Just Watching My Garden Grow

Fab Find Friday: Valentine T-Shirt

2012-02-10T16:47:00.000-08:00

I saw this idea for a Valentine T-shirt on the cover of Disney's FamilyFun magazine. It took all of 10 minutes to make and that included collecting all the supplies, & putting them away, and it cost me nothing. How cool is that? Lilly's going to look adorable for her Valentine party at school.

Wee-Ones Wednesday: We Heart Bunks!

2012-02-08T15:50:00.000-08:00

The girls are all settled in their new room and they could not be happier.

Now we can check that off the list!

Misc. Monday: Naptime!

2012-02-06T16:24:00.000-08:00

This is what happens on nap time when someone falls asleep in the car. Why is it that a 20 minute car nap can take the place of a 2 hour sleep in bed? I knew she was up to something because I could hear her, but I wasn't about to go in there to check. At least, she stayed in her room for an hour making a mess. I'll gladly trade that for the 5 minutes it will take us to pick it up!

Sew Crafty Saturday: Foxy Baby Shower

2012-02-04T16:51:00.000-08:00

My friends and family blessed me with the cutest, baby boy shower you've ever seen! It was brown and orange, and ever so foxy! I could not believe all the sweet touches. Hendricks received all the Fletcher the Fox books, and Fox in Socks by Dr. Seuss. He also got some adorable outfits, an amazing quilt, foxy clothes and hats, and Mommy even got a super cute fox tote. We are blown away by every one's generosity, love, and support. Can't wait to share this little guy with you!

Misc. Monday: Foxy Nursery Part 2

2012-01-30T08:01:00.000-08:00

Every little boy needs antlers and a banjo in his room, right?

The hook is from Anthropologie and the pocket watch belonged to Dan's grandpa.

I purchased both the framed fox print and wall decal on Etsy.com. You can find details on my Pinterest page.

I painted the wall mural over 5 years ago, and was instructed by the family that I could not paint over it. This fox wall decal is the perfect color and scale to complement the wall and I could not be happier with him!

This little book shelf filled with baby toys, books, family photos, and vintage find makes mama smile.

Here's a few more pictures of the baby's room. It is not complete, but well on its way. You can see part 1 here, and the inspration for the room here.

Sew Crafty Saturday: Foxy Nursery Part 1

2012-01-28T15:31:00.000-08:00

I finally finished the quilt for Hendricks' room. I love how it turned out!

I can't believe I found some fox babies. The one on the left is from Anthropologie. I made the one in the middle and the one on the right I found on zulily.com.

Here's the little pillow I made. I drew it free hand, looking at a picture. Then made a quick pattern and sewed him up using scrap fabric. I decided to paint on the eyes because I didn't want the baby to pull on embroidery floss. This sweet, little pillow will probably move to a white Eames rocker, once the room is completed.

Here's a shot of the completed quilt. It's a little bigger than a standard crib size and is super soft.

Our foxy nursery is really coming along, and we could not be happier with the progress we are making. These are some of the handmade touches. Monday, I'll share a few more photos. Right now, Lilly's still sleeping in this room. Her bunk is up and ready to go in the "girls' room", we just have to take the plunge and move her in. I'm 35 weeks now, so we still have a little time!

Misc. Monday: Snapshot a Shared Room

2012-01-23T22:08:00.000-08:00

This little shelf is above Lilly's bunk, so she can have a some privacy.

The kitchen moved in perfectly from Lilly's old room, between the two bookshelves. Iris is happy to share it!

Two of these book shelves flank to window and kitchen.

These number cards by Eeboo adorn the area above the closet.

One of the shelves. It's been fun incorporating the sheep and deer together, and balancing out initials & names.

In the midst of the chaos of the last week, I was able to steal some small moments to focus on the new rooms in our house. The girls' room is almost done. I have many more little details to share, and still some things to get up on the walls. The closet and dresser are organized, and Lilly is totally moved in except for her bed. We will probably put her mattress on the top bunk sometime in the next week. I think we are hoping to iron out any "sleeping with your sister" bumps before Dan and I have to wake up for midnight feedings. Wish us luck!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Loss

2012-01-18T08:02:00.000-08:00

Dan's dad passed away unexpectedly on Monday while Dan was taking Lilly to the dentist. People say that your life can change in an instant, but you never think it will be your life, so it makes no sense when it happens.
We told the girls Tuesday morning that Papa passed away and is in Heaven with Jesus, and we won't be able to see him anymore. Iris cried, "but I want to see Papa." Lilly replied, " We will see him when we get to Heaven."

Dan was gone most of the day helping his Mom make arrangements, so the girls and I went to the market to be able to feed the family. On the way there, we passed Grammy and Papa's street. Iris asked me if we were going to see Papa. I told her, "No... remember, we won't see Papa anymore." Lilly became annoyed with me and said, " Yes, Mom, we will see him in Heaven someday." Then she turned to Iris and said, "Papa will always be with us. We carry him in our hearts. You can't see your heart because your chest is covering it up, but it's inside of you." With tears streaming down my face, hands clutching the wheel, I asked Lilly how she knew that. She said, "Church" in a tone that sounded like DUH!

My mom brought us all dinner last night and when she was leaving Lilly told G.ma that she loved her to Heaven and back. Iris piped up, "Papa is in Heaven." Lilly said, "Yes, Sissy, and if you want to go to Heaven, you have to ask Jesus to be your leader and forgiver. Repeat after me: Dear Jesus, will you be my leader and forgiver?" Iris repeated the words and they both said, "Amen." Stunned silent, I hugged my mom good-bye and shut the door.

Papa taught these girls a lot in the too short time he had with them. He spent nearly four days a week, ten months a year, for five years with these little ladies. The impact he had on their lives was huge. I know Papa is in Heaven right now, chatting up John Wooden. I only grieve the fact that our girls won't have more time with him, and Baby Hendricks will only know about his Papa's greatness through what we tell him. Good thing his sisters have a lot to say!

We love you, Papa! Your presence will be missed every day and we look forward to that day when we will all meet again...

Misc. Monday: Seven Years!!

2012-01-16T17:23:00.000-08:00

Our 7 yr. anniversary dinner date.

Our 1st dance.

Seven years ago today, I married the love of my life. A man I thought I didn't deserve. A man who has taught me what a husband and father looks like. A man who loves Jesus. A man who loves me in spite of my faults and encourages me daily. I have been so very blessed. Happy Anniversary!
I love you, Dan!!

Misc. Monday: Slowly, But Surely...

2012-01-09T08:53:00.000-08:00

Girls' carpet before.

Girls' FLOR carpet tiles after.

Bunk bed build.

Adding Lilly's name to the room, making it officially "the girls' room."

Well, it's Monday and I have not finished the fox quilt. I did, however, organize the dress up clothes and play kitchen, do 5 loads of laundry, go to Target (twice), finally hang up my maternity clothes & get rid of the tub they've been sitting in, and take a nap while Lilly and Dan went on a 2 hour bike ride. That was when I was planning on quilting, but I decided to sit down for a minute to enjoy the silence and woke up in a puddle of drool.
So, today is the day. I will conquer that quilt if it's the last thing I do! Now that I wrote that, how much do you want to bet Iris doesn't take a nap?

Sew Crafty Saturday: Fox Quilt

2012-01-07T20:01:00.000-08:00

I am officially 32 weeks pregnant and we are well on our way to moving the girls into the same room, and putting together our son's nursery. It has been crazy over here. I didn't realize just how much work this whole process was going to be, and the baby isn't even here yet! Dan put FLOR carpet tiles in the girls' room over vacation, and I went through all the girls' old clothes (keeping some to make a baby clothes quilt for each & crying along the way). He built the bunk beds today, and I've promised myself that I would finish the baby's quilt this weekend. I'm so excited by how it looks so far. I saw the fox image on a cupcake topper, and drew it out free hand to make the pattern for the applique. All I have to do now is attach the front to the back and add the ties. I can do it! His foxy nursery is really coming together in my head. It's going to be awesome. I can't wait to share it with you!
There have been times lately that Dan and I have asked each other what we were thinking. We are so excited to meet this little guy, yet change is hard. Seeing the bunk beds built just reminds us that the girls are growing up. Lilly and Iris are getting along so well, and have been so much fun lately. I can not even imagine how someone else is going to fit into our lives. At the same time, I can't imagine not having another baby. I always wanted a big family and I can not wait to see his sweet face. I know that he is going to be such a blessing to us. Eight weeks is not a long time. I wonder if there is anything we should do before all our lives change forever (for the better, of course)...

