Next To Heaven

For the Boys

2012-02-12T06:04:00.000-08:00

Mike is all boy these days.

He is loud, fast, messy, and

makes the most amazing sound effects!

His helicopter and machine gun sounds will make you duck and cover!

One thing I love about boys is how a $2.99 bag of army men

can seem like the best gift ever!

And lucky for us, mom is not the only creative parent in the house...

Daddy and Mike made a fort board to play army.

He used a scrap piece of wood for the base and

then they used wood glue and 1/2 inch blocks to design two forts.

It was perfect because Mike could work right along side daddy and

it dried really fast, so the wait time was manageable!

All you mom's of 4 year old boys will know exactly why that is perfect!

For two hours they played and played.

And later Mike played by himself some more!

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Easy School Scrapbook

2012-02-08T17:44:00.000-08:00

I few days ago I posted so news about becoming a Memory Works consultant. Well, the one thing I am most excited about is this line called Elementary by Simple Stories. It is very similar to Project Life, in that it works with different styles of page protectors and pre designed paper to fit the different pockets.

When you watch this video I found on UTUBE, she says you have to buy all these sets of page protectors, but you can get the combination set that is $6. I am waiting for my order to get here and hope to post my own video or at least tutorial on this.

If you are not a scrapbooker, but would love for your children to have a school keepsake album... this is meant for you! I also, like that it encourages lots of journaling... I see my kids writing their own thoughts in it as the get older. Lastly, they have the same type of kits in BABY BOY or GIRL, BIRTHDAY, TRAVEL, or just LIFE!

You can see them on my Scrapping Blog! Let me know if you want more information!

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Dry Erase Calendar Update

2012-02-06T14:37:00.000-08:00

So here she is my big claim to fame!

I made this dry erase claendar about six months ago

to go with our Family Launch Pad.. and to make my life easier!

Little did I know that it would be pinned over 2,000 times and bring lots of traffic my way (thanks!)

I have also had lots of requests to sell them in my ETSY SHOP...

So here are two new versions...

One with adorable reds and one with greens!

I also found a frame that was a easier to ship shape.

I am selling them for $30 and $10 to ship them!

So for $40one of these babies can be yours

and you are on click away from being

organized, stylish, and all the rage- bahaha!

PS. I will make any color combo you request or

will just sell the 4X6 cards, so you can use any frame you want.

Just message me through my ETSY STORE HERE!

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Big Scrappin' News

2012-02-06T06:29:00.000-08:00

Big news here at The Fey House... If you are a blog reader then you know I have been hosting lots of craft nights, I have started scraping with Project Life, and yes... I have a paper addiction. To top it all off, like many of us across the country I am desperate for supplies... don't get me wrong We have a small store here in town and even a tiny Hobby Lobby, and the UPS guy knows my thanks to all my Two Peas orders, but between the prices, selection, and the hassle having to shop with not one, but two kids in tow...

I have decided to become a ...

YAY! I am SO flippin' excited... now don't go roll your eyes, this is no Stampin' up or tiered company where I will have to pressure myself or for my friends to purchase over priced products. First, there are NO tiers... thus no tears (lol) and the prices are fantastic and the shipping is ... normal!! If you have ever ordered a product from a catalog company and the total shocks you- because of shipping! Not here girls.

But best of all. are the products... starting with a very favorite of mine...

Have you bought their paper, yet? I have... lots of it! It is so pretty and happy! Plus, it works great with your Project Live, 365, or Project 12. Simple Stories is perfect for girls like me who want to capture my family's legacy, but is way too busy to scrap every picture and detail. These papers and embellies are great at making it easy... I will post more about this on my Scrapping Blog later.

So here is the link to our catalog... wait till you see what pretty products we have at great prices....

(catalog link)

A few of the lines we carry are listed below.... I know what your thinking...

"Dang, you are like a walking Scrapbook Store!"

and Yup, your are right!

Email me if you would like to make an order...

kristyfey (dot) memoryworks (at) yahoo.com

Stay turned for all my ideas and projects!

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Potty Training Highs and Lows

2012-02-01T06:55:00.000-08:00

This little cutie has just turned 27 months! And after several people agreeing she is ready to potty train, we prepared to say good bye to our diaper days...

thus officially ending the baby years, as the diaper bag can now be retired.

I entered the process, well frankly arrogant... after all I potty trained my son before he was 2 1/2 in 48 hours... piece of cake!

I mean isn't it a fact that girls train easier then boys? Hump!

Mommy's High: The hunt! I was so excited to take Addy out to get all our special gear for our big weekend! It was girl's day and we spared no expense, treated ourselves to popcorn AND a Slurpee at Target, and even did it all in the rain!

Mommy's Low: After standing in the book section at Target for over 15 minutes debating myself over buying the only English potty book they had that was a whopping $8.50... I said, "what the hell, ya only potty train your daughter once!" Right? and bought it, only to discover just two out of the 8 buttons worked! UGH!

Daddy's High: "Cha-ching! Just the mere thought of saving all that money led to day dreams of my very own boat!"

Daddy's Low: "Being handed a turd at the dinner table by my sweet little girl. Not sure who was more shocked... Addy because it fell out of her bum or me, because it wasn't chicken! (for real!)"

Mikey's High: "Sister's potty reward came in the form of Cherry M&Ms-

which she HAS to share... woo hoo!"

Mikey's Low: "I just wanted to divert attention back to me with a silly little show. While making everyone laugh, my arm got stuck in a kitchen chair... to make it worse part of my show required I wear a silly bow in my hair-dumb idea, just look at me! and to make ever more worse before helping me out, my own mother ran to get the camera and was laughing so hard she shed tears of her own!

and she says she loves me? It just doesn't get lower than that!"

Addy's High: "Hmmm, not sure I had one!"

Addy's Low: "What? No Thomas the Train panties? What about Goofy? Spiderman?

So not fair!"

More lows for Addy: "After begging for a diaper over and over, my mom still forced me into panties! Nag! Nag! Nag! If I ever have to hear "need to go potty?" again it will be too soon! How about trying to make a master piece on the back porch with your sidewalk paints, only to have it washed away by your own pee!

Or worse, slipping over and over again in your own pee

as you're running across the wood floors to make it to the potty!"

"Listen up mommy, I am too smart and too cute to do anything on anyone elses terms...

after all I am YOUR daughter!"

Yup, we gave up... we will try again in three months! No mommy of the year here, girls!

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New Bow Colections

2012-01-30T14:28:00.000-08:00

I made a ton of new bows!

Take a look in my shop HERE. I price them to sell!

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Settling In

2012-01-28T21:09:00.000-08:00

I have been dreaming (ok Pinterest-ing) ways to make my life easier. We have been in this house for almost 6 months and now that the boxes are unpacked and the place is livable, I am going back and making some minor changes. Specifically, cost free changes!

I got this book and read most it... some of it fit and some of it didn't.

I do not have the de-cluttering issue most

of these type of books deal with because we just moved in

and we got rid of a ton.... really I bet it weighed a ton.

In a nutshell, Mindy suggests not to change your behavior, but to make your house fit your behavior. For example if you have a cute little key holder in your kitchen, but everyone drops there keys on the buffet at the door... do not nag and complain, just move the key holder! Like wise, if laundry piles up on the bathroom floor instead of making its way into the hamper in the closet... move the hamper to the bathroom! She also discourages buying lots of bins, baskets, and racks- what? Yup... if you think a basket will work on the counter to catch the junk mail, start with a shoe box...

if it works go get a cute basket.

Hmmm, that's new to me!

Guess my old "I can't be organized until I make a trip to The Container Store" line is out the window-eh?

I have also been re-reading the Fly Ladies web site. The best advice I picked up here is first get up and get dressed... seems easy enough, but trust me it is way too easy for me to wear my pjs to the couch for my coffee and computer time, then make breakfast, the get the kids ready, and THEN throw on some clothes! She also says to find your one spot and keep it clean. You know the "one spot" that fills you up when it looks good... the whole house looks awful, but this spot is presentable you can breath spot... yup, that one. For her it is her sink, for me it is my master bedroom... I feel 100 times better if I take 5 minutes and make my bed and another five to clear off my dresser!

FlyLady.net is a wonderful website with lots of practical info and videos!

One of my "hot spots" is the desk area in our kitchen- UGH!

Sometimes I wish we wouldn't have even added it in to the plans!

I use 'busy bags' in the evening when I am cooking

with the kids and they kinda took over...

So I now use 'busy boxes'-lol. Ahh, much better!

This cabinet by our breakfast table, holds alot of kid stuff that needs adult supervision. I had some puzzles and too many extras in there... so they were relocated to the downstairs living room, where we can all do puzzles. Who would have thought that they are now used twice as much as before!

I still have a few more details to fix, but so far I like my start!

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Gratitude Journal

2012-01-16T01:25:00.000-08:00

Several months ago I pinned an adorable gratitude journal from HERE.

More recently my very creative friend Erin

made THIS even more adorable journal.

In keeping with my OLW mission...

I made me one to help me "Settle" down.

So here is my mini version.

I keep it on my night stand with a few Project Life Cards

and make myself write a few notes before I pick up my book or kindle.

So far so good.

I do wish I would have titled it "365 thoughts of gratitude"

as sometimes I write down two thoughts and believe it or not (haha)

sometimes I am too tired to even jot down a few words!

I used this cute little paper clip to hold my place.

I made several little pocket sized journals for a tutorial on my scrappin' blog.

You can read all about it HERE in the No No Room.

Oh, and did I mention they were made from 3 for $1 notebooks.

Some are from gifts and some will find their way into my shop.

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Scrappy Magnetic Block Frames

2012-01-14T01:06:00.000-08:00

Before Christmas I made a few of these wooden block frames.

Most sold, but this cutie pie is still left.

I am adding it my Etsy Shop.

I super love the vintage cherry designed paper.

The frame will hold up to a 5X7 photo.

Under the paper I glues a thin magnetic strip.

Then I modge podge the paper on top of it.

This was the photo can me attach with these cute little embellished buttons.

Just something different from the clothes pins I was using,

It think it would look adorable in a kitchen for holding recipe cards.

Waiting for a free weekend to make some more.

Such a fun was to display photos, cards, and other memorabilia.

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Project Life!!

2012-01-12T13:06:00.000-08:00

For Christmas my mom gave me my project life kit...

yup, she who gave me life, now gives me project life!

If you are not familiar with project life...

have you been living under the scrap booking rock?

I kid. I kid. Check out THIS video and try not to tear up!

The kit I went with is the Turquoise kit...

but she has four kits, all equally fantastic.

