The Thrifty Gypsy

The Fair and being unplugged

2011-08-22T12:53:00.004-04:00

Every year we go to the "Fair". I think the first time my parents brought me I was 2 years old and we have been going ever since. So of course this tradition has carried over to my children. The boys' first trip was when they were 8 months old. And Madi's first trip she was about 4 weeks old. It's just something we do every year. We bring Mema and Papa with us every year too. The kids love seeing the animals and of course the rides. And my all time favorite, funnel cake! Yummmmm

One of the sheep decided to kiss Madi's hand, she loved it

Petting the horses that were there for the shows

I love this picture, it makes my heart happy :)

runnin' with the chickens!

Kris loves chickens and has plans for a chicken coop at home

Indian Ladder had a display for the orchard. Another place we visit a few times a year.

Having fun in the hay maze

Of course, the RIDES!!!

Madi loves them too now

Havin' some greasy fair food, of course we can't skip that! :)

I have been without a phone now for a few days and honestly, I don't miss it. Is that strange? My phone broke and I have 1 month left on my contract. Let me give you a little back round. I did not have a cell phone until 2 years ago. My husband surprised me with an iphone. While I loved the gesture, and it was convenient to text or call when I needed to, the $106 bill always made me cringe. I can think of so many other ways to spend $106 and a cell phone isn't one of them. I was on the lowest minute plan they offered (450 mins) and I ALWAYS had more than 1000 rollover minutes! My family is insisting I need a phone and I can understand their reasoning. I think I'm going to get an "unlocked" phone and just do a $25 plan from Virgin Mobile or Straight Talk. It will allow me 300 mins and unlimited texting and Internet use. Do any of you use this type of service?

I also deactivated my Facebook account. It was for a few reasons, but nothing really big. I feel FREE for some reason. I think I just like the "unplugged" feeling. Who knows maybe I'll go back, but maybe not. I miss being able to text my favorite southerner whenever I want. But other than that I can't think of reasons I love it. I'm not much of a tv watcher, I probably watch an hour of tv every month or so. I make up for it on the computer, that I am sure of! Since when have we as a society need to be in constant communication? Maybe I'm just behind the times........

XOXO

I'm alive and a sneak peek :)

2011-08-14T19:11:00.003-04:00

Yup, I'm guilty, GUILTY of pretty much abandoning this blog for a few months! Not only was I busy setting up house here on the new home-front. But Blogger has been making me crazy for months as well. Is anyone else having the commenting problem? I try to comment on blogs, it makes me sign in, I see my dashboard, go to comment again and it makes me "anonymous" Can you say FRUSTRATING?

Anyway, it's been a very busy and fun summer here! We have had our favorite Southerners here already. Just wouldn't be summer without them. :) Then we had summer camp, horse camp and a few more activities to go. A day trip here and there.

Note * before front door was stained....

We also landscaped.... however, that deserves a post of its own!!! When I say "we" I mean, John and I, no other help. Luckily we work well together!

I have been decorating and feathering our new nest. I'm the type of person that I can only do these things while I'm feeling creative. I simply cannot force it. I'm all or nothing.

So here is a sneak peek of the keeping room, which is right off the kitchen. This room has functioned like I imagined it would, I can't tell you how that makes me SO HAPPY!

I have learned this.........

It's hanging in my kitchen and it is so very true!

I promise to NOT go as long inbetween posts, promise!!! pinky swear!!!!
XOXO

What I have been up to......

2011-05-05T00:00:00.002-04:00

I know, I know, I have been bad and haven't shown any pictures of the new house. Here is a tease of the kitchen cabinets! ;) I got my new riding boots and they are like BUTTA! Very soft and NO break in time! I did my first show last weekend and was Reserve Champion! I think I uploaded the video (I hope!) I am hopefully showing this week in the St Clement's horse show in Saratoga. Can you say EXCITED????? I feel like a kid again!

I'll be back, with house pictures, I PROMISE!!! :)

First show in 14 yrs!!!

ps- don't get sea sick! Kris videoed this with my iphone! My little helper was with me all day!

XOXO

Playing house

2011-04-04T11:53:00.002-04:00

Madi's cute toes :)

It's official. I am playing house here and having a B L A S T ! ! ! The first week we were here we unpacked bedrooms minimally, unpacked the kitchen (as best as we could) and then concentrated on getting the old house ready to close. I will let you know that it was overwhelming to get it all done in that little bit of time.

But it has been so GREAT to settle in here. Well, settle is a funny word. Does "settled" mean unpacked, decorated and all done? Or does settled mean home? For us right now it means home!

Mainly because we don't have all our furniture yet, my sofa is being reupholstered as we speak. It will go in the family room. We did buy a new one for the keeping room and it was delivered today, more pics to come. Taking it slow and doing things little by little. Like deciding if this picture should go above the mantle.......

Or one of these instead?

You get the idea! :)

XOXO

Last Day

2011-03-22T18:32:00.001-04:00

For years I thought about this day.

I know I have been non-existent, but been so very busy. Our house sold after being on the market for 3 1/2 weeks.   I feel so very blessed that it has sold and so quickly in this terrible economy.   However, I can't help but feel so bittersweet when I see this home (not just a house) empty. Empty........

So many memories made here, so many firsts.   First visit from Santa, first steps were taken here,first words were said here.   First place to realize that one of my sons was not developing at the same rate as his twin and to understand why. First place to overcome the sadness and embrace his diagnosis and realize it was a blessing to us all. First place we took the training wheels off. First visit from the tooth fairy.   First place to swing on a swing set, play in the sand and stay outside from dawn till dusk in the summer.   First place to play in the neighborhood and first place to be shunned when someone else had "cooler" toys.    First place to bring home baby sister.   First place that our love has grown beyond what I ever imagined.

It's hard for me to say goodbye.  But I know that there are many more memories to be made.   Please come with us for the ride, will you?

XOXO

Little by little....

2011-01-25T09:54:00.003-05:00

Things are moving right along, and honestly, it's almost done! They are staining and polying the floors this week so we have to stay out until it dries. Then, the kitchen goes in. Then a re-roll of paint (walls and trim), the counters , plumber and some "punch out" things (aka-things that get forgotten or need fixing) and we are DONE!

This part had me biting my nails a bit. I ordered this out of a stair parts catalog and while I could picture it in my head, I was HOPING it was going to turn out that way! The stair guy said no one has ever ordered iron newels from him nor the panels. So I had no pictures to see if I liked it or not. Just a drawing of all the parts in a catalog. I'm very, very happy with how it turned out! :)

Progess so far..............

sneak peek of the mudroom!

And this leads to the basement. We opted to keep it open and put a doorway at the bottom of the stairs. This of course was before it was stained. And he had just put it all in , hence the sign!

XOXO

Happy Birthday Johnny and Kris!

2011-01-13T10:15:00.000-05:00

My boys turned 10 on Saturday, TEN! I can't believe it. I can't believe that a decade has gone by since we became parents to these beautiful boys.....

Posing on the kitchen floor for a quick picture!

And best of all, blowing out candles with our family!!!

Can you tell the boys like wrestling?!?!

XOXO

Happy New Year! (and a book review)

2011-01-02T12:50:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year!!! I hope everyone has had a wonderful Christmas season and New Year. Ours was definitely different, but we enjoyed it just the same!

Now for my book review. I just got done with this book and I think everyone with kids or grand kids should read this book. Despite the title, it is not a Christian book. It is one mothers view of juggling it all, career, motherhood, activities and etc. And her active role in learning how to say no and limiting all the things that impact on our true quality time with the limited amount of time we have in our kids lives.

I have done some of what she is talking about in the book before I even started reading it.

I think even if you don't agree with everything in this book you will still enjoy it! Parenting is HARD work!!!

It's a very easy and quick read.

I just ordered her second book The Gift of an Ordinary Day. I believe this is "part 2" of her life when her kids are getting older, teenagers and etc. And I can't wait to read it!

Things are moving right along at the new house. This week the railings are going in and I think they are starting to stain the floors. Will be sharing pictures soon!

XOXO

Getting closer and closer...

2010-12-30T01:23:00.000-05:00

I really hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! We really tried to enjoy it as much as we could knowing it would be our last one in this house! Of course 48 hours later an agent wanted to show our house to someone, so the stress is back on! UGH! But choosing to look at the bright side, tomorrow will make two showings since Christmas! Hallelujah!

Here are some updated pictures of the house! Truth be told, they are a lil old! I didn't mean for that to rhyme either! But this is what I have to show for today!

The mudroom, which was originally supposed to be the laundry room. That is until I moved the laundry upstairs and made this little space the "landing pad" of our new home. Hopefully our little cubbies and cabinets (those shelves will be covered by doors soon!) will keep us organized. And below the benches are shelves for shoes! YAY!