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Christmas Day

2012-01-04T17:20:00.000-08:00

I made their skirts again this year. I made them a little big because they may just wear them next year too! (wink)

The famous silly shot!

2009

2010

Grammy & Papa

Reading Bible stories.

G.ma, G.pa, & Cousin Sophia

Decorating a snowman cake.

This one was truly the best Christmas yet! Next year, we will be a family of 5. I feel very blessed. God is so good. We hope you had a great one too!

Misc. Monday: Check Out My Husband!

2012-01-02T07:53:00.000-08:00

Dan has decided to start a blog. Can you believe it? How fun is he? Now we'll be fighting over the computer even more! Check it out and become a follower at http://itsaplaidplaidworld.blogspot.com/

Sidenote Sunday: Welcome 2012!

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

What a belly!!

Fruit loop necklaces and coloring sheets.

Face painting and tattoos by Lilly.

Can you tell that's a butterfly?

Daddy got a lightning bolt and "Dan-o."

We're almost there!

Happy New Year!

We celebrated New Year's Eve west coast style last night and it was awesome. The ball dropped at 9pm, people!!

Lots of yummy snacks, fun activities, laughing parents, and cheering kids. Who could ask for a better way to ring in 2012?

Sew Fun Saturday: Christmas Morning

2011-12-31T10:54:00.000-08:00

Thank you letter from Santa.

The goodies.

"Wake up, Lilly!"

"Wake up, Daddy!"

In our house, Santa doesn't wrap his presents.

Iris' favorite toy.

All Lilly asked for this year was these "xia xia" hermit crabs.

Daddy surprised me with a hand made Scrabble-like wall art board. He cut, painted, & finished every tile, taped off the tiny squares on the board, and used magnetic paint to hold all the pieces together. Can you believe it?

Our last Christmas as a family of four!

This was the best Christmas yet! I woke up at 5:45 to get everything ready, and Iris didn't wake up until 8am! What are the chances? The girls were just perfect. They were excited about everything, very grateful, and were not jealous of what each other received. Little problems I had anticipated never occurred. We opened presents, ate traditional coffee cake, painted, colored, and played all morning. It was lovely!
One more post, and I'll be done with Christmas. I promise.

Fab. Friday: Christmas Eve Edition

2011-12-30T08:56:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve started off with brunch at the Fogleman's (Grammy's sister's house).

We went to church with some friends & our parents and had everyone back here for beef stew and salad afterwards.

In our family, the girls are able to hug our elf, Buddy, good-bye on Christmas Eve. Iris cried because she wouldn't see him until next year, saying, "but I love him!"

Lilly's turn.

Leaving food out for the reindeer...

and milk & cookies for Santa.

Leaving Santa a magic key on our door step and sharing the good new of Jesus' birth with him.

Now off to bed!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: We've Only Just Begun...

2011-12-28T08:26:00.000-08:00

...and you thought Christmas was over! Ha! I have 300+ pictures to go through and a few to share.
December 23rd started out with Buddy hiding in our Gingerbread house, eating candy, while we went out to my Dad's house in Chino. The girls love their G.pa Mike and G.ma Sandy. They were super excited to play hide & seek, watch a train go around the tree, and get fishing poles for Big Bear. Such fun!

Fab Find Friday: Christmas Style

2011-12-23T08:35:00.000-08:00

Fabulous tiny powdered donut idea...

Perfect magic key poem for Santa for homes without a fireplace & for families who celebrate Jesus' birth on Christmas Eve (will be left on front door step)...

Fabulous little friends...

Wee-Ones Wednesday: We Heart Vacation!

2011-12-21T20:09:00.000-08:00

Monday: Fashion Island & Snowman craft & Children's Nativity.
Tuesday: Dan replaced flooring in girls' room & Errands & Starbucks hot cocoa and pull the wagon through Floral streets in Brea to look at lights.
Wednesday: Dan finished flooring & My mom and I went through girls' old
clothes and switched dressers & Gingerbread house.
Thursday: Reindeer pancakes for all (dogs too) & Make snowman donuts & Playdate gift exchange & Church
Friday: Baby doctor appointment & Market & Lunch at Crab Cooker in Newport & Christmas with the Rydells
Saturday: Christmas brunch with Foglemans & Church & Host Christmas Eve dinner
Sunday: Celebrate Jesus' birth & Open presents & Visit Grammy and Papa & Visit G.ma and G.pa
*We wouldn't believe it if we didn't write it all down!

Misc. Monday: Little Angels

2011-12-19T21:55:00.000-08:00

Our little sweethearts got to participate in a children's nativity scene tonight. They were so adorable and happy. Afterwards, they got to do crafts and have hot cocoa and sweets. When we got in the car to come home, Iris said she wanted to be an angel again. If you ask me, she already is!

Fab Find Friday: Alternative Door Wreath

2011-12-16T20:39:00.000-08:00

I saw this door wreath on Pinterest and had to make my own. It didn't cost me a thing because I had all of the supplies laying around the house. I'm pretty pleased with how it turned out and love that it is not a wreath at all. A well dressed door is really welcoming, especially at Christmas. Do you all make wreaths for your front door?

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Proud Mary

2011-12-14T19:22:00.000-08:00

Iris, crying: "I want to wear Tinkerbelle."
Me: "No, Iris you are not in Lilly's play."
Lilly: "Aw, Mom, just let her."

Oh holy night...

We wish you a Merry Christmas...

"I see Lilly."

The only girl lucky enough to have 6 grandparents in the audience.

Last year, when Lilly was Raggedy Ann in the toy parade part of her Christmas play, she told me that she really wanted to be Mary. So when she came home from school this year, and told us she was chosen to be Mary, she was so excited, I couldn't help tearing up. She immediately called all her grandparents to tell them the good news. She's been singing songs and practicing for weeks now, and even asked us if she would get to hold a real baby.
The night of the play(last night), she was pretty serious. I was so proud of how much Lilly has matured. (In her 1st preschool play, she flashed her undies)! Iris could not take her eyes off of her sister, and I can hardly believe this is her last year in preschool.
After the play, we had everyone over for dessert. The girls were in heaven and got to stay up way past their bed time. At 3am, Lilly woke up crying because her ear hurt. She missed school today, went to the doctor's office, and is now on antibiotics and albuterol. What a blessing that this did not come on one day sooner and she did not miss the play she was so looking forward to. God really knows what's important to a five year old!

Misc. Monday: Happy Birthday, Birthday Boy!

2011-12-12T10:50:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, we celebrated Dan's birthday by kidnapping him after church and driving down to Lake Forest for breakfast. Dan loves the Bagel Shack, so he was super excited and the girls loved the blindfold her had to wear. They let Daddy pick the music on the drive, were super well-behaved, and kept telling him, "Happy birthday, birthday boy!" It was so cute.
When we got home, Dan got some alone time while we baked him a special peach cobbler (per his request). In the afternoon, we went to a Christmas celebration with the Givens family, ordered ribs, sang and ate dessert with Grammy and Papa.
Dan, I love you more than words can explain and look forward to many more birthdays with you! xxoo, m

Sew Crafty Saturday: Joy To The World!

2011-12-10T15:06:00.000-08:00

Fab Find Friday: Easy - Festive Garland

2011-12-09T15:49:00.000-08:00

I saw this idea on Pinterest of course, and had to do it! I got the pom poms for $3 using a 50% off coupon at Michaels, and sewed the strand together while I was waiting an hour for my blood glucose test. It is a cute, fun, quick, little project that packs a cheery punch!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Jolly Ol' St. Nick

2011-12-07T17:41:00.000-08:00

Can you guess why I'm in the Santa picture this year? That's right, Iris screamed a blood curdling scream every time I tried to sit her next to the poor guy! She is such a Mommy's girl. I have to say, I don't really mind though.

