TMH

A Great Day After Some Not-So-Great Days

2012-02-21T21:13:00.001-08:00

Well, the 4 of us did it! We passed a stomach bug all the way around the house! It was a mean, but thankfully quick one and you never really appreciate doing the every day things until you've been really sick!

Our day started off with Classical Conversations where one of the lovely families fessed up to being George Washington's great x 9 grand child. So here I am very proudly holding GW's pistol! How cool! ( I think it is a pistol? Right?? I didn't pay attention to that part.)

Next we drove Nana to the airport for her visit to Florida then headed home. We read library books and Hayden fell asleep. I laid him down and then something happened that hasn't happened in an extremely long time. Miss I-Never-Stop-Moving-Maguire crawled into my lap and did this!

Yes. Shocking. That stomach bug took a big bite.
Anyhow, we all woke up in plenty of time to enjoy another amazingly beautiful winter day! There were ponies and neighbors to play with and a walk to the pond where Hayden tried to convince me sharks could live in our pond. (I knew that 12 Deadliest Animals movie was too much for him - but he insisted).

A Great day after some not so great days.

SNO*W

2012-02-18T15:19:00.000-08:00

Change of Plans

2012-02-16T15:21:00.001-08:00

We decided a couple of months ago to stop Berklee's weekly allergy shots and decided to go with LDA injections at the Lamkin Clinic in Edmond. The LDA are supposed to be much more effective and after having 6-8 injections over the span of a couple of years most people can go years without allergies before they may need another injection.

The only downside is that for 3 days surrounding the injections you must be on a very strict diet. I have been fretting about this part for weeks. The foods are cooked cabbage, carrots, celery, potatoes, sweet potatoes, raw lettuce, lamb, wild game or fish, and sea salt. That's it. No gum, olive oil, tooth paste, soap, chap stick,......

So wouldn't you know I planned and prepared and tried to convince my kids we were going to pretend like we live in the 1800's for 3 days AND then my kids got terribly sick today!!! I'm pretty sure it's the flu. So shots are postponed.

On a brighter note, I made lots of foods that I would have never made otherwise and they weren't that bad. Actually the lamb stew and potato fries were good. Pretty much throw all the vegetables above finely chopped into a pot with water and cooked ground lamb!

Hope you are having a happy and healthy Thursday!!!

The Lost Art of Printing Pictures

2012-02-13T12:02:00.000-08:00

Hi there! I've wanted to share this post for a couple of weeks now.

Bath time for the kids after some time in the snow

today makes for as good a time as any!

So, I have to admit that since the digital age took over

the world and the purchase of my fantom backup that will hold

one gazillion photos, I have long neglected

actually ordering photos to have and to hold! One reason,

is that I'm not usually satisfied with the quality I get from

Walgreens or Walmart or fill in the blank and I don't want

to fork over the money to have them professionally printed.

So, there they sit in a grey machine connected to my Mac.

I read a review about ~~a year ago~~ from a mom in

California who had the same problem. Lots of great pictures but

nothing really to show for it. So she sent her images to all kinds

of different print labs, and had them printed in all sorts of different

finishes; matte, glossy, metallic, etc, etc....

I tried really hard to find her blog again but couldn't.

Anyhow, she determined that the best bang for

your buck with the most accurate coloring and

best service was the following:

She ordered her favorites from Snapfish,

matte finish, with white border.

Now, the white border is a preference.

I tried it and really like it for photo albums

or for hanging them from cute little clips like so.

And here are a couple more that I had printed.

I was super duper happy with the photos.

Note: When you order your prints with the matte finish you have

to wait about a week to get them in the mail. Which is great because

if you order them glossy at Snapfish they are printed at Walgreens lab. Boo.

This what you are trying to avoid. :) It's worth waiting.

Another greaaaaat way to get some of your photos out of your camera and into

the hands of people you love is to send them a Postagram via the app on your phone.

It is only 99 cents! to send one of your favorite instagram pictures with a message on a postcard!! Then you can pop the photo out! This is my favorite new thing!

Hayden sent one to his daddy to thank him for teaching him

his master ninja skills. :)

Hopefully this will inspire you to get some good ole fashion

pictures printed!

Happy Monday!

2012-02-10T18:42:00.001-08:00

This week has been a blur. Shawn has been incredibly busy at work and we stayed up late every night working on stuff for the practice.

I also have had problems with my thyroid ever since Hayden was born but decided to go off my medication (dumb) and see a new doctor so we could start from scratch. So it was about 2 months between the time I stopped the medicine and when I saw the new doctor. Did I mention I have hypothyroidismswhich means my thyroid is under productive which translates into I COULD SLEEP FOR 12 HOURS AnD WAKE UP TIRED EVERY SINGLE DAY. I'm not a big fan of taking medicine but I kissed that prescription bottle yesterday.

So here are the ONLY pictures I took this week. So rare for me.

We made butter one day by shaking heavy whipping cream. My tricep was sore the next day.

And this was a bird in a nest in my moms backyard. It almost looked fake.

Hopefully I'll get some pep in my step for next week!!

Moving On-The Circle of Life

2012-02-08T07:50:00.000-08:00

******************************

I'm sitting here on the couch with a laptop on my lap.

It was a good and busy day with the kids. So much of

what the Lord is teaching me through parenting and

homeschooling is so fullfilling, and hard.

It is amazing to me that all my life I never felt like God

had something special for me.

Most kids, even very young ones,

have some sort of an idea in their mind of what they want to be

when they grow up. I don't remember ever having a clue.

Even in college, no desire, none.

I just kept taking classes until they gave me a degree in something.

Then corporate America was the next logical step.

And to be really honest I hated every single moment of it.

Just as I was a great student, I was also a great employee.

What drove me? I am terrified of failure.

But being driven by fear instead of by the excitement

of reaching a goal makes a huge difference! One makes you

miserable, the other invigorates. Fast forward a bit, to marriage

and having two children and the opportunity came for me to

be a full time mom.

As any mother knows, being a mom is no easy task

and I have struggled many days, more in the beginning stages,

but I have never one day wished I could go back to work.

Homeschooling and raising my kids is what I was meant to do!

It was what God had for me all along!

And I'm so overjoyed to finally be living for a purpose!

******************************

It may sound silly now, and it probably would've sounded ridiculous

at any point in my youth to tell my friends or professors that when

I grow up I just want to be a mom!

Although when I figured out this was what

God had created me for it still didn't

automatically take away the fear of failure bit.

I have struggled- and still struggle with thinking about

all of the ways I could totally fail

at this and my children would grow up to be hoodlums.

This again, is

not a fun way to live my days. Fear produces anxiety.

Who needs more

of that?

The Lord has been faithful in showing me that

His grace is enough for even me.

I WILL fail.

Every day.

But every day I know him more and am able

to hopefully show my kids just a little more of him and less of me.

And the opposite of looking at myself and all of my weaknesses

is to look at him, at

the goal of eternity. To remember that if I do nothing else in my day, if I only

point my kids to Jesus, that is enough.

He will take care of the rest and I can

lay the burden on him. Just saying that makes

me take in a deep breath and let

it out slowly.

This is a long post.

But I am needing to get some thoughts out so thank you if

you are still here.

So on to today. Now. Do you ever feel like life is a cycle?

You come upon a roadblock, you hopefully overcome

that particular roadblock, and then hopefully

for a season enjoy a little peace?

Then another roadblock, overcoming, and peace.

Growing, maturing, finding out you can do more

that you thought you could do over

and over again?

I have helped my husband in his private

counseling practice for the last 8 years.

Even when I worked full time, I was in charge of all

of the billing, insurance,

and finance part of his practice as well.

And I have continued that part of it, and honestly

struggled with the balance of it more post kids then pre kids.

I feel as though only in the last several months have

I really gotten to a place where I have balance with

my role in our business, a real rhythm that isn't overwhelming to me.

Do you feel it coming on? The start of that cycle again?

The Lord whispering that he has something more for me?

Well, I do and he does. Another goal that could have an eternal impact.

The fear is creeping in.

The fear tells me that I could NEVER be qualified to help

my husband in his practice.

To develop marriage tools, to write about marriage, to

give others advice for goodness sakes!!

Me? And this is where once again,

I must trust and be faithful to what he is calling me to do.

I tell myself life is short. I don't want to waste it.

I want to keep my eyes on the goal.

The comfortable place was nice while

it lasted but now its time to move on.

