Griffin ... Our Sweet Little Artist

This morning Griffin and I sat down to do his first art project


He wanted to draw something really pretty


mmmmmmm .... let me think about what I want to draw


Taaaa daaaa .... my completed project!


This is Griffin's first masterpiece ...


Do you like it??????

My Mother-In-Law ... Bett

I am very fortunate to have the best mother-in-law in the world.

I was on the floor playing with Griffin a little while ago and a strong sense of love for her just overwhelmed me. I think that may be God's way of reminding me how fortunate I am ... and I want to let everyone know how wonderful, kind, sweet, loyal and amazing she is.

This is a picture of Bett, Griffin & me taken at Thanksgiving 2005



You know ... I really do think of Bett as my "Mom". My mother died when I was very young and I really was fortunate to have a sister that was there for me. I was 8 when our mother died and my sister, Joy was 16. Can you imagine becoming the mother figured of a child when you are only a 16 year old child yourself? (I Love You Joy!) ... anyway ... back to Bett.

Bett has been there for me through so much ... I can't even imagine trying to list all of the things she has done for me and helped me through ... that would be a never-ending list.

I would like to share some of my very favorite things about Bett:

She is an amazing cook ... her green beans taste like dessert

When she comes to visit us, she goes by our favorite Florida BBQ restaurant (Peebles) ... buys pulled pork ... freezes it ... and brings it to us in her suitcase

She recently discovered garage sales and thrift stores. I love that she calls me when she finds a bargain ... say for instance ... an Aigner purse for $2.00!

She goes out of her way to do kind things for other people ... all the time

She is blunt & direct ... but always with a loving heart

She keeps a small "Brag Book" with Griffin's pictures in her purse ... so she can share his pictures with friends and folks she happens upon

She is creative and imaginative

She is beautiful ... on the inside and out

She organizes a huge Thanksgiving get-together every year ... practically all of Central Florida is there!

When we visit her in Florida, she always asks for our grocery shopping list so she can be sure we have the things we want/need while we are there

She keeps a Snickers stash ... for when we really need one ... whooops ... that was our little secret!

She sends us care packages in the mail ... there's always something for everyone, including our dog Wyatt

She really cares about people, and want to see them happy

I know how fortunate I am to have Bett for a mother-in-law ... and I'm even more fortunate to be able to call her "Mom".

Random Thoughts For Today

- I've been up since 3:45 a.m.

- Griffin had pediatrician appt. today ... he has strep throat

- Went to the scrapbook store today ... found lots of fun stuff

- Griffin & I shared a nice chicken burrito today at lunch

- Griffin is currently napping (4:00 pm, and I can't make myself nap

- My son looks like an angel when he's sleeping

- Wyatt (our dog) has cut his foot and he's hobbling around

- I'm sleepy ...

The Birds ...

The birds woke me up this morning at 5:20. It really was a joy waking up to the birds singing outside ... but do they really have to start so early? I absolutely could not go back to sleep, so I decided to get up and start my day. I do try to wake up before Griffin does anyway (he's an early riser) ... but really, I would have like to sleep in a little bit longer.

I thought I would share a few new items I've created recently. The Creative Bug has definately paid me a visit ... I'm having alot of fun making Tear Bears.

Thank God For Watermelon Summers

Thank God for watermelon summers ...

That's always been one of my very favorite sayings. With that in mind, I'd like to share a little something I created last night while my husband was watching Master & Commander.

I Wore Gold Hoop Earrings

Last night I wore my huge gold hoop earrings. It's been 15 months since I've worn them. I used to wear them all the time ... that was BEFORE baby. These days I'm lucky to take a shower and comb my hair. But last night ... I was a girl!! I dressed up, wore makeup, fixed my hair ... and wore my huge gold hoop earrings again.

For what you might ask ...

Mike and I went to the Nascar Cup Race last night in Richmond. We had soooooo much fun! I haven't been in a couple of years, but things just worked out and I was able to go. Our dear, sweet neighbors watched Griffin for us. Dean & Cyndi we can not thank you enough for taking care of our little munchkin!

Now on to the race ...

Let me tell you ... there is nothing more patriotic then sitting in a crowd of 110,000 people ... all standing, hands on hearts, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Oh my stars!! I was in tears.

Kevin Harvick (29) led the majority of the race. Dale Jr (8) one of my faves was pretty much in the top 5 the entire night. But, Denny Hamlin (a Richmond native in his first Cup Series Race) was everyone's favorite last night. Not only was it his first Cup Series race, he's a hometown boy and he was injured. We all of course were pulling for him to win. Dale Jr won ... yaaaaa!!! But Denny came in 2nd. We were all soooooooo proud of him.

Although I did thoroughly enjoy the race ... I had more fun people watching.

There were some seriously entertaining folks there last night.

