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Daddy Daughter Dance 2012

2012-02-04T18:56:00.000-08:00

A daughter may outgrow your lap, but she will never outgrow your heart. ~Author Unknown

My 'to do' list in the New Year...

2011-12-31T08:29:00.000-08:00

I know I could 'do' it any day of the year but why not make 2012 the reason I push myself to take the time to really 'do' it so here it goes...my 'to do' list for 2012.

Learn to Sew - Jon bought me a sewing machine last February and it's time I learn to use it. I will take some classes starting in January and hopefully by the end of the year I will be able to sew up some clothing for the girls and curtains for our home.

Take Better Pictures - I took a beginner class called 'Say No to Auto' awhile back but I still have a lot to learn about my camera so with my new iPad2 I think it's time I read some photography books and take time to practice picture taking in the manual mode so I can improve my pictures in 2012.

Take Time to Read - I already started this one with my new iPad Kindle app and I joined a monthly book club to keep me on the right path. I am currently reading The Kitchen House by: Kathleen Grissom. I love how relaxing reading is and I have always enjoyed a good book.

Oh and let me take a moment to share my very FAVORITE thing in 2011 is Pinterest. Really if you haven't checked it out take the time in 2012 because you will love it and probably become addicted to it.

Wishing you all a fabulous New Year! xoxo

Christmas 2011

2011-12-27T19:26:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve 2011

It seems like Christmas comes faster and faster each year, I usually worry I won't have enough time to get it all done but somehow I manage, even if it is the day before when I am 'finished'...maybe there is such a thing as magic?

I was so excited Christmas Eve was on Saturday so we would have all day to enjoy together as a family before we go into the big day. We lazed around in the am, let the kids each open a present before lunch so they would have plenty of day time to enjoy it and we baked Santa's favorite (Jon told the kids these were Santa's favorite) Peanut Butter Temptation Cookies before we headed out for our annual Christmas Eve dinner at Lawry's. After getting the kids to bed Jon and I had a couple hours putting Santa toys out and filling stockings before we went to bed.

Christmas Eve presents:

Paige opened up a Cotton Candy Maker (so easy and fun!)

Aiden a Cars Guess Who Game

Harlow a pink My Own Laptop by Leapfrog

Aiden enjoying some Gingerbread Play-dough on Christmas Eve. Paige helped me make this recipe the day before.

Harlow helping me finish Santa's cookies

The kids insisted that Santa preferred chocolate milk so here it is ready for him

Setting out carrots and hay for the reindeer's...minus a couple that Harlow ate

Mrs. Claus (I think she really should get MORE credit in this whole Christmas story, I mean she does MUCH more than bake cookies...) and Santa finished and ready for bed:

Paige

Aiden

Harlow

Christmas morning I heard the kids wake up at 7am so Jon and I quickly hurried out of bed, Jon grabbed the video camera and I the camera so we could capture the moments forever. They each headed downstairs to check out what Santa brought. They were all so excited about all of their new goodies from Santa. I made us a yummy breakfast casserole for breakfast and then it was time to open the presents under the tree.

Favorite presents 2011:

Paige her purple Fijit named Willa (she asked Santa for this toy), oh gosh I must say it is cute when it does the sprinkler dance

Aiden his marshmallow shooter. Paige and Jon also received one of these so they have had daily marshmallow fights around the house. Our dog Ruby tries to run around and eat the marshmallows on the floor and those she misses I find around the house the following day.

Harlow loves her Baby Alive, she enjoys feeding her new talking doll each day.

Our house still looks like a Christmas mess, we have some cleaning and donating to do before I can get all the new stuff put away. I sure will miss our tree, I love the warmth the little white lights bring into our house.

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and I wish you all a fabulous New Year! xoxo

Making Memories (and some trouble) in December

2011-12-24T07:43:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's already Christmas Eve, I remember when December 1st came around thinking about how much time I had before this day would come but really this month just flew by so fast. We sure had a lot of holiday fun along the way so I thought I would share some of our holiday fun before we head into Christmas day tomorrow.

Our Elf Sam came back the day after Thanksgiving, the kids were thrilled to have him back and this year the Elf on the Shelf movie made a debut making it even more exciting.

The kids were anxious to see Santa and tell him all about what they wanted for Christmas. Paige asked for a Fijit, Aiden said he wanted "boy toys" and Harlow asked for Minnie Mouse.

We purchased our 8" Noble Fir tree the first weekend in December, it was Harlow's turn this year to put the star on the top of the tree. Jon put the lights on the tree two times, the first time he didn't have enough lights on the tree so I had him go out and get us more. He started over making sure to put each strand really close together until it was covered in lights. The kids all helped me put on some ornaments, I did do some re-arranging after they were in bed. ;)

an ornament my Grandmother made and painted for me when I was born

We took our annual trip to Great Wolf Lodge. We swam and played in the water park each day but the hotel has plenty of other fun activities for when you need a break from the water. Paige and Aiden defeated the dragon (with dad's help) and each received a MagiQuest Master button.

Harlow and I spent some time in the arcade and I was lucky at the toy grabber game winning Harlow 2 toys after playing just 3 times, she was thrilled to have a Santa and a Rudolph. The kids enjoyed playing some games of WILEY Bingo in the kids center. Storytime and snow each night was a favorite.

playing WILEY Bingo...each of the kids won a game and got a prize

Harlow was so HAPPY I won her two (I was pretty excited too!) toys, she carried each under her arm so proud!

Paige had a winter themed party at school, she made a polar bear, decorated a snowflake sugar cookie, made paper snowflakes and played winter Pictionary.

Paige with her 2nd Grade Teacher Mrs. Helms

Aiden had a holiday party at his pre-school, he sang Christmas songs, enjoyed lunch with his classmates and had a present exchange.

We decorated a gingerbread house...of course a few candies never made it on to the house.

for each candy Harlow put on she would eat one...

I took the kids to Bass Pro Shop for a day of Christmas fun, they have the most beautiful reindeer carousel along with some other holiday games and activities for the kids to do.

quick picture before we headed out for the day...

Hot Cocoa at Starbucks before looking at Christmas Lights in Highland Park Village.

Now let me keep it real here and share a few of our not so great moments this month. Harlow threw and broke a couple ornaments off of the tree. One of them she actually pulled off the silver top, filled up with water from the fridge leaving a water mess all over the fridge and kitchen floor and then AFTER filling it with water threw it over by the fireplace leaving another big water mess along with broken ornament glass.

Harlow also decided to unwrap a few presents while I was in the shower one day last week, thankfully the big kids were upstairs so I was able to whisk her, the wrapping paper pieces and the presents into my room for damage control. I re-wrapped all of the presents exactly the same and put them back out as fast as I could. Harlow had opened one of Jon's, Aiden's and one that was hers wrapped in Blue's Clues wrapping paper. She kept saying, "I open my Blue Clues present".

Just yesterday, Paige and Aiden went into our bedroom closet (aka Santa's closet during the month of December) to get a pair of daddy's shoes to play dress-up. I noticed the closet door open when I went into our bedroom. When I confronted them at first they tried to point the blame on each other until they admitted they both had gone in.

I couldn't just ask about what or how much they had seen, part of me didn't really want to know...what if they saw it all and put the whole picture together realizing that Santa is really just mom and dad? I had to assume though they saw something since Jon had started building some large Playmobil sets and I had a few toys on my side of the closet that weren't in the bags so I had a long chat with Paige and Aiden explaining that sometimes our Elf Sam brings and puts together toys before Christmas making Santa's job easier but if you see them before Christmas the Elf will be in trouble and Santa might want to take the toys back.

Because of this incident I wrapped more toys this year, I wrapped the toys they might have seen peeking out of bags with hopes it all works out and they keep believing the magic of Santa (and his very helpful elves). Speaking of Santa, I better get off here and get to work making the magic happen. xoxo

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas!

A Big Girl Bed for Harlow

2011-12-03T19:53:00.000-08:00

Earlier today Jon took apart Harlow's crib to make room for her new big girl bed. It was such an exciting milestone, although I felt a little bit sad that my 'baby' wasn't such a baby anymore but was on her way to becoming a big girl. We had never retired the crib so this was the first time in 7 years we were taking it apart and putting it away. Ok enough with the sad talk, let's get back to the exciting milestone.

