, it has been over a month. Life happened. Business picked up. My food blog is being ignored. But....life is grand.

Preparing for summer, I am attempting to decrease my workload and take fewer appointments...because I have listened to all of the little old men and women who stop me in the store saying the words that many parent's hear.

Enjoy this time. They grow up so fast. Enjoy those little angels.

Aren't here a few songs written about the same thing?

Here is the deal. As much as I want to enjoy those angels, as much as I want to enjoy this summer...I am a wee bit stressed about the bickering. Because the last few months I have heard a very frustrated and vocal little girl screaming "No Drew!!!" over and over and over (and over). I have seen a 6 year old boy whisper little things in his sister's ear like....oh..."there is a monster in your room" and follow it up with a "just pretending". Yeah, thanks. She will never ever sleep in her own bed now. You see, they fight. They tease. They tattle. They play.

They are siblings.

This is life. This is how they grow and learn. They are old enough now to play and fight. To discuss and agree. To teach and praise. They are best friends...with a dash of enemy thrown in for fun. They are 2 years and 5 months apart....they are bound to be close and close enough to get under each other's skin.

So, now that I gave you a visual....I know you are on the edge of your seat waiting to hear my plan of attack for this summer.

Here it goes...

stay out of it. yes, me. They fight, they find a solution. So far it works 90% of the time. I tell them to discuss it and come to a solution. They are very cute in doing this. They sit down and face each other and come to an agreement (unless J is tired and looking for a fight).

a chill out spot. what is this you ask? Just that. I started off with one spot, but they fought over it. Imagine that. So now we have two. Two rugs, two baskets full of inspirational books, music, stories on cd, yoga cards, stones to rub, many things that has changed daily. Calming things. I will add soothing picture and maybe a zen type garden. This is a safe place to go.

books books books. Whether it is story time or reading at home....books seem to make them both happy

time with friends. for ALL of us.

no tv first thing in the morning. Better to start the day active and doing things and use the tv for the end of the day if need be.

and the other usual summer stuff people do. Go places, art projects, swimming, create, learn, lunch time concerts, picnics, just be.

I am sure I will add to ideas, but until then....there is hope.

Our Slow Down Sunday

2008-04-07T09:12:00.007-05:00

A few months ago I was overworked, stressed, and I missed my family time on the weekends because I worked Saturdays and Sundays. Chad and I were not spending much time together at all, I just felt like we were not connected as a family. Chad was a single parent pretty much on the weekends and I was one during the week.
One day while driving, Jordan requested to listen to her man, Zane Lewis. There is a song on his first cd called Slow Down Sunday, I have heard it a zillion times but something in me clicked that day. Sunday, slowdown, family time,mom's kitchen after church, the one day to relax. That was it, boundaries. I had to say no to working. Sundays will be saved for my beautiful family. Time to chill with my husband. Time to be...us.
I have enjoyed my Sundays since then, sometimes we make it to church, other days we sleep in (especially after shooting a wedding the night before). I feel that we have reconnected.
Yesterday was a normal Sunday around here, but the weather was beautiful. Chad attempted flying a kite but the wind wasn't cooperating, either way the kids had fun. I love our neighborhood, we live on a cul de sac and the children can play in the street.
Jordan either wears her ballet shoes outside or she is barefoot, so much like her mom. Little free spirit. Andrew is his daddy's shadow, it rocks. I love watching the family in action.
Enjoy these photos, a simple day in the life of the Ray's. :)

Sassy

The Performance
Isn't she lovely?
I told Andrew to blow the kite to make it fly
Growing up, huh?

Run Forest! Little girl loves running.
Andrew letting his sister win
Trying to be cool. It works.
swoon

My Mom

2008-04-02T09:37:00.003-05:00

Yesterday would have been my mom's 57th birthday. She passed away suddenly December of 2005, but it still feels like it was yesterday that she was here. Just now I can't call her to ask her about raising children, I can't take her out for a margarita (her fave), I will never have tortilla soup the way she made it, I will never see the huge smile she got when she saw her grand kids.

Yesterday I needed her more than ever. I wanted to ask her how to explain to my 3 year old why Nana can't come back. Yesterday would have been one of those days she would be THE person I would call to get advice about explaining death.