Lilly, our vigilante for Jesus, as we like to call her, likes to remind us that, "Santa is not as important as Jesus." She has all the faith in the world in her Lord and Savior, but told me that "Santa is just a guy in a costume like the characters at Disneyland, Mom." I really can't argue with the girl when she is right! But she did agree to keep this news to herself. Silly girl!

Misc. Monday: It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like...

2011-12-05T17:33:00.000-08:00

This weekend... Buddy, our elf, arrived. The tree, stockings, advent calendar, house lights, and decorations were put up. We took pictures with Santa at Disneyland, started reading about Jesus' birth, watched Rudolph, sang carols, & drove around and looked at Christmas lights. What fun!

Fabulous Friday: FIVE!

2011-12-02T20:32:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Lilly turned 5. Dan & I celebrated with her before going to work.

G.ma, Grammy, Papa, & Iris got to take her preschool class treats.

She said she felt very special.

Birthday girl chase.

Birthday dinner request = carne asada.
Birthday dinner guests = family.
Special gifts = grateful girl.

4th time blowing out a candle!

Dad's birthday interview.

Dan says I really know how to stretch out a birthday. Can you blame me? Just look at her face. Joy! Pure joy! I can not believe our first born is five years old. Lilly, you amaze us every day. We love you so so much!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Rainbow Party Time

2011-11-30T16:34:00.000-08:00

Good times were had by all, especially the birthday girl!

Misc. Monday: Rainbow Party Part 1

2011-11-28T17:11:00.000-08:00

Die cut card stock to make the garland & sewed flowers together.

The ever changing console table.

Snacks + pizza.

Add a marble to the balloons before you blow them up and they do not fly around.

$ Tree wrapping paper for table runner.

Grandma, the famous cake/cupcake maker.

Can you believe these colors?

Crafts.

Rainbow Dot Art.

Happy birthday girl.

Wonderful friends and family.

Warm weather.

Perfect day!

Here's the decor and cake.

Kids and Presents to come Wednesday.

Fabulous Friday: Family

2011-11-25T15:00:00.000-08:00

Blessing bags for the homeless

Yummy food +
Happy kids +
Grateful hearts+
Loving others=
Perfect day!
Jesus said, " Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. ...Love your neighbor as yourself." Matthew 22:37 & 39

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Getting Closer...

2011-11-23T20:58:00.000-08:00

Card stock. Scissors. Glue Dots. Brads. A Printer. Paper. Felt. You don't have to spend a lot of $ to have an adorable party, just a little time. Lilly is beyond excited for her special day. We can't wait to share it with you!

Misc. Monday: Blessed

2011-11-21T07:15:00.000-08:00

We have been so blessed this year! The girls are happily learning and loving Jesus. Our baby boy is growing and kicking up a storm, and Dan and I still enjoy each others company. ;) Our families bless us with occasional meals every once in awhile and show up with super cute clothes for the girls. I think they know we are trying to save so I can work 3 days next year, but I don't think they realize how much these little surprises are really appreciated. Our loved ones forgive my "foot in mouth" syndrome, Dan's quirkiness, and our noisy brood. We are beyond grateful for their acceptance and love.
The other night when Lilly was laying in bed trying to fall asleep, she called out, "Mama, when you make our Christmas skirts this year, make sure they have crosses on them because Christmas is not about toys, it's about Jesus!"
Seriously. What more can I ask for? Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving. We love you!

Sew Crafty Saturday: Rainbow Party Mode

2011-11-19T20:07:00.000-08:00

Found the "beyond wonderland" font at http://www.dafont.com/ and the little cloud printable at http://www.paperglitter.com/. There's an entire free rainbow party printable kit there. The cloud is supposed to be a cupcake topper, and there are some hats, water bottle labels, and different invitations in the kit. I didn't use much of it, but it's a great resource!

I plan on using these little goodies as an inexpensive garland.
Dan's got a lot of blowing to do!

I always make a birthday themed wreath for the front door ...this one is partially done. I made my own water bottle
labels using that cool new font I downloaded. The babies are getting the bubble candy favors,
while the big kids are getting the wikki stix with rainbow candy.

I decided to go with a different shape for the birthday banners besides the trusty triangles I always use. It was super easy to make. I used a paper cutter to make the rectangles, folded one in half, cut a slit from corner to middle,
and used that one as a template for the rest.

We celebrated my niece turning 2 today, and my sister did a wonderful job planning her “Olivia” party. It got me thinking that with only one week away, I have a lot to do for Lilly’s 5th birthday party next week.

Lilly is very particular in her old age, and asked me for a rainbow party with a face painter. I asked her if she wanted to go somewhere this year, but she was not interested in the least. The girl knows what she likes!
She settled on the rainbow theme while at Disneyland. When she was younger she would pitch a fit if she didn’t get the pink caterpillar on the Alice and Wonderland ride. A few months later while we were in line, she said, “I don’t care what color I get anymore. The rainbow is my favorite color.” So mature, right? About a week later, she informed me that her birthday party would be rainbows this year. Sounded great to me, especially after I did a little search and found tons of pictures and ideas. Better stop typing and get to work!

Misc. Monday: Happy Day Project Wrap-Up

2011-11-14T09:09:00.000-08:00

Sunday was the last day of The Happy Day Project and although we did not participate in all the activities. What we did do, felt great. Thursday was "give a book to a friend" and I know just who is getting what book. Also, The Joyful Life Library Project was shared. Through this charity we were able to sent three books to CHOC hospital. I can not begin the imagine what those kids and their parents are going through. I could barely stand being in the hospital for 6 days with Iris last winter. When we were there, we read a ton of donated books and watched donated VHS tapes. They were such a blessing to us!

All images are from Joy's Hope.
Julie saved me a lot of time taking pics this week. ;)

We are finishing off with buying gifts of compassion with our life group at our annual after Thanksgiving meal. We just got our catalog in the mail and there are so many wonderful options you can do to help others, starting at only $5! Our family will be putting together blessing bags for the homeless on Thanksgiving day. We feel so blessed to be given the opportunity to give back. There are many links provided here, why don't you check out one or two?

Wee-Ones Wednesday: The Happy Day Project

2011-11-09T18:59:00.000-08:00

We are continuing with The Happy Day Project this week. Yesterday, Julie challenged us to write letters the good old-fashioned way... with a pen. I sent a letter to my Grandma in Minnesota and Lilly wrote a nice note to her Grammy. It feels so good to do something that you know will make someone smile. I feel like I've been in a better mood all week. There are a few more letters I look forward to writing... I appreciate being reminded that such a simple act can brighten someone's day.

Today's act of kindness is to carry some food gift cards in your car to pass out to the homeless people we so often see, but don't see at the same time. I really love this idea. I have no idea how or why a person is on the street, but I don't have to know why in order to show God's love. 1 John 3:18 says, "Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue, but with actions and in truth." It's one thing to feel bad about something, or to say how sad a situation is, but it means so much more when you do something about it. I go to Burger King every Friday with my grade level team (exciting, I know). This Friday, I plan on buying some gift cards to put in my glove box, so I can do just that!

Visit Julie's blog and get some ideas on how you can brighten someone's day!

