Mommy undone...

V-day Love

2012-02-13T18:19:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day from my girls (Allyson is at school). Here are some pics of the little girls painting their hearts...

I mean how cute is this kid??

After Annie colored on her arm she was content to sort markers and crayons...

Adeline concentrating on painting her heart...

Abby proud of her Hearts...

A little Valentine's Day Decor!

2012-02-09T09:00:00.001-08:00

I was so excited when I found my box of ribbons and crafty "stuff" in my closet! I thought I packed it all away. So Abby and i quickly started to decorate with what we had in the box.

I love this banner you guys! It's from TomKatstudios I'm sure you guys love her website like I do!! It was under her Freebies section.

Here's a close up of the banner and print out...

Our dining room doesn't have much but on top of the table I put a little jar with heart confetti in it, I had this left over from a wedding shower. and then my beloved antique knobs.

In the breakfast room the girls made a bunch of tiny hearts, so we hung them in the corner. Of course during showings I have to take it down...

I've had to work with what I haven't packed and in our closet I found my box of ribbons and then this red gift filler stuff. So I changed up the apothecary jars...

The little girls did some heart painting...

This isn't much and what I normally put out, but I'm using what I have not packed and to be honest it totally helps!!

I have a pretty big cake order tomorrow so I'm busy with that. I hope everyone has a great weekend!!

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-07T18:14:00.001-08:00

So Glad That Monday Is Over...

2012-02-07T05:14:00.000-08:00

Oy.

My Monday was insanely difficult. It all started with me attempting to clean out the refridgerator and therefore breaking my disposal.

Of course the husband was out of the house all day.

So my dad came to the rescue. Very thankful!

Then a couple hours later Annie emptied an entire wipey container. I mean does this kid think money grows on trees?? haha! So of course I crammed them all back in the container, so not wasting them. LOL!

Then after a nice nap for the kids I did 3 loads of laundry. This is nothing new, just wanted to throw it in for dramas sake ;)

After nap Annie dumped the entire container of dog food on the floor. And again this dog food is $25 a bag not wasting that!

And minutes after I washed my hands and Annie's hands from the dog food incident Annie proceeds to poke Penny Pug in her bum.

This freaked me out and I'm sure it freaked Penny out...

On top of this Rough Monday I had a throbbing toothache all day. Thankfully the dentist called in some antibiotics for me until I can get in next week.

SO glad Monday is over!!

Praying Today is a little more smooth! :)

And this is the look I usually get when she's destroying, I mean exploring something ;)

One Sided...

2012-02-05T18:35:00.001-08:00

I may be completely alone in this, but do you have friends where you feel like you're the only one who takes time to communicate with one another?

Or do you have friends where you're the only one that texts them to see how's it going?

Or the only one that invites for play dates?

Or maybe the only side that asks to go on double dates??

Well I feel like so often I'm always the persuer in friendships. And let me tell you it's exhausting! It makes me wonder, is there a friendship there if I'm the only one making an effort?

Don't get me wrong when we finally get together it's fun. But why am I so frequently the only one trying? And the answer is not because I am out going.

I think that is an introvert cop out. If you want a friendship it takes effort. On both ends...

Just sayin'

Randomness but good Randomness

2012-02-02T18:14:00.000-08:00

This is probably totally random for my "readers" but it's been on my mind a lot for some reason. So of course I should blog about it. haha!

A couple of weeks ago I was standing in church and I had the random thought about the 2 babies that I miscarried. I was of course instantly sad but then I felt God tell me they are with him. And one day I would see them.

When I had my 1st miscarriage I was devastated.

Because it was my very first pregnancy I had the normal thoughts like, Can I get pregnant? Four kids later suffice it to say, that's affirmative ;)

With my 1st miscarriage someone in my church gave me a book that not only helped me grieve but it brought me closer to God. It's called I'll Hold You In Heaven. If you have lost an unborn baby or know someone who has I would recommend getting this book.

When I had my second miscarriage I was horribly sad, but I had the comfort that God was with me and the joy of my other girls. Through these 2 miscarriages God has shown me that even in grief He is there, His comfort and peace are there. Knowing this, and experiencing this has helped me through so many other hard times in my life.

All that to say when people ask how many kids we have I tell them four beautiful girls, but I'm thinking 6. Just 2 are in heaven.

I am thankful for my 4 girls! And thankful that through the heartbreaking experience of losing my other 2 babies that God taught me so much.

oh decor...

2012-02-02T05:37:00.001-08:00

This may make NO sense to anyone, but I seriously think I am going to go crazy with these bare walls!!

I miss this collage wall...

And I really miss this little book wreath I made and my little "M"...

And I So miss my fall decor especially those 3 pears... My husband doesn't get this part of me LOL

I miss the big book wreath I made...

I love this mini collage on my angled wall by the front door!!

And since we re painted the WHOLE house my hubby won't let me put any more nail holes in the wall.

I think this whole decor thing is freaking me out so much because I need my house, where I'm living to feel homey to me and to others. And currently I feel like it's so impersonal. And it'sslowly killing me.

Some say I'm a little dramatic... ;)

Wordy Wednesday!

2012-01-31T15:52:00.000-08:00

Since I've been feeling all sentimental about the girls growing up too quick here is an Adeline picture from one year ago...

And this has turned into a not so wordless Wednesday... Last night Annie was up with a really high fever like all night. I'm exhausted! Needless to say coffee is brewing and probably will be brewing all day... I hope you guys have a good nap filled day ;)

Take Me Back Tuesday!

2012-01-30T16:20:00.000-08:00

Look at this sweet girl! This was Annie about a year ago.

This picture makes my heart so happy and sad! Happy because I have a healthy baby! Sad because this baby is growing way too fast!!

Now look at this cutie patootie!! Growing too fast!

Jammin' Girls!

2012-01-29T12:55:00.000-08:00

Miss Abby on the recorder...

Adeline on the drums...

Annie on the recorder...

These kids are just so cute! If I do say so myself ;)

Sorry Adeline is topless, this most certainly will not become a habit!

She was wearing a princess dress, and said it was itchy so I took it off and she refused to wear a shirt saying her back was all scratchy...

New colors...

