Anything but normal

going, going, gone....

2011-06-01T14:29:00.001-07:00

did i fall off the face of the earth?

sure feels like it.

crashed. burned. tormented.

buried deep.

swallowed.

inching my way out. stay tuned.......

too loud!

2011-03-26T15:50:00.000-07:00

i was having hubby cut some wood for me.

buddy came into the garage.

went back in the house.

came out like this.

"jaxon, go put the pillows back in the house!"

"but, mom, i need ear muffs!"

need help with taxes?

2011-02-07T12:53:00.000-08:00

i know a pretty darn handsome tax accountant (my hubby, Conrad). he has been doing personal and small business taxes for 3+ years. officially certified with the IRS. he loves finding ways to get you an even better return! reasonably priced too!

if interested, shoot him an email: conanderson1040@gmail.com.

Christmas pictures

2010-12-20T11:20:00.001-08:00

Recycled Christmas Present - Puppet Stand

2010-12-08T14:23:00.001-08:00

we got this playhouse for my daughter's 5th birthday. about one month after we had it, a HUGE wind storm picked it up and threw it against our vinyl fence. because we were still under the 90 day warranty, we called. they shipped new pieces to fix it. problem. wrong pieces. so, we called. they shipped new pieces. problem. wrong size. called again. shipped correct pieces.

what to do with the "wrong pieces" that they didn't want back?

well, while on one of my many trips to costco, i found the CUTEST hand puppets. i bought 4 packs of them.

and then, it hit me. i knew what to do with the extra wood. now hubby had a job to do!

i am so HAPPY with how it turned out.

our out-of-pocket expenses:

roof: $18
curtains: $8
lights : $24 (battery operated LED. don't get too hot. i know an electrician who recommended them...my dad!)
puppets: 4 packs at $7.99 each = $32

ho ho ho! merry christmas!

p.s. - now the key is keeping the kids out of our 3rd garage so they don't get a sneak peek.

"mom, is dinner done yet?"

2010-11-17T10:06:00.001-08:00

"i'm tired of waiting!"

literally!

question?

2010-11-02T11:35:00.000-07:00

what does a mermaid, baby cheetah, and a confused superhero* with a wedgey have in common?

the three cutest trick-r-treaters in the area.

*buddy wanted to be batman. got a costume. the night of...he decides (or rather insists) he wants to wear his spiderman costume with the batman mask. only problem, that costume was his TWO years ago. needless to say, it came to his knees and elbows. so, for that night, i was one of THOSE moms.

p.s. - got great pictures of bud in his costume. placed the wedgy ones in a special place to "encourage" him with later on in life!

Cinnabun Pancakes

2010-10-20T14:38:00.001-07:00

i made these for my family last Sunday morning for breakfast.

they will definitely be added to our breakfast favorites.

recipe can be found on How Does She?

p.s. - i highly recommend the syrup from the recipe!

tallie 4 month pics

2010-10-15T16:23:00.001-07:00

i am surprised i was able to get these pictures.
she HATES her belly.

love this girl.
she gets cuter every day!

don't normally do this....

2010-10-12T10:19:00.000-07:00

....but....

i love these temple pictures.

go here to learn how to win one.

p.s. - you even get to pick which temple picture you want if you win!

p.s.s. - comes framed in a gorgeous custom built black frame.

p.s.s.s - size: 16 x 20

p.s.s.s.s. - (i know...enough....just one more thing) great christmas gifts!

zucchini cupcakes

2010-09-21T14:58:00.000-07:00

my bestest friend kassie brought me some MORE delicious zucchini from her garden.

the reason she is my bestest friend is because she brought me a recipe.

thank you so much for introducing these in to my life!

hint: caramel frosting!

recipe here.

??????????

2010-09-14T15:42:00.001-07:00

i am still here.

just drowning in laundry, dishes, dusting, vacuuming, preschool, kindergarten, photography, crafting, to-do lists, christmas planning/shopping (don't poke fun...want to be done by thanksgiving), budgeting, and cooking (sometimes).

check back later for a project update. i have a few i will post.

Dream Fairy

2010-08-30T15:33:00.000-07:00

that's what she calls herself.

apparently at night she goes around and "ZAPS" people with good dreams.

i am so glad that i now know that when i all of a sudden jolt in bed...i am being zapped with a good dream.

this is the..."do you really have to take a picture of EVERYTHING i do?"

the answer is yes. sweet dreams.

summer adventure

2010-08-27T09:01:00.001-07:00

our biggest summer adventure was welcoming our precious baby to our family.
but, we decided to do something fun with the kids.
so, we ventured to the salt lake area.
we had a bunch of fun things planned, then had the bright idea to ask the kids what THEY wanted to do.
their reply....swim at the hotel.
so, we bagged all the other ideas (that would have cost money) and did just that...
...stayed in a hotel...just so we could swimming.
but, we were able to do a few other fun things too.

1. swam at the hotel

and splashed

and talked

then, we had a talent water show.
whoever could do the coolest trick...won.

you decide the winner:

maycie learned that she could put her head...aka...her face in the water by holding her breath.

and daddy...did an underwater "hand sanitizer" as buddy called it.

(note: proof baby was on this vacation...upper right corner)

i think we called it a tie.

okay...i know you are all wondering what my trick was.
stayed tuned for the next summer olympics! =)

buddy took a few huge leaps and warmed up to being in the water.

2. ate at the Mayan.

3. saw toy story 3

4. visited temple square

buddy disappointed because he thought we were going INSIDE the temple.

princess just wanted to see jesus.

5. went to a parade

6. went to a rodeo

7. ate a greasy rodeo burger (hubby's favorites...weird...we know)

8. played on the beach at bear lake

8. dug for treasure

9. went fishing

crazy...but we caught the same fish every time!

10. visited the soda geyser

11. played boxers and briefs and busted a gut!

12. saw all of our family and cousins that live far away.

13. made it home with three exhausted kiddos that slept the whole next day!

Unbelievable

2010-08-24T13:09:00.000-07:00

i have a kindergartner.
(late post. she actually started two weeks ago)

shocking.
a few weeks before i had a melt down.
nervous that someone else would now be in charge of teaching her.
but, as the day approached, i wasn't nervous at all.
why?
because she was beyond EXCITED. not even the slightest bit nervous.
and the bus...she couldn't WAIT to ride.
(bonus: the bus stop is at our corner...fabulous!)

can you tell she is excited.
she woke up, got dressed, did her own hair, and put her back pack on.
then comes into my room (at about 7:45 am) and states that she is ready for school.
good news. i am so proud of you for getting ready on your own.
bad news. you have afternoon kindergarten.
it was a long morning of waiting.

i warned the bus driver before hand that i would probably follow her to school the first day!

she already adores her teacher!

and how was my afternoon?
nerve wracking.
i didn't dare leave home JUST IN CASE the school called me.
what a "first timer" i am!

i couldn't wait for her to come home.
i was so nervous she wouldn't get on the right bus.
or miss our stop.
but, she made it home.

and now, i quite enjoy, once again, only have two kids at home during the day.
but...he misses her the most and sits on the front porch everyday to watch her get off the bus.

cha-ching!