I picked this one because the design matches well

with lots of paper I ~~stole~~ was given

from my mom by Stampin' Up.

I am really sticking to the original concept of Project Life.

In other words, it is going to be more journaling and pictures

with less embellishing, designing, and artistic stuff.

Don't get me wrong I have a whole Pinterest board

devoted to beautifully embellished Project Life pages,

but for me...

I want to strictly use it to document our daily life.

(hold me to that, girls!)

For example... this resent picture of Addy!

This is what happens when she has chocolate ice cream

30 minutes past her bedtime!

She is too tired to find her mouth!

I still hope to make other layouts full of pretty things,

but my hope is for Project Life to be our family legacy...

the book my grand kids will cherish!

And look... even my last page is already done!

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One Little Word 2012

2012-01-10T15:30:00.000-08:00

(Photo Credit)

It is that time of year again... time to pick my OLW.

Last year my word was FAITH and the year before that it was FAMILY.

This year my little word is not so little and it hit me like a ton of bricks.

Hold on because it might surprise you...

I know, I know the first thing you think of is "Never settle for less than you deserve"or
that 'settleing' is lowering expectations, boring, lazy, not learning or growing...
But we are thinking more like this...
We are thinking settle means...
to put in order... to make make calm... to establish residence..
to decide... to rest... to form a community.

The bible tells us...
This really speaks to me... we have worked so hard to "build our house" Between Adam's deployment, the death of my Nana and his dad, our miscarriages, our moves, all of the ups and downs we have survived... it is time to slow down and reap what we have sown!

Don't get me wrong... I would love a new camera or mini van. I beat myself up over my weight and my perpetual mountain of laundry. My undone and always growing 'to-do list' makes me fell inadequate everyday....every. flippin'. day. I do not have enough time to sew and craft. And would you believe we have never been on a plane together?!
The list of expectations and dreams still live on,
but it just is not going to haunt me in 2012!
I am enough.
I have enough.
It is time to let the dust settle and life see clearly.

I am no longer going to focus of being more than I am,
wanting more than I have,
or striving for any sort of perfection.
What? Ouch!
It sounds so good, but it is not me...
I am a classic Capricorn, oldest child, over achiever, people pleaser,
after all I am my mother's daughter and it took her along to figure this out!
I made myself this cute little tag and all the quotes above
to help me remember to settle in and settle down.

So what will you OLW be, eh?
Visit Alie Edward's blog to be inspired!

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December Daily: Week 4

2012-01-05T13:31:00.001-08:00

Monday, December 26th... The kids were more than ready to hang our with Lala and our neighbors and play the day away. I was having major issues... everything was driving me nuts... I had to get cleaning and organizing!

I am pretty sure it was a first and thanks to my mom and Adam I had plenty of help taking everything down, cleaning, and packing it all back up!... okay, almost all of it!

Monday, December 27th:

Adam went back to work and my mom headed home, too. It was sad, but thank goodness Lala made me a big batch of her fudge before she left... trust me it helped. Things we quite and I could feel everything calming down.

Wednesday, December 28th:

It was my parents 38th wedding anniversary which was pretty remarkable if you ask me!

Ah, happy mail! My sweet friend Erin sent us the best 'post Christmas' care package, which quickly snapped up back into excitement. She made both kids the most incredible scarfs and sent a bunch of fun gingerbread men stuff. And I got some scrappin' stuff... more on that later!!

We also got our last Christmas card... and I just can't seem to take any of them down!

Thursday, December 29th:

Jolene came to town for a sleep over. She arrived in time for what the neighborhood has coined 'the parade' It happens between 4:30 and 5:30 every night. All the kids come out.

Bicycles, jeeps, scooter, push toys, shopping carts you name it... and ya better drive slow.

After bath, the kids all put on their new robes and cuddled up for a movie!

Friday, December 30th:

Family fun playing our new Wii games.... more on that later, too!

Saturday, December 31st...

My birthday! I have to give a shout out to my wonderful husband who made my day very special with lots of attention and thoughtfulness! He even went shopping with me! After we hunted down a Kindle Fire we went to lunch at one of my favorite places, Chuys! Where I had plenty of chips and jalapeno ranch dip! Not to mention a frozen birthday beverage with salt!

After a nice nap, we had my mini party complete with balloons, cake, more presents, and the cutest rendition of 'Happy Birthday'

Then we headed outside to bring in the new year with our neighbors!

The fire crackers and roasted marshmallows reminded me of my childhood... ummm, the cops coming by reminded me of my college days... lol,

And that is it... that is how we do December at The Fey House!

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It's My Party

2011-12-31T07:56:00.000-08:00

Saturday, December 31st:

Today I turn 37.

I bought my first wrinkle cream... I think for what they call "Crows Feet" and I am pretty sure I have them... on both eyes. I am getting a Kindle, which is as amazing to me as the hover craft I thought I would have by this age. My loves are taking me to Chuys for mexican food and baking me a birthday cake because it sounds perfect to me and I am the birthday girl!

Photo Credit

I won't make a wish because all mine have come true and even though it sounds awful close to 40, which sounds really close to 50... I am certain it will be a great day... and another great year... bring it on 2012, I am ready!

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Christmas Day

2011-12-30T23:00:00.000-08:00

December 25th: Wow! Santa was extra sneaky this year. We have no clue how he managed to get all these presents... including what happens to be the largest Power Wheel Jeep on the market... under the tree without waking any of us up!

And how incredibly good did Santa hear my kids were this year? He must have called their grandparents!

Both kids camped out on out bedroom floor for the first time ever and surprisingly fell asleep right away. Rise and shine came at 5:58 am when a little voice said, "Mommy can I give you a kiss?" Which I am pretty sure was code for... "Can we wake up now?"

Their first reactions were caught on video and by the time my camera came out this was my first shot! All Addy wanted to do was sit in the jeep... even the pretty pink and purple motorcycle was not a temptation!

Mike, on the other hand was bouncing all over the place, bright eyed and bushy tailed... even a new toothbrush was fantastic in his eyes!

Both kids got a much needed, colorful umbrella, but as Addy pointed out there was no rain!

Mike tried out the motorcycle....

Addy quickly reported him back to the jeep!

Ahhh, coffee was ready and now we can open presents!

This would be his "Best Day Ever" grin!

Addy needs her morning milk and some form of shoes... like mommy needs her coffee and robe! Please notice the world's cutest slippers... these piggies = a new obsession for Addy!

Mike picked out a Baby Alive for his sister... he knows her well and was shockingly able to keep it a secret!

Daddy got Mike Military Hero set... another big hit! Mommy got daddy an ATV adventure and he got me beautiful pearl earrings!

Then we were out the door ready to cruise... still the motorcycle was sitting all alone!

I am not sure why, but I got not one picture of our breakfast with Lala and Pops. It was nice and looked very pretty on my Nana's china. We also had a family Nerf gun fight... pretty fun and watch A Christmas Story at least twice!

Then we headed to Grandma's house for dinner and more presents! The were pretty tired and watched The Grinch... again!

And this is what we do best... spend time with the people we love!

It sure was a very Merry Christmas... Thank you Jesus for allowing us to celebrate your birth with so much love and joy!

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December Daily: Week 3

2011-12-30T13:48:00.000-08:00

Sunday, December 18th: We headed to Santa's Ranch to check out all the lights and my camera died!

Monday, December 19th:

We made snowball cookies per daddy's request. It is a really fun cookie to make with kids... we had fun!

Addy was having a great time until we showed her all the sugar on her shoes... she immediately cried and quit making cookies.

She stuck to playing in the fake snow sensory tub I made for her... I found the coolest snow product at a craft show... if I was a good blogger I would have a link...hmmm?

Tuesday, December 20th:

This was a very big day for the Fey Kids. First, we met our long lost friend Emily and her new baby brother at the park... it had been well over a year since we had seen them, but they acted like they were old friends. Some of Emily's other friends met us there, too. The reunion special...lol!

Then we did a quick change and headed to daddy's work to have lunch with Santa! Mike was once again smitten and on cloud nine... Addy was more unsure, but a trooper none the less.

Adelyn has a thing about presents... she always wants to give them instead of receive them... nice, huh?

It took Santa several minutes and a long chat to convince Addy that the surprise was for her from him, not to him... same thing with Big Bird last week. I am thinking this phase will not last long!

What she did get very clearly, was the crafting table. Daddy was allowed not help and she made Mike's house after she made hers. What can I say? She is all mine!

Mike did not mind, as he was way too busy in what he might say was heaven on earth... a gingerbread man bounce house, full of 3 to 6 year old boys... wild, heaven!!

I had to include these photos because they are so cute.... hot chocolate in the Santa mugs!!

What is about Santa's face on a mug that makes everything taste better..... even cold, watery hot coco? Wednesday, December 21st:

The 2nd biggest day for the Fey Kids... they had been waiting and waiting to have breakfast with The Grinch!

Our cousin, Jolene came, too... she is also a big Grinch fan! Addy would only wave from a far and shout words at him... wonder if she had a gift for him, if she would have gotten any closer!

Have no fear, there were once again crafts, so she was happy as can be! Thursday, December 22nd:

Lazy, lazy day for the kids. We read books,watched movies, and played.

Awww, feeling that Christmas spirit while mama got some baking done!

All dressed and ready...

So here is my 'dirty' little secret... when I cook I tend to use every dish, every counter, and ingredient I have... yup, I am a messy cook and even a messier baker!!

And if it was in my pantry, it was dipped in chocolate and cover in sprinkles!

My mom calls these sugar plums and they were a big hit with the neighborhood kids!

Friday. December 23rd:

After a super fun neighborhood birthday party, my bff, Jennifer, came over with her daughter. Kaley Jo, and her mom, Nana Sue, to decorate cookies and exchange gifts!

So exciting!!

Addy had fun and was all business like here mama...

Kaley and Jen had fun, too....

Adelyn's cookie masterpieces...

And Mikey's masterpieces... wanna cookie with your sprinkles?

Saturday, December 24th... Christmas Eve!!

We headed to Austin to see my side of the family at McKinney Land...

Baby Reagan! She is sitting up and crawling now... she even gives high fives and waves! My sister had her in the most adorable Christmas outfit and almost as soon as it was on her, she had a blow out-ugh! I don't miss those days! Of course she looks adorable in anything!

Adelyn, was still a little confused on the present stuff, but enjoyed every second of her cousin time!

Reese got a Razor from Lala and Pops... if you happen to be out and about on the streets ofAustin watch out!

Mike has to be the most grateful kid ever... he was genuinely thrilled with every gift... especially this boat and shark set from Lala and Pops.