Harlow was thrilled to get a big girl bed of her very own, her big sister and brother were just as excited as she was. After pictures/video, a few unauthorized jumps on her bed and a book she couldn't wait to get tucked-in bed but after the lights went out she had a change of heart. She started to cry, she jumped out of bed and pointed to go out of her room. I brought back in her small baby pillow that she used in her crib and put her on her bed tummy side down as I would have put her in her crib and she quickly settled in for sleep. She never came out of her room so her first night in a big girl bed was a success. I plan on sneaking in her room before I go to bed to see how my big girl is sleeping.

We still have some rearranging to do in her room but we ran out of time today so for now I just have pictures of Harlow in her new bed.

Paige & Aiden couldn't wait to join Harlow for a story in her new bed

harlow evelyn 27 months old

sweet dreams, we love you xoxo mom & dad

Pumpkin Picking Time

2011-10-16T19:44:00.001-07:00

It was time for us to go to our local pumpkin patch and let each of the kids pick out a pumpkin. This pumpkin patch also has a hay maze, a hay ride, 2 bounce houses, a few games and of course a lot of pumpkins. The kids had a great time running around playing and we had several hay rides by the time we were finished.

We will carve our pumpkins next weekend and I will roast up some of the pumpkin seeds. We also did our annual BOO-ing this weekend, I will work on another Blog post to share some pictures with you all.

Harlow took this picture when we were on the hay ride...

I love Paige's boots...I really need to get myself a pair

The cutest little girl in the patch. Harlow's dress is by Matilda Jane and boots are by Joyfolie.

Our 3 Perfect Pumpkins - 2011

Happy Fall Y'all!!!

My Little Slugger #31

2011-09-18T08:04:00.000-07:00

It only took me one game to realize how much I loved watching my little man play baseball. I look forward to game day each Saturday.

Aiden is so excited to be #31 on the Tigers team this season, he has a great team with a really good coach. I hope both his talent and love for the game continue to grow because I sure would love to see him play each year. I took some pictures of his 3rd game yesterday.

Go Tigers!!!

Reading with Love

2011-06-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

Both Paige and Aiden really enjoy reading to Harlow and one night last week Jon recorded Aiden reading to her using his iPhone, it was such a precious moment between them.

Toddler Trouble Thursday

2011-05-26T18:45:00.001-07:00

I was trying to get stuff together for a craft I was hosting for my playgroup this morning and just when I was finished and was ready to start getting the kids dressed I find Harlow covered in marker. I asked her if she touched markers and she shook her head, looked away and said, "noooo".

She wore some of her 'art' all day because I couldn't get it all washed off.

Sleeping Beauty and the Roly-Poly

2011-05-24T14:05:00.000-07:00

Today I took the kids to a playdate over at a local community center to play with friends and lucky for me it's next to this beautiful nature preserve. I always keep that in mind when getting the kids dressed for this monthly event because I like to snap a few pictures before we head in to play.

It's been raining here on and off the past few days so Aiden kept entertained outside playing with several roly-poly bugs while Harlow ran around in the mud. Both the lighting and weather were just perfect so I was ok with the mud.

Harlow is wearing a Platinum Matilda Jane Sleeping Beauty Ellie, my very favorite Joyfolie shoes and I made the butterfly headband to match.

Aiden is wearing Gap and a roly-poly bug...LOL!

Hope your all having a terrific Tuesday!

Flutterfly

2011-05-21T20:34:00.000-07:00

I was so excited the morning of the Butterfly Festival, I look forward to this event every year. I laid out the 'perfect' outfit for Harlow the night before with great anticipation of getting some amazing pictures with her and the butterflies. I knew I could get some candid pictures of Aiden playing with the butterflies.

With camera in hand I couldn't wait to get into that butterfly tent, Aiden dashed off with a smile from ear to ear and Harlow, well she clung to me for dear-life. I had her a few steps from my leg for just a few minutes but just then a butterfly landed on her eye lash, she freaked out and back on my hip she went.

Harlow and I followed Aiden around in the tent taking pictures of him while he happily played with the butterflies. I held out hope that Harlow would get back down and give it another chance but instead she clung to me crying and pointing out each 'flutterfly' as she called them that even came close to us with much distress in her voice. I was able to sneakily place a butterfly on her back and on her headband for a picture or two but that was about all I could get this year.

Aiden with his friend Tommy

So pretty!

I did bring home a chrysalis for both Paige and Aiden. We all enjoyed watching the butterfly emerge and then releasing them. Surprisingly, Harlow stood calmly and watched me release each one calling out the "flutterfly" with much excitement as it flew away. Maybe there is hope for next year?

Tea for Two...a mother's dream comes true!

2011-05-16T17:23:00.001-07:00

Oh how I dreamed of this day, I remember being pregnant with Paige thinking of all of the girly fun we would have together and I was beyond thrilled when it was time for our first big tea party.

The Alice in Wonderland themed Mother/Daughter Tea was so much fun. Paige loved the candy bar, surprisingly she enjoyed her first time drinking tea and one of the charities gave out a stuffed bear to each little girl, she named her red bear Hearts. I really enjoyed our one-on-one time together, the fashion show and of course the picture opportunities. Paige even received the tea party patch for her new Brownie Girl Scout vest.

It was such a wonderful day and an event I will look forward to attending every year, I can't wait for Harlow to join Paige and I in a couple of years. If you know me, you know I already have a dress ready and waiting for Harlow's first tea.

Fabulous mini-hat by Lisa's Mini-Mad Hattery

Beautiful dress and ruffle capris by Isadora

She was thrilled to fill up her candy bag at the candy bar.

Paige with Miss Frisco, TX

We sat with some friends at our table, Paige was so happy that her friend Angie was able to join us for some tea.

Alice was racing around at the tea but I stopped her for a quick picture.

Excited about 'rock candy' and loving every sweet bite!

Picture perfect!

As soon as Harlow woke from nap she wanted to try on Paige's pretty hat and I snapped a quick picture before she ran away wearing it.

Embracing Our Lone Star State

2011-04-03T07:53:00.000-07:00

It was that time again, yes time to take the kids to the TX Bluebonnets. It's tradition, I have taken them every year and although at first I don't feel much excitement to take the kids out to the wildflower fields I have always been pleasantly surprised with how much fun I end up having taking pictures of them running around.

I guess it's one of the few places I don't have to worry about safety because they could run and run seemingly without an end. I have yet to get that 'perfect' group picture that I dream of but I still felt like a winner this year since no one cried and all of them seemed to have had a good time.

Looking back...

This year at the Blubonnets...

I like to get over to the un-touched fields but a fence does come between my 'vision' so first we need to climb over it before taking some pictures

Paige's outfit is by eden's bouqet

Harlow's beautiful dress is eden's bouquet and flowers are by Joyfolie

Aiden insisted that his pictures be taken on the fence

Since we are on the topic of embracing our Lone Star State, last month we took the kids down to the Ft. Worth Stockyards for the first time. We had a really great day watching the parade, seeing the Cattle Drive come down the street and enjoying our bbq basket dinners on the patio of one of the restaurants. Paige and Aiden on a Longhorn.

This past Friday Paige had western themed day at her school so here was my fashionista take on a cowgirl, Paige thought she looked 'fancy' so I told her she was an 'upperclass cowgirl'. She has insisted on wearing her new boots everyday and even her little sister has enjoyed wearing them around the house.

Swords and Flowers

2011-03-22T14:36:00.000-07:00

Big brother Aiden was by her side using sticks as swords as Harlow took her time to pick some flowers.

so sweet...giving his sister a flower

dancing amongst the leaves

beautiful knot dress by Matilda Jane

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!!!

2011-03-02T19:25:00.001-08:00

Today the kids and I celebrated Dr. Seuss's birthday with a themed playdate over at a friends house. I brought along a hat craft, our stuffed Cat in the Hat, a Green Eggs & Ham book tucked inside of a Dr. Seuss backpack. Oh and Harlow just happened to have the perfect Dr. Seuss dress by Sweet Plume.

Poor Cat in the Hat being dragged around like that!

I brought along supplies so each child could make their own striped hat

So fun!

My friend Kristy served the kids Green Eggs & Ham.

Even after I read the Green Eggs & Ham book to the kids, Aiden wasn't so sure about actually eating green eggs (he doesn't even like eggs) & ham...

but he did try them and he still wasn't a fan.

Harlow however was and she ate everything on her plate.

It was so much fun celebrating such a beloved author of so many of our favorite books.

