Well, it's the last day of 2012. What a year. What a completely crazy and hard year. I am very happy to see the calendar turn to 2013....but even though it was a very difficult year for us, there were some very good days. Those days usually revolved around our three sweet children. I'm so glad I have them. I am so glad they were the bright spot. I am also very glad to start a new year with the 3 sweetest children on the planet. I can't wait :)
Here are some of the highlights of 2012...
*My oldest son turned 10, my baby boy turned 5 and my baby girl turned 1...wow, can you say time flies? I was in shock that my little tiny babies had those huge milestones in 2012. In many ways, their little lives have been a blur...you know, time just goes so fast, life spins by...it never stops. I pray for many, many more birthdays to share with my most precious gifts on earth.
*I went on a completely wonderful and perfect 13th anniversary concert date with Will...We saw Andy Grammar, Gavin Degraw and Colbie Callait. We were on the very front row. It was perfect. We ate at Chili's and took tons of pictures and just had a wonderful time...quite possibly the best date ever. I am on a mission to recreate that night again someday :)
*We had a wonderful beach trip to Oak Island in June...perfect weather, lots of sun, lots of smiles. I was in heaven. We ate wonderful food and I had the best crabcakes ever on a bun. The boys loved the sand and waves and Mollie got her first "Mermee" doll. Those memories have gotten me through a lot this year. I will never forget those perfect days.
*Will changed jobs this year...not exactly the high point of 2012...it was a hard, sad road but we made it through. It was the probably the hardest thing, besides losing Nanni and Papaw that I have ever been through. It was lonely and excruciating. If you have ever been through a job loss, then you know what I mean. I couldn't sleep and could barely eat (but still put on 10 pounds). I cried until there were no tears. After 2 months of agony, Will ended up getting a new job and I know God has us right in the palm of his hand. I look forward to seeing what 2013 has in store for our family and what doors will open next :)
*We found a new church. Sometimes, you just know it's time. This was one of those times. It happened the last Sunday before Christmas...kind of like a Christmas present from God, sent directly to the James family. I am very thankful.
2012 was the hardest year of my life. I look forward to a new chapter and a new day. I know God isn't finished with us yet and there are wonderful days ahead. Tomorrow starts that journey...2013, I'm ready for you.
XXOO
Monday, December 31, 2012
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Thanksgiving
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving...wow, another year, another fall season almost over...it's been a crazy season for us but in the midst of it all, we have so much to be thankful for. I thought I would try to think of all the many things I am thankful for and write them in this blog...well, I know I can't think of every single thing, but I'll write the highlights...so here it goes :)
1. I am thankful I am a Christian. In all that we've been through, we had hope. Being a Christian gives you hope. It gives you hope that there is more to this life and that there is something bigger that we can't see. Being a Christian means to me that I am saved, taken care of, loved and alive. I am so thankful for that.
2. I am thankful that I married Will. I will never forget the day that sweet man asked me to marry him and the day we said "I do." I love him more today than yesterday. The fact that I get to go through this life with him, well, that is one of the best gifts I've ever been given. I am truly grateful that I said yes to that Olive Garden date 15 years ago.
3. I am thankful for my three precious children. I always wanted to be a mama....I mean, always. In my high school yearbook, I said that I wanted to "get married and have lots of children". That dream came true. I was made a mama 10 years ago and I am so, so thankful. Those 3 kids....they are my world. My only wish in life is that I live to see them grow up and have children of their own. I want to be there for every second of their little lives. They are the most precious gifts I have ever been given.
4. I am thankful for the time I had on this earth with my grandparents. I was given 30 years with my Nanni and 33 with my grandfather. I am so happy that they loved me and raised me. I am thankful that they said yes to starting over with a 6 month old baby back in 1976. I am thankful that they sacrificed for me. I had everything I needed and more. I am thankful they stepped in and became the parents that I needed so desperately. I miss them but I am thankful for the years we had...they are always with me in my heart, everyday.
5. I am thankful for my extended family... Will's family. Without my own family around, I have needed them more than ever. I am thankful that they are here so my children can have grandparents. I am thankful that we get to have Thanksgiving tomorrow together. I am thankful we aren't alone in this world. There is a bond with family that really can't be broken. I am thankful for that.
6. I am thankful for my home. It's 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and the closets are way too small but I love this house with all my heart. We got to pick this little house out. I will never, ever forget how excited I was to walk in this house the very first time when it was OURS. I sat in front of the fireplace and choked back tears. I am still thankful for this house. It's the nicest house I have ever lived in. It's so precious to me.
7. I am thankful for clothes and food...I have more than I need and eat way more than should everyday. I am so thankful my kids have never gone without. Consider the lilies...wow, the Lord really did mean that, didn't He?
8. I am thankful for my children's school. I am thankful they are well taken care of and have teachers that love them. We are right across the street and I feel super lucky to have such an opportunity for my children. They are thriving. There really are teachers out there that love children and love their jobs. I am thankful my children have teachers like that.
9. I am thankful for friends. Through everything we've been through lately, I have needed friends more than ever. I am thankful for friends who are kind, loving and pray. You know who you are...I will never, ever forget you. You are a Godsend.
10. I am thankful for a new day. This has been one tough year. I can't say that I have enjoyed every minute of it but I know that I have grown and that I have changed for the better. I am thankful that the Lord has given us a new day and that He's not finished with us yet. So, I guess all that goes back to number 1...hope. Without hope, what do we have anyway?
So, that's my little list for 2012. I know there are so many other things that I've forgotten...like, Reese cups and straightening irons, but I'll leave those silly things out this year. My top ten things this year are a little more dear to my heart :)
I hope all of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Eat too much, laugh a lot and hug everyone that you are thankful for.
XXOO
1. I am thankful I am a Christian. In all that we've been through, we had hope. Being a Christian gives you hope. It gives you hope that there is more to this life and that there is something bigger that we can't see. Being a Christian means to me that I am saved, taken care of, loved and alive. I am so thankful for that.
2. I am thankful that I married Will. I will never forget the day that sweet man asked me to marry him and the day we said "I do." I love him more today than yesterday. The fact that I get to go through this life with him, well, that is one of the best gifts I've ever been given. I am truly grateful that I said yes to that Olive Garden date 15 years ago.
3. I am thankful for my three precious children. I always wanted to be a mama....I mean, always. In my high school yearbook, I said that I wanted to "get married and have lots of children". That dream came true. I was made a mama 10 years ago and I am so, so thankful. Those 3 kids....they are my world. My only wish in life is that I live to see them grow up and have children of their own. I want to be there for every second of their little lives. They are the most precious gifts I have ever been given.
4. I am thankful for the time I had on this earth with my grandparents. I was given 30 years with my Nanni and 33 with my grandfather. I am so happy that they loved me and raised me. I am thankful that they said yes to starting over with a 6 month old baby back in 1976. I am thankful that they sacrificed for me. I had everything I needed and more. I am thankful they stepped in and became the parents that I needed so desperately. I miss them but I am thankful for the years we had...they are always with me in my heart, everyday.
5. I am thankful for my extended family... Will's family. Without my own family around, I have needed them more than ever. I am thankful that they are here so my children can have grandparents. I am thankful that we get to have Thanksgiving tomorrow together. I am thankful we aren't alone in this world. There is a bond with family that really can't be broken. I am thankful for that.
6. I am thankful for my home. It's 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and the closets are way too small but I love this house with all my heart. We got to pick this little house out. I will never, ever forget how excited I was to walk in this house the very first time when it was OURS. I sat in front of the fireplace and choked back tears. I am still thankful for this house. It's the nicest house I have ever lived in. It's so precious to me.
7. I am thankful for clothes and food...I have more than I need and eat way more than should everyday. I am so thankful my kids have never gone without. Consider the lilies...wow, the Lord really did mean that, didn't He?
8. I am thankful for my children's school. I am thankful they are well taken care of and have teachers that love them. We are right across the street and I feel super lucky to have such an opportunity for my children. They are thriving. There really are teachers out there that love children and love their jobs. I am thankful my children have teachers like that.