I had custom shirts made for my parents with all the grandkids names on them... gotta love etsy! My mom must have been very, very, very good this year because my sister got her a Rebel... her reaction was priceless! Me? I guess I was only very, very good, but there is always next year!!

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December Daily Week 2

2011-12-18T07:28:00.000-08:00

Friday, December 9th... After a few finishing touches on the tree, Santa coloring pages, and an indoor snowball fight the kids made me lunch! On of our family favorites... cheesy baked hot dogs and fruit salad.

I must say they are quiet the little chefs!

Saturday, December 10th...

We headed to Austin to celebrate cousin Rhiannon's 4th birthday!!

She had a Strawberry Shortcake themed party with lots of primping and prissy activities.

Adelyn blinged two bows (making three on her head!) and painted her nails 5 times... yup! 5 times means 5 layers of 5 different colors on her tiny little nails! (I hope to post more on this cute party later!)

Mike pretty much ate and ate and ate! Sunday, December 11th...

I did not pick up my camera but to snap a few pics of our new entertainment center HERE. We did manage to slap up some of our outside lights and wrapped presents. We also took a nice long nap!

Monday, December 12th... Gingerbread Man Day!! This is one of mommy's very favorite traditions as I love all the fun versions of the story.

Mike was very helpful and excited!

Addy was... not so much helpful, but excited none the less. Oddly, her favorite part was eating the Red Hot candy- what? don't most little ones hate those hard, hot things... nope not Addy... I would bet she ate or licked 100 of 'em!

Tuesday, December 13th...

Again no camera. While Mike was at school Addy and mommy went for do-nuts and coffee. We came home and did a smidge of laundry, but mostly played! When Mike came home from school our friends came over to craft. The mommies made more "Joy" blocks and the kids made tissue paper ornaments... Mike opted out of the craft and Addy tore her off hoping to re- glue them on... lordy, what a a fun mess she made!

Wednesday, December 14th...

Our neighbor hosted a cookie exchange and tea party. It was super fun and we met even more neighbors!! Pam, the hostess is retired and has no grand babies, so she is pretty smitten with all the neighborhood kiddos.

This is just one of three tables of cookies! Trust me they were every where- yummy! I made my peppermint brownie bites, but with chocolate cake instead... so ummm, peppermint cake balls!

Pam had all of her lovely tea sets our on display... this is one of maybe 20! She also has every kind of tea you can think of and the yummiest punch (which I have to get the recipe for!)

Thursday, December 15...

On this day I tried to use the camera, but could not find it anywhere! My neighbor Ashley came over after the big kids went to school and we designed a few picture frames for her. Adelyn and I went to wal-mart and bought our last few presents, new tooth brushes, and two new wii games!!!

Friday, December 26th...

Date night!! Adam and I used our groupon to take an art class by a local artist. I have wanted to do this for YEARS and it was so much fun!

Linda Johnson, the art teacher specializes in local scenery... like Canyon Lake, Gruene Hall, The River Walk... we did a Hill Country Meadow...

Saturday, December 17th...

Elmo Live!! I have had these tickets for 6 months and they were fantastic seats front and center!

Lucky for me, Mike still likes singing and dancing with the Sesame Gang... Addy of course adores them! I think the best ages for this show is 2 to six or even 7... it was like a Broadway show but for kids... even those the characters maybe geared for the preschoolers... the content and entertainment was so fun older kids would have been engaged!

It is not cheap by any means, but worth every penny. My kids were dancing in the aisle, singing there heads off, and beaming even after we got home! Super, super fun!

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Christmas Class Treat

2011-12-15T07:09:00.000-08:00

I found this fantastic idea on Pinterest (what else is new-huh) It met my 3 point criteria for Mike's preschool class gifts... 1. cute, 2. easy, and 3. cheap! As a bonus he was able to help make it, which he loved and adds to the "it is better to give" lesson!

The label is free from the Pink Peppermint Blogger. I cut mine up and added some scrapbook paper and tulle. We mixed oat meal, lots of green cookie sugar, and some Christmas colored confetti cookie sprinkles we had. Some recipes said to add glitter, but just incase a friend eats it- I skipped the glitter.

On the back the directions tell the kids to sprinkle this "Magic Reindeer Food" in your yard on Christmas Eve for Rudolf and the reindeer to eat. Mike is really excited to do this and if you run into him he is sure to tell you all about it!

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Beautiful Dresser Re-do

2011-12-14T06:29:00.001-08:00

Look what we got!! Yay! After months of pinning beautiful turquoise entertainment pieces on Pinterest and thanks to my talented neighbor, Stacey... I got one! Would you believe this was how it looked before Stacey worked her magic! She just started an etsy shop, Feather Lane Designs, and if you are from central Texas she can even paint a piece you already have... you know that old ugly one you have?

We have pulled the top drawers out to hold our DVR and other t.v. must haves.

Aside for it's beauty and wonderful pop of color... I love the amount of storage it has added to our living room. We can always use more of that!

Inside the big drawers we can store all of our Wii fit stuff, cords and manuals for all our electronics and even throw blankets and games!

In the side drawers we have our DVDs, Will games and accessories, and... well, items to be named later! Would you believe I still have 2 empty ones!!

Don't forget to check out Stacey's etsy shop, Feather Lane Designs and if you are interested in a piece or have a piece you want her to work on... email me!

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My Shepherd Boy...

2011-12-10T12:04:00.000-08:00

December 8th...

For several weeks I have been drilling Mike in attempt to get any information about his up coming Christmas Program... I got nothing outta him! I was way more excited than he was! Turns out he was a shepherd!! and a darn cute one, too! His last performance was two years ago, when he was in the jingle bell band!

I could not get a good picture on stage to save my life, but here he is!

I wanted to post videos because they are pretty hysterical and much clearer than these pictures, but blogger did not like them.

Mike's best friend, our neighbor Gracie was an angel. Sigh... how cute are they!?!

Mike had his fan club there...

Just like his very first Christmas show...

His fan club president and proud mama!

Gracie's fan club was there, too!

Yes, I am pretty sure to live in our new neighborhood you have to have adorable babies!! *Note to absent fan clubs member I will try posting the video to FaceBook!

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Dec. Daily Week 1

2011-12-09T05:46:00.001-08:00

December is well under way! Since this is a very special Christmas for us, as it is our first in our new house and the kids are at perfect ages (2&4) I have started a December Daily Book. In a nut shell, it is a pretty journal that we can record all the little things that we do and feel and think and eat and believe and share and... well you get the picture...

December 1st... It is beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Decor is out of the attic and the playroom tree is up.

We are trying to make our old decorations fit in the new house, so it is a slow process.

There is a little red headed elf that lines up my Nativity every time I turn around... I think he is gonna be a math person!

December 2nd...

Grinch Night! In past Christmases we have not been too into the Grinch, but this year he ranks right up there with The Gingerbread Man! After reading the book we headed up stairs and watched the original cartoon... It was so fun to see the kids glued to the tv watching something Adam and I watched as a kid. Addy kept point and saying "The witch mommy! See the witch?"

We also made ugly Grinch cookies... They were way better than they looked... just like the Grinch!

December 3rd...

Mike has been waiting 354 days for this event... we set up our version of The Polar Express. The kids have been really good about taking turns with this. Mike declared himself "The Little Boss" of the train (mommy is the big boss of everything)... and Addy was ok with this... for now.

December 4th... Daddy took us into town for Christmas shopping. The kids enjoyed picking out gifts for each other. Mike really wanted Addy to get the Nerf Bazooka... I was able to convince him to get for daddy instead. And Addy was happy to get her brother a matching one! After shopping we went to IHOP and had pancakes for lunch... JOY!!

December 5th... We bundled up and went for a walk checking out the neighborhood lights. It is so nice that almost ever house in the neighborhood has lights up... we are really enjoying that!

December 6th...

Mike headed off to school and Addy and I headed to the grocery store where we managed to buy some Christmas spirit...

and we ended the night with our first 'Date Night In' since we moved in. To be honest, I kinda forgot we used to so this in the old house. There we had a "formal" living room where we would have our wine, play some music, and relax... in this house we only have a "formal" dining, but it worked just the same!

I made some decaf Christmas coffee and bought two fancy cannolies... we WILL be doing this again very soon! The normal Kristy would have put the date night off until I found time to make a desert myself, but I stepped out of my box and bought it! And what do ya know, Adam loved it, we ate every bite, AND I did not have to spend all my time in the kitchen baking or cleaning up!

December 7th...

I invited my neighbors over to share company while we address our Christmas cards. I made a yummy breakfast and the mommies chatted and completed one of our many Christmas tasks.

The kids played, colored, and watched movies. As you can tell by these two smiles, everyone had fun!

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Indoor Snowball Fight!

2011-12-06T13:41:00.001-08:00

I saw this super fun idea in a catalogue... check it out HERE. I loved the idea, but knew I could make my own version for a couple of dollars... I could not have made it at a better time, as it just got really, really cold here and the kids and I are somewhat trapped inside (I know us silly Texans right?) and making forts has been a big past time for us... now we make two forts pick teams and throw fake snow balls at each other!

I had this empty paint can (you can get them...never used at Home Depot for $3), but you can use a coffee can or baby formula can. I covered it in wrapping paper, printed out the title, and added some tulle to the handle just to make it pretty. I think it could be fun to let the kids decorate it, too!

Next I made 8 large pom poms... if you don't know how to do this there are lots of tutorials on line... HERE is a pretty short one. Mine are 5 inches and made with thick sparkly yarn that I found on clearance at Hob Lob. All in all, I made mine for $3!! I also think this could be a super fun neighbor gift!

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Dec. 1st... Let the Advent Begin

2011-12-01T15:47:00.000-08:00

Is is just me or did December first get here way too fast? I have been down and out with a back ache and pinched nerve, so I had to scramble get out advent calendars going. Yup, that says calenderS... If you remember my post HERE it was been a long time coming picking a family advent... hmm, never could pick just one so we are doing 3! This one is my favorite. I made it from a Making Memories Kit HERE and inside I have tags with different holiday activities for us to do.

Aww... Dec. 1st was "Christmas Pjs". I grew up getting the on Christmas Eve and did that for the past few years until it hit me- duh... that gives only one day to wear them! So why not get a whole 25 days to wear them!! Well, I don't do laundry everyday (I need too, but don't)... but still more fun to have them for the whole month, right?

I am still struggling to find where all our decorations and stuff will go in this house, but since I was running late I just put it on the pantry door. High enough so Addy cant snatch it!