******************************

InstaWeekend

2012-02-06T07:23:00.001-08:00

Oklahoma has been beautiful this winter! Besides about a dozen trips to Florida to visit Shawn's family Oklahoma is all I know! Most people move here kicking and screaming but then soon come to love the people and the slower pace of life. I personally can't imagine life any faster but just like everything else it is all about what is "normal" for you!

Although everyone else in the world loves my chicken pot pie, poor Hayden is not a fan.

Took our kids and the neighbors kids to the park. Love our fellow homeschool next door neighbors. They will be the most missed thing when we move!

Hayden's shadow in the car. Love the eyelashes.

Looking for lots.

Best halftime show! Took me back to my youth. I knew every word and sang along for my kids entertainment!

Speaking of. Probably the best part about living in Oklahoma is Braums Ice Cream & Dairy. All products from a local farm and lots of location. If you ever pass through this is a must stop. :)

Have a great Monday!!!

Yesterday {always too fast}

2012-02-04T11:49:00.000-08:00

I read this post yesterday morning, from a mom with older children,

and it made me want hold tight to these two kids of mine and

never let go!

It rained most of the day and was

perfect for a day of games, having friends over for lunch,

playing in the rain,

snuggling and sipping hot chocolate.

These pictures are precious moments of a great

day that I never want to forget.

Too often I let the days slip by without taking time

to soak up the breath, and the

kisses, and the tears, and those glorious moments

when they need my direction. ;)

Not yesterday.

I got soaked!

******************************

Embrace the Camera and a Video

2012-02-02T14:17:00.000-08:00

Today I am embracing the camera over at the anderson crew
with none other than......

Berklee and Hayden!

I bet you couldn't have guessed that. :)

They are getting so big. I go back and forth between wanting

another little baby and then appreciating the easier days

that are here with no diapers and sleeping through the night.

That was random and so is this video.

Last night Shawn took the kids to dinner so that I could

have a couple of hours to work on billing in silence.

I warned him the kids had played outside all day

and Hayden had not had a nap.

I guess the following video is evidence of that.

Kids will do almost anything....

2012-02-01T16:56:00.000-08:00

for ice cream around my house.

Like smile a lot and ham it up for the camera.

We enjoyed yet another spring-like day here.

I have been an Okie my whole life and cannot remember

such a warm winter!

No one is complaining, I think we are all holding

our breath.

And now photo dump.

Happy February!

With Love From Arizona

2012-01-31T13:48:00.000-08:00

About a month ago I decided to sign up for a blogger gift exchange over at Casey's blog

and today we get to blog about our new friend and what we received.

I got paired up with Gabby from Games. She loves vintage, polka dots and her husband

to name a few! I was so excited, I forgot to take a picture of the pink package! I loved

everything she sent me and I don't think I have ever mentioned on my blog that my favorite color is pink, but somehow she knew!

My favorite gift is this big, light pink, vintage-y head band!

And here is the rest of the goodies!

And I sent Gabby an 8X10 of my favorite print from The Wheatfield, which you saw on my blog yesterday. :)

Notes from my Notebook

2012-01-30T14:46:00.000-08:00

via

I had an absolute fantastic time at the Winter Summit.

It was exactly what I needed.

I made wonderful new friends and came away with an even bigger

picture of Christ. He is so big and so good, even in our failures.

Definitely in our failures.

So, I thought I would just share some statements from my

notebook that stood out to me from the many.

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I want to find beauty in the sink,

beauty in the suffering,

beauty in the daily.

via

When I look for glory in the moment I can slow down the current of

life. There is no joy and peace in hurry.

Thanksgiving changes your basket that is never full enough to

a basket that is overflowing.

Before your child can ever read words they can read your heart.

Use visual prompts to connect with God as often as possible.

{ex: let taking a shower remind you to pray that God would cleanse

your heart, when you get dressed visualize yourself being clothed in dignity.}

Look beyond your struggling child. Is there a wounded spirit that needs to

be mended? You should be a student of your child.

Teach your kids about emotions and take the time to train them how to

handle them.

Our children hear a lot of words, instructions, nagging from us. When you

can, use gestures instead of words. Instead of telling them to put on their

jacket again, pick it up and hold it out for them.

What is the vision for your home? Family is God's idea so what does he

say about it?

He pulled Abraham (the father of all generations) out of his culture and

did something completely new.

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What is lacking in our society from our kids??

1. the ability to have meaningful conversations.

2. the ability to problem solve (critical thinking).

3. the ability to take risks. (they are sheltered from pain and failure).

4. the ability to be concerned about principles rather than results.

Our children should be getting their worldview around the dinner table

and not from movies. Our job is to discuss other worldviews with our children

and not just shelter them.

The truth that makes you free, will first make you angry. ---John Maxwell

Thoughts create your emotions.

Disappointment is a choice.

Feelings are not truth.

As a mother of children, all the interruptions ARE MOMENTS FROM GOD

AND NOT INTERRUPTIONS AT ALL.

.....that homeschooling has led me to the foot of the cross - which is the

very best place for me to be.

via

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Winter Summit 2012

2012-01-27T08:40:00.000-08:00

This weekend I am heading to Homeschool Mom's Winter Summit 2012.

I am so excited to meet new people and be inspired.

And I looking forward to gaining some wisdom from homeschool

moms who have a lot of experience

under the belts!

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This week I am thankful for the valley's of life.

I feel like the Lord has personally led me out of the

valley in some areas of my life and now, from

the mountaintop, I can praise Him in a whole new way.

And isn't my mom's new logo pretty awesome!

A very talented friend in our church blessed her with this

and now she can't be stopped!!!

Happy Friday!

"Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness

and all these things shall be added."

Funny Stuff for a Thursday

2012-01-25T20:20:00.000-08:00

Since my last post was a little on the heavy side

I thought I would lighten up the mood around here.

So, I will share with you two things that made me laugh

today. Out loud.

First, I won't go into the whole, long funny story, but

my son was amazed at THE WALKING GRASS!!

And yes, that would be a tumbleweed. There were dozens of small

ones "walking" across the Sam's parking lot.

I will never look at another tumbleweed again without

giggling and thinking of my sweet boy.

_______________

And now you have to go read this post.

Reagan is a hoot and it seriously made me laugh out loud.

I have been reading Reagan's blog for well over a year

and am constantly inspired and reminded to be grateful

as her and her husband live life with a young daughter who

has Cerebro Costo Mandibular Syndrome.

Okay, well that is sad and this post was supposed to be funny so

now you definitely have to go read her post!!

The Purpose of Life, My Take

2012-01-25T06:44:00.001-08:00

This past weekend Shawn and I really sought the Lord

as to what he has for us - our mission.

This is what we know. God is a God of purpose and order.

Yes, we trust in him moment by moment but he

created each of us in a unique way so that we may be used

in His kingdom, for His glory, and to build His Church.

So often we think of the Church as a whole unit, which in

one sense it is, but you and I are really the Church.

We do not go to church. The Church goes to a building

and has meetings. This was a huge game-changer for me.

Are you still there? Probably not. The posts that don't have

great pictures or a DIY project tutorial aren't very popular.

But I pray you read the next part.

So then, building the Church means a maturing, a growing

up of all the individuals that make up the church.

Paul writes to the Galatians 4:19, "My dear children, for

whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you,

how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone,

because I am perplexed about you!"

Paul knew that the Lord could not use spiritual babies.

He needs those who have gone further, that have gone through

real experiences with the Lord, who have been transformed!

Then we can be used as living stones and train up others in the same way.

That is discipleship.

There is a kingdom to be built, there is work to do.

Are we working? Or are we passively living our lives as if tomorrow

is a promise.

So, our mission?

_________________________

We want to encourage others to fight the good fight.

To fight against spiritual apathy.

We want to fight against the numbing effects of our culture.

To be used to open up the eyes of the blind to see

the eternal purpose of God.

We want to be a part of saving marriages,

to see legacy's changed for generations to come.

We want to see a city, a state, a nation of believers

who walk around in the power and authority that

they have been given and have been trained to use

to fight agains the spiritual powers and principalities. (Eph. 6:12)

Basically, we want to go big or go home! :)

Have you sought the Lord's purpose for your life?

That question is overwhelming for most.

It was for me.

This is what the Lord showed me.

Start with your marriage.

This is where a lot of training and maturing for the Lord's work

takes place! 9 years into it I can say Amen to that!

Start with your kids. Again, Amen, a lot of training and maturing

happening here!

