Writing Our Own Story

Valentine Subway Art

2012-02-01T17:32:00.002-07:00

Pinterest.... You've done it again!

You've got me addicted.

Addicted to free printables.

Here is a fun one for Valentines Day. I love Subway art, and have found lots of free printables on Pinterest. It makes it so easy to flip out sayings for each holiday/season.

Click HERE for the download. It's super easy to do. Download to your computer. Upload it to whatever site you order prints from, and pick it up next time your out. Place it in a lovely frame and display proudly.

Oh yes I did!!

2012-01-23T16:15:00.002-07:00

.... and it was well worth the 4 packages of cream cheese. Yes, I just said 4.

Don't worry I didn't eat it all myself, it was for a party.

THANK YOU PINTEREST!!

Get the recipe HERE

Round One...

2012-01-09T19:35:00.003-07:00

Tay VS. Table

Tay-0 Table-1

Day 1

Day 4

Good thing she has her STUNNA glasses to hide the bruise

Christmas Re-cap

2012-01-06T07:33:00.002-07:00

We've been busy round here.... hence the lack of blogging. Thought we'd share a few pics from Christmas though. Tay had so much fun! Of course she got spoiled rotten...

Her new kitchen set from Grandma and Grandpa

Opening her Princess tent

Daddy likes it just as much as she does!

Even though dad never got the boy he wanted, he still was able to buy a ball and bat.

It was so fun this year to watch her get so excited when she ripped all the paper off her wrapped presents. It made all the stress of holiday shopping worth it. We love this little lady SO MUCH!!

Christmas....tomorrow?

2011-12-24T13:47:00.006-07:00

The tree, the lights...

The garland, the presents....

isn't helping with this little one's impatience.

Where did this month go? I'm amazed that tomorrow is Christmas day. December has been a busy month for us, with work, family get-togethers, plus the hustle and bustle of the season! But one things for sure, this little lady is super excited for what's in store tomorrow!

Pretzel Hugs

2011-12-04T19:49:00.002-07:00

Need a super easy yet Delicious snack to much on? Well even if you say 'no'. You still have got to try these: SO GOOD!

You will need:

2 bags of Hershey's Hugs

1 pounder bag of pretzel snaps

Large Baking Sheet

Waxed paper for easy removal

Top each pretzel snap with one hug

Bake @ 350 degrees for 2 minutes.

Remove and place an additional snap on top of hug.

Refrigerate for faster cooling.

And Enjoy...

For the holidays try the peppermint kisses! They're devine! They make great neighbor treats too!!

Guess what I learned?

2011-12-01T11:42:00.001-07:00

How to pick my nose!

Mommy doesn't like the fact I know how to.

Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas

2011-11-14T15:59:00.002-07:00

EASY AND DANGEROUSLY DELICIOUS

Ingredients:

Marinade -

6 tablespoons honey

5 tablespoons lime juice (1 large lime)

1 tablespoons chili powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 pound chicken, cooked and shredded

8-10 flour tortillas (I used whole wheat tortillas)

1 pound monterey jack cheese, shredded

16 ounces green enchilada sauce

1 cup heavy cream

Directions:

1. Whisk the first four ingredients and toss with shredded chicken in a Zip-loc bag.

2. Let it marinate for at least a 1/2 hour, but preferably a half day or so.

3. Pour about 1/2 cup enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9X13 baking pan.

4. Fill the tortillas with chicken, saving marinade, and shredded cheese, saving about 1 cup of cheese to sprinkle on top of enchiladas.

5. Put tortillas in 9x13 pan as you go.

6. Mix the remaining enchilada sauce with the cream and leftover marinade (if there is any).

7. Pour sauce on top of the enchiladas.

8. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.

9. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes until brown and crispy on top.

Do it. Tonight.

Gratitude 101

2011-11-07T19:51:00.004-07:00

November. Thanksgiving. The month for being grateful for all that we have. But what about after November 30th?

I serve in the Young Womens organization at church and last week I had a young woman challenge us to start a gratitude journal. Each day writing one thing that we are grateful for. She told us about how it has affected her life, and completely changed her attitude about many things.

What she had to say really prompted me to step up to the challenge. That night when I got home, I started right away. I had so many things racing through my mind. Just writing one per night may be hard. I could write a book on it all. The first week of course started out with the following: My daughter, my husband, my parents, eternal families, my health, my home, my beliefs.

I think most peoples lists would all start off sounding similar to mine. But this got me to thinking. Do you realize exactly how truly blessed we are. We have so very much to be thankful for. The small things that we take for granted. Things like: clean drinking water, modern medicine, 5 working senses, electricity, a full pantry, shoes on my feet, a working car. And I never thought I would say a job. As much as I hate not being at home 24/7 with my baby. I truly am grateful for a job. It provides a sufficient income. My family and I are financially stable and able to do what we want and not be tied down.

So many things, I really could go on and on. But just this week, I have already noticed a difference in my attitude. I'm so glad I took this challenge and I hope I can keep it up. It also has helped me tremendously with ideas for my talk in church I've been asked to give in a couple weeks. Topic? Gratitude!

Wish me luck.

Family Pics 2011

2011-11-03T06:07:00.002-06:00

Halloween

2011-11-01T08:37:00.003-06:00

Hope you all had a FANTASTIC Halloween. This little lady did, thats for sure! Tay dressed up as a beautiful butterfly. We took her to a few homes around our neighborhood and she knew just what to do. She'd walk up to the door and hold her bucket up with both hands. Absolutely ADORABLE! Maybe next year she can actually eat all the candy!!

Daily thoughts

2011-10-20T11:06:00.004-06:00

While spending WAY too much time on Pinterest as usual, I came across a few quotes/sayings that I thought were both funny and cute, and thought I'd share them.

Ha, I thought this was pretty darn accurate:

These are some GREAT reminders:

And to answer the following, YES, Yes it would:

13 months

2011-10-18T22:06:00.003-06:00

Daddy got an ipad the other day and while playing around with it we snapped these photos! Little lady aint so little anymore!!

On a whim

2011-10-06T07:20:00.003-06:00

Things have been pretty busy lately. It always seems like whenever you have so many things on your 'to do' list... that your life is always too hectic to accomplish those things. Well one thing I've been meaning to do is to get our family pictures done. And yesterday I called up our photographer and BOOKED it! One problem. It's in 4 days. Do I know what we're wearing? Nope. Thank goodness for pinterest right?

I love grey and yellow. LOVE IT. So my first thought was something like this:

Then after I bought a really cute orange sweater, I'm thinking maybe fall colors would be better. Like so:

But then again, I'm not sure about that one either. Any ideas??

Little T's BIG party

2011-09-20T12:12:00.009-06:00

The pictures say it all!

Caught red handed heading to her bedroom!!

So excited for presents!

Mesmerized by the candle

Mmmmm!

Thanks to everyone who came and celebrated with us!! We had lots of fun!

To my sweet baby Tayvree

2011-09-16T22:07:00.009-06:00

1 year.

12 months.

365 days.

8765 hours.

525,948 minutes.

The amount of time you have been in my life thus far. And for each of these minutes...I'm eternally grateful for.

From that very moment when the nurse handed you to me, and you laid there crying on my chest. Your loud scream turning into a soft whimper and soon settling into a quiet purr. We connected, you and I. And an overwhelming feeling enveloped me. At that moment we formed a bond, a bond that would last forever.