You see, Andrew knows. He understands. He cries when he misses her and will sit and look at pictures of her and talk about her. Sometimes he forgets what her face looks like and the pictures trigger his memory. He has been asking to visit mom at the cemetery, so yesterday I took him out of school early. His teacher sent along 3 ladybug books because my mom loved ladybugs.

The three of us picked out flowers to take to Mom. Once there Jordan wanted to sing Happy Birthday, so we did...that little girl sang at the top of her lungs. Then Andrew asked to talk to Nana.....and he did. He told her he missed her and he thanked her for being my mom. I did all I could not to cry because he is such a sensitive soul, and he would loose it if he saw me cry. Jordan then talked to her...she said she wishes Nana would come back to life and she loves her and misses her.

After reading some books and remembering Nana, it was time to leave. Andrew and I stood up to go and Jordan stood there puzzled. I told her it was time to go. Her little lips quivered and her eyes filled up with tears. Simply she said "I need to see Nana's face mommy". I told her we couldn't. Jordan shook her head and said "She is dead forever mommy? I will never hug her again, ever?". I told her that is true, though one day we will all see her in Heaven. Jordan sobbed, asking why she died forever....why God took her....will I die when I am a grandma and she won't have a mommy anymore....question after question. I was shaking trying to control my emotions so that I could try to heal her little heart. During this Andrew cried quietly and tried to console Jordan.

On the way home Jordan talked to Nana, even shared her drink with her. :) Chad's Grandpa who passed away after my mom also started "talking" to Jordan. So that was her way of dealing.

I miss my mom, and yet I know she is happier and healthier now. I know she is in such an awesome place, but I need her. I always have. As much as she would anger me at times she was there when I MOST needed her. She always supported me, she was always my cheering station, she was always proud. Always. To have someone love you like that is incredible. And though I know I am loved.....I miss HER love. I miss my mom. And so do my kids. So do so many people, and our lives will never be the same again.

I will keep her memory alive. I will cherish her advice that I was able to receive from her. I will try my hardest to remember what her hug felt like and her voice sounded like. Though her beautiful blue eyes are engraved in my memory. They were so beautiful.
I miss you Mom. And I love you. Remember when it was you and me against the world? :)

Happy Birthday Beautiful.

Lola the Jeeper

2008-03-22T02:06:00.004-05:00

So, Chad and I were outside the other day enjoying the weather and the kids being at MiMi and Poppy's house. Lola saw the doors off of the Jeep and jumped in and waited for her ride. She sat there for a good 5 minutes before Chad decided to take her on a little ride. Haha.

And More From Couple in Love

2008-03-11T11:26:00.003-05:00

A Couple in Love

2008-03-09T06:01:00.008-05:00

I had the pleasure to photograph a very cool couple today! Although I have a couple of other sessions to edit first, I could not resist playing with a few. :)

Snow People and the Adventures of Lola

2008-03-07T07:32:00.003-06:00

I have to start by saying...
No School Today! Yeah! I just hope the roads are good enough to get out. We need milk and more hot chocolate. Haha.
Yesterday we were all able to get out and play. Jordan wanted a snow princess...Lola went crazy and Drew was all boy.

SNOW!!!

2008-03-06T15:26:00.006-06:00

Drew got out 2 hours early and both kids and Lola were ready to play. :) Since these pictures the snow has accumulated quite a bit more!

Is it bad of me to secretly hope school is cancelled for Drew tomorrow so that we can have a lazy day with movies, hot chocolate, snow play, and baking bread?

Knock on Wood

2008-03-01T10:18:00.003-06:00

I think the sickies have left my house. Yeeeehaaaaw! It seemed on going.
Andrew missed nearly a week of school and he finally went back Friday. YES!

I am doing everything I can to keep this family healthy, from a major spring cleaning on Thursday to small lifestyle changes, there may be hope. I am open to any advice for a healthier home. I am kind of new to the natural living movement but I do know that I am impressed with vinegar and it's uses. So much cheaper than the other stuff. I am still not ready to give up a few cleaners, but with time.

I also said goodbye to my plugins. It was a very sad day, but I feel good about it. I became addicted to those little boogers.