9. I am thankful for friends. Through everything we've been through lately, I have needed friends more than ever. I am thankful for friends who are kind, loving and pray. You know who you are...I will never, ever forget you. You are a Godsend.
10. I am thankful for a new day. This has been one tough year. I can't say that I have enjoyed every minute of it but I know that I have grown and that I have changed for the better. I am thankful that the Lord has given us a new day and that He's not finished with us yet. So, I guess all that goes back to number 1...hope. Without hope, what do we have anyway?
So, that's my little list for 2012. I know there are so many other things that I've forgotten...like, Reese cups and straightening irons, but I'll leave those silly things out this year. My top ten things this year are a little more dear to my heart :)
I hope all of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Eat too much, laugh a lot and hug everyone that you are thankful for.
XXOO
Friday, October 19, 2012
10 years...my first baby boy is a decade old...
Today is October 19, 2012...I haven't written in a long time...almost 2 months. It's been a very rough 2 months for us. This past August 31st, my husband lost his job. It's been tough but even in the hardest times, God is there and even when we don't understand, He does. So, I know that we will be ok and that one day we'll look back on this time and be thankful that we made it through. This is only a season in our lives...not our whole life...
But in the midst of hard times, there are still very, very happy times. Our children are the bright spots in our days. They are the reason we wake up and put one foot in front of the other...the reason we celebrate even when it seems a little hard to. And in the midst of this trial in our lives, my sweet, first born son is turning 10. This event has affected me more than when I turned 30 or 35. It is the craziest thing ever. I can't believe that a decade has gone by. People say it goes by in a blink and they are right. It may be even faster than that...
So, my oldest son, Will is turning 10 tomorrow...at 9:00am on the dot, to be exact. Will is my son and also my friend. He's the kindest, sweetest little guy. He is tender-hearted and that smile on his face...well, it's a real one and it shows way down into his heart. He's genuine...he is a gift. He helped me grow up and that little thing turned me into a mama :) I am so proud of him that I just about can't contain it. His sense of humor is just like his Daddy's and those freckles...well, they just keep getting better and better by the day :)
10 years ago, I was the dumbest soon-to-be mama on the planet...literally. I thought that when you had a baby, it would sting a little and then you would hold the baby and dress him up and show him off to your friends and take him to the mall. I envisioned myself walking around the mall in heels, pushing my son (who would be dressed in perfect baby blue outfits and hats) in a stroller, while he slept, of course and having the time of my life. Not one time, did anyone ever tell me that I might literally rip my insides out while giving birth and barely live to tell about it....or that he would have colic for over 6 months and that I would have to run a vaccum cleaner all day to make him stop crying. No one told me that my new favorite TV show would be Baby Einstein and that I would probably never walk around a mall again...especially not in heels :) I would have a new appreciation for late night TV, Dr. Brown bottles and pacifiers. I would grow to detest breast pumps and rear facing carseats...And nobody told me that I would absolutely fall in love with that baby and that I would die for him, easily. Nobody had to tell me those things (though it would have been nice to have a little heads-up on the childbirth part) but when I saw that little scrunched up face...well, he became my world. I just knew it. My dream had come true.
Will, the past 10 years have been precious and I pray that I have many, many more decades on this earth with you. You are a ray of sunlight in a world that needs it so much. You make me laugh everyday. I can't believe you are almost taller than me. I love you more than life.
Love, Mama
But in the midst of hard times, there are still very, very happy times. Our children are the bright spots in our days. They are the reason we wake up and put one foot in front of the other...the reason we celebrate even when it seems a little hard to. And in the midst of this trial in our lives, my sweet, first born son is turning 10. This event has affected me more than when I turned 30 or 35. It is the craziest thing ever. I can't believe that a decade has gone by. People say it goes by in a blink and they are right. It may be even faster than that...
So, my oldest son, Will is turning 10 tomorrow...at 9:00am on the dot, to be exact. Will is my son and also my friend. He's the kindest, sweetest little guy. He is tender-hearted and that smile on his face...well, it's a real one and it shows way down into his heart. He's genuine...he is a gift. He helped me grow up and that little thing turned me into a mama :) I am so proud of him that I just about can't contain it. His sense of humor is just like his Daddy's and those freckles...well, they just keep getting better and better by the day :)
10 years ago, I was the dumbest soon-to-be mama on the planet...literally. I thought that when you had a baby, it would sting a little and then you would hold the baby and dress him up and show him off to your friends and take him to the mall. I envisioned myself walking around the mall in heels, pushing my son (who would be dressed in perfect baby blue outfits and hats) in a stroller, while he slept, of course and having the time of my life. Not one time, did anyone ever tell me that I might literally rip my insides out while giving birth and barely live to tell about it....or that he would have colic for over 6 months and that I would have to run a vaccum cleaner all day to make him stop crying. No one told me that my new favorite TV show would be Baby Einstein and that I would probably never walk around a mall again...especially not in heels :) I would have a new appreciation for late night TV, Dr. Brown bottles and pacifiers. I would grow to detest breast pumps and rear facing carseats...And nobody told me that I would absolutely fall in love with that baby and that I would die for him, easily. Nobody had to tell me those things (though it would have been nice to have a little heads-up on the childbirth part) but when I saw that little scrunched up face...well, he became my world. I just knew it. My dream had come true.
Will, the past 10 years have been precious and I pray that I have many, many more decades on this earth with you. You are a ray of sunlight in a world that needs it so much. You make me laugh everyday. I can't believe you are almost taller than me. I love you more than life.
Love, Mama
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Summer's end and new beginnings...
Well, like a flash, summer came and went. It was a good summer but honestly, it seemed like a blur from start to finish. We had great times as a family and I wouldn't trade our little beach trip in June for anything. We went to our neighborhood pool...A LOT and went to Discovery Place, Chuck E. Cheese, Baxter's Bunch and lots of other places. But as fast as the summer came, it was over. I think we were all ready, though, to be honest. I think the boys were ready for new beginnings and new friends. I think Mollie was ready to get a decent nap and kiss the pool goodbye :) Overall, we had fun. We spent time together and made memories I'll cherish forever.
So, onto those new beginnings...my baby boy, yes, my 9 and a half year old baby boy started 4th grade this past week. I truly still can't believe it. I'm so happy for him and all he's accomplished these last few years, but I really, really can't believe my little buddy, my little chunky baby has turned into a 4th grader. He's very excited about his new class and new teachers and that makes it so much easier for me. But honestly, I just remember cuddling with him not so long ago and it kind of makes me sad....
So, onto those new beginnings...my baby boy, yes, my 9 and a half year old baby boy started 4th grade this past week. I truly still can't believe it. I'm so happy for him and all he's accomplished these last few years, but I really, really can't believe my little buddy, my little chunky baby has turned into a 4th grader. He's very excited about his new class and new teachers and that makes it so much easier for me. But honestly, I just remember cuddling with him not so long ago and it kind of makes me sad....
Next, my sweet "middle" baby (I hate referring to him as the middle child), Cole, started kindergarten. Now, this was pretty tough...Cole is my little angel. He was my gift from God when my Nanni passed away. He almost didn't make it to this earth but when he did, he was the most beautiful and unique baby I had ever seen. I will never forget his laidback nature as a baby and his ginormous eyes. That same child is now beboppin' into a great big elementary school, with a big orange backpack on his back. I cried the first day...I cried the first night. I missed him really bad but I know this is life...this is growing up...this is what he needs. He is making friends already and loves his new teacher's pet rabbit. All in all, a big accomplishment for my baby boy. I am proud :) 
Lastly, Mollie...oh Mollie, where do we start? Mollie is 19 months old and is our princess. Our perfect, beautiful princess :) Is she spoiled?? Um, probably...but just like her brothers :) She's still obsessed with mermaids, which are her favorite things in the whole world. She talks and babbles all the time and walks on her tip toes all day. She loves "Juicy" to drink and has to have her "Pa pa" (pacifier) all day. She sleeps with 2 mermaids and 3 blankets. She loves Hap Palmer baby songs and can count to 3. She's my joy and my best friend. I didn't know what I was missing before she came along...oh I'm so glad I was curious ;)
So, that's an update on our little ones...August is here and fall is so close, I can taste it. We are ready for more adventures and more memories, just around the corner :) Are you ready for some pumpkin pie?? I am...almost :)
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
July update :)
So, it's already July and the summer is already half over...yuck. I won't ever repeat that sentence again. I'm sorry you had to read that.