I was so excited when we found out you were a girl. I would have loved you either way, but let me tell you... we've had lots of fun this past year playing dress up! The bows, the curls, the pinks, and the fancies. You truly are your mothers daughter.

You have been such a wonderful baby. You know, you really set the bar high. I expect all of your siblings to be as easy as you. From the minute we brought you home, you've been so content, easily entertained, so very healthy, and lets not forget the sleeping the whole night through since you were 2 months old.

Now, here you are. 12 months old. You went from a baby to an almost toddler right before my eyes. Your walking everywhere, you jibber jabber like you think we understand. You clearly know and comprehend so many things. You're momma's little smarty pants. You even know sign language for 'please', 'more', and 'thank you', and use them on a regular basis. You love puppies, especially your Remi. You bark, meow, and love to tell mommy and daddy what horsies and fish say. Ba ba (bottle), Momma, Dadda, and bum are among your vocabulary. You understand completely and point to eyes, nose, mouth, ears, hair, belly, and toes. You absolutely LOVE shopping. (Definitely a mom inherited trait). You like to sit in the shopping cart or your stroller and wave and blow kisses to every stranger that walks by. By the way, I hope that changes by the time you turn 16. It's only ok and innocent when your one.

You surprise me each and every day with new things you learn. And you seem to think you are just the coolest thing when you discover something new. And thats ok, because I think your pretty cool too! I hope you know I pray for you each and everyday, and when I'm away from you, your on my mind constantly. I just can't seem to grasp the concept of the rate your growing up. So many people have warned me to just enjoy every minute of it, because time will go by so fast. I'm realizing what it is they're talking about, and I AM CHERISHING every moment of it, I really am.

You absolutely love your daddy. You like to wrestle and have tickle wars with him. You love it when he chases you down the hallway and around the house. In fact, sometimes you try running too fast and your tiny feet get a head of you and you fall to the ground, but you never cry. You just laugh and continue trying to escape from him. But.... when it comes to settling down, you want your mommy. You love cuddling with me, and just being in my arms and giving me endless kisses. And if I could, in that moment freeze the world around us and just stare into those big blue eyes and give you kisses and loves, I would!

I've learned a lot this past year. And Tayvree, I'm trying oh so hard to be the very best mother I can be for you. You deserve the best! And I pray that I can do all the right things. I hope you can learn from me. I hope you can look to me as an example. And down the road when your all grown up, I hope you can always come to me with any problem. School, friends, boys (because we know boys are JUST that, a problem). Growing up isn't easy. I know, I've been there, but I hope we continue to have as strong of a relationship as we do now. Tay-I will ALWAYS be here for you. And even when I'm physically not. I'll always be watching over you. My mind doesn't even want to begin to think about there coming a day when I can't be with you. But when it does, I will ALWAYS, ALWAYS be watching over you. And thats my promise.

As you grow up, remember a few things for me: Be happy. Cherish your family and friends. Believe in yourself and know that anything is possible. Challenge yourself. Don't sweat the small things. Forgive and forget. Don't worry about what others think about you. Work hard. Be yourself. Be confident. Dance to your own song. Always tell those you care about most that you love them. Always be true to yourself. Dream, dream BIG. Avoid Contention. Think positive. Laugh lots. Remember the things you were taught. Always do your best. Resist temptation. Respect yourself, and others. Speak kindly. Tell the truth. Listen. Live simply. Give more. Expect Less. Be of service. Say your prayers. Choose the right. Read your scriptures. Attend the temple regularly. Find someone who brings out the best in you, and somewhere down the road, marry in the temple for time and all eternity. Remember you are a child of God, and He loves you. AND MOST IMPORTANT. Please.... ALWAYS tell your mother you love her. She needs to hear it.

Happy 1st Birthday little one,

I love you Tayvree.

Love,

Mom

This week

2011-09-11T19:01:00.002-06:00

Somebody has a birthday this week.

Invitations are out.

Planning is in process.

And little lady aint so little anymore.

Where did the past 12 months go?

Here's her adorable invite I had too much fun making...

front:

back:

Today

2011-09-01T18:47:00.001-06:00

Today... I learned that you have NO IDEA what the word "NO!" means.

*Sigh*.... someday....

Pretty Lady

2011-08-21T18:54:00.006-06:00

Oh I'm so glad she is mine, and I can kiss those irresistible cheeks whenever I want. I just love her! So I'm working on getting some invites made up for her birthday coming up here in a few weeks, so we had a fun little photo shoot today, and I got a few good shots that I just might use on the invites!

(I love the one where she is holding her finger up like she is one. ha ha)

Tu Tu Tutorial

2011-08-19T21:08:00.005-06:00

Say that one five times fast.....

If you really did, it makes me happy to know I'm not the only nerd who gave it a whirl. So thanks.

Anyway, so thank you YOU TUBE for the sweet tutorial on these easy things. T baby's FIRST BIRTHDAY is coming, up, and I have envisioned a wonderful ensemble for her pictures!! And THIS beauty makes it complete. Thought I would share a very simple 'how to' with you!

Buy your choice of colors of tulle in a 6"x25' roll. Depending on the height of your little one, cut strips of tulle into equal lengths. (For my little babe, I cut 24 strips that were 21" long).

I decided about every third one, I wanted to do a different color. So I cut only 8 additional ones in lime green.

Measure toddlers waist, and add an inch. Cut that amount of elastic. Hot glue ends together.

Secure your elastic around a round object. (On the tutorial I watched, they used a roll of paper towel, but since I was trying to entertain my little princess at the same time, I used the portable fan in her bedroom. Hence the child in the background.) Fold the tulle strip in half, an tie a slip knot around the elastic.

Continue the same process until the whole elastic is full.

2011-08-18T13:07:00.005-06:00

Seriously. Best. Thing. Ever. Oh my.... I'm completely hooked on this site. So in love! For those of you who don't know what it is. Check it out.

You're going to either:

ONE: Love me because I introduced you to it

TWO: Hate me, because you will become addicted.

I've been obsessing over it this past week while searching ideas for baby T's birthday. Thanks to PINTEREST I'm overwhelmed with awesome ideas, like these:

New Adventure

2011-08-14T20:02:00.008-06:00

About a month ago, I received a new church calling. I couldn't be any more excited about this one..... YOUNG WOMENS!! Mainly because it seems like just a few years ago, I was in YW. I really do NOT feel old enough to be a leader. REALLY? Anyway, a couple weeks ago was girls camp, and we had SUCH a GREAT time! Unfortunately I didn't snap more pictures, but we were just so busy having fun! It's been great getting to know the girls and it also helps that my friends are also leaders!

Me and my fellow leaders

Our "indian pow wow'

We did a ropes course, went canoeing, and had a blast on the zipline. I had to show the girls I may be a leader, but I' still know how to have fun! I look forward to all the the fun things in store for me and this new calling, and the blessings I know I will receive from it!

Miss T's 1st trip to the Zoo!