"For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for

all things, holding promise for both the present life and the

life to come."

1 Timothy 4:8

I hope you have a wonderful Wednesday!
And check out Shawn's post over at
Behind a Counselor's Door.

Linking up here,

and here,

Road Trip

2012-01-23T21:34:00.001-08:00

Shawn and I had a great trip. I had forgotten what it was like to only be responsible for feeding my own mouth, blowing my own nose and wiping my own.... you know for more than 12 hours.

The NYLO hotel was great, conference was great, Dallas is great and my company was perfect.

And what says road trip more than a trashed out floor board?

{minus the Bible, not trash}

And both kids are now sick.
But at least I'm not sick. Anymore.
Happy Monday.

Conversations

2012-01-19T11:40:00.000-08:00

As I said, I definitely wanted to highlight some of the conversation I had with my 3 (almost 4 year old boy-I cannot believe it) year old. Since Shawn and I are leaving them for the weekend we decided to have a date night this week. Shawn took Berklee out and Hayden took me out. :)

Funny thing about this picture is that I thought he was smiling for the camera
but he just couldn't wait. So when I looked at my phone I laughed for a while. :)

Our kids are currently in a Freddy's phase big time so I took Hayden to Freddy's and he got his own burger, fries, sprite and his very first dirt-n-worms. We sat at the really tall table with the spinning bar stools and talked.

Me: Hayden what do you think you want to be when you grow up?
H: A daddy.
Me: Oh, that's nice. How many kids do you think you'll have?
H: 3 boys.
Me: And there names?
H: Fred, Fred, and Freddy.
Me: And your wife's name?
H: Tanda!
Melt my heart.

H: Mom, could you tell me about the top of my head? I never get to see that part of my
body.

H: Mom, is that man singing about Sara? (the station in Freddy's was playing 80's and 90's hits).
Me: Yes, he is saying Sara.
H: I bet she is an angel.
Me: Maybe. Not really sure.

H: Mom, do you think an Stegosaurus could beat a T-Rex?
Me: Hmmmm.
H: Do you think an Allosaurus could beat a Triceratops?
Me: I don't know.
H: Do you think a Diplodocus could beat a Spinosaurus?
H: Do you think a Brachiosaurus could beat a Gigantasaurus?
(I am zoning out here, it went on for a while...........)

Anyway, he was so cute and we had a fantastic time at Barnes and Noble
afterward where I ~~had~~ got to read through a Dinosaur Encyclopedia and a Star Wars
Encyclopedia type book.

I love this age.

Berklee had a great time with daddy too. They are what I call two peas in a pod.

Getting ready to hit the road with my man.
Have a great weekend!

My day and 2 Recipes

2012-01-18T20:51:00.001-08:00

I really enjoy my big, fancy camera but blogging from my phone saves so much time.

The kids started gymnastics this morning. They loved it and did great!
We went to Metro, which is further from our house than Dynamo but metro has homeschool classes in the middle of the day so it doesn't have to take up an evening and they can go at the same time! Bonus baby!

Made 2 pans of this yummy recipe for
our fellowship on Sunday, except I used shredded rotisserie chicken

instead of chicken breasts. We go to
a home church and each family rotates bringing a meal.

We just celebrated 1 year of meeting together with some amazing people.

Maybe more on that later. :)

Made this crowd-pleasing recipe tonight! It was my first time t

o use won ton wraps and I loved them!

The kids are really into games right now so this is what we

do most nights before quiet time.

I had a cup of coffee tonight so I could finish the following.

Happy Wednesday!!!

Date Night {Wordless Wednesday}

2012-01-18T07:32:00.000-08:00

There will be more to come from this date because the conversations were priceless.

Linking up with Live and Love Out Loud, The Paper Mama, &

Random Tuesday Photos

2012-01-18T06:34:00.001-08:00

It's been a while since I've had a random post! Lots of pictures and memories to record on this little blog today!

We had some more amazing weather for January over the weekend. So we, of course, took advantage of it and went fishing in a mud hole! Berklee looked so cute, she had to go potty.

We have a massage table that has saved us a lot if $$$$ and is a great way to bless each other. Now the kids have discovered the wonderfullness of getting a massage! Oh boy!

We told them to close their eyes and rest and I looked back and saw what looks like a prayer session! So cute. The new car has brought them closer, literally!

Yummy chicken tortilla soup recipe I found on Tasty Kitchen.

Berklee painting at Classical Conversations. This semester they are learning about fine arts.

And lastly Shawn and I are getting to go to Dallas this weekend for half business and half anniversary. One of the nights we are staying at the NYLO. Looks pretty awesome! We haven't taken a trip overnight by ourselves since the kids were born!! Holy guacamole!!! (as Skippy John Jones would say)

InstaFriday

2012-01-13T09:57:00.001-08:00

Celebrating 9 years.

Sleepily getting my hair brushed.

Ice cream and $1 movie day!

Our new afternoon routine.

1st cake pop!

Valentine's Day DIY

2012-01-13T07:43:00.000-08:00

It doesn't take much sometimes to impress my bunch.

This was one of those super easy projects that was a complete hit.

My husband thinks I can do anything.

{Really, sweety, all it involved was two types of glue.}

But I'll let him think I am super woman.

I saw this idea here and ran to Target to

get my $1 section mailboxes!

You need candlesticks, gorilla glue, and whatever decor

you choose.

Happy Friday!!

Coffee Filter Wreath Tutorial

2012-01-12T10:25:00.000-08:00

I am re-posting this tutorial because after almost
over a year, I still love my wreath!

So here is the wreath tutorial. I got this great idea from The Nester.

But I will say that I accidentally made an improvement

to The Nester's project.

Here is what you need. And here is where my improvement

came in. The Nester used a packaged wood/like wreath

but all I had was a styrofoam one in the craft/linen/christmas gift closet.

When I was showing off the beaut to my friend after I was

finished she suggested that I could stick different holiday

or floral picks in the wreath for each holiday or season!

So fold your coffee filter in half like so.

And then in half again like so.

Now a dab of glue will do ya. I put mine pretty close together.

It doesn't have to be perfect!

Happy Thursday!

........Thoughts on Life........

2012-01-12T06:32:00.000-08:00

The Word says that Jesus is the bread of life.

Life.

Isn't that what we are all striving for in all of our pursuits?

I confess that I have been detached for a few weeks.

Detached in my time with the Lord,

detached when my husband comes home for work.

If you have been a Christian for very long you

know the -desert- place I'm in.

Not really hearing or feeling, anything.

No life really.

Praise God he is still there even when we don't

feel anything.

Yesterday, out of the blue, I felt like he

asked me if I was hungry for bread?

The world offers you a feast.

I offer you bread.

He spoke to my heart.

He knows me.

I had to confess that no, lately I have not

been hungry for bread, for Him, for His word.

But I have not remembered that these are

life.

If I am filling my life too much with the feast

then I will think that I am full.

But I am deceived. Malnourished.

Only the bread can satisfy. He is the bread.

I will not be satisfied with any other thing.

Everything else is like a diet Coke.

Full of empty calories. :)

"Blessed are those who hunger

and thirst for righteousness,

for they will be filled." ......Matthew 5:6

You {&} Me

2012-01-11T11:09:00.001-08:00

Happy Anniversary Mr. Maguire!

We had only known each other 3 months when this picture was taken.
I'm positive we had lots of doubters in the audience that day.
We had a peace and we went with that. Peace over logic that day.
God is so good.
He knows our today.
He holds our future.
And He doesn't always operate under our "logical" terms.

Crock Pot Roast Beef French Dip

2012-01-10T20:16:00.000-08:00

If I could cook a crock pot recipe every day I would.

My husband might have a problem with that but I wouldn't.

There is nothing better then(than?) smelling the goodness

all day long and not having to worry about cooking dinner.

Here is one of our most favorites.

Roast Beef French Dip

Ingredients:

* 1 2.5 to 4 Pound Tender Chuck Roast (read the label

as there are all different lumps of meat that look the same)

* 1/2 Stick of Butter

* 1 Large Onion, Sliced Thick

* 4 Cloves Garlic, Peeled

* 1/2 Cup Soy Sauce (we use lite, low sodium)

* 1 Cup Sherry (I buy cooking Sherry)

* 1/2 teaspoon Salt

* 4 Cups Water

* Toasted Whole Wheat Rolls (really whatever you prefer)

*Sliced Swiss Cheese

Place the onions and butter in your Crock Pot.