2010-08-19T10:27:00.001-07:00

to all my boise friends and followers.

i just scored BIG.

Marshall's.

for hubby.

4 polos.

3 dress shirts.

2 plaid button-up shirts

1 pair of shorts

1 pair of slacks.

ready.....

....$65.

two months

2010-08-16T15:51:00.000-07:00

Mmmmm!

2010-08-12T14:35:00.001-07:00

for delicious buttercream frosting...go here.
tried. tested. devoured.

and please...no poking fun of the cupcakes with green frosting and halloween sprinkles.
hubby made them. frosted them (i know, huh).
buddy put the "sprinklers" on.
definitely not martha stewart worthy.
but they are at our home!

he's such a multi-talented man!

laugh or cry?

2010-08-05T14:21:00.000-07:00

a few days ago i heard "the" words...from my princess.

"you're a mean mom!"

hhmm. didn't know whether to laugh or cry.

so i laughed at first.

later i cried.

now, for some reason, it just makes me smile!

bronc-i-fied

2010-07-27T10:52:00.000-07:00

my talented artist...aka...my SIL...painted this for us.
hubby wanted it in our toy room/house.
i didn't really want a large painting at all.

so, we compromised for the garage.

go broncos!

Toy Room: work in progress

2010-07-23T14:22:00.001-07:00

this is our secret toy room.

it was a dark, dungeon hole...with no windows.

paint dark brown.
carpet...dark brown. short. no pad.
the room felt cold. boring.

sorry, no before pics.
(i was pregnant. sick. tired. lazy.)

the new toy room:

paint. carpet. shelves.

that door goes to the backyard.
we have used it maybe three times in one year.
so, i didn't mind blocking it a bit.

when i had tallie, my mom was here.
dad here too...and bored.
so, i put his mad wood working skills to work.

he made each shelf out of one sheet of wood...molding and all.

and i came up with this idea myself...a little built-in pocket.
to hold all of buddies bats, etc.

found these baskets on clearance at lowe's for $5.

kids love their new toy room.
and, did i mention buddy loves monster trucks?

Backyard Olympics

2010-07-19T08:33:00.000-07:00

summers as a kid.
i don't remember plastic wading pools.
i remember....

...slip-n-slides.

so, i couldn't wait to give princess hers for her birthday.

on your mark. get set. GO!

other noteworthy landings!

an attempt to go on belly.

and my personal favorite:

the fly by!

Cinco

2010-07-16T11:42:00.001-07:00

princess turns 5!
wow. time flies and i'm getting old.
and she starts kindergarten in about 3 weeks.
sigh. melt down.

maycie has been planning this birthday party since she turned 4.
i, too, enjoy planning parties.
but, since i had a new little baby...and very little sleep i had no ambition to plan one.
so, maycie truly planned her party.

she wanted to do a tea party with her little girlfriends.
she wanted them all to wear their princess dresses.
maycie had hers picked out for months.
and...who could forget the birthday girl crown.

now's your chance to catch a kiss from the birthday girl.
did ya catch it?
good.
now we can move on.

as soon as she woke up.
she got ready.
and waited. and waited.

finally...it is time!
and look at all the princesses.

for her tea party, she wanted star sandwiches (peanut butter and jam cut out like a star), cheetos, strawberries, grapes, and cheese...a few of her favorites.
and of course, who could forget...princess tea (pink punch).

we played princess bingo, pass the poison apple, and had a princess ball (dance).

i made mini cupcakes (i personally thought the mini cupcakes would suit a tea party quite nicely but all the little princess kept asking when we were going to have cake). whoops!

she doesn't look like she is enjoying all the attention, does she?

make a wish!
she still won't tell me what she wished for.

and then, all of her sweet friends spoiled her with presents.

maycie had a blast at her party and is grateful for her friends that came and had fun with her.

NEXT:

our own little birthday party for princess.

we made her wait until after dinner (which she got to choose....BBQ chicken, with "her favorite rice" (rice-a-roni)) to open her presents. con thought that was rather rude of us because growing up that was the first thing they did in the morning so they could play with what they got throughout the day.

for her birthday she received:

her new favorite movie
(don't ask me why...i think it looks quite scary)

excuse the interruption:
diaper blowout!
(which explains the half naked baby)

okay, we're back.

she opened a new nightgown, scatterpillar scramble game (which her brother enjoys much more than her...looks like i gave it to the wrong kid...whoops...i thought only santa makes that mistake), barrettes, princess walkie talkies, and swim goggles (if you follow this blog than you know why she got those...no more using construction goggles!).

she got a slip-n-slide

and this beloved "pink journal".

don't know why...but this is what she has wanted for months.
we had to check every time we went into wal-mart to make sure they still had it.
it has a light. magic pen to write secret messages and you have to have a password to open it.
should i be worried?

and her special present:

a new playhouse
(which she has to share with siblings)

no moms and dads allowed she says.
this is going to be a better present than i thought! =)

she had to write her name/club on the plaque.
yeah, i decided i am not too worried anymore about the secret journal i won't be able to get into.
i really hope she just had a hard time reaching it...
...or we really need to work on her penmanship.

and finally, it isn't a birthday without a cake.
and, like everything else,
she knew she wanted this one.
(hey, i tried)
make a wish and it may come true...
...if you believe!

happy 5th birthday princess!

feeling left out

2010-07-12T10:18:00.000-07:00

i want a nap too!

Tallie's First White Dress

2010-07-09T13:34:00.001-07:00

Tallie was blessed at church on July 4, 2010.
What a memorable date!
My eyes watered every time I looked down at her.
Pure innocence.
She looked like a sweet, angelic princess!

love that man!

table and chairs

2010-07-07T09:28:00.000-07:00

for sale: table with 4 chairs...$150.

sturdy. in great condition.
white wood base.
oak top.
great for small house or apartment.
in boise area. must be able to come pick up.

want it?
know someone who might?

don't blink

2010-07-01T14:19:00.001-07:00

or else they will grow up!

minutes

hours

days

week

two weeks

three weeks

four weeks

love our tallie bear!

interesting

2010-06-27T20:36:00.001-07:00

not sure what happened to my blog.
templates changed.
accidentally saved.
yikes.
now what!
looks goofy.
any ideas?

friends vs. enemies

2010-06-24T11:26:00.000-07:00

sometimes their friends.....

sometimes their not....

caution: crazy driver!

improvise

2010-06-21T08:15:00.000-07:00

kids having a blast playing in the backyard.
princess getting more daring with the little pool.
started sticking her head in
(huge step for her).
wanted swim goggles so she could open her eyes.
don't have any.
"i have an idea" she states excitedly.
comes out with her lowes construction goggles.

she makes me laugh every day!

in love

2010-06-16T13:10:00.001-07:00

visit my photo site to see more

Tallie first week

2010-06-15T14:18:00.001-07:00

love this girl!

princess could not WAIT to feed "our baby" with a bottle.
right now i will gladly take a small break from nursing.

our sweet baby

2010-06-09T08:36:00.000-07:00

more pictures coming soon!