This picture doesn't do it justice, but it is such a cute calendar and the pockets are wider than a plain old library pocket, so you could fit candy and other things inside. I am sticking to the activities. For me this was an original idea I found several years back at one of my all time favorite blogs, Ser.en.dip.i.ty. She does a red envelope calendar and has a great list of ideas.

A new one for us this year is a book advent... yup, spoke right to my old literacy coaching heart! I wrapped up 25 Christmas books and every night we will open on and read it before bed. Because I has so many books from my teaching days and have a slight obsession with children's books I had plenty! I wish you could have seen my husbands face when he first saw this ready to go-lol. He thought I bought 25 new books! And you don't do that either... start by counting what you have... add movies, coloring books, scrapbooks, cds, and even some printable or mommy made books. It is all about the memory and quality time! If you only have 10 this year, start ten days out!

The last one we are doing is the old fashioned German chocolate advent calendars... in a pinch I bought these at Target. Now, last year Mikey ate all his candy when I was not looking- so this year I got smart and I am keeping the up on a shelf... on display for all to see, but not touch!!

I would like to add one for Adam and I... either a mini date one or one with all of our childhood Christmas photos!

If you are bored and want time to get sucked away right in front of you, check out all the great advents on Pinterest... really fun stuff!

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One Good Dog

2011-11-21T05:56:00.000-08:00

Last week The Fey Family had to say good bye to one good dog. A stranger might have taken one look at our Katie and thought she was a stinky, old mutt of dog... but, to us she was a best friend, protector, and therapist. Adam got her when he was in college, which makes her 14 years old. When Adam left for Afghanistan for 15 months she was my heart and my support. When our kids came along, she didn't seem to mind dropping down a rung or two on our priority list and took her role as protector and playmate pretty serious. She was so gentle and patient with every stage... the crying infant who caused mom to forget to feed her, the terrible toddler who pulled and tugged on her ... the preschooler who was loud, rowdy, bossy, and rough when her joints could least take it. I think she loved my kids almost as much as I do!

Mike was particularly smitten by Katie. Many times she was his best playmate. In the end, he was the one who feed her, took out in the backyard, and even let her sleep under the covers with him. They were two peas in a pod up until the last day. When I told him Katie was going to the doctor and Jesus was going to come get her... he replied "Oh, Jesus will make her better!" Sigh... I told him sometimes Jesus chooses to heal and sometimes He chooses to take the sick home to heaven where they will be happier than ever! I guess because he loved her so much, Mike was okay with this.

I framed this picture of her to put in his room. Everyday he asks me "What are Jesus and Katie doing in Heaven today?" Then we go down a short list of what we think would make her really happy... running at the park, digging up bones, playing at the beach, eating lots of table scraps and treats... even chocolate!

I knew this transition was going to be hard for all of us and I wanted to make sure I did it right. Aside from lots of honest conversation and sincere listening, I came up with a few ideas to help our little family grieve such a big loss...

To honor her and help us all grieve we spent the morning in the backyard with her... it was a lovely day and fun in a sad way... I am pretty sure she knew something was up-lol. It was the first time as parents Adam and I had to really put our own emotions aside and act strong-ish for the kids... I give as a 8, as we tried, but lordy it was hard!

We made her a stepping stone... the kids really enjoyed this. Mike looks at it everyday... this was such a good idea for him. I took her to the vet while they napped so there were no dramatic good byes... (well, until I was in the vet's office where I became a crazy lady). We chose not to bury her in the backyard or even bring home her ashes, as I thought this might be too much and drag out the process. (Several movie scenes ran through my head!)

A friend suggested this Cynthia Rylant book, who happens to be a favorite author of mine. A must read for any child or adult who looses a dog.

The Rainbow Bridge is also a sweet poem to help with the loss of any pet.

In the end I would not change a single thing... Katie had a full happy life and it was time. I think we prepared ourselves well and the kids learned a hard lesson as gently as possible. As for me, I added a new chapter in my parenting hand book... you know, one of those horrible mom moments when it plain old sucks, but can't be avoided, or hidden anyway. Don't get me wrong we did consider the "Katie went to live on farm" story, but she deserved more and really so did we. Replacing her with a puppy was pretty much never even considered-ha! Will miss her dearly and cherish all the sweet and funny memories we have. In the words of a 4 year old "She was my best dog ever and ever!"

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Scrappin' holiday Decor

2011-11-11T11:51:00.000-08:00

I have been making some pretty stuff for Christmas! These "Joy" blocks are for sale in my Etsy shop HERE. I am also hosting a craft night for all my mommy friends to make some, too. I also, have this lovely matching wooden frame. It, too can be bought in my shop. I think it will be cute holding last years Christmas card, a special holiday recipe, or with a picture of your favorite kids... that what is in mine right now!! Please take look at my shop and let me know what you think. I am thinking these would make great teacher, co-worker, Secret Santa, or neighbor gifts... and how cute would the frame be with a gift card clipped to it?! Yup, ya better get one right now! Remember if you are a follower, message me before you buy and I will ship it to you for FREE!

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2011-11-09T14:09:00.000-08:00

Every so often, I see something so great on Pinterest

I just get up and make it happen! One of these such pins is my new AMAZING bun!

If you know me in real life, you know my hair is medium length and very thin... really thin on the top thanks to my babies! So I am always crazy jealous of those mommies with the big, lush bun... namely because they make it look so effortless. But look at my bun, girls! Super cute, and full eh? How ever did I manage this... well, it is called the sock but and yes, you use a sock. It is so easy... effortless! My first one I used on of my dress socks and it was a good bun and I was thrilled with it, but then I ventured into Adam's drawer and found one of his think manly socks and it was even better... the best part is when you take it down, your hair gets such a pretty wave to it! Another, clever idea that has change my life (lol) is this little trick to keep your broken zipper up and locked. For some reason... okay because they are old and worn regularly... my zippers on my two favorite pair of jeans always slips down- UGH! This smart girl HERE used a mini rubber band to hold hers up and the pic I found they used the round part of a key chain- ha! Works like a charm! And to think Adam says Pinning is a waste of my time!!! Pin It

Fall Canvas

2011-11-08T11:38:00.000-08:00

Fall has certainly snuck on me this year.

I guess I was so busy with birthdays and Halloween,

it almost passed me by.

Have no fear, I did find and hour this past weekend

to make something cute... This cute little canvas was inspired by one of my dreams.

It seems weird, I know,

but if you know me in real life

you know how obsessed I can be about my dreams.

I started by ripping up my copy of Eat Pray Love (ha!)

and then modge-podged the pieces to a cheap canvas.

The pumpkin pattern was from my computer clip art.

I cut it a part, traced it on to pretty scrapbook paper,

and layered on the canvas.

This burlap canvas is just three layered circles

sewn together with a vintage button in the center. Lastly, I added a twine bow and hot glued more twine all around the edge to frame it. Now it sits all alone on a book shelf... waiting for a fall friend or two!

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Holiday Bows

2011-11-07T14:19:00.000-08:00

Last week I set out to fill my Etsy shop with some festive Christmas Bows! I am still working a few fun things to add to the shop, but my bags seem to be the best sellers... which by the way would make a great Christmas gift!! Here is my stash of bows... if you see one in the pile you like send message me through Etsy and I can set you up!

My favorite or these red fabric flowers... darling! They look super cute in Addy's hair or my own. I have also been wearing them on my hat... hmm, I should get a pic of that! Here is one of the bows on a little hat. They also look really cute on a headband! These tulle pom poms are Adelyn's favorite!

I made a few stacker bows, too! You can either wear them separate or clip them together for an adorable boutique look!

Adelyn has a bow like this style that I just love on her... it broke (sigh!) But I was able to take it apart and figure out how to make them myself! I love this loopy look! Please head to NEXT TO HEAVEN: THE SHOP and check out my cute Christmas bows. I will do free shipping to all blog followers- just message me before you order and tell me you are a follower!!

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Happy Halloween!

2011-11-01T09:24:00.001-07:00

What a fun filled Halloween weekend we had... After our trip to the pumpkin patch we had a pumpkin carving block party.

It was lots of fun. We are thrilled to have such fun neighbors!

Everyone brought a dish and Adam grilled everyone hot dogs. These are marshmallow and blueberry eyeballs-lol.

Even the delicious 7 layer dip was dressed up!

On Monday afternoon we headed out the door to downtown New Braunfels. All of the local shops where handing out candy and treats! Mike was so excited he could hardly contain himself. He was the big bad wolf... more like the cutest little wolf if you ask me!

He really wanted Addy to be a little pig, but that did not seem fair... So she went as Little Red Ridinghood. Poor thing really had no clue what was going on, but thankfully the shoes made her very happy so she went along with it!

This picture is her seeing the first adult in a costume. Then he gave her candy, which she quickly ate. She pretty much kept eating piece for piece on our stroll down town. By the end of the night we are betting she ate her weight in candy!

There were lots of dogs dress up, which the kids loved. This dog even had is own float!

The most exciting thing that happened was meeting this guy... I wish I could have gotten a pic of Mike's face when he saw, he was not the only big bad wolf! Mike would only get close enough to give him a high five-lol.

By the time we got home and ate a fast dinner the door bell was ringing and the kids were chomping at the bit to head out. Guess gone are the 'wait till dark days'-eh? This by the way was pretty much the best shot of the two of the two of them.

I thought making them sit would help me get a good shot, but the just wanted to watch the street and all the costumes. I was so happy with how they looked together. I wonder how many years I can coordinate their costumes before it is too cheesy?

After about five houses, Adelyn starting getting the hang of it. She would say "Trick or treat please!" followed by "Thank you, bye!" and a few times would ask "Which way do I go now?" to the neighbors. Needless to say she raked in the candy for being so cute!

Here is Mike with his Bff... our neighbor Gracie who was a Southern Bell.

and her is the whole gang... how flippin' cute are they? I wish you could feel their energy and excitement- it was so much fun!

I can't forget my Bff... baby Kade!

So our little neighborhood has 62 lots and most are full, but we had pretty low expectations since it is such a new neighborhood, but boy were we surprise.

House after house, neighbor after neighbor... Mockingbird Heights was the happening place to be! and hardly no junky candy either-lol!

At this point Mike's candy bag was dragging the ground. When we dumped it all out, he declared "this is the best Halloween ever!"

Adelyn was tired and I am pretty sure her tummy hurt,

but she was still eating!

I am pretty sure next year she will be willing to wear anything I throw at her! HAPPY HALLOWEEN FRIENDS!