This is a shot of the coffered ceiling in the Study. This will be a multi-use room for our books, games and piano. It is directly to the left when you walk in the front door. Small room but cozy and will serve its purpose.

This is a shot of the Master bathroom shower! Still have to decide on a
shower door! Nothing like waiting until last minute!

This is the brick detail in the keeping room fireplace. Our awesome mason used the same stone he used outside along with the same brick. He cut them in half to make them the same depth as the stone. He made me a herringbone hearth too! Vince, you ROCK!

Here is the keeping room fireplace all completed! I stained and sealed the mantle myself. Everyone thought I had made a mistake when they opened the box for the mantle. But I wanted a rustic, non-fussy mantle in here. Hope it works like I thought it would in my head!

And the beams in the keeping room that our very talented carpenter made! I originally was going to go with real re-claimed barn wood. But the sheer weight (and price) scared me. So he made them out of pine and we stained it and voila, beams!

Here is the family room fireplace which is not painted yet, but will be soon! They are starting on painting all the trim tomorrow! The wood floors area all in and ready to be stained. Things are moving right along!

Those of you that are still reading, in spite of my very long absences, THANK YOU! I have been spreading myself very thin lately, but I think we are on the home stretch of this!
XOXO

Merry Christmas and prayers for a friend!

2010-12-24T11:41:00.001-05:00

I had every intention tonight to show off my baking and write the so many things I am thankful for this Christmas.

After having an EXTREMELY crappy day. And trying to make up for it, to my poor children who sadly were at the brunt of it. I sat down to regroup and catch up on my blog reading, but click on facebook first. I then found out that my dear friend Edie from
Life in Grace had a horrible house fire a couple of days ago. While I do not know all the details, I do think they lost everything. But they all got out and they are safe. I am asking my blog friends to please keep Edie and her family in your prayers. If you haven't visited her blog before, please do. She is loving, caring, funny, Christ-loving, southern girl, who can bake up a storm!!! I am praying for her and hoping she posts to let us know how they are doing! Again, please keep them in your thoughts and prayers!

We are hosting Christmas Eve dinner and then spending Christmas Day at my parents house. So I am leaving you with this message......

Ready to show!

2010-12-12T02:57:00.001-05:00

I realize that I should probably be posting our Thanksgiving pictures, or better yet our Christmas decorations (which leave A LOT to be desired this year). But instead I'm patting myself on the back for whipping this house into somewhat of shape so we can list it! Two weeks ago on a Sunday morning, I got a phone call before I even got out of bed that someone wanted to see our house that WEDNESDAY!!! Can you say S T R E S S E D out? We almost KILLED ourselves cleaning and touch up painting. I wouldn't say it was DONE, done, but good enough. They came to look and turns out our house was too small for them! Oh well, hopefully it will be perfect for someone once we actually get it on the market!

Things are moving right along at the new house. The wood floors are done upstairs (but not stained, just down) and they are coming this week to lay the downstairs. The lights are going in at the same time. And then the floors will be finished and we will put the kitchen in and be DONE!!! Can you imagine? DONE? Oh my!!!!!

Anyway, I thought I would share some pictures of the "finished" product. I know there are rooms I probably have never posted on my blog. Just realizing that!

If you would like to move to Upstate NY, I have a nice place to show you! :)

Here we are in the foyer, from the the kitchen looking at the front door

If you walk in my front door and look to your right, this is the study

Doesn't normally look this dark, I just refuse to use flash!!

And walk back the study and look to your right again and it is the powder room (aka 1/2 bath)

If you are walking in my front door and look to your left, you will see the living room

And then beyond the living room is the dining room

Standing in the dining room doorway to the kitchen, this is your view to the kitchen and family room

Family room , you all have seen the kitchen and if not, there are photos HERE :)

View from the back of the family room into the kitchen

Extremely crappy shot of the laundry room!

Working our way upstairs from the foyer

View of the upstairs hallway from the stairs

Madi's room which is to your left of the above sideboard

The main bath which is the kids bath

One of my favorite rooms in the house, Johnny and Kris's room, SO cozy! A lil cluttered, but we like it that way. ;)

View to the Family room from the overlook right outside of J&K's room

4th bedroom doubling as the toy storage room!

Master bedroom, walking in the door

Walking into the master bathroom

I know the single bowl and vanity vs. double bowls will hurt us for sale reasons.......

The view going back downstairs!

Hope you enjoyed the tour! Would love any input on anything you think I should do to make it more "appealing". I have TRIED like heck to de-personalize. That is much harder than I thought...... Please pray for a quick sale!!!! :)
XOXO

Still here, barely and PLEASE vote on the last picture!

2010-11-19T00:20:00.002-05:00

Wow, apparently I am very bad a multi-tasking! Worse than I originally thought!

Halloween was much fun, as my darlin' husband LOVES Halloween! I had fun creating and assembling my boys and husband's costumes! I had to get creative because they don't sell costumes for the things my kids want to be (ever, lol). But with a bottle of fabri-tac in hand, I did it! And they all loved the end result! We went over to my sisters house. She had a little party and we trick or treated together. More wonderful memories being made! :)

The Incredible Hulk!

Kane and The Undertaker ~ Brothers of Destruction! And a little zebra they found :)

The house is coming along! All painted right now. Tile is going in (pictures this week!), and looking good! Ordered stair parts, that had me literally in crazy mode. I think I'm on decision overload!!!!!!

Wall color a little distorted from the flash... was using my old camera!

My cousin's VERY talented husband made board and batten shutters for all the windows. They are clear cedar that will be solid color stained.

Now, pretty please with sugar on top, tell me what color shutters you see on this house????????

Originally (many many moons ago) I wanted black, I don't think so anymore. Plus you will not see the hardware on them and the hold backs. Olive green? Brown? Pink? (JUST KIDDING). I really need your help!

Garage doors and more progress!

2010-10-28T10:58:00.000-04:00

Things are busy, busy here! I have been assembling Halloween costumes! And also on my steady clean out of this house that I need to sell! (someone needs to actually put it on the market to do this!) I'm not a multi-tasker. Well, I can do it, but I'm not very good at it. So if I'm multi-tasking, it means whatever I am doing is certainly not my "best" work...... I digress....

Anyway, here are some progress pictures!

Kris standing in front of the door that leads into the garage. I am in the kitchen and he is standing in the mudroom.

I am standing in the eating area of the kitchen looking into the kitchen area...

Standing in the Family room looking at the foyer, upstairs hallway...

Standing in the foyer and looking at the family room....

A shot of the odd shape of the master bedroom, but I like it :)

The garage doors are steel but look "stained" and we are going to go with a very similar color for the front door.

The exterior is almost complete! YAY! Still need to add the columns and shutters. My cousins husband is making the shutters for me. So those might not be added until spring. Board and Batten!

Chimney cap is on!

Oh and I figured I'd add a shot of our new neighbors!! They are always walking around our house checking us out! :)

Update, the interior walls are painted! Will post those pictures soon too! :)
XOXO

The pumpkin patch, kids' activities, house decisions and a broken space bar!!!

2010-10-20T16:24:00.000-04:00

Has it really been 12 days since I have posted????? This post may have to be shorter than planned because my cute, blonde lil darlin' has ripped the space bar off my keyboard one too many times and I am developing carpel tunnel syndrome from how HARD I have to press it to get a space between words!! Orelseitlookslikethis...........

Fall ball is over, swimming (indoors) is in full effect! I have been taking 3 riding lessons a week and loving.every.minute.of.it! I feel my body getting stronger and it feels OH SO GOOD!

I met with the painter today and went over the paint selections!! House is drywalled and taped!! Pictures to come! Still making myself crazy with little decisions like 4 or 5 hole faucets....3 holes for the bridge, 1 for the sprayer and whether or not to add the 5th for the purified water if it's inside thefridge dispenser.... you know, little mundane decisions like that that make you CRAZY!

My sister and I,with a bunch of other moms went to a pumpkin patch nearby and had SO MUCH FUN! We have never been to this one before and it fantastic! We will definately go back next year!

Hope you are all enjoying this TOO short season!
XOXO

love

2010-10-06T00:02:00.000-04:00

My heart is feeling lots of love!

I am blessed!

Lot's going on at the homefront! Will post some more progress tomorrow!
XOXO

Fireplace part 2, chimney love!

2010-10-03T23:23:00.000-04:00

Lately I have been a wee bit obsessed with herringbone pattern. And you will see this repeat in my upcoming posts as I reveal more of the house finishing. I didn't realize it until I starting looking at my notes and seeing the "pattern". And I mean that in more ways than one. Not only is the herringbone a pattern in itself, but also the pattern of ME using it in various places throughout the house. So it started on the chimney!

