The Sleepover Debate

One of my favorite things to do growing up was to spend the night at a friends' house... or have a friend stay the night at our house.  We'd stay up late, talk, make crank calls, make up dance moves, watch movies, eat junk food.  It was fun.

And it must've been a nice break for my folks as well... A built in babysitter for the entire night.  I never really thought of it from a parents' perspective until now.

But, now that I'm a parent, I have to say, my perspective is completely different and here's why.

Several years ago, one of our church pastors was asked to be a character witness for a man who was standing trial for Indecency With a Child.  Our pastor felt 100% positive that the man on trial (his friend) was completely innocent of the charges.

But, there he was.  On trial.  For abusing a child.

I don't know all of the details surrounding the trial and that is really not important.  All I know is that the daughter of the man on trial, had a friend who was spending the night at their home.  And that child went home and told her parents that her friend's father touched her.

Let me play devil's advocate here.  Say two girls are best friends at school.  They have been best friends for years.  The one friend has a boyfriend who has recently decided he didn't like her anymore.  And let's say that boyfriend decided that he now likes the other friend.  This happens on a Monday, at school... after a weekend sleepover.

What's to say, that in effort to hurt this girl (and subsequently her family) the "friend" tells a lie that the father touched her inappropriately while she was at their home over the weekend? 

Granted... this may seem far fetched... but is it really?

I realize that sexual abuse runs rampant in our world.  I'm not denying that fact or even suggesting that every girl that comes forward about sexual abuse is lying.  Certainly not.  As a mother of two girls I would believe my girls unequivocally if they ever told me about someone abusing them. 

But here's the deal.  My husband and I have made a mutual decision to not allow sleepovers at our home or at anyone else's home.  It's not worth it.  It's not worth someone or something coming against our family.  I realize I cannot protect my children from everything, but if I can protect them in this way, I am going to do it.

Our daughter's know our rule and while they don't understand exactly why we are enforcing it, they know that it is for their protection.  And it's across the board.

I recently had a mom friend ask me if Elisan could spend the night with them.  And I had to tell her... it's not about you... it's about us and a rule we have to strictly enforce.  If we break the rules for one friend, then we run into resistance the next time when another "good" friend invites her to their home for a sleepover.

The gist is... the world is not the same as it was when I was having sleepovers at a friend's house.  It's just not.  I have to take responsibility for my family, because at the end of the day... no one will protect my kids like Randy and me.

Am I extreme?  Perhaps.  What are your thoughts?

Coming to terms

Back in January, I posted about my goals for 2011. One of those goals was to run in the Rock N' Roll 1/2 marathon in November.

Well, I'm here to report that I WILL NOT be running a 1/2 marathon in November.  Shocker, right?

Here's the deal... While I still have a strong desire to run a 1/2 marathon, it will not happen this year.  I've been side-lined 2x this year with injuries - one in my hip and one in my sciatic nerve/piriformis muscle (a.k.a. butt).  And, it's happening on the same side, which makes it even more frustating. When I begin making great progress, something begins to hurt OR I get extremely busy and neglect to put in the time it takes to train.

Really... it's just a bunch of excuses.

So, while I won't be running a 1/2 marathon this year, I would like to train for and run a 1/2 marathon by my 40th birthday.

Which is next year.

Um... yeah.

40.

Next year.

I'm in disbelief myself.

So all you local folks that are my in real life friends... what'd ya say?  Anyone want to actually commit to run a 1/2 marathon with me next year?

Blog Brain Dump

The other day, I had a friend call me and ask if everything was okay.  She said, "Well, I'm just calling to check on you because you not only quit Facebook, but you are taking a blog break."

The funny thing is, the blog break was totally unintentional.  Seriously.  I've just been so stinkin' busy that the thought of me sitting down at my computer to type up something that would be interesting enough to read... well, sorry folks...writing complete sentences with a touch of humor didn't fit into my schedule.

In other news, yes I DID in fact quit Facebook.  What began as a Facebreak, ending up with me breaking up with Facebook altogether.  My disillusionment with Facebook began several weeks ago when FB changed up their format.  I know, change is good... change is for the better... blah, blah.  But honestly, the change wasn't working for me.  Then a few days later, there was a special speaker at MOPS who spoke on organization and self-management. She talked about how we as a society have become ruled by our own personal technology and that it has gotten out of hand, etc., etc.  I agreed whole-heartedly and thus began my "Facebreak". I chopped my "friend" list by 240+ people and announced I was taking a break.

The very next day, I had a hair cut appointment with my fab friend and hairdresser Alison of Happy Hair Beauty Parlor and we began discussing (the not so good points of) FB and she said she stopped using FB about 3 months ago and has never looked back!  When I left her shop, I had decided I would pull the plug on mine too.  And I did.  And it feels great.  And can you believe it... NO WITHDRAWALS! 

Sure, I'm gonna miss seeing pictures and reading updates on my friends and family, but I figure, if I'm good enough friends with you now, then I'll stay updated anyway.  Right now, I just don't need the brain clutter and noise in my head.  My job is too important to get bogged down in outside influences that try to distract me from what I need to be doing as a wife and mom.

I have so much more to say, but my post about FB took up more space than I intended.  I will leave you with this as I was moved by what our school principal spoke of at chapel yesterday.  Our school has begun a "Backpack Coalition" and what that means is our school is partnering with a local public elementary school in our area to provide food for 75 kids who would normally go without food over the weekend.  Our principal talked about how most of these 75 elementary aged students only get to eat what is offered at the school via the free and/or reduced lunch program.  As part of our school's local missions project, we are collecting non-perishable food items each week and the high school students are making distribution bags to hand out to these 75 children in need each Friday afternoon.  The food is handed out discreetly to these students so as to not embarrass them and is placed in their backpacks before they head home for the weekend.

Mrs. O'Brien mentioned a little girl from last Friday who came up to her and said, "Do you know what?  Today is my birthday and this is the best birthday present ever!"  I fell to pieces right then and there.  Why?  Well, because it was MY little girl's birthday last Friday as well.  Oh my word.  The tears came pouring out and I couldn't help but think that that little girl's best birthday present ever was a bag of non-perishable food. A little girl, who was no doubt, the same age as my little girl. 