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The Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-31T10:54:00.000-07:00

The Fey Family finally made it to the pumpkin patch. Seems like something detained us every weekend, but as it turned out we were in for some fantastic fall weather!My main goal was to get some good photos. I set the timer and got this one! It was even better than the sweet lady's who took one for us. Mike was silly, but very cooperative... unlike his sister...

So here are the best Addy pictures out of almost twenty! She was just too excited or stubborn to stop and pose for me! So I gave up and we went to paint our pumpkins which she was more than willing to do! She would have stayed here all day!

Mike enjoyed it, too.

We take our creativity pretty serious around her-lol!

I know the word 'masterpiece' is popping into your head right now-huh?

Next up was feeding the goats.

These guys were pretty eager...

and as payback for not reading my blog... I post this classic picture of Adam's reaction to the goats! Love this picture- bahahaha!

This is my very favorite picture of the day!! If only I had a cool SLR or even photo shop to get rid of those shadows! Man, I make cute kids! The hay maze was pretty funny to watch. The maze turned into chase pretty quickly...

... then it was Monkey See...

...Monkey try really, really hard to do ...in a skirt! Last up was the train ride... which I was told by Mike is really... "just a tractor pulling the cans"

After much deliberation... and even after buying Adam a ticket to ride... We decided Addy could ride alone with Mike in charge.

Just before the first bend we get this look... So daddy did the slow jog with the train... ...em, tractor pulling cans!

All in all... it was the perfect fall day for making fantastic memories!

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Pumpkin Dump Cake

2011-10-29T06:44:00.000-07:00

Last night we made this... All I can say is "WOW" This heavenly recipe was floating around Pinterest from Cookies & Cups! We used Carmel instead of toffee and topped it with pumpkin ice cream! My entire house smelled like fall goodness... ya better make this one, girls! Pin It

Happy Birthday, Addy Bear!

2011-10-24T17:36:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we celebrated Adelyn's 2nd (sigh) birthday by throwing her a Teddy Bear Pic-Nic at our favorite park. The party plans were all inspired by these darling invites from Trinity St Studio on Etsy. Mary was kind (and patient) enough to add the teddy bear! Here is my birthday girl before her party started. Her beautiful dress was made by Lisa from Embellish Kids Boutique on Etsy . We both love and I am pretty sure she will be wearing it weekly at it is perfect for dancing and twirling! Aww, shot of the day... the birthday girl with her biggest fan! She is a daddy's girl through and through. This picture melts my heart! Me and my big girl! There are just no words for what she means to me! Here is our table scapes. I did not get a good picture of the banners, which were the prettiest ones I have ever made due to all the wind, maybe I can get a picture here at home soon! We used the roll of kraft paper to cover the tables again and I laid out some of my pretty scrapbook paper down the middle. The teddy bears and lollipops were from Oriental Trade and made great party favors! Everyone really liked the pumpkins... I just love how the helped make the theme girly! I added a tag to one side of the lollipops and a variety of bows to the bears for that special touch! We spread out a quilt and brought a few pillows for the bears to rest while the kids played on the playground.

How cute is this teddy bear? I named her "good" and her sister "will" after their adoption center (I got two bears that were hot glued to a giant frame for $3.99-score!) The snack mix was candy corn and teddy grams... a pretty tasty combo I might add.

And there she is... GoodWill bear #2 with a flower and bow to make her fit for the party.

Grandma made the cake again and I had very adorable cupcakes with a teddy gram and cupcake toppers on top, but no pictures (sigh, again)

We put together boxed lunches for everyone. We had BLTs, PBJs, and Ham and Cheese sandwiches. I put scrapbook paper in frames I had (from Mike's room) to make sure everyone knew which wich was which.

The boxes were layered with tissue paper, a piece of fruit, a baggie of pretzels and the bear mix, a sandwich and plastic ware tied with twine. The PBJ's were shaped like teddy bears for the kids.

The little kids really enjoyed themselves... I wish I could post this series of pictures of these three cuties eating and watching the park happenings! So funny!

After lunch there was more playing, running, and swinging! Present time! Even while she was opening the gift, she really did not understand they were hers. She kept saying "Mikey's presents" and trying to walk away... However, now that the presents are home she is very clear about who they belong, too.

Then it was cake time! It was pretty great to see all of Addy's cousins, friends, and neighbors lined up to sing happy birthday! Adelyn was a little overwhelmed... well, it was either that or the fact that everyone started singing without her, I am still not sure where the tears came from! At her first party she LOVED the singing so much we sang to her twice. Oh, those two year olds! I want to thank everyone who came to Addy's party for making her feel so special! Thanks to my parents and my neighbor Ashley who helped me make my vision a reality! And thanks to my sweet, lovingly, funny, strong willed, beautiful daughter who fills my life with more joy than I deserve! We are one amazingly blessed family!

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Overly Inspired

2011-10-22T04:45:00.000-07:00

So how does a mommy realize that she is overwhelmed with creative inspiration? She wakes and sees she forgot to paint the toes on BOTH feet! What on earth would make a crafty mommy feel this excited and inspired? Planning the 2nd birthday party of her very favorite little girl!

I have to admit, part of my problem was pushing off the party plans for her big event. You see, I am just not ready for my baby to turn two! I am not ready for the baby and toddler years to be just a memory. I want to freeze time or put bricks on her head! Oh okay, the overwhelming, wonderful party ideas on PINTEREST did not help... I had trouble "pinning" down just one theme, center pieces, food, invites.... on and on! In the end I went with a Teddy Bear Fall Pic-Nic... aww! And this little project has been so much fun to make!

The inspiration came from this PIN and led me to Rhonda G's BLOG. I however, painted my pumpkins instead of using stickers and vinyl. The ribbon is layered on with wire! Even Adam was impressed when he saw them. For me they were easy, cheap, and they really fit Addy's personality... bright, girly, and cute as heck... not to mention her bow obsession. (Yes, our bow obsession!)

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Night and Day

2011-10-21T05:42:00.000-07:00

It is morning at the Fey house and this is what you get.... One super happy kid who bounds down the stairs, runs across the living room, leaps into your arms, and gives hugs and kisses. He has even been known to sing and dance before breakfast- gasp! This kid is a morning person... just like his mama!

And then, there is kiddo #2... you must allow this kid 15- 20 minutes of alone time in her bed before you speak to her, you must wrap her in a blanket (even in July) and carry her down the stairs. She only speaks in grunts or squeals, until she feels "ready" to talk. My baby is anything but a morning person... just like her daddy! Her nick name is "Bear" which came way before her personality, but trust me... it fits!! So what happens when kid 1 and kid 2 live under one roof... because we all know the one thing you "un-morning people" hate is us joyful morning people? Let's just say, mommy's role as peacemaker is at an all time high! The only thing these two agree on is Jake and The Neverland Pirates and breakfast!

Speaking of breakfast... remember this book I told you I bought and liked so much? Well, it has really helped me add some variety to our meals... especially breakfast.

I have always tried to serve the kids two hot breakfast meals a week (and always on the weekends when daddy cooks), but I would normally skip them and Adam would make oatmeal at work.

Now, I make the kids scrambled eggs (one egg and two whites) and Adam and I are eating something balanced as well... like this low fat, whole wheat english muffin sandwich... Mario suggested adding a fresh tomato slice- YUM! and if you have not tried 2% or reduced fat cheese in awhile- trust me these products have come a long way!

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"Orange" You Glad It's Fall?

2011-10-20T05:07:00.000-07:00

The kids and I hosted another fun playdate for all of our new friends. We made these easy and fun torn paper pumpkins

with poster board and orange construction paper.

I had bottles of glue for the big kids and

had q-tips and a little cups of glue for the small kids.

Everyone brought something orange to eat.

We had carrots, jello, oranges, goldfish,

cookies, cheese slices,

orange juice, and cheetos!

Adelyn made THREE orange pumpkins.

She loves making cute stuff, just like her mommy.

Mike?

Oh, he did not even make one!

He was "too busy"... playing!

This craft is perfect for all ages...

the toddlers And the preschoolers enjoyed it.

And it makes for a quick and easy clean up! We ended the fun with orange pumpkin suckers- yum!

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I saw it, I pinned it, and this one I made!

2011-10-17T10:58:00.000-07:00

They have these cute

painted burlap pumpkins

all over Etsy and Pinterest...

They sell for $30 or more!

I made mine from kraft paper...

you know the big ole roll from Lowe's

that I use to cover tables at parties,

or mail packages in!

I found a nice fat pumpkin shape I liked on line,

traced two onto the kraft paper,

painted it,

hot glued it together,

stuffed it with plastic bags,

modge-podged over the whole thing, and then

added a simple wire hanger and a raffia bow.

Man, it feels so good to hold something I pinned in my little hands!

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Mommy Made Halloween Games

2011-10-14T04:19:00.000-07:00

Shhh... look at this!

My four year old (boy!) and

my almost 2 year old girl are

engaged and busy!

What are they working on you ask...

just a few fun games mama made them! Adelyn is working on some

batty color matching. She is really into games these days... I am not sure if it a girl thing or a 2nd child thing, but she is way more into "mama's ideas" than Mike was or is-lol. To make the game pieces I modge podged a colored circle to the glass rocks. I also made the same game in number matching for Mike and for those piece I just wrote the numbers on top with a sharpie! I had these bats from my teaching days, but how easy would it be to trace one on to black card stock...

Mike is having a blast working on a project I started last year...

Halloween Paper Dolls!

This fantastic magnetic zinc board

came from the Gibson Girls.

We are super loving this thing!

Psst... they are only $12!

and less than $2 to ship!

(tell them I sent you!)

Here are the dolls!

Punch 'em out,

laminate or contact paper 'em,

slap a stickey magnet on the back,

and play away!

Lastly, I wanted to give my honey a shout out!

He has been converting

all of our mini Sony HandiCam disks to DVD!!

Every night this week

we have made a pot of "poppy corn"

and watched home movies!

We laugh and I cry...

aww, my babies are so big!!

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Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

2011-10-13T02:03:00.000-07:00

Adam and I saw these in our current issue of Food Net Work Magazine we knew we had to make them! And holy moly are we glad we did! PUMPKIN WHOOPIE PIES From the Neely's Cookies... 1/2 cup butter, room temperature 1 1/4 cups sugar 1 egg 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking powder Pinch salt Filling (I would suggest doubling the filing!): 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature 1/2 stick unsalted butter, room temperature 2/3 cup confectioners' sugar 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon Pinch salt Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Using a stand mixer, add the butter and sugar and beat together until light and fluffy. Add the egg, then the buttermilk and the vanilla. Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Add the dry ingredients in increments to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Drop heaping tablespoons of the batter onto parchment lined sheet trays, leaving a 2-inch space between each cookie. Put in the oven and bake for 8 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool on rack. Beat together the cream cheese and butter, in a small bowl, until smooth. Slowly add in the confectioners sugar. Once smooth, add the pumpkin puree, the cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth and well mixed. To assemble the cookie, spread a heaping tablespoon of the filling to the flat side of a cookie and sandwich with another. Repeat with the remaining cookies. Transfer to a serving platter and serve These were a messy and fun to make as they were to eat!