Tonight I have a wedding to shoot (a casino theme at an aviation museum, should be fun!).
More later.

K

I Have a New Food Blog

2008-02-25T16:23:00.000-06:00

Come check it out!

http://ticklemypalate.blogspot.com/

Aaaannnd one more test.

2008-02-23T18:04:00.002-06:00

This one's just for me...Chad. Feel free to ignore this post...but only this one. Every other post from here is worth its weight in Jeeps!

Test Post

2008-02-23T17:57:00.002-06:00

I'm told the RSS Feed for this blog is not being updated on the client side it they should be.

Tsk, Tsk blogspot...

I'm testing this out now and, no...this is not Kandi. It's her geek husband...the *real* reason you subscribe. :) hahaha!

Post up if you get this update...pretty please.

Happy 6th Birthday Andrew

2008-02-19T09:06:00.001-06:00

My Drewbear, I am going to call you that for as long as I can ya know?
You have become such a gentleman and a responsible little boy. You want to make us proud and it worked. You are sensitive and loving, and I pray that you keep that in your heart your whole life. You have such a great sense of humor and when you smile your whole face lights up and your gorgeous green eyes shine. I adore you so much Drew, and I am so very proud of everything you have become and everything you will become. You are a special little man in my eyes and I know I am not alone in saying that.
I love you forever and ever times a million!
Mommy
p.s. Thanks for sitting and having a little cup of coffee and milk with me this morning! And you did so good on your announcements at school. See you at lunch!

Dino Daze

2008-02-18T19:43:00.000-06:00

Well, I was in a daze due to a huge lack of sleep. But we still made it to McKinney for Dinosaurs Live! The kids had a blast, they were all over the place and asking a million questions (which is a good thing).

Here are a few pics, notice the skunk that J is holding. Haha. She picked it out in the museum store, Drew got a bug catcher set.

While walking and looking for dinosaurs, Jordan got a little scared so Drew grabbed her hand and protected her. He was such a gentleman today, opened doors and everything. Tomorrow he will be 6. *sigh*

Been a While

2008-02-16T18:16:00.000-06:00

Sick kids and busy life.

Here is our menu:
· Broiled Salmon w/Pesto Mayo, orzo and spinach with artichoke hearts tomatoes and vinaigrette dressing
· Steak Salad with Queso Fresco
· Creamy Fire Roasted Tomato and Bacon Soup with Grilled Cheese with Bacon, Avocado and Spinach
· Linguini w/clams and pancetta with four cheese biscuits.· Chicken Breasts Stuffed with Garlic and Herbed Goat Cheese and Spicy Roasted Fingerling Potato Wedges
· Black Bean and Chicken Chilaquiles with Spicy Avocado Salad
· Greek Turkey Burgers with Tabouli

Tonight I am editing some really
nice pics (Thanks Martene!) and I am listening to Elvis's Fever song. Love that song (thanks Amba for the reminder).

Later!

Food and Thoughts

2008-01-26T11:38:00.000-06:00

Ahhh...what a week.

sick kids-check
sick mommy-check
daddy goes out of town and comes back-check
2 fish gone to fishy heaven-check
Kids and Mom to get better-check

Tonight I have a 6 hour wedding to shoot and tomorrow is my day of rest...after church. Haha.

Needless to say I had a couple of meals not cooked and leftovers were my friend.

This weeks meals (some from last week)

Blue Cheese Crusted Steaks with red wine sauce
Turkish Meatball Pitas with tabouli
Cumin Dusted Chicken with guac sauce (courtesy of one of my fave new blogs http://desertculinary.blogspot.com/)
Shredded Pork Tacos with a spicy slaw
blt's
Blue Cheese Burgers with sweet potato fries

I love food and I look trying new things when I have time. I love getting the kids involved though sometimes they reallly slow down the meal. :) But I have passed on the love of food to the kids...mainly my son. Yesterday at school it was career day. He wanted to be a chef. He loves food network and watching me cook. He is curious about spices and their smells. I am so lucky to have two children who are not picky. The only thing Drew does not like is fish, and I didn't enjoy it until a couple of years ago. So there is hope. Jordan will eat anything but is not a fan a veggies though she will eat them. She loves red bell peppers though, so I can't complain.