Misc. Monday: Project Snickerdoodle

2011-11-07T18:35:00.000-08:00

Julie from Joy's Hope has teamed up with her friend Jeannett to create The Happy Day Project. It consists of doing something nice for someone else for 7 days. How cool is that? They are also providing some sweet printable art, so you give a little and get a little.
Today, we baked some easy snickerdoodle cookies for some neighbors.
They are super easy to make:

1 box of Super Moist vanilla cake mix
1 egg
1/2 cup butter (1 stick) melted
1 tbs Cinnamon
2 tbs Sugar
Mix first 3 ingredients with wooden spoon.
Mix cinnamon in sugar in little bowl.
Roll dough into 1 in. balls.
Roll balls through cinnamon sugar mixture.
Place 2 inches apart on cookie sheet.
Bake at 350 for 10-12 minutes.
Taaaa-Daaa!
Now go be a good neighbor and check out Julie's blog to see what else you can do for someone this week!
Smiles,
Michelle

Free Fabulous Find Friday: 3D Ultrasound

2011-11-04T19:55:00.000-07:00

I have the best find for any pregnant mom out there (if you live in Orange County, CA, that is)! Samsung Medison America trains techs on using their 3D ultra sound machines and always need mommies-to-be to volunteer. Just call 714.889.SONO and leave your name, phone number, & due date and they will call you back. I'm not getting anything for sharing this info; I just think it is one of the best free opportunties I've stumbled upon.
I did it with both Lilly and new baby boy (sorry Iris). It is incredible. It takes awhile, but who doesn't want to watch their precious cargo in utero? You get to leave with a ton of pics, but the most amazing part is just watching the baby move in real time. Our little guy was sucking his thumb, stretching, kicking, smiling, flipping around, and playing with his boy parts. I could have stayed there all day... seriously!

Wee- Ones Wednesday: Trick or Treat, Please!

2011-11-02T17:00:00.000-07:00

Halloween was a blast this year! Iris was a trick or treating maniac. She "meowed" at every door and woke up the next morning asking if "We go trick or treat today?" She was very disappointed to discover it is a once a year activity. Lilly (smarty pants that she is) took Pasquel, from the movie Tangled with her, and had him trick or treat too! She even had a little bag for him to put his candy in. Genius! Their faces when we got home and checked their candy were priceless.

Misc. Monday: Toddler Craft Date

2011-10-31T13:16:00.000-07:00

Most of you know, I'm off Mondays and I usually get to spend time with both girls. But today, Lilly got invited to a special Halloween party at her preschool, so I decided to have a little Halloween play date for Iris. Her cousin Sophia & her two best friends, Adam and Mia came. I made some little pretzel ghosts that I saw at eighteen25, set out some coloring place mats from the dollar section at Target, and we made ghosts from their precious, tiny feet. It was so much fun! Now it's time to rest up for the big night ahead. Have a happy and safe Halloween!

Sew Crafty Sunday: Pumpkin-palooza

2011-10-30T19:14:00.000-07:00

Eggs & chorizo, crepes with fruit, banana pudding & whipped cream, danishes, chocolate chip banana bread, and cheesy potatoes. Oh my!

How do you get your kids to look and smile at the camera at the same time?

Christian had the genius idea of using a dry erase marker to draw the design. Brilliant!

This is the 1st year since Lilly was a baby that she would even touch the stuff!

"I do it myself, Mama."

This year, Amy brought paint. I love love and Lilly apparently loves California. I don't know where she comes up with this stuff! The carved pumpkins are an ode to the girls' costumes this year: Rapunzel for Lilly & kitty cat for Iris.

Today after church, we had friends over for brunch and pumpkin carving. The food was delicious, and the pumpkins adorable. We can't wait for tomorrow!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: At the Patch

2011-10-26T17:13:00.000-07:00

This was last year. I love that Iris is now trying to keep up!

I could not let October pass by without sharing some pictures of our trip to the pumpkin patch this year. We went with 5 other families. It was crowded and hot, but was such a good time. I cherish these traditions and memories and realize just how fast the time goes.

Misc. Monday: Just Perfect

2011-10-24T09:07:00.000-07:00

These small moments of perfection make it all worth it.

I love these little ladies. Alot.

Sew Crafty Saturday: It's Coming Along

2011-10-22T13:51:00.000-07:00

The front yard has been getting a make over for quite some time now, so I thought I'd give you an update with some pictures. We put in many flowering plants that are said to attract butterflies and humming birds. The girls love to sit in their little chairs and touch the fountain. They even throw pennies into it. Sorry, Dad. We still want to put an old ladder by the window hung on the gate and I'd love to get my hands on an old bicycle and use its flower basket as a permanent planter. Any one have a bike they are throwing out?

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Growing Up

2011-10-19T20:29:00.000-07:00

The big girl got a hair cut. She looks beautiful, and so grown up. Too grown up! Where did my baby go?

Misc. Monday: Little Lipstick Lady

2011-10-17T09:27:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when I try to clean out our bathroom drawers, while expecting Nick Jr. to babysit my kids. I think we are going to be late to Disneyland this morning, and now I need to go to the MAC counter.
As you can clearly see, she does not like being called naughty. I suppose it was not entirely her fault... poor kid. Gotta love her!

Sew Crafty Saturday: Baby Boy Nursery

2011-10-15T16:04:00.000-07:00

The new little guy is going to be moving into Lilly’s room, and Lilly will be joining her little sister. Transforming Lilly’s room into a room suitable for a boy, while maintaining the mural I painted on the wall, has been on my mind a lot lately. Dan and Lilly are adamant that it does not get painted over! So the mural will stay, but instead of yellow walls, we will paint the walls the sky blue color found in the mural.

Thanks to my sister, I think I finally have a plan. Both girls have their own animals we have been collecting for them since they were babies. Their rooms are not “theme-y,” yet their chosen animal is displayed throughout. Lilly’s initials are LAM, so it was an easy choice. Vintage lambs adorn her room, while Iris’ room is filled with deer and fawns.

Here’s where my sweet sister fits in... She sent me a text just this morning saying, “I think the new baby’s animal should be a fox.” I hopped on Etsy and boy is she right! Just look at the wall decal that can be added to the base of the mural. There is tons of gorgeous wall art out there, and I’m even thinking of making the crib bedding myself. I think I can make a quilt with a giant fox appliqué on it, don’t you? Oh, I am beyond excited!! I can see it now. I can't wait to share both room's transformations with you all.
Thanks, Penny! Love you!!

*All fox images can be found on my Pinterest board "for the little guy."

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Our Little Guy

2011-10-12T19:25:00.000-07:00

I think we are all over the shock of us having a son/brother now. Dan and I were beyond surprised when the tech told us the baby was a boy. We thought all we knew how to make were girls! Of course, the grandpas are over the moon. Lilly, sweet Lilly, said she did not want a brother because “boys are yucky,” and Iris kept saying she’s the baby. She walked around saying, “Goo-goo ga-ga.”

This poor little guy doesn’t know what he is getting himself into! Some time has passed, and Lilly says she changed her mind; we can have a brother. Phew! Iris likes to say that she will make the baby “feel better when he’s dying (crying).”
I guess we have to go get some boy things… and you better believe this little guy will be wearing plaid like dad, but I’m also pretty sure he’ll be sleeping in pink pajamas when no one's looking!

Misc. Monday: We Have A Visitor!

2011-10-10T08:02:00.000-07:00

Hi! I'm Amy from The Mombot and I'm so happy to be guest posting here on Just Watching My Garden Grow! Michelle and I have known each other for quite some time now, and we're even neighbors. Over the years we've shared our love of crafting, even hosting our own craft boutiques. So I am thrilled to be sharing a crafty tutorial for a crayon roll that I came up with here today.

I had seen several crayon aprons for little girls online (and even made one for one of Michelle's girls!), but one day I morphed the idea into something else. I came up with this “crayon roll” that can roll up into itself, or around a coloring book. It was made for a toddler - someone who doesn't mind only having 7 crayons, and needs a place to stick them so momma knows if one's missing! I like to whip up a couple at a time and keep them for gifts.
Here's a simple tutorial; once you do one, you'll find they go rather quickly.

Crayon Roll How-To:

1. Cut out 5 pieces:
2 rectangles 4 1/2” x 8”
1 rectangle 3 1/4” x 8”
2 long rectangles for the straps 1 1/2” x 28”

2. Place the 2 strap pieces right side together and sew down each of the 28” sides. Turn right side out and finish the ends. I usually just fold them over twice so the raw edge is hidden and sew.