Ok, now onto a happier subject....today is July 11th and even though the first sentence I wrote is technically true...we still have over 5 weeks left of summer and that's a lot! I am hoping to really tackle that summer bucket list the next few weeks and enjoy every second I can :)
We just got back from a little beach time this past weekend. I could live at the beach, I do believe but this time I was ready to be home. I think I was a little beached out, if that is even possible. Mollie is super active and at the beach, it's no different. Plus, this past weekend, it was HOT and HUMID. I mean, really hot and humid. But we made memories and ate good food and saw God's beautiful ocean one more time. The boys played putt-putt and I ate another one of those glorious crabcakes at Beck's. We found a new little doughnut shop called Ahoy Doughnuts and I have to say the Key Lime Pie ones are the best :) I'm thankful for every chance I have to be with my little family doing something fun. I learned a long time ago that you have to live or you will end up watching the world pass you by. I think about that every single day. So, we lived this past weekend and it was great :)
So far, here are the things we have completed on our summer bucket list:
*Putt-Putt
*See the ocean
*Kids cooking day
*Kids craft day
*Chuck E. Cheese day
*get all 3 kids picture made together
*find a hunting place for the fall
*see a concert
*see fireworks on the 4th of July
We are still working on lots of things and I can't wait until we have done them all :)
Happy Summer!!
XXOO
Ok, now onto a happier subject....today is July 11th and even though the first sentence I wrote is technically true...we still have over 5 weeks left of summer and that's a lot! I am hoping to really tackle that summer bucket list the next few weeks and enjoy every second I can :)
We just got back from a little beach time this past weekend. I could live at the beach, I do believe but this time I was ready to be home. I think I was a little beached out, if that is even possible. Mollie is super active and at the beach, it's no different. Plus, this past weekend, it was HOT and HUMID. I mean, really hot and humid. But we made memories and ate good food and saw God's beautiful ocean one more time. The boys played putt-putt and I ate another one of those glorious crabcakes at Beck's. We found a new little doughnut shop called Ahoy Doughnuts and I have to say the Key Lime Pie ones are the best :) I'm thankful for every chance I have to be with my little family doing something fun. I learned a long time ago that you have to live or you will end up watching the world pass you by. I think about that every single day. So, we lived this past weekend and it was great :)
So far, here are the things we have completed on our summer bucket list:
*Putt-Putt
*See the ocean
*Kids cooking day
*Kids craft day
*Chuck E. Cheese day
*get all 3 kids picture made together
*find a hunting place for the fall
*see a concert
*see fireworks on the 4th of July
We are still working on lots of things and I can't wait until we have done them all :)
Happy Summer!!
XXOO
Monday, July 2, 2012
July Must-Have Beauty Product
Happy July! Today is Monday, July 2nd and I have to say, our July has started out pretty good ;) Today we ate lunch with Daddy, took a quick trip to Walmart (for 4th of July stuff) and went to our neighborhood pool...in almost 100 degree heat. Now, it's about 7:30 pm...I'm exhausted beyond my wildest dreams and The Fresh Beat band just went off on Nick Jr. so that's my clue to get Mollie ready for bed. I'm almost there!!
Now on to one of the greatest beauty products I've found in a LONG time...I love lots of things and I rave about lots of things, but this product really deserves all the praise it can get. So, run, don't walk to your nearest Walmart, Walgreens, CVS or Target and pick up this fabulous product...
Here it is...Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain :) Instant love in my opinion and here's why...
1. It smells minty.
2. It is a creamy pencil shape that you don't have to sharpen! It twists up...super cool.
3. It comes in tons of really pretty shades...my favorite is Precious (the one in the picture). It's one of the prettiest nude colors ever.
4. It lasts. The shine won't last all day, but the stain will last a while.
5. It makes your lips feel great :) Not dry, not like you just put a dry stain on them and now they are stiff, no way. This stuff is creamy and light and feels amazing.
Ok, now, go get you one. I mean it. I got mine last night. I've worn it all day and will tomorrow too :)
Happy July!!
XXOO
Now on to one of the greatest beauty products I've found in a LONG time...I love lots of things and I rave about lots of things, but this product really deserves all the praise it can get. So, run, don't walk to your nearest Walmart, Walgreens, CVS or Target and pick up this fabulous product...
1. It smells minty.
2. It is a creamy pencil shape that you don't have to sharpen! It twists up...super cool.
3. It comes in tons of really pretty shades...my favorite is Precious (the one in the picture). It's one of the prettiest nude colors ever.
4. It lasts. The shine won't last all day, but the stain will last a while.
5. It makes your lips feel great :) Not dry, not like you just put a dry stain on them and now they are stiff, no way. This stuff is creamy and light and feels amazing.
Ok, now, go get you one. I mean it. I got mine last night. I've worn it all day and will tomorrow too :)
Happy July!!
XXOO
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Friday eve mini-makeup haul :)
Happy Friday eve! This has been one long week for me...I don't know why, but it seems like I've been tired all week and a little stretched more than usual. We've been to the pool almost every day this summer and today, I think I got a little "pooled" out. So, tonight when Will came home from work and had dinner, we took a little trip to Target and grabbed some smoothies at McDonalds. For some reason, this helped perk me up (as trips to Target, usually do) and we all enjoyed being together and getting out of the house. So, here's what I got (only 2 makeup products) but I wanted to share because they both are REALLY good :)
1. Milani baked blush in Dolce Pink...this is a BEAUTIFUL blush and it is very similar to the Laura Gellar baked products that are much more expensive. This little number was $6.99 at Target and well worth it. This blush was reviewed by Emily Eddington http://www.beautybroadcast.com/ . I think this is going to be my favorite blush ever :)
2. Cover Girl Lash Blast Volume mascara in the NEW Olympics packaging...probably the best mascara ever...really...and for the 2012 Olympics, they have put it in neat little white packaging. I'm a sucker for packaging...but really this is an excellent mascara that is worth buying. The rubbery brush is unique and there is no smudging, clumping and great color. I got it in blackest black (not waterproof) and I'm sure I'll purchase again. It's that good :)
Ok, these 2 products were all I found tonight, but I'm sure I'll be back with a few more sometime soon...I have a small list in the back of my mind at all times! Let me know if you try these...and let me know what your favorites are!
Happy Friday eve!
XXOO
Ok, these 2 products were all I found tonight, but I'm sure I'll be back with a few more sometime soon...I have a small list in the back of my mind at all times! Let me know if you try these...and let me know what your favorites are!
Happy Friday eve!
XXOO
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Father's Day...a little late :)
Today is Wednesday, a few days after Father's day, which was this past Sunday. I thought I would write today about my husband, Will, who is literally the best daddy I have ever seen. Part of the reason I write this blog is for my children, so that one day, they'll be able to read these posts and understand our little family. They'll be able to read about all the fun things we have done and they'll be able to read how much we love them. So, this blog is really for them and this post is about their daddy.
Will is the best daddy ever.period. He is genuine. What you see, is what you get. He is the same all the time. He was meant to be a daddy. I know I am lucky everyday. I know our children are lucky everyday. I will never take him for granted. I know what it's like to not have a daddy and I NEVER wanted that for my babies. I never wanted them to feel that ache in their hearts. So, I married the most perfect man ever. The sweetest man, the kindest man, the funniest man, the best man.