2011-08-03T10:28:00.010-06:00

A couple weeks ago we were visiting grandparents. Their neighbors have some bunnies and chickens. Grandpa suggested we take T over there to see them. Anxious to see her reaction, we ventured on over. SHE WAS IN HEAVEN! She was so enthralled in the little animals. So this struck the idea of taking her to the zoo. Our first thought was 'Well, maybe she's too young and we should wait til she's older.' But after seeing that big smile on her face, we knew we had to take her. We invited T's boyfriend Tate, and his mommy and daddy. We figured since it was a supervised date it would be completely fine. No harm right? Anyway, the two lovebirds had a BLAST!

The trip wore the two of them out! Here they are as we are leaving, with souvenirs and all!

Sinfully D-lish

2011-08-02T21:58:00.003-06:00

I'm a total fan of S'mores. I'm an even bigger fan of cookies. Combine the two and WHAT?? Oh my goodness, sign me up. As if these don't just LOOK amazing enough, they taste even better! In fact, I'm salivating just thinking about them. Do me a favor.... ya know how your not doing a whole lot this weekend? Maybe treat yourself to some of these. And trust me, the name says it all!! You'll be beggin for "S'MORE".

S'more Cookies

From The girl who ate everything.

Click link above for the recipe!!

Swing Swing

2011-07-29T09:30:00.001-06:00

Mr. Walker and I invested in a wonderful new swing. What better way to end a summer day than to sit as a family, relax, and just swing. We've loved it so far, and little Miss T loves it even more!!

Citrus

2011-07-27T16:35:00.003-06:00

Since we last chatted about my constant need for change, I've done it again. I redid my guest bath, also known as baby T's bathroom. I knew I wanted to do bright, and when I saw this shower curtain at BB&B, I KNEW I had to center my color scheme around it! It feels so summery and citrusy (if thats not a word, it is now!) Needless to say, I'm VERY pleased with how it turned out... or else I wouldn't be sharing it with you Silly!

(Tai Pan)

(Hobby Lobby)

It's the little things

2011-07-24T18:47:00.003-06:00

Her hair is finally long enough to do Piggys and I'm thrilled. It's the little things that make me happy.

I just love her!

Bathroom Revamp

2011-07-18T17:58:00.006-06:00

As many of you know, I can't stand one color scheme for too long. Call it a problem, call it an obsession, call it what you want. So here is the 3rd bathroom revamp for this particular bathroom in our house we've been in for only two years. Go ahead, call me crazy! I love the way it turned out though!

Found these awesome milk glass vases at D.I. $2.00 total! And the tin canister on the right, was a grey (also $1 at D.I) Add a little spray paint, and look! It matches!

Mr. Walker and his handyman skills installed a new sink fixture

Love this rod iron tree! Thank you Hobby Lobby

Repainted the walls-grey (even though they look blue in this lighting)

My come in handy everyday use jars, that are SO easy to interchange with different color schemes

So very happy with how it turned out.... until next year when I decide I need another change!

M.I.A.

2011-07-15T20:26:00.004-06:00

We've been busy lately. REAL busy.

Holidays....

playing with cousins...

and lots of daddy's ball games.

BUT... Momma's got lots to catch up on. So Stay tuned...

Easy DIY Project #2

2011-06-28T14:28:00.007-06:00

Thats two in a week! Pretty good for a working mom huh? This just came to me this morning as I was feeding baby T. As I walked to the garbage can to throw away her empty food containers, I had a brilliant idea. I go through lots of ziploc bags for her, with marshmellows in one, cereal puffs in another. So before I threw those containers away, I thought I would give this idea a whirl!! Now, since I MOD PODGE ANYTHING I CAN GET MY HANDS ON, I went to my craft room, pulled out my handy jar of mod podge, found a cute print of scrapbook paper and a nice little embellishment.

Ta Da! And there you go, a nice and handy on the run snack holder!

Easy DIY Project

2011-06-26T19:58:00.004-06:00

So Mr. Walker and I are in the process of re-doing one of our bathrooms. We have been in our house for only 2 years and this is the 3rd color scheme change already! I know, I know, I'm horrible, but I LOVE change! So we had this above the toilet cabinet, that I absolutely love, it has all the stuff I use on a daily basis. But it's always bugged me that you can see right through it. So when we decided to change the colors to green, and white, I found some coordinating scrapbook paper and VOILA!

(BTW... don't mind that the turquoise and black jars don't match. It's a work in progress)

I got the idea from an HGTV episode, in which a couple used those plastic dressers, so they used poster board to cover up the front so you couldn't see the mess within the dresser. Such an EASY, CHEAP fix!

P.S. New pics of the bathroom coming soon! Almost finished!

Letter to T

2011-06-23T14:08:00.008-06:00

Dear 9 month old Baby T,

Stop. Please, just stop growing. Your changing right before my eyes. Everyday that goes by you've learned something knew, or are doing something different! Where did my baby go? You're turning into a toddler. Not fair. At all. Last week you turned 9 months. The day before your 9 month mark, you crawled. And I'm embarrased to say I missed it. Mommy was at work, and grandma sent me a text message saying you crawled. I about lost it. But much to my surprise you were more than eager to show off later when I got home! Speaking of being on the move, your almost walking too. Thought you were gonna skip the whole crawling phase there for a while. A few things about you....

- You sleep awesome now! (Disregard that whiney post last week) Like the flick of a light switch you went from being up all night, to sleeping sound the whole night through.

- You love laying on your tummy. Whever I come to check on you, your fast asleep on your stomach, with your hands both under your head. Precious.

- You love being outside. Daddy takes you on walks daily since he has the summer off. You also go jogging with mom, and you LOVE going fast in the stroller.

- You're favorite songs are 'Twinkle Twinkle', 'I am a Child of God', and 'Rock-a-bye'.

- You're obsessed with marshmellows. Just can't get enough.

- If we give you your whole toy basket and sit you on your bedroom floor, your very content for an extremely long time. (Sometimes when mom has something she REALLY needs to get done, she uses this to her benefit.)

- When mommy has been at work for a long time, and she walks in the door, you often cry because your so excited to see me. Thats the only time we like to see you cry. It's cute.

- You say "Dadda" so well, and really know what it means". It kills mom you learned that one first.

- You wave at just about anything and everything.

- When somebody says "clap-a-hands" you do just that.

- You like to give high fives

- You make funny sniffling sounds with your nose and giggle about it, then wait for momma or dadda to do it in return. Silly goose.

I could go on forever, your such a perfect little angel, and Mommy and Daddy love you SO much. Always remember that. You've been such a blessing in our lives, I don't know what we would do without you. Mommy's heart breaks whenever I'm away from you. As you get older and become more independent, just remember you're never to big to give me LOTS and LOTS of loves, and you're still my blonde hair, blue eyed baby. MUAH!!

Love,

Mommy

3 years

2011-06-21T21:22:00.003-06:00

Sounds like a long time, but it has come and gone in the blink of an eye.

In 3 years we:

got married

worked our tails off

traveled much

played lots

studied hard

bought a home

found out we were expecting

WORKED EVEN HARDER

celebrated a masters graduation

brought a beautiful baby girl into this world

We've done a lot, and it's been fun. Looking forward to many wonderful years with THIS handsome man! Happy Anniversary to us! Love you babe

Daddy's Day

2011-06-18T14:12:00.003-06:00

Dear Daddy,

I love you so much! I picked out some things for you. First of all, I found this block I want you to put on your desk at work. Everybody will be able to see how great you are. You can think of me every time you look at it. And see that keychain? Whenever you pull your keys out of your pocket and head somewhere, you can think of me then too! Because I'm always thinking of you and how much I love you.