Place your roast on top of the onions and then add all

of the other ingredients.

Cover and let cook on the low setting for 6 hours.

If the meat isn't tender and falling apart then let it

cook for 30 more minutes until it is!

Shred the meat with two forks.

Slap the meat, onions, and swiss cheese on your

toasted bread and serve each person their own juices for dipping.

And Enjoy!!

Day in the Life of

2012-01-10T09:30:00.000-08:00

This is a pretty typical afternoon when we have been going hard all day.

Driving in silence is priceless to a mother of young children.

On Parenting......

2012-01-10T05:42:00.000-08:00

One of the things I love about blogging is the accountability.

When I put something out there for anyone and everyone

to read it really helps me to be more aware, and really it

just sticks better in my brain. In college, the way

I studied was to take notes during class and then after

class I would re-write the exact same notes and they would just stick, mostly.

I guess it is sorta the same concept.

So, on parenting.....

As cheesy as it may sound, I want to remember each and

every day that my kids have a bucket, a love bucket.

I am the one responsible for that bucket each day.
If I can remember to fill

that bucket to the very brim before we start doing the things

we have to get done that day (school, chores, grocery store, bank.....)

the day goes so much better. When I take time in the morning

to fill those buckets with hugs and kisses and

encouragement and attention and sometimes a story or one-on-one

play time my day turns out better every-single-time.

They fight less and obey more.

They are filled.

Sometimes, I forget. Like most of the day goes by,

and in the middle of the afternoon it will hit me.

I never stopped to fill their buckets. I have barked orders,

hurriedly ran around them to get my things done and barely

stopped to soak in a sentence from them and then look into
their little faces and respond in a way that lets
them know they are more important than the laundry.

Empty Buckets = Bad Day

Lord, you say in your word that children are
like arrows in the our hands. You are the target.
We aim them at you as best as we can.
We can't control the arrow or the wind once
it leaves our hand.
But we aim.
Help me to aim.
Help me to fill.
Psalm 127:4

DIY {NO} Headboard Solution

2012-01-09T08:57:00.000-08:00

When we had a garage sale last spring

I wanted to go ahead and sale Hayden's crib/toddler bed

even though I didn't have a bed to replace it with.

We bought him a mattress and frame at Sams but

I wanted to find a garage sale headboard to refinish

for his room. Of course since I actually was

in need of one, I haven't seen one that would work.

So, until I find one I came up with

a temporary solution for the blank spot above his bed.

I actually really like it.

I bought the letter "H" at Michael's and found a large

salad bowl that was slightly bigger that the

letter. I traced the bowl where I wanted the circle, painted and hung.

Voila!

Easy and super duper cheap-o!

I think this could work really well in any room!
Linking up with these lovely blogs.

Weekend Rewind

2012-01-09T07:53:00.000-08:00

I was sick over the weekend. Still feeling like my throat is raw and my head is stuffed with cotton or something like that. But I did have some little helpers. Shawn and the kids took such good care of me. I was even served dinner in bed on Saturday night, where I was most of the afternoon/evening watching documentaries on Netflix. I truly am a nerd. I accepted that a long time ago.

My helpers.

Vacuuming lent out of the dryer was NOT my request. I don't even do that.
I guess the dirty dryer door bugs him?

My happy dish washer.

In other news, we almost sold our house and then we didn't.

I was a little annoyed but had

a peace about it.

And this picture

Favorite Shot

of Hayden smashing his face against the back door glass
reminded me of this post.

That's all for this morning.
Happy Monday!

2012-01-06T21:03:00.001-08:00

Thank you Lord for the gorgeous weather in January. Such a treat!

I took down all of our Christmas decorations today. Nothing like the feel of de-clutteredness!

Happy Friday!
From the Maguire house

Homeschooling-What We're Doing

2012-01-06T10:27:00.000-08:00

Well, with one semester under my belt, I have a few

of things to say about homeschooling a 5 year old (and a 3 year old).

1. It's not nearly as difficult as I expected.

2. But.........it requires patience.

3. We have fun, when I have fun.

4. Some days we do nothing.

5. Some days we double up.

6. It can be very fulfilling to be a part of your child's education.

7. It can be very frustrating to be a part of your child's education.

The most difficult part for me

(besides the first week adjustment)

was choosing our curriculum.

There are hundreds of options.

Here is what we prayerfully chose knowing that we

could always change it up if something didn't work.

I love that freedom!

For Berklee's reading and math basics we are

using My Father's World.

It lays out every day for me and came with

all of the worksheets, games, tools that I need.

Berklee loves it and to my sheer joy, is reading

3 letter words on her own! I know every child

is different and worked really hard to NOT push her to

read. She literally picked up her workbook one night and

did it.

Berklee loves the fact that she can touch something while

she is learning. Out of the 3 types of learning styles (auditory, visual,

and kinesthetic) I definitely believe she favors the kinesthetic.

We spend anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour a day

on the My Father's World lessons.

...........................

I knew going into the year that I also wanted to

be a part of a group program. For my own sanity and theirs.

I had originally just thought we would find a group

so that the kids could play and interact and maybe

go on field trips????

But I feel like God truly walked us right into Classical Conversations.

I cannot tell you how much I love what this nationwide program is

about. Their purpose is for our children to

"know God and make him known" through the

classical education model with a Biblical worldview.

The 3 stages of CC are.....

Grammar (knowledge)

Dialectic (understanding)

Rhetoric (wisdom)

......based on Proverbs 24:3-4.

We meet at a church, in a school type setting.

There are at least 7 different age groups (classes) each with

their own tutor. All of the CC material is introduced for that week

and then your job as the parent is just to review the

material throughout the week.

We spend about 20 minutes a day doing this.

If your interested at all I would encourage you to go

to one of the 1 or 3 day practicums. I went to

the 3 day practicum last summer and left with a passion

and vision to educate my children!

My Father's World and Classical Conversations are just two of many options

out there. Every families' needs and desires and opinions are different.

These are just the two that we chose.

I did a ton of research and loved reading about personal examples

of what mother's were using with their own children.

So maybe this will be beneficial to someone!

Blessings,

The Maguire House

"God doesn't call the equipped,

he equips the called."

Lens Talk- 35mm vs 50mm

2012-01-05T05:39:00.000-08:00

Disclaimer: I am not a professional. :)

So, did you get an SLR camera for Christmas? They are pretty awesome.

I have had mine for, gosh, a little over 2 years now?

My how time flies!

I was so excited to start using my camera but quickly

realized that the glorious images I had envisioned weren't

magically appearing on my view finder.

To be more specific, I wanted the pretty fuzzy, soft,

blurry background!

I couldn't tell my husband I was disappointed..........but I was.

So I started my photography quest for knowledge.

I wanted to figure it out.

So, to make this shorter rather than longer. Here we go.

Cannon 35mm f/2 ($350) vs 50mm f/1.8 ($100)

If you have no idea why f/# is so important read

this and this first.

*** Your lens must have a low f-stop in order to get
the bokeh effect.

When I got ready to purchase my first additional lens
I did a lot of homework. Almost unanimously everyone
out there says by the 50mm first. But I thought, no way, the more
expensive one has to be better.
I'm so glad I went with the crowd on this one.
I did eventually get the 35mm f/2 but the 50mm is still my first love.

Comparisons:

The 35 mm has a slightly wider frame, as you can see above.

I was squatting in approximately the same spot when

I took both of these photos.

*** These are both prime lenses, which means you

don't zoom in and out with the lens. You walk closer

or further away from your subject.

These are by no means considered macro lenses. But this

is pretty much as up close as I need. Both are great

but for $250 less you can't beat the 50mm!

And here is my shot of the day.

This is straight out of the camera. No

editing. Hooray!

(and yes, she wanted to pose with a rock)

No Heat {Sock} Curls While You Sleep!

2012-01-04T08:56:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting to try this for a while.

My hair is thick and long so it takes forever

to curl or straighten it.

I can NOT just wash, dry and go.

I would scare people.

Get 3 socks and just know that your husband will think you are crazy.

Not bad for my first attempt. It was super easy.

I just forgot to put product in my hair before the socks.

Here is a link to a super quick tutorial!

Focus

2012-01-03T13:11:00.000-08:00

.....................................................................................................................................................................

Life is a gift and we would be ungrateful to waste it.

Live life on purpose and fully understand that you are

the one who controls, not what happens to you, but

what you do about it when it happens.

I have really been thinking about this new year.

I've read about a lot of resolutions.