Thank you Lord for allowing me to be at chapel yesterday to hear the testimony of what you are doing in the lives of these kids.  Kids who would otherwise go hungry.  Please place before me opportunities to help those in need.  Lord, thank you for your abundant blessings in my life and in the life of my family.  Lord, I pray we never take for granted all that you do for us.

Happy Birthday Kyla Mae!

Today is my baby's 8th birthday!  (Sniff-sniff)
I can't believe that she is already 8 years old!

Kyla, I love you with all of my heart!  You are the spirit and liveliness in our home.  You are silly, funny, witty and crazy.  You are also stubborn, strong-willed and a mind-changer like no one I've ever known.

I pray that this year will bring you much happiness and joy (and compliance... hah!)

Love, Mommy

Breathe In & Breathe Out

Now that Randy's home, I can take a moment to decompress and breathe in and breathe out!

As I mentioned in my last post, the 10 days that Randy was out of the country were hand's down the busiest 10 days of my adult life.  Let's just say... I'm glad I'm not a single parent, because I don't think I could ever possibly manage it all AND keep my sanity at the same time. If I wasn't coming, I was going... or waiting... or attending... or driving... GOODNESS, the driving... and very little sleeping.  Throw in a dog-sitting gig on behalf of my mom and dad who have been on vacation these last 9 days and you have the makin's of a very tired and very frazzled mom.

About 12 hours after Randy got home yesterday, it all caught up to me and I balled like a baby.  I didn't realize how stressed out I was, until I didn't have to be stressed out anymore.

I have friends who husband's are military men on active duty and I honestly don't know how they do it.  (Erica McM... you amazed me when Chris was away!)  I also have friends whose husbands work off-shore or travel consistently for their jobs... Again, how do they manage? All I can say is THANK THE LORD I have a husband who works a great job, who has great hours and who takes my kids to their team practices!  I know not everyone is as fortunate and trust me... I do not take it for granted.  Not now, not ever!

Speaking of traveling... in less than two months, we'll be heading out to Disney World for our family vacation.  We are beyond excited and can't wait to go back.  I mentioned to Randy that I was hesitant to mention  to anyone that we were going to Disney World (again) because we just went in May 2010. But he reminded me that we sacrificed vacations for nearly 10 years (both due to finances and his job schedule) and that we should not be ashamed of taking another vacation so soon... even BACK to Disney World, if that's what we choose to do.  Goodness knows, we seem to sacrifice a lot around here, or at least a lot more than most people, so I agree... I'm not going to be worried what other people think about our family's vacation plans!

With that said... I'll probably talk a bit about Disney planning in the coming week, although, I put so much effort in planning the last trip, I think most of my planning is already done for me!  And this time around, I'm not planning the trip for 9 people... just us four this time!

And that's about it for now.  Busy weekend and next week seems to be booked up already.  When did I get so busy?  (Are we the only ones?!)

The longest birthday on record!

Right now, my husband is on a jet plane flying over the Pacific Ocean on his way home from Taiwan. Words cannot express my JOY of having him home today!  The 10 days he has been gone have been hands-down the busiest 10 days in my adult life.  *Yay me!  I'm just glad it's coming to a close... and soon!  (But, more on that later!)

This trip to Taiwan was not planned.  In fact, we were at my girls' soccer game on Saturday morning when he got a call from his BIG boss asking if he could fly out to Taiwan on Monday to fix an equipment issue for one of their clients.  Randy has earned the reputation of being the 'cleaner'.  If you got a problem, he'll clean up your mess and fix the problem that got you into the mess!  And, that's what he did.

So, now, he's flying home!  Yippee!

And today is his birthday... He celebrated his birthday in Taiwan yesterday (Sept 21). And, he's celebrating his birthday in the U.S. today (Sept 21).  He is officially celebrating the longest actual birth date on record.  There's got to be some kind of special reward for that... perhaps DOUBLE FUDGE chocolate cake?  Perhaps, perhaps!

So, happy birthday my man!

You ROCK my world in more ways than one!

Just had to share

We're having a low key birthday celebration for Kyla this year, but I still wanted to design her a birthday party invite to send to her 2 invitees! 

I love how this turned out and I just had to share!

Gain some perspective girlfriend!

Dang, we're already 3 full weeks into school and I'm already feeling the stress and over-burden of it all.  IT... meaning... school, homework, commute, emails, homework (yes, I said it twice), meal planning/preparing, school activities, school sports, club sports, practices, games... etc. etc.  Seems like I'm meeting myself coming and going.

And, y'all... this is my FULL-TIME job.  Being a stay at home wife and mother.  I honestly don't know how working mothers do it, but bless you for doing it.  I'm fortunate enough to be a stay at home parent, otherwise, believe you me... our lives would be in a tailspin if I ever attempted to work full time in addition to what I'm doing now.  Because truth be told, I gave up my pursuit of the "Super Mom" title a long time ago.

But, even though I'm no longer pledging to be Super Mom, I still find myself stressed out, over-burdened and in a slump some days.  And that feeling, my friends, stinks!

So, on Monday it just kind of hit me like a ton of bricks. And that is... PERSPECTIVE.

When my stressed out funkiness comes out, really I all I need to do is stop and think PERSPECTIVE.  It's all in how we perceive our chaos.

So, I choose, this week (and beyond) to stop and take a step back and say... "Gain some perspective girlfriend" and begin handling my life stressors in a way that will benefit those around me, rather than be to their detriment.

Because as I'm quickly learning... it ain't always about ME.

Catching up

It looks like our summer hibernation just might be over... or at least, on the verge of being over.  I'm so glad for cooler temperatures.  Now, if we could just get some rain...

Speaking of rain, dear God, please send us some rain.  Not only to help us with the drought situation, but also with the raging wildfires that are plaguing this area.  We need you on this one Lord!

And speaking of wildfires, one of Randy's friends lost their home to the fires in Bastrop on Sunday.  Thankfully, they were out of town for the long weekend and no one was injured.  I cannot imagine what they are going through... them and the 500+ other families going through the same thing all throughout Central Texas.  I pray that the loss of life continue to be minimal and that the fires will be contained quickly.