2012-01-27T08:13:00.000-08:00

Que the Neutral!

The big girls room was bright pink, we painted it a nice neutral so that buyers could see anything or anyone in it... I know if someone only has boys it's hard to see around a pink room.

Adeline's room was purple and again we painted it neutral...

We painted our room the same neutral, it was a dark green. And let me just say I painted it green because at the time we had bedding that looked great with it. Well about 3 months after we moved in I found this bedding on clearance at Target. You see I have this problem, anytime I see a Red Tag at Target I get all excited and have to have it. And now years after we bought this red tagged bedding I HATE it... So moral of the story i need to stop buying things just because they are on clearance. At the same time I hope my husband doesn't read this! Haha!

Our bathroom was just builder grade paint, so we added some paint to it. Which is what I've been wanting to do for years. But oh well....

And Annie banana kept following me as I took pictures, and she would say, "CHEEEEESE"

We've taken almost all things off the walls, and most decor down, and frankly it's KILLING me know having my house "decorated" But we are ready to move when the time comes!

Happy Friday!

up early

2012-01-26T03:16:00.001-08:00

I figured since I woke up at 4 this morning I would write a short blog!

I'm in a blogging funk. I guess with everything that's going on I have no creative juices to write. But I'm sure they will come back.

There are so many good things in the works that I'm sure in time it will be into a routine again.

Until then I hope everyone has a fabulous nap filled day ;)

Mama Mia!

2012-01-21T19:42:00.000-08:00

It's been ridiculous here.

We have painted almost every single wall in this house.

I LOVE painting, but I am so over it!

Our bedroom use to be a dark green, now it's a neutral.

And the girls rooms were pink and purple and now they are neutral.

I will try and post pictures of before and afters soon.

I hope everyone has had a less busy week!

Showings!

2012-01-16T17:04:00.000-08:00

Let me just tell you we listed our house a week ago, and we have had a showing everyday except for Saturday.

It's been nice, but crazy!

Having to keep the house perfect and ready to be shown at the drop of a hat is not easy with four kids and a dog.

So while I'm excited, I am exhausted!

But I know God is working!

I hope everyone has a great week!

Mini Chocolate Chip Cookies!

2012-01-13T10:38:00.000-08:00

Weight Watchers has a recipe for 1 point cookies, and they are good!

I made some today because a friend invited us over for dinner while our house is being showed.

Here's the recipe

A little tip: after each time you use your teaspoon to measure out the dough dip it in flour to keep the dough from sticking.

These get your sweet tooth fix and are really easy.

Enjoy!

BTW excuse the paper plate they are on, all of our plates are packed away

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-11T03:14:00.001-08:00

Oh this kid...

French Bread Recipe!

2012-01-09T19:32:00.000-08:00

Well Hello Tasty Tuesday!

Now don't get use to Tasty Tuesday because I may not be consistent with it. But this Tuesday I have a bread recipe that you must try.

This is a double batch:

Dissolve 2 packages of yeast. I buy it in bulk so you would need 4 1/2 teaspoons of yeast.

1/2 c. warm water

1/2 teaspoons of sugar or honey

After 5 minutes of letting the yeast become active add: 2 Tablespoons of sugar or honey, 2 Tablespoons of olive oil, 2 teaspoons of salt and 2 cups of Hot water.

After that's mixed together, slowly add 7 1/2 cups of flour. Once combined place dough on floured surface and knead for 1o minutes. Place in a greased bowl. (I usually just spray the bowl with Pam) cover with a towel and put in a warm-ish room. I usually put my bowl in the laundry room. I've always got laundry going.

Once it's doubled in sized punch the dough. I love this step.

Then let the dough rest for 15 minutes. Sometimes I don't do this. And it still turns out great.

Divide dough in half and roll into a french loaf shape. Don't fret about making it perfect. Have fun it's homemade!

Put the 2 loaves on a big greased baking sheet and make 4-5 slashes across the loaves. let rise until doubled. I can't remember how long it takes just eyeball it. I'd say about 45 minutes to an hour.

It will look like this...

Now to get the pretty finish scrambled up one egg and brush carefully on the top of the risen loaves. Carefully, one time I just brushed it on too hard and it sort of deflated.

Put in a 400 degree oven for 18-20 minutes and enjoy!!

House for Lease!

2012-01-09T05:52:00.000-08:00

So this weekend we put our house on the market! We are leasing it.

With by far the best Realtors in the world!

Here's our listing if you know someone in the Houston/katy area tell them about it!

3346 Clipper Winds Wa, Houston, TX 77084 - HAR.com

Have a great day my friends!

mmmm!

2012-01-06T04:45:00.001-08:00

This kid is so cute.

She's a beginning Foodie. Every time she takes a bite she says MMMMMM!

My little foodie :)

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-04T05:14:00.001-08:00

Not Inventing The Wheel Recipe

2012-01-03T14:07:00.001-08:00

This is a super easy and yummy recipe!

All you need is a whole chicken, butter, and rosemary. Oh and salt and peppa.

So you remove the insides. This part is disgusting to me. I always have to have the water running super hot and as soon as I'm done I sanitize everything. Like 3 times...

Moving along.

You cut up the butter and put it in a bowl with some salt and rosemary. Fresh rosemary would be delicious, but I only had dried.

Mix the butter and seasonings together, Totally used my fingers for this. This is where a food processer would make life so much easier...

Then lift the skin off the whole chicken and rub the butter under the skin, and on top.

Put in a 350 degree oven for about 1 1/2 hours.

Let it rest for about 15 minutes and then carve that puppy and enjoy :)

Totally not inventing the wheel, but it's so good I had to share!

A Milestone!

2012-01-01T18:14:00.001-08:00

Tonight Ally lost her 1st tooth!!

This girl came home from school about a month ago saying, "my tooth is about to fall out!"

And for awhile she would let me tug on it, and then she decided she wanted to wait. So we did. Tonight she came to me and it was like hanging on a thread!

So after daddy tugged on it a couple times, she wanted me to do it and it came out!

She had to call her mogie (grandma) and tell her about it...

I mean really how cute is this?!

Little sister, Abby is so excited and amazed...