But first ... let me tell you. I smoked 79 cigarettes last night. Get this ... I'm not even a smoker. But the four men in front of me smoked, smoked, drank beer, smoked, smoked, drank beer, drank beer, and smoked some more. Oh my gosh ... I had so much second hand smoke last night I didn't think I was going to make it. But really, I'm fine this morning. Anyway ...

One of the funniest things I saw last night was a man walking up the stairs. He had an ice cream cone in one hand, a beer in the other. I chuckled. Only at a Nascar Race would you see such a site.

It was so nice having a date with my husband last night. I will once again retire my huge gold hoop earrings to the jewelry box ... until I'm able to be a girl again.

Family Time ...

One of my very favorite things to do as a family is to go for a walk.

There's a little creek that runs through our neighborhood and we often take a walk down to the creek as a family. It's really alot of fun ... not only do we get to spend time as a family, Griffin gets to practice his walking (and running!). And it's also something Wyatt can do with us. Usually we run into neighbors and we can stop and chat with them ... which I love!

Virginia is absolutely gorgeous this time of year. Everything is turning green, the trees are blooming flowers, wild flowers are growing. The birds are singing, the bunnies are hopping about, and we catch an occassional glimpse of deer ... it's just so beautiful!

This is one of my all time favorite pictures of Mike, Griffin & Wyatt.



Daddy, Griffin & Wyatt taking a walk - Thursday - May 4th


Oh .... and I forgot ... we run upon the occassional SNAKE as well

Griffin & His Shadow

Griffin has discovered his shadow.

Honestly ... it was one of the cutest things I've ever seen him do. We were sitting on the floor last night playing and he started touching the floor around him. At first I couldn't figure out what he was doing ... but then I noticed, he was trying to touch his shadow. I then showed him how his shadow moves when he does. At that point I believe he understood a little better because he started moving around watching his shadow move.

You know ... being with your child when they discover something new is one of God's gifts.

Also ... I wanted to share a little something I created last night. I had an INSANE amount of fun creating this little paper piecing. My husband actually helped me place the pieces ... I'm sure he got tired of me saying ... "Honey, do you like the star on the hat" ... "Honey, should I put all three toys on it" ... "Honey, do you like the stars around the sides" ... anyway ... I must say ... he was a very GOOD sport about it.

So here it is .... TAAAAAAAAAAAA DAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH ... created by the Glave Family!

Life Is Good

Life is really good.

My husband is back home and life is back to "normal".

Yesterday was such a wonderful day.

My husband was "working" at home (after working out of town for 6 months)and things just feel right.

I don't know what is it, but when Mike is home I'm so inspired to work.

I get so much accomplished when he's home.

Yesterday I had help with Griffin ... just having someone else get down on the floor and play with him, or even just to change a diaper ... relief!

And it was nice adding extra coffee in the coffee maker ... and making more iced tea ... and actually sitting down and eating lunch ... and cooking dinner for us!

Life is back to normal.

Life is really good.

Project: Daddy's Finally Home!

Whew ... let me tell you ... the past six months have been some of the most difficult time in my life. I've shared this with very few people, but now that it's "over" ... I feel like I can.

For the past six months my husband has been working on a project for a major tire company out of town. Monday through Friday he was away from home, he would then come home on the weekend.

This project started in November 2005 and it just ended yesterday April 28, 2006. Griffin was 9 months old when it began and now he's almost 15 months old. It honestly feels like a lifetime ago. It was very hard being a "single" parent during the week. I love my son with all of my heart ... but sometimes it's nice to have help.

I missed my husband and Griffin missed his Daddy. I know my husband missed us as well. We are all soooooo happy that Daddy's finally home for good!

The (Dreaded) Middle Name

Never thought I would do it ... but it happened today.

Griffin was misbehaving during storytime at the library and I said those dreaded words ...

Grif-fin Mi-chael ... Stop It!

I don't know how it happened ... it just did.

It's something I never thought I would do ... that's what "other" parents do ... not me. Ha! Yes ... I'm officially a parent ... I used the dreaded middle name when disciplining my child. Did it make a difference? Don't think so ...

Why do we think it will? Griffin ... Stop It! ... that just didn't seem like enough ... so there it was Grif-fin Mi-chael ... Stop It!

Anyway ... he stopped what he was doing and we moved on.

3 Boys At The Park

Last night at 5:30 my neighbor and I decided it would be a great time to take the boys to the park. It was cooler outside and the sun was going down.


Mommy & Griffin arriving at the park ... G in a hurry to get there!



All three boys are ready to play!



Sharing the sand box toys ... such fun!



The big boys showing G how to do it right!



Griffin gets in on the scoop action!



Griffin & Mommy hanging out by the boardwalk!