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Some Family Fun

2011-10-12T04:45:00.000-07:00

We have been pretty busy around here lately... that is one thing about fall... there just is not enough of it! Mike is playing "real" soccer. We did soccer tots for about a year and that was great, so we figured he was ready for the real deal.

The practices were hit and miss for us... by that I mean, we did have a few melt downs and misinterpretations on how to play the game. "My friends aren't sharing the ball!" "My friends won't take turns kicking the ball" and my favorite "I am not fast, mommy!" But he did score one of our two goals the first game and his confidence is building.

and if we have to get up early on a Saturday morning, at least we get to watch these cutie pies have fun. Sometimes the parents are laughing more than we are cheering!

I also got some girl time with my sister, Kelly!!

We went to dinner and then got to see Miranda Lambert in concert in Austin! She puts on such a fun girly show... ya gotta love a girl who sings songs that empower women! Plus, who else can were a sequence skirt with boots and a t-shirt!!

Grandma also treated Mike and I to the Mary Poppins show at the Majestic Theater!! It was, what I hope will be, the first of many plays for Mike. He loved it. He ate every snack in my purse and then some, but this was a fantastic play to take a four year old to! and I have to add, it ranked right up there with Wicked and Miss Saigon for me. It was simply magical- I was so moved during Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious... that I teared up and got chills! Really, you should go!!

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Halloween Advent

2011-10-11T01:26:00.000-07:00

"What on earth do you need all these dang toilet paper rolls for?" Yup, that is what I heard for almost three weeks while my collection was established! I have to give a big shout out and thank you to KENDRA from The Duty Chronicles who has fantastic Christmas advent idea and simple tutorial on her adorable blog. If you remember I made on last year HERE, but it was destroyed in the move and I will add kinds tough to make, so since I had to make a new one I went for Halloween this year I went with Kendra's.

Here is mine!! It hangs on the garage door in our kitchen. NOTE: The numbers were not on it yet as they took a pretty fatal fall from Addy and had to be re-cut... but they are pretty simple to add.

So, I used a glue gun to cover the rolls and the tied them each together with tulle.

One of the big reasons I liked this one is because it will hold more than just candy and two of each thing... one for Addy and one for Mike.

On day one I had a piece of card stock that said "Halloween Pjs" They were a big hit to start the calendar and look loved adorned with several necklaces and a superman cape!

I also stuck in Halloween socks from Targets dollar spot!

Some of their other prizes include, a small flashlight, stamps, stickers, slime, glow sticks, spider rings, fangs, and witch fingers. I also have a paper that says "CUPCAKES" and then I have a pack of Halloween cupcake toppers and sprinkles. And then all the other days have candy in them!

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The Halloween Switch-o-Roo

2011-10-10T12:44:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I posted about out family "launch pad" and mentioned how I hoped to be able to switch it our for different holidays. Well, guess what? I did and it really was very easy! Thank goodness for coll Halloween scrapbook paper!

Here is the new version of my weekly dry erase calendar. Again I just cut the paper to size, added stickers to mark the day of the week, and then just put then on top of the old ones! This way I will not have to worry about storing them- they will always just sit behind each other.

Here is the before and after... super simple!

In the frame that would normally hold our "family Rules" I just added some more scrapbook paper and then pictures from past Halloweens... I am still working on printing some of these. I even hope to have a few from when Adam and I were kids!

Our little shelf has more simple, child friendly decor. Trust me almost everything came for the dollar stores or Targets dollar spot!

The entry way buffet now have a spooky little face lift.

Everything sparkles! And you might notice the tin haunted house in the corner- do not worry it was not a fortune from Pottery Barn... good ole Home Goods for $14. If you have not been to a Home Goods... find the closest one and start driving!!

My cloche never looked so scary!

This little festive cluster sits on our bar. We always have a tin box here to catch all the junk... keys, coupons, sunglasses, and Adam's wallet. I changed it out this orange and black tin basket. A cheap jar tied with a scrappy tag and tulle holds the evil candy corn! And my black candle has a little piece of fabric and a scrapbook sticker. Stay tuned for a post on our new Halloween Advent calendar!! You will love it...

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Homemade Pumpkin Coffee Creamer

2011-10-05T06:27:00.000-07:00

It just happens to be the start of my very favorite time of year, which means it is time for one of my very favorite guilty pleasures... pumpkin coffee creamer!

Lucky me, stumbled upon this wonderful organic cooking blog, Deliciously Organic who happens to have several recipes for making your very own creamer. We have already made 3 batches of this stuff... mmmm... fall heaven in a jar!

Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer

1cup of organic whole milk

1cup of organic heavy whipping cream

3 tablespoons of organic pumpkin puree (I used 4-ha!)

1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice

4 table Maple Syrup (I prefer pretty high quality you can taste the difference) 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

(I also added 1 teaspoon of cinnamon)

Whisk milk, cream, pumpkin, syrup, and pumpkin spice together over medium heat. When it gets steamy remove from heat and add in the vanilla. Use a strainer to transfer the cream into a kar or pitcher... do not skip this step, trust me. I used a recycled frapachino bottle! Let it cool down and chill it the refrigerator. We have found that the flavor is stronger the next day. Another hint... the site suggests making a double batch but refrain for being as eager as we were-lol... one batch it makes a ton and it is so easy why not just make if fresh every few days.

Some other flavors on the site include... peppermint mocha, cinnamon strudel, and chocolate almond. Now, if that doesn't start you day off right, I am just not sure what would!!

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I Will Never Be the Same...

2011-10-01T12:11:00.000-07:00

It is October and although I am excited and busy with all the fun crafts, meals, activities, and of course Adelyn's birthday party in the works... this month is also the month that miscarriage haunts me the most. As most of my readers know I lost baby #2 at 12 weeks and baby #3 ( I call her Meagan) at 17 weeks both in the month of October. And although the third October, I gave birth to a very healthy baby girl, after a very healthy pregnancy... It is still sad, lonely, and kind of a lost month for me. The biggest lesson I have learned since my tragic losses is that "I will never be the same... I will never be the girl I was before" and that is not a bad thing! This year a friend of mine, delivered stillborn baby girl and two friends gave birth to babies after miscarriages... I felt like I was there for these girls like not many of their friends could have been. The thing about miscarriage is that all too often it is more like a dirty little secret women do not share or want to talk about and that makes me mad!! Trust me when I say it took me awhile to figure this out... but I am not the only one when feels like this.

The beautiful and intelligent Lisa Ling also suffered the life changing effects of miscarriage and she too, felt like she became a member of a secret society... a member of a club no women ever wants to join or speak about. This led her to start a website for women called "The Secret Society of Woman" where girls can talk freely about miscarriage and anything else.

I have another girlfriend who has HPV, a friend who has a cheating husband, several who have had infertility issues and/ or postpartum depression, a friend who was date raped, a friend who is in AA... all of these beautiful, intelligent girls are who they are... good, bad and ugly. It is so important that we know we are not alone... good bad and ugly we should never feel that are alone in our strife or struggles!! Check out Lisa's interview here and take a second to say a prayer for all the girls in your life who might be struggling with life right now!

Lisa Ling Reveals Miscarriage - ABC News Pin It

Scrappy Decor

2011-09-29T12:28:00.000-07:00

Things are starting to look pretty 'spooky' around here! I just love a Hand Made Halloween! A couple of weeks ago I was thrilled to attend the CKC Convention in San Marcos. I did take some classes and will post about those later, but I also did some pretty great shopping!

One of my favorite booths was from the Gibson Girls... they have lots of cute things. (I did get one of their very cute and genius no slip headbands! and wish I would have got a hat) This was one of their kits! It came with all the pieces and I all I had to do was cut, ink, glue, and hang!

How cute is this pumpkin! It is actually three layered pieces... I can see it making a super cute applique, too! I added the stitching marks and of course inked the edges.

We all know how I feel about ribbon! Now, I am waiting for our family picture from last years pumpkin patch trip to put on the frame that I doodled!

This adorable sign was made from card stock and pipe cleaners!! I just love it! Wouldn't it make a cut "boo" gift or teacher gift!

Easy Halloween Place Mat Puzzles

2011-09-28T12:01:00.000-07:00

This week I have made a few fun Halloween games and activities for the kids. I had posted some of these foam place mats puzzles from my classroom days, but since I just found these cute place mats at Big Lots I figured some of you might want to make them, too. My place mats we $1.50 at Big Lots. I bought one for Mike (4) and one for Addy (22mths). These are not the hard plastic place mats, but are the think foam-ish ones.

Mike likes scary stuff these days and Addy, like most 2 year olds, is really digging pumpkins. Keeping this in mind I knew one puzzle would be a little harder than the other.

So with a sharpie draw your puzzle shapes and then mark the pieces with a number just in case they get mixed up. Because the rubberish/ foamish place mats are thick they fit together perfectly so go on and make lots of insert pieces. As a matter of fact, the more the puzzle locks together the better. Next follow your lines with some sharp scissors. Yup, it is that easy!

Here is Adelyn's... see how great it fits together. Nothing is more frustrating for a toddler than when their chubby hands can't make the pieces stick. That is not the case here!

Mike's puzzzle has ten pieces, but I could have made them smaller and had more pieces!

I sure wish I could end this post with a picture of my kids putting them together, but it seems like the only time I get to blog these days are when they are napping.

Your turn... go make something fun!

Call Me!

2011-09-21T13:48:00.000-07:00

This is a project that has been on my list for a long time... an altered Rolodex!

I need something to add all my new business cards and phone numbers that Adam or a sitter can get to!

I did not over do anything (this time) I traced and cut out the dividers and added ABC letters and some twine for interest.

The black Rolodex came from Office Max for less that $5! Also, I have seen some with pictures for the contacts or even used as a scrapbook and not as a Rolodex at all! FUN!

A Roaring Good Time!

2011-09-20T01:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we hosted a dinosaur play date for our new mommy group! I had so much fun making little things to make the play date feel fun and special.

This is my door banner that I made from a Tip Junkie Printable- cute, huh?

I made the snacks simple... fruit, lemon aid, crackers, pretzels, and dino shape sandwiches!