I might be as excited as she is!

Now I've got to get Shawn in that tutu. He's the tooth fairy ;)

2011 Pictures!

2011-12-30T20:47:00.000-08:00

Just a couple pictures from our year 2011...

To start off Annie turned One!

Ally stared 1st grade...

I planned several baby showers, and one bridal shower

Abby learned to ride her bike without training wheels!

Look how little she was at the beginning of the year!

Lots of dance sessions...

We adopted our Penny Pug.

I painted lots of little toes and fingers...

Adeline and her boots!

Ally so cute!

My beautiful Abby

It's been a busy, and very different year. But so thankful for it!

I have so much anticipation and hope for 2012!

Bring it!

Happy New Year my friends!

Peace...

2011-12-29T15:05:00.000-08:00

Today my best friend, posted this scripture to twitter and struck me...

"I'm telling you these things while I'm still living with you. The Friend, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send at my request, will make everything plain to you. He will remind you of all the things I have told you. I'm leaving you well and whole. That's my parting gift to you. Peace. I don't leave you the way you're used to being left—feeling abandoned, bereft. So don't be upset. Don't be distraught. John 14:25-27 (msg.)

During this huge transition in our life it's super easy for me to feel alone and confused.

And honestly the last couple days I have.

But when I read this scripture it reminded me that God's gift to me is peace. The holy spirit is here for me. I don't have to feel abandoned and left alone.

Even when I feel my friends are nowhere to be seen, He is here.

I am beyond thankful for that.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-28T05:50:00.000-08:00

Abby loves to play with her hair!

4th Kid...

2011-12-26T19:58:00.001-08:00

When you have 4 kids, you get more and more lax about stuff...

Exhibit A:

With the first 2 even 3 kiddos I would have NEVER allowed cotton candy at 8 o'clock in the morning. But it was Christmas....

And she was super cute...

See each time you have a cutie patootie you get more and more relaxed. You realize a little cotton candy at 8 a.m. won't harm her....

This kid is so obviously the baby.

Love her.

Our Christmas...

2011-12-26T10:09:00.001-08:00

This year we weren't sure what our Christmas was going to look like. When my husband and I woke up we realized how good God had been to us. We are blessed...

here are just a couple pictures of the girls...

Abby got this costume as one of her gifts, this girl loves to dress up!

Annie has got the hang of this whole opening gifts thing.

And Miss. Adeline LOVES her gloves. She is a princess for sure!

I hope you guys had a great Christmas!

Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-23T15:42:00.000-08:00

This is our most recent family photo, totally not Thanksgivng. But you get the idea ;)
Merry Christmas!

Another Birthday!!

2011-12-22T06:16:00.001-08:00

Today my Adeline Grace is 3!!

You are adorable.

You are imaginative.

You love Go Diego Go.

You are fun and outgoing.

You are awesome!

I love you my 3 year old!

Wordless Wednesday!

2011-12-21T05:59:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to the most Handsome Man I know!

Pretty Pretty Princess...

2011-12-19T16:21:00.000-08:00

Does anyone remember that game?

There use to be a game called Pretty Pretty Princess and I use to love it!

Anyways, I totally have my very own pretty pretty Princesses!

Here's my know it all almost 3 year old...

During this photo I was asking her to smile like a Princess, and she said I'm not a Princess I'm Adeline Grace!

This photo made me laugh so I had to post it. My Annie--every princess has an off day ha!

Love these girls!

A New Place Today!

2011-12-19T05:42:00.001-08:00

Today I am over at my friend, Ashley's blog today! It's a recipe you will definitely want to add to your collection. Go check it out!

Her awesome blog is called Domestic Fashionista!

Ashley, is my sister in Christ, a super talented DIYer, fabulous photographer and very fashionable!

Love her! Go check out my post today on her blog :)

Better yet add her to your Google reader, she's always writing great post!

Yo!

2011-12-15T19:02:00.001-08:00

Seriously you guys, Yo Gabba Gabba is like crack for babies.

The second I put on Yo Gabba Gabba all I mean All of the kids (Ally is at school for this picture) just stop and stare. It's hilarious and amazing.

If I want to make dinner without Annie trying to wedge herself between me and the cabinet I put this on. If I want to sit down and have some bible reading time I put this on. It's amazing.

So thankful Netflix added it! Ha!

Anniversary Cake!

2011-12-14T19:25:00.000-08:00

So gifts this year didn't really happen, which is totally okay.

But a can whip up a cake! So after getting some awesome inspiration from Mrs. Amanda I decided to give her Thin Mint cake a try.

And let me just say, DELISH!

I did a couple things differently, but it came out. Normally I am a very strict recipe follower. When I don't strictly obey the recipe it's always a big fat fail...

Here is her recipe: (You can also click on the link and it will direct you to it)

1 box chocolate cake mix
1 cup water
2 sticks butter (softened)
4 eggs
1/2 ripe banana
1 tbsp. cinnamon
1 tbsp. + 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

Heat oven to 325 degrees.

Combine all ingredients in a mixer on low for thirty seconds, then increase speed to medium and mix until just combined.

Pour into prepared pans (I used two 8in pans) and bake for 30-40 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.

There were only 2 things I changed I made my homemade chocolate cake (just without the liquid) Instead of the box cake and I didn't have a banana so I didn't add that. Oh and I added andes mints to the frosting. Because frankly I couldn't resist, when I think thin mint I think andes Those things are amazing!!

Amanda from Iambaker NEVER disappoints! So if you haven't checked out her amazing recipes, please do! Not only are they beautiful but they are really tasty!

Here's a picture of our 8 year wedding anniversary cake:

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-13T19:04:00.001-08:00

8 years!

2011-12-13T05:53:00.001-08:00

December 13, 2003 This man married me...

It's been an eventful, fun filled eight years! 4 kids later and a lot of change...

I'm so thankful to be your wife!

Happy Anniversary my love!

Number 3...

2011-12-08T19:38:00.000-08:00

Oh my sweet Adeline...

She loves to dress up and yesterday she decided she wanted to be snow white.

Here she is cuter than ever...

And of course a Princess has to make sure she looks like a princess...

Number 3 will be THREE this month! I can't believe it...