Snow Much Fun

2011-01-10T14:37:00.000-08:00

We were so excited to get snow again this year, the kids couldn't wait to get out and play in it. The best part about snow in TX is it only lasts for a day or two and then it's gone. We took the kids out yesterday while it was still snowing and then I took Aiden and Harlow out again today while the groung was still covered in snow.

I think we could benefit from some snow bibs and gloves, the kids wanted to play outside longer but we just couldn't make our winter coats and mittens work for the freezing cold and wet snow. At least the big kids and I had rainboots. In any case we had fun, Paige built a snowman yesterday and Aiden enjoyed kicking him down today. Harlow enjoyed just running around outside.

using our Bilibo to slide down the hill

Harlow's adorable Owl hat is by Snap-Happy Boutique

love her litte foot prints running down the driveway

Aiden sharing his snow with his sister

so glad I bought these rainboots from Target this year, they really have been put to good use

Blogs that make Me Happy...Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T17:58:00.000-08:00

I was thinking back on my year and the things I really enjoyed doing, one of them being reading beautiful Blogs. Reading a good Blog is usually just what I need for a little downtime while the kids nap or sometimes to get some inspiration.

I wish I had an iPad so I could spend more time reading these beautiful Blogs or hey, even better so I could make more time writing on my own Blog. I think I will put that on my 'wish' list for the New Year, it seems like the perfect way to 'stay connected' when I can't be at my computer which is most of the time chasing after 3 kids.

My favorite Blog by far is Kelle Hampton's enjoying the small things, her entires are all so inspirational and her pictures are all sooooo beautiful.

I love keeping up with my crafty on-line friends, so many of them have great Blogs:

Joyfolie - yes you knew already that these are my very favorite shoes for Harlow but also I love reading her Blog because her talent and pictures are both so inspiring.

Joyfolie has a fur wrap giveaway going on right now over on the Blog so hurry and enter by tomorrow night.... crossing fingers that I win it.

Dear Lillie - love the Blog and I LOVE to shop all things Dear Lillie

Evy's Tree - my favorite Hoodies ever!

Forty Toes - Jenn takes some really beautiful pictures of her gorgeous daughter Stella Marie and also has a fabulous Etsy store

Princy n Paris - has some of the sweetest hair accessories in her Etsy store

Just this past week I have found another couple of Blogs that I also really enjoy reading, one of them is the Roseland family Blog, Jenni seems like such a fun mother that I can really relate to. She is also very generous, she has a wonderful Matilda Jane giveaway I hope to win for Harlow.

The other is ashleyannphotography Under The Sycamore Blog, she has a really great DIY project section.

I could go on and on, I really love a good Blog and lucky for me so many have them.

I have a few resolutions for my New Year. I would love to learn to sew. I just need a sewing machine first so I can get started on the 'learning' part. I also want to learn to use my camera, I think I need to take a local class so I can start to 'own' my camera in the manual settings. Lastly, I hope to stay-up on the laundry. With a 5 person household and Harlow in cloth diapers it almost seems impossible not to have laundry on the couch but my hope is I can come up with a schedule in the New Year making it easier in some way.

So that's it, now it's time to sit on the couch with Jon and greet the New Year just before heading to bed. Wishing you all a very Happy New Year filled with much love and happiness!!!

Ho Ho Ho it's Santa time 2010

2010-12-25T17:19:00.000-08:00

It's always so exciting to get to play Santa, I set everything out and Jon is the official 'builder'. I think my favorite part is seeing all of my hard work come together, when I see it all on display it's always picture perfect.

My favorite purchases this year was Paige's pink 16GB Nano, Aiden's Darth Vader Sleeping Bag and Harlow's vintage Sesame Street playset with all the figurines that I won on Ebay. I think the kids would agree those were some of the favorite Santa toys this year.

We started Christmas day at 7am, the kids checked out their Santa loot, I made some cinnamon rolls for breakfast, after breakfast it was time to open presents and then it was time to play with all the new goodies.

After getting dressed we Skyped with my sister Jennifer and her family and of course played some more until it was time to enjoy our Honeybaked Ham dinner. After baths, we played a couple games with the kids before putting them to bed.

Aiden wanted to sleep in his new sleeping bag so he invited Paige to sleep in his room with hers but he couldn't stay quiet enough for the 'sleep' part so Paige wanted to go back to her room; Aiden stayed in his sleeping bag and quickly fell asleep after settling down. Jon started a fire and he and I watched the very funny movie 'National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation'.

Christmas Eve

they each opened a present

Mrs. Claus on Christmas Eve

hay and carrots for the reindeer

more reindeer food on the grass

milk and fresh-baked cookies for Santa

Aiden's Christmas - Mighty Beanz, Darth Vadar sleeping bag, cars, Pillow Pet, double Lightsaber and Super Mario figures

Harlow's Christmas - Happy Blankie Pig, Little Giraffe Pillow, vintage Sesame Street toys, Joyfolie shoes, doll clothes, toys and Coupe Car (below)

Paige's Christmas - mini-Lalaloopsy, pink nano, nightgown, Imogen's Garden doll, doll clothes, art supplies and Hello Kitty stuff

squinkies are a favorite

crayon making

we made new rainbow crayons

our youngest Jedi

beep...beep

Harlow enjoying her new Clickeroos

Paige's new doll Calantha with Harlow's doll Aster dressed in fabulous Melamoose Co. clothes

My house is still a mess from all of the toys but I think it's fun to leave it out for a few days to enjoy Christmas a little longer. I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas, you can tell we did.

Holiday Fun in December

2010-12-23T07:21:00.000-08:00

Wow I can't believe it's almost Santa time, really the month of December just flew by. The best thing about December is all of the fun things you can do together as a family and we did A LOT of them. I did my best keeping up with our Avent calendar and Jon helped me with moving our Elf Sam around the house.

Here's some pictures of our very fun filled month of December.

Paige drew our Elf Sam a picture

Harlow was so cute running around with this Santa hat.

While the two younger kids napped Paige painted some wooden ornaments for the tree.

When Aiden woke-up from nap it was time to put the star on top of the tree.

It was Aiden's first year getting to put the star on the tree, Paige had done it in previous years.

Our beautiful 9 ft tree

Ever since we went to Great Wolf Lodge the kids have begged to go back so we used some of the holiday funds and surprised them with a one-night visit.

Aiden making an ornament with the Frisco mom's group that I organize.

Paige's gingerbread themed party at school.

Decorating our gingerbread house.

Harlow was helping us clean the spatula...

Paige had begged for Clarice so we put more of the holiday funds to good use and took the kids for some fun at Build-A-Bear.

Aiden made a Snow Monster.

Downtown Frisco Christmas activities

I always love watching the hot-air balloons glow

Paige, Aiden and Jon all enjoyed some fun in the snow tubes.

I guess this will be my last Blog post until I share our Christmas with you so let me take this time to wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas.

Beautiful At Any Length - Paige's Haircut

2010-12-19T08:12:00.000-08:00

Paige had been asking for awhile now to go get her haircut short so we decided to start our day with her haircut over at Sweet & Sassy. When Paige first mentioned getting her long Rapunzel like hair cut off I explained that she could donate her hair to someone who needed it. Paige loved that idea and was really enthusiastic to make a hair donation. On top of helping a great cause she can also get a Girl Scout badge to commemorate her good deed.

There are a couple different charities you can donate your hair to, after hearing about the Locks of Love program that makes hairpieces for children it seemed right for Paige's hair donation but Pantene also has a great hair donation program called Beautiful Lengths that makes hairpieces for women with cancer.

So 13" of hair was cut-off to make Paige's new super cute short hair style and is now a pony in a bag ready to be donated.

It was such a big exciting change, it's so different to see Paige with her short hair and I think it made her look a little younger (want to keep my oldest as young as I can for as long as I can).

Adorable outfit by Loves Me Not Clothing

...just after the rough cut for the donation

SO CUTE!

Tickles & Giggles at Bedtime

2010-12-14T20:00:00.000-08:00

This past week I had a plan to keep my camera within reach and take pictures of the everyday stuff, this night in particular was bedtime.

It was when I looked at these pictures I realized how much fun we all have together in those last 30 minutes before bed.

tickles from daddy

tucking her little lamb into bed

giggles

running around

silly girl

So very very Thankful for it All

2010-11-26T17:17:00.000-08:00

Adorable Indian shirts by EMTanner Designs. and sweet double ruffle pants are Eden's Bouquet

I think my title says it all, I am really so thankful for everything. My family and I were invited to spend Thanksgiving over at my good friend Amy's house, she was the perfect hostess from appetizers to pumpkin pies and everything in-between. The kids had a great time playing together and I brought a couple crafts to keep them entertained.