In other news, it has recently come to my attention that I have not posted pictures from the girls' first day of school.  Better late than never?  I know, I can hardly believe that I have been remiss in adding their back to school picture.  It's certainly NOT like me. The girls are loving school this year, which is always a blessing.  So happy to have kids who not only love school, but who want to do well and work hard. 

Elisan (5th grade/age 10)

Kyla (2nd grade/age 7)

As you may recall, Elisan made the "Rock the Flock" praise and worship team at school.  Their first time on stage was this week and they did an amazing job!  I was so proud of my ROCKER!

And since I don't want to leave out my youngest, here's a picture of Kyla hard at work during soccer practice.  Randy takes the girls out each evening and works with them for about an hour.  Their skills have vastly improved and it's been a good bonding experience for him and them.  I'm so thankful for a husband who takes time out of his day to spend time with his kids!

We covet your prayers here in Central Texas.  Please remember us.

Turning the tables - just for today...

Okay, so after my post yesterday about how I've lived vicariously through my children for the last 10 years, I have the need to rant.  Just a little.  And, it's about my child being "mistreated".

Of course, I'm not objective AT all here.  Everything I'm about to write about is my opinion and goodness, help me if Randy happens upon this post, because he'll be mad at me for airing out a rant on a public forum, but here goes:

Just a little background information...My 10 year old has been playing soccer since she was 5 years old.  She has always played with teams that are a grade below her because of where her birthday landed on the calendar.  (Example: Last year, she was the oldest player on her team and in 4th grade, yet played on a team of 3rd graders, etc.)  Honestly, it has been a better fit for her for her to play with kids who are not towering over her because the truth of the matter is, Elisan is a very petite child.

So, they had team tryouts last week. There's a whole new batch of coaches this year and Elisan was so excited to see all of her former teammates again!

Well, as you can probably guess, Elisan was not placed on the same team she was on last year, and in fact, it appears as if she was placed on the 3rd string team with new team members and honestly we (Randy and I) believe it has mostly to do with her size, not her skill.  Now, I'm not saying that skill was not a factor in the team distribution.  Of course not...because honestly, Elisan is not a very fast runner.  But, she's a very intuitive player and to put it bluntly,... she's aggressive and not afraid to get down and dirty when needed.

So, her landing on a third string team just really took us all by surprise.  Granted, I don't want to be "that" parent who complains and bullies our way onto the better team.  But, as a mom, I'll tell you... I want to call up the coaches and tell them a thing or two.  Randy on the other hand wants her skill to overshadow her size and not say a thing because we will not be doing her any favors for swooping and in saving the day for her.

Man, I could swing both directions on this dilemma.  Let the conviction begin... "It ain't about mama" or mama's feelings.  Sigh...

It ain't about mama

Y'all, it's time to 'fess up and be transparent here. And I'll be the first to admit... this pains me to talk about. It really does. You know why? Because I've come to realize something. It's not about mama.

Okay, let's get one thing out of the way. It's never been about me. It's about God. Always has been, always will be.

But, I'm going to bring the "It's Not About Mama" issue closer to home.

As a stay at home wife and mother, my JOB is to care for my family. That means, doing everything "home related" stuff, plus "wife related" stuff, plus "kid related" stuff. I love what I do and I'm blessed to have a husband who supports me and our decision for me to do just that... take care of the home/wife/kid related duties.

In my "kid related" stuff, it means stepping in and helping my kids be as successful as possible.

• It means, helping with homework (when needed) so my kids do well in school.
• It means, when my kids get parts in musicals, I'm there to help them practice.
• It means, when my kids get selected to play on a team sport, we're their biggest fans.
• It means, when their team wins, we get to celebrate the victory.
• It means, when my kids get a good conduct report, academic award or special acknowledgement for their accomplishments, we as parents get to stand back, with puffed out chests, saying... "That's MY girl!"

And as hard as I try, I cannot help but think I had a part in all of it. That it was me who made them successful. That it was me that caused them to succeed. That it was me that made them smart, talented, athletic. That is was me... ME... ME!

And you know what? It's not about me. It's not my accomplishment. It's not my report card. It's not my team. It's not my song. It's not my "win". It's not my award. It's not mine at all.

And how often do I stand back and pat myself on the shoulder for MY job well done? Ummm....to be completely transparent... EVERY TIME!

My child's triumphs (and failures) do not define me as a mom. They are theirs and theirs alone.

What does define me as a mom, is that I raise my kids to be respectful human beings, make good choices, work hard and love others. That's it. That is MY defining moment. And if I can't succeed in that... then I have no business patting myself on the shoulder for anything.

That's not to say that I won't ever be proud of my kids ever again. Certainly not! I will always, always be proud of my kids. I'll be the one beaming the brightest whenever they triumph in life. And, I'll be there to pick them up when they fail. Because that's my job.

But, I've come to realize that they have to make their life their own. They don't need the added pressure of mama trying to "live the dream" with them.

And that my friends, is ALSO a defining moment.

One last hurrah!

On Monday, the girls' and I celebrated the final days of summer with a GIRLS' DAY OUT filled with shopping and lunch!

I so cherish the time I've been able to spend with my girls this summer. I just cannot put it into words... or else I'll get all teary-eyed and mushy. But, what a great way to cap off a great summer. Here a glimpse of our day!

I LOVE these girls.

Fun School Notes!

Only 5 days until school begins in our household. I don't know if I want to cry or... well, cry. This summer has been amazing and I've loved every second of having my little chickadees at home with me!

Several days ago, my friend Kim sent me a link to some fun school notes. I thought they were fun too so I decided to create my own set, customized, of course!

Please note, the details/contents of the notes are not from me. I am not that thorough and I would have probably left out a ton of stuff like... the section for my child's name, etc. I did however, revamp the design to make it more suitable to my taste and preferences.

EDITED TO ADD: The "FUN SCHOOL NOTES" has been so popular on Pinterest, I've made a freebie blank set available for download here! Each .pdf file is formatted with three "FUN SCHOOL NOTES" per page. ENJOY!