Mike brought down all his favorite dino toys and books. He even dug out his Halloween costume from last year!

Mike also, helped stuff goody bags. This would be my favorite play date tip... this super simple bag really helps ease the pain of having to leave to go home. So many times Mike and Addy would get upset when the play date was over, but having something fun to open in the car really helps!

I had the bags from another party and added a box of raisins, plastic mini dino, and a laffy taffy! The cute tags came from Tip Junkie, too!

Aside from playing dinosaurs, we also had dinosaur stickers and a t-rex to color.

The good ole Melissa & Doug dino stamps were also, a big hit!

I was really proud of Mike sharing his toys... it him a bit to warm up. At first he had a look but do not touch policy, but after a quick mommy chat he saw the light! This is exactly why I wanted to start hosting play dates... such big lessons in sharing, grace, and building friendships!

Adelyn, also had a blast... she was all over the place trying to help everyone. She was a sweet little hostess.

** A little mommy advice... I found both of my mommy/ playgroups through meetup.com! Please check it out... they have all sorts of groups even single and working mom groups!

It's Raining!

2011-09-19T13:01:00.001-07:00

We were blessed with three days of rain! It was beautiful in every way... the sky, the sound, the smell, and especially watching the kids enjoy it!

Now i need to pull out my cute umbrella scrapbook paper!

What we are reading...

2011-09-13T13:48:00.001-07:00

I have not posted our current reads in awhile and since I just got my new order from amazon, I thought it was about time... My friend Erin sent me a copy of Redeaming Love by Francine Rivers. I finished it last week and I really liked it. It has a christian theme and sure made me think about my own faith. Some would say it is a love story, but for me it was a story about God's grace and forgiveness... which form me, as many christians, struggle with when it comes to the big unjustices of the world.

Super thrilled with this book by Slater... ummm,I mean Mario Lopez. This book has great reviews and know I know why. In a nut shell it is a five week family meal plan to help you and the kids eat better and feel better. I bought it thinking I need some good recipes, but girls, this is chock full of GREAT ideas and information. I am sure I will have a few more posts on this one!

To go along with, Extra Lean Family, I bought PrayFit... It seems like every time I turn around someone is talking about this and since it combines one of my biggest battles (weight loss) with one of my biggest strengths (faith) I think it will be a hit. The website devoted to this program/ lifestyle is pretty great , too. Sometime this month the PrayFit Family book is coming out... adding that to my wish list!

And again, because every time I turn around friends are raving about the Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins I am starting this one... have you read it?

Adam is reading... okay skimming this book my parents gave him. We are trying to get the back yard ready for gardening and entertaining this spring. I hope this inspires him!

Mike has been on a very silly kick these days... he will do anything for a laugh. He adores this book and thinks the poems are just as funny as the illustrations. Alan Katz has a few more books I will have to add to Mike's Christmas list!

Even though, he is on his 2nd week of school... he stills wants to read The Night Before Preschool every night. He can really relate to it and it makes him happy. I also bought the kindergarten version and the first grade versions for our cousins... who both liked them!

At 22 months Adelyn has decided that SHE will be doing all the reading in her room. If you try to read a book to her (even a brand new one) she quickly takes it from you and begins touching and "reading" the words. My favorite part about this is that even the bible becomes a "Peek-A-Boo" book... she says, "Where's Jesu-sh? Peek a boo!"... lol. These Peek-A-Boo books can make a reader our of any kid... we super love them!

Happy Reading!!

DIY Compost Bin

2011-09-10T04:09:00.000-07:00

Our latest home project was a small compost bin... yes, we are already thinking about spring gardens! Just before we moved we planted out first herb, veggie, and flower garden. It made so sad to leave before we could even harvest one pepper, but trust me we are fully enjoying the day dreaming for our new one.

I have been pinning several fun backyard ideas and this little bin was the birth of a few of those pins. Check out all my "backyard" pins HERE. (warning: pinning can be as addicting as crack)

Everyone chipped in to help. The whole project coat about $50 and too less than three hours. The weather was so nice it even felt a little like spring!

Adelyn has become quiet the daddy's girl in the garage. She really loved being outside and helping.

I had to squeeze this picture in the post because it is my new favorite. At 22 months she is becoming more of a girl than our baby. (ps. I am trying to grow out her bangs-man, it is tough!)

Even I helped... here is the proof. Now, you can see I am not showered, no makeup, bed hair, and wearing Adam's tee-shirt, BUT instead of deleting this picture I chose to post it... lol! And here is our new compost bin!! It is 3 feet around, which seemed perfect when we were planning, but now we wish we would have made it 5 feet. We did three side chicken wire and one side is covered with wooded slats to make it prettier (if a compost bin can be pretty?) I have been doing my research about organic composting and with the expertise of my parents I think it will be a great success! Here is our first dump!! By Spring I bet we have the richest garden on the cul de sac!

Our Launch Pad & New Weekly Calendar

2011-09-09T05:44:00.000-07:00

When we were building our house one of my biggest concerns was the lack of an entry way closet. My first thought was "Where will we put all our bags, coats, and stuff when we walk in?"... Adam's thought was..."We always came in from the garage anyway!" Hmmm... good point! That got me thinking about the details of the "Family Launch Pad" I found this Ballard Design look alike at Marshall's and the fantastically big basket with a chalk board label at target for our many shoes. (This also happens to be one of Adelyn's very favorite past times... putting on everyone's shoes) Everything else was pretty much from the old house.

Aside from making this area VERY functional, I wanted it to be easily switched out for the holidays, as the open floor plan of our house leaves little wall or decorating space.

The area was inspired by my "Family Rules" frame for the old house. HERE is the original post on that. I loved the colors and whimsy of it, so I just went with it!

I found the exact same frame at Wal-Mart ($10) and made a weekly dry erase calendar. Here is the much asked for link to the frame.

This is my original calendar, which I also loved, but the colors just did not work here. The funny thing about this simple calendar is how much we all use it.... Adam checks it out to see what we are up to while he is at work and talks to the kids about their day. The kids use it kind of like a countdown... especially now that Mike is going to school on Tuesday and Thursday... he can see when it is coming. And me- well, everyday I use it because sometimes my weeks blur together-lol.

The big middle frame is a work in progress... I covered the back in burlap and I am still not sure what it will be... maybe lots of things. I started with this quote I found in Pinterest. It looks a little bulletin board like, but it still kinda works.

Since taking these pictures I have already added hooks and a dinner bell (must post that because it is pretty cute). I still have the book shelf to fill and I would like to make a few whimsical pillows for the bench.

And in true Kristy fashion, I am already thinking about switching it our for FALL!! Yay!

Back to School Tags

2011-09-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

Since we got Mike's backpack and lunch box at the Pottery Barn Outlet, we did not get in monogrammed... I know- bummer! Right? I went ahead and made my own tags with my Cricut machine!

Took me 10 minutes and they were a perfect match.

I used these very handy laminating pouches from Walmart... also HERE from amazon! Really loving them and have plans to use the whole pack soon!

Of course there are plenty of FREE PRINTABLE ones on line like these from ANDERS RUFF... they even have cute girly ones. Better head up stairs to print one for Addy's new backpack and lunchbox!

First Day

2011-09-06T08:25:00.001-07:00

I think we are the last ones to start school this year, but it was worth the wait! The weather was perfect and Mike (and mommy) had plenty of time to prepare for the big day! Mike will be going to preschool two days a week from 9 to 2. It is bitter sweet for me... I will miss him and feel sad he is getting so close to 'real' school, but I know he needs to build relationships, mature, and get all those pre-reading skills down before next year.

He was thrilled... thrilled with his shark backpack, thrilled to bring a lunch, thrilled with his new clothes, and most thrilling of all... FRIENDS!

We found 'THE' backpack at the Pottery Barn Outlet (yup, 20 minutes from our new house- come visit!) It caught me by surprise how much I under estimated Mike going to school would effect Addy. When we were taking pictures she ran and got her (empty) lunch box and wanted to sit by Mike for pictures. My favorite pic... it just screams first day of school. Poor kiddo with all the poses! Aw, Addy trying to get in the picture and be like her big brother. I am going to miss this kid all day today... who will tell me poop jokes, fetch diapers, and keep sister in line. I do know his teachers are lucky ladies!

A Head Start...

2011-09-02T06:12:00.000-07:00

September is already here, which means October is around the corner- woo hoo! In preparations for Halloween I have been making Trick-or-Treat bags for my kids and my etsy shop. Here is one for Addy... I added a bow to the ghost and some eye lashes! Turned out really cute!

This is my monster design... I love getting to make something cute for boys! I think this will be Mike's Halloween t-shirt this year!

My Frankenstein applique from last year was so much fun I put it on a bag this year. I am also working a girly one for Addy- pig tails and all!

The bags have this fun peek-a-boo patch on the back so I can add a monogram!

I am selling the bags for $20 at my etsy shop HERE. Come check them out!!

Organic Money Savers and My Menu

2011-08-28T17:05:00.000-07:00

We are a 80 to 90% organic house these days. All fruit, dairy and veggies are organic and most of our meats and snacks. Pork, ground turkey, and oreos are still kinda hard to find organic here! A few things I have learned to make up for the price difference is to package our own snacks. I make my own yogurt and applesauce cups.

Sometimes I add fresh fruit...

Sometimes mini- m&ms... too bad they do not have organic m&ms, huh?

Monday: Stuffed Shells (going meatless!)

Tuesday: turkey burgers w/ roasted veggies

Wednesday: cafe rio pork tacos

Thursday: creamy pan chicken

Friday: date night

Saturday: B-day party at the lake

Sunday: Chicken spaghetti

If You're and You know It...

2011-08-24T04:27:00.000-07:00

Preformed by the amazingly cute and talented...

Addy Bear Fey

Formal Livingroom: Phase 2

2011-08-23T04:28:00.000-07:00

Making a house into a home is so much harder than I ever gave it credit for. We have been here in for six weeks... sometimes it seems like forever and sometimes it seems like yesterday. Every room is up and going and somewhat comfortably decorated... That is why I call this Phase 2- It is more than livable, but not yet done! Our formal living room is important to us, this go around because after reflecting about our old house, we both agree that we did not open our home up enough to friends and neighbors. In this house we want to use all the time! I am looking forward to dinners with the neighbors, friends, and family PLUS, date nights after the kids go to bed!

I was hoping to get a warm kinda wine cellar look in here, so we went with a warm green color and hope to add a wood crown molding (in phase 4)

I found this Pottery Barn look alike at The Home Depot for $150. This one is not meant to hang over a table, but that means nothing to me! For dramatic effect, we set a dimmer on it- so those candles really can look like candle light! We bought the matching entry way fixture, too.