Time Flies!

2011-12-07T16:12:00.000-08:00

When I watch my youngest keep up so well with her older sisters I get all sentimental! She's my baby, I'm totally allowed!

She's adorable and funny and so much fun!

Look at this sweet face! This is Miss. Annie 18 months ago...

Now look at her! She's dancing with her sisters. My baby is growing too fast!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-06T20:40:00.001-08:00

Woohoo! On the road to having only 1 in diapers!!

Wedding Shower...

2011-12-04T18:58:00.000-08:00

I have a wedding shower that I am hosting this Saturday. So this week is super busy!

Here's a picture of some of my goodies...

Any time I have a shower of any sort or party I get my "craft" tub and keep projects that I am working on in there and any and all things that I will need for the event. That way I have it all in one spot.

I am also baking a ton. Very excited!

Can't wait to share the pictures with you!

Hope In God's Word...

2011-11-30T12:41:00.000-08:00

Romans 15:4
For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

I find so much encouragement and hope in this scripture. My world has been so shaky lately. We don't know where my husband will find the next job. We don't know what state we will be in. Which is exciting and scary (for the planner in me).

All we are sure of is God's word. He is stable. He is the only thing that is constant right now.

This scripture was written down for the instruction and encouragement of God's people. Yesterday, today and forever God's truth is God breathed for us.

It is my rock that I can stand firm on. When everything else is shaking, He is my rock.

For that I am grateful.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-29T21:37:00.000-08:00

I mean really to have the life this dog has... She's a lucky one I tell you ;)

Decorating our Tree!

2011-11-28T05:56:00.001-08:00

Here is our attempt at a picture of all the girls...

How cute is this kid, Adeline Grace...

Miss. Annie doing her favorite thing, rummaging through a box...

My cutie Patootie Ally!

Miss. Abby decorating the tree!

We put up our Christmas tree, but we aren't doing our outdoor lights this year. So looking forward to see what God is going to do in the coming weeks!

The Great Move...

2011-11-25T06:27:00.000-08:00

A couple months ago I had the strongest urge to move. I had it in my mind that we would move... like soon. I was super close to ordering literature on making the big move to Conneticut.

No clue why I chose Conneticut, but I just wanted to move.

I kept talking to the hubby about it and he thought I had finally lost it.

I hated change, I have lived here my entire life and was comfortable here.

But I just had to move. I was ready for something else.

About a week after I was ready to jet my husband and I went to a church healing confrence thing called Kairos at this church.

God did so much in both of us. He freed me from "stuff" I didn't even know I needed to deal with. I felt so free and so thankful. My husband felt his time at our current church was coming to an end. And he hought it was time to minister somewhere else. Our time line was sometime in the new year.

We both felt confindent in that.

The following week, my husband was let go from his job due to budget cuts. But both my husband and our Senior Pastor felt the we would be fine.

And we are, the Lord is so faithful. But all this to say that desire to move that I had about a month and half ago was the Lord preparing me for what is coming.

We know we are moving. We know the Lord has a place for us somewhere else. We are just waiting for God's timing. Which is perfect. Not always easy but we know we have to wait. We can't make it happen when it is comfortable for us. We know that it will all come together.

I am so thankful the Lord put that in my heart because if all of this would have happened without me hearing from God I would be a mess and super scared. But I know He has us.

We are both so ready for this new chapter in our lives, and very excited to see where the Lord is going to take us.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T05:27:00.000-08:00

From All of us!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-23T05:59:00.001-08:00

a little rant...

2011-11-21T18:38:00.000-08:00

Today I went to the grocery store, which was insane of me seeing it's days before Thanksgiving.

I had 3 of the 4 girls with me and they where being pretty good. The store was crazy busy, but it was fine I got what I needed and was about to check out when I ran into an old teacher I had in high school....

She asked how I was doing and then proceeded to tell me how insane it was that I had 4 kids, let alone 4 girls.

And kept asking why in the world I would ever do such a thing.

Let me just tell you, it took everything in me to not say some pretty terrible things to her.

First of all do not say in front of my children that I am insane for having them. They absolutely are NOT a mistake and they are absolutely meant to be my kids.

And secondly I so strongly believe that God gave me 4 girl for a reason. I LOVE having for girls! Girls rock! I'm sorry you have a rebellious teenage daughter and can't control them. But I have one thing you don't--I love Jesus! And he is empowering my husband and I to be the parents he has called us to be to them!

I'm sure you can tell from my rant that I am so tired of being told how "crazy" we are for having 4 children. I love having a house full of girly girls. I wouldn't change it for the world. I am thrilled to think what the future holds with my girls. And I feel honored to be there mommy.

So please people next time you see a woman out with her several children how about offer an encouraging word. And if you can't muster up a kind word then keep you mouth shut.

--end rant--

Wordless Wednesday...Sort of

2011-11-16T05:37:00.001-08:00

I totally caught Annie falling in progress...

But Adeline came to the rescue! She such a good big sister...

Annie is so tough! Even when Adeline is practically ripping her arm off. But you know whatever ;)

the waiting game...

2011-11-11T12:13:00.000-08:00

As most of you know my husband was let go from is job as a pastor about 3 weeks ago due to budget cuts.

We've had God's peace through it and know that God is going to provide for us and bring something.

But until then we feel as though we are in limbo. We are in this weird thing where we know God is going to move us, we know he is going to provide for us. We know it's coming--but when...

Shawn keeps saying God's going to provide for us or he'll say God's going to do something big here. And I know that. Like I really do but there are moments that I feel so unworthy of his kindness and provision. You know what I mean?? I feel like yes he is my father, he is our provider, comforter, strength all that good stuff but sometimes I just can't fathom why. Why is he so good to us. We definitely do not deserve it. But the truth of the matter is--He is. He is here for us. He will guide us. Provide for us. And calm us...

Trusting Him for guidance and wisdom, would you join me...

Oh Yes More Rosettes...

2011-11-10T05:07:00.001-08:00

When I was making my rosettes a couple weeks ago Abby begged me to make some for her.

So when I made my trip to Hobby Lobby I picked up some pink felt for her. Did you know felt is cheap??