I am so thankful for our mason who has been a saint (literally) with all my descriptions and hair-brained ideas. He has basically gone off my "words" and made it the way I wanted it. Bless his heart, seriously!

So here is a bit of the chimney. They still have to finish the top and put the clay chimney pot on. But I figured I'd show you the progress so far!

XOXO

Homemade Guacamole and some randoms!

2010-10-01T08:26:00.003-04:00

If you like guacamole, I PROMISE you will LOVE this! And you will NEVER EVER buy it again! I got this recipe from my cousin's husband and he's a fantastic cook!

3 avocados
2 medium vine-ripe tomatoes cut fairly small (for color and taste)
1 very small (or half of a regular size) onion chopped fine
1 garlic clove pressed
1/2 lemon for juice
salt to taste

pair with Stacy's Pita chips ( my new weakness) or tortilla chips and ENJOY!!! :)

Just a few pictures of fall in our neck of the woods. I haven't taken many, but plan to take more photos. I can't believe today is October 1st! Love this time of year!

Kris had a "fun run" at school and he finished great! Of course we all cheered him on!

And here is a typical lazy Saturday morning with Johnny and Madi on the sofa! So cozy! I crave and long for these days, but also know how short they are. Enjoying them little while we can!

Linking up with Home and Family Friday's and Feature yourself Friday's! Come and joing the fun! :)

Happy Friday! :)
XOXO

One brick at a time......

2010-09-29T00:05:00.000-04:00

The job site has been humming with activity! I have snapped some pictures of the new brick and stone work. And this exterior has scared me since the beginning. Because picturing something in your MIND is A LOT different than explaining it to someone and trying to find pictures and draw it. My stomach has been in knots. Our other mason didn't end up doing the work. And our new mason is WONDERFUL! Turns out, I went to school with him from 6th grade to 12th! And he has done EVERYTHING we wanted, almost like he has read my mind. It has been a real blessing and feels like a weight lifted off me to have this almost DONE!

And here is where I REALLY white knuckled it, picking out STONE color to coordinate with the brick. Hopefully by adding the brick detail in the stone. It's gonna be ok!

The copper flashing between the brick and roof has to come off and be re-applied...... The mason was supposed to do it and the roofers went ahead and did it and did it WRONG. Luckily it was caught and will be fixed!

The metal roofing has been put on as well. It is "copper" but just color, not actual copper. So some of the items like the vent, the cupola and valleys on the roof are real copper and will "patina" but the roof will not. I hope it ends up looking ok. This was SOOOOO nerve-wrecking!!

Love this vent! I ordered it online when I ordered the cupola!!

Here is the front so far............. Hopefully it will be done early next week!

The electrical and plumbing rough in is all done. Thursday the insulation will be put in. And then we are onto drywall! Very exciting around here! So here are a few pictures of the progress so far! It's been very dreary here, so photos aren't too great!

XOXO

Answered Prayers

2010-09-25T02:09:00.000-04:00

I finally got a call from my doctor this morning that the MRI results came back perfectly normal! Praise the Lord! I tried to keep myself busy the last few days. But last night I had a little "freak out" moment of not knowing, couldn't sleep and letting my mind get the best of me. So I was VERY happy when I called this morning and got a call back within an hour that all was well!

Thank you ALL for your emails, prayers and thoughts! It really was so special to me! I want to thank Kimberly , Loretta And Sheri (who emailed me) for sharing their stories with me! It was so nice to know I was not alone! I'm just so relieved that it was just an ocular migraine and nothing serious at all!!! But it got me to the doctor and to my eye doctor for an eye exam, something I have been putting off TOO long. Sometimes we need a little kick in the butt for those things!

Here was Madi the morning I left to have my MRI. Mema was holding her in the window so she could wave goodbye!

And I found these two riding the gator later that night at Mema and Papa's house! They will be SO happy when we finally move and can walk here every.single.day!

I'm so thankful God has blessed me with these three beautiful children!!!

Happy Saturday!!
XOXO

Keeping room fireplace

2010-09-21T09:05:00.001-04:00

I have always wanted a wood burning fireplace. But I have always heard and read how inefficient they are and how they can actually suck heat out of the house instead of heating it. So needless to say I have always had a gas fireplace with a blower. And don't get me wrong, these are EASY to use and no mess. you basically flip a switch, flip another switch to turn the blower on and within a few minutes you have a roaring fire with heat! And no logs, no ash and no mess.

However it still hasn't quenched my desire for a wood burning fireplace. Until I found this fireplace, which is a Napoleon. It's basically a wood stove, but a fireplace "look" is what I gather from reading about it until my eyes crossed! One log burns up to 9 hours! So it's definitely efficient. And you can hook heating ducts into it to heat your house. And if you are using it as your main source of heat (we are not) you can buy the appropriate size fireplace for the size house you have. Pretty cool!

I love the wrought iron handles and the arched top of it. I have a thing for arches. You will be able to see that with me saying a word as you see the house finished!

We did put a gas fireplace in the Family Room, which is not completed yet, but I'll be sure and show you it when it is done!

Thought I would show you the latest addition! Our framing and electrical inspection is tomorrow, so insulation and drywall are next! Exciting!!!

On another note, I am having an MRI tomorrow morning and if you could, please say a prayer for me! Thank you :)
XOXO

A day filled with firsts, fun and fear!

2010-09-18T01:15:00.004-04:00

All week we have been anticipating Madi starting her VERY first day of preschool. And when I say preschool, it is one day a week for 2 hours... Not really "school" so to speak, but a nice place for Madi to play with other children her age. And that means Mommy gets a whole 2 hours to herself!

Well, I have been talking about doing something for ME for quite awhile now, but never seem to get down to doing it.   So I decided that when Madi goes to preschool I am going to ride horses again.    I rode competitively when I was a child, teen and adult. Before children! I haven't been on a horse in 13 yrs.   But honestly, it's like riding a bike and I was jumping by the end of the lesson!   I had to take a few breaks, because even though my legs were pretty tight still, I was OUT of breath! I was huffing and puffing after being in a 2 point (you are out of the saddle and supported by your legs) in just two times around the ring.   Then I got a shooting pain in my head but it went away quickly and I was fine.   I just over did it a little bit, but when I took the break, I felt fine after.   I'm sure I'll need a cane tomorrow, but it felt OH so good!

John picked up Madi for me and brought her to the barn.   We took pictures with my iphone but it was so dark they came out pretty bad. Madi LOVED the horses, I see a future equestrian! :)    She was SO excited and kept squealing with delight, I SEE HORSEY!!   It was so cute!

We finally left to go to lunch, the three of us.   We went to one of our favorite homemade bagel shops.   I stood in line while John washed his and Madi's hands and got a table for us. While I was standing in line, I noticed my eyes felt like someone had taken my picture with a BRIGHT flash.     I wasn't quite sure what happened and thought it was the fluorescent lights in the shop.   I ordered and paid and it still wasn't going away. In fact, it was getting worse.    Now it was hard for me to focus.   I sat down and told John that I thought something might be wrong. He must have thought I wasn't serious because he was eating his lunch and cutting up Madi's sandwich.    The fluorescent lights were now making the flashing SO bright and I couldn't focus on anything inside. I got up to go outside and told him I would be right back. When I got outside it wasn't much better.   I sat in my truck for a minute and closed my eyes, but I could still see this flashing. Now I was starting to get extremely nervous because it was now getting so bad, I knew I couldn't drive.    All these crazy thoughts were going through my head! Was I having a stroke?    Was I going to die any second from an aneurysm?   Was I going to get my boys off the school bus today? I knew that I had NEVER expereienced ANYTHING like this before.   Then I remembered back to the riding ring when I had the shooting pain in the right side of my head.   Now these, I have had before and while they do scare me when they happen, nothing ever happens afterward so I ignore it. Probably stupid.     But remembering back to the pain in my head, I start getting EXTREMELY panicked and walk back inside and inform John that he needs to take me to the ER.   I get in his truck, he straps the baby in and I immediately started crying. I am thinking all these crazy thoughts, telling him how much I love him and the kids and I just want to be with them. I'm praying through this and trying to keep somewhat control because I don't to scare Madi.    Hard to do when you think you are on death's doorstep.