The most exciting part of the day was Harlow taking some serious consecutive steps, she had taken a few steps early in the week but on Thanksgiving she really started moving those sweet little feet.

Before we left the house I asked each of them to tell me what they were most thankful for (let's assume they are all thankful for family) ...

Aiden isn't much for pictures these days, get ready for when you see our Christmas card picture :)

In case you didn't know all of Harlow's sweet little shoes are by Joyfolie

Taking some serious steps on Thanksgiving

Family Fun at the TX Fair

2010-10-19T19:49:00.000-07:00

We were so excited to get to go to the TX State Fair again this year and even better it didn't rain like it did last year (although I did miss seeing Oprah like I did last year).

We kicked-off our day by going on the 212-foot ferris wheel (well minus Jon, he isn't a fan of those heights), lots and lots of rides for the kids, a yummy lunch, more kid rides, a sweet treat break...my favorite being the 'fried cookie dough', then the kids pretended to 'work on the farm' and just before the end of our fun filled day Paige took part in the 'Circus'.

Yup, that little head you see is Harlow who fussed the entire ride because she really wanted to squeeze her head between the safety bars

Aiden was bummed he didn't meet the height requirements to ride all of the rides his big sister Paige did but some he just needed an adult to ride with, Jon and I enjoyed taking turns riding with our little man.

Happy Harlow

Harlow's beautiful Cala Dress and Lila Flower Belt are by Joyfolie

Sweet treats at the Fair...I didn't get a picture of it but I tell you the fried cookie dough was the BEST!

Paige's fabulous Butterfly dress is by Imogen's Garden on Etsy

Pretending to work on the farm

Harlow cheering on her big sister in the Circus

Paige was a beautiful butterfly

Such a great day, we can't wait go go again next year!

Do you Boo? WE DO!!!

2010-10-13T17:10:00.000-07:00

So cute in matching glow-in-the-dark skeleton pj's and armed with glow-sticks!

So sorry I haven't been updating my Blog, I guess once Paige started school it's just been busy busy with one thing or another but hey, at least I am back and that's what counts right?

Halloween is my favorite holiday, so many great decorations, fun crafts to do with the kids, so many fun traditions (like 'Boo-ing'), pumpkin patches, costume parties and of course trick-or-treating Halloween night.

Ok, so one of my favorite traditions to do with the kids is to go 'Boo-ing' and it doesn't really cost anything to do since you probably have some of it around your house already. Just grab a bag (any size will do), fill it with some goodies/candy (I usually do small Halloween favor type toys topped with some candy) and don't forget to include the instructions about the 'Boo'. I found these FREE super cute printables over at Lil Boo & Co.

Grab some glow-sticks for the kids and head out to get your 'Boo' on, the kids will love it and if you get lucky you might get a 'Boo' back! We do it every year and have also been lucky to get a 'Boo' back as well :)

Here's some of our 'Boo-ing' pictures from Monday night...

If you buy Halloween toy favors from Oriental Trading they will last forever, I swear I have been using the same little favors for years now along with these bags ;)

So excited to go and 'Boo!'

Jon explaining to Aiden what to do...

We were hiding at the side of the house, waiting to hear the door open and close before we went on to do another. We usually 'Boo' 2-3 houses.

Hope your all enjoying the month of October as much as we are.

First Day of School - Paige is in 1st Grade

2010-08-23T07:24:00.000-07:00

Today was Paige's first day back at school, seems like yesterday I was dropping her off in her Kindergarten class and now here we are already in 1st Grade.

Paige was really ready to go back to school so this morning was filled with so much excitement, lots of pictures, a few hugs and some throw-up from Harlow (Harlow has a cold, ear infection?).

Here are some pictures from this morning, I can't wait to hear about her first day back.

Paige had a few first day clothing choices but she quickly chose to wear the Sparkle TEE I made her which can be found here

Paige got this messenger bag at her birthday and decorated it all herself; she was so excited to use it today (although I do have a new backpack headed our way as well).

Aiden was not as excited to have to say goodbye to his sister and friend for the day

Here's a few from Friday at 'Meet the Teacher' night

Paige's shirt and ruffles are from eden's bouquet's Saturday Market Collection

Well off to play play-doh with my little man Aiden before an early nap.

Paige & Harlow Model for Two Monkey's Designs

2010-08-20T18:54:00.001-07:00

It was so exciting have my girls get to model for such a beautiful clothing brand like Two Monkey's Designs, it's a bonus that the fabulous designer Karen lives just a few minutes up the street from me.

The photographer Jael DeYoung took some amazing pictures at the photoshoot at Chestnut Square in downtown McKinney.

Big thank you to both Karen for letting my girls model for you and Jael for capturing some amazing pictures of my girls. Both the memories of the photoshoot and the pictures of it are priceless!

If your interested in purchasing any of these gorgeous outfits from Two Monkey's Designs new Woodbury Collection it can be found here in her Etsy store.

My favorire picture, can't wait to get this one in a frame.

I have a cd coming my way with more pictures so stay tuned for another picture share.

Hosting a Matilda Jane Fall Line Show

2010-08-02T12:28:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make mention here on my Blog that Matilda Jane's NEW fall line called Field Trip is being released on August 6th and I am hosting a show on August 7th.

You don't have to 'attend' the show to order, all you have to do is contact my trunk keeper Tifani directly to place an order and it will be shipped directly to you!!!

Tifani Hesser

Texas Trunk Keeper

Matilda Jane Clothing Company

email: tifanih@matildajaneclothing.com

phone: (214) 538-1983

You don't want to miss this line, I love the fall colors and the patterns she used this season.

Oh and did I mention they even have a dress named 'Harlow' how neat is that?! Ok so without further delay here are some pictures from Field Trip, you can view the entire collection on the website.

Oh if you need any more convincing that this line is fabulous, see these beautiful pictures by Helmuth Photography Facebook Page and you will 'have to have' every piece of Field Trip.

Please let me know if you have any questions, thanks so much for your support.

One of my favorite brands to buy for myself is Matilda Jane, here are just a few of my favorites from this line

Standing Pretty

2010-07-28T17:03:00.000-07:00

Oh Harlow it seems like just yesterday I watched you swim into your daddy's arms and now here we are at 11 months with your first birthday only a couple of weeks away.

I took Paige and Aiden to a Summer Camp session today so I could catch up on some laundry and cleaning around the house but before all of that not so fun stuff I enjoyed some 1-on-1 time just hanging with Harlow.

Harlow just started standing a week ago but the past few days she has been perfecting her newfound skill by standing all the time. I know it won't be long before she starts walking along the furniture and then running around the house.

I took some pictures of Harlow today just before I woke her from her nap to get Paige and Aiden at Summer Camp and then some of her standing pretty at the couch.

I also never shared her 10 month pictures on Lulu (see below after today's pictures) and of course in a day or two will have her 11 month pictures to share with you all as well. Oh how quickly the first year goes.

Sleeping Beauty

Oh how sweet are you standing on those little feet

Fabulous Polka Dot Bloomers by Eden's Bouquet

I guess since I woke up sleeping beauty early from her nap today when we had to get Paige and Aiden she was tired and fell asleep in her highchair just after finishing her cookies after I fed her dinner

Harlow's 10 month pictures...

Culpepper General Grow Baby Onesie, Joyfolie Hair clip and Belle in Blue Shoes with Eden's Bouquet Villa Ruffle Skirt

Peek...

...-A-Boo

Girl Scouts ROCK

2010-07-11T16:55:00.000-07:00

Paige's Girl Scout Troop got together today for a rock themed craft and party. The girls each got to decorate their own guitar and then formed a super cool 'all girl' band and played rock-band together. I even dressed up Harlow so she would be rockin' the themed party.

I could totally see Paige in a band someday

Harlow had a great time dancing to the music

Paige did a great job on the drums

Harlow just wasn't in the mood to stay still for pictures today

Paige's First Sleepover

2010-07-10T08:22:00.000-07:00

Paige had been asking for a sleeping bag and a friend to sleepover for quite sometime now so for her 6th birthday I bought her this sweet sleeping bag from Pottery Barn Kids and invited her best gal pal Madison on over for a sleepover. Of course I had a bunch of fun stuff planned for the girls to do and even got them to sleep shortly after 10pm.

Oh and you will see that I actually had two Princesses for this sleepover, they were so cute dressing-up in different costumes.