It's 4 sheets of felt for a dollar!

I just put a rosette on a bobbie pin and there you have it a rose fit for a little princess.

Miss. Abby and her new felt rosette...

This kid is so easy to please, love her...

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-09T05:10:00.000-08:00

Personalized Stamp...

2011-11-07T16:28:00.000-08:00

I forgot to tell you guys about one of my favorite birthday gifts I got this year! It's a stamp for me to put on my creations.

love it!

I feel so official!

I put it on my cake boxes before I deliver them...

And here's a picture to make you drool...

So much...

2011-11-03T19:02:00.000-07:00

There is so much I want to blog about, but I'm trying to find the words.

This is totally weird for me because I always have words.

Anywho, I have about 3 drafts that I just can't seem to post.

All I can ask is that my bloggy friends would just pray for our family. And please know we are good, nothing is terrible we just need to really hear the Lord and what direction we need to go :)

And since that's all I thought I'd leave you with this cute pic, this day Adeline was a Princess Super hero!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-02T05:26:00.001-07:00

The Bottomless Babe...

2011-11-01T05:07:00.001-07:00

I swear I feed this kid...

Anytime we leave the pantry open this child walks to the pantry and just grabs anything she can open on her own.

She's hilarious, and so independent, and definitely giving me a run for my money!

Rosette Bandwagon

2011-10-31T05:40:00.001-07:00

I finally jumped on the rosette bandwagon.

I had some brown felt laying around and thought it would look fallish...

Lately I love whipping out a quick little craft project. These were super easy and cute.

So remember my little collage on my angled entry wall I added some rosettes to my house of 6 frame...

I must say I like it!

Using what you've got!

2011-10-28T03:57:00.000-07:00

This week at Ally's school it is red ribbon week.

Everyday they were suppose to wear something fun. And yesterday was "tie" day.

Well being the cool 1st grader Ally is she didn't want to wear one of daddy's ties. But I was not about to go buy one (like she wanted). So I made a "tie"

And can I just say, I need to teach her how to brush her teeth neatly there is water splattered all over her shirt. --Moving along--

I remembered I had some leftover fabric from a different project that matched a plain pink shirt she had.

And after about 4 times of cutting it out and almost throwing my scissors that are so dull across the room, I finally got a "tie" shape.

Voila a 1st grader that liked it and a mamma that didn't have to spend a dime.

She's so cute...

And then she was tired of me taking her picture.

Early Christmas...

2011-10-27T05:21:00.001-07:00

So Tuesday my mom calls me and tells me to come over and get an early Christmas present. I was like Early indeed! I almost didn't go over because it was a long day, but was like hey if she wants to hook a sister up I'm on my way ;)

So here take a close look...

Oh no your eyes are not deceiving you. Yep it's a KITCHEN AID!!

Here it is in all it's glory. It's a beast, super heavy, with 3 attachments. LOVE it!

I did bring it home and make a cake. But it was just a box, it wasn't anything good. But I still got to play with it. I can't wait to play with it for years to come...

Thanks so much Mom and to my Hubby!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-26T05:21:00.000-07:00

Early Morning Jam Session

2011-10-25T05:17:00.001-07:00

The other morning Abby and Adeline decided to jam out while Curious George was on in the background...

Adeline was playing the remote because we only have one guitar...

Then Adeline got the guitar (the real one)

And Miss. Abby did some dancing...

Ok, and One last thing. I told Ally I had to get a picture of her before school because I never got pictures of her anymore. And this kid would only make her "silly" face. She wouldn't give me one smile...

But she's still cute ;)

Family Photos at Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-24T05:10:00.000-07:00

This is our attempt at getting everyone in the picture, you can tell little ones aren't loving it..

Here is Adeline's collage: She did so good! I love all of her pictures!

Here's Miss. Abby's collage: She is so photogenic!

Here's Annabelle's collage: she's so cute, I love all of her pictures too...

Here's Ally's collage: This kid is growing too fast, she's so beautiful!

I am so thankful we have such talented friends!! Our friend from church took these, she is so talented!

carving time!

2011-10-20T19:10:00.000-07:00

We finally carved our pumpkins that we got from the pumpkin patch...

Ally Loved digging out the "guts"...

At first Abby was not to sure about it all, but she came around...

And Adeline didn't want to have anything to do with the "guts"...

Here are my pretty girls with their own pumpkins...

Annie was asleep, but next year she will be able to stay up with us and she can get her own pumpkin carved!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-19T05:12:00.001-07:00

Well then...

Happy Wednesday!

A Girl And Her Shoes...

2011-10-18T05:23:00.000-07:00

Miss. Annie LOVES to wear shoes. She doesn't care if they are matching or if they are her sisters. As long as they are on her feet she's happy! And it's the only time she sits still, when she's getting on her shoes!

I usually keep all of our shoes in a chest near the front door, and anytime anyone gets a pair of shoes out of the chest Annie runs to the chest and grunts and whines until I put a pair on her...

You probably can't see it, but on the floor behind this desk Annie put a green bowl of dried cereal in the corner. I guess so her sisters wouldn't steal it...

And every once in awhile she would walk out of the breakfast room with cereal, I couldn't figure out where she was getting it! Cleaver girl... or the youngest of 4, she's learned to fend for herself...

You can tell she's quite proud of herself...

This week...

2011-10-17T05:17:00.001-07:00

This week the hubster is home.

I'm super excited to have him home all week on our staycation...

He's cute. I think I'll keep him ;)

Taming Hair Accessories...

2011-10-13T05:41:00.000-07:00

When you have 4 girls like I do, you will come to realize that hair accessories can consume your bathroom...

if you let it.

I had this idea to use a photo memo board. You know this thing...

Then because I am to lazy to whip out the level and tape measure I stapled a ribbon to the back of the memo board.

Like this....

This way you can hang all the bows and clips and the hardest thing to tame--headbands!

Like this...

Simple and easy for the girls to get their hair accessories they want for the day, AND put it up. All by themselves :)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-12T05:18:00.001-07:00

Latest Project...

2011-10-11T18:21:00.000-07:00

I saw this really cool tutorial on book wreaths awhile ago, and I did a circle wreath here.