We go to my physicians office (which is next door to the hospital) and they are on lunch so the door is locked.   John had already walked up to the door and was back by the other door when he saw and nurse and told her what was happening.   My Dr (who is also a friend of my father) came out immediately to get me.   The flashing was slowing down. Ironically, my doctor has had a brain bleed (aneurysm) the same kind Brett Michael's had. So he immediately asked me about the head pain. He asked me on a scale from 1-10 what was my level when it happened with 10 being the worst. I said well it was not constant, but when it happened it was probably a 6 or 7. He said, well I'm pretty confident that if it was a brain bleed you would have felt like someone was hitting you in the head with a baseball bat. I then explained in great detail what happened.   By this time I was feeling back to normal with the exception that my blood pressure was probably triple what it normally is.    He said, I'm pretty sure you had an Ophthalmic (Ocular) Migraine. I had NEVER heard of this before.   He still set me up for an MRI and another follow up appointment with him, and told me to Google Ophthalmic (Ocular) Migraine when I got home. So I did. And I was reading thinking, yes this is what happened then I saw the little "movie" picture of what it looks like and that is EXACTLY what the flashing spot looked like, but SO badly I couldn't see through it.

Please take a look for yourself HERE Make sure you scroll down to see the "movie" on the right.

Has anyone ever had this? Were you as SCARED as I was the first time it happened?

I'm sorry this has gotten so long and God bless you if you are still reading this! But I needed to write it all out, as I am still processing it.   I am VERY thankful that this is NON life threatening. But it literally scared me half to death and was another LOUD reminder of how we need to think of each day as a gift! Tomorrow is promised to no one.

I pray every single day. But today I prayed harder and I can't even begin to explain the comfort I felt even when I was in full panic mode. I would start to panic and then pray and feel calmed. God is so good. Really.
XOXO

Fall, first day of school and other ramblings

2010-09-14T20:12:00.005-04:00

I'm struggling a little bit. Many of you know, I homeschooled Kristopher (who has PDD) last year. I had to pull him out of an inappropriate program. It just was not for him. So we jumped in feet first. And he came LEAPS and bounds from where he was. It was something both of us needed. Him to catch up per say and for me, it really taught me his learning style. If anything, it has made me a better advocate because I know what he is capable of, academically speaking. Which I could only guess before, but now I know. What a good feeling.

This is Kris getting on the bus the first day...

However, homeschooling a child with a disability isn't just days of teaching and being by yourselves.   We had twelve (yes 12!) therapy sessions four days a week.   I had twelve people in and out of my house every week and had to keep my then-almost- 2 yr old out of their hair for every one of them.

   Now with all that said, I would homeschool him again in a heartbeat. Kristopher is a VERY social boy and seems to really love his class so far. I met his teacher last year and insisted he go on a few visits in the classroom to make sure it was a good fit. And he really enjoyed it. And I had a VERY good feeling when I met the teacher. He seems like a wonderful teacher and really "gets" these kids. I'm not sure if it's a blessing or a curse, but my "gut" feelings always turn out to be right. When I have a bad feeling, it usually always ends in disaster.   So I'm praying that my gut is right again.

Johnny ready for his bus to come on his first day

Johnny has started school at the private school I visited last year and he is really enjoying his new school as well! It's extremely small and just what I was looking for. And the perk is, if Kris's current placement doesn't work out, I can homeschool him again and send him to the PIE (partners in education) program, which is a homeschool program, at the private school Johnny is attending.   So I am hoping and praying that having these plans in place works out for the best.

   I was in almost a full blown panic the week before school started. I couldn't sleep, eat and was basically a nervous wreck worrying about everything. Which did absolutely no good at all.   Let's just say I'm glad the first few days of school are over and I'm calm again. AMEN!

I started out feeling very guilty about this, but I am choosing joy.    Choosing to be happy about my decision instead of dread. Nothing is set in stone. And I had to keep reminding myself of that. And then it all came together.

The positive here is that it's FALL! My FAVORITE time of year!!!! And my wonderful Aunt Mary baked my husband a DELICIOUS apple pie! And we enjoyed it with vanilla ice cream last night! YUM!!!!!

Fall ball is in full effect. And my little catcher and batter (#22) is a good one! Johnny sure is a natural. We don't know where he gets it from! Certainly NOT us! :) Kris and Johnny both are going to start swim team in a few weeks. Cub scouts starts up again (twice a month) and of course piano (which we do year round). However in the midst of all this I am a HUGE believer in DOWN TIME, which is why I almost didn't let them join the swim team. 3 times a week seems like a lot to me. But they will try it the first day and then decide whether they want to commit or stay in their Saturday morning stroke refinement class. Either is fine with me! Kids need time to be KIDS! I know they thrive on structure. But their own "free" time is when they truly grow and learn, in my humble opinion.

Now last but not least, I get to spend my days with this lil one! She is loving being a mama to her dolls and "mom read a book" is her favorite thing to ask me these days. I sure am blessed to be these kids Mama. I pray I am doing the right things with them and asking God to lead the way!

I am linking up with Tuesdays Unwrapped at Chatting at the sky, come and join us!

XOXO

I think I'm in love......

2010-09-09T20:41:00.002-04:00

I have had two GIANT boxes in my living room for two weeks. So long that I started cleaning around them and stopped stressing that my current house has started to become the storage facility for the new house. Every couple of days I have to calm myself down from the fact that I have to get this place ready to sell. Which is very hard when you have BOXES and construction items all over the place......

But this.... This was SO worth it. I drove by the house two days ago and hadn't even noticed that the two GIANT boxes were out of my living room that morning.

I simply cannot stop looking at it. I cannot even TELL YOU how long I have wanted one of these. And to see it on top of my garage now? Well, it's just GLORIOUS! It's the little things, I tell you!

I LOVE the concave roof and the ROOSTER weathervane that REALLY moves with the wind!!! Apparently all the blonde dye is making me a REAL blonde, because I had no idea they actually moved! You learn something new everyday! :)

XOXO

Plumbing is done (rough in anyway) and Electrician starts Monday after a meeting with us tomorrow! YAY! Brick and stone get started the week after........

Joining Home and family Friday and Show and Tell Friday's, come and join the fun! :)

What a beautiful ending

2010-09-08T01:00:00.002-04:00

To this very fun summer we have had. What a nice day! Thanks be to God for blessing us with it. We started out playing in the park. Then we had a great time at my friends house. The kids swam, and paddled boated, and played on her 4 acre pond, which really looks like a lake! It's certainly hard to say goodbye to summer! But I do love fall! :)

The cheesecake was SO YUMMY!

Right before dusk, it was so hard to get them off the water!

1, 2 or 3?

2010-09-06T01:13:00.001-04:00

I have ALL my plumbing fixtures picked out and ordered EXCEPT my kitchen faucet and water dispenser. I have been going back and forth because of the number of holes drilled, two handles, one handle, soap dispenser or not. You know, the basic, drive.yourself.crazy stuff!

So I figured I'd ask the experts, YOU ALL!

I think I'm 99.9 % positive I want this bridge faucet with the sprayer. I just love it's shape and I have a "thing" for bridge faucets. Here are the contenders for the water dispenser..........

*Edited to add* this is a second dispenser for filtered water, so it will be right next to the one above! Thanks! :)

And that faucet with one of these pretties will be sitting on top of this sink......

So which one will it be? Cast your vote, pretty please with sugar on top!!!!

XOXO

Tell me your blog story....

2010-09-05T20:53:00.001-04:00

I have thought about blogging about this a few times. But never wanted to sound negative. Which I am not, but sometimes on email, text and NON talking formats things can be taken the wrong way. So please believe me when I say I am just very curious about this, NOT bashing or being negative! And I am not saying that no one should make any money off their blog! I am just curious why YOU blog! Thank you! :)

Lately I have seen a "shift" in blogging. Not all blogs, but a few that I have watched over the years evolve into something different, other than a blog, or so it seems.   And then there are still some that have stayed the same (thank you!). Do you see this too?

Maybe I should talk about why I started my blog to begin with. I love the idea of an "online" journal and since it involves making friends, I loved that too. I enjoy talking about things that are fun, going on in my life or important to me. In no particular order. Just sharing is what I enjoy.    I realized early on being a mother that real scrapbooking was entirely too time consuming. So when I started this blog and realized it is sort of a virtual scrapbook, that was the icing on the cake. I like to look back and see what was going on in that time of my life.   I started this blog over 3 years ago, but didn't start posting regularly until this past November.    Decorating is a big part of my life because I love and enjoy it. And I love that there are other women in blogland that share these same hobbies and likes with me.    Do you have friends in "real life" that just don't get the decorating thing? Enough said. :)

Maybe I've got it all wrong, maybe people do use blogging as a source of income?   There are a few blogs that are doing constant advertising. And I'm not talking about giveaways!      I understand that everyone could use a few dollars, I'm not knocking that, but I get the feeling that these companies are the ones making out, not the blog writer.   And yes, it's mostly on bigger blogs, but some of these bigger blogs aren't that personal anymore.    I'm not knocking people that get 75 comments to each post either, because when they are keeping it real on the blog, I totally understand it, they are getting feedback where it is due! I love seeing my fellow blog writers getting love from their AWESOME projects and posts!   Those aren't the ones I am talking about.

