bubsies boutique - baby and kids boutique clothing in Orange County, CA

Fun in the Saturday Sun

2011-01-29T19:00:00.000-08:00

It's too sunny and too beautiful to stay indoors...

so we put our little guy to work..

he scrubbed and scrubbed...

and my car turned out better than a professional car wash...

(yes, his daddy was there to scrub too:)

Simon finished off the hot day with

a little run in our make-shift sprinkler...

(otherwise known as the garden hose)...

even daddy joined in the fun!

Gotta take advantage of the
weekend family fun!

Indulging...

2011-01-21T13:30:00.001-08:00

I decided to

indulge

on some Nutella...

YUMMMM-O is all I can say!Well....Simon saw me and decided to

partake in mommy's indulgence...

How can I say NO,

when my spoon was filled with this ooey-gooey yumminess?!

So....

we BOTH enjoyed a treat,

giggled at each other...

and took another lick!

Yummm!

This is January???

2011-01-18T07:14:00.000-08:00

YES!!!
Love it!!

Keeping the Boys Busy...

2011-01-17T16:42:00.000-08:00

The ground was covered with leaves from our big tree outside...
after an hour of raking...
no gardner is needed
thanks to Simon and his cousin, Ryan.
Thanks, Boys!

Upcycled Glass Bottle Project

2011-01-12T14:19:00.000-08:00

So sorry I haven't updated my blog lately!!

Here's an easy Up-cycling project to try...

You'll need a funky old glass bottle,

twine,

a glue gun,

and a strip of fabric.Begin by using hot glue to stick the twine

on the bottle.

Start at the base, and glue a little bit at a time,

laying the twine on the glue...

repeat all the way up to the desired height on the bottle.

Be sure to use about an inch or two of glue at time,

and not more,

because the hot glue will dry.

I went up to the neck of the bottle...

I may add more twine later up to the lip,

but for now, I wanted to experiment.

Finally, I added a double-layered strip of fabric

that was cut with pinking shears on the edges.

I tied it around the neck of hte bottle,

to add some color to the neutral twine.

Then, I placed it on the mantle next to a cool beachy picture,

that picks up the colors in the twine and fabric.
It cost pennies,
took 20 minutes,
and adds a little somethin' to a naked mantle:)
Happy Crafting!!

YUMMY Breakfast Casserole for New Year's Day!

2010-12-31T16:49:00.000-08:00

I made this for Christmas morning for

both sets of granparents and...

YUM-O is all I can say!

Breakfast Quiche

2 zuchinni sliced
1 french loaf of bread sliced in 1" pieces
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 tablespoons (or more) of basil
6 ounces of chedder/jack cheese, shredded
8 large eggs
2 cups of skim milk
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tsp Dijon mustard
3-4 large tomatoes (depends on the size)

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Precook (stirfry) zuchinni and onion for 5-7 minutes.
3. Placed sliced bread in greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
Spread zuchinni, onion, and basil evenly over the bread.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper and mustard;
pour over vegetables. Arange tomatoes evenly over on top,
covering entire area.
5. Bake for 70 minutes, or until lightly browned. This dish can be refrigerated
overnight and baked in the morning. Makes 10 servings.

The last few days of Christmas Break

2010-12-31T13:57:00.000-08:00

We're trying to squeeze in the last few days of fun

in 2010 (can you believe it's New Year already?)! Scootering in the beautiful sunshine after some heavy rains...
doing some jumping jacks on the trampoline at Open Gym
(gotta get those wiggles out)...

attempting a new gymnastics move...
I don't know if Simon liked this one...
(looks a little scared)!

And spent an afternoon fishing
for the Kids Fishing Derby...
Simon SURE learned what patience is!!!
Oh, how fishing is challenging for little children...
they expect to catch a fish-
NOW!
Not so much...

Simon walked away empty-handed...
but made a memory with Mom & Dad.
That's about it for 2010!
Happy New Year, friends!
Now go blog about some family memories of your own:)!

Sweet Friend

2010-12-30T19:25:00.000-08:00

The other day we picked up Cade

who JUST became a big brother!

Cade is Simon's little buddy...

whenever we have them out together,

people think they are twins

(must be the blondish hair & cute smile:)

As a treat to the New Big Bro,

we took him on a boat ride around the lake...

Yes, Simon IS steering!

Look out!!

Good buddies....
many memories...
lots of love for Caders.

We loved every minute that we spent with you that day.
Such precious memories for Simon
as he grows up and remembers the
little buddy days...
from fishing...
to Jingle concerts...
to playdates at the park...
to making brownies...
to Sunday School...
to Kids Club...
to rockin' out with the drums...
We love you, Cade!

We'll see you real soon,
sweet friend!

Ultra EASY Felt Flower Tutorial

2010-12-26T20:37:00.000-08:00

I have a few cute sweaters that just needed a little

"POP"!

So for the Christmas season,

I made a couple Super SIMPLE felt flowers that

you can make in about 10 minutes for about 50 cents.

First, free cut about 12-15 small circles

(about 2" in diameter).

Then cut ONE bigger circle

(about 3" in diameter).
Take your hot glue gun
and glue a small amount in the middle of
EACH small flower,
pinching it in the middle to adhere the felt together.
The circles should look like the ones shown below.

So you will have every small circle glued in the center,
and the BIG circle as is.
Next, begin to hot glue a small amount around
the edge of the larger circle,
placing each smaller (scrunched) circle down.
You will glue each scrunched circle
along the entire edge of the larger circle.
Then you will continue to glue in the center of the larger circle,
until the entire large circle is filled.
Start on the outer edges and work your way into the center... Once completed, your flower should look like this.
You may have to trim the edge of the flower
so that it is even.
Once you are done with that,
hot glue a pin (that you can buy from Michaels or a craft store).
Then glue a small piece of felt over the pin's base,
leaving the pin on top.
This will secure the felt onto the pin's base.

Then find a plain 'ol sweater and place accordingly...
you choose where you need a little spice.
These pins look great on a
sweater,
shirt,
scarf,
belt,
or even to a purse!

Have fun!!!

'Lil Jingles 2010

2010-12-26T20:04:00.000-08:00

Every year, the 'Lil Jingles perform

at our church...

these cutie-patooties

know how to sing, let me tell ya.... they melt your hearts as the Christmas Carols

are belted out at the top of their little lungs...

Here's an example of Simon singing...

although he gets a little distracted

by his buddy, Eli,

who really wanted to emphasize

"Christmas Day"....

Hope you all had a

VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

7 Years...

2010-12-22T08:19:00.000-08:00

Seven Years...

ups...

downs...

twists...

turns...

joy...

sorrow...

valleys...

mountain tops...

Through it all,

we had the Lord at every point...

He never left us,

and always sustained us.

Happy Anniversary, my sweet beloved Dave!

Thank you for walking out this life with me...

And thank you Lord,

for blessing me with my

husband and friend!

'Tis the (BUSY) Season...

2010-12-18T19:19:00.000-08:00

Well....

as most of you are experiencing,

this has been a C-R-A-Z-Y couple of weeks!

From birthday celebrations, to playdates,

to preschool parties, to volunteering,

to Christmas Extravaganzas....

everybody is in the same boat-

the BUSY boat!

But all is good...

Here's a re-cap of Family Fun...

Little Sime celebrated his 5th birthday on Wednesday.

We had a couple buddies over for some

ice cream sundaes

and some Christmas Light touring to the winners

around our beautiful city.

Started with a little prayer for my boy...

Saw some Clark Griswold Christmas Lights

(AMAZING)...

and enjoyed a sweet bithday time with
two great buddies...
Thank you for making Simon's birthday so special and memorable!

The next day,
he was blessed by his teacher and Principal...
what a treasured memory to celebrate with his first
Preschool class (ever)...

His teacher, Mrs. Summers,
has been absolutely remarkable!
Hats off to ALL Preschool Teachers
around the world!
They do SOOOOO much for our children...
and we thank you!

Simon performed in his first Christmas Play EVER...

He was SO excited to be a Wiseman,

with his cousin, Ryan!!

They both did a great job saying their first line (in public)!!

He's come a LONG way since the

days of screeching in public,

to speaking a line in a play.

Good Job, buddy!

Excited...

just minutes before the big moment!

Thank you to Grammy & Pops for coming

and supporting little Sime!

We love you!

And a few seconds to pose...

Isn't it true....

Moms barely get in any pictures with their kids!?!

They're always behind the camera, aren't they?!

And we ended our week

with 15 beautiful kids from church

at our house...

no damage done...

no spills...

no one hurt...

lots of giggles...

lots of sqealing...

lots of smiles...

LOTS of memories for these little cutie-pies!

Tomorrow is the big day...

Introducing...

The 'Lil Jingles!

They may look tired,

but this was after three practices of their Christmas songs...

Can't wait to hear them on their big day!

Gotta Love every second of this

B-U-S-Y,

CRAZY,

Season!

Super Cute, Super Easy Burp Cloth

2010-12-10T07:50:00.000-08:00

Try this cute Burp Cloth as a gift for the

newbaby in town...

First, get some soft, fuzzy fabric,

and TWO fun cotton prints to make the burp cloth. Next, cut the soft fabric in your desired size.

Mine was 6inches x 12inches.
Then, cut your TWO fabrics in 3 equal sizes
that will match your backing.

Next, sew up the 3 strips.
These strips will be in alternating colors.

They will look like this (below)...

these fabrics are the same brand

and compliment each other well.

Next, place the backing (right side facing right side)

towards the sewed up cotton fabric.