Well the other day I saw this awesome blogger do a square wreath with rolled pages. Loved it!

So I did my own version. Mine doesn't really look square but it is on a square frame. I used one I had in my craft closet, about 50 or so rolled pages, and some hot glue. And of course needless to say lots of burns later...

I didn't really know what to put inside the wreath, then I remembered I bought a little "M" from Hobby Lobby. Hello perfect spot...

When I first finished I had it in the kitchen, I didn't really love it there. So I moved it to the Dining room and love it!

I might lower it a bit, but other than that I like it in between the windows.

I love whipping out quick and easy craft projects like this, it makes me feel like I'm getting stuff done. A little weird, but true...

Smiles...

2011-10-11T05:54:00.001-07:00

These girls are so pretty,

I just have to share some pictures of their beautiful smiles...

Sorry it's so washed out. Annie was wearing Abby's princess hairband...

And my big girl (at home) She's so pretty...

Miss. Allyson is at school. I need to remember to whip out the camera when she gets home!

Pumpkin Patch But No Pumpkins...

2011-10-10T05:17:00.001-07:00

This weekend we went to a local pumpkin patch.

And would you believe it I got NO pictures of the girls picking out their pumpkins??

At the pumpkin patch they had miniture horse rides, Ally and Adeline loved the horses!

Adeline's loving that the horse is her size...

My mom getting Annie to touch the horse...

Abby was having a rough day, she was a turd the whole time, but I stole one picture...

Adeline was saying that she wanted to ride a pony, so I sat her on it and as soon as it was about to walk she wanted off. But I got a super cute picture of her on it. I was very impressed, normally Adeline is very cautious...

Ally on the horse... Side note: this kid is getting so big! I mean look at her! Stop growing Ally be my little girl forever!! end side note...

We had lots of fun and each of the girls picked out a pumpkin. I even got a cute pumpkin. When we carve them, I will post pictures!

Come on Fall weather!

7 things about me...

2011-10-07T15:55:00.000-07:00

Katie over at Chronicles of KT gave me a mommy award.

So I'm suppose to give you 7 things you don't know about me :)

Here you go:

1. I have been pregnant 6 times. But only 4 babies are with me, I miscarried 2 babies.

2. I've been dying to visit somewhere Northeast. Anywhere Massachusetts, Connecticut anywhere up there!

3. I use to swear we would never get a dog. Then this little girl came into our lives.

4. I've become a coffee drinker. Well when I say coffee I mean I like coffee with my creamer ;)

5. I'm So growing my hair out. I keep chopping it off. But now I'm totally growing it out!

6. I have 1 brother.

7. My best friend and I have known each other for 2o years! I love her, and my life wouldn't be the same without her.

Thanks Katie for awarding me!

Girly Girl!

2011-10-06T05:18:00.001-07:00

Even though Miss. Annabelle Joy hasn't been feeling great she has been loving her purse and phone. This girl is all girl, and I love it!

She knows she's cute...

Every time she puts the phone to her ear she says, low? Low? (hello)

Making sure she has everything in her purse...

And shes off, she's got places to go...

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-05T05:43:00.001-07:00

Someone actually let me take a picture of them! Miss. Adeline is a keeper, messy face and all.

Brunch Play date

2011-10-03T16:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had some friends over for a play date. For the kids of course ;)

If you're a mom you know good and well play dates are more for the moms than they are for the kiddos.

I decided to make it a brunch.

On the menu:

For our beverage I made Crystal light lemonade with fresh strawberries-Delish must try this one.

Crustless Quiche, I only had one pie crust pan so I decided to make individual size quiches...

Some fruit Kabobs for the mama's...

Then some fruit cups for the kiddos

Then I made banana muffins with strussel topping, I didn't really think this was good but the kiddos liked them.

Adeline chatting up her Aunt Sandra

The couch turned into the, trying to get babies asleep couch ;)

The girls were loving cuddle time with Mrs. Katrina...

I've been feeling lonely lately. Not sure why. I know it's the biggest lie of the enemy. And I was falling trap to it. Then I finally snapped out of it and got some of my mommy friends together. I really needed some time with good friends. I was reminded I'm not alone.

So thankful I'm surrounded by godly women!

Rearranging

2011-10-02T18:56:00.001-07:00

Every couple of months I get the itch.

You know the itch for something different. I just have to rearrange my furniture.

I've been like this since I was a little girl. I was always rearranging my mom's house growing up, rearranging the china cabinet. And always breaking the china while doing it (sorry mom).

So here is the latest arrangement.

I love it.

But it'll be different in a couple of months so don't get to attached ;)

Here's the new entry way, Why did I never put the buffet here before?? I love it!

The view of the window. Please excuse the crooked curtain rod.

Living room shot. Sorry it's so dark. I'm not camera savvy.

And here is some of my newest Fall decor, some glittery pumpkins. Love them!

Shows...

2011-09-28T17:51:00.000-07:00

The girls have a new favorite thing lately.

They LOVE to put on a "show" for us and really anyone who comes in the house. They beg us to put on music so they can do a "show".

They dance and sing and clap.

It's quite adorable.

Here are some pictures from their last show:

Abby wanted her hair braided and then to wear the Jessie hat...

Annie walks around clapping and dancing...

Ally belting a tune...

Adeline was dancing, but the second I whip out the camera she stops...

More singing...

I Love their Shows...

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-28T06:26:00.001-07:00

Busted!

2011-09-25T18:37:00.000-07:00

The other Saturday we caught Adeline being so sweet. She was sharing her yogurt with her baby sister.

See look how sweet...

And then...

A big mess was made, but my 2 year old was sharing. That's big. I'll take that with a mess any day!

More Cake Orders!

2011-09-21T18:21:00.000-07:00

Last week when I did my smurf cake I also had two other orders. I had a chocolate cake and cheesecake.

I worked so hard on the smurf cake that I was excited to do two cakes that I had done already several times.
Here's what they looked like...

Yay for a little extra money!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-21T05:32:00.001-07:00

Fall Decor is OUT!

2011-09-20T12:24:00.001-07:00

My all time favorite season is Autumn.

I love everything about it, the colors, the smells, the cooking. I love it all!