3. Finish one 8” side of your 3 1/4” x 8” rectangle by folding over 1/4”, then another 1/4” and stitching. Place this rectangle on top of one of the 4 1/2” x 8” rectangles so that both right sides of the fabric are facing up and the sides and bottoms line up. Using a basting stitch (wide stitch), sew these pieces together close to the edge.

4. Now you're going to sew the dividers for the crayons. On top of the smaller rectangle, measure and mark in 1” increments (this will create 7 dividers for your crayons). Sew from the top of the small rectangle to the bottom, attaching it to the larger rectangle underneath.

5. Take your finished strap and fold in half lengthwise to find the center. Sew the center of the strap to the center of the other 4 1/2” x 8” rectangle.

6. Now you'll need to pin your straps down, keeping clear of the edges (you'll be sewing around these edges in a minute and don't want your straps to get caught in the seams. I weave them back and forth to fit and use one pin to secure.

7. Place the rectangle with the pinned straps on top of the other rectangle with the crayon dividers, right sides together. Try and smooth it out since there's some bulk from the pinned straps, and pin the outer edges together. Sew around the edges with a 1/4” seam, leaving a 2” opening so you can turn it right side out.

8. Turn right side out, and close opening. Iron flat. Place your crayons inside, and you're ready to go!

I hope it all made sense! Thanks for letting me guest post, Michelle!

Sew Crafty Saturday: Boo To You!

2011-10-08T17:27:00.000-07:00

I've missed a few posts this week. I don't know where the time has gone. I'm asleep by 8 almost every night and can't seem to catch up on daily responsibilities. I'm really hoping I am just super tired because I'm pregnant and have a challenging class this year, otherwise I'm doomed when the little guy gets here. I stay busy all day, but the moment I sit down, I seem unable to get back up again!

Today was spent boo-ifying our house, along with a trip to the grocery store, laundry, dance class, putting away a week's worth of toys, taking the recycling in, and Home Depot among other things. I am worn out. Luckily, some friends invited us over for dinner, so I don't have to cook. Whoohoo. Here's a few pictures of the console table and the porch. I got the green boas and glittery pumpkins from the Dollar Tree and decided to make garland out of them, and the girls helped Dan hang spider webs and jack'o'lanterns from the bushes. Super fun! ;)

Misc. Monday: Guest Post

2011-10-03T08:36:00.000-07:00

I am very honored that my good friend, Amy, asked me to guest post on her fabulous blog The Mombot. I got a chance to share a tutorial about how I created my baby gender reveal. Amy's blog is full of useful money saving tips, yummy recipes, crafts, and fashion ideas. So go on over and tell her I said, "Hello!"

Sew Crafty Saturday: Ta-Daaaaaa!

2011-10-01T09:07:00.000-07:00

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Let The Good Times Roll

2011-09-28T18:42:00.000-07:00

Bowling was quite an adventure for the wee-ones. Iris was determined to do it herself. It took at least three minutes for her ball to make it down the lane, I'm not lying! I told the girls to blow on the ball to make it go faster. I'm pretty sure they think blowing your ball down the lane is part of the game. Whoops! Can't wait for them to go with someone else. Lilly and Quentin did really well. Thank the Lord for bumpers, otherwise there might have been tears.

Misc. Monday: A Little Blog Sugar

2011-09-26T18:48:00.000-07:00

Blog Sugar was so much fun! It was refreshing to hear women who love Jesus talk candidly about how He has changed their lives, and inspire us to use our words and creativity to glorify Him. The decor was adorable, happy pink & orange. The dinner was yummy and the desserts, oh, the desserts. I really should have taken a picture because I had one of each... amazing!
I was brave enough to introduce myself to Julie whom I adore, and got to ask Jeannette what happened to baby Cliff (a sweet boy with Down's Syndrome who I donated $ to awhile back so he could find adoptive parents). They were both so kind and genuine and didn't make me feel silly at all.
A portion of the proceeds went to LOVE146, a charity that helps prevents child sex trafficking and offers aftercare for young girls. My heart just breaks for the injustices and hurt that takes place in the world. It is really unfathomable. I read through their website today, and felt honored to make a donation and tell you about their mission. Please visit their cause and see the amazing things they are doing.

http://www.love146.org/

Sew Crafty Saturday: Cards???

2011-09-24T15:41:00.000-07:00

I used plain shipping tags from Staples, fabric tape, and my printer.

Cute?

My name and my blog. How simple are they?

Tomorrow, I am going to Blog Sugar with two of my great friends, Amy and Heather. I don't know what to expect, but I'm really excited about it! It's a faith based conference put on by bloggers for bloggers. The "break out sessions" sound really fun. I'm particularly interested in the photography one I signed up for (I'm not very good), and I can't wait to hear Julie from Joy's Hope speak (she's one of the reasons I wanted to go). I wrote about my love for her a very long time ago. I don't even know her, but she really is an inspiration. Coincidentally, an old friend of mine from high school that I lost touch will be there too (I randomly saw her photo on a blog I frequent. How cool is that?), as well as cupcakes, so it should be a great night!
It was suggested to us to bring business cards to make friends and connect with other bloggers. Really? My blog is just a little thing. Amy's Mombot blog is on the road to becoming a tiny business, but if you are reading this, you know mine is... well, not. ;)Being a girl who follows directions though, I decided to make some little cards (just in case anyone asks), but that I don't feel obligated to pass out. They are really tags. That way if I'm too embarrassed to pass them out, I can use them for gifts or for our next craft fair. I wouldn't have made them if they couldn't be used for something else, you know! I'll tell you Monday if I used them or not and let you know how it went.

Fab Find Friday: Five

2011-09-23T19:08:00.000-07:00

I think I may start a collection of fives. I picked this one up at a vintage sale even before we took our 3+2=5 pictures, and I'm definitely in love! How many more can I get before it becomes obnoxious?

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Getting Along

2011-09-21T16:42:00.000-07:00

It just melts my heart to see the wee-ones getting along so well. I hope this beautiful moment is a sign of good things to come because these two don't know it yet, but they will be sharing a room very soon!

Misc. Monday: Ah, Pregnancy

2011-09-19T13:47:00.000-07:00

I've traded the occasional glass of wine for chocolate milk. Yummm... It's hard to believe that I'm 4 months pregnant already. It's gone by really fast. I don't have much time to focus on this pregnancy. Ha!
Last week, I felt the baby move for the first time. I thought it might be too early, but I looked online and the trusty web said it is not uncommon for multiple pregnancies because the woman's uterus is already "stretched out." Hmnn... I'm not sure how to take that, but feeling my babies has always been my favorite part. It's like a little secret you walk around with. I can't help smiling.
I've also been having some disturbing dreams about the baby's health. Maybe I'm too busy to worry when I'm awake, so my subconscious has decided to take over for me. As soon as I wake up, I say a little prayer and let those dreams go. Who needs them anyway?

Sew Crafty Saturday: This & That

2011-09-17T17:09:00.000-07:00

This is a baby rattle I made by embroidering the matryona pattern on to the fabric and cutting around the front and back piece. I stuffed it with fiber fill and added some jingle bells to make her rattle. You could do this with any image you like.

I made this for Dan for all his camping trips to the desert. Poor guy hasn't been away from us in awhile and definitely deserves some guy time. He's always asking me to make him something, so it was fun to see his smile!

I made this little pillow with scraps from to go with the circle quilt below.

Remember this?

Here's a few things I finished over the summer, but did not deem worthy enough to share. I'm having to pull from the archives here due to my recent lack of motivation. Ha! I am beginning to feel better though, so maybe I'll have something brand new next week.

Fab Friday: It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Halloween...

2011-09-16T20:03:00.000-07:00

Lilly would love this little cutie found at babalisme.

I can't decide between these bats...

or these bats!

I love the sophistication of this wreath for the front door.