First the girls played some Wii together

Then it was time to make their own pizza for dinner...yummy!

After dinner the girls painted their snacks for their movie.

I got this great idea from the Living Locurto Blog.

Then it was time for bed or at the very least time to get in their sleeping bags next to their American Girl dolls and have some girl chat with a flashlight before they finally fell asleep.

When I woke-up I already had my 2 Princesses ready for some breakfast.

Paige really enjoyed her first sleepover and is already asking when we can have another one.

My 2 Beautiful Girls

2010-07-10T07:14:00.000-07:00

I took these pictures this past week of Paige and Harlow and they came out so cute I just had to share them with you.

Paige and her doll Molly are wearing super dresses by chimi and changa.

Harlow is wearing her newest pair of Joyfolie shoes called 'Cherrie' with the coordinating hair clip from the 'surprise hair clip' set. Joyfolie has a few uploads coming up so hurry on over to the Joyfolie Facebook page or the Joyfolie Blog for more information.

I have been asked a few times about the dress Harlow is wearing, it's by Paper Wings and you can get it here.

Peek-A-Boo Harlow's new favorite game to play

Paige and Aiden wanted to get in for a picture

Red, White & Blue so Lucky to have the 3 of You!

2010-07-04T09:16:00.001-07:00

Well TX decided to celebrate the 4th on the 3rd since this year the holiday fell on a Sunday so yesterday was our '4th of July' filled with fun and fireworks.

I decided to forgo the 4th of July outfits this year since we usually end up at a pool or hanging out late in the night so when I saw these patriotic pajamas at Chasing Fireflies I knew they were perfect and practical.

I got a little worried when it started to rain early evening just after Jon finished grilling our steaks for dinner but thankfully, it stopped just an hour and a half before the fireworks went off.

I came prepared with glow-sticks, PEZ and snapping fireworks for the kids to keep them busy while we waited for the fireworks to start. Paige and Aiden decided it was more fun to pour out the bag of snappers and step on them all to hear the 'pop'.

I wasn't sure how Harlow would take to the firework noise but she wasn't bothered a bit sitting on my lap and quickly went to sleep when we got back in the car. I had hoped that the kids would sleep in this morning since we were out so late but nope they were ready to go get Starbucks with Jon and I to start our Sunday.

Paige 6 years old

Aiden 3 years old

Harlow 10 months old

Not sure what we are going to do today but I hope we can get in some nice family time together and planned on grilling some burgers for dinner. Wishing you all a fabulous 4th of July!

NEW Sparkle added to my Sparkle Your Kids Etsy store

2010-07-03T09:03:00.000-07:00

I hadn't shared some of my new Sparkle items here on my Blog and I also realized that I need to make a grab button made for my Etsy shop, so that will be coming soon.

I have definitely been keeping busy making both custom items and samples for my shop. I re-released my very popular 'Sparkle Your Name' shirt that now comes with a fabric flower pin and I also made 'Sparkle for Your Hair' which currently has a couple different types of hair flowers with a Swarovski crystal in the center.

I have a 10% off discount special going on now through the weekend (I refund this after your purchase is made)! You can stack this already reduced SALE items.

I was trying to get her to smile so I said, 'peek-a-boo' and well probably not my best idea to get a good picture of her Sparkle shirt but in any case she sure was CUTE!

Custom guitar order for a rockin' party!

Each of my girls' will be wearing this patriotic flower today

So if you haven't already, please become a fan of my Sparkle Your Kids Facebook page to see preview pictures, discount codes and great giveaways!

Beautiful Ballerina

2010-06-27T07:38:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things about dance is getting to go to the dance recital. It's so exciting to watch Paige perform on stage. My dad and Connie came for a short visit so they could watch her perform. We arrived early so we could get front row seats to watch our favorite little dancer perform.

Paige had two performances, the first was a ballet routine to 'Do Re Mi' from 'The Sound of Music' and her other was a jazz routine to the chipmunk version of 'I Got a Feeling'. She did such a great job and you could tell she really enjoyed dancing on stage. I of course couldn't get enough pictures of my beautiful ballerina.

The best part now is that Paige can wear her costumes as 'dress-ups' and she wears her ballet costume just about everyday while playing around the house....actually she is wearing it now.

Paige with her grandma and grandpa

Another Store I Love - Dear Lillie

2010-06-26T14:49:00.001-07:00

I featured Dear Lillie on my Blog a month or so back and since then have purchased a few more goodies from this fabulous on-line store. My favorites are the rosette tanks and tutu's, I already have 2 of the rosette tanks and Harlow has 2 of the precious tutu's. Every item they make is fabulous, Dear Lillie always has great customer service, quick shipping and items come beautifully packaged.

It's so great to have a store that has beautiful clothing for both women and children as well as accents for the home.

Oh and I can't forget to mention they are having a giveaway over on their Dear Lillie Blog, crossing my fingers (as always) that I can win it.

Saturday's great Giveaway at Eden's Bouquet

2010-06-26T13:03:00.000-07:00

Today's giveaway is for a surprise package from the newest line at Eden's Bouquet called the Saturday Market Collection. I am still holding out hope that I can win one of these fabulous giveaways this week but you should take your own chance and enter for a chance to win.

My favorite from this collection are these fabulous Pintuck Bloomers. I have been longing for these for Harlow since the collection released a few weeks ago.

Oh I hope I can win this eden's bouquet giveaway!

2010-06-25T13:44:00.001-07:00

You all know how much I love eden's bouquet so I sure do hope today is my lucky day to win this giveaway of a 4 piece Hazel set for Harlow. I love ivory and the lace details are fabulous!

Did you know that beyond the fabulous vintage inspired clothes she has a flea market page where she sells her fabulous finds? I hope she finds another vintage cake stand, I could really use one and missed out on buying the last one she had for sale.

Keeping fingers crossed that I can win one of these great giveaways this week.

Oh Eden's Bouquet and your Fabulous Giveaway

2010-06-24T11:20:00.000-07:00

My favorite clothing brand eden's bouquet is having a giveaway everyday this week and I don't think it comes any better than a chance to win a $100 giftcard, here's crossing my fingers that I can win this one.

Go check out eden's bouquet, I promise you will fall in love with everything.

YAY for another Eden's Bouquet Giveaway!

2010-06-23T13:49:00.000-07:00

Today's eden's bouquet giveaway is for my favorite pair of ruffle jeans; Paige has a pair and she wears them all the time. I can't wait for Harlow to get a pair too, the smallest size they come in is a size 2 which if I won is the size I would want so they will be ready and waiting for Harlow. Oh how I love these ruffle jeans and actually I love everything at eden's bouquet!

Fabulous Fleur L'enfant

2010-06-23T07:04:00.000-07:00

It was love at first sight with this brand when I saw the 'vintage vest' by Fleur L'enfant. I love just about anything vintage inspired for my girls for so many reasons.

First off, I love how well it photographs. You just can't beat those ivory and light brown colors in pictures. Secondly, I love how classy and timeless it all is. And maybe most importantly, I love how versatile it is because you can mix-n-match it with so many other clothing pieces.

The vintage jackets for instance would go with just about everything my girls have in their closets so I hope to get each of my girls a vest for their fall wardrobe. I would love to get Harlow the 'vintage jacket' and Paige the 'vintage rose jacket'.

So go check out this fabulous clothing brand, I promise you will love it!

Paige's Toy Story III in 3D Movie Party

2010-06-22T13:06:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when I heard the release date on the new Toy Story III movie that I knew it would be the perfect party for Paige's birthday. Toy Story has always been a favorite movie in this house and Paige loves going to the movies so it was meant to be. Our movie theater has a really nice party room and they even decorated it with Toy Story decorations.

I brought a few more Toy Story decorations to make the room over-the-top, along with Toy Story III tattoos, a 3D look-alike button for each child attending (you can customize each button...more details below), alien cupcakes made by ME (I know surprising huh? and I thought they turned out pretty cute) and a Popcorn favor bucket filled with Toy Story stuff of course!

Popcorn buckets with yellow 'popcorn' frizzle filled with either a Woody/Buzz PEZ, Toy Story fruit snacks, limited edition Toy Story sticker and a mini-popcorn.

Here they are all wrapped up with a thank you tag and a Toy Story character tag

I gave each child attending a look-alike 3D button to wear, these buttons matched the fabulous 3D movie invitations (the invites come with a magnet on the back so invitees can quickly attach it to their refrigerator and they also came with a matching sticker for the envelope) by HMC Designs on Etsy.