I so think I was meant to live in New England, but whatever...

So here is some of the decor:

Over the front door I have this Metal sign... I actually have a major door redo in the imagination brewing, just waiting on the budget to allow it :)

The new entry way, it is simple and I love it. Awhile ago Shawn thought it was silly that I bought these pears. They were on clearance at Hobby Lobby. I LOVE them. They were normally 8.99 each I got them for 1.89 each!

On one of the side tables I have these two pumpkins. And actually I have since moved the burlap. But am to lazy to take the picture again. You get the idea;)

Here's my dining room all Falled up...

Here's the centerpiece on the dining room table where I put the burlap from the living room...

Smurf Cake

2011-09-14T15:59:00.000-07:00

I recently had a friend ask me to make her a cake for her wedding anniversary. I was so excited/honored/nervous that she would let me. I am by no means a professional, so she was taking a risk! ;)

Her request was a blue red velvet cake with cream cheese icing. She also bought smurf toppers, and glitter. They make edible glitter now!

I made 2 practice cakes, both turned out green. Then I finally got smart and googled this!

The secret to blue red velvet is Royal blue food coloring with a tiny drop of violet. Worked like a charm!

I wish I would have thought to take a picture of the cakes before I frosted them.

But here is the progress of pictures...

This is my best attempt at smoothing out the icing. I SOOOOO need a kitchen aide mixer. It would help tremendously with the air bubbles.

Here's a picture of the cake with the smurf toppers.

And here is the finished product with a glitter "10" for their 10 year anniversary. And some extra bling.

Busy!

2011-09-13T21:25:00.000-07:00

I've been super busy!

Between the normal day to day that 4 kiddos entails, I have a couple cake orders this week. Which is super exciting!

I am working on not being such an "extremest".

You see normally if I have a blog motivation problem, and busyness I use to tell myself, "You just need to delete this blog".

But I'm working on not letting this freak me out. This is hard for me!

I know I'm a nut job.

I told my husband the other night, I'm working on not feeling pressure to blog. If it doesn't happen, I am not going to freak out. He said he was proud of me, because well... He knows me.

So this is me explaining. I do love to blog, but it doesn't rule my life ;)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-07T08:09:00.001-07:00

Destructo-Girl

2011-09-06T12:14:00.000-07:00

My cute little not so innocent 1 year old is Super destructive. She LOVES to go from cabinet to cabinet to empty everything inside. Hence her new nickname: Destructo-Girl!

yes, she wrapped a bunch of wires and cables around her neck like a necklace. Destructo-girl is well ALL girl ;) Don't worry no babies were strangled in this.

Let's face it when the 4th kid comes around you don't care what they play with as long as they are occupied (and safe).

Cookie Cake

2011-09-01T19:49:00.000-07:00

Allyson asked for a cookie cake for her last birthday. So I searched and searched for a good recipe. I found about 4 that I sort of tweaked and made my "own". To my surprise it isn't just your plan old cookie recipe.

It delish try it for your next celebration!

You will need:

1 c. butter (softened)

1/2 c. sugar

2/3 c. brown sugar

2 eggs (room temp)

1 t. vanilla

2 c. flour plus 4 T. flour (do it, it makes a difference)

1 t. salt

1 t. cream of tar tartar

1 t. baking soda

2 c. chocolate chips

Beat butter and sugars together, add vanilla and eggs. Mix flour, salt, baking soda, cream of tartar in a small mixing bowl. Once all dry ingredients are mixed well slowly add to the butter mixture. Stir in Chocolate chips.

Spread over a 15 1/2" round pizza pan. I usually line my pan with parchment paper just to make removal easy.

Bake at 350 for about 20 minutes.

And enjoy!

This kid thought it was YUM!

10 Day You Challenge...

2011-08-31T12:58:00.000-07:00

Like Southern Blessed Life I'm going to do this once a week :)

Here we go...

1.) I am addicted to chapstick/lip gloss. I must have smooth, moist lips or I get irritable. I seriously can not control this. It's super annoying to my husband.

2.) I have to vacuum at least once a day. If I don't I feel like my house is disgusting.

3.) I am terrified of roaches. One time we lived in a roach infested apartment. (dumb right). We had a huge roach on the wall of our master bedroom so I called my husband to kill it-no answer, called 3 of my best friends- NO answer. So I closed the door, and put a towel under the door so it couldn't escape until the hubster got home.

4.) I use to not be a dog person, until Penny.

5.) I love crime shows even though I am a big chicken.

6.) I hate my "southern" accent. So much so that I try hard to mask it. One time someone asked if I was from somewhere up North and I was like, oh my gosh thank you. LOL

7.) I hate falling asleep after my husband. If he falls asleep first it instantly gives me insomnia.

8.) In high school I actually payed to "tan" in a salon, it was the biggest waste of money. I didn't turn one shade darker. I know accept the fact that I am part albino.

9.) When we first got married I was the most terrible cook. Like ever. I've since had lots of practice, and I'm pretty sure the hubby likes everything I cook now. I think he was worried there for a little bit.

10.) And last but not least. I secretly want to be a business owner someday. Not sure how that will ever happen. But it's a not so secret secret :)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-31T05:25:00.001-07:00

New Collage Wall

2011-08-29T09:59:00.001-07:00

My mom got me a huge sheet of vinyls for my birthday. I love vinyls!

I knew I wanted to use some for my collage wall and some for other projects. More on that later:)

So here is my new collage wall.... In between all the vinyls I put up some of the girls art work and just a couple other things I had up there before. I love the way it turned out!

In addition to my exciting new collage wall here's a reality shot.

I did absolutely NO laundry over the weekend. This is what happens...

I still have 2 loads going in the washer and dryer...

Happy Day.

Happy Birthday Abby!

2011-08-28T15:19:00.000-07:00

Today my Abigail Hope is 5!

So many reasons why I love this kid.

To name a few...

She is adorable.

She's hilarious.

She's ALL girl.

And so spunky.

I can't wait to watch her grow up!

I am honored to be her mommy.

Saturday Morning Scene...

2011-08-27T05:32:00.000-07:00

Another Dress Up morning.

Breakfast is all done and cleaned up. Adeline whipped out her princess dress.