Just today I was reading a blog (that I normally do) and one of the commenters was complaining about the advertisements of the writer and immediately it became defensive. and she explained how long it takes her to write her posts, and all the time invested to size the pictures, center the pictures and all the techy stuff that it involves. And she just can't do it for free........      I guess what I wonder is, if it's so much work (for that person) why do it if you don't love it?

That is what made me wonder,  why do you blog? What motivates your writing? What do you like to write about? What do you like to "see" in blogville?   I do it because I love to share and look back. I also love all the wonderful friends I have met here in blogland!

XOXO

And for the record, I have been contacted by a couple of advertisers. I personally didn't want to do it. NOT that someone else shouldn't. I just didn't know how to mix it in with my mundane postings of my life! LOL I'm just throwing it out there! :)

What is the world coming to...........

2010-09-04T21:11:00.002-04:00

I bought cowboy boots and skinny jeans!!!!! I have wanted a pair of cowboy boots now FOR-EV-ER! But they were either too narrow (pregnancy) or just to pricey for my taste.

And the jeans, well, in my size are they REALLY skinny jeans???!!! When these jeans became popular again (remember the 80's???) I said NO WAY was I buying them. Well last night I caved in! I looked in Marshall's but couldn't find a pair that looked right. Believe it or not I found a pair in Target, they are the Converse brand and have the holes and all! I hope I am not "dressing too young". But thought they would be a fun addition to some of the longer shirts I have got recently and can wear my new cowboy boots and my Uggs with as well!

I have never been a slave to fashion, I have always bought and dressed in what I like. I used to spend all my money (in my late teens and early twenties) on clothes and had a new outfit every Friday night. Then I got married and became a mother, which is the best thing that's ever happened to me. However it's not the best thing that's ever happened to my closet, that's for sure! After realizing that I will probably NEVER EVER be a size 4 again, I have made an effort this year not to wear black yoga pants every-single-day and get dressed. I do most of my clothing purchases in my favorite consignment and thrift stores. But I do love TJ Maxx and Marshall's as well. And if I have a GC I will go to Macy's, which is NOT very often. But buying at thrift stores is a lot of fun and you can get such great deals on wonderful stuff!

Anyway, thought I would share my new 'duds! Have you caved? What are your favorites this season?

I'm linking up at A Few of my Favorite Things over at Laurie's!
XOXO

Everyday Minerals

2010-09-02T06:30:00.003-04:00

When my cousin Lori was here visiting, she showed me her new make up goodies. It's called Everyday Minerals. Now, I have always been a "drug store" make up girl. But in the last few years I have gotten totally addicted to MAC eye shadows, eyeliners and lipsticks. And even though it pains me to spend more on them, I still love them.

I was skeptical at first. When the Bare Minerals (essentials) craze came out, I tried it and it just wasn't for me. My skin always felt "dry", I'm not sure, just weird. And I have always used either tinted moisturizer or a powder for my "base". I never could get used to using liquid foundation, it just felt funny on me. But trust me, I NEED some coverage. Especially when I don't have a tan. And I'm starting to get some small ~~sun or age~~ funny spots and we aren't friends!

So I was apprehensive, but I took my cousins advice and jumped in feet first. I ordered the Everyday Minerals makeup, concealer, bronzer (and a lucent one for a lil shine) and eye shadows. I LOVE them! The "make up" feels like your wearing NOTHING and it covers wonderfully. You actually control the coverage. The concealer is powder as well and it covers fantastic! I ordered two full size eye shadows but ordered the collection "Utopia blooms" which has MANY (I forget exactly how many) eye shadows in the "try me" size. The try me size is going to last a LONG time. And they are CHEAP. The try me size is &2.50 and I think the regular size is $8.

I also ordered some of the brushes and really like them! I was hesitant because they aren't natural bristle but they feel like silk!

Oh and here is the kicker! Everyday Minerals products are..........

Another long-time favorite of mine is Lash Out mascara by Loreal. But I have used Voluminous and the newer True match Naturals and love these as well.

And I have recently tried Maybelline's Colossal and Falsie's and really like these too!

If you do end up ordering from Everyday Minerals, make sure you check out their promo or deals page. If you buy a certain amount of items you get your entire order 40% off! And usually get free items as well combined with the 40% off!

Well anyway, I thought I'd give you my review, for what it's worth! Love me some make up! :)
XOXO

Little by little

2010-08-31T11:11:00.001-04:00

We are moving right along with the house. Although we had a week of "outside" work and BIG things done, like our septic, power being hooked up and water. OH and let's not forget propane for heat and the heating and AC is in! Just have to hook up to the units. They have started plumbing this week and putting our fireplaces in, which I will take pictures of this week.

But I wanted to give a sneak peek of the garage door trim, the front door and our stairs that have been put in! It's moving right along again. Hopefully we will be doing electrical next week and then be ready for insulation!

Anyway, thought I would share! :)

I think we are going with steel doors that look like wood.......

The front door is in

Transom

Still needs railing

This part of the upstairs hallway will be "open" with just railing

XOXO

Exciting week

2010-08-28T10:19:00.003-04:00

We are down to the last 10 days or so of "summer" here. My boys did a new VBS at a church that is very close to where we are moving. And they LOVED IT!

Johnny, Kris and their cousin Jeana

Funny thing is, they were a little apprehensive to go. I basically found it and signed them up. Then I told them, you are going! Ever have a good feeling about something? This I had a good feeling about. The boys went everyday (and their 3 1/2 yr old cousin went with them in the preschool group) from 9am-12pm. What I really liked about how they grouped the kids was, they were different ages. It really had a different, but oh so positive dynamic! They were with one child their age and the others were mostly younger. The Theme of the week was "High Seas". They formed friendships, learned about God's word and learned some really great songs. I saw two boys who were a little shy at the beginning of the week, get more and more excited each morning. And everyday when I would come to pick them up at 12 noon, the most beautiful bells were playing in the steeple of the church. Always ending with "He's got the whole world in his hands" which made me tear up daily....

It is three churches that put this on. The Lutheran Church where it was held, The Reformed Church (directly in the lot behind it) and the Catholic Church down the street. I think it's wonderful they all work together to give these kids a wonderful week. Isn't that what we are supposed to do, help each other out? And so nice to see that they are. There is one person from each church that plans this every year, for 10 years now. And they do a great job!

Thursday there was an "ice cream social" after dinner and they were thrilled to go. Today was their last day of VBS, but made sure to tell their leaders (teens who were the group leaders) they would be at tonight's closing program.

This little Lutheran church that was built in 1901 (I think, I'm going by Johnny, I thought in the 1890's but I'm taking his word for it!) came ALIVE tonight with these kids! They had a slide show of pictures of the kids all week doing their projects, playing games, singing and having a great time. They sang the songs for us. It was just heartwarming! And to see my two boys come out of their shells like they did, just made my heart happy! They sang and stomped and hugged their friends and asked if they could come back next year. I love these kids with all of my being and thank God for giving them to me!

That is my Johnny right behind the first girl in front of the screen, Kris is in here, but can't find him!

I want to consciously live in the moment with them and enjoy every single minute with them. Because I know, firsthand how quickly it goes by. These babies of mine are 9, how did that happen? I'm so not ready for them to grow up. I need more time!

XOXO

Sidetracked

2010-08-27T00:04:00.002-04:00

Do you ever walk in to Target for bleach and spray'n'wash and walk out with this?

I have been eyeballin' all the vintage inspired jewerly I have been seeing in all the magazines and stores. I don't know about you, but I can't justify a $200 costume necklace from J Crew, even if it's so dreamy. I happened to be walking to the register when this clearance section caught my eye (near the scrapbooking stuff in case you want to check your Target!) and had to get some. Started out with the big birdie, then I couldn't leave the other stuff there. I figured I could make bracelets, necklaces and whatever else I wanted! I even thought embellishing a few lamps would be cute!

I was trying SO hard to be good, but couldn't pass this up! Do you ever get sidetracked like this? I'd love to know! :)

I'm joining the Favorite things Saturday's linky party at Laurie's! Come and join the fun :)

XOXO

Date Night!

2010-08-21T23:47:00.003-04:00

These two......