Griffin's First Time With The Sitter

Today I had a doctor's appointment, so I asked my neighbor Carol if she would mind watching Griffin while I went. I was very proud of myself. I only called home once to check on them. I was not nervous at all leaving Griffin with Carol. She has many children & grandchildren and she knew what she was doing. When I came home she told me that Griffin was a very sweet, smart, happy boy. Boy ... did that make this mommy proud!

This is something I made last night. I am allowing myself to make one new item each day. It keeps the creative juices flowing while I finish up all the custom orders.



If you are interested in purchasing it, click on the "My Ebay Store" Link to the left.

Sense of accomplishment

I'm feeling a small sense of accomplishment right now.

I managed to complete 4 Scrapbooking Orders today.

Four down ... approximately 70 to go!

Woo Hoo ... I'm on a roll!

Spring!

Another paper piecing available in my Ebay Store!

You can find the link to my Ebay Store to the right under my photo

Grier & Suri

Isn't it ironic that Brooke Shields and Tom Cruise's baby girls were born on the same day, in the same hospital, on the same floor?

Life has a way of balancing itself out ...

Welcome to the world Grier & Suri ...

Finally ... something new.

Click Here For More Info On My Princess Bear Paper Piecing

Pink

Pink ... who would have thought it?

She's the one to open dialogue to encourage girls to be themselves and not follow the crowd.

I commend her for being bold enough to do this.

In a world where celebrity seems to get more "important" each day ...

It's refreshing to see a celebrity with something important to say.

Although I do not have a daughter, I do have nieces and I hope they will be themselves.

I feel it's important to be yourself ... not to conform to peer pressure.

Thank you Pink.

What I Know For Sure

- I love my husband
- I love our son
- I love our dog
- I love our extended family & friends
- I love when the sun shines
- I prefer spring to winter
- I am strong
- I know friendships are important
- I know Griffin's smile will brighten anyone's day
- I love life

Easter Sunday 2006

Easter was such a great day at our house!

The Easter Bunny visited and left a fun Easter Basket and ride on airplane for Griffin. Then we hunted Easter Eggs and spent the day together as a family.

I even cooked a good 'ole southern meal ... ham, field peas with snaps, fried okra, fried corn, mashed potatos and biscuits ... yum!

It was so nice to be able to spend Easter together as a family.


Oh boy ... look what the Easter Bunny left for Griffin!


Daddy putting together G's ride on airplane


Daddy & Wyatt hiding the Easter Eggs


Daddy helping Griffin find Easter Eggs


Oh Boy ... look at all of these Easter Eggs!

Our Neighbors ... Carol & Warren

Our Neighbors Carol & Warren are back from Florida. They winter there and come home each spring.

Griffin and I were playing on the front porch yesterday afternoon and we saw their familiar white van with the American flag sticker on the side going down the road.

Wow ... what a site for sore eyes.

I love it when they come home.

Our neighborhood seems to come alive when they are here. They are both very active and we see them quite often taking their everyday walks. It's just so nice to see them.

Welcome home Carol & Warren ... we've missed you!

What To Do ???

What To Do ??? What To Do ??? What To Do???

I have to get caught up on my scrapbooking orders ... I just have to.

How am I going to do this? When will I have the time?

I pray every night for God to give me the time, guidance and patience to get caught up ... maybe I'm praying in the wrong way.

I've decided to temporarily close down the "Custom Paper Piecing" part of my website.

I will get caught up ... I know I will.

I get so down when I know customers are waiting on me to send their orders out. I just wish I was lightning fast and could get tons and tons done each day. Maybe I should stop being such a perfectionist. But then ... if I didn't complete each item with love and care it wouldn't be the same.

All I can do is try my best ... and that's what I'm going to do.

Easter Egg Hunt 2006

Griffin attended his first Easter Egg Hunt today ... it was such fun!

He ran around picking up eggs (didn't quite make them in the basket though)

It was a joy to watch him having such a good time.

Man Of My Dreams

I started dating the man of my dreams in April 1985.

Mike and I were high school sweethearts and we've been together ever since.

This is a photo of us taken at our Prom held at Disney World in 1985.

Don't we look like babies?

We just celebrated our 21 year anniversary of "being together".

We also just celebrated our 11 year wedding anniversary.

I'm a very lucky girl to have to have such a wonderful, caring, unbelievably sweet husband.

Real Life Begins Again

Real life begins again ...

Vacation is over and it's back to work. I'm actually looking forward to getting back to work. I have a refreshed outlook and I'm excited about it. I'm hoping to get all of my orders completed quickly and get some new things created. Creating is the best part of my job. I've had some ideas, however no time to actually create them. I will though ... very soon.

We had to take G to the pediatrician yesterday. He was sick our entire vacation. Runny, gooey nose and a cough. Our brother-in-law is a pharmacist and he recommended Dimetapp DM for Children. We could definately see a difference after giving that to him. He's been sick more than a week, so we decided to take him to the doctor yesterday. He's got an ear infection and sinus infection. He's quite the little trooper. The doctor prescribed an antibiotic, so hopefully that will fight the infection and our little one will be all well soon.