Such a pretty princess...

I love this picture, a double chin is so cute on a baby. Me notsomuch.

Annabanana loving on her baby.

Another Lampshade??

2011-08-25T09:07:00.000-07:00

Why yes!

So target had these lampshades on CLEARANCE! Yep that red tag is my favorite thing to see at Target. Ok so they are normally $19.99 I got them for $4.98! Woohoo! Yep you read it right, them. I bought 3... I figured since I have the whole changing the lampshade thing down that when I got tired of the colors I can change them out.

My mom bought me these lamp bases back in June.

We were at Target and I saw them on CLEARANCE and I about had a heart attack. So my mom bought them for me. I know I'm a nerd.

I had been eyeing them for a good month waiting ever so patiently for them to go on sale and of course when they did I had NO money in the budget to get them. I couldn't help but start breathing heavy and screeching when I saw the red tag. My sweet mom saw my reaction and bought them both for me. Thanks Mom!!

So for awhile they were sitting waiting for me to find a shade for them and finally I found some at of course Target and even better they were 75% off.

So here are the lampshades on the beautiful stands...

I puffy heart love them! They are symmetrical (for now), they are bright and they are beautiful!

Chicken Pot Pie recipe

2011-08-24T15:57:00.000-07:00

Yummy Recipe Time!

You will need:

1 package of frozen peas or carrots. (I use whatever I have sometimes I use mixed veggies)

1/3 c. butter

1/3 c. flour

Small onion chopped

1 3/4 c. chicken broth (I make my own broth)

2/3 c. milk

2-3 c. chopped cooked chicken breast

Salt and pepper

Cube chicken and then saute, I usually cook it up with salt and pepper and poultry seasoning.

Then in a separate pan melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, onion and salt and pepper. Cook stirring constantly until mixture is bubbly; remove from heat.

Stir in broth and milk. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly.

Boil and stir for 1 minute. Stir in chicken and veggies; remove from heat.

Preheat oven to 425.

Roll out pastry, I usually do only one pastry, just the top. (mainly just to cut down on carbs) I think it's better with both crust. But in the name of trying to eat better I cut the second crust out. blah blah--no fun.

Bake for about 35 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.

Enjoy! This is a great recipe for Fall, now only if it would get here already!!

By the way I put the chicken pot pie over a baking dish because sometimes the yummy goodness boils over.

One day I will learn how to photograph food, but take my word--It's gooood!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-24T05:25:00.001-07:00

1st Grade!

2011-08-21T15:10:00.001-07:00

I can't believe the summer is over and a new school year is beginning!

My oldest, Ally will be a 1st grader. This excites me slash breaks my heart.

I can't believe how quickly she is growing. I feel like it was just the other day I was praying over her in NICU praying she would be okay.

She beautiful, smart and funny. I know her year will be fabulous!

Saturday Morning Scene...

2011-08-20T04:56:00.001-07:00

Today I am 28 years old. (That was hard to type) And I woke up to this card next to me in bed, Ally made it for me and I LOVE it!

Book Wreath

2011-08-18T09:50:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to make a book wreath for awhile now, but honestly was just too lazy.

But after I saw this tutorial, I thought that's easy enough. So I took a quick trip to hobby lobby and got some supplies and had a little craft time while the kiddos napped.

Now let me just say, Styrofoam is expensive! But I discovered a little trick that might help you. They sell styrofoam wreaths in the floral department that have rounded edges, which were $8. I went looking around and in the craft section they had styrofoam wreaths that had squared edges for half of that I think it was $4.47. And because of the way I covered the wreath it totally worked. If I would have had a 40% off coupon that would've been even better! But I didn't...

Anywho, I followed her tutorial and this is how it turned out:

I hung it in my entryway, here it is again...

Here's a picture of some digital art I got off etsy that I love. Because well I love my hubby. Although he says it will confuse our children...

Here's the whole picture, kids and all! Let's face it, if I take a picture of something during the day chances are high one of the kids will be in it. But there cute so no complaints from me :)

A teachable moment

2011-08-17T17:36:00.000-07:00

The other day Abby bust out in song, which is totally normal for her to do. She's just like me--poor kid.

It was the Hillsong, Tell the World about You.

It goes like this:

Tell the world that Jesus lives
Tell the world that
Tell the world that
Tell the world that He died for them
Tell the world that He lives again
[2x]
Come on, come on, we'll tell the world about You

Well Abby was singing it, and you know it makes a mama's heart happy to hear her kids sing worship songs to Jesus.

But when she got to, Come on, come on, we'll tell the world about You!

Abby's version was:

Come on, come on, we'll tell the world about ME!

Oy.

I couldn't help but laugh and then quickly correct her.

This child is so sweet and has got such a tender heart. I love it about her.

She has since sang it the right way. But boy, what a teachable moment...

Nope Abby, it isn't about us. It's all about Him.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-17T05:37:00.000-07:00

Someone is close to walking!

Sugar Cookie Love

2011-08-15T15:52:00.000-07:00

Sunday I had to stay home because Miss. Annabelle and Miss. Adeline got sick.

So I thought I would practice making cookies. Lately I've been trying to decorate cookies. And let me tell you I have found the most delicious cookie recipe for you, I kid you not. Try it. Right now.

It's from the fabulously talented iambaker.

Now I can bake, so that's not the problem! What I am working on is decorating. I've got the base down. But the real decorating it, well let's just say I still need LOTS of practice!

Here is a picture of the cookie with the base color on them.

Even though Annie isn't feeling good she was begging for a cookie the W-H-O-L-E time. I may or may not have been pantsed several times because she was trying to get a cookie. Don't let this cute picture fool you, she's a cookie monster.

I let the girls each decorate a cookie. They loved it. Here's my Allyson aka Miss. Baker

This kid was waiting very patiently to decorate her cookie.

Then Miss. Abby decorated her cookie. In true Abby style, concentrating so much.

And now Miss. Adeline is decorating her cookie. She's getting so big!

This is by far the best sugar cookie you will ever try. I hope you guys stop by Amanda's blog at iambaker and check out her other recipes. She's Super talented!

I hope to be just like her one day ;)