I love the way you make me smile,

and giggle too.

I love when you put me to bed at night,

softly singing 'Rock-a-bye'.

I love the way you say 'I'ma gunna get chya'

and chase me and momma around the house.

But most importantly I love the way you love me!

Oh yeah and here's some clothes too. Mom might have helped a little!!

Love,

Baby T

3 am

2011-06-15T05:51:00.002-06:00

Every night for the past 3 weeks I have DREADED,

ABSOULTE DREADED night time.

Because I know it means another night of no sleep,

Burning eyes, weak body, tired feet.

I can't count the times I walk up and down the hallway,

from my cozy bed to baby T's room.

The tucking and re-tucking her back in bed,

the tickling of the face until she falls asleep.

The humming of twinkle twinkle, and I am a child of God.

The nodding off to sleep as my head rest on her crib.

And when I think she's finally a goner,

I tip toe back down the hallway.

I climb into my comfy bed,

Listening to my hubby fast asleep.

And just when my eyes close and I drift away,

I'm awakened by a very fussy baby.

Back down the hall, into her room,

This time I've given up.

Forget the 'cry it out' method,

Forget what the 'Baby Wise' book said.

I scoop her perfect little body up in my arms.

And bring her to my room.

I hold her so close, her forehead buried in the crevice of my neck.

Her whimpering turns to a soft, steady breathing.

Her tiny little arms embrace me,

If she could talk I know she would say "Don't let go."

I press my nose to her head, inhaling her precious baby scent.

A kiss on the forehead, and a tight squeeze.

And then it hits me.

Before I know it, she won't want to be held.

She'll be all grown up, a big girl before I know it.

These are the moments I must cherish,

And I thank God for them.

New dress

2011-06-08T05:43:00.004-06:00

Reason # 328 why being a girl is fun....

We get to dress up... because we can!

Tissue Pom Poms and a Happy Birthday

2011-06-05T20:58:00.004-06:00

Many of you have probably seen these tissue paper pom poms! They are pretty popular right now, and SO easy to make! I made some for T's room and she loves staring up at them. Check them out HERE. So a couple weeks ago my sis asked if I could make some for her daughters birthday party. She wanted to use them for decor for the party, then hang them in her room after. They turned out great! For an easy step by step tutorial, check out this HOW TO. SUPER EASY! Use them for parties, decor, or just fun!

The Birthday Girl herself!

T had lots of fun and was easily entertained

she got mad when we said no driving til she was 16

FREEBIES!!

2011-06-04T13:10:00.003-06:00

Who doesn't love free stuff? Seriously, right? Okay so my friend JULIE is back at it again, giving away free hair care product! Mainly because she is AWESOME like that? Oh, so you say you don't know her? Not a problem, just follow her blog and leave a comment for a chance to win some FUN stuff! By the way, I won a giveaway a little over a month ago from her, which introduced me to Redken, like my new FAVORITE product! What are you waiting for? Give it a shot!!

Rope Bracelet

2011-06-03T21:09:00.003-06:00

So to say I'm a little addicted to craft blogs would be like the biggest understatement ever!! I wish so badly I had more time on my hands to create all of these awesome ideas I find. I had to share this cute rope bracelet from Sew.Craft.Create Go over and check out the tutorial. Doesn't look to hard. I'm totally diggin the outcome!

Baby Gift Idea

2011-05-31T15:20:00.005-06:00

With 'I am a child of God' being one of Tay's FAVORITE songs, I love having this cute wall art hanging above her bed. My awesome sister found the idea and made it for me! I absolutely love it. So simple, yet so beautiful!

When a friend of mine had a little boy, I copied the idea. I color cordinated the text to match the nursery, and VOILA!! Just thought I would share it with you. It sure does make a very nice and simple baby gift!

Like a weed

2011-05-19T06:01:00.001-06:00

Little lady isn't so little anymore. Where does the time go?

8 months old

The secret sauce AND my new weakness

2011-05-18T17:42:00.007-06:00

I'm sharing with you today TWO of my new BFF'S! First off, Yoshida's. Like candy in your mouth. My husband actually bought this, he had been wanting to try it for a long time. I've experimented making my own teriyaki sauce multiple times, but NOTHING compares to THIS! (and you can get a big container of it at Costco for only $7)

For dinner tonight we had a teriyaki chicken bowl. So easy and absolutely d-lish! We cooked the chicken on the stove, and the last few minutes added a little Yoshida's. Added some veggies and rice, and more SAUCE, and just like that... dinner is served. Within a matter of minutes! Great if your on the go, or pressed for time!

I really think he could probably swig it just like this:

AND.... I saved the BEST for last. If you like Oreos, you're going to LOVE this. If you love Mint chocolate chip, your going to LOVE it even more!! Picked these babies up at the store (while shopping on an empty stomach of course- I really gotta quit doing that), and I think I may just end up purchasing them with every grocery trip from here on out. OMG! I can't even explain to you in words how unimaginably delicious they are! So just do me a favor, and go buy yourself a package!

Takin my recommendations into action? Well if not, you should. I would never lead you astray! Lemme know if you like em!

Daddy's got style

2011-05-17T12:56:00.001-06:00

Mommy had to take call this weekend. While at work, I received this picture message as Daddy's heading out the door to church! Daddy did good!

Block name

2011-05-16T18:24:00.003-06:00

Whipped up this darling gift for a friend of mine and her beautiful new baby girl! I'm very pleased with how it turned out! Hope you like it Ash!!

I love making these, if you can't tell... I've made a few. They make GREAT gifts!

New Toy for Momma

2011-05-14T18:13:00.004-06:00

WARNING: The following product may change your life if purchased. It has a tendency to make house cleaning enjoyable. Please use with caution.

Yup, thats right! Look what Momma got for Mothers Day (with the help of a few subtle hints)! Our whole main level is hard wood floors, so this baby works wonders! Let me tell you a few things about my new BFF:

It makes me look forward to cleaning.

I might get carried away when using it (especially if there is music on).

My husband and I may or may not argue over who gets to use it.

It's so easy and simple to use.

Absolutely no chemicals make it super safe for kiddos and pets.

The hot steam sanitizes the floor and dries instantly. (no waiting to walk on the floor).

If I could buy one for all my family and friends, I would.

Do I reccommend you buy one? YOU BETCHA! Worth EVERY dollar!

Gon done got him an edjukation

2011-05-09T20:05:00.003-06:00

Yup... thats right. It's official. My husband is done with school, and I'm so so SO proud of him. All of his hard work has paid off!! He graduated this weekend with his MASTERS! Go baby go! I remember thinking when we got married "YES! He's done with college, I don't have to work my life away to put him through any more schooling!" And then one day he approaches me with the thought,

"Um, Rye, I think I wanna get my masters." ....................Pause................. 'gulp' okay.

I thought it would be a long 2 1/2 years, but before I knew it, he was done! So lets hear a Hallelujah?

CONGRATS BABY! Mommy and T baby are SO PROUD!