Will, I love you more than all the stars in the sky. You truly saved me and together we started a life that I dreamed of as a little girl. I am more than thankful for you and I pray for many more days on this earth with you. Rocking with you on the front porch, when we're old and gray, will be the cherry on top of a wonderful life. I love you.
XXOO
Will is the best daddy ever.period. He is genuine. What you see, is what you get. He is the same all the time. He was meant to be a daddy. I know I am lucky everyday. I know our children are lucky everyday. I will never take him for granted. I know what it's like to not have a daddy and I NEVER wanted that for my babies. I never wanted them to feel that ache in their hearts. So, I married the most perfect man ever. The sweetest man, the kindest man, the funniest man, the best man.
Will, I love you more than all the stars in the sky. You truly saved me and together we started a life that I dreamed of as a little girl. I am more than thankful for you and I pray for many more days on this earth with you. Rocking with you on the front porch, when we're old and gray, will be the cherry on top of a wonderful life. I love you.
Sunday, June 10, 2012
The best vacation ever...
Well, today we came home from the best vacation ever. We didn't go on a cruise and it wasn't another Disney trip...we went to Oak Island, NC and stayed in my husband's grandparents' house. It was just my kids, my husband and me this time. The weather was perfect, not a drop of rain or a cloud in sight. There were no crowds and we even got to bring our dog :) It was just perfect. So, I won't forget anything, I'm going to write down what we did in this blog post. I have some great suggestions for places to go if you ever head over across the bridge into that sweet spot....I hope you enjoy :)
Wednesday, Day 1: We left our house around 3:00 and headed to Oak Island...we were over the moon excited. The only thing that went wrong was that I let Mollie take a nap before we left and she didn't sleep a wink the whole way there...that made for a long 4 hours, but with the help of Hap Palmer baby dvds, we made it! We ate junk food and didn't get in the bed until midnight, but it was ok...I mean, it's vacation, right? So, there are no bedtimes on vacations.
Thursday, Day 2: We got up and had breakfast at the beach house and then headed to the beach. Mollie was mesmerized by the sand and ocean and let me tell you, that baby has no fear. I mean, none. She runs straight to the water, unlike her brothers who used to scream if I got them anywhere near it when they were that age. It makes for a very tiring beach time, but it's worth it to see all of our kids so happy. I love it. I don't want it to ever end. We ate a late lunch at Bob's Dogs on the island. That is the best place in the world to get a meatloaf sandwich. Weird, I know, but it's so good. Little Will had his first one and almost ate the whole thing but then said, "Man vs. Food...Food wins!" and took the rest home in a box :) We made our trip to Walmart (of course) and got some junk...Mollie an Ariel barbie, Cole a spiderman and Little Will wanted to wait to get his prize at the beach shop. We always get the kids junk on trips. That's part of the fun :) I always remember my grandfather buying me barbies when he took me to the beach. So, I have to carry on the toy tradition. Little Will ended up getting a boogey board at Sands Beach shop that afternoon. We rode to Southport, NC to look around (it's so peaceful there) and then came home and the boys went back to the beach. Oh, I did find Jennelle Evans' (from Teen Mom 2) house on Oak Island. She lives pretty close to Will's grandparents...she had a new Camaro out front...kind of silly, but you know me, I had to see it. Will got carry-out fish and shrimp for dinner from Jones Seafood on the island....yum! GREAT DAY :)
Friday, Day 3: Our Calabash day...I love Calabash, NC. That is the neatest place ever. We got up early and went there for most of the day. We got there when the shops opened and looked around for a little bit. I took Mollie in the stroller and the boys went with Daddy. We met back up a little later and Will got me a Kamelon ring for our 13th anniversary (which is next week!). I was beyond surprised and nervous because stuff like that always makes me nervous. I picked out a beautiful silver ring with a sparkly center, which was actually called Carribean Wave. How perfect :) We ate lunch at Beck's in Calabash (thank you, thank you Kim Taylor for telling us about that place). I had the best crabcake sandwich of my life. The boys got fish sandwiches and Mollie had her first taste of fish... and loved it! She hated slaw though :) She gets that from her daddy, not me. I could eat slaw everyday of my life. We drove to Myrtle Beach after that and walked around Broadway at the Beach...really just to go to It's Sugar, of course. The boys always fill a bag with sugary, sour stuff. We drove back to Oak Island and I took a walk to Crazy Cake Chicks which is about a block from our house. I got a 6 cupcake special and brought them back to everyone...yum....red velvet...key lime....oh my goodness...We ended the night at Pizza Hut and more beach time and we took the kids to see the Oak Island lighthouse. Perfect day :)
Saturday, Day 4: Our Wilmington day....We got up early and made it to the first departure of the Southport Ferry at 10:45. So fun :) I remember riding that same ferry for the first time about 3 months after Will and I were engaged. I had never been on a ferry in my life. This was Mollie's first time. She loved it. Cole was a little scared of all the birds (He hates birds...gets it honest from me). He was ok after we went inside and on the opposite side where the birds weren't hovering. We got to Kure Beach and ate at the Kure Beach diner. We had hamburgers and corn nuggets...another yummy thing. Mollie had her first taste of cantelope and loved it. We then rode on to Wilmington and the boys went to see the U.S.S. North Carolina while Mollie and I went to Independence Mall...I couldn't get a stroller all around that ship :) The boys LOVED the ship and Mollie and I had some girl time. I bought my first MAC lipstick in the color Creme de Nude (love it!) and went to Gymboree. One Chicfila cookie later, and we were back on the road and picking up the boys. We came home and then went on the beach (we saw tons of jellyfish that day!) and had leftovers at home for supper with ice cream. We went to the park on Oak Island and let the kids play...Mollie loved the swings. Cole learned how to slide down the super high pole on the playset. We watched the Queens Concert and ate more cupcakes from Crazy Cake Chicks. Another perfect day :)
Sunday, Day 5: Time to head home...ate breakfast at the Boathouse (yummy pancakes) and hit the road to come back to Lake Wylie. It was a great vacation. Nothing fancy...nothing that most people would write a blog about, but it was perfect to me. We were all together. We were all healthy. We were all smilin'. The air smelled salty and our bellies were full. We got up early and went to bed late. Mollie took 3 and half hour naps sometimes because the sun and sand wore her out. It was the best. I can't wait to go back and just think, summer just started :)
Wednesday, Day 1: We left our house around 3:00 and headed to Oak Island...we were over the moon excited. The only thing that went wrong was that I let Mollie take a nap before we left and she didn't sleep a wink the whole way there...that made for a long 4 hours, but with the help of Hap Palmer baby dvds, we made it! We ate junk food and didn't get in the bed until midnight, but it was ok...I mean, it's vacation, right? So, there are no bedtimes on vacations.