I can't believe it's almost October. Everywhere I turn, I see super cute Halloween crafts and decoration ideas. We do not like the "spooky or scary" Halloween in our house. Both girls screamed at some skeleton/vampires displayed in Target last week, and Iris even started to cry. Some of the images out there are definitely nightmare inducing! There's a few front yard displays that I avoid driving by come October. Dead people coming out of your yard seems a bit extreme to me, but maybe that's because Lilly used to have really bad dreams. Anyway, here's a few sweeter things I'm thinking of putting up around our house. Just click on the links above and you can print all of this fun stuff!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Quality Time

2011-09-14T17:21:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, while Lilly was sleeping in, Iris and Dan got a little quality time in. Dan was playing the banjo and Iris ran out of our bedroom to get her Gabba Gabba guitar. She was so proud of herself, so I just had to run and get the camera! Seriously, how cute are they?

Sew Crafty Saturday: My Replacement

2011-09-10T08:18:00.000-07:00

It was her idea for me to take her picture. She was so excited to show me her crown!

Such a proud artist!

Lilly is standing under the rainbow and our dogs, Punkin and Bickel are under her feet.

I'm tired. I'm nauseous. It's all I can do right now to get through the work day with a smile on my face. Around 5pm, I'm pretty sick. I keep thinking that this has got to end soon. I'm almost 15 weeks already, for crying out loud! That being said, I have not felt very crafty and have not made anything since the girls' outfits for our little photo shoot. So, I'm sending in a replacement for today. Check out how crafty Lilly is with a piece of sidewalk chalk!

Fab Finds Friday: My Fave

2011-09-09T19:15:00.000-07:00

This printable bunting from Ruffled is one of my favorite finds in all of blogland. Every letter of the alphabet has a pretty background and a heart is used for any spaces. I have used it for birthday parties, and in the classroom. I kept it my little secret for ever a year now, but think it's time that I share it with you!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: First Day Joy!

2011-09-07T17:21:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love her pose?

Iris had to put on her little backpack too, and cried, "I want school, Mama" for over a half hour!

Check out her bruises!

The thumbs up is all her own.

Isn't she pretty?

Dan calls this her facebook profile pic.

She really loves her new teacher.

We celebrated her first day with pizza, cake, and some new school supplies. It was a perfect day!

Lilly has been "dying" for school to start (her words), so yesterday was a big day around here. I was so excited to be off work, so I could take her to school on her first day back. Lilly isn't the kind of kid who needs The Kissing Hand read to her. She woke up bright and early and was ready to go. I guess it's nice to know we don't have to worry about her being scared or shy!

Misc. Monday: Check Me Out!!

2011-09-05T17:38:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited. I just can't hide it. I'm about to... ok, maybe not, but check out my new car! It's so beautiful and fancy. I feel like a princess. It has heated leather seats, a sunroof, and a woman who tells me where to go (in a nice way, of course)! The best part is Dan took care of the whole thing while I stayed home with the girls. Swoon. ;)
I bought my CRV (cute recreational vehicle) before Dan and I got married, and she just could not keep up with our growing family. We were sad to say good bye, but her big sis, the Pilot, is amazing!

Just A Fabulous Friday!

2011-09-02T17:44:00.000-07:00

I know I usually share a fab find with you on Friday, but I really want to "talk" about our little announcement yesterday. We are so excited! The possibility of this baby was discussed for a long time, way more than the first two. Having two kids seemed like a no brainer to us, but throwing a third into the mix definitely took some thought. We always wanted to have a big family, but with two girls, I had fears of the drama another girl might bring. I am a girl, so I know how hormonal/emotional we can be and how hard we typically are on our mothers. I know the day will come when my girls think I am completely out of touch and clueless. I always loved the idea of a son who thought I was the best, and Dan didn't know anything at all. ;)
But now we get asked if we are trying for a boy; some family members have innocently said they were praying for a boy, or people just talk about the possibility of a boy... and I have begun to feel badly for my possible, new little girl. My maternal instincts are so strong at the moment that I feel like I could have six daughters and we would be just fine! All of a sudden, I'm not worrying about the day when my girls think I don't "get it." I'm celebrating the fact that they will come to me when they are heart broken, want to share good news, or just want to go shopping. So for now I call the baby "she" because whoever the Lord decides to send our way will be just perfect!
P.S. Did you like the girls' outfits for the photo shoot? Those were the ones I made last week! Also, thank you Amy for taking our pics 2 hours before you left for your vacation. You're a great friend!!

Now We Are Five...

2011-09-01T19:09:00.000-07:00

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Hot Hot Heat!

2011-08-31T09:39:00.000-07:00

Boy, was it hot last weekend. This is what happened when the girls helped Dan give the dogs a bath. I think everyone was just a little happier after!

Sew Crafty Saturday: Sweet Skirts

2011-08-27T16:38:00.000-07:00

New outfits to be modeled soon...

Fabulous Find Friday: Pick Your Plum

2011-08-26T15:46:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Pick Your Plum? It's like Groupon but for crafters. I already made my first purchase this week. They have amazing deals on supplies and crafty goodies. I have to thank my friend Lisa for this fabulous find. You can sign up by going to their website above and clicking on "Who We Are." I love it, and so will you! You're welcome!

Misc. Monday: First Day Back

2011-08-22T19:55:00.000-07:00

My first day of kindergarten was great! Karen and I have a very lively bunch. ;) That said, I was pretty exhausted when I got home and decided to visit the Internet to decompress a bit. I guess I should have known a quiet house can never be good because sweet Iris walked up to me and proudly said, "Mama, I got a stamp all by myself." That she did! So much for taking it easy, maybe tomorrow...

Sew Crafty Saturday: Back to School

2011-08-20T14:52:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed that I missed a few postings lately? Last week was crazy! I'm back at work, bringing class stuff home to do, while trying to get some laundry done, pick up, and spend time with my family. Phew! I forgot how hard it is to be a working mom. That said, I spent this morning making french toast & little gifts for friends, reading, and changing out the console table. It's been a nice, quiet Saturday and we couldn't be happier!

*All the printables can be found on my pinterest boards.

Misc. Monday: So Long, Summer!

2011-08-15T18:20:00.000-07:00

It was a wonderful summer.
Can't believe I go back to work tomorrow.
I will sure miss these faces!

Sew Crafty Saturday: Like New

2011-08-13T18:54:00.000-07:00

We reupholstered these chairs last summer.
It's surprising how dirty something can get in a year.
Good thing we bought a pneumatic staple gun.
Sure we (Dan) will have to do it again next summer. Till then, I will enjoy the fresh, newness of blue...

Fabulous Find Friday: Read On!

2011-08-12T16:36:00.000-07:00

found at simple as that.

Oh my! Lilly can't read yet, but when she can, I am so printing out this reading log. It is about the cutest thing I've stumbled across in the blogging world in awhile. Seriously!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: She Did It!

2011-08-10T10:33:00.000-07:00

We needed to do it. We put it off all summer. So the same day I finished my quilt, we told Iris the pacifier fairy was coming to take her wubby (as she likes to call it) away to give it to all the new babies. She is a big girl now. Hooray! Oh, there were tears. She said she was a baby. She said the fairy "not have it." We told her the fairy would leave her a new toy for being such a brave girl. She was quiet for a moment, then "o-tay." She was in. It's been four days. She still talks about the fairy, but does not ask for her wubby. How I love her!

Sew Crafty Saturday: I Did It!

2011-08-06T17:43:00.000-07:00

With one week of summer left, I finished the quilt today, using the bright pink color that most of you liked the best. I seem to average a quilt a summer. There are flaws all over it, but I think they make me love it even more. I was inspired by this mini quilt I saw over at Purl Bee, but mine is lap size. What would I do with a mini quilt? Now I can't wait for winter, so I can curl up under my new quilt with a good book. Oh, I feel so proud!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: You Tell Me

2011-08-03T10:18:00.000-07:00

A month ago Iris was all about the potty. Every time Lilly went, she wanted to go. She was so interested, I wound up taking out the training one way before I was planning to. She went both #1 and #2, and seemed to get it. Fast forward to two weeks ago, and Iris refuses to go on the potty. When I ask her why, she says, "I'm scared." Really? What's that all about? She's not even two and half, so I know there's lots of time. I just don't get why her attitude changed so drastically...who knows?