A reason to Celebrate

2011-05-08T21:54:00.004-06:00

Just wanted to wish you all a VERY HAPPY MOTHERS DAY! Hope you had a GREAT day!I know I did! I got spoiled with breakfast, help around the house, and a little something I've been wanting REAL bad. (I'll post about it soon)

This year Mothers Day has a new meaning, and I'm so very grateful for the opportunity to be able to celebrate it! I love my baby T so so much and being her mother has been the greatest blessing in my life. I've learned a lot over the past 8 months, and I've come to realize this is just the beginning. I'm still an amateur. But with these lessons I've come to learn, I owe it all to my very own mother. From the late night/early morning phone calls, to the questions, and 'How-To's', I couldn't have done it without her!

The older I get, the more I realize why she did the things she did for me! I hope to someday be as great of a Mother as mine was to me! So on this day, I have MUCH to be thankful for, and to celebrate. From one Mother to another..... Happy Mothers Day!

T's first vacation

2011-05-02T16:30:00.002-06:00

I had been looking forward to this nice little weekend get-a-way for quite some time, so I was relieved when this past Friday rolled around, plus it was T's first trip so I was excited for her! Daddy had a tournament in St. George, so we after work Friday we headed down! Gma and Gpa Davis came with us, we got a nice hotel suite and played when we got there Friday night. Saturday and Sunday was spent all day at the ball park. This was T's first real exposure to sunlight, so in case you can't tell I was a little protective. Unfortunately she has her mothers pale, almost translucent skin. Poor kid. All in all, she had a fun time!

Male magnet already, whatsoever will I do?

Playin with daddy's mit

Daddy's girl

So this is a little boy-ish. What ev. She has to represent!

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T20:15:00.001-06:00

Had to get a cute pic with her in her cute Easter Dress. Happy Easter all!!

pssst...... over here

2011-04-23T08:25:00.003-06:00

I'm gonna let you in on a little secret. If any of you are like me, and carry THIS:

with you whenever you go shopping. (Or if your just looking to save a little dough) I just found out that Wal Mart recently started coupon doubling on Tuesdays! What exactly does this mean? For EVERY coupon under $1.00 you have, they will double for you! Have a .75 cent off coupon for Colgate toothpaste (which are almost always in the Sunday coupons) They'll double it for a whopping $1.50 off each tube of toothpaste. Have multiple coupons? Then HELLO? STOCK UP!! Just be sure to tell your cashier ahead of time you have coupons, and set each coupon on top of the item, other wise it will take FOREVER!

Just thought I'd share with you! HAPPY COUPONING!!

P.S. I know a lot of people aren't huge fans of Wal Mart, but I am. They really do have cheap things. For example, I went there last Tuesday and was looking for some new Body Wash. I use NIVEA, well its $3.00 @ Walmart, and in this Sunday's paper they had a $3.00 off coupon. It doesn't matter what math you took in college, it doesn't take much to figure out that well, thats FREE!! I had 3 coupons too, so if you ask me 3 bottles of body wash for FREE is flippin good deal!

Play Time

2011-04-22T18:42:00.002-06:00

Somebody paid a visit to the local playground this week and REALLY enjoyed it. She even stayed sitting the whole way down the slide!

Just had to brag

2011-04-17T20:19:00.001-06:00

Guess who won that awesome giveaway for the free Redken shampoo and conditioner I mentioned in my previous post? Oh that would be ME! Thats right. I swear I never win anything, but I changed that! THANKS JULIE!!

Check her out...

2011-04-16T10:09:00.005-06:00

So my friend Julie, over at Bold Fringe just had a giveaway for some some Redken hair products. Unfortunately I couldn't share it with you in time, but you should all follow her and her awesome advice! She is a hair stylist thats sharing all her secrets with us! Tips, tricks, and hints from hair fashion, do's and don'ts, and product secrets! And maybe, just MAYBE she'll have another giveaway!!

Two of my most FAVE products that I can't live without are these beauties:

Big Sexy's products! I love their Root Pump Plus. Applied to a slightly damp head at the roots, round brush dry and VOILA, absolutely amazing volume! The others is their Smooth and Seal. I apply it while styling my dried hair. A very light weight spray gives a glistening shine and helps those frizzy flyaways we all just can't stand to deal with.

And thats my two cents. Check out Julie's blog for more great advice!

Eggs and Bright Colors

2011-04-12T18:56:00.002-06:00

Someone around here got their very FIRST Easter basket and eggs, and is a little excited bout it!

Look what came in the mail!

2011-04-09T09:10:00.002-06:00

I finally received my awesome hand stamped necklace from SIMPLY BEEN. And I love it! I have to tell you about the sweet deal I got on it too. Thanks to my awesome sister who introduced me to GroopDealz, I found this sweet hook up on their 'deal of the day' It was pay $20 for $40 worth of jewelry at Simply been. So with tax and S&H I paid only $28 for $48 worth of jewelry!! LOVE IT!

You can dream though right?

2011-04-06T18:29:00.002-06:00

Sure my craft room won't ever look like this organized, its a CRAFT room, it's suppose to be messy....

And sure my laundry room won't EVER look this clean...

And of course, I could probably never pull off an all white kitchen because, well let's be honest, it would be stained in dirt and children's handprints....

But a girl can wish right? I love, love, LOVE THIS blog. I could day dream all day....

False Advertising

2011-03-29T19:32:00.004-06:00

Warning: This is a venting session, and includes harsh feelings. If you get bored, my apology. Don't say I didn't warn you.

Dear Smiths Grocery Store,

I use to think you were the BOMB!

But now I know I'm definitely wrong.

You use to have the best sales,

but to all my friends I now will tell.

About how ya tricked me and got me in the door,

from now on I'll shop there no more!

Signed,

A not so happy EX customer

I'm irritated, really irritated. Belligerent would be a wise word choice! I would normally consider myself a loyal customer to Smiths. I thought they had great deals and sales, so I wold go out of my way to make it there when these events were going on. So today I head over there simply for bottled water and gatorade (Braden's softball is starting up, so i wanted to stock up) Well their ad says their gatorade is .39 and their bottled water is $2.79 (both great deals, right?) IF YOU PURCHASE 10 of the mix and match items. (which they both were) So i did my math like usual, had it all written out and was excited about the expected outcome. PLUS on top of the deals, if you purchased 10 items, you get an "additional $5 off at the register". BULL CRAP! The gatorade rang up .89 and the H2O was $3.29. Yeah... WHAT? My total was way more than expected, and when I questioned them, their excuse was: "oh the $5 is like a rebate and so it's like paying .39, but it rings up for .89 and you just get the five bucks off at the end of your transaction."

OH okay, so let me get this straight. isn't that called false advertising? Yeah, I'm pretty sure it is. I usually NEVER look too much at my receipt. So I wonder how many other times they've fooled me. Tricky Tricky. Oh and by the way... YOU SUCK!

Hello Maceys, my 'neighborhood grocer' You now have a new customer!!

Daddy's Birthday

2011-03-26T20:10:00.002-06:00

We had a CELEBRATION around our house this past Wednesday. Daddy had his 25th Birthday!! I was luckily able to get off work early, and me and Tay surprised Daddy at work with some balloons and 15 lbs of gummy worms!! (Daddy's favorite) I know, I know, aren't kids suppose to be in love with those? Not adults? Well keep in mind he IS a kid at heart. Braden makes me stop at Winco and buy them in bulk often. So these oughtta keep him busy for a while!

Surprise Surprise!!