Mike went back to work today too. It was so nice having him all to ourselves for more than a week. He was so helpful with Griffin while we were away. Gosh, I love my husband.

I've teased everyone that Griffin left Virginia a baby and came back from Florida a boy. He discovered "freedom" while staying at Grandma's. He was allowed to run around pretty much wherever he wanted. Here at home he's pretty much allowed only in two rooms. He's having to adjust to "real life" too. He's quite mobile these days ... and boy does he have the bruises/scratches to prove it. Mike keeps reminding me he's a boy ... and he will be scratched and bruised. It's hard for a Mommy to see this though.

Well ... everyone ... it's that time ... officially .... I'm back to work!

Florida Vacation 2006

We just returned from our Florida Vacation ...
We are actually from Central Florida
so when we go "home" we enjoy a wonderful vacation as well
We had a great time visiting family & friends and generally just taking it easy
We did have some fun "playtime" as well
Hope you enjoy the photos!

Mike, Grandma Bett & Griffin at Sun 'N Fun Fly-In
Daddy went everyday ... we just went on Friday
Griffin enjoyed watching the planes
It was hot, hot, hot!

Daddy & Griffin "boating" in Grandma's Backyard

Grandma's little pond
A pool big enough for 3 kids and 2 dogs
Such fun!

Swinging under the big mossy oaks
Such the life!

Playing at the water park
Lake Toho - Kissimmee

Griffin just LOVED the water spray
He was darling ... darting back and forth

Daddy & Griffin on the other side of Lake Toho
He had such a good time under the sprays

Daredevil Griffin
There was this bucket that filled with water and then dumped down
He would wait for the water to dump on him
Such a silly boy!

Daddy & Griffin enjoying the water

There's nothing like swinging with your PaPaw & Grandma

Daddy, Mommy & Griffin enjoying getting our feet sandy & wet

We had such a good time in Florida ...
It was so nice to relax and enjoy being together

Cat Tails

It's funny the things that remind us of our youth. As I was driving today when a group of cattails caught my eye. It triggered a memory I did not realize I had. My Mama died when I was 8 (back in 1976) and honestly, I do not remember very much about her. Nor do I have many memories of us being together. But when I saw this group of cattails it reminded me of my Mama and Daddy. My Mama loved cattails and she wanted my Daddy to go down by the railroad tracks to pick her some. She wanted to dry them and display them in this huge wicker vase she had. I can remember being in the car with Mama and Daddy getting out by the railroad tracks to cut some of them for her. Gosh ... it was so nice to be blessed with this memory today.

Oh Happy Day!

Just a quick post today ... it's warm outside ... the sun is shining and we did NOT have to wear jackets when we went out. We are doing a little warm weather happy dance!

G's First McDonald's Hamburger

I was in town today and decided to go through McDonald's drive thru for lunch before heading home. I ordered my meal and a plain hamburger to bring home to Wyatt (our dog). After arriving home I was getting Wyatt's burger out for him and thought ... mmmm ... I wonder if Griffin would like a bit of hamburger. I took off a tiny piece of the bread and gave it to him and he gobbled it right down. I then took a piece of the hamburger and gave it to him and again, he gobbled it down. So ... I cut the burger in half. Wyatt enjoyed his half in one big gulp. I tore the burger into bite sized pieces and placed it on Griffin's tray. He fed himself for the first time. He ate every single teeny tiny little morsel of his hamburger. I was shocked. I think if I would have had more, he would have eaten more. Well, of course he was still hungry, so he had some green beans and apple sauce as well. Do you see the sippy cup there in the picture? Our little guy and I are still going round and round with it. Mike and I have decided ... no more bottle. So, each meal I offer his milk in a sippy cup. He's constantly throwing it on the floor and I just pick it up and place it right back on his tray. He has no problem at all drinking his white grape juice out of his sippy cup ... but when it comes to milk, he wants no part of it. I'm feeling a little unsure of this situation though. Normally he drinks about 20 (or more) ounces of milk each day out of a bottle. But he's really not getting near that much with the sippy cup because he refuses to drink out it. I keep reminding myself that we are the adults and we will win this battle. Wish us luck.

Weekend Adventures

We had a really nice family weekend.

Friday night we went out to a buffet type family style restaurant. Griffin ate his first complete meal without any baby food. He had peas, carrots, mashed potatos, macaroni & cheese, spaghetti and sweet potato. He was so cute. I think he really enjoyed having "real" food.

Saturday we went to our neighbor's house for a birthday party as a family. Harry & Jack turned 2, so we went to help them celebrate. It was really alot of fun. The interesting thing is there were 9 children there and there were 3 sets of twins among them. Cyndi and Dean hosted an excellent, fun filled birthday party. The rest of the day was spent doing things around the house.