Pin along the edges,

leaving one side open.

Then sew up the three sides.

Then, turn the last end under and pin.

Then sew along the edge....

but don't stop there...

Sew the open edge up,

then keep sewing around the other three sides,

creating a nice edging for the burp cloth.

I added some regular rick-rack down the middle for some flair!

And made a matching bib to boot!

Love this set!!

The burp cloth cost pennies,

took me less than an hour,

and is a SUPER cute gift to bless the new baby in town!

Have fun!!

Creative Wrapping

2010-12-09T07:24:00.000-08:00

I am known to always make my gifts for

birthdays, showers, Christmas, and any other occassion...

But...

I never have the right packaging or wrapping on hand! Here's a fun way to spice gift wrap...

Try using some old fabric for a change of pace!

This gift was for a baby boy.

I got some vintage car fabric that was hidden in my stash,

some twine,

and a long strip from some old curtains that were in my craft bin.

And....Tah-Dah!!

Something fun to try when you're in a pinch!

Easy Onesie with Leg Ruffles Tutorial

2010-12-05T14:01:00.000-08:00

Here is an easy sewing project for

that cutie baby girl on the way...

First, find fabrics and a plain onesie.
Next, choose a design for the front.
I chose a Queen's crown that will show
the girly-girl off.
I traced my image to the back of No Sew Adhesive Bond.
I ironed it to the fabric,
cut it out,
peeled off the backing,
place it in the middle of the front of the onesie,
then ironed it on.
My final stage was to sew around the edges
to make sure it was fastened tightly to the onesie.
Then, I got the same fabric and made two strips
(each were 4 inches x 14inches).
I folded them right side to right side,
then sewed up two of the sides,
leaving one end open.
I used a chopstick to pull the right sides outward.
Then (as shown below), I sewed up the last end,
by turning ends inward,
and sewing straight across.
My finished look was two strips,
with the right side fabric facing outward.

Next, I began pleating the fabric
along the base of the onesie,
from one snap to the other snap.
The picture below shows this process.
Lastly, after both sides are pleated and pinned,
I sewed straight across.

Voila! All done!
After a little press with the iron,
the pleated ruffles add a little spice to a plain 'ol onesie.

Easy.
Simple.
Cute.
Love it!

Advent Quilt

2010-12-03T07:23:00.000-08:00

My mom handmade this beautiful Advent Christmas Quilt

for Simon.

It hangs in our diningroom on a quilt rack. Inside a special pouch,

there are 25 fabric ornaments that Simon

gets to put on the quilted Christmas tree.

This ornament marks December 1st...

and every single morning...

the first thing Simon does...

is RUN to his Advent Quilt

and puts the ornament on

as a countdown till Christmas.

THANK YOU, Grammy,

for this precious Christmas gift for lil Sime!

Home Grown...

2010-12-02T19:15:00.001-08:00

Tah-Dah!

This is our first Christmas Tree that we've had since

we had our little boy

(5 years ago)!

Our little one bedroom was way too small

to jam a tree in there the past five years,

so we always got a table-topper tree from

Trader Joes...

the one that is about 8 inches high?....

you know the ones...

Well...

This is the one we got when Simon was a baby!

This is Pops, Simon's grandpa.

He planted it in his yard...

and boy, did it grow!!

Soooo...

my manly hubby took an electric saw and cut it down last night!

Our first Christmas tree as a family!

He pruned it and...

trimmed it...
then we took it home....

and decorated it...
We love it!
It's SUPER spindly-looking,
and is missing the back half
(the tree was growing against a wall, so it's literally half of a tree-
there are no branches on the other side!)
It works just fine...

Simon said, "Mom, this doesn't look like a real Christmas tree!"

Well, I beg to differ...

It IS a real Christmas tree...

and we're proud of it!

However...

next year we'll be going to Home Depot

and buying one of theirs:)

Spontaneous Santa Visit

2010-11-30T07:10:00.000-08:00

Got a call after dinner to run over to

Julie & Jason's house for a special treat...
Christmas decorations
GALORE...
including fake snow that was falling!

A chance to take a picture with Santa...
but Simon wouldn't go by himself...
he asked his protector, Lucy, to go with him:)

And a little bit of family time that we squeezed in there.

Loved this last minute Santa encounter...

and the sweet memories with the fam & friends.

November at a glance...

2010-11-29T17:31:00.000-08:00

Oh, how I MISSED my computer!

Sorry for the delay, my fellow bloggers.

So much happened in November...

so here's a brief recap...

Thanksgiving with the cousins... Best football game EVER

cuz watching it with a friend makes anything more fun...
Daddy's birthday...
I love you so much, Dave!

Birthday dinner at Ruby's

and a quick (and chilly) ride on the merry-go-round...

simple..

sweet...

perfect night!

Lighthouse Thanksgiving...

most amazing group of Special Needs adults

and their parents...

makes you walk away

humbled and grateful...

These parents and kids are our heroes

for their attitude & strength.

Little Simon making an Indian drawing for his Thanksgiving feast...

Man...those preschool teachers make it look so easy!

Hats off to all the teachers and helpers

that made our Thanksgiving

SO special and memorable for the kids!

he ate on this homemade placemat...

(is this picture the cutest, or what?!)

Actually this is a cute picture too...

gotta love little kids praying to Jesus...

Home Group Thanksgiving...

Love you, homies!

Decorating for Christmas...

Simon is peeking in the village to see if anyone's in there...

Daddy makes decorating more fun!

Sister, Jodi, and the kids came for a visit...

YEAH!

Precious memories

with the cousins...

Love you and miss you all!

Saw Santa arrive on a firetruck...

the look on Simon's face was priceless...

He came home and said he wanted to move the garlend

off the fireplace,

so that Santa can come out of the chimney

without bumping into it.

Christmas time is here!!!

Wow!

November flew by...

LOTS to be grateful for!

Computer Issues!

2010-11-14T16:51:00.000-08:00

My computer is down....

BUMMER!

I get to use my husband's work computer once a day...

OH how I miss my friend!

All I can do for now...

is PUMP UP my friend's blog...

You HAVE to visit

Once Upon A Cupcake...

Kelly is having a First-Ever Give Away...

Go to

http://onceuponacupcake.blogspot.com/2010/11/its-time-to-make-history.html

Her CUPCAKES are delicious...

ridiculously detailed in design...

melt in your mouth...

I'd eat 10 all at once...

GOOD!

Good luck winning her Give Away!

What a Legacy...

2010-11-07T14:11:00.000-08:00

Dave's grandma passed away this week.

She was 98 years old and lived an incredible life.

I am SO thankful that I brought my camera with me

the last time we saw grandma

(only two weeks ago)...

a last memory of the way grandma was every time we saw her.

She's impacted my life in such an amazing way...

Grandma was so interested in our lives,

asked questions about our family,

remembered special things that were going on in our life,

knew birthdays,

great-grandchildren's names,

and even remembered things they were doing

and activities they were involved in.

She had a keen memory,

a BIG heart,

witty and straight-up with how she was feeling...

She was honest,

loving,

and interested in

whoever she talked with.

She invested in her family...

THAT is the most important part

of her legacy.

I never knew my grandparents.

When I married Dave,

I married into a family with three of the four grandparents alive.

Grandma Seapy is the last to meet Jesus.

Our hearts are sad...

but we are left with such a tremendous impact

and heritage that she left for Dave,

and now our son, Simon.

What a gift...

to have Simon KNOW and have a relationship

with his beautiful great-grandma.

We are all inspired by the life she lead...

touched by her hand in our lives...

and encouraged to live a life

and leave a legacy for our children...

just like she did for us.

Trick-Or-Treat

2010-11-07T14:04:00.000-08:00

Simon's hand-me-down SpiderMan costume

sure got its use this year for Halloween!

He wore it for five straight days...

even after Halloween!

He tricked-and treated...
along with about 25 other cuties!!
Thank you to the Spinellos
for making a VERY fun Halloween for all these
kiddoes!
He already is thinking about what he wants to be
next year!!

Pumpkin Adventures

2010-10-29T15:29:00.000-07:00

We had a chance to go to Pumpkin City

for a few pictures and some fun

with our friends,

Archer and Beau...Simon got to squeeze and snuggle his favorite

little baby boy, Beau...

we ran into the Carsons
as we do every year at Pumpkin City...
Simon and Lucy are VBS buddies
(and sure make a cute couple!!!)
Simon and Archer got to go on a train ride...
that almost ended up to be a
shoving match...
BOTH boys would not let go of the bell
during the ride-
there were tears and yelling...
it actually made me laugh so hard
because I couldn't believe they were going at it so much....

just to hold the bell!
"Work It Out" as we Mommies like to say;)

The night ended up with some cute pics and
three VERY tired boys!

Then, the next morning was Kids Club...

Super Heroes RULE!
Which Super Hero looks more authentic?

This bunch of kids is GROWING all the time!

Just got baby TWINS added to the bunch!

Happy Harvest Time Everyone!!

Have FUN!!

5 Minute, $5 Meal for Two

2010-10-27T19:30:00.001-07:00

I HAD to share this SPEEDY recipe with you!!!

Get a can of Enchilada Sauce,

black beans,

roasted peppers from Trader Joes,

shredded jack cheese,

and tortillas.

Next, get an 8" x 8" pyrex dish,
put PAM in it and get all your supplies ready.
Put your tortillas down first.
Layer with black beans,
one or two roasted bell pepper,
wrap up and repeat.
You can get four or five enchiladas in this sized pan.
Then, pour over enchilada sauce,
sprinkle on some cheese,
and cook on 350 degrees for 35 minutes or
until golden and bubbling on top.