Thursday, Day 2: We got up and had breakfast at the beach house and then headed to the beach. Mollie was mesmerized by the sand and ocean and let me tell you, that baby has no fear. I mean, none. She runs straight to the water, unlike her brothers who used to scream if I got them anywhere near it when they were that age. It makes for a very tiring beach time, but it's worth it to see all of our kids so happy. I love it. I don't want it to ever end. We ate a late lunch at Bob's Dogs on the island. That is the best place in the world to get a meatloaf sandwich. Weird, I know, but it's so good. Little Will had his first one and almost ate the whole thing but then said, "Man vs. Food...Food wins!" and took the rest home in a box :) We made our trip to Walmart (of course) and got some junk...Mollie an Ariel barbie, Cole a spiderman and Little Will wanted to wait to get his prize at the beach shop. We always get the kids junk on trips. That's part of the fun :) I always remember my grandfather buying me barbies when he took me to the beach. So, I have to carry on the toy tradition. Little Will ended up getting a boogey board at Sands Beach shop that afternoon. We rode to Southport, NC to look around (it's so peaceful there) and then came home and the boys went back to the beach. Oh, I did find Jennelle Evans' (from Teen Mom 2) house on Oak Island. She lives pretty close to Will's grandparents...she had a new Camaro out front...kind of silly, but you know me, I had to see it. Will got carry-out fish and shrimp for dinner from Jones Seafood on the island....yum! GREAT DAY :)
Friday, Day 3: Our Calabash day...I love Calabash, NC. That is the neatest place ever. We got up early and went there for most of the day. We got there when the shops opened and looked around for a little bit. I took Mollie in the stroller and the boys went with Daddy. We met back up a little later and Will got me a Kamelon ring for our 13th anniversary (which is next week!). I was beyond surprised and nervous because stuff like that always makes me nervous. I picked out a beautiful silver ring with a sparkly center, which was actually called Carribean Wave. How perfect :) We ate lunch at Beck's in Calabash (thank you, thank you Kim Taylor for telling us about that place). I had the best crabcake sandwich of my life. The boys got fish sandwiches and Mollie had her first taste of fish... and loved it! She hated slaw though :) She gets that from her daddy, not me. I could eat slaw everyday of my life. We drove to Myrtle Beach after that and walked around Broadway at the Beach...really just to go to It's Sugar, of course. The boys always fill a bag with sugary, sour stuff. We drove back to Oak Island and I took a walk to Crazy Cake Chicks which is about a block from our house. I got a 6 cupcake special and brought them back to everyone...yum....red velvet...key lime....oh my goodness...We ended the night at Pizza Hut and more beach time and we took the kids to see the Oak Island lighthouse. Perfect day :)
Saturday, Day 4: Our Wilmington day....We got up early and made it to the first departure of the Southport Ferry at 10:45. So fun :) I remember riding that same ferry for the first time about 3 months after Will and I were engaged. I had never been on a ferry in my life. This was Mollie's first time. She loved it. Cole was a little scared of all the birds (He hates birds...gets it honest from me). He was ok after we went inside and on the opposite side where the birds weren't hovering. We got to Kure Beach and ate at the Kure Beach diner. We had hamburgers and corn nuggets...another yummy thing. Mollie had her first taste of cantelope and loved it. We then rode on to Wilmington and the boys went to see the U.S.S. North Carolina while Mollie and I went to Independence Mall...I couldn't get a stroller all around that ship :) The boys LOVED the ship and Mollie and I had some girl time. I bought my first MAC lipstick in the color Creme de Nude (love it!) and went to Gymboree. One Chicfila cookie later, and we were back on the road and picking up the boys. We came home and then went on the beach (we saw tons of jellyfish that day!) and had leftovers at home for supper with ice cream. We went to the park on Oak Island and let the kids play...Mollie loved the swings. Cole learned how to slide down the super high pole on the playset. We watched the Queens Concert and ate more cupcakes from Crazy Cake Chicks. Another perfect day :)
Sunday, Day 5: Time to head home...ate breakfast at the Boathouse (yummy pancakes) and hit the road to come back to Lake Wylie. It was a great vacation. Nothing fancy...nothing that most people would write a blog about, but it was perfect to me. We were all together. We were all healthy. We were all smilin'. The air smelled salty and our bellies were full. We got up early and went to bed late. Mollie took 3 and half hour naps sometimes because the sun and sand wore her out. It was the best. I can't wait to go back and just think, summer just started :)
Monday, June 4, 2012
Summer Bucket List 2012
It's Monday and it's June 4th and it's SUMMER!!! I know it's not technically the summer season, but it's summer break and that's just as good. Today, me and the kids are creating our summer bucket list (Thank you Pinterest and my friend, Sheila, who is doing this with her kids). I was very inspired to create a list of things we want to accomplish this summer...I can't wait to hear what the boys come up with. I'm gonna head to the Dollar Tree later today and get our bucket and wooden clothes pins (you write each item on a clothes pin and clip it to the side of the bucket and as you complete each thing, you throw it in the bucket! I'll post our final summer bucket list later, but here are a few of mine...
*to see the ocean and sand
*to go to Lazy 5 Ranch with the kids
*to spend the night at the Great Wolf Lodge with the family
*to go to a concert for our 13th anniversary
Ok, that's just a few...it'll be better when the kids share their input :) This summer is gonna prove to be one of the best yet. What's on your summer bucket list??
XXOO
*to see the ocean and sand
*to go to Lazy 5 Ranch with the kids
*to spend the night at the Great Wolf Lodge with the family
*to go to a concert for our 13th anniversary
Ok, that's just a few...it'll be better when the kids share their input :) This summer is gonna prove to be one of the best yet. What's on your summer bucket list??
XXOO
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Moving on up...
Today my first born son "graduated" third grade and is now a rising fourth grader. That just does not seem possible. I have heard a lot of people saying that lately about their children growing up and I'm right there with them. I have no idea where time goes. The older I get, the worse it gets and I've heard that said alot too. But today, my 9 year old son had yearbook signing day, said goodbye to the best little 3rd grade class ever and hopped in the minivan ready for summer :) We have almost 3 months to soak up all the sun and fun we can handle and then it's on to 4th grade...but I can't think about that now. I'm going to be like Scarlett O'Hara and think about that tomorrow or in August to be exact because I'm sure it'll be here in a flash anyway...
Happy Friday Eve!!!
XXOO
Happy Friday Eve!!!
XXOO
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Ten years...
Ten years ago this week, I left my job as a kindergarten teacher and became a stay-at-home mama. I remember that day like it was yesterday. I was 4 months pregnant and had just found out I was having a boy. I was beyond excited :) I don't ever really remember hesitating with our decision for me to stay home with Little Will. I kind of felt like it was meant to be that way all along.
That last day as a kindergarten teacher was bittersweet but as the day came to a close, I remember packing up my little, tiny, baby blue Volkswagen Beetle and driving out of Oakdale Elementary's parking lot for the last time. I cried. I cried because I loved being a teacher and I cried because I was starting a new chapter in my life and I was happy, scared and excited all at the same time. I drove straight to Chicfila and bought a huge lemonade and was so nervous that I dropped the whole thing in my car. I never got all that sticky out :)
So, today as I sit here in our home that is FULL of children, I am so thankful. I am thankful that I was given the opportunity to savor every minute with them...the good and the tough. I am thankful that I didn't know how hard it was going to be. I am thankful that I am able to give my children what I didn't have as a child. And sometimes I do miss those school days but I am experiencing them from a different perspective now and I love it :)
That last day as a kindergarten teacher was bittersweet but as the day came to a close, I remember packing up my little, tiny, baby blue Volkswagen Beetle and driving out of Oakdale Elementary's parking lot for the last time. I cried. I cried because I loved being a teacher and I cried because I was starting a new chapter in my life and I was happy, scared and excited all at the same time. I drove straight to Chicfila and bought a huge lemonade and was so nervous that I dropped the whole thing in my car. I never got all that sticky out :)
So, today as I sit here in our home that is FULL of children, I am so thankful. I am thankful that I was given the opportunity to savor every minute with them...the good and the tough. I am thankful that I didn't know how hard it was going to be. I am thankful that I am able to give my children what I didn't have as a child. And sometimes I do miss those school days but I am experiencing them from a different perspective now and I love it :)
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Preschool days...
Today was Cole's last day of preschool...forever. I don't know why it hit me like a ton of bricks, but it did. I have cried off and on all day. I wish life could always be like it is in preschool. Cole has grown so much since that first day when he was only 3. I am so proud of my little, almost kindergartener. And his teachers...well, I get attached to teachers very easily, but especially when they are as sweet and kind as Cole's teachers were this year and last. So, today was bittersweet, as all you mommies know. Those preschool days don't last forever, so seriously, love them while you can...enjoy the fingerpaint and the cookies and juice and the pumpkin patch trips and the puppet shows. Enjoy the tricycles and the building blocks. Enjoy the alphabet and the circle times. Enjoy it all through your child's eyes because preschool days are precious days :)
XXOO
XXOO
Friday, May 18, 2012
Cole's Graduation
My baby boy is graduating today....no, not from high school but from pre-k :) I am so proud of him. These 2 years at our little preschool have literally flown by. What a blessing the past 2 years have been....not only for Cole, but our whole family. We have all made friends that we will keep for a lifetime and memories that we will hold onto forever.