Ok, kids are begging for lunch. I will share the career day pics in a little bit, because he was so cute and proud. :)

Making Bread and Menu Planning

2008-01-18T12:47:00.000-06:00

Since both kids are home today, we decided to make the whole wheat bread I have been wanting to try. I am also planning our menu for the week. Little steps to eat healthier and save money. :)

Here is what I have:

Mini Penne Pasta w/Spicy Chicken Alfredo (low fat version of course) with a side salad

BLT's with avaocado spread (going to use homemade bread)

left over night from this weekend

Turkish Meatballs with Pita Bread and a side of Tabouli (I will make a lot of tabouli to eat for lunch the next day

Thai Chicken Pizza

Saturday I am shooting a wedding- up to Chad

Sunday: Blue Cheese Crusted Steaks with Red Wine Sauce with green beans and whole wheat rolls that we are making today

2008-01-17T18:30:00.000-06:00

While cleaning up today I had to capture this. They are truly best buds.

Sleepless Nights

2008-01-16T23:29:00.000-06:00

I sit here at 11:30 at night wide awake. Not because I have much on my mind or because I just really want to be tired and grumpy tomorrow. I am awake because my usually composed husband is rattling the walls with his snores. About 10 minutes ago our dog (Lola) decided to join in on the fun. I am about to plug in some earphones and listen to music until the paper wads being thrown at Chad's head finally make him roll over and be quiet, or until I run out of paper.

Yes, at 11pm every night I get irrationally mad at this man....I tend to forget it the next day. Because I love him and he is my best friend. Because he reads 2 chapter's of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to Andrew with more animation than anyone will hear speaking with him on the phone. Because he will brush Jordan's hair after a bath until not one tangle is left and not one tear shed (something I don't seem to do well, she prefers daddy to brush her hair). He watches the kids when I have photo shoots without a problem. He can do this and put away 3 loads of laundry, clean the fish tank, change the air filters, and play ball with the kids in the few hours I am away. He rocks. He does. So I can forgive him of his snoring....in the morning. But not right now.

She

A Few Of My Favorite Things: 2011

Last Minute Holiday Craft

Christmas & Such

Friday Morning Musings

7th Birthday

We Remember

Light

Small Pockets, Faerie Dreams, Fried Flies, Pet Spiders, and SPARKLES!!

A Farm Camp....Stay Tuned!

Let Me Tell You About a Great Man

I am Still Me

I Am

Our Summer To Do Lists 2011

Our Month

Today I Am.....

19 Things to Do Before I am 38

A Smidge for the Month

Tiny Update

Moments of Happy This Week

Summer's Cheers To

Today

Jeeps, Bandaids & Happy Places

Spring ReDecorating

Seaside Florida: Part 1

I'm That Girl Who

King Huh?

A Love Letter to my 1st Born

Thursday Thoughts

30 Minutes

Happy 5th J-Bird!

Best of Dallas?

Yes Please

Best Friends-20 Years Later

One Lovely Blogger Award

Thursday Thoughts

There Is Something About

Helloooooo Summer!!

Ramblings

Walking to Save the Boobies

Hmmm...

Always a Work in Progress!

My Andrew

Biscuit Princealilly

An Apron and a Tea Kettle

Today

Blog Award Day!

More Fri 13th Happiness

Bringing Happiness to Friday the 13th.

Going Back in Time

California-A Visit to Grandpa

This Week's Menu

Happy Birthday Andrew

Love is in the Air

Just reminding myself...

Kandi's Favorite Things in 2008

Pretty Please w/Sugar on top.

Dear Mom

A Magical Day

Breathe...breathe...breathe

Happy Halloween Ya'll!

Baby it's Getting Cool Outside

Finally-The Ray Family Pictures-by JRP

Girl Day

Big News...my website is UP!!!

MiMi & Poppy Send a Surprise (Sussy)

My 1st Grader

Last Day of Summer

Today

Faerie Garden

4 Years Ago My Life Changed

J Singing

Greer Farm, We Love You

The Saddest Story in the World

Inspiration is Good

Thoughts

Welcome to...

More On Our Month

Hope.

Our Slow Down Sunday