Plus this one, went over to Mema and Papa's house

Then I put this pretty bracelet on

And these cute earrings

And these adorable shoes (that I got for $3.99 at Salvation army, they are Kenneth Cole!)
Yes, my right big toe polish is chipped. Such is life! :)

And took a picture with Big daddy! On our very grainy 1.6 megapixel webcam. And you know what? I like it, smooths ALL the wrinkles and imperfections out. That dang D90 shows EVERYTHING. Good when your a toddler, child or teenager, not good when your 37!

And off we went to see Eat Pray Love. Which was very good.    In some ways I could identify with Liz.    I have been married before. And trust me, it wasn't pretty.   So it was hard to ever think you will "love" again. And when your NOT looking for it, you find it.   To make a long story short, John and I met about 12 weeks after I broke up with my ex. I did not, I repeat DID NOT want to date anyone at that time.    But he was sooooo nice. I let my guard down and went out with him. Much against my mother's urging NOT too. That is, until she met him. She fell in love as well.   We dated about 8 months before getting engaged and were married 14 months after our first date. In August we celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary.   If I didn't let myself fall in love again, I'm not sure where I would be.

   I am blessed with a man who loves me, makes me laugh, loves his children and is a wonderful devoted father.   He is loyal and is a caring, warm and emotional guy.   Even though he's tough as nails on the outside, he's my teddy bear!  I love you honey!

I thought I'd share a little piece of our night together. It's not often we are alone and we are both fine with that. But it was nice to have this little bit of time alone!    Baby girl is home with us now (fast asleep) but the boys are having a fun sleep over!

Linking up with Home and Family Friday's! Come and join the fun! :)
Happy Sunday!
XOXO

Making our mark

2010-08-20T13:57:00.001-04:00

Our garage concrete was poured about a week ago. We all went and put our hand prints and names. In true scatter-brain style we forgot the year and date! Oh well! I haven't taken anymore pics of the house because it doesn't "look" like anything has been done, but there have been many. This coming week is a quiet one because they are working elsewhere. But the week after they will be doing the plumbing and electrical (shortly after). Then the exterior will be starting to be applied! Exciting and as always I will keep you posted!

I am linking up at Feature Yourself Friday at Fingerprints on the Fridge, come and join the fun! :)

Have a great weekend! :)
XOXO

Smart shopping, Thrifty Gypsy style....

2010-08-17T00:01:00.004-04:00

During all the summer fun, we are plugging along with the house. We are doing some BIG items at the moment. We have power, the septic is in and we are officially hooked up to the water line. Three VERY important things. And to think my sweet man thinks that these are more important than picking door knobs.......
Oh and we have heat and air conditioning vents too, how could I forget that?

I have completed (kind of) my plumbing order. My half bath, turned into a 3/4 bath. I started getting scared because of the looks on every one's faces when I would tell them I took out a bathroom upstairs to make it a laundry room. I figured since I am the one cleaning the toilets, I'd like to stick to 3 toilets, and not 4! The house originally had a master and 2 hall baths upstairs. Now it has a laundry room UPSTAIRS (YAYAYAY), a master bath and a main bath. Just to give you the backround. Now, the former powder room has a 36 in shower in it, just in case. So now we have 2 and 3/4 baths. Yes I am redundant! :)

Well this 3/4 bath (Aka powder room) was giving me fits. It's not very big. About 6 feet long and I'm not sure how wide. But narrow enough where a regular depth was going to be tight on a vanity. Which then led to driving my poor cousin, husband and mother insane with looking at console sinks. Which are BEAUTIFUL. But OH SO PRICEY!! I almost ordered this beauty......

But my OH SO THRIFTY side just could NOT spend $1500 on this sink. I just can't. Especially when there are porcelain sinks for SO much less, but this one is fire clay. And this one was the size I needed.

That was of course until we walked into a new Lowe's they built near us recently. I was checking out washer and dryers and looked to my right and saw the bath department. So I strolled on over there and saw THIS beauty.....

Not only is it french, the right size and adorable. It comes with a stone top, sink and was only $398!!!! Now THAT I can live with! I found a faucet for around $70. These are the kind of things that make me SOOOO happy! The other sink was pretty, but the thought of spending that kind of dough on a sink. Well, it's just not me. It better clean itself for that price!

The Thrifty Gypsy strikes again! ;)

I'm linking up at Nifty Thrifty Tuesday's at Coastal Charm, come join the fun! :)

XOXO

Where do I begin.....

2010-08-12T04:07:00.003-04:00

I sit here wondering where to begin. Lori and Ali are home now. My house has that empty nest feeling that I hate so much. There is something to be said about having a houseful of laughter, family, love, craziness and a mess. My house is clean now, but I'd rather have a dirty house and all the fun we had....

Ok, I think my pity party is over. Instead of being sad, I will make myself be HAPPY for all the fun and memories we made. Lori and Ali come to visit almost every summer (for the last 4 or 5 yrs or so) and each year it's a very special time. And with each passing year, I appreciate our too little time together so much more. Lori and I are first cousins, our mothers are sisters. We have had a close sister-like bond since we were kids. And we never let the miles between us affect that. I'm so thankful that I have her in my life. She is a strong woman, who is beautiful, creative and always a ray of sunshine. And her daughter is becoming like her, which is so beautiful to see.

Our kids are only 3 weeks apart. When I found out I was pregnant with the boys, a few weeks later she called me to tell me she was pregnant too. It was so nice to share that with her. And now our kids are growing up making the bonds that we made as children!

We had two weeks of fun, laughter, good food, game playing, and SHOPPING!!! Did I mention that Lori loves to feather her nest like I do? If not MORE than I do? And we are both suckers for "family day" at the thrift store.

We took the kids and our other cousin to the lake where our grandpa had a camp in the 70's.   It brought back so many great memories. And reminded us how time just flies by.   I remember summers there with everyone like it was yesterday.   Staying on the beach all day, no sunscreen, no constant adult supervision and running around until it was dark out. Then the inside fun of hide and seek or playing in grandpa's workshop while the adults played cards. My grandpa worked at GE his whole life and this was his little slice of heaven and he deserved it.   And I'm so thankful he had this place for all of us to come together as family.
While it looks very different from when we were kids. SO SMALL compared to the huge ocean it looked like to us. It was still familiar and "our" place.   And our kids were now swimming in this lake that we once were.

Here we are all grown up. And knowing that our next "generation" are forming these same bonds is what makes this so beautiful.

And in true crazy style, we hit one HECK of an estate sale on the way home. Perfect ending to a perfect day!

This is Lori trying to stuff some stuff in the back of my truck!

Is this sign cool or what? Our kids told us we could be on American Picker's. Then another one chimed in to say "or Hoarder's" LOL!

I thought this was so pretty and photo related to boot!

Here is our clan at my oldest nephew's graduation party. I simply cannot believe this boy is 18 and going to college. It just blows my mind how fast time goes by! How blessed we all are.

And I'm ashamed to say this, but I gave this child a dum dums lollipop so she would WEAR THIS OUTFIT! There, I said it! That cupcake is yummy!

Here is our clan with my nephew Louie. His mother passed away almost 3 years ago. You can read her story here. It's hard to imagine she has been gone that long. And she is missed and loved by us all.

Ali, just being her beautiful self. So I took the chance to snap some pictures of her.

Thank you for reading and taking this emotional walk with me. I love my family and feel so blessed to have these times to share with them!

I am linking up to Home and Family Friday, come and join the fun! :)

And don't worry, I'll be back to the regularly scheduled posts of "help me decide" in no time at all! ;)

XOXO

2 week Holiday!

2010-08-01T23:15:00.000-04:00

And I am right smack in the middle of it! My cousin Lori and her daughter came to visit us last Saturday. We have been just REALLY having a great time! Laughing, eating, shopping, eating, swimming, eating, playing games, eating. You get the picture, LOL!

Oh and I learned something. When your putting your camera card in your computer to save the pictures, double, triple and QUADRUPLE check the file! Because POOF, all the pictures are gone! :( All the house pictures, Madi's birthday and too many more things that is really making me sad. However I am choosing to look at the positive and be THANKFUL that I have this blog and post pictures on here of our life. Because now I can save the ones I posted here and still make a nice summer photo book. How is that for making lemonade out of lemons?

Anyway, I digress.........
The kids are having blast and I plan to post some more pictures soon. But I had to show you some really fun things I have found at Sally's and Goodwill this week!

First is this red tole tray I got for 2.99, I was SO excited when I saw it sitting there!

Then I got this black one for 1.99 the next day! In case you don't know, I LOVE red and black tole ware!

Then I picked up this pretty magazine rack for 9.99. A little more than I usually spend, but it's in really good shape and I love this kind because it keeps the magazines straight and from curling. Yes, I know I'm nuts! :)

I couldn't resist this vintage Kodak camera with the case for $1.59!