2011-03-22T19:16:00.003-06:00

Look who got their ears PIERCED!!

If Tay could talk she'd say; "I've got daddy wrapped around my little finger."

While I'm at it, I oughta share these cute pics of her thoroughly enjoying her nummies! We've come to find her favorites are carrots, and sweet potatoes. Num num!

Look!

2011-03-21T18:50:00.003-06:00

Coming soon

Spring 2011

Gettin my body back!

(or so thats the plan)

Thanks Katelyn for the stroller!!!

6 months

2011-03-18T15:40:00.004-06:00

My dear beautiful baby Tayvree,

You are six months old! I can't believe it. Half a year. REALLY? I don't know where the time has gone. Seems like just yesterday I was on my way to the Hospital, so anxious to meet you. And now you seem SOOO big. You are currently:

- talking as much as a 13 year old teenage girl (only in a language we don't understand)

- sitting all by yourself

- on the verge of teething

- smiling ALL the time

- a total MOMMA'S GIRL

- eating more than just milk (although its been an adjustment for you)

- loving watching tv. You already like Playhouse Disney.

- fascinated by your new play saucer

- giggling on the time. It's the most adorable sound

- wanting so badly to crawl. Any day!

- such a cuddle bug. Mommy loves that!!

-a fan of mommy/daddy singing you 'You are my Sunshine' at bedtime

I just can't believe the rate your growing, your changing everyday so fast. It's really hard on mommy, working full time. I feel like I miss out on so much. I wish so badly I could spend every waking minute with you. Some day. You put the biggest smile on my face and you bring so much joy to your mommy and daddy's life. We don't know what we would do without you. Please continue to be the sweet baby you are. Always remember I love you so much!!

With all my love,

MOM

P.S Tell daddy you want your ears pierced. He won't listen to mommy.

Uh- a little help please?

2011-03-16T17:13:00.003-06:00

Motivation: The activation or energization of goal oriented behavior. The driving force which help, causes us to achieve goals.

Got any? If so, puh-leeeeze send it this-a-way! I so need to get back in the habit of working out. I did so good about 3 months post partum. I was working out every day, feeling great, and then maternity leave ended and WHAM!! I find myself making excuses day in and day out of why I shouldn't. It's just that when I get home from work thats the LAST ting I want to do. I'd rather be with my sweet baby T! Plus I have dinner to make, and whatever housework is left to be done. So... I've still got a few more unwanted LBS to shed, but unfortunate for me, they just wanna hang around and not let go. Don't worry, the feelings are NOT mutual. With Spring/Summer right around the corner, I'm hoping the warmer weather helps me get going, because as of now, my "Get up and go", has apparently got up and went. What the crap??

Any advice or personal motivation you have? I'm keeping an eye out for a jogging stroller, so if you know of any good deals, lemme know! I'd even be willing to get a gently (and I mean oh so gently) used one!

Bling Bling

2011-03-14T17:42:00.002-06:00

I absolutely LOVE jewelry, and working in the OR kinda limits my ability to show off 'ma bling'. I'm limited to small stud like earrings and a small not-too-flashy necklace. Not even a wedding ring!! Well so I originally wanted to buy a "T" pendant necklace that I can always wear (for baby Tay), then I found THIS awesome website and I'm thinking of ordering some sort of neat necklace from here. Anyone know of somewhere else that has unique, nice jewelry where you can engrave what you want?

Just can't get enough

2011-03-09T18:19:00.003-07:00

Mr. Walker and I are OBSESSED!! If you don't catch this show.... You're SO missing out!!!

Cook group and Chicken Marsala. Yum.

2011-03-02T10:24:00.006-07:00

So I originally intended to take but a few months off of hosting my cook group when I had baby T, but due to a lack of motivation (and lots of excuses), It's turned into more than just a 'few months'. But my dinner ideas are running out, and I need more inspiration. So next Tuesday, March 8th, 6:00 pm, at my place we're back in action!! Our theme is 'crock pot favorites'! So I wanted to extend an invitation to you all, if your interested.... COME. It's always fun, and you leave with lots of GREAT new recipes!

Speaking of great recipes. I tried this yummy chicken marsala dish for dinner last night. It was awesome.! I added noodles to the recipe, which made it more of a meal. Give it a try!

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, halved

2 Tbs. flour

2 Tbs. olive oil

2 c. fresh sliced mushrooms (i used more, because i love mushrooms)

2 Tbs. butter

3/4 c. marsala wine, or chicken broth

2 Tbs. minced fresh parsley

1/4 tsp. dried rosemary, crushed

grated parmesan cheese to taste

Flatten chicken to 1/4 in. thick. Place flour in re-sealable plastic bag, add chicken and shake to coat.

In a large skillet over medium heat cook chicken 3-5 minutes each side or until a meat thermometer reads 170 degrees. Remove and keep warm.

In the same skillet saute mushrooms in butter until tender. Add wine, parsley, and rosemary. Bring to a boil and cook until liquid is reduced by half. Serve over chicken, and sprinkle with desired amount of cheese. Enjoy!!

T's new toy

2011-02-27T19:12:00.004-07:00

T went for her first time to IKEA, and can I just say she loved it. Or maybe that was me? Or both of us.... anyway, I've been there multiple times but never really looked much in the children's department. This time, we spent quite a bit of time there. I found this fun little blanket/pad. It was only $20! It's thick and padded so its comfortable to lay or sit on, and it has all these fun little attachments on it. A mirror, squeaky toys, and little bugs. She especially loves the mirror (if you can't tell)

Monogram makeover

2011-02-21T19:20:00.004-07:00

As I previously mentioned a few posts back, I'm going through this obsessive GREEN phase, and I love it. So the other night I whipped this up. SO quick. SO easy. It was originally black but it needed a little 'umph', and now, I love it 10x more! Thanks to my handy dandy mod podge (Oh how I love that product) VOILA!!

I also love the scrapbook paper I used. Since the monogram represents our last name, the trees reminded me of a 'family tree'. Anyways, thought it was pretty cool and symbolic.

Taking a poll....

2011-02-20T20:50:00.001-07:00

How young is TOO young to get your daughters ears pierced?

Starting out young

2011-02-16T18:05:00.002-07:00

We told them this was ok... but if it escalates to anything besides holding hands, there WILL be consequences!

Tate and Tayvree

TORN

2011-02-13T21:08:00.005-07:00

So it's been a while. Scratch that. A LONG while. Things have been super busy lately, and unfortunately it's work that's got me tied up. I've spent the past 3 Thursdays of call pulling 15+ hour shifts. Don't ask how I do it. I don't know. Needless to say, I'm hoping things slow down here.

Last week I got asked by the O.R. director if I would be interested in going to NEW YORK for a few days with one of my co-workers/friend for a little orthopedic convention.

Our conversation went a little like this:

Me: "Um YEAH! Of course! Free flight! Free hotel! Free food! a few nights in New York with a close friend. Are ya kidding me? Sign me up

My boss: "Well I just thought I would check, I mean with your baby and all.... I thought you might have a hard time being away from her."

Oooooooooooooooooh yeah. That's right. I have a child. My heart kind of stopped for a minute. I talked with my husband who encouraged me to still go and reassured me T baby would be just fine. But I don't know how I could be away from her for even just a few days. Heartbreak! I just about fall apart when i work a 15 hour shift and barely see her. This trip would be a little more than 15 hours....