Beautiful Nightmare

2010-06-05T17:28:00.000-07:00

below is more for my benefit and knowledge...instead of for those who may read this. because we are woman...and we think we will ALWAYS remember. (times approximate)

Wednesday, June 2nd

morning: mild contractions. nothing too unbearable, but definitely stronger than had before.

1 pm: parents show up to help watch kids for my doctor appointment that afternoon...just in case.

1:15: con home from work. (actually surprised he lasted that long...getting extremely antsy when i told him i was having a lot more "action" throughout the morning).

1:45 pm: leave for doctor's appointment

2:20 pm: appointment time. get right in. blood pressure 136/72. total weight gain: 9.5 lbs. YES! you go girl!

2:40 pm: meet with doctor. strips my membrane. hold on....YIKES....SCREAM.....OUCH...okay now we can move on.

2:45 pm: set up an induction date. wanted june 3rd at 7 am. too full. made it for friday, june 4th at 7 am.

3 pm: leave doctor appointment. stomach hurts. still having mild contractions. we were going to go to mall to walk around...but hurt too bad.

3:20 pm: arrive back home.

6:30 pm: my mom makes dinner. have a hard time eating. contractions getting stronger and averaging about 10 minutes about.

8:00 pm: start timing contractions for reals.

11:30 pm: decide to get in jacuzzi bathtub. one thing that totally relaxes me. didn't want to go to hospital...just to be sent home. thought if bath made my contractions get lighter...than i wasn't really in labor.

Thursday, June 3rd

12:00 am: contractions stronger and closer while in tub.

12:15 am: decide to leave for St. Al's hospital.

12:30 am: arrive at hospital. get right into a labor room. hooked up to monitors, etc.

1:00 am: labor and delivery called dr. lovelace letting me know i was in labor. dilated to 4. cervis thinned 70%.

1:15 am: i need an epidural. NOW! (crying. breathing. screaming. and shamefully...slight swearing going on during contractions).

1:30 am: where is that MAN!...meaning the angel of labor and delivery. i need him NOW!

pause: how do woman do this without drugs!!!!

2:30 am: finally receive an epidural. sigh. relax.

2:40 am: dr. lovelace breaks water. dilated to a 5.

2:50 am: left arm goes numb. up my shoulder and to left breast. left eye starts to droop and turns bloodshot red. epidural had found a track UP. only solution...turn it off. NO!!!!! Please No!!!! (actually quite nervous at this point. epidural in chest...could start having a hard time breathing anytime which = emergency cesarean).

3:30 am: feeling contractions again. (crying. breathing. screaming. and shamefully...slight swearing going on during contractions...once again). i need that man again! couldn't just turn epidural back on...would follow same path. had to take out and start over. i don't care...just do it NOW!!!!! i have nothing to prove...and i want to feel as little as possible.

4:00 am: checked again. dilated to a 7. baby's heart rate keeps dropping. nurse kept making me where an oxygen mask.

5:00 am: checked again. dilated to a 9. getting closer. nurse wondering if maconeum (spelling wrong) in fluid. NICU on call.

6:00 am: feeling pressure and contractions...mildly. with jaxon, i didn't feel anything...wanted this one to be same.

6:30 am: my "angel" gave me a bolus shot (shot of epidural medicine through i.v.)

7:00 am: dilated to a 9. cervix thinned at 95%. doctor lovelace called (he was sleeping at hospital...thinking i was going to go quick). nurse asked another nurse for a second opinion about maconeum in fluid. decided not.

7:05 am: start pushing. extremely numb...and not complaining. problem though...can't feel where to focus my pushing.

7:15 am: dr. lovelace bored, tired and discouraged. told nurse to shot off epidural (not again please) and to call him back when baby has crowned.

7:35 am: feeling more as each contraction comes. nurse gets mirror to help me focus where to push.

7:45 am: dr. lovelace gets back. need to push. he isn't ready yet. have to wait. next contraction. one push.

7:49 am: tallie jo born weighing 6 lbs. 15 oz. 20 inches long.

I did it! I made it! So glad that beautiful nightmare is over!

Our angel!

2010-06-04T21:24:00.000-07:00

Our precious Tallie Jo has arrived.

Born: June 3rd at 7:49 am

Weighed: 6 lbs. 15 oz.

She's cute. She's adorable. She's precious. She's angelic. She's perfect.

We are already so in love with her.

(pictures and details to follow)

catching up to fall behind....

2010-05-26T10:16:00.000-07:00

these are all 12x12 two-page layouts

vain or confidence?

2010-05-24T07:37:00.000-07:00

buddy: "dad?"

dad: "what bud?"

buddy: "how come your haircut isn't handsome like me?"

deadwood

2010-05-16T15:55:00.001-07:00

bored last saturday.
beautiful weather.
packed hot dog and mallows.
headed towards the mountains.
not from around here.
didn't know where to go.
explored.
found a day-use campground....deadwood (by lowman, id).
perfect!

by the river.
buddy in h.e.a.v.e.n.

princess found it amusing that when you get rocks wet,
they change colors. simple pleasure.

the wind up.

dad taught him how to skip.
his attempt to imitate dad.

my three amigos.
fourth hopefully arriving VERY soon.

and, we all know you can't go in the mountains,
build a fire, and not roast mallows.
s'mores.
yum!~

the yummy result:

see, he doesn't need a wipe.

or does he.....

princess a little more clean.

can never have enough pictures like these.....

poster board collage

2010-05-13T16:53:00.000-07:00

sorry, the pictures are horrible.
this idea is not an original of my own.
i copied my friend amber.
each little poster is a 5x7 picture.
that equals 36 5x7s total.
LARGE!
it isn't a large picture i cut up.
i used photoshop to crop each part of picture as a 5x7.
ordered them when winkflash was doing there .10 deal.
used mod podge to put pictures on.
didn't mod podge the tops.
had HUGE struggles getting them to stay on wall.
tried sticky poster foam for hanging posters.
then extra strength foam sticky's for hanging pictures.
solution:
large scrapbooking glue dots.
doesn't take paint off...and SUPER sticky!