I'm not one for resolutions. (blah)

But what about a word for the year.

Yep that's better.

......................

Focus.

......................

That's my word for 2012.

Definition: a central point, as of attraction, attention,

or activity.

I want the central to be Christ.

In my thoughts, my day, my interactions with my

children, my money, my marriage.

That means weeding.

Weeding waste, junk, selfishness, materialism,

idols, etc...

I want to live my life as if the Lord's return

is this month,

this day, this minute.

I had visions in 2011 that prompted a holy and

gloriously wonderful fear of the moment

those trumpets will sound.

Every time I envision the moment the Lord

parts the heavens, and my mind and body realize that

this is it, I am brought to tears,

(and almost a heart attack) by

the sheer reality and magnitude of what I am really here

living for. The hope that I have, the belief that I say

I live for.

Matthew 7:13-14

"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the

gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction,

and many enter through it.

But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to

life, and only a few find it."

I believe those who live life on purpose, those

who are focused on Christ alone, find

the narrow road.

I want to be on the narrow road

when my Lord returns.

I want to be invited to the marriage feast

and be given authority in the kingdom.

I want to reign with Christ!

That blows my mind.

Does it yours?

The perfect son of God is coming

back for us to be his bride, to complete

what God had planned from the very beginning.

Focus.

Monday

2012-01-02T10:12:00.001-08:00

Supermodel vs. Mom {Health Tips} for 2012

2011-12-31T12:26:00.000-08:00

I stay connected with the world through the Fox News App.

Every night, before I close my eyes I digest what is going on.

Shawn can't understand how I can read about so many depressing things

before bed. I'm not sure either, except that I am a great sleeper!

As is usual, one night last week I checked the

Entertainment section and an interview with

a supermodel talking about her secret to staying "healthy" caught my eye.

I like to be healthy and I'm a sucker for a good tip so I clicked and read.

When I first read her tip my eyes brightened up for a moment and I may

have had an "aha" thing go off in my brain. "I bet that would really work!"

I said to myself. And then Shawn asked me if I was ever going to make our

bed again and I was brought back into reality.

Her tip?

EAT NAKED. It promotes body-self awareness. You probably won't want

to eat a big plate of nachos in the nude she assured the interviewer.

So true right? But not cool for a mom with a family. Unless you want

to eat your meals locked in your bedroom.

So here is my tip to the moms of the world. It really works. I promise.

Before a meal or going into a restaurant or when you start to get unnatural

cravings, down a BIG glass of water.

Seriously, it will do wonders. Go buy a big water bottle, either one with a

large opening or with an extra wide straw. Fill it up with water at room

temperature. Downing ice cold water is not gonna happen.

Wonders I tell you. Wonders.

Happy New Years Eve!

Easton Overload!

2011-12-30T14:04:00.000-08:00

I feel like today all of my blood, sweat, tears,

and practice paid off.

I am really happy with how these photos turned out.....

so I'm posting a bunch.

I really didn't have to touch up at all.

Just turned some black and white and made a little more crisp.

Here is my first precious nephew, Easton Jay.

Happy Friday!

Be Blessed!!!

This Little Guy

2011-12-30T06:40:00.000-08:00

Headed to my sister's today to take some official baby pics of this little guy.

He is so tiny and adorable.

Can't wait to share!

Also, I am halfway done with Katie's book that I got for Christmas!

It is really good.

That's all.

Happy Friday!!!

The Dinosaur Was Invited

2011-12-29T15:51:00.000-08:00

I can't believe we are having an outdoor tea party in December!

Loving the gorgeous weather!

The kids asked me today if it were spring.

That made me laugh loud in a "it's gonna be a long

winter" sorta laugh.

Happy Thursday!

Show Off Your Shot Thursday

2011-12-29T10:01:00.000-08:00

Today I'm linking up with {and then, she snapped}.

for show off your shot Thursday.

My shot of the week.

Happy Thursday!

Christmas Collage

2011-12-28T18:24:00.000-08:00

Family Dynamics...Personality Differences

2011-12-27T21:35:00.000-08:00

If you have more than one child then you know that each

of your children are unique and can sometimes be

as different as night and day.

My two are totally opposite from each other.

Hayden is like me in so many ways. We are the ones who tend

to be more reserved, patient, and we like our sleep!

Berklee on the other hand, is energetic, full of curiosity(and words),

and can't stand the fact that her body has to have rest.

She is just like her daddy in those ways.

The saying that opposites attract is so true.

And then you get married and those characteristics that first

stood out to you and were the very things that made your

spouse special and unique are usually the very same

qualities that can be a source of irritation.

The irreconcilable differences that must be

reconciled.

The same is true for our relationships with our children.

For me, I am naturally more prone to migrate towards

Hayden. We can sit quietly, and still, in a chair.

He can happily play alongside me by himself for long periods of time.

Berklee on the other hand, wiggles always,

wants to carry on continuous conversation,

and rarely wants to be left alone.

My love for Berklee is no different than my love for

Hayden. I would lay my life down for her in the very same

number of heartbeats it would take to lay it down for Hayden. (one)

But it takes more patience, more awareness, and more of

Christ in me to be the mother that I desire to be for her.

The Lord has designed our family exactly the way he wanted it.

He knew how I needed to learn and grow from the children and

husband He gave to me.

Around the Corner

2011-12-26T16:19:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited (and a little exhausted). As most of you know, my husband and I own a

counseling practice. I have to say he, my husband, is pretty amazing at what he does.

Although, he helps many people who have various struggles,
his number one passion is seeing marriages restored.
He has had the thrill of watching couples come in with divorce papers literally in hand

and then leaving,after some very hard work and commitment,
hand in hand with hope for a great future together!

So we have been working on some big changes for 2012. Big for us at least!

We will be launching a new website in January, changing our name, and

focusing on our 3-Month Marriage Intensive Counseling! I thought I would

share some of the details of the Marriage Intensive Program since that is

what I have been working on today.

New name and website will be ShawnMaguire.net.

Is One Hour a Week Counseling Best for Couples in Crisis?

I’ve found that for couples in crisis one hour a week just isn’t enough. Couples can feel as though they have merely opened up their wounds and leave my office feeling even more hopeless than before the session began. This leaves hurting couples, already desperate, feeling even more discouraged and vulnerable.

My 3-Month Marriage Intensives on the other hand, are designed to give you the best possible opportunity to save your marriage and includes the following:

· One on-site visit per month by me. These visits will range in time from4-6 hours. You may select the location. Your home, church, office, etc….

· Two phone calls with me per day, Monday through Friday.

· Texting during business hours. (Monday through Friday 9am-5pm).

· Unlimited email with a 24 hour response. (excluding Sunday).

· Four after hour phone calls per month.

· Two in-person sessions per week. (up to 90 minutes)

· Two in-person sessions per week for Spouse. (up to 90 minutes)

· One session every other week for children if applicable.

· All co-pays for in-person counseling sessions are included.

· Individualized strategies are created by me, specifically for you and are evaluated weekly

Intensive Counseling is for couples who find themselves in such despair that they don't have time to wait for one hour a week counseling to help them heal their pain.

When you have the advantage of working with me throughout the week with the commitment of my encouragement, guidance, and expertise we can more quickly and effectively address your needs and get you back on the path God has created you for.

hope

2011-12-24T08:30:00.001-08:00

Without the birth there
Would be no life.
Without the life there
Would be no death.
Without his death there
Would be no empty tomb.
Without an empty tomb there
Would be no hope.

Praising God this Christmas for
the gift of hope. The birth of Jesus
was the rescue plan put into
motion.
No wonder the heavens could
not contain their excitement
as they burst through in song
at the birth of the rescuer.

Jesus is our rescuer, our only hope.

12 Favorite Blogs {2011}

2011-12-21T11:12:00.000-08:00

In case you find yourself having a little extra time on your hands and want to be inspired in all sorts of different ways, I am listing my 12 Favorite Blogs for 2011. There is no way I could decide an order so it will be random. :)

.....backwards or forwards

.....forwards or backwards

Let's start backwards!

12. Nothing But Bonfires

Her "Bad Decision" Tuesdays make me laugh out loud

and her creativity inspires me. I plan on trying this idea in

our next house.

**********************************************

11. Life in Grace

I recently shared one of Edie's posts, Where Mundane Touches Sacred.

If you read it, then you know why this is one of my favorites.

As a former doctor with older children and younger children, who

is now a full time homeschool mom, I eat up her words of wisdom.