It is SUPER YUMMY...
less than $5 for TWO people to eat,
and takes literally 5 minutes to prep.
TRY IT!!!

Chow for now!

First Ever Field Trip with my Boy!

2010-10-27T19:07:00.000-07:00

What a day today...

my first ever ever field trip with my big preschooler!

We headed to Tanaka Farms in Irvine

with all 12 of his classmates, plus the AM class....
which included his sweet cousin, Ryan.
we are lucky enough to have to the same teachers,
but different classes.
The great thing is...
we get to spend
Field Trip Days together!
Whoo-Hoo!!!

Only five months apart,
these boys adore each other and
his mommy and I are
soooooooo happy!
Family get togethers are like a BIG
playdate!!

Simon got to walk through Corn Mazes....

Pick his (least favorite) veggie, radishes....
but he quickly changed his mind after I cooked
the BEST dinner
with some Olive Oil and stir-fried in those home-picked veggies:)

and yummy carrots....

and of course, green beans....

finally, he got to pick his own 'lil pumpkin....

PERFECT for our Harvest decor at home!

We LOVE Preschool and ALL the adventures Mrs. Summers

brings us on!

I LOVE being a Mommy

and am honored to be able to stay at home with him

and spend these priceless memories with my sweet boy.

I am one grateful Mommy!

Simple Seasonal Tea Towel Tutorial

2010-10-24T15:03:00.000-07:00

Okay Ladies...

here's another simple gift that you can make

for pennies,

and give away as a gift.

Here we go...

First, get some fabric

and some shapes of seasonal items

that you want to put on your tea towels.

I chose simple, triangular Christmas trees

and holly with berries.

I bought a 5-pack of flour sacks,

otherwise known as tea towels...

there in the dish towel section at Target.

Wash and iron the flour sacks FIRST.

Then, trace your holiday items onto Heat N Bond.

Next, iron the Heat N Bond to the fabric.

Then peel off the white paper backing

(like this picture shows).

Next, iron the fabric

(with the sticky side facing the flour sack).

I made a triangle tree and added a small brown trunk.

For the holly,
I traced it out of a Christmas book,
and followed the same instructions as above.

After your items are ironed on,
sew along edge with your sewing machine...

like so!
Then add some jumbo rick-rack
and pin underneath the holly.
Sew that up on both ends.
Don't forget to tuck both ends under on both sides
and secure with sewing machine
to avoid fraying.

I actually sewed the rick-rack by going up and down
in the curves.

Iron afterwards,

and you are DONE!

These are really nice gifts for...

Teachers,

Hostesses of Holiday Parties,

Parents,

Grandparents,

and Friends.

If you don't feel like sewing,

I have a few left!

$6 Each

or 2 for $5

Email me if you want them

and I'll send them your way!

Happy Sewing!

EASY Personalized Name Sign

2010-10-18T06:50:00.001-07:00

This craft is super easy and under $2 to make!

First, take an old piece of wood from somewhere in your house...

this is an extra shelf that we didn't use

in our entertainment center.

Dave cut it in half and spray painted it white. Next, I cut out letters that spelled 'Lauren,'

which makes this sign nice and personal.
Then I Mod Podged the letters onto the sign.
Next, I painted a layer of Mod Podge over the top of the letters
to make a coating and adhere them to the sign.

Finally, Dave drilled holes in the top &
put wire so she could hang it.
Next, I added an accent ribbon at the top
and made a paper flower for the corner.
I hot glued the flower layers togther,
and used Gorilla Glue to stick it to the sign.

All done!
This is really a great idea for birthday gifts,
or any occassion that you need to bring a present.
If you have the supplies around the house,
get Mod Podge on sale at Michaels,
then you should be good to go!
Happy Crafting!

Nothin' Better!

2010-10-17T19:14:00.000-07:00

Had a rough few weeks this past while...

just life, that's all!

Nothin' Better than seeing

your sweet boy

playing, laughing, running, & lovin'

on his buddies.

Oh...how I needed a night just to hang with the mommies...

and watch my boy have the time of his life!

When you have a blue day...

I highly reccommend

you taking your kids out with some friends....

and sit back....

and just watch....

listen...

and savor every minute!

Hearing the laughter of children is the sweetest sound to your soul.

Trust me!

It makes you realize how blessed you are...

how thankful you should be daily...

and what a gift that children are to all of us.

Enjoy your day, my fellow Mommies!

Making Muffins with My Little Man

2010-10-15T07:55:00.000-07:00

Simon and I have a FAVORITE muffin mix that we make together!

Seriously...these are the BEST muffins ever!

Very healthy,

you can sneek in veggies and fruits,

and they are satisfying to eat & fill your tummy up!

The recipe is at the bottom.

You can exchange the carrots for zuchinni,

the apples for bananas,

or whatever you choose.

Hope you try it!

Bran Flax Muffins
1 1/2 Cups Rice Flour (or white flour)

3/4 cups Bob's Red Mill Flaxseed Meal

3/4 cup Oat Bran or Almond Meal

1 cup Brown Sugar

2 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

2 tsp. cinnamon

1 1/2 cups finely shredded carrots

2 peeled & shredded apples

1/2 raisens (optional)

1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

3/4 cup Milk

2 beaten eggs

1 tsp. Vanilla

Mix together all dry ingredients.

STIR in carrots, apples, raisens, & nuts.

COMBINE milk, eggs, and vanilla.

POUR liquid ingredients into dry ingredients.

STIR until ingredients are moistened.

Fill muffin cups 3/4 full.

Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes.

Check with a toothpick before taking out of oven.

Enjoy!

Twins...TWO for One Tutorial!

2010-10-07T10:47:00.000-07:00

Hi Crafters!

Here is a cute gift idea for some

TWINS that you know!

First, pick some fabric that could work

for both a boy and a girl.

Start with a onesie.

Iron on Heat N Bond on three different fabric colors.

Cut out in circles, going from largest to smallest.

Sew on top of them to secure.

Cut out a large circle..

I used a cereal bowl.

Take a needle and thread and make a yo-yo.

Basically, weave the needle in and out along the folded edge.

Then pull the thread.

This will tighten the yo-yo into shape.

Secure the center of the yo-yo with the

needle and thread again to keep it together.

Then, handsew it to the top of the circles.

This creates dimension and flair for the flower.

Next, I took a one-inch ribbon,

and twisted it along the right side of the onesie.

This created a stem.

I sewed along the center to secure in place.

Then I made a little leaf with the extra ribbon.

For the skirt, I took a half yard (or less) of fabric.

I sewed it right side to right side.

Then I made a waist band by

ironing one inch down on one end.

I sewed it on the closest edge near the iron fold,

which left enough room for the elastic to go through.

Don't forget to leave an inch or so open for the elastic.

I took a safety pin and attached it to the elastic.

Next, I threaded it through the waistband,

sewed the elastic together,

then sewed up the fabric waistband.

I added some cuteness to the bottom of the skirt.

The bottom was folded under and ironed to make a nice seam.

I sewed on these red balls along the very edge.

The skirt is done...

simple.

sweet.

cute.

Here's the finished look!

Okay....now for the boy outfit.
I took a onesie,
and some matching fabric from the girl's skirt.
I ironed on Heat N Bond,
then traced and cut out a long neck tie.

I peeled off the backing and ironed it to the onesie,
smack-dab in the middle.
Then sewed along the edges.

Next, I hand traced TWO sides of a vest
that matched the measurements of the onesie.

I pinned over the long neck tie.
Then sewed along the edges.

I added some handsewn buttons to finish it off.

ALL DONE!

Phew!

This took me a few hours or so to make,

but it was well worth it.

HUGE congrats to the Heinrich Twins...

we love you already sweet ones!

Happy First Birthday!

2010-10-02T08:36:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been awhile ladies!

I've been BUSY with life and haven't done many projects.

Here's a REALLY cute and easy baby girl gift

that you need to try!

First, take a plain onesie (minus the teddy bear in the corner). Get your Heat N Bond and some fun pinkish fabric

for the (birthday girl's) crown.

Trace the crown on the Heat N Bond,

iron it to the fabric, &

cut it out.

Next, do the same technique with the Number One

(because little baby girl is turning ONE)!

Place the One where you think looks cute.

I placed mine over the teddy bear (of course).

Then I placed the crown in the middle of the One,

just to make it look a little more balanced

on the onesie.

Then iron in place.

Next, you will sew in light pink thread

overtop of the One and the crown.

This washes nicely and will stay put on the onesie.

The onesie is done...

onto the Tutu.

Take some one-inch elastic.

Measure it to the baby's waist.

Then make it one inch smaller, so it won't slide down.

Sew a little square on the tips of the elastic.

This will secure it in place.

Next, take strips of tulle in the length you want to make the tutu.
Double that size because you are going to fold it in half,
and make a slip-knot to secure it on the elastic.
This pic shows what the waist band should look like
with the tulle in a slip-knot.

Finally, tie a little bow in ribbon to the elastic.
Or you can glue gun a big flower,
or whatever other embellishment you would like.

Here's the finished tutu...
cute, huh?!

I added some iron-on rhinestones to the tips of the crown

on the onesie...

some bling for the babe.

The total outfit is very inexpensive,

quick to make,

and looks cute for a little cutie's

first birthday.

Happy Birthday, Miss Alyssa!

Teddy Bear Picnic

2010-09-27T07:51:00.000-07:00

Simon had a very special day last week...