The long awaited post!

Yea, I know, y'all've been waiting with bated breath for this post. The post that should be entitled... "What the heck I've been doing for the last two weeks or more!"

Let me say, this is the FIRST DAY in a long list of days that we are staying home and NOT going anywhere. School begins next week and we are finally done with everything. Indoor soccer, YMCA Volleyball, 10th birthday party (and party prep...more on that later), traveling, etc. We just needed a DOWN DAY.

This in essence is going to be a big ol blog brain dump. So, skim through the parts you aren't interested in...

Class Reunion
My 20 year high school reunion was two weeks ago. Let me be the first to say that it was awesome seeing people I haven't seen since the last 10 year class reunion (or since high school graduation.) I loved catching up and meeting peoples' families. But, as expected, I mostly visited with people that I was closest to in high school. By 10 p.m., I was ready to go. So much of ME has changed, there isn't much commonality any longer. And that's okay! I didn't expect it and I wasn't disappointed!

All in all, I'm glad I went, it was everything I expected it to be and at times it was MOST entertaining.

And since there was much discussion as to what I would wear to my class reunion, you'll be happy to know that I found the cutest dress at White House Black Market. It's so stinking cute, very flattering and can either be dressed up or dressed down. I wore this dress with some jeweled flip flops for a more casual dressed down look!

And, this dress - Voile Printed Sundress - is now on sale for $60.00! Don't worry, I got it on sale too. Not for $60.... but, close!

Randy & Erica, 8/6/11

10th Birthday Party
Elisan's 10th birthday party was last Friday night. Because we're so much alike, she's been planning this party for over 4 months. She had very specific ideas as to what she wanted to do, how she wanted it to look and who was invited. (I love that about my type-A personality daughter!)
So, I began working on all the party prep stuff at least a month ago... maybe more. Here's how it turned out.

The free PLH digital kit is still available for download here.

This was such an easy party! We served pizza for dinner, then brought the girls down to the neighborhood pool for swimming. After swimming, Randy and I set up a 14 topping Sundae Buffet for ice cream sundaes! The ice cream sundaes were a HUGE hit and I think this may be our new go-to idea for birthday parties. The girls finished up the evening with presents and karaoke. Fun was had by all!

Craft Tutorial

For the party, I also worked on a craft project. I made magnets for the goodie bags using round wooden pieces, Mod Podge Dimensional Magic and the PLH round circles that I designed. The circles can also be used as stickers, tags or cupcake toppers.

This project is pretty self explanatory. My only change in the project would be to use white school glue, rather than a glue stick. I had a few that began pulling away from the wood one they dried completely. The ones I did with the white school glue did not pull away.

Also, in photo 3, on the top row, I'm sanding the paper edges for a smooth finish. Hot glue a magnet on the back and there ya go!

This was a CHEAP, fun and easy craft. A great take-away for the girls and something that will last a long time.

That's all for now folks. I'll leave you with this... a picture of my sweet little guy, TJ. Now, if I can only get him to NOT poop in the upstairs family room. Sigh...

At least he's consistent. And for my sake, at least we can gate off the upstairs!

Happy 10th Birthday Elisan!

Happy 10th Birthday to my beautiful daughter Elisan Rae!

You are such a blessing to your family. The day you were born forever changed the way I viewed motherhood. For that, I thank you. Your daddy and I believe that you are incredibly special, equipped with gifts and talents that God intends for you to use for His glory. Our prayer is that we can further prepare you for what God has in store for you!

We love you so much. Never forget that no matter what, we will always love you and there is NOTHING that will ever separate our love for you.

Have a wonderful birthday, my sweet sweet.

Cut me some slack people

I have much to report...

• class reunion
• craft tutorial
• 10 year old birthday party (THIS FRIDAY!)
• orthodontic trips
• kids' camp
• dress shopping
  
• general mayhem, etc., etc.

...but, it ain't happening today. Maybe not even tomorrow, but I can't be certain. Tomorrow, I have it all planned out that I am to clean my house. However, I'm torn on whether or not I should actually clean my house BEFORE the party on Friday, or just wait until Saturday, once it's all said and done.

Anyway, I leave you with this. It's a picture from my class reunion on Saturday. Y'all... I had a REALLY GOOD hair day. I mean, I was astonished at how great my hair looked. And that's saying a lot, since it was 100 degrees with 100% humidity that day. My hair and humidity do not usually jive.

(Oh, and yay... see that dress I'm wearing? White House Black Market rocks!)

PLH {Peace Love Happiness} Freebie Printables and Digital Kit Download

In honor of my soon-to-be 10 year old's birthday, I'm offering up for download the digital kit and printables I created exclusively for her!

I created this kit under strict supervision of my daughter. She wanted something cute, fun and funky. I think we were successful!

Included in this (.zip file) download are:

• 4 - 12x12 hi-resolution papers (.jpg)
• 3 - hi-resolution elements (.png)
• Printable water bottle labels (.pdf)
• Printable goodie bag toppers (.pdf)
• Printable foldover food label tents (.pdf)
• Printable foldover stationery cards (great for goodie bags and thank you notes!) (.pdf)
• Printable circle label sheet (great for cupcake toppers or stickers) (.pdf)

PLH {Peace Love Happiness}
Digital Kit & Printables

Click image to download

Sample invitation:

If you have trouble with the download link, send me an email and I'll send it to you directly.
Enjoy!

Total Brain Fart

Yes.... I said the word FART on my blog. I'm sure that will increase the traffic to my blog 10-fold... of prepubescent boys.

So, Elisan's birthday is coming up. After long discussion, we decided to have her party on a Saturday night (Aug 13th). Her actual birthdate is Friday, August 12th.

While we were in the decision making process, I created the first invitation to read Friday, August 12.

Well, apparently I didn't overwrite that file because when I placed the order for her cards, I mistakenly ordered the Friday invitations and not the updated Saturday invitations.

Being the blond that I am... (pause) Being the blond that I am... and the fact that I NEVER proofread... EVER! I didn't notice the invitations read Friday, August 12 and not Saturday, August 13th.