If you homeschool or have ever

considered it I would recommend reading this post.

Why I {still} Homeschool.

*********************************************

10. The Pleated Poppy

I really like Lindsey's decorating style and she also

posts pictures of her outfits for the week each Wednesday.

She inspires me to actually get dressed every day!

Which can be hard to do when you are mostly conversing

with a 3 and 5 year old. But putting together an outfit and

getting dressed does wonders for your day!

{as I type this, yesterday I had officially named today PJ day with the kids}

************************************************

9. Top of the Page with Leslie

I just recently stumbled on this blog and was blown away by Leslie's

writing. Her ability to put her walk with the Lord into words on

a blog is amazing. Her blog always leaves me longing to know my

Savior more! Here is an excerpt from one of her recent posts,

"Grace on a Thursday: Captivity."

"Today, I keep thinking about these Christmas lyrics.

(I know I know. I have a lot to say about this song. Bear with me.)

O Come O come Emmanuel,

And ransom captive Israel

That mourns in lonely exile here

Until the Son of God appears.

And how they align with this verse.

He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,

to proclaim liberty to the captives,

and the opening of the prison to those who are bound.

Isaiah 61:1

I keep thinking about captivity.

Tonight I'm reflecting on whether or not I understand my own captivity. Because if I don't have a good grasp on how sin has enslaved me in the past, and how it seeks to continually put me in chains, then Christmas means little. If I am not a hostage, then why would I need ransoming by this Emmanuel?......."

***********************************************

8. A Mom Without Facebook

For obvious reasons, I relate to this mom!

If you have some down time, I think you will enjoy the following post.

It's actually not about facebook at all. ;) So you can read it, guilt free if you

are a facebooker!

Buckle Up. My Facebook Aha! Moment

***********************************************

7. Jasmine Star Photography

I live as a photographer, vicariously, through this woman.

Holy guacamole, I love her work! And she is hilarious to boot!

Enough Said.

*************************************************

7. The Wiegands

I love Casey's honesty. Her and her husband are both

full time artist/photographer/film/etc..... so I also just

like being inspired by their pictures.

************************************************

6. Kevin and Amanda

One word. Freefonts. {had to make it one word}

You can follow the simple instructions and download the cutest

fonts to have FOREVER. Whether you have a photoshop program

or just want to use them in Word documents!

They also have a great SLR Photography Tutorials!

****************************************************

5. Ashley Ann Photography

Ashley is a former photographer turned full time mom.
Now she hosts photography workshops and shares loads of
tips and tricks as well as a whole page for DIY projects!
And she is an OKIE! :)

*************************************************

4. The Pioneer Woman

Whether you need homeschool tips, a recipe, a photography tutorial
or just a good laugh then grab a cup of egg nog and give
yourself a couple of hours to pour over Ree's blog.
Yes, I feel as though I can call her Ree. She too is an Okie and
she was the first official blog I had ever heard of.
She hooked me.
It's all Ree's fault!

Just look at her Caramel Apple Sticky Buns!

You'll be hooked too.

*******************************************************

3. Centsational Girl

If you ever wondered, "Can I spray paint this fill in the blank?",
then Kate is your girl!
She can turn something ordinary or unloved into
something beautiful.
She has a whole page dedicated to all of her step-by-step
do-it-yourself instructions.

Before and After with spray paint!

***********************************************

2. The Sweetest Occasion

I'm a total sucker for free stuff that I can print!

Like these holiday party invitations....

Or these gift tags.

Okay, we are here. Last one!

*************************************************

1. The Journey

Words couldn't say enough about Katie. She doesn't post on her

blog that often, but when she does your heart will be touched.

She is a living sacrifice. She saw a need across the world

and followed God's voice there to meet it.

She has adopted 13 {I lose count, might be more or less now}

orphans and that is only the beginning of the lives she is

touching in Uganda.

She just wrote a book that I will be buying soon.

Happy Wednesday!

Meet Easton!

2011-12-19T14:39:00.000-08:00

Our first peek!

Grandma's using their technology to spread the word!

Papa's first moment.

Thank you father for this perfect, precious gift.

2011 A Look Back in IPhone Pics

2011-12-17T19:30:00.001-08:00

2011-12-16T13:52:00.000-08:00

I found a cool old barn on an abandoned acreage less than a mile from our

house! I'm so grateful that my hungry family blessed their mama

on a 35 degree Sunday evening and let me take some

pictures with the tripod.

We will definitely be going back to this spot in the spring!

Blessings!

Chicken Pot Pie Any Way You Like It!

2011-12-14T21:13:00.000-08:00

As promised, here is the Maguire house recipe of the year! I have adapted this from The Pioneer Woman's original leftover turkey pot pie recipe. I have substituted just about every ingredient (because of lack of planning ahead as usual) but every time it has turned out delicious! I have also adapted it to be a lot quicker! This picture just doesn't do it justice.

You can actually make it real pretty if you take the time. I have found that a regular 9 inch pie plate is a little too shallow, so I started using a square baking dish from the 70's instead (what were they thinking with the gold mushrooms?). I have also made it real fancy in the mini individual pie plates with cut outs like so. I really hope you try this recipe!

You should be able to right click on the recipe and then save image and print.

Now for some pictures of the kids taken with my real camera!

I am so blessed to be a mom and at the end of the day

if all I have accomplished is doing my best at that then

I can sleep well!

Happy Wednesday!

2011-12-12T19:55:00.001-08:00

I'm convinced you can teach kids a lot of things by playing bingo. This alphabet bingo set came with my curriculum but you can download tons of different ones for free online. Woot woot!

The Better Half

2011-12-09T17:05:00.001-08:00

I don't tell him often enough.
He is the force behind me.
My encourager, my friend, my inspiration.

We have worked very hard over the last 7 years, since we felt God move us to open our own counseling practice. It has been a faith ride like none other. The Lord has always provided and his faithfulness has increased our faith. By leaps and bounds. The Lord seems to have begun to stir something more in our hearts. We want to help more people and in bigger ways. We don't know exactly what that looks like but the Lord seems to be giving us glimpses. These are exciting times! Stay tuned!

What a Day

2011-12-07T20:50:00.001-08:00

Today was a good day.
Because I like the PicFrame collages so much I thought I would share 3 more!

Hayden is getting so big!
This is him reading (looking at pictures) his Bible this morning.
He told me today that he thinks he has allergies.
He said, "Mom, I think I'm allergic to broccoli and Berklee."
He was serious.

This little girl helped me make dinner for some friends tonight. We made our famous chicken pot pies. I really need to post this recipe soon.
It is a not-gonna-fail-you-crowd-pleaser.
Forgot to take a pic of the after.
Maybe due to the huge mess and lack of time.

And lastly, my sweet mom came and installed a new kitchen faucet for me. Hayden helped out and then took a nap. :)
It is great having a professional handy woman for a mom!
Seriously, if you need something done leave a comment and I will give you her number!
Painting, yard work, Christmas decorating, tile, house cleaning, plumbing, you name it!

Happy Wednesday!

Advent {Anticipation}

2011-12-05T09:19:00.000-08:00

We are fully anticipating December 25th around here!

The kids and I made an Advent Calendar that they

wake up thinking about.

I got the idea (and free printable) for ours here and it was our math and

craft project for the day. :)

The first day we drank hot chocolate out of wine glasses.

And if you like the collage frame above you can download the PicFrame app

on your iPhone and do the same thing!

And I had to share the picture below from my friend Nikki.

Winnie is their kitten. She likes to hide in the

Christmas Tree.

Can you find her?

Happy Monday!

{19 Days and Counting}

Holiday Fun with Photoshop!

2011-11-30T20:39:00.000-08:00

I got this idea from The Paper Mama's 50 DIY days of Christmas.

And the templates were free from HERE.

Tonight I'm Giddy

2011-11-29T20:22:00.001-08:00

That's weird. A 32 year old woman has no business being giddy. But I really am. You see, the past year we have committed to a pretty tight budget. Being the one with the finance degree, I no doubt was given the responsibility of our finances from day 1. Obviously my husband trusts me. A lot. Anyhow, in school they didn't train you to tell the lady in Victoria Secret, "no thank you, I'm on a budget." We weren't in financial trouble but we knew we could be a lot further ahead of the game then we were.