Happy 6th Birthday Paige!

Paige has worn this tiara on her birthday since her 1st birthday

We love you Paige!

So excited to get the 3D glasses

Ready for the movie

While we were packing-up Paige and Aiden were playing Paige's new Toy Story toys

An eden's bouquet Giveaway!

2010-06-22T12:56:00.001-07:00

Oh how I adore all things eden's bouquet and I would love to win this beautiful Gwendolyn dress she is having for today's giveaway.

So go now and check out this beautiful brand of fine children's clothing and don't forget to make your own entry for a chance to win the dress.

Jon You Are A SuperDad

2010-06-20T15:36:00.000-07:00

Our kids sure are lucky to have the best SuperDad in the world.

Jon works so hard to provide the best for our family but at the same time is always open arms to help with the kids and also makes plenty of time to play with them.

This Father's Day morning was just like every Sunday morning because the kids always spend it with their dad. Jon takes the kids every Sunday morning (for the past 4 years) to get donuts and Starbucks to bring back home. We enjoy our donuts together and then the kids enjoy the morning playing the Wii with their dad while I get some time to craft in the office.

Jon had mentioned he needed a picture for his desk at work so I knew the perfect gift for Father's Day would be just that, now don't be fooled into thinking this 'perfect picture' was an easy task. It took 3 different 'mini-sessions,' a meltdown from Aiden, some whining by Paige and a wiggly baby in the middle before I got what I thought was the picture.

Here is the one I framed...

These fabulous 'Daddy's Girl' dresses are by my favorite Lil Blue Boo

Wishing all of you SuperDads a very Happy Father's Day!!!

Paige Turns 6

2010-06-15T19:03:00.000-07:00

Ready for American Girl with her wallet and doll in hand

*This FUN balloon wreath tutorial can be found here but please make note that I had to use just under 300 12" balloons and 3 boxes of greening pins (I put 2 balloons in opposite directions in each pin)*

Today was Paig's 6th birthday, it seems like it was yesterday I was in labor with her all day and I didn't even know it.

I thought I was just having a bad pregnancy day since I was only 37 weeks and since she was my first baby it didn't occur to me that it could be labor. So long story short it wasn't until I was bleeding at home in the restroom late evening that my husband convinced me to go to the hospital to get checked and even then I was resistant.

After getting checked, I was told I was 10cm dilated and that her head was ready to crown. Yes I was in pain all day. I couldn't sit down, I felt the need to pace and I felt that intense pressure to push all day (which I did all day over the toilet off and on...eeek!) but still I thought labor would be much worse and thankfully for me and my tolerance for pain it was well tolerable if that's what we should call it. Paige Judith was a healthy, beautiful baby girl and changed our world forever.

Paige is so sweet, she loves to sing, dance, dress-up, make crafts and play the Wii. I adore her and I am so excited for this summer to spend everyday with her. I miss her so much when she is at school so I plan on cherishing everyday with her this summer, I have a lot of fun things planned to keep us busy with fun together.

So today in celebration of her 6th birthday we went and had lunch at the American Girl Bistro in Dallas. Paige brought her tooth fairy money and birthday money with a plan to get a new doll ...so Molly came home with us today along with a haircare kit and a sleeping bag.

After lunch, we had a short time at the house for Harlow and Aiden to nap while Paige and I spent over an hour playing dolls together in her room. It was then time for swim class and after it we enjoyed dinner at the outdoor pool and waterpark for some more fun.

When we got home Harlow was ready for bed so we spent the final hour before bed playing Wii together before putting the birthday girl and her brother to bed.

Today was a great day and now we can look forward to Paige's Toy Story III 3D movie party this Saturday.

She had to have a Moxie doll after seeing the commercial

Happy 6th Birthday Paige!

So excited to take home Molly and have a friend for the Emily the doll she already had

I only brought a few of the presents with us to American Girl so she opened the rest after we got home

She wanted a hula hoop for her birthday, she is really good at it!

NEW Life. Love. Shopping. Grab Buttons - Come & Get One!

2010-06-13T20:35:00.001-07:00

My friend Jenn from Forty Toes got herself some pretty little Blog grab buttons so I decided to follow her lead and get myself a couple.

Please feel free to grab your favorite button and share my Blog on your page,

I would love to hear it if you do.

Thanks for the link love!

Tutu Cute in Dear Lillie

2010-06-13T09:45:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when I got my most recent order from Dear Lillie, this tutu with the clip-on flower is gorgeous and so well made.

I knew my first tutu had to be blue to compliment Harlow's big blue eyes but I can tell we already need another because these are not only great for pictures, but also for play-time and how cute will Harlow be wearing a tutu while we wait at Paige's dance class.

I love everything about Dear Lillie; they have amazing customer service and quick shipping on top of it. If you haven't checked out their on-line store you should, I don't think you will be able to resist ordering something pretty either for yourself or for your daughter(s).

Harlow in the Emma tutu paired with fabulous lace leggings by Amazing Gracie and a Joyfolie hair clip

She insists on taking the clips out of her hair, I keep trying and trying but as soon as I put it in she takes it out...she usually wins.

Her new cheezy smile...so cute!

My model is tired...it's naptime

CA part III - Real Friends are Forever

2010-06-12T19:12:00.001-07:00

I feel so lucky that I have the kind of friends that no matter how much time or distance between us they quickly clear calendars to get together with me when I come to CA for a visit.

Saturday night, my friends and I went out to a local Country Bar for some drinks and dancing. My good friend Shelby attempted to teach me a couple of the line dances and I sure had fun *trying* to dance out on the dance floor.

The last night of my trip I enjoyed dinner with my family and friends at my favorite restaurant Marino's in Bellflower.

Suzanne & I

My nieces Zoe (holding Harlow) and Megan in the back with Suzanne's kids in the front

My brother Jesse and I

Everyone loves 'Uncle Jesse'

I had a great visit and I am looking forward to going back in October for my sister's wedding.

CA part II - All Things Water and FUN

2010-06-08T21:04:00.000-07:00

We went to the beach so we could visit my mom (where we laid her to rest) and I could take some pictures of my sister, Jason and the 3 kids together.

We were clickin' away at the beach and got a ton of fabulous pictures. We went to the beach every year on the anniversary of my mother's passing so I was happy to get to go back for a visit. Harlow just loved the sand, I assumed she would cry when I sat her down but it was just the opposite she was all curiosity and smiles.

My husband and I were married at Laguna Beach in the sand because my mom really wanted me to have a beach wedding, sadly she passed away shortly before our wedding but we threw roses in the sea during the ceremony to include her. My mother loved the beach and I was grateful Harlow was so content sitting in the sand spending time with her grandma whom she will never be fortunate enough to meet.

I love this picture with Harlow and her Auntie Jen and Cousin Megan

All smiles in the sand

Fun striped leggings are by BabyLegs

I have a thing for these Joyfolie shoes and how cute are they in the sand?!

Here's my sister with Jason and the kids

This is from the beautiful yacht my sister and Jason are getting married on in October

The following day we went to the Long Beach Aquarium.

Harlow is wearing a dress by Matilda Jane & my hoodie is from Evy's Tree

We also went out on my good friend Shelby's parent's boat.

Shelby & I

My sister Jennifer & I

Harlow at the wheel

It was such a fun day out in the water and sun with family and friends, I do miss a few things about CA one of them being the nice weather.

Well looks like we will have a part III of my trip to CA. I am taking the kids to Build-A-Bear today and then tonight I am going out with some friends to see Sex & the City II, enjoying summer already!

Fun with Family and Friends in CA - Part 1

2010-06-05T20:48:00.001-07:00

I wasn't sure how I should post about my trip to CA since I took so many pictures during my visit so let's start with the first two days of my trip.

Harlow did great on the plane ride to CA. She nursed at take-off, took a very short nap and then enjoyed travel time on my lap, thank goodness just a couple days before the trip she started eating puffs so that saved me when she would start to wiggle.

Harlow thought she was just going to buckle herself in at her own seat...ha ha!

I did get lucky to have an empty seat next to me which was great for holding all of our stuff while she sat on my lap.

I was so excited for Harlow to meet family that she hadn't met yet and I got just that on day 1 over at my brother's house with him and my nieces.

My niece Mia with Harlow

I stayed with my sister and Jason and really enjoyed all of the time I got to spend with them visiting. Harlow took sometime to warm-up to everyone as she was cutting 3 new teeth during our visit.