Sunday was another family filled day, just spent around the house. I really wanted to drive to Washington, DC because the cherry blossoms are at peak right now, however we didn't get a chance to. Daddy is trying to help Mommy with the sippy cup situation. Griffin will still not drink MILK from a sippy cup. He has no problem drinking juice or water out of the sippy cup ... but milk forget it. So, this is something we still have to work on.

It really was nice spending "family time" this weekend. I hope we can do it more often.

Wash 'N Wear Kinda Girl

I'm a Wash 'N Wear kind girl ... what I mean by that is I normally wash my hair ... and let it dry naturally and do nothing else to it, except maybe blow dry my bangs.

Yep ... that's how I wear my hair.

Well today ... I actually styled my hair with the curling iron. And you know what? Someone noticed!! It made me feel really good. Christina (one of the BEAUTIFUL Moms) came up to me during storytime at the library and asked if I had my hair done. She told me I looked nice. Gosh ... that was a real pick me up. It's nice when you make the effort and someone actually notices.

I have to confess ... since I rarely style my hair anymore I had to dig the curling iron out from way back under the sink. And ... after I styled my hair, I went back upstairs 3 times before I left to make sure I unplugged it ... ridiculous huh?

Anyway ... it was nice getting a compliment today. Thank you Christina for making my day.

Fun Stuff

A friend of mine emailed this to me and I thought I would post my answers here

IF YOU COULD BUILD OR BUY A SECOND HOME, WHERE WOULD IT BE?
Winter Haven, FL

WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE ARTICLE OF CLOTHING?
Dressy shirt ... that does not tuck in over jeans

WHAT WAS THE LAST CD YOU BOUGHT (or received as gift):
It was a CD of children songs like Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, The Wheels on the Bus ... Can not recall the name of the CD

WHAT TIME DO YOU WAKE UP IN THE MORNING?
Between 5:00 and 6:00 every morning. Griffin is an early riser, so I like to be up
before he gets up.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE KITCHEN APPLIANCE?
Bottle Warmer

IF YOU COULD PLAY AN INSTRUMENT, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Drums

WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE COLOR(s)
Yellow, Sage Green (the perfect Trading Spaces Green), Red, Pink

WHICH DO YOU PREFER, SPORTS CAR OR SUV?
Actually ... I prefere a nice van. I drive an SUV ... wish I had a van

FAVORITE CHILDREN'S BOOK?
Any of them ... Griffin is really into listening to stories right now.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SEASON?
Fall ... I just love the colors, the smells, and the crisp air

IF YOU COULD HAVE ONE SUPER POWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
To grant wishes

CAN YOU JUGGLE?
Well kind of ... I try to juggle being a mom, a wife, a business owner

THE ONE PERSON FROM YOUR PAST YOU WISH YOU COULD GO BACK AND TALK TO?
I would choose two. Both my mother and my father.

WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE DAY OF THE WEEK?
Saturday

WHAT'S IN THE TRUNK OF YOUR CAR/TRUCK?
Two strollers ... Griffin's big Eddie Bauer stroller and his smaller umbrella stroller

WHICH DO YOU PREFER, SUSHI OR HAMBURGER?
Hamburger

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FLOWER?
Without a doubt ... sunflowers!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEAL?
Seafood

SOUP OR SALAD?
Salad

MOUTHWASH OR BREATH MINTS?
Both ... mouthwash in the morning and evening ... breath mints throughtout the day

WHEN IS YOUR BIRTHDAY?
September 14th

COMPUTER OR CELL PHONE?
Computer

POPCORN OR PEANUTS?
Popcorn ... at home ... then sprinkle with thinly shredded mozzerella cheese

FAVORITE SODEA
Diet Pepsi and Diet Sierra Mist

CABLE OR SATELLITE TV
Satellite

NATURAL OR FAKE?
Natural is best in most things

VANILLA OR CHOCOLATE
Vanilla

MOVIE THEATER OR BLOCKBUSTER NIGHT?
Blockbuster Night ... with a one year old movie theatres are out of the question.

DO YOU GET ALONG WITH YOUR PARENTS?
Both of my parents have passed. My mom died when I was 8, I was lucky to have my
father until I was in my 30s. My dad was my best friend. I am also very lucky to have Mike's parents. I consider his mom and step-dad MY parents as well as his.

PARTY GOER OR PARTY GIVER?
I would rather give parties

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT(S)
Nell's Country Kitchen, Sonny's BBQ, Peebles BBQ, Crispers, Outback, Red Lobster, Carraba's

BUNGEE JUMP OR SKY DIVE?
Neither ... I'm not much of an extreme sport enthusiast. I would rather be at the park with my son.

My amazing online friends

Over the years I have been honored to make some really good online friends.


These are ladies I have shared some of my deepest feelings, secrets and dreams with.