{heart} it!...and the kiddies too!

motherhood is not what i expected....

2010-05-09T08:21:00.000-07:00

....but i wouldn't change it for anything!

i want....

2010-05-07T11:12:00.001-07:00

....this for mother's day breakfast!

not junk mail

2010-04-29T13:08:00.000-07:00

in the mood to shop.
most of the time that is a bad thing.
not today.
why?
in the mail received $10 for Kohl's, $5 for Wal-Mart, and something free at Victoria Secret.

how'd i do?
Kohl's - 2 pair of flip flops and a necklace...out of pocket....$2.65.
Wal-Mart - items for a french tip pedicure and some dazzling summer pink polish ...out of pocket.... $2.95.

(my toes will look so cute in my new flip flops)

Victoria Secret - not telling what i got....out of pocket....$0.

what a great day. thanks for trying to entice me to spend a bunch of money in your store.

hey good lookin'...

2010-04-21T08:40:00.000-07:00

...whatcha got cookin'?

wanting freezer meal ideas so i can have an array of dinners for after baby comes.

lasagna. check.

manicotti. check.

help...or my family will turn into a noodle..........

just grab it

2010-04-15T07:32:00.001-07:00

(love the kool-aid mustache)

sometimes moments come up where you tell yourself..."i should really go get the camera."

do it!

what could happen?
you capture a moment that will make you smile every time you see it.

i promise. you won't. ever. regret. it.

go get your camera...........

sleeping beauty

2010-04-12T11:09:00.000-07:00

sweet innocence. i love sleeping kids.

bobby pin

2010-04-08T19:36:00.000-07:00

princess: mom, look what i found for you behind the couch (shows me a bobby pin).

mom: (sarcastically) wow, thanks princess, i have been looking for that.

princess: you're welcome. i am a FINDER HUNTER!

never gets old...

2010-04-05T10:38:00.000-07:00

i could take pictures of them every time they fall asleep.

sweet. innocent. peaceful. tender. priceless.

cleanest cars in town

2010-03-31T17:15:00.000-07:00

need an hour.
put a towel on the floor.
give kids a squirt bottle and cotton balls.
car wash = hours of entertainment...aka...sanity for mom!

Monster Jam

2010-03-28T16:16:00.000-07:00

mentioned this before:

buddy is obsessed with monster trucks. for his birthday, "the boys"...aka...he and his dad, got to go. i was hesitant and didn't think it was a great idea because of the loudness. hubby insisted.

turns out.

he LOVED it!
and we are currently adding to the collection...or fueling his obsession.

i didn't want to go. but i didn't want to miss seeing his face.

solution: shoved a camera in hubby's pocket and threatened him....excuse me...i asked him rather...to take pictures (and he knew he better not come home without some)!

grave digger...of course...one of the favorites and definitely already one in his collection.

love my boys!

i have been waiting for him to like/love something besides sports.

three candles

2010-03-24T11:38:00.000-07:00

Our little buddy is growing up.

trying to sport the new age.

of course princess is in on every bit of the action.

he was so excited for his birthday. i don't think he realized he would get presents. he was mainly ecstatic about his birthday cake.

he is
O.B.S.E.S.S.E.D.
with monster jam.
he chose blue thunder to go on his cake.

his main birthday day present was a ticket for he and his dad to go to monster jam in boise. pictures to follow...........

sunday: day of rest

2010-03-22T11:09:00.000-07:00

last sunday, i was having a special meeting in my room. only mom allowed. involved a bed, pillow, blanket....and about 2 hours.

i guess i wasn't the only one who wanted to take a nap that day.

hubby picked up my point and shoot camera.
impressed with all the different angles he got.

why are these so sweet and tender?
think about it.
siblings. same blanket. same pillow. same air mattress.
not at our house......

love those two kids!

gotta love.....

2010-03-19T14:22:00.001-07:00

...lowe's build and grow.

free kid clinic....this one....tabletop basketball.

artist

2010-03-15T12:55:00.000-07:00

shared in previous post what buddy does most days.

princesses turn.

she loves to draw, color, paint, or write. she loves making her own coloring books out of computer paper. her favorite lately is coloring rainbows or writing letters. if we go to a store, she doesn't beg for toys...she begs for a new notebook and markers or pens...."because she has a lot of work to do"...in her exact words.

her treasure map!

No. 23

2010-03-10T14:41:00.001-08:00

if you were to come to our home on any given day at any given moment, you would find buddy in either his pajamas or "his team"....which he refers to as his uniform. most little boys play with cars, trains, or dinosaurs. they make sounds such as, vroom, choo choo, or roar!

not our buddy.

you will find him in our bedroom (which is the largest room in the house) playing his own basketball game. or soccer. or baseball.

yup, in my room!

lately, basketball has been the favorite.

and he loves his "number two three team".

i often hear, "mommy, will you come watch my game."

as his number one fan...of course!

first, his warm up and stretches......

next, a few poses and show offs.......

then, the game.......

he knows he's got game.......

and finally, because he is only three years old....

....his normal, goofy self!

love that boy and i will always be his #1 fan.

Indulge

2010-03-03T16:10:00.000-08:00

i was craving cookie dough yesterday and had a rough conversation with my self.

self: "don't make the cookie dough. you will just eat it."

self 2: "duh."

self: "don't do it"

self 2: "come on. you know you want to. you deserve it."

self: "yeah, you deserve an extra tire on your hips."

self 2: "chocolate chips.......oatmeal......peanut butter......."

self: "okay. okay. shut up."

who one. the weaker one!

if you need to satisfy a craving of oatmeal, chocolate chips, and peanut butter. indulge in these:

NOTE: no picture. that would give away how many i have eaten already!

pan cookie bars:

1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
1 egg
1/3 cup peanut butter
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup flour
1 cup oats
1 cup chocolate chips

Icing:
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp. peanut butter
2 tbsp. milk

preheat oven to 350 degrees. cream butter and sugars. add egg and peanut butter and mix well. stir in soda, salt, flour and oatmeal. press into 9x13 pan. sprinkle chocolate chips over top. bake 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. remove from oven and drizzle with icing.
cool completely. cut into square and enjoy!

check off list: bird plate

2010-02-26T11:59:00.001-08:00

really don't know why it took me so long to get this project done.

i have had the vinyl for months. had the plate stand for years. just needed a plate.

found this red one...at the d.i.....for $0.50.

i love cute, cheap, and easy (only took 5 min. to complete) projects.

check off list: glass jars

2010-02-24T13:09:00.001-08:00

i seen this idea on drab to fab.

i had to make one.

i bought this glass jar at the d.i. a few months ago for $1.50.

i found this glass sundae cup at the d.i. also.....$0.50.

turned it upside down

bought this adhesive in the automotive department at wal-mart.
(about $4........dries clear).

and wha-lah. a cute jar for about $2.

i can't wait to make more. i think i may make some for my bathroom and put q-tips, cotton balls, soap, etc.
ca-ute! and cheaper than buying them at a craft store!

check off list: it's coming i promise

2010-02-22T17:20:00.000-08:00

so, yes, i have still been working on my check off list.

why haven't i posted anything for a while?

i am working on it. this is the biggest project i have done yet. it involves a secret door, sky blue and avocado paint, trim, carpet, and decor.

curious..........