The second day of my visit was the 'reason' for my visit which was meeting my good friend Nava's new baby boy Eden at his brit milah. I have known Nava since 7th grade and I was so grateful to have been able to get over to CA for such a special ceremony for her first born baby boy. I love you Nava, Eden is adorable and he sure is a lucky boy to have such wonderful parent's and family. I just know your going to be such an amazing mother.

Nava & I with our babies

I saw these wonderful flowers in front of someones house and just had to sit Harlow down in front of them for some pictures...even though my sister thought I was a little crazy.

Harlow is wearing one of my favorite eden bouquet outfits the Cloud Dress & Bloomers that her Grandma & Tom got her for Christmas and her headband and shoes are Joyfolie.

So stay tuned for part II and maybe even a part III depending on the amount of pictures, we went to the Long Beach Aquarium and Harlow's first time at the beach so it could be hard to narrow those down.

Have a great Sunday!

Giddy Over Horses by Lil Blue Boo

2010-06-01T19:08:00.000-07:00

I almost can't put into words how excited Paige was about this pink horse dress by our favorite Lil Blue Boo, she couldn't get it on fast enough and the day after we took these pictures she put it back on to wear it again. At first, I wasn't going to let her but when that toothless smile is looking up at you it's hard to say 'no' so I let her wear it another day. I figure it's summer and being easygoing is one of the best parts about it.

I was so excited that Harlow got to match her big sister and another bonus is that Paige's two Bamboletta dolls each had a matching pink horse dress. I was happy I could use Butterscotch as a prop for the pictures since the kids don't play with it.

I always say I am going to 'frame it' and I never do but I can promise you all I will be framing one of these pretty pictures very soon.

Paige almost 6 years and Harlow 9 months

Fabulous Princy n Paris Giveaway!

2010-05-31T07:46:00.000-07:00

Oh how I love all of these fabulous hair pretties by Princy n Paris, I just love her classy style. I haven't ordered from her yet but I do already have a nice wish list ready to go if I was lucky enough to win her giveaway.

Check out her beautiful store on Etsy and I am sure you will love her like I do.

Moms Make the Best Milk

2010-05-28T19:23:00.000-07:00

Nursing Harlow on the beach in CA at 9 months old

I figured it was time to Blog about who I am, I am passionate about a lot of things and kids clothing is just a very small part of me.

So today while I was nursing Harlow I knew I wanted a post about breastfeeding. I am so very very passionate about breastfeeding but it's one of those topics you have to bite your lip a bit before talking about because it stirs up so much emotion in women.

With that being said, I have always and will continue to say (even if it's just in my head) that the breast is the best. I know people have reasons for not breastfeeding or they couldn't for numerous reasons and I understand that, I don't place judgement on them but this post is my chance to talk about how great breastfeeding is and how fortunate I have been with breastfeeding my kids.

I have breastfed all 3 of my children without using any formula and I have enjoyed every minute of it for so many beneficial reasons.

With my first daughter Paige I worked full-time, I carried my pump bag around with me at work and pumped as often as she ate with her caregiver so I could provide my milk for every feeding the following day. Sure it wasn't much fun sitting in a small room pumping at work and then having to wash the parts but it was well worth it and I cherished nursing her when I wasn't at work.

I have been fortunate to be a Stay At Home Mom with my last two children. I have been able to nurse on demand, I have kept my babies with me so I could avoid pumping and bottles. I enjoy it, I don't want to miss a minute of it because it all goes by so fast. I have cherished every moment I have had a baby at my breast because I know what I am doing is best for nutrition, overall health and well being and creates a stronger bond between my baby and I.

Harlow has definitely been my most difficult baby to nurse, she has always been super impatient waiting for the milk to letdown and bites me on occasion but I still keep at it and enjoy it. It hasn't always been easy to nurse, I have faced many obstacles over my nursing years but it's worth it to keep at it and I still love it.

Here's some of my must haves for breastfeeding:

I don't feel the need to cover, I don't really show anything but a baby in front of me but I would recommend a cover if you need some privacy and/or these are great if your baby is easily distracted.

Udder Covers has some really pretty nursing covers

Lansinoh Nursing Pads

Lansinoh Breast Cream for those first rough few days...I promise they will heal and it's well worth it to keep at it

The Boppy Pillow this is my favorite nursing pillow (I tried the My Brest Friend with my 3rd baby Harlow and it wasn't comfortable after the first few months so I went back to what I loved with my first two babies being the Boppy Pillow)

This Adiri bottle is great for a breastfed baby, Harlow had 1 bottle one time while I was at the Black Eyed Peas concert (well worth that bottle) and she did great using this bottle.

So grab a bottle of water, sit down, put up your feet and enjoy the time with your baby at your breast. Be sure and get some beautiful pictures of you nursing and pat yourself on the back for giving your baby the best milk on Earth!

I have entertained the thought of becoming a lactation consultant because of my passion and personal experience. I just need more knowledge and a license to round-me-out.

Nursing Aiden at a year old

Oh my more Ruffles at Evy's Tree

2010-05-26T20:31:00.001-07:00

You all know I love ruffles, so it's obvious that I would swoon over the new ruffle Lacey Zip Up by Evy's Tree. She is having another giveaway so now is the time to check out her fabulous goodies and enter for a chance to win this new Lacey Zip Up, I would gladly take it off your hands if you win.

Cute x2 in Lil Blue Boo

2010-05-26T20:14:00.001-07:00

The only thing better than 1 of these Lil Blue Boo dresses is a little doll dress to match, Paige was so excited to match her Bamboletta doll Chloe.

I have recently become addicted to all things Lil Blue Boo, I love the upcycled one-of-a-kind dresses she makes as well as the limited silk screen prints that she sells. Paige loves how "cool" and comfortable they are. As with many of the things I love, they sell out almost immediately and the race to get one is part of the fun.

I recently scored a fabulous horse print dress for each of the girls with doll dresses to match, I get 'giddy' just thinking about the cute pictures of the girls' together wearing them.

Fabulous Ruffle Hoodies by Evy's Tree and a Giveaway

2010-05-25T07:33:00.000-07:00

Ok I admit it, I have a serious addiction to ruffles so when I laid eyes on a hoodie by Evy's Tree it was love at first sight. Living in TX hoodies are so practical since our weather changes from day to day and the kids prefer them over bulky jackets. Harlow and I brought our Evy's Tree hoodies with us on our CA trip and they came in so handy and of course scored us a ton of compliments. I also have to mention how sweet Amy the owner/designer is and how beautifully she packages her items, the best way to find this out is to go and order one for yourself (tell her I sent you).

Evy's Tree is having a great giveaway so go check out her fabulous Etsy store and enter to win one of her beautiful ruffle tees, another item I hope to own VERY soon.

Paige's Early Birthday at School

2010-05-16T09:52:00.000-07:00

Friday was an extra special day at school for Paige because she got to celebrate her birthday. Paige will be turning 6 on June 15th but got to celebrate her birthday early since school will be out on summer break.

Her day started off getting to wear the special birthday hat, getting a special pencil, then she sang and dance on stage with other kids celebrating their birthday's and we dropped off donuts and orange juice to her class to enjoy later in the day.

I of course already hand on-hand the perfect '6' dress for her to wear, I bought it almost a year ago... because yes, I am really that crazy. This fabulously fun upcycled '6' dress is by courtneycourtney, you have to get her stuff quick because everything she makes sells out instantly and is one of a kind....JUST LIKE MY BIRTHDAY GIRL!

My Mother's Day Gift...A Great Wolf Lodge Vacation

2010-05-15T07:06:00.000-07:00

I have the most priceless gift in the world, my 3 beautiful children

I couldn't have asked for a better Mother's Day gift then spending 2 nights at the Great Wolf Lodge with my family. This hotel has so many fun things to do you can barely get it all in with a 2-night stay.

We spent the majority of our time playing in the huge indoor water park, the kids enjoyed playing the Magi-Quest adventure game, they also enjoyed playing in the arcade, story-time each night was awesome and we got each of the kids a PAW Pass which included some other fun things to-do inside the hotel.

The best part about the room was the 'Kid Kamp' the kids each had a turn sleeping on the top bunk bed and they had their own tv to watch from their beds.

I told Jon we should make this a yearly tradition on Mother's Day weekend because we all had such a good time and it's a great excuse to go back every year.