I got an RSVP the other day and the mom was going on and on about some possible upcoming conflicts (yadda-yadda) and mentioned that Friday should work for their schedule.

It wasn't until TWO days later that I stopped and thought to myself that I had better reread that invite. Sure enough... I mailed out the Friday invites.

What's funny, is that we have a volleyball game on that Friday night at the same time I scheduled the party. We would not have even been here!

I think to avoid looking like a ninny, we're going to skip the volleyball game and go with the party instead.

I think I've spent too much time in the sun!

Engineers can't spell

I got this email from Randy yesterday. The funny thing is, I was sitting out by the pool when I got it.

(This is the blonde in me....) I was thinking, "How did he know I was sweaty?"

FYI: He meant to write "sweetie".

Uninspired

Uninspired. It's not usually a word I use to describe myself.

But, today...? This week...? Yep. Uninspired.

However, I think I'm really overwhelmed.

In my 38 years of life, I HAVE learned something about myself and that is when I'm overwhelmed, I feel underwhelmed.

Why is that? I don't know.

I think it's because I'm such a list-maker and task master, that when my list stretches beyond my capabilities (or time constraints) I tend to lose focus. That my friends, is not a good thing.

So, help a girl out. What do you do when you feel OVERWHELMED, UNDERWHELMED or UNINSPIRED?

photo credit

Hair that will change your life!

Okay, so I stumbled upon a hair tutorial and I just had to share!

This tutorial has changed the way I style my hair with curls! I just love everything about it!

Click this link "Vintage Style Curls Without Heat" to view the tutorial. I've included my own pictorial collage for your reference.





What I like most about this style, is that it literally takes 5-10 minutes before bedtime (w/partially dry or dry hair). I had no trouble sleeping on it and it stays all night long. In the morning, it literally takes 2 minutes to take down, then style as usual. The curls last all day.

This style produces the same Taylor Swift type curls. I just happened to brush my curls out. Add a little hair product to keep the ringlets in place and there ya go. Simple, easy and fun.

Blog Brain Dump

The girls and I had a nice trip visiting family last week. It's always nice to hang with my 'rents and catch up with them. But, I'll be honest here, it's better to be back home.

So, we hit a milestone at our house. Elisan is officially an orthodontics patient. The first week of August she will get a palette expander which is used to widen the upper jaw to make room for the adult teeth that still need to come in.

I remember getting my palette expander and the subsequent gap it made between my two big front teeth. Sigh....

The ortho did let me know that they'll close that gap with a mini-set of front teeth braces until she's ready for the full set of braces - when she's about 13. (Thank goodness!) I remember feeling very self conscious about that gap in my front teeth. I'm glad that the orthodontist offers this option... especially for little girls of mama's who had bad orthodontal experiences.

As you know I've been running. Training for a 1/2 marathon in the Fall (Lord willing). And if you've been a reader of my blog for any length of time, you know that I loathe running. Well, I loathe running any distance longer than a mile.

But let me speak frankly here... I've been working out regularly, and by that I mean, 3-5x/week for 4+ years. I've taken all sorts of classes. I've used every cardio machine at the gym. I've lifted weights. And I can honestly say that none of that has changed my body/physique as much as running has.

Don't get me wrong, I still lift weights and I love the way it makes me look and feel. I even benched press 100lbs the other day, which by the way is AWESOME for a girl. I love having defined muscles and upper body strength. But, the running has really chiseled away at my trouble spots and I'm really excited about that!

Believe me, I've given every excuse imaginable NOT to run. Honestly, I have. But, after seeing the results after 6 months, I know that running is something I'd like to keep doing.

Running is hard. It's probably one of the hardest things I've ever done. It's also hard on your body and you can get injured easily if you don't take proper precautions. But, I challenge you to begin running. Give it a chance and you might just be surprised at the results!

So, Randy and I were having a conversation the other day about a dude that we've seen at the soccer fields that he said give him the "willies"... and gives me the "bad guy vibe". It was ironic to hear him say that he has encountered men that he too gets a "bad guy vibe" from. I began ticking off a list of "bad guy vibe" men that we both know and he agreed with me about 85% of the time. It was interesting indeed. So my question... do you get "bad guy vibes" too? And have you ever discussed it with your husband? You might be surprised like I was.

My 20th high school reunion is coming up in a few weeks and the dress is "casual". I'm from a small redneck town and "casual" can run the gambit of shorts and tee's, jeans and cowboy boots, hoochie mama clothing, etc. I want to dress "casual", but I want to look classy/hip. I'm having the hardest time with this. Probably because I'm neither classy or hip? Hah. I think that's really the reason! My friends Kris and Cyndi both sent me some links to some clothing ideas, but I'm just not sure. Where's my clothing stylist when I need her? Anyone want to volunteer to tag along on a shopping trip with me? Anyone?

Okay, that's it for now. The girls and I are having a "Girls Night Out" before Randy returns from his 2 week business trip tomorrow. Our last HOORAH before daddy come homes!

I'm here...

I'm here... Just got back from a week long trip to visit my family. Once I get a day or two under my belt around here, I'll update my blog!

Until then... I leave you with this!

Relaxing in the biggest recliner I've ever sat in!

Simple Label Frames {Set 4} Freebie Download

Okay everyone, here's my last post and freebie for the week! Y'all have a safe 4th of July holiday! Happy Independence Day!

Click Image to go to download page.

*****If you are having trouble with the download, email me directly and I'll send the .zip file backatcha.

Another Label Frame Freebie Download

I've said it once and I'll say it again... I'm always looking for digi-scrap label frame downloads. And by "looking" I mean looking for FREE digi-scrap downloads.

So, enjoy this bit of free! FREE IS GOOD!

Click image to download!

Looking for sets 1& 2?

• Simple Label Frames Set 1
• Simple Label Frames Set 2

Some of you are having problems with the download page. Send me an email and I'll send the .zip file to you directly! Sorry!