Anyway, I'm waiting to hear back from my boss to find out the exact dates before I make a decision. I have mixed emotions though. I've never been to NY but have always wanted to and I keep thinking this would be such a neat experience, but I'm having a hard time just thinking about leaving my baby.

I heard this quote once "Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body."

For those of you moms, you know exactly how this feels! Any advice out there?

Can't resist....

2011-01-26T17:44:00.003-07:00

Just had to share 2 cute pics from this week of this darling little lady!

Upgrades

2011-01-23T07:24:00.003-07:00

So I'm in the process of slowly making some home decor changes. I'm totally digging the olive green color, so I have decided to accent with it around the house. I have two photo frames that looked like this:

and with the help of a darling print of scrapbook paper and a little Mod Podge (oh I just can't get enough!!) they now look like this:

and hang beautifully on my wall like this:

Missing the housewife life

2011-01-11T18:29:00.004-07:00

Housewife vs. Full time working mom

Well it's officially been a month since I returned back to work after a very relaxing 3 months off. It's been a very hard adjustment, and needless to say, I miss it immensely! I feel like i'm missing out on so much! Although, I won't lie, the paycheck sure is nice! A few things I decided I REALLY miss:

-Dr. Oz, Studio 5 and The Ellen Show

-Mid day naps

-Morning cuddle time with T

-Lounging

-Having dinner ready for my hubby when he walks in the door

-Not having the need to apply make up (oh its a beautiful thing)

It's so tiring to work full time, come home, start dinner from scratch, clean the house, do the laundry, try to spend time with my baby girl (and hubby for that matter), let alone try and accomplish any crafts/projects I want to work on. (hence the lack of blogging). Ugh.

All you stay at home moms, I officially envy you! Be grateful! Oh I can't wait til the hubby graduates! Hallelujah!

p.s. My baby is way cuter than the child in the picture above, ok and that doesn't look too much like me either.

T time

2011-01-02T18:57:00.003-07:00

T was playin around on the bed the other night, and we caught these cute pics. The last is PRICELESS!

Another year come and gone?

2011-01-01T19:02:00.003-07:00

Where did it go? It seems as if it were just a few short months ago that I was blogging about the upcoming 2010 year and all my goals. Geez!! Well looking back at THIS I can happily say that I successfully completed 6 of my 10 goals for this past year. Thats pretty good if you ask me!

New years was fun. We went to dinner with friends and then hung out and played games and may or may not have lit some illegal fireworks. I'll never tell! I still find it so crazy to think its January 1st already. Wow. I do look forward to this upcoming year and all it has in store for us!

-Braden graduates with his masters in May. WAHOO!! I don't know who's more excited... him or me?

-We will be celebrating our 3 year anniversary

-We'll be taking a few road trips for Braden's softball league

-And the most exciting thing, watching my baby T grow up. I look forward to so many fun "firsts" heading our way!

Wishing you a Happy New Year from us all!!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T21:42:00.001-07:00

From this little lady to you!!

T's blessing pics

2010-12-23T12:47:00.002-07:00

TOO cute for words!

Red Lobster ain't got nuthin on me

2010-12-10T16:22:00.006-07:00

So yeah... I really like Red Lobster. I mean, sure they have good sea food, but the REAL reason why I like them so much is their yummy biscuits! And guess what I made to go with my dinner last night? The same biscuits they serve there! Oh you better believe it! D-lish. And so so easy to make!! Give it a whirl!

Cheddar Bay Biscuits

by LettucePray

Biscuits:

2 1/2 cups Bisquick

4 Tbsp cold butter

1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

3/4 cup milk

1/4 tsp garlic powder

Butter Glaze:

3 Tbsp butter

1/2 tsp garlic powder

3/4 tsp dried parsley flakes

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Lightly grease or line one cookie sheet with parchment; set aside.

Combine Bisquick with cold butter in a medium bowl using a pastry cutter (I just used 2 forks). Don't worry about mixing too thoroughly; there will be small chunks of butter in the mix about the size of peas. Add cheddar cheese, milk, and garlic powder. Mix by hand until combined, but don't over mix.

Drop 1/4 cup portions of the dough onto the lightly greased or parchment lined cookie sheet. Bake for 13-15 minutes in preheated oven until the tops of the biscuits begin to turn light brown.

While the biscuits are baking, melt butter is a small bowl in the microwave. Stir in garlic powder and dried parsley flakes. Use a brush to spread the garlic butter over the tops of all the biscuits. Sprinkle a little kosher salt on the freshly coated biscuits. Makes one dozen.

Pure Heartbreak

2010-12-10T10:02:00.006-07:00

Well, the dreaded day is almost here. I remember thinking before I had baby T that I was going to have 3 whole months off and that seemed like soooooo long. I blinked. And now its gone. This is by far the hardest thing I've ever had to do. I've spent every waking minute for the past 3 months with this precious infant, and now i'll be missing out on 8 hours a day. I've cried at least twice a day this past week knowing it's my last week to be with her. And when my work called this morning to verify they'd see me monday... I completely LOST it.

BUT.... when there is a mortgage and lots of bills to pay, and daddy is still is school, mommy doesn't have much of a choice. Luckily my mother in law will be tending Tayvree so I don't have to worry about who she's with, and lets face it, it'll save us lots of money.

I'll miss so many things. It's been so nice these past 12 weeks to be able to sleep in til whenever I want and lay in bed with my little cuddle bug all morning. To lounge around, never having to get ready. To be able to take naps with baby T. To only have to worry about what were having for dinner when daddy gets home. *sigh* I'm in for a BIG change.

I'm sure many more tears will be shed this weekend, and I'm sure I will bawl my whole way to work on Monday. The past 3 months have been the ABSOLUTE BEST!! And I'll miss my beautiful baby every minute of the 8 hours I'm away from her. Pure heartbreak.

Bleggings

2010-12-09T11:07:00.003-07:00

BLEGGINGS. (Baby Leggings) I made that up. I think so at least. A while back I posted about wanting to make these, and I finally learned how. So easy, and so FLIPPIN CUTE! Tayvree is sporting my first ones I made here...

And she's also giving the bird in this pic. Woops. Just noticed that. She really IS a sweetheart, disregard the gesture.

Love this pattern!!

Keeps em cozy warm, doesn't she look happy?

Jewelry Decor

2010-12-07T21:47:00.003-07:00

Found this BEAUTY at D.I. Can I just say how much I love this store, and how it's probably not good that I live right by it and have an unhealthy habit of visiting it frequently? I do. I recently found this GEM. Unfortunately I always tend to forget to take 'before' pictures, but imagine this is white, all scuffed up with stains on it. I cleaned it up, painted it, and added a little FLAIR to it (nothing scrapbook paper and mod-podge can't fix), and TA-DA!! Makes for a wonderful jewelry holder. Who knows what it was before? And the best part.... guess how much I paid for it? Scroll down....

Chicken Braid

2010-12-04T16:49:00.003-07:00

Oh how yummy!! I just kind of made this up as I went along, you really could put just about ANYTHING you like in the middle of this braid. Last year I made some with a cream cheese and jam mix. D-lish. This turned out great too!