The funny thing is ... I've never ever met them ... and only one of them have I actually talked to on the telephone.

I have had the priviledge of their friendship for many years ... and I hope to have it for a lifetime. I just wanted to say THANK YOU for being my friend and send a really big cyber hug your way.

Julie - what can I say about Julie? Oh my gosh ... I consider Julie one of my dearest friends. Not only is she supportive, she listens and loves me for me. Although Julie and I have never actually "met" in person ... our hearts met online many years ago. We do talk on the telephone often. We've helped each other through many things ... both wonderful and difficult. She has offered so much wonderful advice since Griffin has arrived ... thank you Julie for being my friend.

Tricia - wow ... she is the real deal. We can go months without emailing or chatting, yet when we do ... we pick right up where we left off. I feel very honored to call Tricia my friend. She is so supportive and loving. Again ... we've never "met" before ... but I just know we will someday! We live less than 8 hours apart.

Cheri - another great online friend. I get these long beautiful, insightful, funny emails from Cheri and I feel awful that I can't share the same beautiful writing skills she does. I so enjoy getting and email from Cheri ... it just brightens my day. She is very encouraging and I love her for that. Again ... we've never "met" in person ... but don't you know if I'm ever in California I'm looking her up!

Heidi - my sweet nurturing friend. I just love Heidi. We haven't had much of a chance to email or chat lately ... but just know you are in my thought and prayers and I love ya girl!

Becki - one of my newest online friends ... although we've "known" each other a few years now, just recently have we emailed each other. She is such a "blooming" delight!

Muriel - another Floridian. We met years ago on a Florida online group. Although we rarely get a chance to email/chat I still hold her dear to my heart.

Deb - my sweet Texas girlfriend. So sweet ... so beautiful ... inside and out. Do you think we will ever get that QVC contract?

Jami - another of my beautiful Texas online friends ... such a sweetheart!

Sue (yes ... it's you "MOM") - so creative, so fun ... and such a wonderful person!

Robin S. - from Florida. Robin is the one that encouraged me to first sell my stuff on Ebay. She's such a sweetheart. I've actually met Robin in real life at the Scrapbook Expo in Orlando. Although we have lost touch a bit ... I consider her a very dear friend.

There are soooo, soooooo many people that I've met online that have made a huge impact on my life. I know there are sooooo many that I haven't named above, but know this ... just because your name isn't listed above, doesn't mean you aren't in my heart. (It just means I'm having "Mommy Brain" and I should be beaten for forgetting you). Send me an email and say ... but what about me and I will be sure to add you. (wink)

I just love that song by Garth Brooks titled "If Tomorrow Never Comes" ... it says it all ... (and by the way ... it was mine and Mike's wedding song.)

If someone touches your life and makes a difference ... let them know.

Spring Snow

We woke up to a light dusting of snow this morning
It's actually very pretty


It looks like God decided to dust everything with powdered sugar
I took these pictures about 6:30 am from my front porch

The Library Toy

Griffin and I go to Mother Goose Story Time at the Library each Thursday. After we sing songs and listen to the story, it's "free play" with the library toys. Someone opens the two big tubs of toys and the kids just go crazy playing. Each week Griffin is drawn to the same toy. It doesn't matter if someone else is playing with it or not ... he plays with it too.

I looked and looked for a similar toy at different stores and I could not find one anywhere. This toy is actually from either the 70's or 80's.

So ... I did the next best thing. I searched for "it" on Ebay ... lol ... and guess what? I found "it"!! (I guess their TV commercials are right ... you can find whatever "it" is on Ebay!)

Anyway ... it's actually called a Busy Box and he love, love, loves it. He plays with it all the time. One of the best things about this toy is it is practically noise free. No lights, no singing ... no batteries required.

Comments ...

I wonder if anyone reads my blog.

It's a fun way to share thoughts, goals, dreams, etc ...

It would be nice to know if anyone is actually reading it.

I think I've had like 3 comments so far.

If you are reading my blog ... please leave a comment so I know you've been here.

You do not have to share your "real" name ... you can post anonymously ...

Take good care ...

Random Thoughts For Sunday

1. Griffin is congested and has been coughing all night ... our sweet baby is sick

2. Pizza Hut Pizza is the BEST!

3. It's March 19th and it's 20 degrees outside ... so unfair!

4. I don't have to wash clothes today ... I finished them all yesterday

5. We just got Tivo and I love it

5. I'm hoping Grey's Anatomy is a new episode tonight ... it's the best show on TV

6. My sweet husband is dropping by the pharmacy to get Griffin some medicine (we are almost out) after his flying lesson so I do not have to go out today

7. The new season of Blow Out begins on Tuesday night ... can't wait!

8. If you want to read a good, funny blog check out Ashley's Cooking School Blog on marthastewart.com

9. I love my family

Good Things

Some very good things that have happened in the past 24 hours

- My husband took Griffin & me out to dinner
- We saw a shooting star on the way home
- I stayed up past 9:30
- I watched Martha's Cooking Class on frying
- After giving Griffin a bath he put his boats away ... for the first time ... no prompting!
- Wyatt and I had "just us" time going for a walk while Daddy watched Griffin

Feeling ...