Neglected

Dear blog, You poor neglected blog. My heart is sad because I have not visited you lately. It's not you... it's me. I'm just so busy right now and I don't have the time it takes to properly manage our relationship. Please forgive me. Signed, Me

Of course, I'm only joking. Sort've.

We have been busier than a one-toothed man in a corn-on-the-cob eating contest.

The girls finished up two weeks of swimming lessons last week, only to begin soccer camp this week. This is the 1st of three soccer camps they are participating in this summer. Throw in YMCA volleyball and indoor soccer and you have the makin's of some very busy (and tired) little girls. And a mama who's running around ragged.

For those who don't live around here, we got rain yesterday. And the angel's sang out "Hallelujah!" Because truth be told, we're in Drought 2011. Why is it that our weather is always characterized as "__________ 2011" or some such something or another. We just can't have normal weather around here. It has to be extreme in some way.

I'm in week 4 of my 1/2 marathon training. So far so good, but I'll tell you... it's about to ramp up to seven miles (on my long run) and I'm not sure how I'll fare. We'll see. Six miles seems to be my limit. But, doggone it... I want to run a 1/2 marathon before I turn 40. Hopefully, I can do just that.

Yesterday, I bought my FIRST pair of prescription sunglasses! Y'all, I've been wearing glasses since the first grade and I've never had a nice pair of sunglasses. I ordered them from Sam's. Sam's is offering a special, $15.00 off select Coppertone sunglasses until mid-July. I walked out paying only $80. I know, that still sounds like a lot of money, and it is... but when I've priced sunglasses in the past, it was around $150.00 a pair. So, I think $80 is a smokin' hot deal!

So, Elisan's birthday is coming up and I've been working (under her supervision) on the party invitation and printables that she wants for her party. I have to admit, it's turning out cute and can't wait to see it all come together. Here's a sneak peek!


I gotta run. Gotta get the girls off to soccer camp and myself to the gym. I have 4 miles to run today. Joy!

Freebie Alert! "Sun Rays 'n Rainbows" Printables and Digital Kit

About a month ago, my friend Erica whose family is stationed in Okinawa asked me to create a birthday party idea for her two little girls who are having a birthday party in the summer. She wanted something that was bright and fun, that included rainbows. Being a mom of two girls as well, this one was easy! I just envisioned what my two girls would love for a birthday party theme!

Y'all this printable kit is huge. I just couldn't stop myself. In this kit you'll find fully customizable:

• cupcake wrappers - 2x page (.pdf)
  
• water bottle labels -5x page (.pdf)
• fold-over food labels - 4x page (.pdf)
• fold-over goodie bag tags - 3x page (.pdf)
• thank you tags -12x page (.pdf)
• write in invitations - 4x page (.pdf)
• customizable write in invitation (.jpg)
  
• 4 pages of elements ready to print and/or punch -great for party crafts! (.pdf)
• 10 12x12 papers (.jpg file)
  
• 9 digital elements (.png files)

Below is a preview of the kit. Click here to go to download page. Please note, because of the size of the downloads, I've included individual links, so you can download only the items you are interested in.

PRINTING TIP:
Bring your own cardstock into your local Kinko's and save a ton of money!

Annoyed much?

Okay, another rant. I just can't help myself.

Yesterday while in the checkout line at the grocery store, the woman ahead of me was talking on her cell phone. She was talking as she was unloading her groceries from the cart to the conveyer. She was talking while she was counting out her money ($125.00 worth of groceries... she was paying in cash.) And she continued talking on the phone while the cashier attempted to complete the transaction.

My oldest looked at me and said, "Mom, that woman is being rude. She's been talking on the phone this entire time." My 9 year old even thought it was inconsiderate!

When it was my turn, I asked the cashier, "Does that just burn you up?" And she said, "Yes! It's very rude. I'm just trying to do my job and some people can't get off the phone long enough to pay for their groceries!"

So, people... if you are one of those people who talk on the phone while you are checking out at a store, please... put the phone down. Of, you may have a 9 year old giving you the stink eye next time.

Next rant... texting while grocery shopping.

Merry Mermaids Digi Kit Freebie!

I was recently asked by one of my good friends to create a birthday design for her little girl who is turning 7. When she told me the theme was mermaids, I was so excited to begin working on a cute design!

This kit would be so adorable to do custom mermaid favors for each party attendee. The possibilities are endless!

(Click image to download)

This "Merry Mermaids" digital kit includes 17 high resolution digital elements (.png) and 1-12x12 background (.jpg)

Here's a sample birthday party invitation using this kit!

I interrupt blog cheeriness to bring you a rant!

Y'all, I just have to rant. Seriously... someone needs to tell the people at JUSTICE JUST FOR GIRLS to give it a rest!

Today, I made an exchange at Justice. One color tank for a different color tank. It was the same price, same style, etc. All I wanted was a different color. While I was there, I needed to buy a gift card for an upcoming birthday party.

This is the conversation that followed:

Salesgirl: "Your phone number?"

Me: "xxx-xxx-xxxx" (I knew it was coming and I usually don't give it out, but this time, I relented and gave her my phone number.)

Salesgirl: she's clicking away on her register and then, "Your email address?"

Me: "We're on your e-mail list. You can skip that part."

Salesgirl: "The girls' date of birth? It's for special promotions."

Me: "Y'all have it already. You don't need it again."

Salesgirl: Getting defensive she says, "It's not me, it's the system."

Me: "Well, skip that portion."

Then, she has the nerve to ask me...

Salesgirl: "Your home address?"

Me: "Why in the world do you need my home address?"

Salesgirl: "For the exchange. It's our store policy in case something is wrong with the item."

At this point, I darn near take the tank back and tell her to stick her store policy where the sun don't shine, but my girls were standing there melting into the background. So, I gave her my home address.

And then I say...

Me: "Next y'all will want a blood draw and social security number. This is ridiculous."

Salesgirl: Quickly sends me on my way

I realize she is not making the rules here. What I can't understand is why JUSTICE JUST FOR GIRLS asks for my:

1. Phone number
2. Email
3. Birthdates of my children
4. Home address

ALL FOR ONE TRANSACTION!

I'm "this close" to writing a complaint. No, scratch that... I think I will. That's way over the top and just not reasonable.