So back to my point. Ahem. One of the things I decided to sacrifice in order to be able to stick to my budget was my hair appointments. No lie, I think I got my hair trimmed twice in the past year at Supercuts and dyed it out of a box. It worked great for a few months but the $10 do-it-myself job was really becoming obvious. Nothing wrong with the box, but i have A LOT of hair!

Soooo, tonight I got my hair did by a real life pro-fess-sha-nel!!!

And I was and am giddy!

Instagram Sunday

2011-11-27T19:02:00.001-08:00

Our Charlie Brown Christmas Tree is up. I'm going way light on decor this year since the house is on the market. Stockings, mini tree and manger scene. That's it.

The tree is filled with fun and meaningful ornaments we have collected in our almost 9 years of marriage. Hayden wanted his dinosaurs hanging on the very bottom so you can see them better.

One of Beeklee's favorites is her Tink ornament.

And one of my favorite pictures in a long time. Hayden hardly ever makes it home from church awake. Today was no different.

Happy Sunday!

•••Thanksgiving Número Dos•••

2011-11-25T19:42:00.001-08:00

I'm pooped, I'm toast, stick a fork in me I'm done.
I shopped til I dropped. My mother in law is an animal.
Just kidding, I'm just inexperienced. This was my 1st Black Friday, to shop that is. But I am broke in now.

We had our second Thanksgiving feast. All I have for now is iPhone pics. I left the photography to my stepmom for this one. Its nice to take a break. :)

Who has a miniature pony at Thanksgiving? We do!

Who has a hay ride? We do!

Who has super heroes? We do!!

Happy Thanksgiving!
Me and my heating pad are going to bed!

The Season Is Here!

2011-11-21T13:32:00.000-08:00

Today it is raining and cold.
After a morning of playing and working,
we ran a couple of errands and then I stopped
a Starbucks and let the kids get their first hot
chocolate in a real-life-starbucks-coffee-cup.
Today they would vote me mom of the century!

We came home and snuggled up and read a chapter
of Laura Ingalls Wilder's first book in the Little House
on the Prairie series, Little House in the Big Woods.

Now we are listening to a Point of Grace Christmas CD.
Kids are playing Batman and I am typing.

I wanted to share some pictures from our first holiday
gathering yesterday at my mom's house and some
pictures I took of my sister, in the freezing-coldness, yesterday.

The gang.

Thank you to all the people who did a silly face with me!

The Winners

Berklee performing My Little Pony.

Baby Easton's arrival is getting closer!

HAPPY MONDAY!

My Saying Says

2011-11-18T20:21:00.001-08:00

This week has had its highs and lows. We've all dealt with the adjustment in different ways and at different times.

Overall Shawn and I feel really good with

our decision and Rowin is doing well at his new home.

There is a saying that came to mind this week. "The Lord won't give you more than you can handle." but I think that is not true. If we could handle it all we wouldn't need Him! The Bible says we are being matured in this life to rule and reign with Jesus Christ as his bride, in the kingdom to come. Maturity is not an easy process. It is a choice. So my belief is that Yes, we will be given more than we can handle and that is when we choose to trust more, seek more, love Him more.

Free Printable Art

2011-11-16T18:26:00.000-08:00

I have had several friends ask where I get some of my art prints.

And one dear friend asked me today for suggestions on

inexpensive art for one of her rooms.

Here are a couple of great resources.

All you need is a printer and photo paper!

It is free and legal!!!

Feed Your Soul is the first site.

Every month an artist donates a piece of their

art that you can print in high resolution.

The print below is the November freebie.

So sweet.

Here is one that I have had in my living room.

And I have given this one to a friend who loves

her tea time!

The second site is The Graphics Fairy.

It is vintage artwork. Some of it is

definitely not my taste but if you search around

there is some good prints. I especially like

the insect prints for a boy's room.

Anyhow, hope you like free stuff like me!

And, if you would like some encouragement today

head over to Life in Grace to read her post for today,

When Mundane Touches Sacred.

Happy Wednesday.

Random things I like

2011-11-14T21:05:00.000-08:00

Today I am trying to keep focused on good, happy things.
Yesterday was rough. We took some last family pictures
with Rowin that I will post when I can bring myself to download them.

In other news, we put our house on the market.
Here is a link to the blog I made if you know
anyone who might be looking or you are just
curious. I love looking at other people's homes!

First random item. Bookshelves I want to purchase
or make for our next house.

via Design Mom

Next, we have a cardboard deer head.

I would really love to do something like this

in Hayden's next room. They are from Cardboard Safari.

I also really like the elephant and the moose.

Maybe one for every room! JK.

via Shabby Nest

Unless the Lord changes His mind about everything we will

be building our next house. I love everything about these next

3 pictures. It is me. Warm, open, rustic with a touch of elegance.

via The Pleated Poppy

Now, on to shoes. I think all of Kazowe's Shoes are adorable and functional.

We usually buy the kids a nice pair of shoes each season from Stride Rite but

depending on the return policy, I may have to try these next time!

via Kazowe Shoes

And lastly, I'm just now trying to figure out Pinterest.

Here is my first board. Berklee is super picky about clothes.

They have to be very soft, no jeans, no tags, not too warm.

She is like her daddy in that way. :)

I have heard about the Tea Collection and may have

to purchase some leggings for a Christmas present.

Okay that is it. If anyone knows how to post a Pinterest board

on a blog please help a sister out! I ended up just taking a

screen shot.

And I almost forgot some sweetness for your day.

I have been letting Hayden skip his naps this week.

Overall he has done really well.

But today after the science museum (notice we can't ever walk past

the face painting station) with some school friends

this is what happened as dinner was cooking and I sat down to

check my email. :)

I love my job.

Worth a Thousand Words

2011-11-11T09:35:00.000-08:00

I sifted through hundreds of pictures this week,

looking for pictures of Rowin in order to make

a slide show (in tears of course) and

realized there were very few pictures of him and I

together.

Berklee loves to use my camera (with my supervision)

so I took some time to capture these moments.

You know, the moments where you want

to laugh and cry at the same time.

Those are usually the best.

And I thought I would include some "out-takes" from today.

We all had some good ones.

Four obvious reasons this was Berklee's best out-take.

Funny face.

He never quite grew into his tongue.

This kiss was NOT in the plan. Uck!

Below.

Rowin is really like a third child. He even ignores

me when he is mad and WOULD NOT look at the camera

because I took his stick away from him.

These pictures are already so precious to me.

Worth more than a thousand words.

Hurting

2011-11-07T15:50:00.001-08:00

I'm choking back tears as I type this.
We would ask for your prayers this week as we spend the last few days with our beloved Rowin.
After much prayer and as a last resort we have found a great home where Rowin can be loved for the remainder of his life.
I have decided to be a little relaxed this week and just let Berklee play with him.
I then give her a dose of benedryl as her body quickly starts to react.
Seeing her love for this animal that she can't touch breaks my heart.
Rowin was our first child and I truly can't imagine life without him.
But I am learning to trust the Lord in all of this and know that in this trial I can rejoice because the Lord has a gift for us, whether in this life or the next.

The Urge to Write.......

2011-11-02T18:34:00.000-07:00

...to share parts of my story, has been on my heart lately.

Because of the nature of Shawn's line of work, I am constantly teetering
back and forth about what is appropriate or not to reveal about our lives.
Although technically, Oklahoma is a big place it seems as though the circles of people are
very small.

That being said, I am trusting the Lord to lead me to share every now and then
what's on my heart.

Today that would be a glimpse of self-pity.

Sometimes I throw what I know in my spirit out of the window, stomp
my feet, and have an all out pity party.
I admit that I've had one recently and me, myself, and I showed up.
I look at my life, compare it to someone else's perceived life, and ignore
the proof that God has given me over the last 32 years.
Proof that he is for me and never against me.
Faithful.
True.

What do I do at these parties?

I like to ask questions.
And I stew over the unknown answers.

The why questions are really great. (insert sarcasm)

Lord, why does my husband suffer from chronic pain?

Why does my daughter suffer every day with severe allergies?

Why have you called us to run our own business and
trust you daily to provide?

Why do we have to give up our precious dog Rowin
for the health of our daughter?

Why haven't I been able to get pregnant in the last 3 years?

WHY do we have to pay a small fortune for health insurance?

Why did you call us out of the traditional church
into something that is much more challenging?

WHY, WHY, WHY?
Can you hear the whine in my voice?!

I am understanding more and more the
scripture where Paul talks about doing the things he doesn't want to do.
Our flesh is strong, our spirit is weak.