Posing for a picture next to one of the wall murals in their 'Kid Kamp' room

Harlow's first time in a swimsuit, how CUTE is she?!

Harlow's first time in the water, she LOVED every minute of it

Storytime

Aiden paying the Magi-Quest game

First time sleeping in a Pack-n-Play

The kids still have these cool tattoos a week later

Oh Dear Lillie...I love it all!

2010-05-11T06:50:00.000-07:00

This was just a week of sharing some of my favorites with you all (hey part of this blog is all about shopping right?), I have one more I must mention as everything this store carries is beautiful. I have yet to own any of it but I certainly have a growing 'wish list' for both my girls and I.

The store name is Dear Lillie and they also have a store on Etsy you can shop. I love the tutu's, the flowers and the Adeliene dress for myself. So go and give it a peek as I am sure you will fall in love with it all as I have.

Happiness in Little Pretty Shoes and Pretty Flowers - Joyfolie

2010-05-10T17:39:00.000-07:00

I tell ya it's the little things that make me happy, I am sure you have read over and over again on my Blog about how much I love these special little shoes and flowers on Harlow. I received our first pair of Mia Joie shoes from my good friend Laura B. shortly after I had Harlow and I knew the moment I laid eyes on them it was love. I actually think Harlow looks a bit-off without a flower in her hair since she wears them almost everyday, of course if she has shoes on they are by Mia Joie and recently I ordered myself a fabulous flower headband.

Well what was once Mia Joie is now named Joyfolie, whatever the name I am in love with everything Jessica creates and am definetly one of her biggest fans. So go become a fan on her new Joyfolie Facebook page and Follow the Joyfolie Blog.

She has a contest going on now to win a pair of shoes, you know you can always give them to me if you win ;)

I dream about owning these for Harlow

Harlow modeling her most recent pair of sweet peep toe shoes

Love these flowers!

VOTE for Harlow

2010-05-10T08:23:00.000-07:00

Ok you all know that I love a contest and I could use some help so Harlow can win this one.

It just takes a second to become a fan of (click link below):

La-Moo on Facebook and then 'like' on Harlow's picture

Another way to help Harlow win is by posting or 'sharing' the link below on your Facebook page so your friends can also cast their 'like' vote.

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3979441&id=709262187&subject=402597741368&ref=mf

Oh and I have lot's more to share with you all so stay tuned for some fun, picture filled Blog posts in a day or two.

Thanks for your help!!!

I am "Crunchy"

2010-05-01T20:09:00.001-07:00

So I never knew they had a 'term' for the way I am, the things I do but I learned last week that they do and it's called being a "crunchy mom".

I took the kids to a playdate last week to meet some new mommies from my area and in addition to meeting them I ran into another group of mom's that I also had a lot in common with, they referred to themselves as being "crunchy".

At first, I dismissed the idea that I too was considered "crunchy" as I figured it had more to do with recycling, composting and overall being green which wouldn't describe me (although I hope to improve in some of those areas) at least not right now, but I learned that it was more directed at being 'natural' and a lot of it surrounding the way we view and raise our children.

Well as my new "crunchy" friend started giving me the rundown I answered yes to almost all of her questions except a few. What do I do that makes me "crunchy" well I do natural births and a homebirth in water with baby #3, I cloth diaper (I love you FuzziBunz!), I love baby wearing (Ergo your the BEST!), I don't use medicine and I don't give it to my children, I breastfeed without using bottles (Harlow is 8 months old and has only had 1 bottle 1 time, it was worth it though to go to the Black Eyed Peas concert) and overall I believe in being as 'natural' as I can.

I just thought it was neat to have a definition for how I view things, makes it easier to classify and easier to find those that are similar to myself. I really enjoyed meeting this great group of mom's that I could relate to and admire, I always felt the minority so it was refreshing to meet a group who viewed so much of parenting as I do. I joined their 'Bohemian Parent's' group as soon as I got home and I look forward to getting to know them better and learning more about myself in the process.

We know I am "crunchy" are you? Take this quiz and find out.

It's All About the Sparkle!

2010-04-28T06:38:00.000-07:00

I am so excited that I have finally been able to reclaim some more free-time now that Harlow is a little older to open back up my Sparkle Your Kids shop on Etsy. I have always enjoyed making these custom Swarovski Sparkle shirts for babies, girls and adults because who doesn't love to sparkle?! I have a bunch if new designs that I am working on in addition to some Sparkly hair accessories.

Please help me spread the exciting news about my store's re-opening by becoming a Facebook fan on my Sparkle Your Kids fan page, this way you will be notified of exciting giveaways and discounts that I exclusively offer to my fans and also add my Etsy store as a favorite.

Thank you all for your help and support.

Mad Over Bluebonnets

2010-04-23T12:46:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again if you live in Texas to take your children for some pretty Bluebonnet pictures, it's a Texas tradition.

I have a field near my house that I take the kids to every year for ours, it's actually a small, old cemetery but the fields where the bluebonnets grow aren't near the headstones. Because I waited a little longer this year to take the kids I had to climb a fence to get to the field that had the most flowers. Bluebonnet flowers only bloom a short time and people trample them trying to get the "perfect picture" so the sooner you go the better.

So yesterday I channeled my inner Super Mom (no cape needed) to get the kids dressed and over to the bluebonnets just before dinner. I had to overcome a few obstacles to get the perfect picture, first was getting us all on the other side of the fence all while holding Harlow and the camera bag but I was determined. Then it was time for a trek through the fields in my flip flops where I lost one of Harlow's shoes so I had to go back to find it before I could start our photo-shoot. After I found the shoe and sat the kids down I quickly realized that Harlow wanted no part in sitting in these pretty flowers so I only got a few pictures before she started to cry.

Both Paige and Aiden were great trying to give me their best smile and talking to Harlow in hopes she would cooperate. I think Paige has realized that the quicker she can help me get a good picture the sooner we can be finished. Paige really enjoyed singing and dancing in the flower filled field, so with a crying Harlow on my hip I got some great frolicking pictures of Paige amongst the flowers and some of Aiden climbing on the fence.

Well for those of you who know me you know I don't easily give-up my idea of getting a 'perfect picture' so after I loaded up Paige and Aiden I had to try one last attempt with Harlow in the bluebonnets, after-all it was her first year for them. I even tried bribery with her first little lollipop but nope she continued to cry so I had to settle for a pretty picture of her from behind.

Harlow 8 months old

Maybe next year Harlow

Paige & Harlow are both wearing clothing by eden's bouquet

YAY for a GREAT BabyPlanet Endangered Species Stroller Giveaway!

2010-04-20T15:29:00.001-07:00

You know I can't pass up a chance to win something, plus I always enjoy sharing my fabulous finds and these are some really nice strollers with a great purpose, they help to raise awareness of animals that are threatened by extinction.

So go check out these great strollers today and enter yourself for a chance to win one, tomorrow is the last day to enter so don't delay!

BabyPlanet Endangered Species Stroller Giveaway

GREAT Upcycled Georgia Grace Giveaway!

2010-04-13T13:41:00.001-07:00

You know I am a sucker for a great giveaway and this one is making me keep my fingers crossed until it ends. I just have to win it for Harlow (yes, I realize she only has 3 teeth but I can't wait for the day when Cheerios are her best friend).

So I am sharing this great giveaway with you all so I can get an extra entry and you can get a chance to win it...and you know I will gladly take it off your hands if you win and don't want it.

Oh don't forget to check out Georgia Grace's fabulous Etsy store while your hoping and waiting to win.

A FUN Tulah Tuesday Giveaway!

2010-04-06T10:39:00.001-07:00

I always have a 'wish' list ready when it comes to the kids clothing and with t ulah my list just keeps on growing; we haven't been fortunate enough to own any tulah yet but we will and I hope it's soon because I don't think I can wait much longer to get my girls in these beautiful clothes.

So with that being said I sure hope I can win this $40 giveaway so I can cross something off my 'wish' list and if I can't win it then I hope it's YOU, so go on the tulah Facebook page and become a fan and comment for your chance to win.

Since we are on the subject of tulah, want to see my 'wish' list?

I hope to get this dress for both of the girls, I think it would be perfect for the 4th of July.

Another must have for both, so cute under dresses and great paired with any tank or tee.

I know Paige would love this dress, so modern and 'cool'.

Paige & Harlow would be stunning with those big blue eyes in this pretty dress.

Ok and I also love this one for Harlow.

So if you find a money tree please let me know so I can stop dreaming about it and get some at our door.