The buffet in the back was (in phase1) located in our entry way, but we swapped it out with the buffet that matches our table... that was Adam's idea (wow)

This is one of my most cherished possessions... my Nana's china and her china cabinet. The picture over the cabinet was hers, too. My dad bought it for her at a flea market for a couple of dollars. It is amazing how sentimental it is for me and now my family.

I have ordered burlap curtains from Pottery Barn that remind me of these chairs. Those should be here on Tuesday, which will complete Phase 3!

Here is my sore spot- this arch. I like it as far as adding to the room, but painting it was a booger! Do I do green or the brown (that looks gold in pics). I am still not confident in my choice of going brown, but I will stick to it for awhile.

We moved the corner chairs later that night and then happy with our job well done started using the new room. We had a much deserved glass of... water and Adelyn put on a dance show (to be posted later!)

Here is a shot with the chair moved!

Hmmm... gives it a tad more room!

Here is a sneak peek of our entry way, also in Phase 2!

So our front door is here to the right and then the dining room is across from it.

What a great working weekend! I feel accomplished! As we were going to bed Adam said, "It is really starting to feel like home!" The wife and mommy in me felt great hearing that!

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Tostada Night & My Menu

2011-08-22T05:46:00.000-07:00

We have been doing a Family Pizza Night on Fridays for awhile and the kids really like it, so a few days back we were going to have tacos and I had the wild idea of making them tostadas instead. I piled all the toppings on the table and let the kids build there own... spills and all!

My taco meat is 1/2 organic beef and 1/2 turkey, which saves a few organic pennies! I also add in the black beans because I love them and the kids eat more when they are mixed in.

This lazy- susan makes it easy for everyone to get to what they need and these hard, chunky bowls not only look festive, but are perfect for little hands.

Mike jumped in and even wanted to make my tostada for me!

Addy is very serious about her food, but with a little help from daddy she was happy with her results.

Of course everything tastes better with four bows, three clippies, and a headband on your head, right?

Monday: bbq baked chicken & corn

Tuesday: Chicken Salad (Addy's Dance recital)

Wednesday: tostadas

Thursday: Steak Stir Fry

Friday: Family Pizza

Saturday: Out

Sunday: Lemon Roasted Chicken

Ahoy! Pirate Play

2011-08-16T06:15:00.000-07:00

The kids and I were a little restless the other day so, I asked Mike, "Do you have any ideas?"... his reply was "Let's make a map!" Which led to a morning of pirate fun! Since we start our mornings off with Jake, it seemed natural that our map would be a treasure map.

We found inspiration from a few of our current favorite books...

Thanks, Erin and Sophia!

The map included pirate places like Crocodile Island, Zombie Lake, and Shark Attack Cove... where do they get this stuff!

Adelyn was... ummm... helpful... yup, that's it... helpful! (wink)

I suggested we crumble up the map to make it look old, which did not go over well at first, but has saved a few fits now that it can't really be ruined!

We had some left over eye patches and coins from an old play date...

Pretty as a... pirate!

This wine box makes for the perfect treasure chest!

We pulled out a few swords and make toilet paper roll binoculars.

Mike's bed became his ship... he called himself Captain Mikey, I called him Red Beard (lol)

We had to avoid the school of sharks trying to attack us.

Mike is still keeping close count of his treasure.

and continues to refer to his map days later...

The kids had so much fun pretending and for me it felt good to be involved. What a joy to watch Mike role play and Addy, well she is not exactly there as far as being a pirate, but she makes for one good mommy and saved her babies from the sharks!

2011-08-15T06:19:00.000-07:00

Well, last weeks menu plan took a few twists and turns, namely because my shopping trip was left incomplete. I bet you are thinking I am about to tell you a mommy nightmare about my two kids in the grocery store... Well, believe it or not, not this time! They were angle babies, my problem was that I filled the entire cart before hitting the produce! So, we scrambled a bit last week, but hope this week we stick to the plan! Monday: Grilled Chicken Salad Tuesday: Lasagna Wednesday: Creamy Pan Chicken (a favorite) Thursday: Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes (for my boys) Friday: Family Pizza Saturday: Brisket Sunday: Something yummy off the grill

Greman Chocolate Pie

2011-08-13T02:54:00.000-07:00

Adam loves Greman Chocolate Cake

and like all men... he loves pie!

For a sweet surprise I combined his two faves

for one yummy desert... German Chocolate Pie

8" pie shell, baked (make it yourself-it is easier than you think)
1 small box of dark chocolate pudding (not instant!)
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup fine coconut
1/2 cup chopped pecans
Cool Whip topping (thawed)

After your pie shell is baked, cover the bottom with a handful of chocolate chips. Put it in the microwave to melt and soften the chips. Cook pudding according to the directions on the box, but stir in the coconut and pecans. Pour hot pudding into shell and chill until pudding is set. Before serving, top with Cool Whip and a sprinkle of chocolate chips, coconut, and pecan.

Strawberry Nachos

2011-08-12T06:46:00.001-07:00

The kids and I made this yummy AND healthy snack.

I found the idea in my handy ole Food Network magazine. Strawberry Nachos

1 tortilla per person

melted better or spray butter

cinnamon and sugar Cool Whip

diced fresh strawberries

Slice tortilla into wedges and coat in butter. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar.

Bake at 350' until golden brown. Spread on the Cool Whip. Top each chip with strawberries. Eat up!

Etsy Shop

2011-08-11T08:13:00.000-07:00

I started an etsy shop!! Only two things listed... my canvas bags!

Just in time for school!

And if you are a blog follower

I will do free shiping,

just let me know before you order.

Canvas Wall Quote Tutorial

2011-08-10T07:40:00.000-07:00

I kinda wanted to call this subway art, but not sure it fits exactly that title. However, you could surely make it more "subway-ish" ...or do many different things with this technique for that matter. My inspiration came from Urban Soul.

The song of Ruth is very special to Adam and I. We used in our wedding vows weeks before he left for Afghanistan and he even have in engraved on his wedding band. Even now, after the long move we have endured it still remains a sort of mantra for our family.

So, what you need is a canvas or two (mine were 12x12) a ruler, pencil, vinyl, and good scissors or a cricut, and two paint colors. First, paint and prime the canvas with the color you want your words to be (mine are cream). Next, either trace and cut your words or use your die-cut machine to cut words from vinyl (or contact paper it is cheaper!). You could also use stickers. (mine was a combo of the first two). HINT: It really helped that I was almost exactly copying the already made print. You may want to find something to copy to save on time!

Use a ruler to mark straight lines. You will paint over the so do not worry if they don't erase! Go over the words with a bone folder or a credit card to press down the words smooth and firm.

Paint a good thick coat of your background color right over the words and the edges of your canvas.

Do not let dry completely... just let it get tacky not wet and lift your letters up. HINT: tweezers worked well as my fingers caused a little smudging! Now, let it dry completely and hang it up.

After hanging mine up, I decided to go back and distress it a bit with black ink and some sandpaper. This project did cost more then I expected at $26. I bought nice quality canvases from Hob Lob and used an entire package of vinyl, but I was thrilled with the results and am currently working on a playroom and laundry room version!

If you wanna see my gallery wall in process check it out HERE!

My Photo Gallery (In Process)

2011-08-09T06:43:00.000-07:00

For over three months, while waiting for the house to be built... I would fall asleep at night thinking about my gallery wall. After doing my research (blog stalking) I was surprised at how many gallery walls I did not like, but then how many I loved. Thus, mine is still a work in progress. I got the canvas from a groupon... love it... worth every penny... but would never pay full price! Mine was $40 for a 16x20 from Canvas On Demand.

All of my frames came from Hobby Lobby when they were %50 off. Because this was a big vocal point in the house I did not want to spray paint old frames... but that would have totally worked and as the wall grows. And that pretty "Home" art was a gift from my friend Erin... it was a perfect fit! (Thanks Erin!)

The empty frame is going to have a "F" inside. The two "Fs" I had were too big... So I am on the hunt! I may have to make a vinyl one with my handy ole Cricut.

I made these two canvases. They were inspired by THESE from the Urban Soul line at Day Springs. They do not sell anymore... but don't worry I took pictures along the way and will post them soon! (The tutorial post is HERE)

Not part of my gallery wall but by far one of my favorite buys for the new house is this lamp. It was a gift from my Aunt Loretta and cousin Michelle! (Thanks!) It is from Lowes and I could not have designed a better lamp of my taste than this.... plus she has a sister...

Who proudly hangs over out kitchen table!! They have a step sister who is a table lamp, but she doesn't live here! Because that make them an obsession- right?

Okay off to be productive... work in the scrap room? or recover those pillows? hmmmm...

Menu Plan Monday

2011-08-07T19:46:00.000-07:00

Things have started to fall into place and I am back to my good ole menu planning.... and girls, it feels good! I just can't say enough about how life changing it is to take something that could be such a hassle and make it work! If you get a chance check out the linky party... some of these mama's post some great recipes some for $5 and lots of new crock potters!

Monday: Salmon, roasted asparagus, and rice pilaf
Tuesday: Lasagna, salad, and garlic bread
Wednesday: BBQ chicken, baked potatoes, and corn (Mikey's favorite meal)
Thursday: crock pot BBQ Shrimp and salad
Friday: Pizza and Painting
Saturday: Daddy grills... Steak
Sunday: Out to eat (hope to try some place new and local)

I have been doing a whole lot of baking these days. One of our favorite summer cakes is called Piggy Cake and you can find the recipe HERE from the Pioneer Woman. She calls it pig cake. Either way... she never fails!!

Our Week...

2011-08-06T05:14:00.000-07:00

Aside from unpacking (still) we have been keeping ourselves pretty busy around here... We went to the children's museum and had a blast!

Adelyn started her first dance class... ummm, not a blast, but she looked cute!

Swim lessons every night for Mike, because he makes it a blast....

Adelyn's mommy and me swim lessons... not a blast because she thinks she already knows how to swim!

My sweet cousin Michelle and her son Ryan joined us... that part was a blast!

Maybe Daddy and Me lessons will be a blast? Nope! She still thinks she knows how to swim!

Playing at the swim class... total blast!

Hanging out at the park... super fun, blast!

Even for Miss Independant... Addy!

Building (another pirateship) with daddy... a daddy blast!

Chowing with cousins... our very favorite blast!

Especially with our newest cousin, Reagan! Who happens to have taken over the title "Cutest Baby In The World!"