Sew Crafty Saturday: Before & After Again

2011-07-30T15:20:00.000-07:00

before

after

art can be found on my Pinterest board

family banner

hope the Polaroid frames keep me organized

We added the cork and rulers to our pantry wall over a year ago. It looked nice in the beginning, but over time it started to look like a junk drawer, so I decided a little spruce up was in order. I changed the banner, added some art, and a space for each family member. Dan got me these neat Umbra Polaroid frames for Mother's Day and I think they are the perfect label for every one's little section. I feel so organized. Let's just hope I can keep it looking tidy for a little while longer this time.

Fabulous Find Friday: Good Deeds, Please

2011-07-29T10:49:00.000-07:00

Do you remember Lilly's marble jar? We loved it and it worked well, but like anything, over time it got put away and forgotten about. Recently, I stumbled across these good deed cards over at eighteen25. I love the simplicity of a punch card and consider these a very fabulous find. Lilly wrote her own name on her card and earned her first punch by letting her sister go first without any prompting, now that's a good deed!
I'm even planning on using these with my kindergartners in the fall, so head on over there and print some out for the little sweethearts in your life.

Wee Ones Wednesday: Palm Springs

2011-07-27T21:19:00.000-07:00

The girls could not get enough of this slide, even Iris went down by herself!

Right after this picture was taken, Iris got some water wings and told us, "I do it!"

Don't laugh, but Lilly slept in the closet. We put some chair cushions on the floor, covered them with sheets, and she was in heaven.

This car was the coolest thing in the museum. The volunteer told us that they wash it every 6 months.

Iris was the sweetest little chef.

This rope maze was pretty neat. The kids hooked on to one rope and had to go over and under to get to the other side.

Last week, we went to Palm Springs with my parents. I was a little worried about the heat, but with sunscreen and a pool near by, I had nothing to fear. We could hardly get the girls out of the pool and went twice a day. We also visited the Children's Discovery Museum of the desert. It had a lot to offer, but I have to say that painting on the VW bug was the best part. My sister and her family came down about half way through our little vacation. The cousins had so much fun being together, I didn't even notice until I got home that I didn't have any pictures of them playing together. I suppose I was too busy enjoying the moment!

Misc. Monday: Date Night

2011-07-25T11:06:00.000-07:00

I just realized that my last few posts have been little endorsements. I can't help it; I have to share my favorites with you or else I feel like I'm holding out! Saturday night, I got to take my man and our close friends out to Pechanga to see the Avett Brothers. Do you know them? You should! They are so much fun and they love to sing about love. Lilly and Iris both have sing along favorites, and I'm sure you would too.

Fab Find Friday: Waffle Love

2011-07-22T15:36:00.000-07:00

I don't usually blog about food, but I'm in love.
with a sandwich in a waffle.
not a sweet, breakfast waffle, but a crispy , light waffle.
the pull pork, 4 cheese, green eggs and ham, pastrami are amazing.
i cannot leave without devouring the lemon cream and berries.
I ate there twice last week.
I've taken 8 people there and they are now in love.
Bruxie has changed my life.
I thought you should know.

Misc. Monday: Aw, Summer!

2011-07-18T07:44:00.000-07:00

You didn't think we forgot the garden did you? It's definitely not as extensive as last year's, but we have had a playhouse to work on! I can't wait to make a caprese salad, and can you see how many strawberries are about to ripen up? Yum yum...
P.S. Can you believe that picture of Iris from last year? She was bald!

Fabulous Finds Friday: Right @ Home

2011-07-15T14:39:00.000-07:00

The frame originally came from Ikea. I love how the three photos look together!

Here's how it looks on the wall. The wall is actually a little alcove, so it's a discreet & perfect spot.

Since I was writing about family photos, I wanted to show you how the hall to our bedroom is adorned with the girls from year to year.

Our little computer desk is another way I am able to display photos. I love the clipboard because there is no commitment and I can change the pics easily.

I have a string of family and friends hung up on the chalkboard. It's inexpensive, cute, and can be updated at anytime.

I've had these photos for awhile and knew I wanted to group them together somehow. Large frames can be expensive and looking at thrift stores for something specific usually leaves me frustrated. You know how you can stumble across something amazing, but can never find exactly what you are looking for? Single 8x10s can look so small and lonely, and I don't have a bunch of family photos in small frames around the house.

I was sitting on the couch one night this week, and noticed a Paul Grimm print that was living in a perfect frame. It wasn't my favorite, so I asked the hubby if he would mind if I took it out for a while, and by the time he was out of the shower, I had my new picture hung. I was on such a roll that it never occurred to me to take a before picture. I love how the frame transformation turned out. I just stretched fabric over the wooden frame back and secured the photos to the fabric with glue dots and put it right back. My girlfriend stopped by the next day, noticed it right away, and said how great it looked, so I'd say it's a success (and it was free), now that's a fab find!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: More Summer Fun

2011-07-13T16:25:00.000-07:00

One of Lilly's favorite things to do is...

make her cousin laugh!

Here's a few pics of two more summertime fun times. These adventures happen to be with my little sis and sweet, baby Sophia. We just love spending time with them. I know I say it all the time, but man, these girls are growing up quickly.

One of our latest adventures was visiting Irvine Park. You have to pay to get in because it is a regional park, but their website is full of coupons for all of their fabulous activities, so it's not a big deal.We rode the train and went to the little zoo. Lilly asked me if she could ask the conductor if we could take a picture with him. I was so proud. Later, she asked me if she could feed a goat, only to chicken out after watching me do it. When Iris saw me getting slobbered on, she was all over it, "My turn!" Her laugh at that goat's slobbery kiss was infectious.

Next, we tried out Buccaneer Bay in La Mirada's Splash water park. I'm not a huge fan of water parks; I've spent too may summers taking kids there when I worked at a day care center. Floating hair and band aids gross me out! Yet, I found this one surprisingly clean, small, and organized. It seemed a little expensive to me for a city park, but it's no where near the cost of Raging Waters. The girls loved it. Penny's nieces were kind enough to come and play with the kiddos. We needed it because the girls can't swim yet. The little ones had to wear life jackets which I thought was weird at first, but then quickly appreciated. It's nice because there's things for kids of all ages to do.

Misc. Monday: Choo Choo Soul

2011-07-11T17:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we went to the La Mirada Theater for Performing Arts to see Choo Choo Soul live in concert. If you're not familiar with them, and I don't blame you, they play music videos between shows on Disney Jr. It's pretty fun, upbeat children's music. I particularly like their version of the ABCs. Anyhoo, it was one hour of fun that everyone could enjoy. Let me tell you, my girls have moves!

Sew Crafty Saturday: Summer Wreath

2011-07-09T17:28:00.000-07:00

This wreath, like many projects, was not planned. Dan went to see a band play, the girls were asleep, and I had just finished the book I was reading. So what's a girl to do? I had purchased the wreath form for something else, but it's from the Dollar Tree, so it's not like I can't get another.
I simply ripped some fabric and wrapped it around the wreath, cut circles of varying sizes with pinking shears to make flowers, and used scrapbook paper & letters for the welcome bunting.
I made a simple template for the pennants by folding a square of card stock twice, and then I drew a straight line from the right folded edge to the the bottom left corner. I'm only telling you this detail because I briefly searched online how to make pennants, and many of the tutorials involved a ruler and math, which was just way too much thinking so late at night! Once I was ready, I folded a scrapbook paper square in half along the top and traced the little template. I did wind up making two templates in order to achieve the size I wanted, but now I have two different sizes, so it was well worth it. A few buttons were added to the flowers, and viola! I used the glue gun for everything, so it went pretty quickly.

Fabulous Finds Friday: To Make or To Buy?