The Teddy Bear Picnic,

where ALL the mommies and daddies were invited.

I got all packed up at home,

drove to school,

and realized I forgot his Teddy Bear!

He looks a little ticked in this picture

because he was the only one in class who didn't have his bear

to receive an award, but...

I did drive all the way home

and got it for my boy...

I made it back in time for the

"Teddy Bear Hunt."

The teacher lead the kids all around campus,

searching for their Teddy Bears.

Finally...Simon found his!!

And thankfully, the teacher's aide

saw my situation and hung an award around the

bear's neck, so he would be like the rest of them...

just a little late.

We took pictures,

snuggled with the bears,

and sat down to eat our picnic...

only I forgot to bring his picnic!!!

What the heck...

It's a Teddy Bear Picnic

and I forgot the Teddy Bear AND

the picnic!

Luckily the teacher had some fruit to give Simon,

so he didn't starve.

The day ended up good.
He sang some songs about bears...

did activities that started with the letter "B"...

balance beam and squirting balloons...

and the day ended up not so bad.

He had a few tears here and there because he

was missing his bear and snack for a brief time...

but hey...he recovered quickly.

I didn't...

I felt terrible!

But ya know what...

I'm doing the best job I can!

Thankfully, Simon still loves me

and forgives his mommy in her "mommy moment."

What I've Been Working On...

2010-09-20T07:44:00.001-07:00

I am SO excited about this project I've been working on!!

We are hosting our 4th Annual Holiday Boutique at our church...

and this year...

it's gonna be GREAT!

Here's a taste of what you'll see

and hopefully BUY...

My partner in crime,

helper with boutique and MANY projects,

Kelly, from Once Upon A Cupcake. Jesilyn Designs...

gorgeous artwork & sketched glass...
Chrissi Rouse from Flipflops & Applesause...
awesome handmade coloring books for kids...

one of my faves,
31bits,
a ministry related vendor
selling handmade jewerly by women in Uganda...

Deer Lovely clothing....
ridiculously cute!

and iSanctuary,
another ministry related vendor...
hanmade jewerly by women who have
survived Human Trafficking...
proceeds benefit and help prevent this crime.

These are just a few...
COME join us on Thursday, Oct.21st at 6pm
at Saddleback Covenant Church.
Check out http://www.sccholidayboutique.blogspot.com/
for more info!
See you there!!

Handmade Fall Decor

2010-09-16T11:15:00.000-07:00

I got some awesome scrapbook paper from

my good friend, Hannah (a fellow crafter).

It was perfect for a Fall craft

to spice up my mantle.

First, I took 4 small wood plaques

and fall-themed paper.

Next, I used the sold colors to cover the front of the plaques

in alternating colors.

Then I used the floral paper to make the letters,

that spelled "fall."

The next step was to Mod Podge the back of the paper

onto the front of the wood plaques.

Then Mod Podge the letters onto the paper

in alternating colors.

Next, Mod Podge overtop of everything

and let dry for a few hours.

Finally, I got some cute fabric
and cut out basic flowers.
I hot glued the fabric flowers on top of one another
to give it dimension.
Then added a button for the center.

All done!

Sorry the pics aren't great,

but you get the idea.

Hope you like it!

Try it at home for this Fall season,

then stick it away for next year.

Enjoy!

Chit-Chat Time

2010-09-15T07:46:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite times of the day

is when Simon gets home from Preschool.

We come home,

put his backpack down,

get cleaned up,

prepare a yummy snack (for both of us),

and sit down at his little table for Chit-Chat Time. I LOVE this!

We talk about the day...

what new friend he has made,

what centers he liked best,

what his "job" of the week is,

what his favorite part about school is,

and so on and so on...

It is so special to spend time together chatting about

all the new things that are going on in his life.

He loves sharing, giggling about it, and

telling me all the details...

I LOVE seeing his face light up

as I see my little boy

growing up!
People say, "Oh, they grow up so fast."

I believe it...

that's why I don't want to miss a beat.

As long as he's willing to share,

I'll sit there for hours

and listen to my boy do his little chit-chat.

Upcyled Baby Jar Project

2010-09-09T17:13:00.000-07:00

This project was super easy AND nearly free!

First, take Mod Podge, food coloring, and empty baby food jars. Pour a small amount of Mod Podge on a paper plate

and add a few drops of food coloring.

Mix it up well...

Then paint the outside of the jars,

painting in all directions

(up/down & sideways).

Let it dry overnight and then you are done!!

It creates a stain-glass effect and it really is beautful.

Put a candle inside and it creates a nice greenish tint glow!

Tie some raffia and ribbon and you have yourself a

beauty of a gift OR

keep it for yourself.

Place a trio set indoors...

or outside on your patio table.

Seriously...

they look even cuter in person.

I think I found my new favorite craft!

Enjoy and Happy Crafting!

Preschool!!

2010-09-08T12:34:00.000-07:00

Second day of Preschool...

going good!!

Simon looks like Sid the Science Kid

(just like his daddy whose a science teacher). I've never seen him so excited to go somewhere...

you would think it was Disneyland or somethin'!
Thank goodness he likes school
(so far)!

Family FUN

2010-09-06T19:12:00.000-07:00

First slip & slide... Cousin Ryan makes family parties

SOOOOOOO fun!

Uncle Pete was in town after MONTHS of working in Illinois.

We love him SO much!

Thank you for loving your nieces and nephews so much...

You are the BEST uncle in the world!

The heat was blaring and the kids were trying to stay cool...

Simon tried to slip & slide for the first time...

it didn't quite work...

at least he got to the end somehow!

Game On!

2010-09-06T18:26:00.000-07:00

I needed a little makeover on my mantle...

and went to work today!

I had some old glass jars that were

taking up too much room

in my cabinets.

The first step I took was... took 3 glass jars (all different heights).

I took some old

mini dominoes, chess pieces, and scrabble pieces...

Then I put them into the jars...

arranged them on the mantle with my existing props...

and voila!
I love the organic colors, natural feel, and "game feeling"
of my new mantle.

You would be surprised what fun little knick-knacks
you find around the house...
it'll spice up your mantle, coffee table, or diningroom...
Pull out those 'ol game pieces and
start decorating!!

My Little Man...

2010-09-02T20:14:00.000-07:00

started Preschool today for the very first time!! His beautiful, sweet teacher greeted him with a hug...
Simon posed for some pictures for Mommy
in front of his new classroom...

He shows off his backpack...

and puts it in his cubbie...

and we left him while he was playing in this really cool kitchen...

"Bye Simon...aren't ya gonna cry?"

NOPE!

He had a GREAT day for his first day of school...

As we were driving home,

he was sound asleep!

I love it!

Can't wait for another day!

Recycled Matte Picture Frame

2010-09-01T19:20:00.000-07:00

This is too easy!

I had a cool picture of an old bicycle

that was used as a planter outside.

It is in front of one of my favorite spots...

The Tea House on Los Rios Street.

I took this pic on my birthday because we went there to celebrate.

I had an old frame,

an old yellowish matte,

and this picture that I needed to frame.

I measured the scrapbook paper of my choice

(sorry if it's a little wild...

but that's how I roll)...

then I cut the paper to fit the matte,

glued it,

put the picture inside and...

voila!

It captures a special memory,

was only 25 cents,

and fills a blank wall in my bedroom...

it's perfect!

Tulle Embellished Shirt

2010-08-31T07:24:00.000-07:00

I love Target V-Necks!

I could have one in every color they sell!

But I like to add a 'lil somethin'

on them so I can wear it out on a date

and feel like I'm spruced up a bit.

Today, I took some tulle in light pink and brown.

I cute large and small circle (about 30 in all).

Then, I hand sewed them in the center of the tulle

to the V-Neck.

I layered them so I could see dimension and

have it resemble a flower.

Next, I took an old bead bracelet,

and hand sewed the beads in the middle of the flower,

and added some below the flower for some extra bling.

Then I was done!

It took about 30 minutes

and was super cheap.

The key is taking old T-shirts and adding some bling

so you don't have to buy a new one...

that's what upcycling is!

I like it a LOT!

Happy Crafting, Ladies!

Weekend Fun

2010-08-30T08:09:00.001-07:00

This weekend we had a Plant Sale and

gave away FREE Coffee to our Neighbors.

It was another attempt to draw the neighbors out

so we could meet some new peeps...

It worked!

We met 8 new neighbors,

gave them some yummy coffee,

chatted a bit,

and sold some plants...

about $50 worth to be exact!

There are only a few houses left that we haven't met yet...

out of 23 houses on our street!

Next Stop??

Harvest Potluck!

Then, we Dog-Sat my parents pug, Toby,
at our house. Simon LOVES sweet Toby!

He was quite the care-taker!

Stretchin' Out the Last Few Days...

2010-08-29T07:18:00.000-07:00

of SUMMER!!!Wish we could've had more of these...
bonfires with the krazy kiddoes!

Spendin' some summer days...

with fun friends...

Oh Summer...

We will MISS YOU!

But we won't be blue...

A NEW Season is just ahead...

Not one tear we will shed...

We're of to Preschool..

for the very first time!

Mommy will miss her sweet little Sime...

We're excited for new things to come...

So no need to be glum...

We'll see you next year, Summer...

Even though it's a Big Bummer:)

He Finally Did It!

2010-08-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

Simon passed his swim test!!!

This has been a summer of

overcoming fears and growing up...

We are so proud of our little guy!

Just like us...