XXOO!
So, tonight as I sit and watch my baby boy, Cole sing "The B-I-B-L-E" with all his friends, there'll be a lump in my throat and a tug on my heart. The future is bright, Coley. I am so proud of you :) I love you more than you will ever know and I promise your graduation present will be a wrestling championship belt ;)
XXOO!Monday, May 14, 2012
Mother's Day...
Well, yesterday was Mother's day. Mother's day is very special to me and a little sad...I am so happy that I am a mother but I lost my mama almost 6 years ago. So, it's a day with mixed feelings...
My mother was really my grandmother. She was only 39 when I was born, so she was a very young grandma :) She took on the responsibility of being my mom when I was only about 7 months old. She did everything...I mean, everything. She left her career as a nurse to be a stay-at-home mom to me. Like I've said before, she was everything to me. She was kind, sweet, soft-spoken and my best friend. She had so much class :) I always wanted to be just like her. She was beautiful inside and out. She died way too young. I had just turned 30 and she had just turned 70. We had too many things we still needed to do together. She never rode on an airplane. She never went on a cruise. She never went to Disney World. She never left the USA. The farthest west she ever went was to Nashville, TN. She left this world, 85 pounds and fighting all the way. She didn't want to leave us...but I know she busted heaven's gates wide open :)
I have been asked before where was my "real" mother, or my biological mother....I don't have a relationship with her. I was raised with her around, but she took on more the role of sister, rather than mother. She didn't like being a mother. She told me that when I was five. She told me that every year of my life until I was 33 and I walked away. I have never looked back. I know I'll never see her again.
So, on Mother's day, I think about my grandma and how wonderful and perfect she was to me. I wish I could taste her cookin' one more time. I wish I could just hug her and smell her perfume mixed with double mint chewing gum. I think about her because she saved me. She gave me so much and gave up so much. I am forever thankful :)
And on Mother's day, I think about how amazing it is that I'm a mom...my only dream as a child...to be a mama...I wanted to have lots of kids and now I do! (Three is a lot to me!) and I just thank the Lord every day for these 3 beautiful blessings. The Lord knew the desire of my heart. He knew I wanted to break the chain. I think I have. There is nothing greater that I could do with my life. Nothing.
Happy Mother's Day!! XXOO
My mother was really my grandmother. She was only 39 when I was born, so she was a very young grandma :) She took on the responsibility of being my mom when I was only about 7 months old. She did everything...I mean, everything. She left her career as a nurse to be a stay-at-home mom to me. Like I've said before, she was everything to me. She was kind, sweet, soft-spoken and my best friend. She had so much class :) I always wanted to be just like her. She was beautiful inside and out. She died way too young. I had just turned 30 and she had just turned 70. We had too many things we still needed to do together. She never rode on an airplane. She never went on a cruise. She never went to Disney World. She never left the USA. The farthest west she ever went was to Nashville, TN. She left this world, 85 pounds and fighting all the way. She didn't want to leave us...but I know she busted heaven's gates wide open :)
I have been asked before where was my "real" mother, or my biological mother....I don't have a relationship with her. I was raised with her around, but she took on more the role of sister, rather than mother. She didn't like being a mother. She told me that when I was five. She told me that every year of my life until I was 33 and I walked away. I have never looked back. I know I'll never see her again.
So, on Mother's day, I think about my grandma and how wonderful and perfect she was to me. I wish I could taste her cookin' one more time. I wish I could just hug her and smell her perfume mixed with double mint chewing gum. I think about her because she saved me. She gave me so much and gave up so much. I am forever thankful :)
And on Mother's day, I think about how amazing it is that I'm a mom...my only dream as a child...to be a mama...I wanted to have lots of kids and now I do! (Three is a lot to me!) and I just thank the Lord every day for these 3 beautiful blessings. The Lord knew the desire of my heart. He knew I wanted to break the chain. I think I have. There is nothing greater that I could do with my life. Nothing.
Happy Mother's Day!! XXOO
Thursday, May 10, 2012
25 things....
Happy Friday eve!!!!
Today, I was reading a new blog, Love of Family and Home...http://www.loveoffamilyandhome.net/2012/02/25-things.html and I thought this idea was really neat...25 things...yes, 25 random things. You write 25 random things that you are thinking about right now and post them. I think I will give that a try. Remember how I love to read people's favorite things and their lists?? Well, this was right up my alley. So, here's my 25 random things I'm thinking of/doing/saying...you get the idea :)
1. I am so glad it's Thursday. Thursday is my Friday. It's been that way for 12 years....
2. I got to go on a field trip with my son, Cole today. I had so much fun...for real. It was just me and him...no other siblings. That was a first. Boy, did he need that mommy time. I wouldn't trade that for anything.
3. Today was Muffins for Moms day at Cole's preschool. He wrote some really cute things about me and I put my framed present on my dresser as soon as I got home.
4. I am craving cupcakes...
5. I am craving pizza...
6. I am craving movie theater popcorn and a huge fountain coke....
7. The past 3 things being said, I'll probably not have any of that for supper since we only have cereal and lunch meat in the house...it's grocery time :( boo
8. Little Will (my oldest son) finished PASS testing today!!!!
9. Mollie is in the midst of separation anxiety with Mommy....I can't go around the corner without her bursting into tears :(
10. Swamp People comes on tonight and it better be a new episode.
11. I wish I still watched The Office on Thursdays, but I can't get past Michael being gone...
12. I wear pajamas most of my life.
13. I hate the new Little Caesar's Pizza commercial.
14. I just remembered Little Will has soccer practice tonight, so now I have to change out of my pajamas.
15. I think I may buy Mollie a pink kitchen set, since I always wanted one :)
16. The new My Little Ponies aren't as good as the 1980's ones.
17. I can't wait to grill out tomorrow night :)
18. I can't wait to grill out Saturday night :)
19. I'm finally going to break down and buy the kids one of those hard plastic pools at Walmart...
20. Reruns of the Real Housewives of NJ never got old.
21. My next lipstick purchase is going to be the TREAT Coconut Lip Balm....I have to have it.
22. Walmart has some really pretty dresses and shirts out right now :)
23. I just got my first Maxi dress...don't laugh when I wear it...I'm very aware of myself in a dress that's all the way to the ground :)
24. I can't ever seem to wear tennis shoes.
25. This "25 Random Things" list was kind of fun to write :)
Ok, so that's my 25 things for today. I know some of them are super silly and very unimportant in the scheme of life, but I thought it would be fun. You know, I'm all about fun, especially on a Friday eve!
What are your 25 things for today???
Today, I was reading a new blog, Love of Family and Home...http://www.loveoffamilyandhome.net/2012/02/25-things.html and I thought this idea was really neat...25 things...yes, 25 random things. You write 25 random things that you are thinking about right now and post them. I think I will give that a try. Remember how I love to read people's favorite things and their lists?? Well, this was right up my alley. So, here's my 25 random things I'm thinking of/doing/saying...you get the idea :)
1. I am so glad it's Thursday. Thursday is my Friday. It's been that way for 12 years....
2. I got to go on a field trip with my son, Cole today. I had so much fun...for real. It was just me and him...no other siblings. That was a first. Boy, did he need that mommy time. I wouldn't trade that for anything.
3. Today was Muffins for Moms day at Cole's preschool. He wrote some really cute things about me and I put my framed present on my dresser as soon as I got home.