....stay tuned. i promise you will be the first to know when it is complete.

Family Weekend Getaway: McCall

2010-02-15T13:50:00.001-08:00

We rented this cabin for the weekend.

(picture taken from website...obviously...snow is up to the windows right now)

my kids' favorite part about this cabin: the hot tub!
no pictures though.
i didn't even want my camera accessible while i was in a swimsuit!

my kids were so excited when we woke up because the "snow is still there".
in boise, the snow usual melts after a few hours. so they were excited that we actually were going to be able to go sledding.

he had trouble with his hat all day.

buddy was completely fine being carried up the hill this way...

same with princess

he wasn't such a fan after the first run. he was quite content watching.

princess really wanted to go down by herself. begged to. okay. we know what is going to happen. sure enough. a pink marshmellow fish floppin' around till she hit the bottom of the hill. (the hill quite bumpy). needless to say, she wasn't a fan and chose to not go by herself again.

buddy got tired of watching and then discovered that going down backgrounds on his hands and knees was quite fun....only if there was someone at the bottom to carry/drag him back up.

buddy and i slid down a few times on our bums...
and i have a bruise to prove it.

princess wasn't ready to leave. she wanted to get every last minute of sleigh riding in, so we drug her to the car too.

have multiple pictures of buddy on dad's shoulders...never gets old!

we were also able to go and see some of the ice/snow sculpture...or what was left of them.

we walked ourselves down on the lake to see the monster for a valentine kiss!

buddy's favorite part:
we walked upon a hockey game. he was in heaven. that night during his prayers, he said he was thankful for hockey. too cute!

if you ever go to McCall, you HAVE to stop at the pancake house for a cinnamon roll. they are huge. hardly fit on a dinner plate. i cannot describe it in words. when i get to heaven, i want one of them. fresh. hot. right out of the oven.

while indulging in our cinnamon roll. buddy gave out on us.
he lied down on the floor and crashed. hard.
tired boy.

it was a much needed mini family vacation. we had a blast and can't wait to go again.

Happy Heart Day!

2010-02-12T08:08:00.001-08:00

the kids' valentines they gave this year:

check off list: hootie hider

2010-02-10T12:49:00.001-08:00

slowly getting into the baby mode.
or i just realized i better get my crap together because i am getting closer
(i am one that likes to be prepared...kind of may be OCD about it)

girl one:

boy one:

this whole not wanting to find out thing is getting slightly more expensive than i thought...having to by one of each just in case.......

NOTE: for the hootie hider, just bought 1 yard of fabric, trimmed off 2.5 inches, made straps from those, then sewed around. i also made these ones double sided...just so i wouldn't get as sick of it.

Boise Temple Picture

2010-02-09T13:33:00.001-08:00

Visit here for a Boise temple picture with personalization and custom built frame.

check off list: bookshelf redo

2010-02-08T07:39:00.001-08:00

i really think this bookshelf is cute. but, if you want to know a little secret...it is actually a secret door that leads to a different room....which i may reveal in the future (on my check off list). i hated/despised the way i had it decorated. fed up with it. so, tried again. more satisfied this time. still not quite right, but much better than before.

sorry, no before pictures. we aren't that good of friends. sorry, we just aren't.

i found this cute little blue bird at dollar tree. he makes a fine addition to the shelf and was welcomed warmly.

i found this topiary tree thingy in the clearance section at craft warehouse....only .80 cents. supposed to be for christmas, but it might be a year round one for me.

i also had this treasure box. before it was closed and just sitting there...bored. it wanted friends. so, i opened him. i think he looks much happier now. don't you?

check off list: super hero capes

2010-02-05T15:52:00.001-08:00

my kids have been in the super hero play mode the last few days. so, while i was at hobby lobby i picked them up a handkerchief, sewed some ribbon on two of the corners.

and now, they can really fly to the moon!

total cost: $1 per cape

Check off list: hallway collage

2010-02-04T11:02:00.000-08:00

still not pleased with it. everytime i walk by i change a frame or picture. the darn light switch is totally throwing my groove off.

total cost for project: approx. $25.

i bought cheap ugly frames from the dollar store. took a can of black spray paint to them and wha-lah!

i really wanted to hang my circle frame/plates with knobs. just got back from hobby lobby. made a mistake. should of gone their first. much cuter!

Check off list: burlap heart wreath

2010-02-03T13:55:00.000-08:00

i have tons of projects that are in the works at my house. i have tons of projects in the "idea folder" part of my brain. i also have tons of projects that are in the "never gonna happen" stage...but would be totally fun!

so, i decided i needed to have a little talk with myself.

"self, you really need to finish the projects you have already started or projects that you have already purchased to do."

quick conversation.

so, i made a list and hoping to check most of them off in the next few weeks.

heart burlap wreath: check! total cost: $1.50

idea found at Skip to My Lou

because i know you wanna know...

2010-02-01T16:31:00.001-08:00

....my toe/foot is STILL throbbing!

i even had to wear my fancy purple crocs to run errands today because i couldn't endure the pain of putting different shoes on.

i know you are trying to picture it. me. walking around joann's with my purple crocs. classy!

i am going to confess....

2010-01-31T19:07:00.000-08:00

...i accidentally swore twice today!

i know. i can't believe i did it either. and even on sunday.

story: i was making dinner and needed something from the top of the pantry. as i was pulling it off....keep in mind i am short and on my tippy toes...about ready to give myself a charlie horse in my foot...a glass bottle...which was full...decided to come with the item i was getting. so, brace yourselves, here comes the first one.....i said "sh*t"...because i thought it was going to fall and break and that i would then be cleaning up a horrible mess.

well, guess what. it didn't break. no, rather it decided to land on my foot. so, here comes the second "sh*t. but, i put on my big girl pants and only cried a little.

now, my big toe...is really my BIG toe!!!!

lesson to learn (since it is sunday and all): grab a stool next time!

unlucky, lucky, luck

2010-01-22T11:22:00.000-08:00

i found this new blog: Knock Off Wood. i love it!

unlucky because i don't have time, money or tools to do some of the projects she demonstrates.

lucky because i get to dream about what my house could look like someday with the furniture i COULD build.

luck: maybe my hubby will look at it and get some desire and inspiration to buy some tools for him....i mean me...sshh...don't tell! (most of the stuff she has on her blog you can do without a husband)

not a smart woman....