2010-08-25T18:38:00.000-07:00

This is one of Simon's greatest friends...

her name is Diane...

she has been homeless for over 5 years...

She has Muscular Dystrophy...

She is unable to work because she has severe disabilities...

She is still hopefull...

Still happy...

Still loving...

But still has no home to call her own. We have been going to Isaiah's House for two years now.

This is not to boast about our "service" or "doing good"...

I am writing because I want to share our experience...

that has helped shaped our life for the past two years.

We just go and play games,

and bring coffee with flavored creamer...

no big whoop for you...

but these ladies???

Well, they just LOVE the coffee!

This woman's name is Becky.

She is unable to work as well.

She has physical disabilities that disable her from being in the workforce.

She has been disowned by her family.

They have rejected her...

and she has no one else to take her in.

This is CJ (on the left).

She is Diane's best friend.

She helps care for Diane...

She is a TRUE friend if I've ever heard of one.

She is faithful, devoted, caring, and loving.

This is Lorrie (on the left) with an Isaiah's House worker.

She lost her husband years ago...

She had three children...

They made it last as long as they could...

Then they could not make it anymore.

She is homeless now.

She works in "The Store" to help "pay" for her housing...

which is a hardwood floor

and a sleeping bag.

These women inspire me.

They encourage me.

They are my friends.

They are real people with real situations that got them to this place.

I realized that when you ask someone how they are doing...

it could lead you to

a "divine appointment."

I've learned that by simply asking how these women are doing...

you will walk away a changed person...

because they alter your perspective of

"what a homeless person is."

They are regular people...

That had hardships that they couldn't get out of...

and they are just like us.

They need love.

They need people.

They need people to care.

My challenge to you is this:

Next time you see someone down and out...

Start a conversation...

THEY might just need an ear to listen to them..

and YOU might be it!

The Summer of the LAKE

2010-08-25T18:25:00.000-07:00

We have our very own paradise here...

called The Lake!!Simon has tackeled the kickboard...
He has flirted with beach babes....

he has hugged pals underwater....

and made summer memories with great friends...

all of this is going on,

while sweet baby Beau sleeps soundly

on the beach

next to this craziness out in the water....

hey...whatever works, right?!

This place is too close to home,

too relaxing for Mama,

too fun for kiddoes,

a little hassle to pack up....

but SO worth it!

We love the LAKE!!!

Craft Day

2010-08-22T19:31:00.000-07:00

I highly recommend getting a few girls to come over,

bringing their crafts from home,

providing some snacks to munch on,

and enjoying an hour or two of

CRAFTING!

You can make a handmade hair clip made of fabric and buttons...

only a 20 minute project,

and practically pennies to make...

a Mobile made of buttons & pearls

to hang over your babies crib

(love this one)!

or, single-handedly make a paper Mobile,

crafting in one hand and holding new baby in the other...

and it actually came out perfect!

The trick is to time the craftiness in between
burps,
feedings,
cries,
diaper changes,
and...

when all else fails,
put in a good 'ol Baby Einstein DVD!
It keeps them quiet and happy...
and you can get a little work done!

The Tree

2010-08-20T14:50:00.000-07:00

Simon and I sat down for a little art project.

I asked him what he wanted to paint.

He said, "our tree,"

and pointed to our 'perfect tree'

(as we like to call it)....seriously, this tree is ridiculous!

It is the best lookin' tree I've ever seen...

strong, thick trunk,

big bushy top,

full, lush green leaves,

firm branches, &

deep roots.

When we first moved in this home in January,

it was completely empty...

not one single leaf was on the branches.

Now...it is the fullest tree I've ever seen.

Reminds me of my favorite verse:

" I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him,

he will bear much fruit;

apart from me

you can do nothing."

- John 15:5

Well...

I think I want to be like this tree...

firmly rooted,

strong in stature,

and able to bear much fruit in my life.

Every time I look in my backyard,

I am reminded of who I need to stay connected with!

Drawer Turned Word Sign Part 2

2010-08-20T09:37:00.000-07:00

I've made a tutorial like this before,

but I thought I would share the embellishments I added

to this gift I'm giving to sweet Jadyn.

First. take an old drawer front,

and take off the knobs.

Next, drill holes in the top portion of the sign for the wire to go through.Like this pic.
Next, take your favorite pieces of scrapbook paper
and tear off the edges,
making it look old and worn.
Paint Mod Podge on the back of the paper to
adhere it to the sign.

Cut out some letters that will "pop" out from the background paper.
I spelled Jadyn's name for this sign.

After you Mod Podge the letters on the background, let it dry for a few minutes.

Then, Paint Mod Podge all over the front of the sign,

covering all the letters.

This will give it a coating and protect the letters.

Next, I traced 5 flower shapes and wrinkled them a little bit

with my hands.

This made the flowers a little more 3-dimensional looking.

Then I cut out a bird, with a tiny wing and tail

in accent colors.

Finally, I hot glued a matching button for the eye.

By the way, I hot glued the flower together,

then hot glued it and the birdie to the sign.

All done!

I think she'll like it,
don't you?

Happy Crafting, girls!

Jana Alayra Concert!

2010-08-19T15:08:00.000-07:00

There is the coolest Children's Worship singer,

Jana Alayra,

who Simon absolutely LOVES!

We were second in line

(if that tells you anything:)We were blessed to go to on of her concerts last night...

Simon (as you can see) was completely awestruck
by how great she was...

Jana even pulled all the daddy's on stage for on of her fun songs...

There she is...

Mrs. Jana Alarya herself!

Does Simon look nervous,

or what??

A VERY special and treasured memory

for sweet Simon...

and his cutie-patootie pals!

Handmade Birdhouse

2010-08-19T14:29:00.000-07:00

I'm gonna brag about my man

for a second here...

He's awesome!!!

He made us a sweet birdhouse

to be a home for all the little birdies

that fly around.

He took two old fence boards

that my parents had in their backyard.He sawed them in pieces that were equal...
4 side panels,
1 roof panels,
1 front panel,
1 back panel,
and 1 bottom panel.

Next, he began using his trusty
hammer and nails to put it all together.

Lastly, he used wire to hang it on the tree out front.
He drilled holes in the top and fed the wire through.

It's simple,

but it does the trick.

I love it!

Thanks, Dave!

What a special treasure made by my loving hubby!

This is the Reason Why...

2010-08-15T15:02:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in a week!

VBS...

otherwise known as Vacation Bible School.

We have spent the last week

setting up, planning, decorating, preparing,

sweating, fixing, making,

and finally tearing down and cleaning up

our sanctuary into a High Seas Adventure! Dave and I both worked VBS

and LOVED every second of it...

so did Simon!

He fell in love with his Group Leaders...

Got to hang with his buddies for a week straight...

sang in a performance

(he wasn't as scared as he looks in this picture)...

Got to see one of our church members

represent our country

as someone who has fought in the trenches for freedom...

Had a chance to give to others in need

(the notebooks are going to the Marines who will give them to

the Afghan children when they go to their villages)...

Got to see a real ship being transformed on our stage...

The ship went from this...

to this by the end of the week!

What an amazing Team effort this was

to put this wonderful event together.

It was an unbelievable stage

that was filled with 92 kids that had a chance

to learn more about Jesus!

That was the best part of the week!

Ultra Simple Lampshade Upcycle

2010-08-10T14:55:00.000-07:00

This is ridiculously EASY!

My plain Jane lampshade just wasn't lookin' cute,

so I took some twine, rick-rack, and a glue gun

and went to town. First I hot glued the twine in the divets

if the lampshade.

It added some nice depth that it desperately needed.

Then I took some jumbo rick-rack in

a mossy green and hot glued it to the wide base of the shade.

The rick-rack didn't really match the lamp base,

but I didn't care!

Ya gotta work with what ya got!

All done!

I think it looks great

and gave the lamp a little boost!

Hope you can try this one at home!

Recycled Drawer Turned Word Sign!

2010-08-03T16:15:00.000-07:00

Remember that dresser that Dave made into a bookshelf?

Well, he saved the front of the drawers for me to make signs out of.

This is step 1:

find an old dresser, take the front part of the drawers off and

recycle into a craft! Next step:

Rip your favorite scrapbook paper into two pieces

and Mod Podge on the front of the drawers.

Next, I cut out letters in darker colors and

pasted it to a lighter shade of paper.

This helped it stand out.

Then, I Mod Podged the letters to the sign.

Then, I Mod Podged the entire front of the sign

to make a coating.

I have Matte Mod Podge,

so it is a flat finish,

but still looks smooth and secure.

All done!

I hung the sign in our walkway
that leads to our front door.
It desperately needed a little somethin'
to show our guests
that they are always

WELCOME!

Meet the Neighbors...

2010-08-01T19:23:00.000-07:00

We decided to do something a little out of our comfort zone...

We held a Coffee & Dessert Night in our Driveway

so that we could finally meet our neighbors.

We met a few already in the past six months...

but we had MANY more to introduce ourselves to...

This is Dave and Simon looking a little unsure about

what was in store for us that evening....

Was it going to only two that showed up???

Was it going to to be 5???

With this display of goodies and yummies,
we were in hopes for a few more!

An empty plate of Lemon Cake and Monkey Bread
should tell you that it went GREAT!

A whopping 25 neighbors showed up!
The BEST part of the evening was not only did WE get to meet some new friends,
but neighbors who had lived there for 7-8 years
were meeting other neighbors who had been there for 13 years!

The evening was beyond what we had hoped for...
being out of our comfort zone,
ended up to be EXACTLY what we needed...
and apparently what our neighborhood needed!