Then I found this vintage 1950's Kodak Brownie movie camera with the case and all! $12! This will go in basement movie room in the new house. My husband already has a collection of movie posters he is going to put down there so I have been looking for some other goodies!

I have been a little reluctant to post because two of my blog friends have been heavy on my mind. Kristen passed away over a week ago and I was just shocked to read she had passed and my heart is aching for this beautiful family. And then I read about my good friend Jen and was really in a state of shock. It is such a tragedy and my heart just goes out to Jen, I wish I could drive there and comfort her. These situations make it hard to understand why bad things happen to such good people. I know it is all part of His plan, but still it is hard for us as humans to understand. So please keep these families in your prayers!
XOXO

Fresh from the garden

2010-07-23T00:03:00.001-04:00

Lately, I am just feeling blessed. It has nothing to do with our new home. It has more to do with the fact that my husband and I love each other entirely. We have three beautiful children. Make no mistake, life is not perfect. I have blogged about it before. But it doesn't HAVE to be perfect. I have three little human beings that are growing into wonderful people. And honestly, I'm just PROUD!

Today was "clash" day at camp. They were supposed to wear outfits that clashed, so I snapped a quick picture of them before they were out the door at 7:45 am! They have been having a great summer. When they got home today, Kris said to me "mom, there was a boy on the bus that looked sooo lonely, so I went and sat with him". He went on to say how GOOD it made him feel. I can't tell you how happy it made me!! My other son Johnny has such a kind, empathetic heart as well. To know that these two are learning lessons like this makes me so happy, proud and warm my heart!

Kris has special needs, which I have talked about before. He got hurt at camp yesterday, fell near the pool. So his counselor called me to let me know. She said he was fine and didn't cry.   Then she proceeded to tell me how he was having a wonderful summer and was such a good boy.    After hearing for years what is wrong with him, this again brought me to tears!

And Kris is so lucky to have Johnny, he looks out for him constantly! He watches over him (and his sister) like a mother hen.   And I tell him what a wonderful boy (and gift) he is !    I had to share this today. Because in our world, it seems like there are so many negative things. And I want to focus on the positive. I want to teach my children about the GOOD in the world.   I know there is good left, we just have to find it and pull it out sometimes.    Thank you for letting me ~~babble~~ share this!

Ok so onto the subject to my title! The garden! The garden has been through many ups and downs. Seems we have a little visitor (aka bunny!) who is feasting out there! So far he has eaten all the escarole, celery, kale and ALL my impatients, a geranium and some lobelia that was apparently trailing too low!!!   However.... we have been adopted by an older kitten!   This wasn't convenient because my hubby is HIGHLY allergic. But she was skin and bones when she found us and my boys have been feeding her and taking care of her ever since.   so needless to say she is an "outside" cat. I'm sure we will need her when we move into a middle of a FIELD! :)

Meet Chloe............

Because of her, we have herbs! And strawberries and some other goodies still growing. Seems Mr bunny is afraid of her! For good reason too because she has left a few "gifts" for us, a couple of mice and a bird........

Anyway, onto the herbs! I picked basil, tarragon and rosemary! I also picked some grape and cherry tomatoes. I'd like to tell you that the lettuce is mine, but Mr Bunny enjoyed that before we could! Oh and our strawberries have been producing great! We eat them raw or make smoothies daily!

And last but not least, Miss Moo moo! She picked out her own dress and shoes! I had her in something else, she revolted (I put my foot down) and while I went to my room she took it off and got this dress out of her closet. Me thinks I'm in trouble!!!!!!!!!

XOXO

Door hardware

2010-07-20T08:21:00.000-04:00

This subject has been on my mind, my google images and downright driving me crazy! I thought for sure I wanted Oil Rub Bronze, I have them now in my house and love that they show NO finger prints at all. We changed them out over a year ago from having bright brass that was pitting and showing everything.

However, when I started looking at the plethora of choices, my head started spinning. And I started second guessing myself. And when I start second guessing, then I know I'm in a downward spiral of comparison shopping and it doesn't end until I have made a decision! So I have come here to ~~beg~~ ask your help!

Ok so, the first ~~dilemma~~ choice is the actual handle. I'm 97% sure I want levers. I always love how "french" they look. I had them in my very first home and always wished I had them here. However, I am free to ~~drive you crazy~~ change my mind...

Ok, I'm 93% sure I want the first one (which is the elan scrolly looking one). I don't love the backplate on the birdcage one, but that can be changed (free of charge with your order). I do really like this reed and ribbon knob, but wonder if it's too "fancy schmancy" for my home...........

Ok, now onto finishes. Here is where I go back and forth, round in circles and back again........

oil rubbed bronze

french antique

Pewter

flat black

And here are the doors that they will be hanging on.........

I'd love to hear your feedback! Since I have driven my poor husband, mother and sister insane with this, I figured I'd let you all in on the ~~torture~~ fun too!

XOXO

Our girl is two!!!

2010-07-18T14:57:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday Madelyn Jovanna!

I can't believe our girl is two! It seems like yesterday this little blessing came into our lives. I loved every minute of being pregnant. And my boys loved watching their mama's belly grow with their new sibling! Truly a magical time.

She is an angel. She is a spitfire! She is curious and loves learning. She loves her babies and her shopping cart. She adores her brothers and wants to be included in everything they do. And they so graciously include her, always!
playing in our basement......

We started off with a gator ride at Mema and Papa's house.

(and no, I did NOT let them drive her around, LOL! just sat there for picture purposes!)

Then a party at home! We celebrated with our loved ones and had a great time!

Inbetween thunderstorms they enjoyed the bouncy bounce.

Daddy grilled some yummy food!

The first cake I made didn't quite make it........

But the second one was a delicious banana cake with pink frosting. Recipe courtesy of Old faithful.

Happy Birthday Madelyn Jovanna, we all love you SO MUCH! :)
xoxo

Roof and windows...

2010-07-14T00:22:00.001-04:00

They had started on our roof and put some of our windows in while we were away. And it's REALLY taking shape! I am still working on the kitchen, who knew it would take THIS long?!?!

This week is filled with appointments for fireplaces, bathrooms and finializing details for the kitchen. The kids are going to camp till noon everyday, so they are having a great time as well.

The days seem to FLY by. I have to remember to stop and smell the roses on this process. It's all or nothing. We are waiting or we are behind, no happy medium! But it's really going now! Next week the heating and AC will go in. Then plumbing and electrical. YAY!

Here are some progress pictures!

xoxo

Keeping room from the outside.......

Looking into the keeping room from the kitchen...

Looking into the kitchen standing in the keeping room...

Dining room window! YAY!

Madi, Daddy and Kris on the front porch...

Back view.....

Home Sweet Home!

2010-07-09T00:28:00.000-04:00

Yup, this is my house right now. Just keeping it real......

Just walked in from a week in Lake George with 18 family members! My parents usually host a 4th of July party, but this year they switched it up a bit. We decided to go camping (we do every year as well) on the 4th this year. What a week! We had a blast! We watched the fireworks on the lake. We celebrated my sweet nephew's 2nd birthday.

Getting ready for fireworks...

All of us overlooking Million Dollar Beach waiting for fireworks!

Madi, horsing around with her cousin!

And these pinata pictures are fogged because it was about 102 degrees at NIGHT with a heat index of a million, LOL! But we still had a great time! I'm glad to be home, but I'm reliving in my mind what wonderful memories our kids have of this. I hope they remember it forever!

Madi, sipping a Lemonade on a HOT day on the Mini Ha Ha boat Ride!

Washing down those yummy Doritos her cousins were sharing!

I will be doing a lot of this while I see what you all have been up to! I missed you all! Hope your week was great! :)

XOXO

Happy 4th of July!!!

2010-07-02T16:25:00.000-04:00

Thank you all for your very sweet compliments on my "house" post. We are all so excited and it's so nice to be able to share that with you all!

I hope each and every one of you has a very Happy 4th of July weekend!! We have lots of fun planned and will post some pictures next week!

Have fun and be safe!!!!
XOXO

Coming along....

2010-06-30T00:30:00.001-04:00

I have been holding back lately on showing new construction pictures. This is hard for me because I'm so excited I'd like to show a new picture everyday. Of course no one but ME would see what the changes were! But I thought if I waited a little longer between construction posts, the pictures could tell the story themselves.

I think the last time I posted pictures we had a hole with cement forms in the ground. Actually I think I showed the basement too. Well, the sill plate has been put on, sub floor over the basement, first floor and now second floor and setting trusses and working on the roof sheathing!! YAY!