4. I am craving cupcakes...
5. I am craving pizza...
6. I am craving movie theater popcorn and a huge fountain coke....
7. The past 3 things being said, I'll probably not have any of that for supper since we only have cereal and lunch meat in the house...it's grocery time :( boo
8. Little Will (my oldest son) finished PASS testing today!!!!
9. Mollie is in the midst of separation anxiety with Mommy....I can't go around the corner without her bursting into tears :(
10. Swamp People comes on tonight and it better be a new episode.
11. I wish I still watched The Office on Thursdays, but I can't get past Michael being gone...
12. I wear pajamas most of my life.
13. I hate the new Little Caesar's Pizza commercial.
14. I just remembered Little Will has soccer practice tonight, so now I have to change out of my pajamas.
15. I think I may buy Mollie a pink kitchen set, since I always wanted one :)
16. The new My Little Ponies aren't as good as the 1980's ones.
17. I can't wait to grill out tomorrow night :)
18. I can't wait to grill out Saturday night :)
19. I'm finally going to break down and buy the kids one of those hard plastic pools at Walmart...
20. Reruns of the Real Housewives of NJ never got old.
21. My next lipstick purchase is going to be the TREAT Coconut Lip Balm....I have to have it.
22. Walmart has some really pretty dresses and shirts out right now :)
23. I just got my first Maxi dress...don't laugh when I wear it...I'm very aware of myself in a dress that's all the way to the ground :)
24. I can't ever seem to wear tennis shoes.
25. This "25 Random Things" list was kind of fun to write :)
Ok, so that's my 25 things for today. I know some of them are super silly and very unimportant in the scheme of life, but I thought it would be fun. You know, I'm all about fun, especially on a Friday eve!
What are your 25 things for today???
Thursday, May 3, 2012
*Spring Makeup Favorites Update*
Ok, so the other day I posted about some new products I had gotten on a mini-makeup haul to CVS....well, here are my updates! I also stopped at Walgreens today and did a little nail polish shopping with my almost 16 month old baby girl :) So, this post today will kind of fill you in on what I have liked so far and what 3 cooooool things I got today for only $6.32 (for all 3)!
*The Suave Shampoo.....that stuff is the best. I love it...my hair is super clean, smells so good and I even used it on my 2 boys after a very sweaty day of outdoor play. They went to sleep saying their hair smelled like "Na na na na na na, let's go bananas!" (if you have ever watched the Fresh Beat Band, you know that song). I am very impressed with a $2.99 (for the family size) shampoo :)
*All of the nail colors I got the other day are really pretty but I have to say the Mega line from Wet n' Wild is soooo much better. Pay the extra $1.00. That stuff really lasts and doesn't chip...I would compare it to OPI...I'm serious. So, try it and you'll see what I mean :)
*Today's mini-haul...only $6.32 haul to be exact... and it was probably my favorite. I got 2 nail shades from Wet n' Wild that I have actually watched a youtube video about. The first one is from the Mega line in the color Club Havana (don't you just love that name??)
*these are not my nails....I could only wish for nails that symmetrical and perfect :)
The other color is 2% Milk by Wet n' Wild...I love milk, so maybe that's why I bought it...at any rate, it was on sale for 99 cents, so I couldn't resist. Also, Mollie had a death grip on it and I was afraid if I grabbed it from her, I would drop it and it would bust all over Walgreens.
very pretty, neutral color...can't wait to use it :)
The last thing I got was a very cool bronzer by Wet n' Wild (and yes, I do buy other brands...I'm just on a Wet n' Wild kick right now). It's Color Icon Bronzer in Ticket to Brazil...I have already used it...didn't drop it in the sink and it's huge! You get a ton of product for only $3.99. Now, that's my speed.
So, that's my update for this beautiful 90 degrees in May, Friday eve!! Happy Shopping!!
*The Suave Shampoo.....that stuff is the best. I love it...my hair is super clean, smells so good and I even used it on my 2 boys after a very sweaty day of outdoor play. They went to sleep saying their hair smelled like "Na na na na na na, let's go bananas!" (if you have ever watched the Fresh Beat Band, you know that song). I am very impressed with a $2.99 (for the family size) shampoo :)
*All of the nail colors I got the other day are really pretty but I have to say the Mega line from Wet n' Wild is soooo much better. Pay the extra $1.00. That stuff really lasts and doesn't chip...I would compare it to OPI...I'm serious. So, try it and you'll see what I mean :)
*Today's mini-haul...only $6.32 haul to be exact... and it was probably my favorite. I got 2 nail shades from Wet n' Wild that I have actually watched a youtube video about. The first one is from the Mega line in the color Club Havana (don't you just love that name??)
The other color is 2% Milk by Wet n' Wild...I love milk, so maybe that's why I bought it...at any rate, it was on sale for 99 cents, so I couldn't resist. Also, Mollie had a death grip on it and I was afraid if I grabbed it from her, I would drop it and it would bust all over Walgreens.
The last thing I got was a very cool bronzer by Wet n' Wild (and yes, I do buy other brands...I'm just on a Wet n' Wild kick right now). It's Color Icon Bronzer in Ticket to Brazil...I have already used it...didn't drop it in the sink and it's huge! You get a ton of product for only $3.99. Now, that's my speed.
So, that's my update for this beautiful 90 degrees in May, Friday eve!! Happy Shopping!!
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Spring Makeup Favorites
Hey there!
I'm back!!
Yes, I have been super busy with life the last couple of months and really, I'm still super busy, but I wanted to take a second today to write. I think writing this blog helps me, in some sort of way :) Kind of like an online diary, without the lock and key!
Today is the first day of May, it's 90 degrees and there are only 21 more days of school left! Yay! This has been a great year for my boys in school, but I'm so ready for a break. You know, no alarm clocks, no rushing out at 7:15, no agendas, no tests...you get the idea. Everyone needs a break and our's is coming up soon. I can't wait :)
Something that is a little passion of mine is....makeup :) I have always secretly wished I could be a makeup artist one day. I doubt I'll ever go to school for that career, but I think it's so fun to learn and try new things with makeup. I was never taught a thing about makeup growing up (Mollie, I promise I will teach you), so I've learned most everything I know from books and youtube videos. Yes, you can find EVERYTHING on youtube, even how to apply eyeliner and which bronzer is the best. My favorite videos are haul videos, you know, when someone goes shopping and they come home and tell about everything they got :) I get so many ideas from those videos. You kind of get to see what stuff is good and sometimes, what is junk!
So, here's my mini-haul blog post for today...it's my first one!
All of these products were purchased at CVS...so they are budget friendly too :)
1. Suave Everlasting Sunshine Shampoo....I watched a review on this shampoo last week from my favorite beauty blogger, Emily Eddington, or the Beauty Broadcast. She is great and raved about the smell of this shampoo. It totally lives up to the praise. This stuff smells AMAZING! Kind of like a tropical, vanilla, banana smoothie :) Yum! I love Suave products anyway, so this one was at the top of my list to try. I got the last 2 bottles in Lake Wylie :)
2. Wet n' Wild Eye Trio in Silent Treatment...I love this because it's easy and even has labels on where to put the different shades! Yay for me! I am hoping this little set inspires a smokey eye sometime soon :)
3. Wet n' Wild Mega Glo Bronzer in Starlight Bronze...I love this product! It's so pretty on and you can use the shades individually or all together. I did mine altogether and loved it. Then, I dropped it in the sink and it shattered...Ha! That's Murphy's law. Oh well...I'll purchase this again sometime soon. It was pretty while it lasted :)
4. Wet n' Wild Megalast nail color in Wet Cement....love this shade, love the extra wide brush, love the megalast line...much thicker than the .99 Wet n' Wild shades. This one was $1.99 and the extra dollar was worth it :) It dried faster and has a really pretty finish. I'll be trying more of these soon.
5. Wet n' Wild Shine nail color in French White Creme...only .99 and a really pretty non-sparkly white, kind of thin but 3 coats will make it look just about like the Megalast colors. I love a pretty white for an accent nail and it's great to find one that cheap :)
6. Wet n' Wild Shine nail color in Tickled Pink...also only .99 and a really pretty non-sparkly baby pink, I'm wearing it today on my ring fingers with the Wet Cement color on the other nails...very cute :) also kind of thin but 3 coats worked....took a little longer to dry than the Megalast shade.