I reccommend this to anyone who wants to meet new neighbors...
SERVE them food....
and they will come!

Once Upon A Cupcake....

2010-08-01T19:15:00.000-07:00

I went to a FABULOUS Cupcake extravaganza today!!

My dear friend, Kelly, owns a thriving business called,

"Once Upon A Cupcake."

She single-handedly creates the most

detailed, unique, and delicious cupcakes that you could ever taste!
This is her featured cupcake that she hand-crafted
for Camp Cupcake OC,
that raised funds for Human Trafficing.
The amazing detail and art should no doubt
win her an award...
but if not,
she certainly wins the MOST Creative, Phenomenal
Cupcake Maker that I know...
but most of all,
a Mommy of two beautiful boys,
who are a treasure and more precious than anything to her.
You go, girl!
We're rootin' for you!

Simple Craft to Do with Your Kids

2010-07-31T17:28:00.000-07:00

Simon and I went to Michaels

and picked up a craft that HE liked (this time)...

He chose to decorate the letter "S" to put in his room somewhere.

Here's a simple way to decorate one of those box letters

that you can buy for less than $1.

First, get some strips of your favorite fabric,

along with small squares that accent well with the main color scheme.

Grab your Mod Podge and...begin by Mod Podging the strip of fabric around the letter.
Then have your little one place the squares of fabric
on top in various places.
They can be adhered by the Mod Podge as well.
This creates a patchwork effect.

Once the pieces are in place,
paint a layer of Mod Podge overtop of everything.

Voila! It has a nice finished coat to display somewhere

in your child's room.

The best part is that is is cheap,

and can be done between you and your kids!

Great way to spend a summer afteroon!

The First Day of Love...

2010-07-29T12:14:00.000-07:00

Eight years ago today,

I met my husband, Dave.

We look so young here!

I found a poem I wrote him in an old scrapbook...
here's a little portion of it...

"...I prayed for years for my future husband to come.
Little did I know that I had to grow some.
I had to seek God before anything on earth,
then He'd place a man in life- beyond immeasurable worth.
With all of my heart, I love my husband-to-be.
He's faithful, loving, and full of integrity.

You see, God's plan is perfectly made,
For each one of us- the love will never fade.
If we keep our eyes focused on the One who made us all,
We'll never lose hope, and our faith will not fall."

- Happy Anniversary, My Beloved!
I am beyond blessed to walk through life with you!

Dude Time

2010-07-28T14:55:00.000-07:00

Dave took Simon to a campground last night

with some other daddies...

Simon was in heaven!

They played in the tent...

he got to play drums (of course) on a tree trunk...

helped make a fire...

and made some precious memories with Dad.

These are the times

that memories are are made of!

Good 'ol fashion FUN

2010-07-25T18:56:00.000-07:00

I was reminded yesterday

that kids now a days

are so busy with their Game Boys, DS, Wii's, and so forth

that they don't just play outside and

have some good 'ol fashion fun!

Now those are super fun toys to have in your toy collection...

but when I see our niece and nephew

climb a tree for hours...

it makes me think that this kind of fun is JUST as good
than the other, newer stuff.
It's all a balancing act with our kids...
gotta keep them entertained...
gotta keep them interested...
and sometimes you gotta keep them playing with the stuff
in your own backyard!
It's FREE and it's FUN
and it keeps them BUSY!

Learning to Float...

2010-07-25T17:40:00.000-07:00

Simon is learning to float on his back in the water...Good Job, buddy!

Thanks for helping daddy!

How To Fill A Blank Wall

2010-07-25T17:26:00.001-07:00

I had one blank hallway wall that was buggin' me!

It was too plain Jane and I needed some spice.

Then I found this cool garage sale frame...plus these oak frames that my mom-in-law gave me.
I got some white spray paint.

Dave and I went to town with it...

Got Simon involved in the sanding..

(no...his Bob the Builder sander didn't work, but he thought it did).

We actually sanded all of the frames after they dried

with a small electric sander.

Then hung them up in a simple formation.

They are purposely off center from one another.

**That's a hint to you

if you are worried that it won't measure exactly perfectly...

just arrange things
a little off-centered and you never have to worry about that.

It's a fun way to spice up that blank wall that you've been staring at...

white on white actually looks kinda cool...

paint it black, red, or any color in between...
anything works!

Go to it!

Daddy Date

2010-07-20T08:10:00.000-07:00

I had a lunch date with a friend yesterday,

and Dave took Simon on a Daddy Date....

so sweet!

They biked...They stopped to look at the geese and ducks...
They rode the the scooter...
(and stopped to smile for pictures every 5 minutes)...

and ended with a Starbucks Iced Water...

Easy and Cheap Date...I know!

We love Daddy Dates!

Simon's Drum Version of a Horse

2010-07-19T07:44:00.000-07:00

Simon's come a LONG way since his very first drum!

How to Stay Cool in this HEAT!

2010-07-15T20:13:00.000-07:00

1. Go to the Lake with a buddy.2. Play with ice packs in the sprinklers.
3. Have Night Time playdates in your jammies
(NO shirts, of course).

4. When all else fails...

Put the AC on!!!

"I'm Bored, Mom!"

2010-07-13T08:37:00.000-07:00

Here's a FUN craft to make your child

(and you)!!

I got it from a great blog called, Somewhat Simple.

First, take an old Oatmeal container, Mod Podge,

and your favorite scrapbook paper.Mod Podge two different patterns to the container.

If it doesn't fit (like this one),

hot glue a ribbon over it.

Mod Podge OVER and under the paper.

This will adhere it to the container,

and give it a Matte finish

(which I chose instead of glossy).

Cut a circle that fits the top of the oatmeal container.

Hot glue it to the lid.

Hot glue a ribbon around the edge.

I added a button to hide the seam.

Print out, "I'm bored, Mom"
and glue it to the top.
Print out 40-50 different ideas that kids can do
when they are bored!
Some are...
Have a friend come over,
play with bubbles,
run through the spinklers.
Cut them up and put them inside.

All done!

Isn't it cute?!

I know it may be a lot of work to actually do this...

but I bet it would be fun for both child AND Mommy!

Hopefully it will give you a tiny break!

20 Minute Table Runner Tutorial (2nd Edition)

2010-07-07T14:46:00.000-07:00

Reminder...

If you would like to

purchase a bowtie or Mr.Man onesie

in the next few weeks...

details of this offer are HERE.

Please check it out

my little proposal!

***

Okay, now for the tutorial:

First you get a simple rectangle of your

favorite fabric and rick-rack.

My fabric is from my mom's old stash...

probably from the 70's!

But it's super cute! Next, you sew three sides together

(right side to right side),

leaving one side open.

Then, pull the right side out

(so you can see the print facing outward).

Pin the last side together

and sew it up.

Follow that up with a seam

around ALL 4 sides.

This will create a good edging for the table runner.

Next, iron all sides down. Then, sew on the rick-rack in whatever style you want.
I sewed it length-wise,
so more rick-rack is visible.

That's it...you are done!

It is just a little spice to put on your
coffee table, side table, or even diningroom table.
I placed snacks and goodies on it for our guests the other night...
it lightens up the room
and brings a freshness to plain 'ol wood colored tables.
Good luck!

4th of July Weekend with the Fam

2010-07-06T15:05:00.000-07:00

If you are looking up the favor I asked my bubsies viewers...

then look down ONE post...

THANKS!

***

Just a quick update on the BEST 4th of July yet,

for little Simon...

FUN with ALL the cousins...

yeah for glow sticks! Saw his first fireworks show,

considering he fell asleep the last few years:)
Went to the Del Mar Fair on the LAST day...
got to ride on MY first Double-Decker Bus...
and saved $10 on parking (yahoo)!!

spent some quality time with the grandparents
and Chan, their International student
staying for a few weeks.

snuggled up with the farm animals...
gotta love those agressive goats!

and made some precious memories
with our sweet boy.

A Little Favor...

2010-07-06T14:45:00.000-07:00

Remember this cute little bubsies number

that was featured in Canadian Family Magazine????

Well...I have a question for you bubsies viewers...

before I ask, let me explain...

I have NOT been promoting any sales lately

because I have been BUSY with my little Man,

but I am hoping to get a few bites in the next three weeks...

***

We are signing up Simon for Vaction Bible School

and I would like to sell at least 5 onesies to get him in AND...

I would like to sell another 5 onesies

and SPONSOR a child who is in financial need

to go to Vacation Bible School....

SOOOOO....

If anyone would like a BowTie onesie ora Mr. Man Long Tie onesie...
please email me at bubsiesboutique@yahoo.com.
Onesies are $10 each
OR $18 for 2 (one of each- bowtie and long tie)...
Shipping is $4.

Thank you so much for your support...
and I will keep you posted!

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-04T14:02:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Trader Joes!!!

We had a traditional July 4th BBQ with some friends,

and it was the easiest and yummiest menu...

ALL from Trader Joes!

Good 'ol corn, watermelon, chips, salsa,

hot dogs, and baked beans...

wrapping it up with a frozen chocolate covered banana!

Cheap, easy, and delicious!

Enjoy the holiday everyone and...

take time to be THANKFUL that we are in

a country that has FREEDOM,

unlike so many other countries in the world!

We are a blessed Nation...

don't forget it!

Blessings to all of you and yours!!

Cute,Easy Headband Project

2010-07-04T07:57:00.000-07:00

This little headband is so easy, and super cute!

Here's how you make it...