2010-01-18T13:19:00.001-08:00

Winkflash is having another one of their awesome flat rate book sales. so, being the SMART woman that i am decided i need to get my pages done so i can order one. i do one book per year, and only had 44 completed pages for the year 2009 (need/want 100). ummm...okay that ONLY makes 56 pages to do in less than two weeks.

call me stupid right now. go ahead. really. i won't mind.

my wrists hate me right now too. carpal tunnel here i come!

those are a few of my completed favorites. i just checked and i only have 30 more pages to go.

i think i can...i think i can...i think i can...you are a stupid woman...i think i can...i think i can....i think i can...i hope i can....

jaxon plays this.....

2010-01-13T16:17:00.000-08:00

24/7

he asks me all day,

"play bowlin' with me?",

or "set 'em up for me?"

what you don't see in the pictures is that the ball makes an annoying cow noise when rolled!

SCREAM!!!!

good thing the batteries finally died!

cleaning, a bit at a time

2010-01-11T15:14:00.000-08:00

i am finally winding down for the holiday rush and chaos and slowly starting to feel bored and unproductive.

what to do?

projects.....yes, projects....too many to decide from....the ones i really want to do, still need to earn the moolah for (budget recovering from the "christmas crash"). rats!

now what?

exercise. yes, exercise. that makes me feel better....but can't do that ALL day!

cleaning? yes, cleaning...i told you i was bored. i consider myself a clean person and i consider my house to be in order most of the time. it isn't that we don't make messes, i am just paranoid about cleaning. but, i noticed the other day that my house needs deep cleaning. overwhelming! yes....overwhelming! not anymore. i decided that i would do one thing everyday...well of course i still have to do the usual chores...i am talking only one thing to deep clean. so, here it goes. join me if you would like:

monday: closets (kids' old clothes and toys...D.I.)
wow, i now have tons of hangers!

tuesday: sweep and mop all bathroom floors

wednesday: scour all bathrooms

thursday: wipe down all doors
(you'll be surprised how dirty they are if you look close)

friday: wipe down all outlets and switches

saturday: wipe down all baseboards

sunday: enjoy the sweet lemony scent of your cleaner home!

next monday: clean all inside windows and window sills.

...ummm, that is as far as i have decided yet. no, that is not all that needs to be done. just don't want to overwhelm the cleaning part of my brain. it can get overloaded and have a tendency to crash....then, nothing gets done!! been there, done that...don't like it!

Favorites of 2009

2010-01-06T19:43:00.000-08:00

and i here i was thinking i was lousy at getting shots of my own kids.

probably my most favorite...our walking garbage can!

"Twas the week after Christmas

2010-01-06T09:16:00.000-08:00

My friend sent this to me in an email. Thought it was too cute and TRUE not to share!

Twas the Week After Christmas
(Author Unknown)

'Twas the week after Christmas, and all through the house

Nothing would fit me, not even a blouse.

The cookies I'd nibble, the eggnog I'd taste

All the holiday parties had gone to my waist.

When I got on the scales, there arose such a number!

When I walked to the store (less a walk than a lumber).

I'd remember the marvelous meals I'd prepared;

The gravies and sauces and beef nicely rared...

The sweets and the fudge, the bread and the cheese

And the way I'd never said, "No thank you, please."

As I dressed myself in my husband's old shirt

And prepared once again to battle the dirt...

I said to myself, as I only can "You can't spend a winter dressed like a man!"

So...away with the last of the sour cream dip,

Get rid of the cookies, every cracker and chip.

Every last bit of food that I like must be banished

'Till all the additional ounces have vanished.

I won't have a cookie, not even a lick,

I'll want only to chew on a long celery stick.

I won't have hot biscuits, or cornbread, or pie,

I'll munch on a carrot and quietly cry.

I'm hungry, I'm lonesome, and life is a bore...

But isn't that what January is for?

Unable to giggle, no longer a riot

Happy New Years to All and to All a Good Diet

i feel the same way

2010-01-05T08:36:00.001-08:00

...exhausted!

NOTE: the funny thing about this picture is that con has music blaring while doing an at home workout!

Santa is exhausted!

2010-01-03T16:55:00.001-08:00

This Christmas was going to be perfect!
And I was greatly anticipating it!

Christmas Eve:
We spent with my family. My favorite part about this is the gourmet dinner my dad always cooks...this year...steak and lobster tail. yummy!

My next favorite part and most fondest childhood memory is Santa Claus coming that night. I grew up in an extremely small town and Santa goes around to each home in town and gives everyone a small bag with peanuts, candy and an orange. This is the last chance for each child to make sure Santa has was they want packed in his sled. He then proceeds to tell them they better hurry to bed because the sleigh is packed and the reindeer are ready. It capitalizes the excitement of his arrival the next morning!

So proud of her! She is terrified of the man in the red suit!

My dad (grandpa) made each grandchild a heirloom this year.

Aren't they gorgeous!? There are shelves and bins inside to hold toys, etc.

Sporting their new Christmas Eve jammies!

After Santa and presents with my family, we hopped in our car and drove 5 hours home in hopes to make it their BEFORE Santa. We succeeded!

I think I better ask Santa about his "nice" list because I didn't think my kids were THAT good!

Princess woke up throwing up.
Bummer deal on Christmas for the whole family.

Jaxon was so much fun and loved christmas and everything about it!

One of his top favorite presents! We watch it at least once a day!

Hope your Christmas was just as wonderful and memorable!

from us to you....

2009-12-18T19:20:00.001-08:00

Christmas at our house....