2011-07-08T07:56:00.000-07:00

I sometimes find it discouraging that it can be cheaper to just buy something, than to make it. This has been the summer of window coverings around here. I had the curtains in our bedroom from before I got married and they were long over due to get replaced. My plan all along was to make new ones, but after visiting some local fabric stores and shopping online, I was a bit bummed at the cost yardage was going to set me back. A few days later we were at Ikea, (so Lilly could have her favorite meatballs for lunch) and I walked by these beauties for $14.95 for two panels. That is a steal! I got two packages, replaced the ones over the sliding glass door (not pictured) and this little window too. I had to trim the curtains for the smaller window, and I now have some lace left over for crafting. How fun is that?
Since I was taking pics of the window, I thought I would show you a few other recent fabulous finds in our bedroom. I reorganized all my jewelry (hoping I would accessorize more often) after purchasing the pretty bird cage at Cost Plus. It was on sale for $19.99 and I had the $10 off $30 coupon, so I couldn't resist! I think the folding ruler is the most charming addition though, and she was only $4 at house 8810. I also got the Moda hankies over the window there too... I just had to get them in order to get free shipping, but I'd say it was a great purchase since I had no use for them when I originally put them in my shopping cart. Have you ever been to house 8810? It's another fabulous find. Everything in their store is so cute!!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Stars and Stripes

2011-07-06T20:31:00.000-07:00

I tried to get pictures of the girls in their pretty outfits, but before I knew it, they were in the water.

Iris and Adam sitting in a tree...

The four feathered friends

We even played a US history trivia game this year. Who knew 8th grade curriculum was so hard?

Pretty girl

Me, my sis, & Phia

This is the first time all kids ate at the same time at the same place!

Iris: " Baby Aubrey. She's cute."

Lilly could not wait to get her hands on a sparkler.

Iris took her one sparkler, screamed, and walked it straight to the bucket.

Right after this picture was taken, Iris took my face in her hand and told me, "Nigh nigh." She was done!

Uncle Brian really delivered this year. The fireworks were so much fun. Thank you, Uncle B!

We hope you had a super fun 4th. We sure did. I think this is our 5th or 6th year hosting. It's hard to believe we started before the kids were born. We missed some good friends and had a new, tiny one.

Misc. Monday: Happy Birthday, USA!

2011-07-04T06:56:00.000-07:00

“It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great Nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For that reason alone, people of other faiths have been afforded freedom of worship here.”
Patrick Henry

“I am a real Christian, that is to say, a disciple of the doctrines of Jesus. I have little doubt that our whole country will soon be rallied to the unity of our Creator and, I hope, to the pure doctrine of Jesus also.”
Thomas Jefferson

Sew Crafty Saturday: Playhouse Part 4 & Such

2011-07-02T12:53:00.000-07:00

The play house is officially finished! The deck has been built, the mailbox has been hung, plants have moved in, and the address is up. You can see the progression by visiting the previous posts: playhouse part 1, part 2, and part three. Part 2 is by far the cutest! This has become our favorite place to play. Lilly waters her pots daily and has her own little dust pan to sweep up. I am so glad we decided the put the chalkboard wall on the door. Can you see all the dust on the deck? The playhouse would have been such a mess if the chalkboard was inside.
I also wanted to share our new little, backyard seating area with you. This set is from Ikea. Dan cut down the legs of the table to make it more of a coffee table. We already have an outdoor dining area, and it didn't fit the space right when it was tall. I made the pillows out of oil cloth, and Dan found the pie plate for the little succulent center piece while I was looking at clothes at Anthropologie. He also bought me the vintage quail family at an estate sale. He is so good.

Fabulous Find Friday: $6.48

2011-07-01T20:04:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's because it's summer, or maybe it's because I'm crazy, but I decided to add one more day to my weekly blog schedule...so welcome to the first "Fabulous Finds Friday!"

I also made the shell wreath using plaster of paris.

I stumbled across this table cloth at Target on clearance for $6.48 and decided it needed to be new curtains for the guest/girls bathroom. I was planning on redoing them already because the old ones just weren't doing it for me anymore. At the same time, they totally match the little nooks I painted over spring break... and I got to make pillows and a table cloth for the front porch. All for $6.58 and in about an hour. Whoohoo!
P.S. I have no idea why Lilly's ballerina post from April showed up here, silly blogspot!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Our "Vallerina"

2011-07-01T16:59:00.000-07:00

Remember this? We are so proud of Lilly. She filled up her ballerina chart, and earned herself some dance lessons! Whoohoo. What's even more exciting is how proud she is of herself. I wrapped her reward chart, ballet shoes, tights, & leotard and gave her the box the night before her first dance class. She proudly counted up all the stickers and tried everything on. It was so sweet! The only bummer was Iris' reaction to not getting a present. Wow, I had no idea she would react with wailing and grabbing. Lilly kindly let her open the present and have the wrapping paper. Success!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Here, Fishy Fishy

2011-06-29T09:13:00.000-07:00

Last week, we took the little ladies to the Aquarium of the Pacific. It's not super huge, which is perfect for our attention spans. We were there for about two hours. The girls loved looking at the big fish and seals, did not really want to touch anything, and thought the concrete stairs in the outdoor amphitheater were just amazing! About halfway through, Lilly was on Dan's shoulders and decided to borrow Daddy's hat. She looked so cute, I think I better go get the girl a fedora. The girls are very well trained about asking for souvenirs, and think pressed pennies are very exciting. We are so blessed!

Misc. Monday: Pirate Love

2011-06-27T19:08:00.000-07:00

I mentioned awhile ago that our wonderful friends, Brian and Emy, renewed their wedding vows pirate style. It was beautiful and so much fun. Everyone looked amazing! The creativity of the costumes blew my mind. Dan and I made our outfits with clothes we found at a few local thrift stores. I love the way my hair clip turned out. I cut up a pirate toy from the Dollar Tree, along with some felt circles, and added some feathers, easy peasy.
I had the honor of making the bride's bouquet & the groom's boutonniere, and I got to walk the bride down the aisle. Dan officiated the ceremony with bits from the Princess Bride and some pirate vocabulary thrown in, and our friend Amy made some adorable photo props. Emy ordered the most delicious cupcakes and thought of every detail. We even played a pirate themed murder mystery game after dinner. I honestly can't remember when I've had more fun! All of the photos were taken by the talentedWill Parris.

Sew Crafty Saturday: God Bless the USA!

2011-06-25T18:07:00.000-07:00

America banner from At Second Street, steamers from Dollar store.

The ever changing console table. I hung up one of Lilly's old dresses too.

The subway art is from eighteen 25 and the land of the free is from i heart naptime. The patriotic Tootsie Rolls are from the Dollar Store. I love that place!

All this stuff is from last year, so I don't mind if it gets a bit of sun damage!

Little flags add so much.

This is the 6 foot table that my sweet hubby put up in our bedroom for me!

I spent the last week getting ready for our annual 4th of July BBQ and scrapbooking. I have decided that this will be the last scrapbook I do. Starting 2011, I will make digital family albums. (You may be thinking to yourself, "This is 2011," but I say that because I'm still on October 2010!) Whoo, it feels good getting that off my chest. I've gone back and fourth on this for awhile now, but realize that scrappin does not bring me the joy it used to. It's become an obligation and there are so many other creative things I want to do with the little extra time I have. Anyway, I was planning on writing about the decorating for the 4th, but you got a tangent on something else entirely. Thanks for listening, I mean reading. ;)

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Big Bear

2011-06-22T13:34:00.000-07:00

For our first mini vacation of the summer, we went to my parents condo in Big Bear. It was so much fun. The second day, Lilly asked me to make a list of all the things we wanted to do. Putting our feet in the lake and going to the candy store were on the top of the list. Iris decided to plunge in the lake head first, fully dressed and fully submerged. Poor Daddy had soggy shoes for the rest of the visit. The most exciting thing about this visit was that we finally got to go on the Alpine slides! I can't believe how much the girls have grown since last summer.

Misc. Monday: #1 Dad

2011-06-20T20:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, the Michael girls had the chance to honor and celebrate the most wonderful Dad we know. Lilly loves Daddy's tickles, singing, and riding on his shoulders. Iris loves running through Daddy's legs, hearing him sing, and cuddling on the couch. I adore watching the man I love do such a wonderful job loving the girls I love. We hope you had a fantastic Father's Day!