I've been feeling a bit overwhelmed lately. I have so much work to do and I just can not find the time to get it all done. I hate to say the word ... but honestly ... I'm feeling depressed. If I'm honest with myself, I've been feeling this way since September.

I have to find a way over this hurdle. It's a tough thing to overcome, however I know I will be able to do it.

I have a doctor's appointment in April, so maybe the doctor can offer some insight (and help!) to get over this.

I was very worried I would have post-partum depression after Griffin arrived. I don't think it's PPD ... it does not seem that severe ... however ... I do believe it's important to talk to a doctor about it.

My gut feeling is I'm just overwhelmed. I think it's time to take a step back, regroup, get organized and get to work so I'm happy and my customers are happy.

ON A MUCH BRIGHTER NOTE...

Griffin is walking ... I'm a proud mommy. Now it's time to tackle the dreaded sippy cup.

Being A Parent

Being a parent is hard work.

When you have a "normal" job, you get performance evaluations to let you know how you are doing. You are doing great here, you need improvement here, etc, etc, etc.

Parenthood has no such "instructions" or evaluations.

I often wonder am I the best parent I can be. Does Griffin get the time he needs. Am I doing things "right"?

Most times I'm certain I'm doing the best I can. Other times I feel like I'm not.

Do all parents have these feelings?

Happy Birthday Wyatt

Our dog Wyatt is 11 years old today. He has been the best dog you could ever ask for.

He came into our lives on Mother's Day 1995. He has always been the "baby" of the family, and he pretty much gets whatever he wants.

Since Griffin was born I do not get to spend the time with Wyatt that I once did. I often feel very guilty about this. But Wyatt is still his loyal self, always trying to please us.

He's the King of Indoor Dogs. His favorite spot is right on the couch. He knows he's only allowed to get on the couch if his special covers have been placed down ... well, since he's older now that's pretty much all the time. He does enjoy going for walks and sitting in the shade outside with Griffin and me.

Another favorite thing to do is to go "bye bye" with us. Of course we take him only when we take short trips to town. He so enjoys sitting with his head on the back headrest watching the world pass him bye.

As Wyatt enters his twilight years we plan to spoil him to no end. A few extra treats, a whole hamburger every now and again ... and plenty of "bye bye" trips are in store for our sweet Wyatt.

Happy Birthday Duder Bug ... we love you.

Excited about today

We woke up this morning and it was 47 degrees! We are experiencing a warming trend.

I'm kind of excited about today. It's "Library Day". Griffin and I go to the "Mother Goose Story Time" each Thursday. It's so much fun for him and me. He gets to be around other children and I get to interact with other adults.

After the library we have plans to meet Cyndi and her boys at the park for a picnic. It's supposed to get in the 70's today, so this will be a really nice change.

Speaking of the library ... how cool is it to have a place to borrow a book, read it and take it back. I've never been a member of a library until just recently and I'm loving it! I've read 6 books in the past month. Mind you ... it's what Kelly Ripa would call "beach trash" ... you know like Jackie Collins books. But it's been a great way to read alot of books without having to buy them. So ... if you get a chance, visit you local library and take advantage of the great atmosphere and opportunities they offer. Until next time ...

44

Dana Reeve has passed away. She was only 44 years old. So young and such a sad thing. It makes me realize how young my mother was when she passed away in 1976. She was only 43. She had a long life to live, however that was not her destiny. When you are 8 years old, 43 seems so old. When you are 38 years old, 44 seems so young. We can not take one day, one minute, one second for granted. We all need to live our lives to the fullest. That's my plan ...

What a day!

Griffin is currently in his play yard singing his little heart out. He's 13 months old today. He just layed down on this John Deere blanket a dear friend of ours made him for his birthday. We've had a pretty busy and successful day. Our morning began at 5:45 ... I guess that's why I'm so tired now. After morning playtime & breakfast G went down for a 3 hour nap. I was able to get alot of work done, which was wonderful. After his nap and lunch we went for a walk with our neighbor Cyndi (the very person who made the above mentioned blanket) and her two boys. It's always so nice to be able to get out of the house and enjoy some sunshine. My little goofball is currently jumping up and down on his bag of soft fabric blocks and sing/songy screaming. Gosh ... am I the luckiest girl in the world or what? I get to stay home with our son ... I get to do something I absolutely love for a living (Scrapbooking) ... I am blessed. It's such a priviledge to be able to live this life.

Where Did February Go?