2009-12-17T11:37:00.000-08:00

take a peek at what our home might look/feel like during the holidays....

vinyl on tile.

think next year i might mod podge scrapbook paper on these letters. looks slightly plain!
why next year?...my to do list right now can't even fit in a notebook!

this is the cutest stocking holder ever.
my fabulous MIL made it for me for christmas last year.

supposed to have fake snow all over it.
might repaint the sign and put vinyl on it so it stands out slightly better!

yes, there are 4 members of our family and only 3 stockings.
can't...for the life of me...find the other one(s).
mom and dad just might have to share this year.

our little christmas tree.
it looked so much bigger in our apartment.

found a 100 pack of assorted ornaments at target last year after christmas.
it was 90% off...$1.99. love it!

i did let the kids each hang one ornament.

buddy's favorite!

princess's favorite!

these presents have been under our tree since we put it up thanksgiving weekend.
it has been driving princess crazy not being able to open them.
christmas eve jammies and slippers...but...sshhh, don't tell! it will ruin the surprise!

my dollar store centerpiece.
had the jar. left over ornaments from the target deal mentioned above. greenery, berries and garland from dollar store. total spent....$3 plus tax!

my absolute most very favorite candle for this time of year!!!!

that time of year

2009-12-16T13:37:00.000-08:00

we had a fun little get together with some close friends for christmas. it was too much fun.

there was tons of food, drinks, fun, laughter...and of course...dessert!

we did a chocolate fountain dessert bar. i was so nervous about getting this fountain going because the last time the fountain and i met...we butted heads and swore off our friendship for good. but, this time...with a little forgiveness..we managed to succeed.

mmm....yummy...my favorite dipped in the chocolate....coconut macaroons...tastes just like an almond joy...which happens to be one of my favorite candy bars.

my hubby was in charge of the drinks. this is what he came up with. good boy!

our friend, nichole, brought this cute little snowman cheese ball.
not only ca-ute...but one of the best tasting cheese balls i have ever had!

Christmas Soap

2009-12-14T11:02:00.000-08:00

i seen this idea a LONG time ago. i bought green apple hand soap. peeled off the label (make sure you buy the soap that has a peel off label and not print on the bottle). i had scrapbook rub ons....rubbed it on (stickers would probably work too). tied a bit of christmas ribbon. and whalah!...christmas hand soap in our kitchen. so festive. and a great gift idea too.

i think i want to make a snowflake one that i can use after christmas during the snowy, wintery january!

struggling with #2

2009-12-07T20:58:00.000-08:00

literally. the #2 child is struggling with #2.

we have been potty training the last 5 days now. going great. in undies...even through the night...wahoo! no accidents...except #2. he seems afraid. he does super fine with #1. but, you can take them to the potty every few hours and prevent an accident that way. but, you can't force them to go #2 until it has happened.

child #1 was a piece of cake to potty train and she was a few months younger than child #2 currently is. heard many say boys harder than girls. he was ready though.

any suggestions for helping with the whole #2 thing? doing a potty sticker chart. sister gets more excited about it and makes sure the stickers get on there. buddy could care less. bribes...tried a few.

granted: we are only in this a few days...so i haven't reached my desperation point. just don't want to be 2 weeks...or 2 months down the road with the same problem.

any suggestions or thoughts or tricks would be greatly appreciated.

how dare it sneak up on me

2009-11-30T16:00:00.000-08:00

i am talking about christmas. i am usually one of those people who has christmas done by halloween. but, i have been glued to a porcelain toilet, soda crackers and sprite...on crushed ice...of course....love our ice maker! i was looking over my calendar and upcoming photo sessions and realized i only have 2, i repeat 2 weekends until it needs to be done.

oh crap!

hope toys-r-us...uhmmm...i mean santa's workshop...is still stocked with toy story and tinkerbell toys or else i...i mean...he (aka santa) is in big trouble.

dreaming of christmas

2009-11-17T07:03:00.001-08:00

princess: "mom, what are you dreaming of for christmas?"

mom: " what do you mean?"

princess: "i dream about what i am getting for presents. what are you dreaming of?"

mom (thinking to herself): santa better not mess up or else it could shatter the dreams of a sweet and innocent 4 year old princess.

porcelain worship

2009-11-09T07:58:00.001-08:00

i have been doing a lot of it!

remember a few weeks back i said i was going to reveal something i have been working on? well, all of my time, energy and motivation (or lack there of) have gone into this special package that will arrive in late may.

yup, you guessed it. we are expecting #3 and couldn't be more excited about it. i am sure you have noticed my lack of posting lately. my number one item on my to do list every day is: 1 - get out of bed. anything else that might get done throughout the day.....is a good day in the anderson home.

Witchcraft & Wizardry

2009-10-22T14:56:00.000-07:00

i always get overwhelmed each holiday season on decorating my house. i came up with a personal plan that each holiday i can buy one decoration and make one. that way, over a few years, i will have a bunch of decor...some i am sure will go outdated though.

as halloween is drawing closer, i realized that i hadn't made a decoration yet. i seen this on a different blog and thought it was too cute. i bought an old book at a thrift store (.99 cents), mod podged paper on it, printed off the label, wrapped with some funky yarn, and that's it. easy and cheap...my kind of craft.

i think it needs a friend. so i guess i need to make another one.

and, as i am writing this, i came up with another idea. buy a really big book and do the same thing for christmas only put "naughty or nice" on the front. yes, i am so doing that too. great on a shelf.

Whoops!

2009-10-21T11:51:00.000-07:00

I accidentally posted my photography on my personal site (post below)!

Whoops!

Grover {Boise Family Photographer}

2009-10-21T10:11:00.000-07:00

i love this family. my husband loves this family. we love this family. dad is hilarious. mom is sweet and funny. and daughter is adorable. and wait until you see her eyes!

warned you.

thank you, grover family, for letting me capture a few moments of your sweet family.

Saturday Afternoon Nap

2009-10-20T09:27:00.001-07:00

yes. saturday afternoon nap. not sunday.

i feel left out.

Linder Farms preschool field trip

2009-10-13T10:18:00.000-07:00

Maycie is attending a co-op preschool ran by myself and a few friends. So, we get the pleasure of attending all the field trips planned throughout the year.

This months field trip: Linder Farms

I don't know why I always get pictures like this because they rarely act like this!

We first went on a hay ride into the pumpkin patches.

Maycie then wanted to ride the swings.

Jaxon was a chicken so he became the spectator.

However, I did get him to ride this little barrell train ride.

The preschool clan

Then they adventured the kiddie straw maze.

Bouncy, bounce. Maycie's favorite part. Love the hair girlfriend.

The "I want donuts" face.

They have a fresh-fried donut stand. Sinfully delicious. No pictures of our donut endulgence because they didn't last long enough to snap a picture.

We {heart} preschool.

Still here

2009-10-09T09:29:00.000-07:00

Hello fellow bloggers. I am still here.

Been busy doing this.

And something else I have been working on. Hope to reveal it soon!

cover my heart

2009-09-25T14:00:00.001-07:00

maycie noticed the other day that i had a shirt under my shirt....aka undershirt or downeast basics tee.

maycie: "mom, do you not want people to see your heart?"

me: "what do you mean?"

maycie: "that shirt under your shirt*. do you not want people to see your heart?"

mom (after finally getting it): "umm...you are right...i don't want people to see my heart."

what a wicked world out there today. i wish she could stay this innocent forever.