So, I'm curious, anyone else experience the same run-around at this store?

RRCA Talent Show Performance

I'm so proud of Elisan.
She performed in the school talent show on the last day of school!

9 months later...

Drawing Winner!

Congrats to Tamrah

who won the Non-Slip Headband!
Tamrah, I sent you an email with some particulars!

Y'all have a great Friday!

What else? A blog brain dump!

It's another installment of blog brain dump. (I know, classy right?) But really, there's so much going on in my head... you're just gonna have to bear with me.

So, I got my hair highlighted last week and let me say... I LOVE IT. And, I love my new hairdresser. She's talented, amazing, beautiful and loves the Lord with her entire heart! Her hair salon is called "Happy Hair Beauty Parlor" and let me be the first to say (here)... my hair is happy again! She works by customer referrals, so consider this your personal invitation to try Alison at Happy Hair Beauty Parlor. You can get her contact info on her website. Oh, and please tell her that ERICA sent you! (She has summer specials running right now, so be sure to check it out!)

Yesterday was Awards day at school. Both girls did ah-mazing and I'm so proud of each of them. I wish I could brag to the fullest extent about their awards, but I fear that I would be "braggin" not "bloggin". I will say that I'm extremely impressed and continually counting my blessing for such awesome little girls.

Also in school news, I'm happy to report that Elisan was selected to be on the 5th grade praise and worship team at school. Their team is called "Rock the Flock". She auditioned last week and after a long weekend of waiting on pins and needles, she finally learned yesterday that she made the team. I haven't seen her so giddy in a long time! (If that's even possible. She's always giddy!)

As promised, I have a fun giveaway for big or little girls! As you know, I've been making non-slip headbands for the girls and me. We love them and they really work. I recently made several using sequins and they are so adorable!

Leave a comment on this blog entry to enter.

I'll draw a winner on Friday! If you are selected, you can choose between hot pink, turquoise or silver.

And if you think these are only for little girls... think again! I've made two for a fellow mom and one for myself! Bring a little bling to your workout!

I made the switch!

For nearly a year, Randy has been begging/bribing me to make the switch from my beloved Sprint cell phone service and move to Boost $50 unlimited (text, internet/data, minutes) service plan.

Okay, I'll admit... it's not really my "beloved" Sprint service...it's more like my beloved phone number I've had forever.

I'll be honest here, I loathe getting emails from people that say, "please update my contact information with this new phone number" because truth be told, I rarely do. Unless, it's like my mom or someone as equally as important. And I didn't want my new phone number to to fall prey to laziness. (Tell me I'm not alone here!)

For the last several weeks, Randy has been hitting me up pretty hard about making the switch to Boost, since my Sprint contract would expire in May. But I kept telling him I didn't want to change phone numbers.

So, he did a bit of research and because Sprint owns Boost (and Boost operates on Sprint's network) there really was no need to change numbers. People, this is contrary to what EVERY Sprint representative has ever told us. I can't tell you how many times Randy and I went into a Sprint store looking for someone to tell us that, yes, in fact, I would be able to keep my phone number after all. But, no such luck! Maybe something about Sprint not wanting to lose business/income to it's "no-contract-step-sister" called Boost.

In effort to keep the peace in my family (and increase my calling plan) I finally agreed to make the switch to Boost... AND, with that, I agreed to get a new number if I had to.

Well, to make a long story short... After staying on the phone for nearly 30 minutes, Randy was able to get my new Galaxy Prevail Android (Boost) phone activated with my current phone number!

Y'all my husband ROCKS! This totally made my day!

And, if you are wondering... I love my new phone.

One of the coolest features on my phone is the voice activated typing. So neat! I can send emails without typing a thing! Same goes for using Facebook, etc. And because it's a Android phone, I have most (if not all) of the same apps I'm used to using on my iPod.

All of this for $50.00 a month (with the purchase of the phone, of course.) I'm totally sold on Boost!

Full Throttle

Y'all, it's that time of the year when our little life is at full throttle.

Trust me, I'm loathing the fact that I haven't updated my little piece of real estate I call a blog in over a week. Truth is... I can't spare a square.

Or rather, I can't spare a reasonable block of time to think, write, edit (oh, who am I kidding... I don't edit) a blog entry.

I will tell you I've got a few things that I'm excited about, including some new summer-style digi kits! I'll need a coupla more weeks to finish them up, but I think they will be great for summer!

I'm also planning a summertime girly girl giveaway (for little girls) before school is out. So, hang in there peeps.

And finally, I leave you with this... if you are a Coach purse fan, Coach Outlet now has a website. I got a "secret" email today about a sale offering an additional 30% of already reduced outlet prices. There are some great deals there... sigh, too bad I can't justify owning another purse.

So much for secrets. Let that be a lesson learned.

(No, not really. I can keep secrets... just not about secret sales!)

In Texas, we only have Hummer Limos

I'm not sure where in cyber-space this post ended up, but I'm "reposting for posterity"! (Say that 5 times fast!)

As promised... because I KNOW you have been waiting anxiously for...

The Limo Re-Cap

I chaperoned a group of 10 - 1st and 2nd graders.
Here they are saying "Limo Ride!"

And.... we're off!

A fun-filled lunch of pizza and games!

Our driver, who by the way was kind of creepy.

Here's Elisan's group of 4th and 5th graders.
Apparently telling the kids to say "Limo Ride" as I was snapping a picture
was "SO NOT COOL MOM", as I was told later that day.

Here's Elisan waving goodbye (already, woman!)

Blog Brain Dump

This is going to be quick and I'm going to admit, I'll probably not proofread this entry... which really isn't anything new, but I thought I'd throw that disclaimer out there. Just for grins.

So, this weekend was Mother's Day. And let me say, I'm truly blessed beyond measure. And not just because they gave me bling for Mother's day, but because my two little girls and awesome husband are just th' bomb. No seriously, they are.

And speaking of bling... Randy took the girls to Hannah D's so they could each pick out a thing or two for Mother's day. And when I say bling, I mean... bling. Kyla picked out a necklace set for me that can only be descibed as the "crown jewels" but in turquoise. Um, yeah. Honestly, I want to love it, I really do, but something tells me I won't be going to prom anytime soon.