Ok, that was my mini-drugstore haul :) I hope it inspires you to paint your toes and wear a smokey eye to the elementary school :)
Until the next blog....Happy May!!
I'm back!!
Yes, I have been super busy with life the last couple of months and really, I'm still super busy, but I wanted to take a second today to write. I think writing this blog helps me, in some sort of way :) Kind of like an online diary, without the lock and key!
Today is the first day of May, it's 90 degrees and there are only 21 more days of school left! Yay! This has been a great year for my boys in school, but I'm so ready for a break. You know, no alarm clocks, no rushing out at 7:15, no agendas, no tests...you get the idea. Everyone needs a break and our's is coming up soon. I can't wait :)
Something that is a little passion of mine is....makeup :) I have always secretly wished I could be a makeup artist one day. I doubt I'll ever go to school for that career, but I think it's so fun to learn and try new things with makeup. I was never taught a thing about makeup growing up (Mollie, I promise I will teach you), so I've learned most everything I know from books and youtube videos. Yes, you can find EVERYTHING on youtube, even how to apply eyeliner and which bronzer is the best. My favorite videos are haul videos, you know, when someone goes shopping and they come home and tell about everything they got :) I get so many ideas from those videos. You kind of get to see what stuff is good and sometimes, what is junk!
So, here's my mini-haul blog post for today...it's my first one!
All of these products were purchased at CVS...so they are budget friendly too :)
Ok, that was my mini-drugstore haul :) I hope it inspires you to paint your toes and wear a smokey eye to the elementary school :)
Until the next blog....Happy May!!
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Happy February!
I am in shock...it's already February and I don't think I've written a blog since Cole's birthday! Oh well...you all know how it is to be a mama and barely look up from a dirty diaper all day. That's my life, right now. I heard this saying from another friend...when you are a mother of small children, the days are long but the years are short. So, I'm trying to remember that each and every day. This season in my life will pass....all too soon, I know and when that day comes, I'm sure I'll long for days of dirty diapers and Dora the Explorer :)
Valentines's day is coming in 6 days and boy, I have a lot of people to love. I'm looking forward to school parties and Valentine cupcakes :) I don't know if a romantic dinner is in the cards for us this year...Mollie is about to walk and I'm not letting her out of sight to save my life. I have to see it...I have to see that sweet baby girl walk. I saw it with Will and missed it with Cole and that devastated me :( So, back to the romantic dinner...I'm thinking of Olive Garden take out this year....we can have our own romantic dinner when the kids go to bed. That's my speed. We'll see...you never know what my sweetheart has in store :)
Update on our family:
Mollie about to walk...she's taken 7 steps (today!) and I have it on tape (yay!)
Cole is excited to be the leader in his class on Valentine's day next week and have a sundae party. He's signed up for baseball this spring and can't wait to play :) He is writing more words and draws me pictures every single day. In only 3 weeks, he'll be signing up for kindergarten...I do not think I'm ready for it...I mean, he's my baby boy....
Little Will is loving school and today, he is going to his first afterschool club...the P.E. Club. He's soooo excited. He adores Coach Cook and can't wait to play "extra" games. He's learning about the Civil War and biographies and for Black History month, he chose Muhammed Ali to study. He's loving learning about a real boxer...probably the best one of all time :)
All of us went to the circus for the first time together last Saturday :) That was great! Lots of fun and lots of cotton candy...my favorite. Our next adventure is hopefully the Lazy 5 Ranch...we've never been....update on that later!
Ok, just thought I would write today...God's blessings are everywhere. Valentine's day and spring is just around the corner...I can't wait!
Valentines's day is coming in 6 days and boy, I have a lot of people to love. I'm looking forward to school parties and Valentine cupcakes :) I don't know if a romantic dinner is in the cards for us this year...Mollie is about to walk and I'm not letting her out of sight to save my life. I have to see it...I have to see that sweet baby girl walk. I saw it with Will and missed it with Cole and that devastated me :( So, back to the romantic dinner...I'm thinking of Olive Garden take out this year....we can have our own romantic dinner when the kids go to bed. That's my speed. We'll see...you never know what my sweetheart has in store :)
Update on our family:
Mollie about to walk...she's taken 7 steps (today!) and I have it on tape (yay!)
Cole is excited to be the leader in his class on Valentine's day next week and have a sundae party. He's signed up for baseball this spring and can't wait to play :) He is writing more words and draws me pictures every single day. In only 3 weeks, he'll be signing up for kindergarten...I do not think I'm ready for it...I mean, he's my baby boy....
Little Will is loving school and today, he is going to his first afterschool club...the P.E. Club. He's soooo excited. He adores Coach Cook and can't wait to play "extra" games. He's learning about the Civil War and biographies and for Black History month, he chose Muhammed Ali to study. He's loving learning about a real boxer...probably the best one of all time :)
All of us went to the circus for the first time together last Saturday :) That was great! Lots of fun and lots of cotton candy...my favorite. Our next adventure is hopefully the Lazy 5 Ranch...we've never been....update on that later!
Ok, just thought I would write today...God's blessings are everywhere. Valentine's day and spring is just around the corner...I can't wait!
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Happy Birthday Cole!
Ok, so as I think about my soon-to-be 5 year old son, I think about everything he is and how special that child is to me and everyone that loves him. He's me with a lot more confidence. He's so many things...so here are just a few:
1. Cole is a talker...he is just like me. I know he has to meet his word quota by 9:00 am each day :) He started talking, no kidding, at 9 months. He said "ball" and the rest was history. He was saying words like "despicable" at 2 and saying "actually" before every sentence at 3 :) As my Nanni would say, "You better not make him hush!" So, I won't. Cole, keep on talking :)
2. Cole is funny :) That boy can make you laugh...sometimes, he's a little crazy, but he's got a sense of humor that won't quit. He got that from his daddy and a little bit of me. He's really come out of his shell this past year and I see him joking around more and more and it makes me smile.
3. Cole has a beautiful voice. One of these days, I'm gonna get him to sing for the world, but for now, I get to hear him sing like an angel. His voice makes me cry. The first time I heard him sing "Fireflies" I about passed out. That child has a little gift...and I'm so proud :)
4. Cole is passionate about everything....so, if he loves you, he really loves you. If he loves Star Wars (which he adores) he REALLY loves it :)
5. He adores his big brother. Now, this one will really make me cry. Those two were together from day one. Cole looks up to Little Will and would do anything for him. He lives for trips to Little Will's elementary school, where he can have lunch with his big brother. I made his day when I took him to Little Will's Christmas party at school to help out. Anytime he can be with his brother, he is. I hope they have one another their whole lives. He says he's gonna live with Little Will forever :)
6. Cole loves gizzards from Shrimp Boat...ok, what a weird thing to write about but not many people love gizzards. Well, his daddy does and passed down that wonderful trait to his son :) To see them both eatin' those crispy, greasy things...well, it's a sight but I wouldn't miss it for the world.
7. Cole has a smile that won't quit :) Have you seen him lately? That smile is as big as the moon. I love it. He's looked like that since the day he was born. I had never seen a baby look like that. Those big ol' eyes and that smile. I could look at it all day :)
8. Cole loves school. He has the best teachers and he is like a little sponge with everything they teach. He loves them and he truly wouldn't want to be anywhere else than his little preschool and I'm so thankful.
9. Cole is Mollie's buddy...yes, that baby girl follows him all over the house. It's the cutest thing ever. I say they are partners in crime :) I hope it's that way forever.
10. And finally, most importantly, Cole loves Jesus. He always has loved to go to church and to listen to bible stories. That child knows more about Jesus than a lot of adults. I hope he never loses that love and I hope it continues to grow.
So, my baby boy is almost 5....These past 5 years have been precious with you sweetheart. I love you more than all the stars in the sky and all the grains of sand on the beach. I love you as far as the ocean stretches across the world. You are my heart, baby boy. I love you.
Love,
Mama
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