First, trace any shape of flower on your

TWO favorite fabrics, plus one each on burlap.

Make 4 big ones,

and 4 small ones,

plus 2 burlap flowers.

The more fabric, the fluffier it will be.Next, take this plain, black headband...

and cover it with ribbon of your choice.
Hot glue the tips of the headband,
then use hot glue throughout your wrapping process...
just to keep it secure.

Assemble your flower with hot glue
and using alternating fabrics,
starting with large on the bottom,
and ending with small on top.
Put the burlap flower somewhere in the middle.
The key in assembling the fabric flower is to
put hot glue between each layer,
then TWISTING the flower as you press.
This will give the flower some dimesion.
Find a really cute big button and hot glue
it in the middle.

After that, fluff the layers for a few minutes,
which will give it more dimension as well.

Hot glue a small piece of burlap on the back of the flower,

leaving an open space to...

slide the headband into.

All done!

You can make several flowers

and interchange them according to your outfit!

Have fun!!

The Girls...

2010-07-02T07:27:00.000-07:00

We Miss You Already,

Girls!!Wishing you the VERY best that God has to offer you

in your new home and community!

You will never be far from our hearts!!!

(PS...Chloe...you play "hard-to-get pretty well:)

Love you, Girls

(and Hamid)!

The Boys

2010-07-02T07:18:00.000-07:00

Simon is 4 and a half years old...

and this is certainly the summer

of growing up!

From riding his bike...

to swimming lessons...

to hangin' with The Boys (his cousins)... This is the first time where we go places,

like the Lake, and I don't see him for four hours

because he is playing and having so much fun!

Praise the Lord for independence (finally)!!!

Love it!

Boy...they really do grow up fast!

Savor every minute, Mommies!

First Swim Lesson

2010-07-02T07:12:00.000-07:00

Simon had his very first swim lessons...

EVER!

He has NEVER liked going under the water,

so I knew we had to conquer that this summer...

or else!

For his first time...he did awesome!
The swim teachers sure don't mess around!
They jump the kids right into it...
and don't give into fears...

it's working!!!
Little Simon and I went to the pool after his lesson,
and he actually WANTED to go under
for the first time ever!
We love swim lessons!!
Stay tuned for more progress....

A Dining Treasure Project

2010-06-27T14:29:00.000-07:00

I have seen this projects on several other craft sites,

so I thought I would share it with my viewers.

I can't take credit for this cute craft,

but I can show you how to do it!

First, get a really cool frame from a thrift store...

mine was $1 at a garage sale!

Fit burlap fabric so that it fits on the inside. Dig for your grandmother's old treasured silverware.

This is the most beautiful set that HAD to be displayed

from Dave's grandma who is 98 and still with it!

Finally, hot glue the silverware in the style

that you want it displayed.

Voila! Super simple...
and VERY special!

This will be hung in our dinigroom along with

grandma's tea cups and other cherished treasures.

I love it!

Recycled Old Dresser turned Book Shelf!

2010-06-23T08:24:00.000-07:00

See this cute little nook in Simon's room...

the Book Nook?...Well... DAVE took this old dresser...
and turned it into THIS!

My amazing hubby got the "crafty" bug and did this

ALL on his own

(even some of the blog pics)!

First, he took an old dresser

and sawed off one of the beams that made the drawer.

This created TWO bookshelves, instead of three small ones.

Next, he took the bottom of the drawers and cut them up into pieces...

and made them into shelves with a secure bottom.

Then he Mod Podged old maps on the two bottom shelves...

this was totally HIS idea!

It matches Simon's room because one whole wall

is covered in maps!

He painted Mod Podge overtop of the maps to make a sealer on them.

This will help the books not rip the maps as they

are put on and off the shelves.

One of the previous steps was that Dave Spray Painted

the shelves to match Simon's room colors

in a dark red.

SO cute with maps!

All done!

The two top drawrs were left in for Simon to use

with little trinkets and what-nots...

you know how 4 year-olds collect things:)

Here's Daddy and Simon with the finished product.

I am SO proud of the way it turned out!

GREAT job, Dave!!!

It was a fairly simple project

(about 2 hours max)...

and super cheap because this dresser was free!

Try this at home!!

First Progressive Dinner...but not the last!

2010-06-22T19:42:00.000-07:00

I had the privelege of being a part of a progressive dinner

with 6 other couples.

There were 3 houses,

all representing a group of different countries,

where our dear friends will be traveling to for 4 months...

yes, 4 months!

The first stop was our stop...

the Middle eastern countries.

Falafel sandwiches,

variety of hummus,

Israeli olives,

and a cucumber salad w/mint.

Here are the beautiful hostess for the evening!

We heard authentic Chinese...
(good job, Jen)!
Her hubby is behind trying to interpret;)

We heard some rules that are followed in
Africa, China, and Indonesia...
boy, it sure makes you thankful for the freedom
and blessing we have here!

We heard a Russian prayer...
that's my partner in a leopard Snuggie!

Saw a little Tango from a cute couple who took it

seriously...

his face shows the intesity of the dance!

A gorgeous display of the desserts...

that was ridiculously delicious

(and added some lb's to my behind)!

It was worth it!

ALL for this AMAZING couple!

You deserved every second of this precious evening!

Cheers to the Nortons...

You inspire,

You encourage,

You bless,

You are a gift to all of us!

Not one day will go by

without a prayer for your incredible journey abroad!

Don't Say Your Not Crafty!

2010-06-22T19:29:00.000-07:00

This is my sweet friend, Rachael.

She says she's not crafty... I beg to differ!
Loved our crafty time, friend!
You did
FABULOUS!

First Concert EVER....

2010-06-13T18:58:00.000-07:00

We bought our tickets two months ago,

and Simon has been counting the days!

The OC Supertones were playing at FishFest 2010...

a Reunion for this awesome Christian Ska Band.

Believe it or not,

Simon actually loves the HARD stuff...

rock, ska, and anything that twangs with the guitar and

beats hard with the drum...

SOOO NOT like his mommy!
Dave and Simon were off and running to the gates
of the big concert...My VERY FIRST concert too...
and I am SO thankful to have gone with my two boys!!

We were honored and blessed to hear Jeremy Camp..

meet up with some friends...

like little Max who is ridiculously adorable

dancin' and hangin' out with Dean-O and the Dynamoes!

Daddy dancing with Simon

(and his orange earplugs!)

Finally....

the long awaited...

OC Supertones!!

If you haven't heard their music...

go listen NOW!!

Thank you to our buddy, Tony and the whole crew for

an amazing concert...

and bringing glory to GOD!

"There's No life away from Him.

There's NO joy away from Him.

There's NO peace away from Him.

There's NO life away from Him."

-The OC Supertones

That's right!

There IS NO peace, joy, or LIFE away from Jesus!

Word Art Tutorial (number 4)

2010-06-13T13:51:00.000-07:00

I'm tellin' you...

this Word Art craft is SO

easy, fun and inexpensive to give as a gift...

and special, I might add!

Here we go...

First get an old piece of wood from your yard or fence.

Next, drill two holes in it,

then put wire through it to hang at the length of your choice. Then, trace the letters you want displayed on scrapbook paper.
Cut out and arrange on the wood to see what it looks like.
I traced my letters backwards on the blank side of the paper
because I chose dark colors that is hard to see lines on.Next step is to rip edges of paper on all four sides to fit your sign.
Leave a little wood showing on the top and bottom.
I used two different pieces of scrapbook paper that blended well together.
I overlapped them to fit the wood and word that I chose.
After that, Mod Podge under the paper to adhere it.
You may have to use a book overtop of it to make sure it stays down
without bubbles.

Then, Mod Podge under the letters to adhere them.

Brush Mod Podge overtop of the letters as the last step.

This will give the sign a coating and makes sure all the

letters are securely on the wood sign.

Finally tie a bow with corresponding colors on the wire

to add a little flair.

All done!

Happy Birthday, Erica!

You are a BIG BLESSING in our lives!!

No I don't have Twins...

2010-06-11T07:31:00.000-07:00

just buddies who are 6 weeks apart!

I was asked that about a dozen times yesterday at Pretend City:)

These boys had a BALL...

first they took a bath to get ready for their day...then they put out some fires and rescued some cats in trees...
then ate a yummy power meal...

had some injuries on the way,

but that didn't stop them!...

did some cleaning up...

took a little nap...

took a drive with Simon's older cousin in a cool convertable...

and slowed down to pose for a big pic (barely)...

then they were off and running again!

What a day!

2010-06-08T20:07:00.001-07:00

What a whirlwind day today!

We have our niece and nephew in town from Arizona

and spent some good quality time together today,

including...

BOTH of the kids lost a tooth!played a little "flarp"...

check out their faces!

Big bro is 'flarpping' and

'lil' sister looks grossed out...

typical!

painted some finger and toe nails...
crimped our hair...

made some brownies...

licked the spoon...

have chocolate mouth to prove it!

And made some memories for ALL of us!

At the end of today,

we are BLESSED...

and pooped!

Summer Cut...

2010-06-06T19:49:00.001-07:00

BEFORE DURING...

AFTER!

Much better!!!

Leg Ruffle Onesie Tutorial

2010-06-06T19:20:00.000-07:00

First, get a plain onesie and two strips of 5"x20" of your favorite fabric.
Next, sew (right side to right side)
both strips of fabric,
leaving one opening to flip over... like so.
Use a chop stick to get the right sides showing outward.

Then, begin to pin and pleat the fabric,

like an accordian style.