I have been diligently making selections and having to make up my mind on things I have been wishy-washy with for way too long. And (on paper) it's all coming together!

I still can't believe it's ACTUALLY HAPPENING when I am standing there looking at it, or standing inside of it!

So without further a-do, here they are! Enjoy :)
XOXO

Before the inside walls were in

Johnny and Kris (in his very European swim trunks, lol) are standing near the FR fireplace

This is looking through the front door into the FR (it's supposed to be great room, but I like family room better)

Upstairs shot, courtesy of Kristopher :)

Roof trusses on our front "lawn", lol

Front view today!! YAY!

Another view today

Side view today showing the trusses being set and the roof sheathing going on!

Strawberry picking and some ramblings...

2010-06-28T08:20:00.001-04:00

Has it really been 6 days since I posted? Time FLIES! That is for sure. Last week my sister and I took our kids strawberry picking. What FUN! We actually picked cherries too. It was the perfect day for it and the littles were eating a buffet of strawberries. My older two and I made strawberry freezer jam and we have had the best PB&J's ever!

I have been feverishly meeting with kitchen people at two different places because we are pricing out two different lines. I feel like everytime I have it "set" I realize I forgot about something or the measurements weren't right for what I had in mind. I think working (and growing up) in the building industry my entire life has made this part SO much harder because I know the options and possibilities are almost endless, lol. However that comes with a price tag, that's where I need to rein myself in!

Anyway, I thought I would share a few pictures from our trip! Construction pictures to come! :)

And the winners are........

2010-06-22T17:38:00.001-04:00

Thank you all for participating in my celebration post! I am so glad to have met you all here in blog land!

Here is my assistant picking the numbers! He took his job very seriously and even closed his eyes, LOL. I wrote the papers with the number of comments on them, folded them up and had him pick!

DRUM ROLL!!!!!!!!!!

Annnnnddddd, the winner of the French Country Magazine goes to #20 Angie!!!!

And the little iron birdy goes to #6 Tara!!!!

And the Dream Cottage Gardens goes to #3 Kim!!!!

Congratulations to you ladies!! Thanks for participating, it was a lot of fun! I was so excited to see who he pulled from the bowl! You can email me at kritt17@aol.com with your mailing address and I will send these right out to you!! :)

And now we are going to have some popcorn to celebrate my 100th post and winners!! YAY!
XOXO

Celebration Giveaway and a big THANK YOU!!!

2010-06-19T14:07:00.002-04:00

I just want to give a big thank you for all that posted in helping me decide which island color I should go with. And your right, I should practice what I preach. And that is, what makes EACH of us happy!!   I think I have it narrowed down. And will meet with the kitchen girl this week and will update on that later!

Now for the Celebration Giveaway!    I am nearing my 100th post (today is 99) !!! And I have been thinking about doing a giveaway in celebration of MAKING IT to 100 posts! It took me three years to get to 100 posts, but I did it!   I started this blog back in 2007 and if you have read back there was some tough times and some great times as well.   This December I made it my priority to post regularly and I haven't looked back since. It makes me happy to share here.   And while I'm not a "big" blog, I love the warm and cozy friendships I have made and hope to make more!    See in my "real" life I don't have many friends that share my love of decorating and gardening, but here there is an abundance of ladies who LOVE it like I do here in blog land!

So instead of one giveaway, I have decided to do THREE giveaways! One because I like odd numbers, lol and two because the three things can represent three years!

So here are the prizes!

All you need to do is comment on this post so I know you would like to be in on the drawing! You can share it on your blog, or just simply email it to your friends who would like to join in the fun as well! I will be posting the 100th post and also the winners on Tuesday so please check back to see if you have won!

Thank you ALL for fun, friendship and support you all have given me!
xoxo

We interrupt thing for Thursdays to bring you.....

2010-06-17T09:53:00.002-04:00

I need help! I had planned on doing my Thursday thing. But I am in the middle of trying to decide on kitchen stuff and CANNOT make up my mind!!!

My dilemma is that I cannot decide between having the island the same color as my cabinets, which will be off-white, possibly glazed or distressed or both, see a theme of uncertainty going on here? I can't decide on doing the island the same as the perimeter or doing another color or possibly a stained island.

So here is the perimeter (I think)

And here are the choices for island color and finishes like vintage and glaze aren't set in stone, just pictures!

Pimento with charcoal glaze.

Sage vintage (distressed) with glaze

Midnight vintage

Sable with charcoal glaze

I would LOVE to hear your opinion! I am making myself crazy with this decision. One way I think stay safe and do the same and in another way I think be daring and do it different so it looks like a piece of furniture (with legs of course, lol). I think I have picked a door style which was a whole other ball of wax!

Please help a girl out! If you never have commented before, PLEASE DO, I need all the help I can get! :)
xoxo

Here goes nothing!

2010-06-14T02:30:00.003-04:00

Let me start off by saying that I have been looking at exterior lighting until my EYES have crossed! Seriously, it's been ~~months~~ weeks that I have been looking at outdoor lighting. I think I have FINALLY decided on what I will purchase for the new house.

See, as you all know, I'm cheap. The problem has been, when I DO find something I like it's like $700 for ONE light. And we all know that doesn't fly with me, lol. Nope, not even if I could, I wouldn't. Well maybe the gas lanterns I saw I might...... I digress! I also like BIG lighting outdoors. So that was another one of the stipulations of the lights I have looked for. These are on the "fancy" side, but I think they are the perfect thing to dress it up a little out there. And the prices are TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE. So I need to snap them up quickly!!!! I love acanthus leaves..........

garage

Porch

lamp post

So what do you think? Yay? Nay? Wonderful? Or what am I thinking?? LOL! Thanks for coming along this crazy ride with me! I still need to take pics of the siding samples with the brick and roof and door. Hopefully this week! Phheewwww!

One more thing...... we meet with the framer tomorrow morning, and he's starting TOMORROW!!! WOOO HOOOOO!!!!!!!! :)
XOXO

I have a thing for... (Thursdays)

2010-06-10T02:20:00.000-04:00

I have been thinking about doing "I have a thing for" on Thursday's. I am ~~blonde~~ not computer savvy so I don't quite know how to do a linky party yet. I thought it would be fun to share what we have a "thing" for! You will soon see that I have a "thing" for A LOT of things!!! But I would love to know what YOU all have a thing for as well! Please tell me or link me to what you have a thing for. Or maybe one of you tech savvy bloggers can help me figure out how to do a linky party!

Anyway, back to my "thing". This week it's Roosters!!! I have a thing for ROOSTERS! Here are some of mine! :)

XOXO

Prayers for Kristen!

2010-06-08T23:00:00.000-04:00

I have been following this family's journey for a few months now. And Kristen is a special, MIRACLE girl for what she has been through. Tonight I read her mom's latest post and know that Kristen needs all of our prayers. Please visit her here and let them know you are praying or sending good thoughts to them. They really need our support!

I must say that in the beginning I started blogging for almost a "scrapbook" type journal. But the friendships I have made and am still making is what makes blogging the most fun and meaningful! Love to you all!
xoxo

A few fun finds and freebies!

2010-06-07T00:44:00.000-04:00

WOW, say that 3 times fast! LOL! It has been one of those weekends that went by in the BLINK of an eye! I have been busy making some decisions on the new house and it's making my head spin, lol.

We hit a garage sale and they were closing up shop so everything was free! I'm so happy I have a husband that likes to "junk" right along with me! We always look for old metal lawn sprinklers while we are out and we found one. We have a collection, we just like them and we do use them too, LOL. And also found this cute little green chair, records and two beautiful embroidered tablecloths! One is round and the other is rectangle.

yes, the cob webs are still on it, I was excited and took the picture immediately, LOL!

I bought my husband a record player for his birthday a few years back and he loves it. So the free records were a special score!

Of course I had to stop at Sally's (my pet name for Salvation Army) on the way to Lowe's. And I found this lamp. I almost left it there, but I can see this in either white, red or green. It's wood and heavy and BIG. There is just something about it that I think will be spectacular with a lil' spray paint!

Oh and I also found this vintage (I think antique) wicker chest on casters a few weeks ago at a church sale! I couldn't resist and think I might use it in the baby's room in the new house. Or maybe for blanket storage in the cozy keeping room. Either way, I had to have it!!!

See the cute little casters? :)

I am going to post some of the exterior selections we made this week. I am trying to decide on exterior lights right now and found a GREAT deal on ebay. I just have to COMMIT! Hard for me! :)

Hope you all had a great weekend!

I'm linking up to Rhoda's Thrifty Treasure's linky party! Come Join the fun :)

XOXO