My parties are ugly and I, the only one there look even uglier.
But try as I may, I go right down the same path.
Doubting the love of the King of the Universe
who also happens to by my Father.
And the crazy thing I have come to believe is that this walk with the Lord doesn't
get any easier! The closer you get God,
the more you see Him,
the uglier you look.

This may be shocking to some of us.
Those who pat ourselves on the back for every act of service or memorization
of a Bible verse or Christian book checked off the reading list, which means I
am on this list.

But think for a moment. It HAS to be true.
The more we see him for who he IS
the more we see ourselves for who we truly are.
Sinners saved only by
GRACE.

At the beginning of my parties I feel so alone and if I am honest,

a little angry at God. But after I'm done shouting, he is there.

He gently whispers his truths into

my ears and I slowly soak them in.

I start looking up again, outside of me.

Sometimes it can take days for my eyes to fully adjust. But in the end,

as the Lord tenderly pulls me up out of the muck

once again I can say that my faith is stronger,

my love for Him is bigger.

I will fall, but I will always follow.

When my eyes finally rest....on Him, I can see that even the difficult

things in life are nothing compared with His glory, or His ways, or eternity.

And from that perspective I can say.....

My husband is the toughest man I know and fights every day to overcome.
My daughter has an amazing attitude and looks forward
to having animals, grass, and trees in her mansion in heaven.
My God HAS provided for us faithfully every day for the last 8 years.
My God HAS provided a wonderful home for Rowin to go to.
I have been blessed with two WONDERFUL children!
Praise God we have insurance!!!
And mixed with the challenges that come with stepping out of the comfort of
traditional church, I can say that what the Lord has called us to burns within me
and His purpose IS being revealed.

As I was wrapping up my party this time, I read something that
will hopefully become life to me as I continue to meditate on it.

It is from a little book by Lance Lambert called "The Prize."

How are we changed? It is not by looking at your self.
Many Christians get this idea: "Oh, I must start to investigate myself.
Am I really like the Lord Jesus?" Well , you thought you were to begin with.
At least there were some traces, but now as you begin to look in ,
you become more and more depressed. But that is not the way the
Lord does it. The Lord deals with you and with me when we
behold the glory of the Lord with an unveiled face, as in a mirror.
That is when we are changed. That is the healthy way because
when you see the Lord, you see your self. Then, when you
have your eyes on the Lord, you know that nothing is impossible,
not even your being changed into His likeness.
So this is a tremendous thing, this matter of being
transformed into the likeness of the Lord Jesus.

Romans 8:29

Random Monday Morning Post!

2011-10-31T10:32:00.001-07:00

I had a great idea! Since Berklee eats like a bird and I feel like I'm constantly
digging up something for her to eat I decided to give the kids a little
freedom. I filled up the bottom fridge drawer with healthy snacks
and as long as they ask first they can go choose their own!

I woke up Sunday morning and this is what I saw. It made me laugh because
I could relate to the dinosaurs expression at seeing dirty clothes piled
on the coffee table from the night before.

This is how your mouth looks while using scissors, if you are Hayden.

My 3 students. LOVE.

Happy Monday!

Purging

2011-10-24T20:11:00.001-07:00

I have been in the purging process for a few weeks now. It feels so good to live with less. The only thing really left is the attic. Dun dun dun...... Not looking forward to that. I wish I had before and after pictures of each room, closet, cabinet, drawer, and pantry. It would surely make it on the 'most shocking' reality show if there was one. :)

But you will just have to trust me or invite yourself over for a tour. Or you could come by our garage sale this weekend.

And what would be a photo blog without some professional iPhone pics!

Happy Monday!

What we've been up to

2011-10-17T19:55:00.001-07:00

And the quote of the day.

Berklee says. Could you talk to Hayden about crying so loud. I couldn't even hear God talk to me this morning.

From My Phone

2011-10-12T20:25:00.001-07:00

Happy Wednesday!

HomeKidsSunflowers

2011-10-10T17:34:00.000-07:00

So we made it back from Texas. It was a nice, quick trip, jam-packed

with adventure. I left the picture taking to the grandma's so

I will share some pics if I ever get any. ;)

Meanwhile, here are some random pictures from my camera this week.

In no particular order.......

1. Fall decor. I.love.fall.

2. I have a love~hate relationship with play dough.

I love that the kids love to play with it and I hate cleaning it up.

3. I love coming in and kissing on this boy after his nap. XOXO

(notice the outfit of his choice. camo shorts, polo shirt on backwards)

4. New hallway art from IKEA. Shawn really liked this and

I was surprised and proud that he loved something funky.

5. Ahhhh. Went to the Sunflower Market and loved everything but

the CROWD. Some of my goodies were delicious tomato bisque soup

from the soup bar, fresh herbs to plant, Burt's Bees' face moisturizer, and of

course, sunflowers!

6. Now that the weather is so glorious, our morning routine includes

playing in the sandbox and swinging before school. We have even

brought our school work out to the back porch a couple of days.

I.love.fall.

7. New IKEA frames with some more foolin' around in Photoshop

and DIY art. I made these for my sister but had to try them out in the kids

bathroom first.

The End.

Happy Monday.

Yummy Power Ball Recipe

2011-09-29T14:41:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd leave you for a few days with a great, healthy,

easy snack you can grab out of the freezer and be instantly satisfied!

The kids call them power {meat}balls!

Happy Thursday!

Word {ART}

2011-09-28T19:36:00.001-07:00

I love making personalized prints for around the house.

Here are two that I've made recently.

They are not fancy, but personal

and meaningful to me.

I smile every time I look at them.

The one below is framed above the toilet in the

half bath. This is Hayden's ultimate description

every time I ask how much he loves me.

And this one is, of course, the touching line from the movie "The Help."

I haven't decided where it's home will be.

Happy Wednesday!
{If you click on the images and print on your best setting they actually come out pretty good.}

Why I am Patting Myself on the Back?

2011-09-27T13:41:00.001-07:00

Because of these.

I loathe shopping for clothes.
Maybe in another life with more style,
money, or time I could see it differently.
But for my life. Nope.

I do however love a good bargain
and have gone to Dillards the last 2 years for end of season swimsuit purchase. (the only items I buy name brand are usually jeans and swimsuits. I've learned it's worth it)

I was almost too late but did not let
a rambunctious 5 year old or
desperately-in-need-of-a-nap
3 year old stop my mission.
Here is the lowdown.

My suit. Regular Price. $140.

I PAID $27!

Berklee's suit. Regular Price $33.

I PAID $4.50!

Okay, today I liked shopping. At check out time only. :)

TMH

A Great Day After Some Not-So-Great Days

S*N*O*W

Change of Plans

The Lost Art of Printing Pictures

Moving On-The Circle of Life

InstaWeekend

Yesterday {always too fast}

Embrace the Camera and a Video

Kids will do almost anything....

With Love From Arizona

Notes from my Notebook

Winter Summit 2012

Funny Stuff for a Thursday

The Purpose of Life, My Take

Road Trip

Conversations

My day and 2 Recipes

Date Night {Wordless Wednesday}

Random Tuesday Photos

InstaFriday

Valentine's Day DIY

Coffee Filter Wreath Tutorial

........Thoughts on Life........

You {&} Me

Crock Pot Roast Beef French Dip

Day in the Life of

On Parenting......

DIY {NO} Headboard Solution

Weekend Rewind

Homeschooling-What We're Doing

Lens Talk- 35mm vs 50mm

No Heat {Sock} Curls While You Sleep!

Focus

Monday

Supermodel vs. Mom {Health Tips} for 2012

Easton Overload!

This Little Guy

The Dinosaur Was Invited

Show Off Your Shot Thursday

Christmas Collage

Family Dynamics...Personality Differences

Around the Corner

**********hope**********

12 Favorite Blogs {2011}

Meet Easton!

2011 A Look Back in IPhone Pics

Chicken Pot Pie Any Way You Like It!

The Better Half

What a Day

Advent {Anticipation}

Holiday Fun with Photoshop!

Tonight I'm Giddy

Instagram Sunday

•••Thanksgiving Número Dos•••

The Season Is Here!

My Saying Says

Free Printable Art

Random things I like

Worth a Thousand Words

Hurting

The Urge to Write.......

Random Monday Morning Post!

Purging

What we've been up to

From My Phone

Home*Kids*Sunflowers

Yummy Power Ball Recipe

Word {ART}

Why I am Patting Myself on the Back?

SNO*W

hope

HomeKidsSunflowers