The best part of this method is that the pleats are clean,

the edges are good,

and the pleating looks more professional than a raw edge.

After pinning,

begin to sew along the leg/thigh portion of the onesie.

Use white thread on the bobbin,

so that the thread is not seen one the onesie.

Make a Yo-Yo...

trace a circle (of a bowl or coffee cup).

Take a piece of thread and needle...

and stitch through the entire edge of the circle...

then pull tight.

This will create a Yo-Yo...

the last step is to bind the center of the yo-yo together

by stitching through the center and tying a knot.

Add a button that matches...

and stitch to onesie!

Tah-dah!

All done!

This simple,

sweet,

and makes a plain 'ol onesie look

ADORABLE!

Custom Bulletin Board

2010-06-01T15:21:00.000-07:00

My son needed a place to show his artwork,

so I wanted to make something that matched his room,

and was a little different than the plain 'ol bulletin board.

First, I sanded a regular sized bulletin board

that you can get from Target (the one with the frame). Then, I took two pieces of scrapbook paper

and stapled them the center of the board.

The colors I chose went with his room.

Next, I hot glued twine on the edge of both sides of the paper.

I did this so that I could clip more artwork,

if it got to cluttered with tacks.

So I have twine at the top and bottom of the paper.

Then I used a red ink pad and scraped the edge
of several clothespins to give them a worn look.
I also just wanted to add some color to them, so it worked perfect!

Then, I hot glued them to the twine,
as well as the bottom of the board.
This will give the board a lot more available space
to display pictures and artwork!
Next, I took an old Scrabble set
and glued his name and some buttons on it.
I tried to give the letters a distressed look by scraping them
on a black ink pad.
Next, I added my pictures...
but not too many because I wanted you to see how cute it was first!

It can hold a LOT of work...

with tacks, clothespins, and whatever else you want.

Very cheap,

easy to do,

and Simon LOVES it!!!

Job well done!

20 Minute Table Runner Tutorial

2010-05-31T15:27:00.000-07:00

I needed to spice up an old hope chest

in my livingroom that we use as a coffee table...

this is a good one!

First, get some old fabric and cut to the size you want.

My fabric ended up as a long rectangle.

I folded the rectangle fabric in half (length-wise).

Make it right side to right side.

Then sew up 2 of the 3 sides,

leaving one opening.

After that, turn inside out with the right sides now facing you.

Then, tuck a little bit of the sides inward on the open end...

and pin across.
Then sew up that last side.
This will leave you with all the sides sewn up
and a plain table runner.

Next, get some jumbo rick-rack,
tuck under one end and pin across the width
on both sides.

Then sew it up along the curved edges to keep it from curling up.

All done!

You can put beverages, snacks, or just leave it as is...

super cute...

and super fast!

Have a great day!!

Lessons from a 4-year-old...

2010-05-28T14:46:00.000-07:00

Why do we

bring Simon to the homeless shelter?

Based on these pictures,

you can see why we do...

The ladies at Isaiah's House LOVE him!

What kid wouldn't love moms and grandmas

blowing bubbles...playing cards...
and spending time with him?
We love seeing Simon SMILE when
he is with these wonderful ladies.

But do you know what we love even more?
Is that Simon can bring a SMILE to their faces...

He has NO idea what the real life of a homeless person is like...
he doesn't judge them...
he doesn't ignore...
he doesn't walk past...
He sits,
he plays,
he hugs,
he giggles,
he acts silly,
and makes these ladies feel treasured.
That's what I love about children...
they are innocent and unknowing of a lot that goes on in the world...
but they sure know how to show LOVE, don't they?
We can learn a lot from them...
Can't we?

Super Simple Recycled Shirt Tutorial

2010-05-26T13:51:00.000-07:00

One of my faves so far!

Here we go...

First get a plain V-Neck T-Shirt at Target for $6.

Cut up an old shirt in small and medium circles

in the same color (or not).

All I had was black,

so I made it work!

Next, pinch circles together

with one side longer then the other.

Start at the shoulder and begin

pinning them on the shirt overlapping each other.

I pinned the circles thinner at the shoulder,

then got a little fuller towards the V part of the neckline,

then thin again.

Then I sewed them all on in a zig zag.

Basically, I moved the shirt back and forth in the sewing machine.

I went over the circles about two times in different derections

to ensure they were all secure.

I'm wearing it as we speak...

and I love it!

My favorite part is that is adds dimension to the shirt,

as well as gives it some flair to spice your outfit up.

Happy Sewing!

Better Than Broadway!

2010-05-26T13:34:00.000-07:00

For the last year and half

we have spent time with a wonderful group,

called Lighthouse.

It has been one of the most amazing experiences for our family...

especially Simon!

These pics are from their Mock Rock

where they get up and perform different songs,

kind of like an Air Guitar.

It's the BEST show ever...

better than a Broadway Show!

They sing...

They dance...

They are FULL of JOY...

and seeing them makes you walk away

full of joy too...

and so thankful...

and so blessed!

Thank you to ALL of the Lighthouse Crew

and their wonderful leaders!

We are richer in our hearts because we know you!

If You Give A Kid a Drum...

2010-05-24T14:27:00.000-07:00

he's gonna make some NOISE!

Learning New Things...

2010-05-23T13:43:00.000-07:00

I know...

I should have helped Simon ride a bike sooner,

but we kind of stayed with a tricycle up till now.

So....

this weekend we got him all set up with his very own

bike (from his cousin)

and big boy helmet. It takes a lot of training...
a lot of cheering on (from his cousins)...

an even a few brakes to let others ride...

but we're getting there...

slowly, but surely!

Save Your Jeans!

2010-05-23T13:24:00.000-07:00

Here's a great way to SAVE your favorite pair of JEANS!

If there are holes in your jeans, then try this project...

First, turn jeans inside out.

Next, iron on No-Sew Adhesive Bond to a square of two fabrics.

ONE of the squares will be seen through the hole in the jeans.

So you will have TWO equal squares...

one of them will be seen,

and the other square will be ironed to the back

(like the picture below).

Then, you will place your squares of fabric over the hole on the INSIDE of the jeans.

Turn inside out and PIN over the TOP of the jeans

(like the pic below).

At this point, you will have your hole covered from the inside,

but you will have it pinned from the outside so you can stitch.

Next, take some thick embroidery thread (4-5 strands)

and begin stitching a basic stich around the hole.

It doesn't have to be perfect!

The messier...

the better!

All Done!
These pictures aren't perfect,
but you get the idea!

Instead of ratty 'ol holes,
you have some cuteness to show off...
and get to keep those comfy, cozy, worn-out,
favorite pair of jeans!

Ribbon & Lace

2010-05-20T20:03:00.000-07:00

I tried a new technique today...

a little ribbon around the neckline,

and some lace at the base...

something' a little sweet for Baby Faith.

Happy Birthday, Sweet Girl!

Easy Re-Fashion T-Shirt

2010-05-17T07:22:00.000-07:00

I bought a fun green shirt at Old Navy

for $1.25 and wanted to spice it up a bit.

Try this little project for yourself...

First, get your t-shirt and fabric.

I always choose fabric that has hints of the same color in it.

Cut a strip of fabric (3.5"x 25")
Fold (right side to right side).
Then sew up 3 of the sides.
Use a chop stick to turn the strip right side out.
Then sew up the fourth side.

Next, begin folding and pinning the strip
along the collar, or V-Neckline.
Start at the shoulder and work your way down
to the length you want.
Fold it like you would when you make a paper fan
(kind of like an accordian).
Then sew in the center of your strip
with matching thread.
I used a double stitch to ensure it would stay.

All done!
The project took about 20 minutes and cost less than $2.
I personally love it!
You can make your strip any way you want.
You can creat a flower or zig-zag
or whatever design suits your fancy.

A great way to add some flair to a plain ol' T!

Picture/Note Holder

2010-05-13T15:10:00.000-07:00

This sign can hold notes, cards and photos.

It's super cheap and super easy!

The tutorial is a few posts down...

the only difference is that I added a

paper flower for some spice.Have fun, girls!

Ribbon Flower Headband

2010-05-13T07:49:00.000-07:00

This little headband cost about $1.20!

Headband was in the Dollar section at Target.

The ribbon was left over from some crafts.

Just take one side of the wire out on the ribbon

and gather.

Then hot glue it on a backing (like cardboard).

Glue it in a circle,

till the flower gets fuller and fuller.

You will end in the middle of the ribbon flower.

Tuck the middle in and hot glue it down.

Then glue it to your headband.

Go try it!
Happy crafting!

Pretend City with the Cousins!

2010-05-09T18:13:00.000-07:00

It was a sweet Mother's day weekend...

one that I won't forget!

One of the highlights that blessed me was seeing sweet Simon

PLAY hard with his cousins at Pretend City.

Ryan and Simon are 5 months apart and

absolutely LOVE each other!

From driving through town...

to cookin' in the kitchen...

these two had a ball!

Simon takes after his daddy and has a love for the
field of Science...
I was a little nervous he would squeeze my arm too hard...
explains the scared facial expression!

Dave saying, "I LOVE you, Jeanne!"
Just what I needed to hear this weekend;)

Oh, am I one thankful Mommy!

May EACH and every Mommy who sees this blog post

be BLESSED beyond measure!

You are valuable, loved, adored,

and cherished by your beautiful child (or children)!

When you get tired and weary...

go take a breather...

then come back...

look at your miracle of life...

and squeeze and love the heck out of 'em!

Children are a blessing...

PERIOD!

Happy Mother's Day!