Chicken Braid

(use your favorite homemade bread recipe)

-2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded

- 1 small can mushrooms

- 1/2 onion, diced

-1 can cream of chicken soup

-cheese (however much you want)

Combine all ingredients in small mixing bowl.

When dough is ready roll out and slice 1" strips down each side

Fill the middle of dough with your chicken mixture and top with extra cheese.

Start at one end, fold the end up then braid all the strips.

Let raise for about 30 min. (Or whatever dough recipe your using instructs)

Bake according to dough directions. Ta da! Yummy dinner is complete!

(Yeah, I was a little too anxious and cut into it before taking a picture)

Weekly Randoms

2010-12-03T11:24:00.002-07:00

I have taken a few funny/cute photos this week of Tay that I wanted to share Here we go:

Laying in bed with me this morning. How can this be comfortable. Those odd little flexible baby bodies

At the Dr's office. Right before receiving her shots. She may or may not have been this happy after getting them.

T baby has been salivating a little TOO much this week, so in order to keep her clothes dry she has had to wear bibs

She's a great help in the kitchen. She sat in her bumbo for an hour and a half while mommy made cookies and homemade bread.

5, 6, 7, 8...

2010-11-30T20:43:00.002-07:00

Started this yesterday. Needless to say, I'm overly excited about it. It's so much fun, and I actually look forward to working out. It's a party!! I have 10 lbs. to loose from the pregnancy and I'm thinking it shouldn't take long with this sweet work out. If you haven't tried it yet, I HIGHLY recommend it!

Sisters

2010-11-29T17:37:00.002-07:00

I was lucky enough to spend this Holiday weekend with my whole family. Not too often do all of my sisters get together. We've tried to get my sis Amy to move to Utah, but she won't give in. Dang. Maybe someday.... Anyway, this weekend was so fun to be together, shop, and spend quality time. If only it happened more often!

Arg Matey!

2010-11-28T17:45:00.005-07:00

Have ye ev'r bin to thee Pirate Island?

Well it was a fun little place for kids. And grown ups who think they're kids!

My nephew decided this is where he wanted to party for his b-day.

And so we did. Lots of fun games for the kids, similar to Chuck-E-Cheese, but 10x classier. Since my only sister who lives out of state was able to come down for the Holiday weekend, ALL the cousins (my nieces and nephews) were able to play together, besides Tay. She slept through it all. Go figure!

4 reasons

2010-11-17T16:06:00.004-07:00

4 reasons why I could stay in bed all day with this cute little lady...

Her sweet baby blue eyes that stare at me telling me she loves me and needs me

Those perfect little lips and the cute noises they make

Those skinny yet oh so strong little fingers that wrap around mine

Her adorable little toes that I could just tickle and kiss for hours

Amazing offer

2010-11-15T09:52:00.003-07:00

It's that time of the year for wonderful family portraits. And why not a family video??

The guys over at POINTE DIGITAL are offering a Free give away. A $600 value. That's crazy!! These guys did my wedding video, and what a phenomenal job they did. You can enter up to 3 times and a random winner will be chosen. You have till the 18th of this month. check out their BLOG for more information!!

HERE is a link to our video (for proof!)

Friday fun project

2010-11-12T15:38:00.003-07:00

Unfortunately I forgot to take a picture of this before. But you can imagine. It was just plain black. I bought it about 3 years at a craft show and it went well with all my decor. However, I had it in our spare bedroom, and once we turned our spare into a baby's room, it just didn't go. So... today I painted it and decorated it to match baby T's room, and needless to say, I'm VERY pleased with the way it turned out!

From a concerned mother

2010-11-10T13:18:00.001-07:00

Dear T baby-

Please stop growing up so fast. Mommy wants to cherish these moments just a little while longer. I love you.

Love, Mom

Shower Gift

2010-11-09T10:12:00.003-07:00

This past weekend my friend Anne had her baby shower. I'm so so happy and excited for her. She had been trying for a little one for a LONG time, and he's finally almost here. She told me she was going with a country style theme for the nursery' browns, tans, greens.... So I thought I would make a little decor to personalize his space. I did the same for my little one, but here's how it turned out.

I know your thinking "Um, Ryanne, that's not how you spell 'Wyatt'. It's how they are spelling it, so yes, I DO know what I'm doing!

Funny photo of the day

2010-11-05T11:39:00.002-06:00

Remi LOVES car rides. Especially when he gets the privilege to hang out the window. If he could tell you, he'd say it was his FAVORITE! How stinkin cute is he? We went on a drive up the Alpine Loop awhile back and I'm sure if he could ask to do it again he would!

A slow work in progress

2010-11-04T09:25:00.004-06:00

Remember THIS? Well guess what I learned to do last night? Yup, thats right, crochet!!! Just thought you'd like to know!

Proof it happened

2010-11-01T17:18:00.005-06:00

Baby T's 1st Halloween

Unfortunately she was too small for any costumes,

so this is all I could find that would fit her!

Shannon and I

Our Halloween dinner

The guys

The ladies

Anchorman 2: betcha didn't see that one. They made a baby!

Mr. Burgandy and Ms. Corningstone themselves

Baby Couture

2010-10-28T11:59:00.004-06:00

My mind is RACING with all these fun ideas I want to give a try. My sister found an easy online tutorial on turning knee high socks into baby leg warmers. So Stylish! How cute are they? Insert comment here ________ . I know!! I think so too!

Although my little baby girl still has a bit of 'chunking up' to do before these would even stay on her little chicken legs, I think I'll get a head start on them anyway. I've heard a few recommendations of where to find the socks for a reasonable price, however if you happen to see any or know of anywhere that has cute ones, lemme know. THANKS!!

Call it an addiction

2010-10-27T16:50:00.006-06:00

I can't seem to stop myself from pushing the "next" button on the ETSY website. So many cute items, it really is addicting. Infact, I highly recommend you NOT cllicking on the above link and visiting the website. It becomes an obsession. So I've fallen in love with these adorable crochet hats, but paying $32 for them, um yah... that I'm not too fond of. Ya kiddin me?? I'll just make them myself. Oh WAIT, that poses a problem. I CAN'T CROCHET!! Woops! But no worries. I'll learn. Here are my future projects I'm determined to complete!!!

I already know Baby T would look B-E-A-UTIFUL in them.

Rosettes and Button Flowers

2010-10-27T10:50:00.003-06:00

So since I have this ridiculously cute child, and she IS a girl, accessories are a MUST! I've been busy lately making fun little flowers to add to her headbands to match just about every outfit. You can find these for sale at boutiques anywhere from $2.50-$5.00, but you can make them yourself for MUCH less. Oh and did I mention they're super easy?? No? oh.... well, they're SUPER easy!!

-Just getting started-

-My little model-

uh-oh

2010-10-25T20:11:00.000-06:00

It's official. She has a boyfriend. Oh boy. What am I in for?

Tate and Tayvree

You better believe it!!

2010-10-21T18:11:00.002-06:00

As you know... Halloween is next week.

Party at our friends house....

COSTUME party at our friends house...

Mr. Walker and I will be going as...

For real. Pictures to come.

Splish Splash

2010-10-20T12:13:00.002-06:00

Baby T at 2 weeks, after her umbilical cord fell off and she could FINALLY have a real bath. She definitely wasn't a fan of sponge baths. But boy OH boy does she-a-love her baths! Especially the washing of the hair. What a cutie!!