I gently told her that although I LOVE what she picked out for me, my wardrobe doesn't have anything that would qualify for such blingity bling and that maybe we should go back and pick something out that mommy would indeed be able to wear. She happily agreed because she's a girl and loves the opportunity to shop.

Speaking of shopping (how about that for a segue...) I've found something "new" to me that I love. Y'all, I'm not very adventurous when it comes to milk (or milk type products). I like 1% milk and I've always been happy with it. Until HEB had their Almond Milk on sale the other day for $1.00 off. I bought a 1/2 gallon of the unsweetened vanilla flavored Almond Milk and OH.MY.GOODNESS! It's like dessert in a glass. And for 40 calories per 8oz... I'm hooked. Apparently Almond Milk has similar nutrients as regular milk, but with less calories. It also has less protein than cow's milk, but I don't lack in the protein department. I definitely recommend trying it. It took a time or two for me to embrace the flavor, but now, I really love it! (photo credit: www.savingwithshellie.com)

Tomorrow, the girls' are going on a Hummer Limo ride to Gattiland as a prize for raising a certain amount of money for the school's fundraiser. Yep, a Hummer Limo. Fancy, right? So, I got a call last week asking if I wanted to chaperone a group of kids who were also going on the limo ride and my answer, "HECK YEAH!" So, tomorrow, I too will be riding in a Hummer Limo. I'll definitely get pictures and post them later this week.

Maybe my prom necklace will come in handy afterall?

So, I'm curious...A follow up

Thank you to everyone who replied to the "So, I'm curious..." post a couple of weeks ago. If you're not familiar with this post about friendship, then by all means, please catch up.

We'll wait.

Heidi (Minnesota Mom) suggested a follow up blog entry to "So, I'm curious..." and I agree. The topic of friendship... close, endearing, long lasting friendships seemed to be on all of our hearts.

Each of you had great insight and comments.

Melissa wrote: "I am always watching for other women because I crave friendships."

I crave friendships too, but like Pam, who wrote: "...when I get to know the person, if it's not a good fit, I try to set good boundaries." So true.
I think Pam brings up an important point. Sometimes, we're just not a good fit for another. It's almost like dating. When you were dating your husband, you didn't know beforehand that he might be "THE ONE". It might have taken weeks or months to realize that, 'hey, this guy is great and I want to hang on to him.'

Of course, you could have an situation like Kendi, who wrote: "And yet (for) some people it is instant as if you were both looking for each other all your life... when everything lines up just so, it is such a gift."

Have you ever seen a woman at church, the gym, your kids' school and thought, "I could definitely be friends with her." Yep, me too. But, sadly, I rarely act upon it. Why is that?

Heather brings up a point I know I've thought before. "(I have) one very close friend, but is she my best friend? Maybe? Am I her best friend? I don't know. Hmmm. " I've been there too. You get emotionally invested, but is she?

Heidi also echos this same thought, "I have one "friend with potential" but she's the type who has a million friends, so I don't know that I'd ever be her best friend even if she was mine."

Kendi mentioned, "I think it scares women when you get real with them. And suddenly you are vulnerable and they are backing up."

I think we all agree that our husbands are our number one "best" friends. I consider my husband to be my best friend, but does he really care when we blather on and on about something so insignificant (to him!) that, let's be honest girls... can sometimes EAT OUR LUNCH! I know of a particular event that happened several weeks ago that I wanted to discuss AT LENGTH with Randy and he would have nothing to do with it. ACK! I needed him to listen to me vent, but he could care less because he asked me straight up, "Do you want me to solve this problem for you?" And I said no! And he said, "Well, I can't help you then!" MEN! (Sigh...)

I mentioned being intimidated by other women in my first post and Shanna agreed that she can be intimidated by other women too. But, Shanna also mentioned, "I think that I am not approached often because I put off a snobby vibe, although it is not intentional and probably my own insecurities shining through." I know I do this too. Honestly, I'm NOT a snob, but definitely carry that vibe around. I think it's shyness mistaken for aloofness. Perhaps?

Heidi also mentioned, "I became an introvert somewhere over the last decade, and I tend to keep to myself unless I'm drawn out." Me too... (sigh)

Or, you can be like Amanda, who said, "I crave solitude more than social interaction, so I tend to neglect my friendships." (I've known Amanda for 30 years... tsk, tsk Amanda!)

Stephanie brought up an excellent point about social media outlets that probably deserves it's own post. Stephanie said, "social media these days really gives a false sense of intimacy. You see pictures and updates and think you know what's going on in peoples' lives, but it's not the same as a face-to-face relationship!" AMEN Sister!

We have the potential to become so disconnected because of social media outlets like Facebook (and even email) because we rely on that outlet to communicate for us. Even passive communication like status updates and birthday shout-outs. When is the last time you sent an actual birthday card in the mail? (I'm just as guilty! I'm not pointing any fingers!)

I love what Marcie wrote: "I've had bad luck with friends. I prayed that God would take the desire out of my heart to have friends. God spoke to me one time during a service that it was time for me to start reaching out. It was clear that it was time for me to start being a friend to others so that I could start having friends. I wasn't ready to start making friends because I wasn't ready to get hurt. However, I showed myself friendly." She was obedient to God's voice and mentioned she is "showered with a great group of ladies now. It has been a true blessing."

I also love what Pam wrote: "I have found with my friends they stretch me to become who God has called me to be!" Isn't that something we all struggle with? Becoming what God has called us to be? I definitely know it's something that is constantly on my mind.

This has been such an eye opening topic for me. I thought I privately struggled with (finding, making, keeping) friendships. I'm glad to know I'm not alone, but also sad to know that I am indeed not alone. But, at least that gives me some hope, knowing that perhaps the next time I reach out to someone, they will be receptive to me.

So, the next time you see a woman and think, "I could be friends with her..." maybe, just maybe, you can be. And, maybe just maybe, she's looking out for you too.

(Certainly advice I need to follow as well!)