Exactly where did the month of February go? It's as though I blinked my eyes and February just passed right on by. I have so much work to complete and I just don't know how I'm going to get it all done. I'm just going to say a little prayer and ask God to give me the strength (and time!) to get it all done as quickly as possible.

I can not believe G will be 13 months old tomorrow. He's such a little goof ball. He's so cute, funny, charming, witty and down right adorable! How did we get so lucky to have such a sweet son?

He's getting so smart ... he's beginning to really play with his toys and he's walking more and more. Just the other night he took 13 steps straight in a row. Before we know it he's going to be running!

Spring Is Coming

We saw our first robin today. That's a sure sign that spring is actually on the way. Someone needs to tell Mother Nature that though. The outside temperature is currently reading 31 degrees. I can not wait for Griffin to be able to get outside and play. Mike hung a swing up this past week for Griffin. He's been able to enjoy it just a little. Of course he's been bundled up with his winter coat and hat on. It will be so much fun to go outside in SUMMER clothes, barefoot and enjoy the sunshine. Spring ... bring it on!

60 Degree Weather In January

Wow ... we've had some wonderful warm weather the past couple of days. Today it was 60 degrees outside. I was able to take a walk with Wyatt and Griffin ... and it was so nice. I was even able to move Griffin's exersaucer on to the front porch this afternoon and have some "outside" time with him. We so enjoy being outside. I wish there was more to do outside with a one year old. Our local park does not have swings ... that's too bad. I'll have to get Mike to put up a swing for Griffin soon. Unfortunately we are due for some very "normal" winter weather the next couple of weeks. Can't wait until Spring.

Dancing With The Stars

I have to admit ... watching Dancing With The Stars is a guilty pleasure.

I just love that show.

My favorites are Drew & Cheryl, then Stacy and her partner (can't remember his name). But I am a bit torn because I really like Jerry Rice and his partner as well. If any of these three dance couples win, I will be happy, especially if it's Drew & Cheryl.

I feel a little sorry for Ashly. She did really well last season with Joey McEntire. She has held her head high and danced her little heart out this season despite having a dance partner who chooses not to wear Ballroom dance shoes, in every sense of the word.

Can't wait until tomorrow night to see who America decides to send home.

Griffin's Crush

Griffin does some seriously cute things.

Last night he did one of the absolutely cutest things ever.

After dinner and a bath he was pretty sleepy. His Daddy was rocking him and he was asleep in his arms.

Griffin has always been fascinated with the little girl on the Welch's Grape Juice Commercial. The one with long dark hair in side ponytails. Everytime that commercial comes on, he stops what he is doing and watches it. He recognizes her voices.

Well ...

Last night ...

Our son was in a deep sleep in Daddy's arms ...

All of a sudden he jumped up, spun around and started watching tv.

The Welch's Grape Juice commercial was on. After it went off, he settled back into Daddy's arms and fell back to sleep.

Mike and I were laughing so hard.

We could hardly believe our dear son came out of a deep sleep for his "crush".

That's love.

9:45 pm ... Dinner

It's 9:45 pm ... it's a brownie ... 'nuf said ...

Staying At Home

You know ... I enjoy staying home.

I really look forward to the days when I have to go nowhere.

I can just stay home ... work, take care of Griffin, Wyatt and Mike and whatever else needs to be done around the house.

I get soooo much accomplished when I don't go out at all.

So ... here's to staying home as often as possible.

What bugs me about cooking shows

I love watching The Foodnetwork and Martha on TLC.

But you know ... there's something they all do that just bothers me.

Okay ...

So when they are putting the dry ingredients in to mix up, stir up, etc ... they just DUMP them in. Isn't it easier to sprinkle them all around to make it easier to mix up?

Salt ... they just dump it in
Pepper ... they just dump it in
Cinnamon ... they just dump it in

Sprinkle, sprinkle, sprink ... that's my cooking philosophy.

Hunger

This morning I decided to make an early morning run to Walmart. I got G all packed up to go and we headed out. Normally when I do the early morning run to Walmart I always feed G at the McDonald's. He normally eats breakfast at 9:30. Well, I did my regular shopping and then my grocery shopping, checked out and as I was leaving my husband calls me on the phone. We chit chatted and I said, by the way what time is it? Well, it's 9:50. I still have another 30 minutes to drive home. Dilemma.

So, do I feed G his formula and baby food while sitting in the car ... it's 33 degrees outside. Or ... do I just say to heck with it and drive home and hope he's okay. Well, I decided to do the last choice.

Big Mistake!

Our boy was hungry ...

And he let me know about it the entire way home.

I kept talking to him and assuring him we would be home soon. Something tells me an 11 month old does not want to hear reassuring words ... he just wanted food.

But you know ... his crying/screaming really got to me.

It made me think about all of the hungry children in the world. If my son reacts the way he did after only being delayed an hour for food ... I can only imagine how children in other countries that are starving every day feel.

It made me cry.