*which would have been immodest had i not had an undershirt.

Princess & Buddy

2009-09-22T14:17:00.000-07:00

you would think that with taking pictures being a passion of mine, that i would have a ton of amazingly cute shots of my kids.

wrong.

i did get these ones though:

i do not like girls.

i really don't like them.

okay. maybe i like them a little.

handsome boy.

my most very favorite.

doesn't it make him look so innocent and cute?...instead of the monstrous two year old terror that he often is.

princess. she loves posing.

my camera. these steps. this lighting. those smiles.

we had fun.

favorite comment

2009-09-16T08:21:00.000-07:00

from my last post: (about labeling my red box drawers)

Cousin Ginger:

"Personally, I'd label them Dr. Pepper pennies, mad money, Mom money and craft money or some version thereof. That way, you can drop in all the change that goes through the laundry and then spend it all on yourself (for doing such a great job at decorating the room!)"

Yup, I totally agree...especially whatever change comes out of hubby's!...he better keep it in his wallet! I would change the Dr. Pepper (not a drinker) pennies to pretty pennies...to go get my nails done or something. I am liking this more and more as I write this post...which I thought at first was just for kicks and giggles.............................................

Home Tour: laundry room

2009-09-14T15:21:00.001-07:00

the laundry WAS one of my least favorite rooms in the house

not anymore...go ahead...take a peek...

I love how it turned out!

And guess what, it is the first room I walk through when coming through the back door from the garage. FUN!

REMEMBER: to leave a comment and give me your suggestions on what labels to put on my red box drawers.

A little catching up to do....

2009-09-11T07:00:00.001-07:00

"scraplifted" this one from my friend amber!

Our EXPENSIVE night out!

2009-09-02T13:14:00.000-07:00

We had no plans last night...and we're up for doing something fun.

Took the kids to McDonald's. In the Boise area on Tuesday nights from 5-7 pm Happy Meals are 50% off. Kids each got a kids meal and hubby and I each choked down a Mighty Kids Meal.

Total = $7.17

Then, we noticed that Disney's UP was playing at the cheap theater (Overland Park Cinemas). And also on Tuesday nights, all shows and tickets are $1...or for $3 you can get the "Food ticket"...which is admission PLUS two small food items or 1 large food item. Children 2 and under are free...so we didn't have to pay for buddy.

We got admission, 1 drink, 1 popcorn, Butterfinger (Princess's pick), and M&Ms for buddy.

Total = $7.

We spent a whopping $14.17. Not bad for a family of four!

As promised!

2009-09-01T08:00:00.001-07:00

Remember this from the last post....$2 from the D.I.

Painted edges.
Measured, cut, and mod podged scrapbook paper onto tray and got this.....

I think when I have you over to use my new dessert dishes, I will serve them on my new tray!

And who could forget this beauty!?....$3.

Currently looking for a different bird for inside. Also not in LOVE with the color or the location of it (on fireplace). May go soft teal and then move to my end table.

Look what I found....

2009-08-31T13:51:00.000-07:00

....at the D.I. last week!

Little dessert glasses....to go in my glass cabinet...50 cents a piece! I had seen a version of these at a department store and they wanted...well...let's just say more than I wanted to spend. I don't know what kind of dessert I will put in there, or when I would use them. I will figure something out. Hey, I know. Maybe I will invite YOU over and we can try them out together!

Princess a witch dress for Halloween....$1

Buddy a Spiderman costume for Halloween...$1

A cute bird cage ($3)...well, not cute as is...I have a can of spray paint that is waiting to greet it!

A basket for buddy's room....$1.50

A serving tray ($2) that is crying for a makeover!

And new plastic placemats for the kiddies for October...$0.25 a piece.

Total: $12.72

I know, I couldn't believe it either.

Stay tuned: bird cage and serving tray makeovers to follow!

Home Tour: Kitchen

2009-08-26T09:32:00.001-07:00

I went from small cabinets, no pantry, and no counter space to this.....

Yup, I am definitely in heaven. And guess what...I actually LOVE cooking. Shocked? I know, me too!

Welcome back toaster oven!
(when we moved into our last place...no counter space for him).
Missed you!

Notice the peaches on the counter. Freshly picked from a friends tree. Sniff....sigh...my kitchen smells like peaches! Yum!

Didn't think I would like the glass cabinet because I didn't have anything nice to put in it. I just kept unpacking and realized I DID have stuff...just never had them out at old place...small cabinets, remember!

New kitchen table (has leaf and more chairs)

We have a LOVE/HATE relationship! Love it and the color...but, can't keep the bugger clean...or can't keep the kiddos' fingers clean...hhmmm...either way...table gets dirty...a LOT!

Hallway to front door...which I LOVE...the door...not the hallway with the NASTY...excuse me while I gag...okay, that is better...the nasty rock wall!

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the center island. It has drawers and cupboards all the way around it. Want to know a secret.....! Sshh...whispering...some of them are empty! I know, I can't believe it either!

You may recognize most of my decor:

And new to the kitchen:

Had no where to put or hang...bought heavy duty magnets and wha-lah!

Got my little artichoke friend at Fred Meyer's for $3 on clearance. Husband thinks I'm crazy...may be why I love it so much!

In the hallway! Got frame on clearance for $5 because it is cracked on bottom. Worth it!...adds character!

And finally, what you can find in our kitchen right now:

Gotta love the B1G1 free coupons.
Makes the best toast!

Home Tour: Bedroom

2009-08-24T14:42:00.000-07:00

First stop on our exclusive home tour: the master bedroom!

Reasons I LOVE my bedroom:

1. The windows, 7 to be exact.
It is definitely the lightest room in the house and I love it...except on the mornings I would like to sleep in.

2. My new bedroom set!
(Thanks to my husband's grandparents who own a furniture store...can't beat cost + shipping!)

3. His & Hers walk-in closests.
My husband now picks up his OWN clothes in his OWN closet!

4. Size! HUGE!
It takes up half of the upstairs. Not sure on exact measurements...let's just say we played baseball up there for FHE. Sort of wasted space...but we are loving it!

5. Dimmer.
While my dad (electrician) was here, he put in a dimmer for us. Romantic! I definitely look better in an ALMOST dark setting.

This is the bedding we had on our last bed (log bed husband built). I can't decide what colors I want to do. I was thinking white and black with a red accent...hubby says he won't sleep in anything "girly". We will see who wins!

I have EMPTY drawers...well for now!

This is the only thing we have hung on the walls of our bedroom. I am quite liking BARE for a change. I am sure very shortly it will bug me...but for now, I am enjoying it. Remember: I despise clutter!

Stay tuned! More rooms to follow......